About 59% of Indian travellers plan more international trips, with Luxembourg and Norway emerging as breakout global destinations, it was revealed recently at the Google Think Travel event. Domestically, travellers are keen to visit Jibhi in Himachal, revealing Indians’ growing appetite for both global exploration and offbeat local escapes.

Travl360 (A Unit of T4 Initiatives) bagged the Most Promising MICE Operator award at the India Travel Awards 2025. The award was presented to Munish Sekhri, MD and Sejal Sekhri, Navigator – MICE Operations, Travl360. Sekhri said, “This is my third award, and it feels amazing to win. I would love to continue working in the hospitality industry, keep growing, and I dedicate this award to the opportunities and the future ahead.”

Speaking at GPS Kochi, Biji Eapen, National President, IAAI, stressed that knowledge, skills, and the right attitude are essential to thrive in the travel trade. He said, “GPS gives you knowledge, suppliers provide skills, but attitude must come from within. With all three, you become an asset to the industry”. He also underlined challenges, such as rising airfares, taxation pressures, and dollar fluctuations, weighing on tourism growth.

Kanokporn Kunnawattana, Minister Counsellor, Thai Embassy, New Delhi, highlighted that Indian weddings are among the fastest-growing segments in Thailand, especially in Bangkok, Phuket, and Pattaya. She said that Thailand is actively engaging Indian influencers and wedding planners to promote the destination, while also focusing on attracting business travellers and investors through projects like the EEC and Southern Land Bridge project.

The Boutique Collection (TBC) is delighted to announce its appointment as the exclusive Sales Representative for three iconic Sri Lankan properties: Water Gardens Sigiriya, Glenross Living, and Blue Water Sri Lanka. This strategic partnership marks a significant step in TBC’s ongoing commitment to delivering exceptional hospitality and luxury living experiences throughout South Asia. Each of the three properties reflects a unique identity rooted in Sri Lankan heritage, wellness, and design excellence. TBC will lead market outreach, trade partnerships, and sales strategies for all three properties, enhancing visibility among discerning travellers and buyers across India and beyond. Ashwin Joseph, Sales & Marketing Director, Union Resorts & Spas, mentioned, At Union Resorts & Spas, each of our properties embodies a unique philosophy and story. Water Garden Sigiriya is more than a resort – it offers an immersive blend of nature, wildlife & history from a perfectly placed central location in the cultural triangle. Glenross Living reflects our vision of conscious living in harmony with nature, while The Blue Water Hotel & Spa stands as a timeless testament to Geoffrey Bawa’s design and Sri Lankan hospitality. The Boutique Collection by Outbound Marketing as our partner, we are eager to deepen our connection with discerning travellers across India who seek serenity and soulful experiences. Their expertise in luxury travel and strong industry relationships will play a pivotal role in strengthening our presence in this market and in reaching the right audience who truly value meaningful escapes. “We are honoured to represent these three exceptional properties and look forward to crafting innovative campaigns that highlight their unique stories while expanding their presence in the luxury travel market,” said Tonia Sehan, Director of Sales, Hotels Outbound …

TezJet Airlines, a leading carrier from Kyrgyzstan, has appointed Aeroprime Group as its Exclusive General Sales Agent (GSA) in India for both passenger and cargo services. With this strategic collaboration, TezJet is set to establish its presence in the Indian market and strengthen connectivity between India and Kyrgyzstan. TezJet will be launching direct flights from Delhi to Bishkek starting December 2025, offering passengers enhanced travel convenience and businesses efficient cargo solutions. Kyrgyzstan, often called the “Switzerland of Central Asia”, is renowned for its breathtaking mountain ranges, pristine lakes, and rich cultural heritage. From the alpine beauty of Issyk-Kul Lake to the vibrant bazaars of Bishkek, the country is a growing favourite among Indian travellers seeking both adventure and cultural exploration. The new direct flights are set to strengthen the connectivity between India and Kyrgyzstan, two countries that share deep cultural, historical, and economic linkages. While India is home to a growing outbound travel market looking for new destinations, Kyrgyzstan offers a unique blend of natural beauty and Central Asian hospitality. On the trade front, the route will facilitate smoother cargo movement, supporting sectors like textiles, pharmaceuticals, machinery, auto ancillaries and agricultural products, thereby boosting commerce between the two nations. Arun Kumar, President & CEO, TezJet, said: “India is one of the most dynamic and growing markets in Asia, and we are delighted to partner with Aeroprime Group to represent us here. With their strong expertise in aviation sales and marketing, we are confident in building a successful presence in India.” Aeroprime Group, headquartered in New Delhi, is a leading aviation services provider with a robust track record in airline representation, sales, customer support, and operations across multiple countries and cities. …

CGH Earth sees domestic tourism outpacing international arrivals. The group expects 20% inbound growth this year, driven by the demand from the UK, the USA, Canada, Australia, and Southeast Asia. “At the same time, short-stay domestic demand from Bangalore, Chennai, and Cochin has surged,” said Michael Dominic, MD, CGH Earth, stressing that the brand’s sustainability practices are value-driven and community-first. “To capture this market, we have intensified social media, PR, print, and influencer-led campaigns to ensure year-round visibility and occupancy.”

India’s Travel & Tourism sector is at a crossroads, according to new WTTC findings. The findings highlight both the opportunities and the urgency as India seeks to balance its tourism-led growth with environmental sustainability. “The sector has shown progress by cutting its carbon intensity from 1.6 to 1.29 kgCO2e per US$ of GDP since 2019,” the report stated. India’s Travel & Tourism sector has delivered $79.6 billion in taxes and creating millions of jobs, especially for women and youth. “Yet, with 87% of its energy mix still fossil fuel-based, the industry faces mounting pressure to embrace low-carbon alternatives,” the report stated.

To expedite the immigration process, India will streamline foreign national arrivals from 1 October by replacing physical disembarkation cards with optional digital e-arrival cards for work, tourism, study, or business purposes. This initiative, alongside the existing Fast Track Immigration – Trusted Traveller Programme for Indian citizens and OCI holders, aims to significantly reduce immigration delays at airports nationwide.

Tamil Nadu emerged as a leading travel destination, attracting 306 million domestic and 1.6 million international tourists in 2024, revealed Venkatesan Dhattareyan, Regional Director (South), MoT, GoI, at TTE 2025 in Madurai. “While these figures highlight vast opportunities, they also underline the responsibility of sustainable growth,” he said, stressing the importance of leveraging this momentum for further investment and development in India’s tourism sector. India recorded a major tourism boost in 2024, with 9.95 million foreign tourists and 2,950 million domestic travellers. Domestic tourism is projected to reach 30 million by the year-end.