Category Archives: Breaking News (All Categories)

With immense pride, Cross Hotels & Resorts announces its esteemed Cross Paasha Bali Seminyak has officially been upgraded to a 5-star hotel status. Situated in the lively Seminyak area of Bali, this property marries the essence of chic luxury with the timeless charm of Balinese culture, offering an inviting haven for discerning travelers. Setting the Standard for Natural Luxury At Cross Paasha Bali Seminyak, each of the 99 suites has been uniquely crafted, celebrating the harmony between modern luxury and Bali’s natural beauty. The design seamlessly blends contemporary chic aesthetics with local artisanal elements, creating spaces that are both tranquil and luxuriously comfortable. From the master piece grand penthouse to curated suites, guests are treated to breath-taking views and an ambiance that is both calming and invigorating. Signature amenities, including the bespoke Sensatia Botanicals bath products and freshly brewed coffee from Cross Paasha Bali Seminyak’s own First Crack Coffee, elevate the everyday into a realm of natural, elegant indulgence. A Journey of Culinary Craftsmanship and Social Connection The social and dining scenes at Cross Paasha Bali Seminyak redefine the culinary and leisure experience in Bali. The Rooftop Restaurant and Bar offers a carefully curated dining experience that merges global culinary craftsmanship with the island’s spirit. Alongside, the upcoming Tap Room, Coffee Shop, and the hidden Speakeasy Bar each adds a unique flavour to the eclectic mix, promising memorable nights filled with crafted beverages and natural, inviting ambiance. An Oasis of Wellness and Chic Luxury The upgraded 5-star status further encompasses a commitment to wellness, with a gym and spa designed to refresh and balance between physical activity and tranquil relaxation. Adding to the luxurious, the hotel now offers a spacious …

Sharing his views on some of the key drivers that is facilitating business travel in India, he said, “There are multiple factors that are contributing to this. Corporate growth in terms of revenue and EBIDTA margins are growing and by this FY end we will see India grow 18℅. FDI into India is at record levels. Moreover, the aviation boom in India with 700-odd aircraft in Indian skies right now is pushing business travel. It is a super exciting time in India. “

FHRAI jointly with the Hotel Association of India (HAI) is organising “Travel for LiFE – Tourism Sustainability Summit 2024” on 8th of March 2024, at Hotel Le-Meridien, New Delhi. This initiative is also supported by the Sustainable Hospitality Alliance (UK), Niti Aayog, Invest India and KPMG as Knowledge Partner. It will be attended by G. Kishan Reddy and Amitabh Kant and will explore sustainable tourism practices and global initiatives.

Sharing his targets for this year, Nalin Perera, MD, Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau, said, “Last year, we achieved almost 1.5 million tourist arrivals. This year, we have set an ambitious target of 2.3 million, which would be a record-breaking figure in the history of Sri Lankan tourism. I urge those who haven’t visited Sri Lanka to do so, and for those who have, I encourage you to return for more.”

Switzerland Tourism invites the Indian outbound travel trade to attend an exclusive webinar on Lucerne, on March 7 at 3 pm. Sited on Lake Lucerne and surrounded by gorgeous mountains, Lucerne provides travellers access to numerous excursions, activities and experiences. It is also the perfect gateway to exploring Central Switzerland. Attend all webinars for a chance to win a trip to Switzerland! For more information, write to jaspreet.kaur@ddppl.com or 9650196532.

Indian tourist arrivals in the Sultanate of Oman breached the half-million-mark last year, reaching 610,057 visitors—it is the highest recorded figure to this day. Oman’s hospitality has been a significant draw for Indian travellers, complemented by various factors fuelling its increasing popularity in India, including accessibility from all corners of the country, streamlined visa procedures, and availability of similar cultural influence. Highlighting the good relations shared by Oman and India, the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism, Sultanate of Oman, stated, “We are excited to witness the overwhelming response from the Indian travellers, thanks to Oman’s plethora of attractions, including its rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality,” said Saada Abdullah Saif Al Harthi, Director, Business Development Department, Ministry of Heritage and Tourism, Sultanate of Oman. “This milestone reflects the collaboration between Oman and our Indian partners. We wish to strengthen the relations between Oman and India, boost Oman brand visibility and drive increase interest among premium luxury Indian travelers in the years to come.” Oman boasts a diverse array of jaw-dropping tourism attractions contributing to its appeal among Indian travellers. From forts to ancient ruins to the stunning natural landscapes encompassing deserts, mountains, and pristine beaches, Oman offers a captivating tapestry of experiences. They are the main reasons for the unprecedented surge of Indian tourist arrivals to Oman. Adventurous activities such as desert safaris, scuba diving, and trekking in the picturesque mountain ranges of Oman provide an opportunity for exploration and discovery. The colourful festivals and events held throughout the year offer detailed insights into the Sultanate’s vibrant traditions and heritage thereby enticing the Indian travellers to delve deeper into its wonders. The Sultanate’s appeal to Indian travellers lies …

