Category Archives: Breaking News (All Categories)

The Hotel Association of India held key discussions with Dr. Atul Patne, Principal Secretary-Tourism, Government of Maharashtra, on enhancing the state’s hotel ecosystem. HAI proposed industry electricity tariffs, a unified ‘One License One Property’ model, and stronger incentives under the 2024 tourism policy. The government responded positively, supporting long-term investment, sustainable growth and ease of doing business in hospitality. 

Andaman and Nicobar Islands have unveiled an ambitious tourism roadmap featuring luxury resorts, a yacht marina and eco-adventure offerings. Chief Secretary Chandra Bhushan Kumar highlighted efforts to gain UNESCO status for the Cellular Jail and boost heritage tourism. With growing tourist arrivals and expanded destinations, the islands aim to become a premium global destination rooted in sustainability and culture. 

Sunil Kumar, President, TAAI, said, “Cancellations are taking place. The options are offered to travellers as they are not preferring Air India. But this is temporary, in my opinion, since the fear has taken over decision making. There is no significant decline that is noticed. Lower booking classes would otherwise open up. Surely, the accident that happened, ought not to have happened but the airline is doing its best. We are confident of their extra care that would get invested. It will take some time for this setback to get cleared, particularly the fear driven decision making. Normalcy will take over, once repeated and consistent successes of flying is noticed.”  

Turtle Down Under in collaboration with Tourism Australia will conduct a webinar on 27 June at 12pm IST highlighting different experiences that visitors can indulge in when travelling to Australia. The webinar will include exclusive destination presentations from tourism board members. Register and attend for a chance to win an Amazon voucher. For more information, write to jaspreet.kaur@ddppl.com or 9650196532.    

1. Clarks Safari has recently entered Madhya Pradesh. Tell us more about your Rewa property. A: We’re excited to expand our footprint with a new 100-room resort at Rewa Eco Park. Nestled in the serene landscapes of the Vindhya Range, the property is designed as a nature-centric retreat, combining sustainable architecture with modern comforts. Key features include a thoughtfully curated restaurant, lush gardens, and a spacious banquet hall—ideal for leisure and events alike. Guests can enjoy immersive nature experiences such as guided walks, birdwatching, and wildlife safaris, while the resort also contributes to local employment through our ‘Vocal for Local’ initiative. Every element of the property—from design to cuisine—reflects our commitment to sustainability and authentic hospitality.   2. Clarks Safari has signed several new properties. Can you share your expansion plans? A: We’re among India’s fastest-growing hospitality brands and plan to add 1,000 keys to our portfolio by FY 2025–26. Currently present in Rajasthan, Gujarat,and Uttarakhand, we aim to deepen our presence through a strategic mix of revenue-sharing and management contract models. The coming months will see us announcing several new signings across the country.   3. You’ve launched a new brand—Clarks Resorts. Tell us more about the flagship property. A: We’ve recently introduced Clarks Resorts, our premium brand, with the launch of Clarks Resort Ajmer. The property blends design innovation with immersive hospitality—most notably through its architecturally unique Globe Rooms. Starting from Clarks Safari Ranthambore in 2022, our portfolio has grown to over 1,500 keys across midscale and luxury segments. The Clarks Resorts brand will soon expand to Pushkar, Jaipur, and Aurangabad, strengthening our footprint in the upscale space.   4. Clarks Safari has focused on wildlife tourism so …

The magic of the Maldives took center stage in the heart of India as The Cocoon Collection Maldives launched its first signature roadshow of the season in Raipur and Indore, creating waves of excitement among travel partners and industry insiders. Spearheaded by Mr. Thoha Ali, Director of Sales & Marketing, and Ms. Aishath Maisha, Sales & Marketing Assistant Manager, the showcase brought a touch of tropical elegance to Central India. The event was co-hosted by their dynamic India representatives, Mrs. Simmi Pai and Mr. Satyeash Pai, Co-Founders and Managing Directors of TAWI Facilities, the official face of The Cocoon Collection in India. Adding to the tropical narrative, Yorker DMC—Maldives destination specialists—joined the event, represented by Mr. Sanjiv Gosain (CEO) and Mr. Ashish Lamba (Product Manager), offering in-depth insights and expertise that enriched the overall experience. The event not only spotlighted the resorts themselves but also offered travel partners a deeper look into the inspiring journey of The Cocoon Collection Maldives. The group has a strong-rooted legacy in the Maldives and Indian Ocean, and is known for its authentic connection to the region. What truly resonated with the audience was the entrepreneurial story behind the brand—a transformation from successful tour operators to passionate hoteliers. This unique background allows the owners to truly understand the nuances of the travel industry and relate deeply with travel trade professionals, making them trusted and admired partners in the region. The immersive sessions gave attendees a personalized glimpse into the signature offerings of Cocoon Maldives, You & Me Maldives, and the newly launched Joy Island: You & Me Maldives emerged as the ultimate romantic escape, featuring the world’s only Michelin-star underwater dining experience, sleek slide villas …

