Category Archives: Breaking News (All Categories)

Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Tourism Minister, GoI, said, “The government has approved the initiative to develop tribal homestays under the Swadesh Darshan scheme. The intervention includes the development of 1000 homestays with support of up to ₹5 lakh per unit (for new construction), up to ₹3 lakh (renovation), and ₹5 lakh for village community requirements.”

Join TourFox for an exclusive webinar tomorrow at 3 pm to explore their latest products and offerings. Learn how to book seamlessly on their portal and maximise your business. Europamundo Vacations will share key updates on their offerings as well. Gain valuable insights and stay ahead in the industry. For more details, contact jaspreet.kaur@ddppl.com or call 9650196532.

Marking a global first, Atmosphere Core, a leading name in hospitality in South Asia, is making its first foray into Europe with the launch of BORGO MONCHIERO HERITAGE BY ATMOSPHERE in Piedmont, Italy.  This thoughtfully restored 18th-century monastery built in 1773, the second historical property in the company’s ‘HERITAGE BY ATMOSPHERE’ portfolio, showcases sacred frescoes and Romanesque architecture, evoking the charm of Italy’s art, culture and cuisine from the northern regions. Commenting on international expansion and entering the European hospitality market, Atmosphere Core’s Group Managing Director Mr. Salil Panigrahi stated, “As we continue to grow and cultivate relationships with global partners for expansion, in the last year we have made associations with a number of European businesses.  In Italy specifically, we have the leading Bottega S.p.A. joining our unique Wine Program. These significant partnerships brought Italy to Atmosphere Core and vice versa, we now look forward to the launch of our first destination in Europe in 2026”. Located in the heart of the UNESCO World Heritage site famous for some of Italy’s greatest wines including Barolo and Barbera, Borgo Monchiero is a notable three-storey hillside hermitage featuring 19 timelessly designed suites and rooms and an on-property chapel perfect for wedding ceremonies, all elegantly restored while preserving the monastery’s original features. Once the residing monk’s refectory and soon to be an epicurean’s dream, guests can dine and imbibe in the main signature dining restaurant which will specialise in the finest regional cuisine.  Perfect for intimate and private events, small groups can host gatherings in the elevated chapter hall, unwind in a refined lounge bar, or soak in panoramic vista views of rolling hills and vineyards from the garden terrace.  A spa …

GReaT Trails Yercaud by GRT Hotels is introducing exclusive Financial Year-End Meeting Offers, designed for corporate teams to unwind, strategize, and celebrate their achievements in a serene and inspiring setting. Nestled amidst the lush greenery of Yercaud, the property offers relaxing open spaces, breathtaking views, and seamless connectivity from Bengaluru and Chennai, with Salem Airport conveniently located nearby. This all-inclusive retreat combines state-of-the-art meeting facilities, comfortable stays, curated dining experiences, and engaging recreational activities, making it an ideal destination for leadership retreats, strategy sessions, and team-building getaways. The weekday offers start from INR 5500 plus taxes per person on double sharing. Speaking on the launch of the offer, Mr. Vikram Cotah, CEO of GRT Hotels & Resorts, said: At GRT Hotels, we understand the importance of an inspiring and distraction-free setting for corporate meetings and leadership retreats. GReaT Trails Yercaud offers the perfect blend of nature, comfort, and convenience, ensuring teams can recharge and refocus while enjoying a seamless experience. Beyond business, guests can embrace the tranquil surroundings, enjoy nature walks, bonfires, and adventure activities, ensuring a well-rounded experience that fosters both productivity and relaxation. Whether it’s a high-impact leadership meeting or a corporate offsite, GReaT Trails Yercaud provides the perfect blend of work and leisure, ensuring a memorable and rejuvenating experience for every team. For bookings and inquiries, contact: 080 6221 0101.

Perfectly located amidst nature and mountains, Zurich is Switzerland’s largest city. Its touristic offerings include multiple excursion options, shopping, gastronomic experiences and a vibrant nightlife. Attend all webinars for a chance to win a trip to Switzerland in 2026! For more information, write to jaspreet.kaur@ddppl.com or 9650196532.

Foreign tourist arrivals in India soared by a whopping 124% in 2023 at 1.92 crore informed Union Minister for Tourism & Culture, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat. Delhi, Goa, Gujarat, Kerala, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Punjab, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal were some of the key states where foreign tourist footfalls were high.

