Category Archives: Breaking News (All Categories)

As per Mabrian’s, ‘India Market Insights: Outbound & Inbound’ report, launched during WTM 2024, several destinations are rising in Europe for Indian arrivals. Spain saw a 3.8% surge in demand, alongside Austria (+9.8%) and Greece (+18.3%), which witnessed highest growth in the past 12 months.

Outbound Marketing recently unveiled the Corinthia Hotels- Luxury Portfolio to a very select gathering of the Indian Travel Trade. Vasudha Sondhi and Nupur Dhandaria hosted these exclusive luncheons in Mumbai and Delhi with the select purpose of honouring and thanking Outbound Marketing’s partners for their continued support. Guests explored luxurious destinations like London, Lisbon, Malta, and New York City while eagerly anticipating new openings in Brussels, Bucharest, and Rome. The luncheons provided a valuable opportunity for networking and discovery, highlighting Corinthia’s commitment to luxury hospitality. Founded six decades ago in Malta by the Pisani family, Corinthia Hotels has evolved into a globally renowned luxury brand with properties in some of the world’s most prestigious destinations. Each hotel is an emblem of grand boutique luxury, offering the exclusivity and personal touch of a boutique establishment combined with the grandeur of a grande dame. Corinthia Hotels is present in several countries across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa.

~The Ministry held a virtual meeting to reassure the travel fraternity regarding safety and accessibility~ The Israel Ministry of Tourism (IMOT) held a virtual meeting on 19th September 2024 to engage with travel agents, tour operators, media professionals, and the travel fraternity across India to offer updates on the current situation in Israel. The meeting was led by Hassan Madah, Director of North America – Marketing and Administration, alongside Amruta Bangera, Director of Marketing, IMOT India. A key focus of the discussion was ensuring the safety of travelers, with IMOT reiterating that most of Israel remains open for tourism. The meeting emphasized that while certain regions near the northern and southern borders are under heightened attention, the majority of the country continues to welcome visitors on a regular basis from across the globe. The discussion also addressed practical travel concerns, offering clarity on the visa process, travel insurance options, and multiple-entry visa requirements. Additionally, attendees were updated on the wide range of experiences Israel offers, spanning pilgrimage sites, beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and adventure tourism. IMOT’s messaging underscored that Israel remains an attractive destination for all types of travelers. Highlighting the number of outbound travelers that Israel welcomed in 2024, Amruta Bangera stated, “The year of 2024 has witnessed a gradual yet steady rise in tourism to Israel, with 6,800 visitors from travelling from India and 672,400 globally, from January to August. Despite the current situation, we remain optimistic about continuing this growth as tourism across the country remains fully operational, with most areas being safe for travel. We are also working to streamline the visa process to make it easier for travelers to experience the beauty and diversity that …

CGH Earth Saha is thrilled to announce the opening of Mansao Curtorim, the latest addition to its burgeoning villa and bungalow holiday collection. Nestled in the tranquil village of Curtorim, this 223-year-old heritage villa serves as a unique getaway for travellers eager to discover an unexplored side of Goa, all within a serene and unhurried environment of an authentic old-Goan village and the beaches, a 30-min drive away. Set amidst lush landscapes, historic churches, and peaceful paddy fields, Mansao Curtorim has undergone meticulous restoration, harmoniously blending traditional Indo-Portuguese architecture with contemporary comforts. The villa’s striking red-hued façade complemented by high wooden ceilings, expansive sit-outs overlooking vibrant tropical gardens, and carefully selected colonial Goan furniture, encapsulates the timeless allure of Goa’s rich cultural heritage. Mansao Curtorim boasts six elegantly furnished bedrooms, a spacious living room, an exquisite formal dining room as well as a more relaxed outdoor dining area framed by an enchanting courtyard, and balconies that offer breathtaking views of sunrises and sunsets. The villa’s focal point is its beautifully landscaped courtyard, adorned with archways and colonial-style galleries, creating a picturesque setting perfect for relaxation or intimate gatherings. The interiors of Mansao Curtorim have been thoughtfully curated with restored colonial furniture, Portuguese-inspired textiles and other intricate details pay tribute to Goa’s architectural legacy. From exquisite rosewood beds to ornate mirrors, each piece reflects the region’s storied past. A culinary experience at Mansao Curtorim is a celebration of Goa’s vibrant and diverse food culture, artfully merging Portuguese and Indian influences. Guests can indulge in a rich variety of flavors through menus crafted for both vegetarian as well as meat and seafood lovers. George Joseph, Vice President of Operations at CGH Earth …

