Category Archives: Agents

Etihad Airways has experienced substantial growth over the years. Starting with 1,761 employees in 2004, the workforce has since expanded to over 9,250 as of September 2023. The loyalty programme, Etihad Guest, has seen significant development, growing from 65,000 members in 2006 to an impressive figure of over 9 million in 2023. The aircraft fleet has undergone substantial expansion, increasing from just two in its early stages to an impressive total of 79. Etihad’s global presence has flourished, serving more than 70 destinations, a significant leap from the 4 destinations served in 2003. In terms of operations, the airline now offers 1,350 weekly departures, a substantial increase from the 128 departures provided in 2004. The longest flight in the network connects Abu Dhabi to Sydney, spanning a distance of 12,060km. Commenting on Etihad Airways 20th anniversary, His Excellency Mohammed Ali Al Shorafa Al Hammadi, Chairman of Etihad Airways, said: “Two decades ago, the visionary leaders of the UAE, along with Etihad’s founder, embarked on a journey with a profound vision for the Emirate of Abu Dhabi and the UAE. This vision required a key player, an international airline that would serve as a bridge for trade, investment, and tourism. It was to foster international relationships and place Abu Dhabi firmly on the global map. The birth of Etihad Airways marked the realisation of that wise vision. “Etihad Airways represents much more than an airline, it embodies a symbol of our nation’s shared aspirations, unity, and limitless ambitions. Over the course of two decades, Etihad has played a pivotal role in shaping the economic landscape of Abu Dhabi and the UAE. Its steadfast growth has been a driving force behind the …

Oman Air has announced the return of its highly anticipated Global Sale, offering travelers up to 20% off fares in Business and Economy Class. With a range of must-visit destinations across the airline’s network, including Europe, the Far East and Indian Subcontinent, it’s an extraordinary opportunity to explore the world at unbeatable prices. The campaign, which is running until 15 November 2023, is part of Oman Air’s commitment to providing exceptional travel experiences that combine maximum convenience, unmatched comfort, and world-class service. Whether it’s a relaxing beach escape, a cultural adventure, or a business trip, now is the perfect time to book a flight and turn travel dreams into reality. The promotion is valid for travel until 31 March 2024 and includes one-way and return flights. The domestic sector, interline sector, codeshare partners, Jeddah and London are not included. Other terms and conditions apply. Bookings can be made through Oman Air’s website (omanair.com), mobile app, the call centre, any Oman Air sales office, and Oman Air appointed travel agents.

BLS International Services, a trusted global tech-enabled services partner for governments and citizens, announced its unaudited consolidated financial results for the quarter and six-month period ended September 30, 2023. Amongst several others, the company processes visa applications for Spain, Italy, Portugal, Germany, Thailand, Hungary, Morocco, India, Vietnam, Malaysia and Slovakia. Shikhar Aggarwal, Joint Managing Director, BLS International Services, said, “We have continued our growth momentum into the second quarter of this fiscal. The Company’s performance has been in line with the expectations. Despite revenue growth of 14.3% year-on-year in the quarter, our EBITDA and PAT witnessed robust growth of 52.7% and 60.8% year-on-year, respectively. Favourable business mix resulted in the expansion of EBITDA margins, which sustained above the 20% mark this quarter. As key markets are opening up, we expect an increase in the number of visa applications. During the quarter, we signed up with the Government of Slovakia to offer outsourced visa services. Slovakia is becoming a hot spot for tourists, and we expect good volumes from the region. In addition, we rolled out Visa outsourcing centers for Hungary and Italy in various countries. On the Digital Services front, we tied up with Kotak Mahindra Bank to offer banking correspondence services, in line with our strategy to grow this line of business. Overall, we aim to continue focusing on spreading our reach far and wide with prudent emphasis on organic as well as inorganic growth while striving to maintain our internal rate of return threshold”. The company continues to witness strong operating results. For the quarter ended September 30, 2023, company’s consolidated revenue rose 14.3% YoY to Rs. 407.7 Cr, while operating EBITDA witnessed a growth of 52.7% to …

With a strategic intent to capitalise on the strong and growing travel opportunity from Delhi’s high-end locality, Thomas Cook (India), inaugurated a new Gold Circle Partner (franchise) outlet in the city’s South Extension. The outlet was inaugurated by Romil Pant, Executive Vice President and Business Head – Holidays – Thomas Cook (India). The inauguration of this store increases Thomas Cook’s network strength increases to thirteen stores in Delhi (6 owned and 7 Gold Circle Partner) reiterating the Company’s focus to expand its footprint in the city. The new store will serve as a hub for nearby residential and business areas of South Extension, Defence Colony, Lajpat Nagar, Saket & Malviya Nagar. Delhi’s South Extension forms an important source market for Thomas Cook offering the company a range of segments like families, seniors, professionals, local trade associations and business travellers. The location represents a significant catchment of premium/luxury consumers Delhi’s HNI-UHNI. Thomas Cook’s consumer insights from Delhi indicate brisk demand of over 65% compared to last year and a 40% growth in demand for luxury/exclusive experiences. Customers from Delhi’s South Extension are displaying growing interest for unique experiential elements like African safaris, luxury cruise experiences, chasing the aurora borealis, dining in Michelin star restaurants, private journeys, staying in an igloo, etc. To cater to the discerning travellers from the region, Thomas Cook has expanded its portfolio of customized holidays and introduced a special range of luxury and premium holidays.