Addressing the HRAWI conclave in Nashik recently, Dr Sagnik Chowdhury, Regional Director, India Tourism, Mumbai, Ministry of Tourism, said, “The hospitality industry stands at a transformative crossroads, driven by rapid technological advancements, evolving consumer expectations, and a renewed focus on sustainability. Collaborative efforts between industry stakeholders and policymakers will be crucial in shaping a globally competitive hospitality sector. This conclave serves as a vital platform to exchange ideas, drive innovation and collectively work towards strengthening India’s position as a leading tourism destination.”

Rajnish Kumar, Group Co-CEO, ixigo, says, “This holi, we are seeing an average 45-50% YoY increase in flight bookings, driven by a mix of homebound travel, leisure getaways, and spiritual tourism. Cultural hotspots are witnessing a surge in demand this Holi. Flight bookings to Ayodhya have skyrocketed by 50% YoY for Holi, while Varanasi and Amritsar have seen a 20-30% YoY increase. Tier-2 and 3 cities are also witnessing a surge in flight bookings for the holi weekend.”

India’s outbound travel saw a record in overseas travel spending of $17 billion in FY24, marking a 25% increase y-o-y (accounting for 54% of all international spending)1 and is projected to reach $55.4 billion by 20342. Additionally, the strong emergence of travellers from India’s tier 2 & 3 cities, creates a growing need for a seamless, secure and convenient forex solutions. Recognizing this opportunity, Thomas Cook (India) Limited – India’s leading omnichannel foreign exchange services provider, has launched the Borderless Travel Card – designed to empower leisure travellers with smooth and secure international travel transactions – with multi-currency support, worldwide acceptance and exclusive travel benefits. This initiative reiterates Thomas Cook’s position as India ka Forex Specialist – highlighting the Company’s sustained focus on innovation and elevated customer experience. Thomas Cook Borderless Travel Card benefits: Supports 12 global currencies for seamless international transactions and access to over 70 million Mastercard and Visa merchant establishments in over 200 countries Free emergency cash assistance and card replacement (for lost/stolen cards) Complimentary International global SIM card Security with embedded chip & pin Complimentary Airport meet & greet, free lounge access and porter services at select international airports in India* Exclusive 25% off discount on select attractions and unique experiences* Earn 1,000 Thomas Cook Edge Reward Points on loading USD 1,000 (or equivalent) and up to 500 points on card spend, redeemable for holidays, flights and hotels from Thomas Cook India  

A franchise agreement has been signed between hospitality entrepreneur Atul Sisodiya and Wyndham Hotels & Resorts to introduce the Ramada Encore by Wyndham brand in the spiritual city of Vrindavan. This partnership reflects the growing demand for high-quality, branded accommodations in the area, offering an enhanced hospitality experience for visitors at an ideal location in the heart of the city. Atul Sisodiya, Proprietor, commented, “Partnering with Wyndham Hotels & Resorts to bring the Ramada Encore by Wyndham brand to Vrindavan is an exciting milestone. As Vrindavan continues to grow as a major spiritual destination, this collaboration will provide visitors with exceptional hospitality that complements the city’s evolving landscape and its increasing appeal.” The Ramada Encore by Wyndham hotel will be located in Rukmani Vihar, Vrindavan, and will feature 50 rooms, All-Day Dining, a Banquet Hall, Fitness Centre, Swimming Pool, and more. The brownfield property is expected to open by the end of 2026 and will be ideally situated near the city’s most significant cultural and religious attractions. Vrindavan is home to more than 5,500 temples, most notably dedicated to the worship of Radhakrishna, and is an essential part of India’s growing “Krishna Pilgrimage Circuit,” currently under development by the Ministry of Tourism. The hotel site is just 4 km from the Shri Radha Madan Mohan Ji Temple, one of Vrindavan’s oldest and most revered temples. “We are pleased to partner with Mr. Atul Sisodiya to bring the Ramada Encore brand to Vrindavan, a city with increasing demand for quality accommodation. This second signing in the city further strengthens our presence and aligns with the Ramada Encore brand’s promise of delivering a seamless and refreshing stay experience for travelers,” said Rahool …