Category Archives: Breaking News (All Categories)

Travel MICE and Corporate Show, held in Lucknow from 11-12 January, saw 23 exhibitors and 50 buyers in attendance. The exclusive closed-door B2B event recorded over 1,000 meetings over two days. Rajdev Bhattacharya of Wipro gave the keynote address at the event.  

Sharing his views and expectations on the upcoming Union Budget, Hussain Patel, Director, TripJack, says, “The travel and tourism sector hopes the Union Budget will address its pressing challenges and pave the way for sustained growth. Rationalizing GST rates for travel agents and enabling input tax credits are essential steps to reduce operational costs and improve market competitiveness. Simplifying compliance processes can further alleviate the administrative burden on businesses. Additionally, promoting domestic and inbound tourism through innovative awareness campaigns and eco-friendly initiatives can foster sustainable development and boost the sector’s long-term prospects. The budget will most likely focus on expanding regional connectivity programs like UDAN and accelerating tourism infrastructure development in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities to unlock untapped domestic travel markets. Emphasis on digitization and targeted skill development programs can empower travel agents to adapt to emerging industry trends. Offering affordable credit facilities to small and mid-sized travel agents can strengthen financial resilience and support business growth. If these measures are included in the budget they can stimulate robust and sustainable progress in the industry.”  

In a significant move to strengthen its leadership team, Aamaghati Wildlife Resort has announced the appointment of Ravindra Nath Purohit as its new General Manager. In this role, Mr. Purohit will be instrumental in spearheading the resort’s operations, driving guest satisfaction, and ensuring excellence across all aspects of hospitality. Mr. Purohit brings over 16 years of diverse experience in the hospitality industry, having worked with some of India’s most notable properties, including Taj Rambagh Palace, Jaipur, and Taj Falaknuma Palace, Hyderabad and Ananta Hotels. Mr. Abhishek Hissaria, Managing Director, Aamaghati Wildlife Resort said, “Ravindra Nath Purohit’s vision and leadership will play a pivotal role in elevating guest experiences while embracing sustainable and culturally immersive practices.” Commenting on the appointment, Mr. Anshul Bhargava, Founder, BlackRock Hotels, stated, “We are excited to welcome Mr. Purohit to the BlackRock family. His deep industry experience and innovative approach to hospitality will undoubtedly help position Aamaghati as a benchmark for excellence in wildlife resorts.” Adding to Anshul, Gaurav Mudgal, Managing Partner & VP, Commercials, BlackRock Hotels & Resorts shared, “We believe in the power of strong leadership to drive innovation and excellence. With the appointment of our new General Manager, we are confident that we will continue to elevate our operations and commercials, delivering exceptional value to our clients and partners. Moreover, we are committed to turning every moment our guests spend at our hotel into a bright and unforgettable memory that lasts forever.” Throughout his career, Mr. Purohit has demonstrated exceptional skills in operations management, financial planning, staff training, and customer relationship management. His expertise lies in streamlining operations, cultivating guest loyalty, and implementing innovative strategies for profitability.

To make quality travel accessible to middle- and lower-middle-class families, MB Patil, Minister for Large and Medium Industries, Karnataka launched the Mysore Sales International Limited domestic and international travel packages, making it a preferred choice for Indian families. Redefining affordable travel while upholding high service standards, it offers an 18-day tour package of North India at a cost of ₹20,000.

K Syama Raju, President, Federation of Hotel & Restaurant Associations of India (FHRAI), said, “Andhra Pradesh Tourism Policy 2024-29 marks a transformative step in unlocking the state’s tourism potential. By aligning infrastructure development, private investment, and workforce training with sustainability and community welfare, the policy aims to position AP as a leading player in India’s tourism industry while benefiting local communities and the hospitality sector.”

“India and Oman continue to work together in the tourism sector, facilitating easier movement and exchanges between the two nations,” said Salim bin Mohammed Al Mahrouqi, Minister of Heritage & Tourism, Oman. Noting that Indians are number two in terms of tourism influx to Oman, he sought further improvement in tourism ties between the two countries.

