Category Archives: Breaking News (All Categories)

Arjun Oberoi, Executive Chairman, Oberoi Group, said, “The group is set for expansion into new markets, including Saudi Arabia and Egypt, while maintaining a strong focus on the domestic Indian market.” The group delivered one of its strongest performances in FY2025. The hotel chain aims to capitalise on the growing premium travel segment.

Travel Agents Association of India (TAAI) joined hands with Nexus DMC, launching the innovative NEXTAAl platform. This collaborative effort aims to revolutionise the travel industry, offering unparalleled benefits and opportunities to the association’s members. The aim is to empower travel excellence through this strategic partnership.

In a significant policy shift, VK Saxena, LG, Delhi has withdrawn the requirement for police-issued licences and NOCs for 7 trade categories, including hotels, motels, guest houses & eating houses. K B Kachru, President, HAI, hailed it as a landmark decision, stating it would boost Delhi’s appeal as a competitive & investment-friendly hospitality hub.

Priority Pass, owned and operated by Collinson International, announced its partnership with the Chennai Bulls Team, which sees them become the ‘Official Airport Lounge Partner’. The strategic collaboration kicks off at India’s inaugural rugby sevens league, which began in Mumbai on 15 June 2025. The league makes history by being the first of its kind in the country to take place in the sevens format, featuring six teams of elite international rugby talents alongside top-tier players from India, including the Chennai Bulls. As part of its ongoing commitment towards supporting athlete wellness, Priority Pass will be providing a one-year Prestige Membership to every player and coach of the Chennai Bulls Team. This membership will enable the team to gain unlimited access to more than 1,700 airport lounges and travel experiences in over 725 airports across 145 countries, including 70 in India. Commenting on the partnership with the Chennai Bulls Team, Todd Handcock, Global Chief Commercial Officer and Asia Pacific Executive Chair, Collinson International, said, “India’s inaugural rugby sevens league marks a significant step toward establishing rugby as a premier sport in India, while supporting aspiring athletes; and as such, we are thrilled to be supporting the Chennai Bulls. By providing the team with access to Priority Pass’ airport lounges and travel experiences when travelling domestically within India as well as globally, we hope that they can enjoy a better rest before their flights and arrive at their destinations feeling more refreshed and ready to perform at their best.” Gaurav Goyal, Chennai Bulls, India Lead said, “We are thankful for Priority Pass’ dedication and support for our athletes as they embark on this milestone competition. This valued partnership will greatly enhance the travel experience for our teams, significantly easing …

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 …