Category Archives: Agents

Emphasising on actionable efforts at individual level towards Sustainable Tourism, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Minister of Tourism, urged the hospitality sector view sustainability as a key parameter that will shape the growth of both the industry and the Indian economy.” Speaking at FHRAI’s 2nd edition of Tourism Sustainability Summit 2025, he called on each stakeholder to take responsibility and invest in sustainable actions before climate change negatively impacts business and livelihoods.

Suman Billa, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Tourism, has said that the public sector should look at sustainability, not as a compliance but commitment. “The private sector should look at green buildings, creating offerings that are carbon neutral and creating community which has ethical and local sourcing. These things must be built in business. Then sustainability will not be a trade-off, but a big strategic advantage for us,” he said.

TAAI has launched TAAI DMC Connect that offers Destination Management Companies (DMCs) in India and internationally an opportunity to remain connected with the Indian industry to help promote their products and services. In its website revamp, TAAI will offer DMCs an opportunity to actively engage with the industry. This will support members’ handhold and bring in quality relationship that can benefit our travelling customers.

IHCL has announced the signing of the Palitana Palace under the Taj brand in Palitana, Gujarat. Puneet Chhatwal, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, IHCL, said, “Taj has been redefining luxury for over 121 years and its recognition as World’s Strongest Hotel Brand and India’s Strongest Brand is testament to it. We are honoured to partner with His Highness Thakore Saheb Mandhatasinhji Jadeja of Rajkot to bring the Palitana Palace under the Taj brand. This addition reinforces our commitment to preserving India’s rich heritage and expanding our portfolio of Palaces, Havelis and Forts.” “As one of Gujarat’s revered destinations, Palitana holds immense potential for spiritual tourism. This also presents an opportunity for us to build the social and weddings segment in the region,” he added. Further to extensive restoration, the 65-key Taj Palitana will feature luxurious rooms and suites, offering a perfect blend of historical charm and modern luxury. The hotel will include an all-day diner, a specialty restaurant, a lounge, and state-of-the-art facilities such as a gym, pool, and spa. Catering to the growing demand for social and wedding events, the Palitana Palace will house a 3,000 sq. ft. ballroom, flexible meeting spaces, and outdoor lawns. In addition to restoring the Palace to its original grandeur, a collection of royal art and historical artifacts will be displayed within the property.

At 2970m above sea level, Schilthorn offers a stunning 360-view of the surrounding region. As of 15 March 2025, visitors can experience the world’s steepest cable car. On top, a plethora of experiences await, ‘Spy World’ and ‘Walk of Fame’ exhibits, as well as the Piz Gloria revolving restaurant. Attend all webinars for a chance to win a trip to Switzerland in 2026! For more information, write to jaspreet.kaur@ddppl.com or 9650196532.

To strengthen its presence in the Indian market with its India Sales Mission 2025, Cross Hotels & Resorts started its three-city roadshow in India from 24 to 28 March in New Delhi, followed by Mumbai and Bengaluru. The aim is to highlight the company’s expansion plans and new hotel developments in key destinations. A senior delegation of five people from Cross Hotels, including Chatchaya (Mai) Glaiprayong, Head- Global Sales, Cross Hotels & Resorts, Khata Sinhaseni, Cluster General Manager, Lumen Bangkok Udomsuk station, Nathkamolporn Pornanongyothin (Jum), Cluster Director- Sales & Marketing, Cross Vibe Bangkok Srinakarin, Widy Antari, General Manager, Away Bali Legian Camakila, and Khata Sinhaseni, Cluster General Manager, Cross Vibe Bangkok Sukhumvit Hotel attended the event, along with leading travel agents, tour operators and industry stakeholders. Through dedicated business meetings and networking sessions, the delegation aims to forge stronger partnerships and explore new opportunities for collaboration in India’s booming outbound travel market. The event highlighted the new property openings and discussed the company’s ambitious plans to grow its portfolio from 28 to 100 hotels by 2030. These developments reflect the company’s commitment to providing world-class hospitality experiences across Asia and beyond. Andrew Hartley, VP Commercial, Cross Hotels & Resorts, said, “India is one of our top three source markets, and we are targeting a 40% year-over-year growth from 2024 to 2025. This is the highest projected growth among all our regions. Indian travellers continue to choose our hotels across all our brands, reinforcing the importance of this market in our overall strategy.” “Our goal is to increase the number of Indian guests by 40% by the end of 2025, and we are achieving this through direct channels, expanding our distribution …

The Indian Association of Tour Operators (IATO) elections will be held on 10 May, 2025 at The Ashok Hotel in New Delhi. The elections will be conducted for the post of President and new Executive Committee Members. The next elected President will replace Rajiv Mehra, current President, IATO.

Los Angeles Tourism is back with Series 2 of its exclusive webinar for the travel trade on 27 March at 3 pm IST! Get the latest updates on the city’s top offerings and experiences. Participate in the quiz and win Amazon gift vouchers. For more information or to register, please contact Jaspreet Kaur at jaspreet.kaur@ddppl.com or 9650196532.

Keeping with its new campaign, ‘Starring Great Britain,’ VisitBritain will conduct an exclusive webinar showcasing handpicked luxury experiences for the ultimate British journey across London, England, Wales, and Scotland, focusing on luxury and culture in 2025. Join the webinar today at 3 pm to learn more. For more information, write to jaspreet.kaur@ddppl.com or 9650196532.

Keeping with its new campaign, ‘Starring Great Britain,’ VisitBritain will conduct an exclusive webinar showcasing handpicked luxury experiences for the ultimate British journey across London, England, Wales, and Scotland, focusing on luxury and culture in 2025. Join the webinar on 24 March at 3 pm to learn more. For more information, write to jaspreet.kaur@ddppl.com or 9650196532.