Category Archives: Breaking News (All Categories)

Madinat Jumeirah is delighted to announce the appointment of Neil Shah as the new Associate Director of Sales, where he will be overseeing the regions of India, Africa, GCC, Asia, China, and the Americas.   An ambitious international sales professional, Shah brings over 15 years of sales expertise, with 11 years dedicated to the Hospitality and Travel & Tourism industry. His impressive career includes managing and developing key markets such as the Indian subcontinent, Africa, Asia, and Israel. Shah has a proven track record in growing and maintaining the share of inbound sales from his assigned account base, especially within the UAE. Before joining Madinat Jumeirah, Shah held significant roles at prestigious international brands. Most recently, he served as Account Director of International Leisure Sales at a prestigious hospitality brand, where he also held positions as Senior Manager and Sales Manager. His extensive experience also includes roles at diverse brands.   In his new role, Shah will lead a dedicated sales team to further promote Madinat Jumeirah’s luxurious offerings. The resort, known for its traditional Arabic architecture, premium accommodations, and world-class amenities, will benefit greatly from Shah’s expertise in driving international leisure sales across diverse markets. Shah’s appointment marks a new chapter in Madinat Jumeirah’s commitment to delivering exceptional experiences and maintaining its position as a leader in the luxury hospitality sector.

Patanjali Govind Keswani, CMD, Lemon Tree Hotels during his address at the first National Conclave on India 2047, said, “Tourism sector has the potential to resolve 50% of the country’s employment challenges with the right government support adding that India’s tourism sector is on the verge of hitting the inflection point.”

Rohan Khaunte, Minister, Goa Tourism, met with Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Tourism Minister, Govt of India, to discuss improving international connectivity and expediting the PRASHAD scheme for the Basilica of Bom Jesus. He emphasised the need for more direct international flights and robust support from the Centre to enhance Goa’s tourism infrastructure and promotional efforts to attract more foreign visitors.

“Kashmir region has experienced a surge in tourism, with footfall increasing by over 15% since the end of the Covid-19 pandemic”, said, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Tourism Minister, Govt of India, at the 25th Annual National Convention of the Tourist Guides Federation of India, held at the SKICC in Srinagar while emphasising the robust growth in domestic tourism across India.

As the countdown to August’s long weekends begins, Indian travellers embark on exciting mini-adventures. Sharing insights, Booking.com revealed that Bengaluru, Mumbai & Delhi continue topping the list, as travellers look at returning home to enjoy the long weekend. Udaipur, Jaipur, Varanasi & Puri also witness a surge in searches. While Dubai tops the list of the most popular international destinations.

As  per ICRA report, domestic air passenger traffic saw YoY growth of 8.6 per cent in comparison to 121 lakh in July 2023 and higher by 10 per cent than pre-Covid levels. However, it was estimated at 131 lakh in July 2024, 0.5 per cent lower vis-a-vis 132.1 lakh in June 2024.

Indian travellers are extending their trips after Olympics to explore Paris, which is evident in their booking patterns as per Skyscanner data. The flight bookings for travel during the end of Olympics Games week is 51 per cent higher compared to the previous week.

During an event in Jammu & Kashmir, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Union Minister, Tourism, emphasised, “Tourism will be one of the major driving forces in taking the country’s economy to third from fifth globally.” With rise in incomes, Indians are travelling more frequently, he said.

India Travel Awards 2024 will be held tomorrow at the Sofitel Mumbai BKC. The crème de la crème of the travel and hospitality industry will be present to witness the prestigious ceremony.  The event, honouring the achievers from the industry will be held for the first time in Mumbai.

Akasa Air, India’s fastest-growing airline, announced a special anniversary sale to commemorate the successful completion of two years of commercial operations. Travellers can avail of up to 25% discount on ‘Saver’ and ‘Flexi’ fares for flight bookings across the 22 domestic and five international destinations on the airline’s network, upon booking through Akasa Air’s app and website – www.akasaair.com during the offer period i.e. August 7, 2024, to August 10, 2024 Customers can avail a discount of up to 20% on the basic fare by using the promo code ‘AKASA20’ For those booking with an HDFC credit card and using the EMI facility within the same offer period, Akasa Air is offering a discount of up to 25% on the basic fare by using promo code ‘HDFC25’ Both the anniversary special sales also offer a discount of flat 50% off on convenience fees for all flight bookings made through Akasa Air’s website and app during the offer period. The offer is valid for bookings made at least seven days before the date of departure and can be availed on both one-way and round-trip tickets. These limited time offers reflect the airline’s consistent commitment towards making air travel accessible and affordable for all. Akasa Air has introduced multiple best-in-class products and services to ensure an inclusive, warm, comfortable, and efficient flying experience. The Boeing 737 MAX aircraft provides ample legroom and comes with USB ports in most aircraft, allowing passengers to charge their gadgets and devices on the go. The all-new refreshed Café Akasa menu has over 45 meal options including healthy meals, festive favorites, gourmet, and fusion meals, carefully curated to serve an indulgent gourmet experience in the skies. Akasa …