India’s aviation traffic is expected to clock 11-12% CAGR over the medium term, driven by faster growth in the international segment, Jefferies said. In hotels, the industry revenue per available room is expected to clock 7-8% CAGR going ahead after double-digit growth seen in the past two to three years, it said while suggesting a structural demand upturn in the travel sector.

The start of 2025 has brought exciting news for Team MOM, as they are thrilled to introduce Oman, an offbeat and exotic destination, to Indian travelers. In partnership with Arabica Orient Tours (AOT), a 14-year-old company with a young heart, mindset, and a dynamic, owner-driven approach, MOM aims to bring this exotic destination to the Indian market. They are counting on the support of travel trade colleagues to make this venture a success. AOT’s commitment to excellence was acknowledged in 2023 when they were honoured with the prestigious Arabian Best of Best Awards. This recognition highlights AOT’s dedication to delivering top-notch experiences for travellers. MOM founders, Sashi Sherpa and Ashish Rohra, aim to offer Indian travelers a fresh perspective on a destination, emphasizing its rich and diverse offerings. They also highlighted that there is a vast untapped market for destinations like Oman, showcasing its potential for Indian travelers. Together, these two companies are poised to bring a wave of change to the Indian travel market by introducing Oman as a sought-after destination.

As people across North India bid adieu to winter with vibrant festivals like Lohri, Pongal, and Makar Sankranti, you make the most of the long weekend in January by packing in a quick getaway to Jammu’s premium mountain harbour – Skyview by Empyrean. Located in the Sanget-Patnitop valley in Jammu and spread across 22 acres of lush greenery with views of the majestic Pir Panjal range, Skyview is the ideal go-to destination for sky-high celebrations! Here’s how you can ring in Lohri, Pongal, and Makar Sankranti at the premium property that blends adventure, luxury, nature, and hospitality! Lohri: A Bonfire of Joy Celebrated on January 13, Lohri marks the end of the harsh, cold wave in Northern India, welcoming long, sunny days. This Punjabi festival sees families gather around bonfires, sing folk songs and dance the night away. People offer sweets, peanuts, puffed rice, and popcorn to the flames, symbolizing gratitude for and wishing for prosperity in the coming year. Imagine dancing around a crackling bonfire to great music and gorging on delectable dishes prepared by the in-house chef surrounded by the most beautiful nature views this Lohri! For a truly exhilarating experience, don’t miss the chance to glide above the city on Skyview’s iconic in-house gondola. It offers exceptional luxury experiences blending comfort, elegance, and the natural beauty of the Himalayas. Guests can choose from beautifully designed luxury rooms and spacious suites, each offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. Select Luxury Rooms feature private balconies, ideal for soaking in the serene ambiance of the Sanget Valley in Patnitop. Pongal and Makar Sankranti: A Celebration of Harvest Following Lohri, celebrations for the harvest festival Pongal and Makar Sankranti …

Advisors enjoy access to the New Year Sale with at least 25% off hotels for global, popular travel destinations Expedia Travel Agent Affiliate Program announces its 2025 New Year Sale, empowering travel advisors to unlock significant savings for their clients. This limited-time offer provides at least 25% off thousands of hotels across popular global destinations. Travel advisors can book until January 26, 2025, with travel dates through September 14, 2025. The New Year Sale is an ideal opportunity for travel advisors to strongly kick off 2025 by driving bookings, increasing sales and enhancing client satisfaction through delivering exceptional value. Expedia TAAP works with over 140,000 travel advisors globally, offering a wide-ranging inventory that includes more than three million properties, 220,000 activities, 120 car rentals and 500 airlines. Travel advisors benefit from a suite of Expedia Group technology and tools, such as a Virtual Agent for self-service, quick information retrieval, and booking modifications, as well as Live Agent Chat, connecting them with experienced agents for detailed assistance and decision-making support. Learn more about Expedia TAAP.