Category Archives: Breaking News (All Categories)

With demand still outpacing supply, Indians will continue to pay more for hotel stays and room rates, says ICRA, with the current supply pipeline lower than post-FY09. In the last two financial years, while room inventory increased by around 5%, demand grew by 8-10%. A similar trend is expected to continue in FY25 and FY26 with the pace of hotel room supply growing between 4-5% and demand increasing by 8-9 %. Although supply announcements have picked up in the last 18-24 months, it is expected to lag demand over the next few years.

The Ministry for Development of North Eastern Region has announced an inter-ministerial Tourism Task Force that has been set to develop one world-class tourism site per North East state to attract global visitors. The task force will also work towards establishing GI status for 200 unique products in the NE region and foster cultural identity and brand recognition. Tourism sites for development in each state have been identified and shared with the respective states, however, the state shall be taking a final decision on the way forward.

Sharing an update from the Ministry of Tourism, Dr Sagnik Chowdhury, Deputy Director General & Regional Director (West & Central India) at Ministry of Tourism, said “We plan to document GI tagged products all across India. In the western region we will focus on Gujarat, Maharashtra, Goa, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and the UT of Daman & Diu, Dadra Nagar Haveli. We will document, photograph and develop literature on all GI tagged products in this region. They are an indicator of our heritage and culture and will help attract tourism.”

The Government of Odisha has launched a luxury cruise service on the Chilika Lake at Barkul in Khurda district. Deputy CM of Odisha Pravati Parida says, “Tourists can relish the beauty of Kalijai Island and Nalabana Bird Sanctuary while travelling on the luxury cruises at Chilika, which will undoubtedly boost tourism in the state. Commissioned under the Swadesh Darshan Scheme, the service has begun with two luxury vessels.

GRT Hotels & Resorts, India’s premier boutique hospitality brand, is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Puneet Dutta as our new Chief Operating Officer (COO). Mr. Dutta will oversee the operations for the brand, which encompasses 22 hotels and resorts in India. This strategic appointment comes as the brand embarks on an ambitious plan to expand its presence both nationally and internationally. With a distinguished career spanning over 20 years in the hospitality industry, Mr Dutta brings a wealth of experience in driving operational excellence and strategic growth. His expertise also lies in leading cross cultural environment, hotel pre-opening & property turnaround. He is known for his ability to craft strategy & streamline operations to provide creative, regenerative and profit-oriented solutions to lead business in diverse situations. In his new role, Mr Dutta will oversee the brand’s operations, ensuring seamless integration and efficiency across all properties. He will also spearhead the group’s expansion strategy, while focusing on strengthening our presence in key markets. Mr. Vikram Cotah, CEO of GRT Hotels & Resorts, commented, “We are excited to welcome Puneet to the GRT Hotels’ executive team. His proven leadership and industry expertise, coupled with a strong track record in both national and international operations, will be invaluable as we drive growth and deliver exceptional guest experiences. Puneet’s deep understanding of diverse markets will be instrumental in expanding our global footprint.” Mr Puneet Dutta, COO of GRT Hotels & Resorts said “I am thrilled to join GRT Hotels & Resorts at this exciting time of growth. The brand has been at the forefront of promoting sustainable luxury and wellness in India, paving the way for other hospitality brands to follow. The …

Liberty International Tourism Group, a leading global destination management company, is proud to announce its expansion into Saudi Arabia. With a commitment to providing unparalleled services in MICE and Premium Leisure travel, Liberty Saudi Arabia will deliver world-class solutions in one of the Middle East’s most vibrant and culturally rich destinations. At the helm of Liberty Saudi Arabia is Shady Maurice, an industry veteran with extensive experience in managing destination services across the region. Under his leadership, Liberty Saudi Arabia aims to meet the growing demand for premium travel experiences and business events in the Kingdom. “Saudi Arabia is at the forefront of a global transformation in tourism and business events,” said Shady Maurice, Head of Office for Liberty Saudi Arabia. “The Kingdom’s Vision 2030 has paved the way for incredible opportunities, and I am thrilled to lead Liberty’s expansion here. Our team is ready to craft memorable experiences and deliver exceptional service that reflects both the region’s unique heritage and Liberty’s global standards.” The addition of Saudi Arabia to Liberty’s network marks another milestone in its mission to be the most comprehensive and innovative destination management company in the world. Liberty now offers its services in over 110 countries, consistently delivering excellence through its experienced teams. Mario Enzesberger, Founder & CEO, Liberty International Tourism Group, shared his excitement about this new venture: “Saudi Arabia is a dynamic market with vast potential. This expansion strengthens our global footprint, and I am confident that Liberty Saudi Arabia will thrive under Shady’s leadership.” For more information, visit Liberty Saudi Arabia DMC.

According to Booking.com’s annual travel predictions 2025, unique and unexplored destinations are set to capture Indian travellers’ attention this year. It reveals that Gudauri & Tbilisi in Georgia, Gabala in Azerbaijan, and Tromsø in Norway are among the top trending international destinations for Indian travellers in 2025.

Thailand welcomed more than 35 million international tourists in 2024, surpassing the government’s target. India has contributed as the top 3 source markets in this tourist influx after China and Malaysia. Consequently, Thailand generated more than 1.6 trillion baht (US$46 billion) from tourist spending in 2024, according to Sorawong Thienthong, Tourism Minister, Thailand.

Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, Chief Minister, Himachal Pradesh has announced ₹2415 crore for strengthening the tourism infrastructure in the state. He said that wellness centres would be developed at Nadaun in Hamirpur district, Nagrota Bagwan in Kangra district, Kullu and Manali in Kullu district with a total cost of ₹280.39 crore.

ICRA expects Indian hospitality industry’s revenue to grow by 7-9 per cent YoY in FY2025 and 6-8 per cent YoY in FY2026. It estimates pan-India premium hotel occupancy to improve to 72-74 per cent in FY2026 from 70-72 per cent in FY2025. The ARRs for premium hotels may rise to ₹7,800-8,000 for FY2025 (up 8 per cent YoY) and to ₹8,000-8,400 in FY2026.