As Sun Princess prepares for its February 28 maiden voyage, the newest ship from Princess Cruises is poised to raise the big ship culinary landscape by offering an unrivaled collection of culinary options from celebrated chefs and celebrity collaborators, as well as ingredients sourced from high-end purveyors, and a lineup of exciting and new experiences. Today the line revealed additional dining experiences exclusively available to guests sailing on the next level Love Boat. Spellbound by Magic Castle – the Next “Extraordinary Experience” from Princess The cruise line has announced that Spellbound by Magic Castle will be the latest in Princess Cruises’ new category of “Extraordinary Experiences,” following the wildly successful 360: An Extraordinary Experience, the remarkable, multi-sensory culinary journey that debuted last year aboard Discovery Princess and Enchanted Princess. Spellbound by Magic Castle blends the captivating world of magic with the art of culinary and mixology to create an extraordinary innovative immersive dining experience, steeped in magic and adventure. Just unveiled, the evening begins in an exclusive area of the Horizons Dining Room for a delectable, shared dinner before being escorted to the secluded Spellbound Bar, nestled behind a non-descript door where magic and mixology awaits. Talented, Magic Castle-sponsored magicians perform incredible feats of illusion in themed rooms and theatrical cocktails are delivered by sleight-of-hand servers. With three nightly offerings at 5 pm, 7 pm and 9 pm at limited capacity, advanced bookings are required with a $149 per person cover charge. Sushi Master Makoto Okuwa Comes Aboard for Kai Sushi Sun Princess guests eager to try something new will savor Kai Sushi by Makoto Okuwa – reshaping traditional sushi with a creative approach. Through this exclusive partnership, the Master …

Dusit’s reimagined flagship hotel promises exceptional  experiences for discerning travellers and locals alike.                                                                       Reservations open on 1 May on dusit.com Dusit Hotels and Resorts, the hotel arm of Dusit International, one of Thailand’s leading hotel and property development companies, has declare that it will officially renew its iconic Dusit Thani Bangkok hotel in September 2024. Situated in the same prime location as the original property, which graced the Bangkok skyline from 1970 – 2019, this highly anticipated, reimagined version of Dusit’s luxury flagship hotel promises to deliver a fresh take on its predecessor’s esteemed heritage and once again stand as a beacon of Thai-inspired gracious hospitality for discerning travellers from all around the world. To meet the demands of modern guests, the new Dusit Thani Bangkok hotel has been meticulously reconstructed to offer an opulent accommodation experience, elevating the already high standards established by the original property. With fewer rooms, the newly built 39-storey hotel provide ample space for guests, including deluxe rooms and elegant suites exquisitely crafted by internationally acclaimed Asian interior design firm, André Fu Studio, starting at an impressive 50 sq m. Envisaged by Architects 49 International Limited and OMA Asia Hong Kong Limited, a division of the esteemed Office for Metropolitan Architecture, renowned for its groundbreaking contributions to architecture and urban planning, the hotel’s distinctive architecture and thoughtful layout further elevate the sense of space. A singular corridor floorplan ensures every room faces the green expanse of Lumpini Park, with guests …

The formal collaboration between the Cambodia Oknha Association (COA) and the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) has formally given way to the establishment of the India-Cambodia Joint Business Council (ICJBC). Cambodia’s tourism ministry revealed that Cambodia welcomed 68,836 Indian guests last year, a jump of 102%.

HRAWI recommends reform in GST framework for restaurants within hotel premises. “The sudden jump in GST from 5 per cent to 18 per cent when room rates exceed ₹7500/-, creates uncertainty for guests and places hotels at a disadvantage. We have submitted a representation to the Government,” said Pradeep Shetty, President, HRAWI.