The Moscow Seasons in Beijing festival was held in the capital of the People’s Republic of China – on the popular walking street Wangfujing – from June 12 to 15. For four days everyone was familiarized with the traditions and history of Moscow, its dynamic development, gastronomy and sights. The event is one of the central points of the cross cultural years of Russia and China, timed to coincide with the 30th anniversary of the establishment of twinning relations between Moscow and Beijing. More than 2.85 million people visited the festival. They listened to concerts of modern and classical music, participated in dance classes, tasted Russian cuisine, learned to make toys and souvenirs with national colors and much more. The event was held as part of the cross cultural years of Russia and China, timed to coincide with the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the countries. Some of the most popular programs included concerts, virtual tours and cooking classes. Several areas were prepared for adults and children. Among them were bright photo zones of the Moscow Tea Party and Moscow Estates projects, game spaces, an interactive Digital Technologies section, where you could take a VR-trip around Moscow or launch fireworks over VDNH. Also for visitors was available the Tourist Information Center zone, where they could get travel advice, learn about attractions, cultural sites and current events in Moscow. Visitors’ attention was also attracted by a special pavilion created by Aeroflot, where you could get a legendary stewardess hairstyle and light makeup, as well as a free gift for Aeroflot business class passengers. The residents and guests of Beijing showed special interest in the sights of the …

One of India’s fastest-growing hospitality chains, Cygnet Hotels & Resorts is proud to announce its continued expansion in Uttar Pradesh with the signing of Cozzet Kanpur and Cygnet Inn Vrindavan. These additions represent an important step forward in the company’s ambitious growth strategy and will strengthen its portfolio of smart and value-driven hotels designed for the modern travellers. As a brownfield project, Cozzet Kanpur is on track to open its doors to guests by the end of this year, bringing a new level of comfort, convenience and cultural flair to the city. On the other hand, Cygnet Inn Vrindavan will welcome guests by early 2027. Mr. Sarbendra Sarkar, Founder & Managing Director, Cygnet Hotels & Resorts said, “The state of Uttar Pradesh is a key market in our expansion strategy as we work towards building a portfolio of 100 hotels in the coming years. We plan to open 10 to 12 properties across Uttar Pradesh over the next two to three years.” Cozzet Kanpur will feature 40 well-appointed rooms, blending style and functionality for the modern traveller. The hotel is also set to become a premier destination for events and celebrations with two expansive banquet halls capable of accommodating 8,000 to 10,000 guests, thoughtfully designed with contemporary aesthetics and cutting-edge technology. In terms of its F&B offerings, guests will enjoy a vibrant culinary experience at the hotel’s 60-cover all day dining restaurant and unwind at the stylish lounge bar. Cygnet Inn Vrindavan will feature 60 well-appointed rooms designed for comfort and convenience, making it an ideal choice for both business and leisure travellers. The hotel will offer a range of modern amenities including an 80-cover all-day dining restaurant serving a …

Sameer Karnani, Director, Arunodaya Travels, said, “Many Indian travellers are simply not comfortable flying right now. Even those who had summer travel plans have chosen to postpone. The overall sentiment is cautious, not just because of the Air India crash but due to a globally unstable environment. Multiple factors are contributing to a visible dip in confidence.” 

West Bengal now has the highest number of certified tourist guides in India, with 1,022 trained across districts under a dedicated state. Debjit Dutta, Director & CEO, Impression Tourism Services (India), said, “This is a landmark moment for West Bengal’s tourism industry. The initiative has not only created skilled guides but also empowered local communities to become tourism entrepreneurs.”