Category Archives: Breaking News (All Categories)

Virgin Atlantic has introduced a first-of-its-kind rewards programme exclusively for Indian travel agents. Exclusive Virgin-style Rewards and Benefits including epic experiences and exclusive event invitations. A first-of-its-kind for Virgin Atlantic in India, Sky High Club is more than a loyalty programme – it is a celebration of the passion, hustle and heart that define the Indian travel industry. With every booking, agents will now have the chance to earn points and unlock a world of extraordinary rewards and unforgettable experiences

G Parameshwara, Home Minister, said, “Karnataka government will formulate a new Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for mega events, meetings and celebrations aimed at preventing any untoward incidents. He added that the government will take strict measures to identify lapses.

The 2nd edition of Tamil Nadu Travel Expo (TTE) is all set to be held from 26 to 28 September in Madurai. With the theme of heritage, wellness and wedding, the event this year envision to showcase Tamil Nadu’s tourism potential to hotels, tour operators, tourism transport businesses, destination companies, wedding planners and wedding decor experts.

Newly elected IATO office bearers, led by President Ravi Gosain, met Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Tourism Minister, GoI to invite him to the 40th IATO annual convention scheduled to be held in Puri from 22 to 25 August. The delegation discussed several key issues affecting inbound tourism. The minister assured support and said proactive steps by the ministry are already in progress.

India’s aviation sector is expanding rapidly, but overall profitability remains elusive not just for Indian carriers, but globally as well, said Marie Owens Thomsen, Chief Economist, IATA. Asia Pacific trails with a forecast of only $2.6 per pax. While India likely sits below the regional average due to high costs & competitive pricing, she added.

Speaking at TTM Plus 2025, Thapanee Kiatphaibool, Governor, TAT, shared plans to attract more Indian travellers from tier II cities by enhancing air connectivity & promoting lesser-known destinations. Emphasising Thailand as a wellness hub, she said the focus will be on MICE, weddings & cruise segments, with itineraries to appeal Indians.

In a major boost to regional tourism, Surat International Airport has been added as an authorised e-Visa entry point from 30 May. This makes Surat the 32nd international airport in India to offer e-Visa access to foreign travellers, enhancing travel ease and promoting tourism in one of the fastest-developing cities of India.

GSTC, in partnership with Agoda, has launched Sustainable Tourism Academy to empower hoteliers with sustainability tools and knowledge. The initiative aims to address the demand for more sustainable accommodation options from sustainability-conscious travellers while driving transformation within Asia’s hotel industry.

Les Roches, ranked No. 2 worldwide in higher education for hospitality and leisure management (QS World University Rankings, 2025), officially launches the world’s first postgraduate program exclusively dedicated to luxury private aviation. Developed in a strategic partnership with Jetex, a global leader in private aviation services, the program supports the increasing demand for highly qualified talent in one of the fastest-growing segments of the luxury hospitality industry. Spanning one academic year, the Advanced Diploma in Private Aviation Management combines rigorous Swiss academic instruction with direct industry immersion. During the first semester, students study across Les Roches’ international campuses in Marbella, Crans-Montana, and Abu Dhabi Hospitality Academy – Les Roches engaging in subjects including the global private aviation industry, aviation management systems, luxury client experience, effective communication in aviation and brand ambassador leadership in a lifestyle environment. In the second semester, enrolled students undertake a guaranteed six-month internship with Jetex in the United Arab Emirates and will apply their learning in a real-world private aviation environment in a strategic location known for its world-class infrastructure, and rising volume of private air traffic.  After completing the internship, participants may graduate with the in Private Aviation Management or extend their studies by one semester to earn a Master’s of Advanced Studies in Hospitality Management with Specialization from Les Roches. “Thanks to Les Roches’ global campus network, this program enables students to live and learn in three top luxury tourism locations Abu Dhabi-United Arab Emirates, Geneva–Swiss Alps, and Málaga–Costa del Sol,” said Carlos Díez de la Lastra, CEO of Les Roches. “By aligning our curriculum with industry needs, we aim to prepare graduates to seamlessly step into leadership roles. This global immersion not only introduces …

Nestled in the emerald folds of the Satpura ranges, Pachmarhi—Madhya Pradesh’s iconic hill station and ecological treasure—has received a transformative facelift. Guided by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s vision of “Virasat Se Vikas” (From Heritage to Development), Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav inaugurated and laid the foundation for a host of tourism development works amounting to over ₹33.88 crore. The initiative is a part of the state’s larger push to elevate heritage-rich destinations into hubs of sustainable and experiential travel. Speaking at the event, Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav said, “Under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, Madhya Pradesh is consistently advancing towards transforming its legacy into a developmental force. Pachmarhi, known not only for its unmatched natural beauty but also for its deep historical significance, is being developed into one of the most popular tourist destinations by removing infrastructural barriers and creating global-standard facilities.” Adding to the vision, Principal Secretary, Tourism and Culture, and Managing Director of Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board, Shri Sheo Shekhar Shukla remarked, “Pachmarhi has always been a top choice for travellers. With consistent upgradation of amenities, we are committed to making every visitor’s experience comfortable, memorable, and meaningful.” Tourist-Centric Facilities at the Forefront To further elevate the tourist experience, Pachmarhi’s key attractions are being equipped with upgraded infrastructure and visitor conveniences. These include potable drinking water systems, aesthetically designed pathways, scenic beautification projects, and dedicated ‘Pink Toilets’—operated by local Self-Help Groups (SHGs)—ensuring not only sanitation but also livelihood generation for rural communities. In 2024 alone, the hill station attracted 2,87,579 visitors, a number projected to grow significantly as the new facilities come into operation. Taking Development to the Heights of Dhoopgarh At Dhoopgarh, …