Category Archives: Agents

IATA urges all governments to promptly share their regulatory changes with IATA to ensure this information reaches the entire airline industry. Willie Walsh, DG, IATA, says, “The reality is that without the proactive support of govts, if IATA is not aware of the changes before new regulations take effect, its virtually impossible for airlines to comply with country requirements. All we are asking is for govts to promptly communicate regulatory changes concerning passengers air cargo or airport charges to IATA. Let us do the rest.”

VFS Global, the world’s leading outsourcing and technology service specialist for governments and diplomatic mission worldwide was appointed to manage submission and collection for Algeria visa applications in India, Nepal and Sri Lanka. Commencing on September 1, 2024, VFS Global will begin accepting visa applications for Algeria across categories at its application centers located in New Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Hyderabad, Kathmandu, and Colombo. This development is set to significantly simplify the process for applicants in India who, until now, only had the option to submit applications through the Algeria Embassy in Delhi. Applicants benefit from a variety of submission centres and the convenience of walk-in service to turn in their applications, cover the visa costs, and receive their visa within 6 business days. The visa types available encompass Business Visa, Tourist Visa, Work Visa, Temporary Work Visa, Family Visa, Cultural Visa, and accommodating a wide range of travel purposes. “It’s both a pleasure and a privilege to earn the confidence and acknowledgment from the Embassy of the People s Democratic Republic of Algeria, with this mandate. Algeria is a promising nation, and we are dedicated to delivering unparalleled customer service by implementing cutting-edge, seamless, secure, and dependable solutions,” stated Yummi Talwar, Chief Operating Officer for South Asia at VFS Global.

Thomas Cook (India) has announced a new AI-powered platform to help customers plan customised holidays, check availability and book – in minutes. The platform has been deployed with sellers initially. Over the next few months, end customers will have direct access to the platform via the company websites and apps. Leveraging a combination of Deep Learning & AI algorithms, intelligent recommendations intuitively tailor travel itineraries by analysing unique customer preferences.

Sarovar Hotels, in partnership with Om Royale Group announced the launch of Golden Tulip Agra. The opening marks Sarovar Hotels’ growing leisure market portfolio and strong presence in Uttar Pradesh, marking it as its 14th hotel in the state. Currently, both the groups jointly operate a successful hotel, Royale Sarovar Portico in Agra, that debuted last year. Ajay Bakaya, Managing Director, Sarovar Hotels and Director, Louvre Hotels India, expressed his excitement at the launch of the hotel, stated, “We are thrilled to introduce our renowned brand, Golden Tulip, from our international portfolio in partnership with Om Royale Group. This marks our second hotel with the group testifying our trust as business partners and our shared values of delivering exceptional service and hospitality to the most visited heritage city in India. We are confident that our guests will be enchanted by the stunning views, exquisite dining options, and unparalleled comfort that Golden Tulip Agra provides.” Ridhav Arora, Director, Om Royale Group, added, “The launch of Golden Tulip Agra is a significant milestone for Om Royale Group. We have designed this hotel to reflect both the beauty of Agra and the highest standards of modern luxury. Our aim is to offer an extraordinary experience that merges elegance with convenience and we eagerly anticipate welcoming travellers from around the world to experience everything Golden Tulip Agra has to offer.”

A key highlight of the TAFI Western India AGM was the discussion on one of the most pressing challenges facing the industry: the severe shortage of trained staff. Jay Kantawala, its Chapter Chairman, says, “The need to build a robust pool of new employees has never been more urgent. Members shared suggestions on how we can address this challenge like collaborating with tourism institutions and colleges that specialise in tourism programmes.”

Oman invites the travel trade to attend an exclusive webinar on the destination and its various product offerings, along with Salam Air, Eihab Travels, and Al Bustan Palace, a Ritz-Carlton Hotel. Get valuable insights and updates for your clients today at 3pm and stand a chance to win exciting prizes! For more information, write to jaspreet.kaur@ddppl.com or 9650196532.

Switzerland Tourism invites the Indian outbound travel trade to attend an exclusive webinar highlighting the unique experiences of BLS Interlaken’s lake cruises, Aletsch Arena, Swissminiatur and Foxtown factory stores. Attend all webinars for a chance to win a trip to Switzerland in 2025! For more information, write to jaspreet.kaur@ddppl.com or 9650196532.

The Ministry of Tourism has formulated guidelines for ‘Challenge Based Destination Development’ as a sub scheme of Swadesh Darshan 2.0 Scheme to enhance tourist experience and to transform tourist destinations as sustainable and responsible destinations. It has selected 42 destinations under four categories: Spiritual Tourism, Culture & Heritage, Vibrant Village Program, Ecotourism and Amrit Dharohar Sites for development under the above scheme.

Addressing hoteliers, Dr. Sagnik Chowdhury, DDG & Regional Director (Western & Central), MOT, said, “Guests from all parts of the world visit India, and the hospitality sector is essentially a melting pot of cultural exchanges. Enhancing guest experiences is our core offering; we are more than just venues to stay. I emphasize on the need for the hospitality industry to focus on sustainability and community ties and implored the industry to dovetail its trade with the tangible heritage and intangible cultural heritage which are India’s core strengths.

Collinson International, in its latest global research report, explored spending habits of sports and music event travellers. Over two-thirds of event travellers from India (69%) participate in customer engagement and loyalty programmes. Many have joined programmes that offer points/miles (39%) or discounts on flights (52%), tickets (45%), and accommodation (39%). Over a third (39%) of event travellers from India have also expressed that they would choose a payment card that offered exclusive travel benefits such as an event package (that includes flights, accommodation, transfers and tickets), travel insurance (40%) and airport lounge access (43%).