Adventure Tour Operators Association of India (ATOAI), in collaboration with the Government of Gujarat, announces its’ 15th Annual Convention. This event is slated to take place at the Statue of Unity in Gujarat from December 16-19, 2023. The four days will bring together stakeholders from all over the country to discuss and celebrate the growth and potential of responsible adventure tourism in India. Ajeet Bajaj, President ATOAI says “Adventure tourism, before the pandemic, was a burgeoning global industry valued at $683 billion, with a remarkable 21% Compound Annual Growth rate since 2012. The World Bank recognizes it as the largest niche market, attracting approximately 238 million travelers annually. Pre-pandemic projections from the Adventure Travel Trade Association (ATTA) and George Washington University, USA, anticipated that by 2024, adventure travel would burgeon into a trillion-dollar global industry. India, with its rich natural heritage, is uniquely positioned to be a global leader in this sector. Our diverse geographical terrains, rich biodiversity and cultural heritage make us an unparalleled destination for adventure enthusiasts. With the right strategies and initiatives, we can potentially double our inbound tourist figures in the next five years through Adventure Tourism alone. This not only boosts our economy but also promotes sustainable development in remote regions of our country. Gujarat, with its diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage, is emerging as a vibrant hub for adventure tourism in India. We are excited to unveil the untapped potential of this magnificent state, offering thrilling experiences and unforgettable journeys to adventure enthusiasts from around the world.” Hareet Shukla (IAS), Secretary Tourism, Government of Gujarat says “We are thrilled to extend a warm and heartfelt invitation to the esteemed members of the Adventure …

Costa Cruises recently celebrated the arrival of Costa Serena in Mumbai at an event on board the Italian flagged ship. Starting 4 November 2023 until 11 January 2023 Costa Serena is set to home port in Mumbai operating on a newly created program of 2,3,5 nights itineraries from Mumbai and Kochi, Goa and the beautiful Island of Agatti in Lakshadweep. Such a milestone on the 75-year anniversary of Costa was attended by Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways along with Francesco Raffa, Director Asia Region & Growth Markets, Costa Cruises & Nalini Gupta, Lotus Aero Enterprises, GSA of Costa Cruises, and other senior Officials. On board Costa Serena guests will enjoy a wide range of international-style experiences, enriched with the Italian warm hospitality that has characterized Costa for 75 years of history. A local touch will also be featured: in particular, gastronomy and entertainment will be tailored to the tastes of Indian guests. The last itinerary celebrating the completion of its India program will also explore the spectacular Maldives. Costa Serena sailings in India are ideal for both families and couples. The cruises are also a great option for wedding ceremonies, groups, and corporate incentive travel, thanks to the ship being able to offer reserved areas and services. Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, Union Minister of Ports stated, “We are offering our full support to the cruise line to home port their ships at Indian ports. We are ready to support further development of our port infrastructure to accommodate large cruise ships. It is a moment of pride for us that when the Mumbai Port completes 150 years, we have Costa coming back to offer domestic cruising options to …

Releasing the Caravan Tourism policy in Goa, State Minister for Tourism, Rohan Khaunte said, “Caravan tourism is another step towards diversifying tourism by inviting tourists to our hinterlands. It is in tune with our initiatives to offer the rustic experience of Goa to that niche segment which seeks solitude as well as thrills beyond the beaches. Goa Tourism aims at bridging the gap between urban and rural tourism while achieving Sustainable Development Goals in the tourism sector.”

Accor has launched its 24th Novotel property in India, with Novotel Jaipur Convention Centre, located close to the Jaipur Exhibition & Convention Centre. The 226-rooms hotel and exhibition centre is spread over 42 acres. It has 13 breakout meeting rooms, a VIP Lounge, 2 Green Rooms and a ballroom with 740 retractable auditorium-style seats, and 70,000 sq. ft. lawn.

The Tourism India Alliance (TIA) held its member induction and industry outreach program in Jaipur on 31st October 2023 wherein prominent tourism stakeholders from the city deliberated and discussed the way forward for the betterment of the industry. All participants welcomed TIA’s initiative and assured full cooperation for its future activities in the region and also allover the country.

Despite visa challenges, Europe continues to lead preferences of Indian travellers, and this is reiterated in Thomas Cook and SOTC’s data – with over 55% of its customers indicating keen interest to travel to Europe for Summer 2024. Hence, aimed at catalysing demand and accelerating bookings, Thomas Cook (India) Limited, India’s leading omnichannel travel services company, and its Group Company, SOTC Travel, have launched their European Holidays 2024, exclusive group-escorted tours – with multiple departures from key metros and customised holidays, commencing March 2024. This first mover initiative by Thomas Cook and SOTC will benefit early bookers by enabling them apply well in advance for their visas.