Sarovar Hotels, in partnership with Prabhu Group, proudly announces the opening of Cloud9 Sarovar Premiere, Palolem Goa, a premium retreat that captures the essence of this scenic coastal paradise. Located at the serene confluence of the Talpone River and the Arabian Sea, the hotel offers guests panoramic views of misty mountains, lush landscapes and easy access to Palolem Beach, one of Goa’s finest beaches. The hotel has 160 elegantly designed rooms and suites, each thoughtfully crafted to offer comfort and modern amenities. Guests can unwind by the pool, rejuvenate at the Hebe Spa and enjoy a range of dining options including Trophe, all-day dining restaurant and 74° NE, a rooftop restaurant with 180-degree panoramic ocean views. The property also offers banqueting facilities, ideal for weddings, corporate events and social gatherings. Ajay K. Bakaya, Managing Director, Sarovar Hotels and Director, Louvre Hotels India, shared: “We are thrilled to introduce Cloud9 Sarovar Premiere in the pristine location of Palolem, Goa. This marks our seventh hotel in Goa and our second collaboration with Prabhu Group, reflecting their confidence in Sarovar’s hospitality expertise. Cloud9 Sarovar Premiere is poised to become a top choice for leisure and business travelers alike, delivering exceptional experiences with the distinct charm of Goa.” Amit Prabhu. Managing Director, Prabhu Group, added: “Our partnership with Sarovar Hotels on Cloud9 Sarovar Premiere brings a new level of refined hospitality to Palolem. This hotel captures the essence of Goa with modern comforts, offering guests an unforgettable retreat.”

Staunch International LLC, a premier luxury travel service provider with a presence in Sharjah and Dubai, was honoured with the ‘Best Luxury Holiday Planner’ award at the India Travel Awards. Dr (Capt.) Devender Khurana, Director, Staunch International, expressed his appreciation for the recognition and said, “Maya is truly invaluable to us, representing both material success and esteemed prestige. We are thankful to DDP and the India Travel Awards for this esteemed honour.” 

Suman Billa, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, said, “Our potential is enormous, but our performance is lacking. We have some of the greatest attractions in the world, yet the tourist experience remains poor. We need to create synergy between state governments and the industry. Results will only come if we optimise our actions among these players.”

Join an exclusive MICE webinar today at 11.30 am to explore the incredible opportunities Morocco has to offer. Whether you’re planning a conference, event, or incentive program, this session will provide valuable insights into Morocco’s unique venues, experiences, and exceptional hospitality. Register now and elevate your MICE planning! For more information, write to jaspreet.kaur@ddppl.com or 9650196532.    

WTM Global Travel Report revealed that although growth in business travel is expected to slow somewhat to around 17% in 2025, visits over the period 2024 to 2030 are predicted to increase by approximately 50%. Business travellers are staying longer and spending more per trip. While the volume of international business visits currently remains 6% below pre-pandemic levels, the number of overnight stays is now 3% above the 2019 benchmark. 

As the holiday season approaches, École Ducasse, renowned globally for its culinary excellence and expertise, unveils a festive program to delight every gourmet palate. From exclusive pastry creations to courses tailored for culinary enthusiasts and exceptional professional training, École Ducasse promises to bring the enchantment of Christmas into every kitchen. The École Ducasse Christmas Log: A Tree of Gourmet Delights This year, once again, indulge in the elegance and delicacy of the École Ducasse Yule Log, a unique pastry creation shaped like a Christmas tree. Crafted by École Ducasse’s master pastry chefs, this Yule Log captures the spirit of Christmas with its subtle, refined flavors. The Yule Log features a pecan shortbread base, a smooth vanilla cream, and a rich chocolate icing, with a crunchy pecan heart hidden at its center. This multi-textured masterpiece will transform your holiday table into a gourmet work of art. Available for purchase at the École Ducasse Paris campus boutique in Meudon from 12 December 2024, the Yule Log is priced at €39—a delicious invitation to share cherished holiday moments. For more information or to reserve your Yule Log, visit the Paris Campus boutique in Meudon: https://www.ecoleducasse.com/ Workshops to Elevate Your Culinary Talents For those who wish to hone their culinary skills and impress family and friends during the festive season, the École Ducasse Paris Studio offers a series of workshops throughout December, specially designed for cooking enthusiasts. Yesterday’s and Today’s Yule Logs (2 sessions: 13 or 18 December – Price: €179): Guided by our expert pastry chefs, learn to craft Yule Logs that blend modern chic with traditional flavors, from chocolate delights to classic praline. Impress your guests with desserts that elegantly merge tradition …