Tag Archives: Romit Theophilus

German National Tourist Office India (GNTO India) is delighted to announce that Germany’s culinary landscape has reached unprecedented heights, boasting an impressive 340 Michelin-starred restaurants. This milestone solidifies Germany’s position as a gastronomic haven, offering a diverse and authentic culinary experience for Indian travellers. Food is a significant travel motivation for Indians, and besides indulging in their native cuisine, they also have a penchant for authentic German and international flavors. Germany’s vast culinary options cater to this demand, showcasing traditional dishes, modern twists, and innovative fusions. Out of these 340 prestigious restaurants, 50 hold two stars, and 280 have one star. Ten restaurants are allowed to carry the highest Michelin award in 2024 and adorn themselves with three stars. With a total of 12 Michelin stars, Saarland, a small state in the southwest of Germany, is one of the most popular regions for gourmets due to the high number of top-rated eateries, especially in relation to its population. Reinforcing its reputation as a culinary gem, Baiersbronn, a small town in the Black Forest region, was recently named the gourmet capital of Germany. Additionally, 199 restaurants in Germany have been awarded a Bib Gourmand, a recognition for meticulously prepared dishes with a top price-quality ratio, and 77 establishments have received a Green Star for the commitment to sustainability. The MICHELIN Green Star is a newer concept that was introduced in 2020 as an increasing number of restaurant owners are working towards conserving resources and treating food respectfully by using seasonal and local products, as well as meat from animals raised in their natural environment, for example. “Germany’s culinary scene is a reflection of our rich cultural heritage and traditions. From the …

As the world gears up for the European Championship commencing on 14th June, Germany is also preparing for a significant influx of visitors. The diverse and captivating travel destination, extends an open invitation for explorers seeking inspiration this summer, whilst aligning with its sustainably focussed narrative, ‘Germany Simply Inspiring’. Expecting over 2.7 million spectators in stadiums and an additional 7 million for public viewings. This surge, informed by data from previous sporting events like the 2006 World Cup, positions Germany as an ideal travel destination during this period. From unspoiled landscapes to authentic culinary delights, urban attractions to historical sites, Germany stands as the ultimate European destination for travellers. Indian visitors can immerse themselves in off-the-beaten-path locations and experiences, offering moments to unwind, embark on scenic road trips, or delve into a heartfelt journey across the country. In anticipation of this major sporting event, the German National Tourist Board is channelling global attention towards the host cities and the rich array of attractions in nearby regions. An integral part of this strategy involves providing accessible, comprehensive information about the host cities to facilitate travel plans, all conveniently available here at: https://www.germany.travel/en/inspiring-germany/summer-of-footballgermany-2024.html. Romit Theophilus, Director of Marketing & Sales Office – India at the GNTO, said: ” Under the narrative ‘Germany Simply Inspiring,’ the country aims to highlight its positive image amongst the Indian audience whilst promoting travel tips. Theophilus further emphasised on sustainable aspects across several tourism segments throughout the country be it in the city or the countryside. Germany not only stands as a leading travel destination but also harbours a rich artistic heritage depicted vividly in architectural marvels and the works of renowned 17th-century artist, Caspar David Friedrich. …

Some things about Christmas are the same everywhere: Enjoying the first snow, experiencing nature on winter walks, or writing a Christmas Wishlist. Indian visitors can explore candid Christmas markets all over Germany. A way to bring winter sports and nature in harmony together in Germany. Germany is committed to promoting sustainability by creating eco-friendly environments throughout its various celebratory activities. The German National Tourist Office (GNTO) India is excited about the highly anticipated Christmas markets in Germany to Indian travellers this winter. With a focus on sustainability and unique experiences, Germany provide a perfect destination for Indians seeking a memorable holiday season. Christmas markets are an integral part of German culture during the festive season. They provide a magical atmosphere, where visitors can explore beautifully decorated stalls, indulge in traditional food and beverages, and purchase unique handcrafted gifts in cities such as Berlin, Munich, Cologne, and Frankfurt, among others. This year Germany is quickening its journey towards sustainability and aims to implement sustainable practices as well as to promote locally sourced, organic goods. Visitors can also venture beyond the festive villages to experience a winter wonderland committed to eco-friendly enjoyment, featuring serene snow walks, spirited torchlight hikes, and the warmth of shared Christmas traditions. Romit Theophilus, Director, of the German National Tourist Office in India, highlighted the significance of Christmas markets in Germany and encouraged Indian travellers to visit during the winter season and beyond. He said, “Germany’s Christmas markets are a true representation of German tradition and culture. The festive atmosphere, the aroma of mulled wine and gingerbread, and the beautifully lit streets create an unforgettable experience. We invite Indian travellers to explore these markets and immerse themselves in …

Germany is increasingly perceived internationally as a sustainable destination: In the SDG Index, which shows the progress made by 193 nations in meeting the UN climate goals, Germany rises from sixth to fourth place in 2023. According to analyses by IPK, potential guests ranked Germany third out of 27 countries in terms of climate protection and sustainability. The German National Tourist Board (GNTB) is making the most of this favourable attention by launching its international “Simply FEEL GOOD” campaign, which offers a variety of eco-friendly vacation suggestions. Commenting on the campaign launch, Petra Hedorfer, CEO, German National Tourist Board (GNTB) says: “With the award-winning ‘Feel good’ campaign, we have already been successfully promoting the variety of certified sustainable products and services on the international markets since 2021. The 2023 campaign shows how a trip to Germany can combine sustainability, enjoyment and a variety of experiences can be combined on a trip to Germany. The travel ideas selected for the campaign reflect how more and more tourist regions, hotels, tour operators, and mobility service providers are aligning themselves sustainably. The strategic orientation and implementation of the campaign pay very specific attention to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and thus underpin our claim to make German incoming tourism more sustainable.” Simply FEEL GOOD 2023 The central element of the GNTB campaign is a landing page at www.germany.travel. This hub of inspiration and information presents almost 140 sustainable tourism travel ideas that were selected in a call for proposals. The four clusters “Discover,” “Enjoy,” “Stay” and “On Tour” make it easier to find your way around. In addition, maps of Germany link to further sustainable travel options to the thematic websites …

The German National Tourist Board is inviting visitors from India to take an enchanted tour of the nation’s rich history and fantastical landscapes.  With 25,000 enchanting sites, from UNESCO World Heritage Sites to hidden gems, Germany’s historic treasures provide both romantic getaways and legendary tours filled with pure magic. Whether it is the Baroque-style Moritzburg Castle constructed on its own artificial island near Dresden or Kriebstein Castle that looms ominously over the River Zschopau in Saxony; the Barockgarten Großsedlitz in Heidenau or Germany’s oldest “porcelain palace”, the Schloss Favorite Rastatt near Baden-Baden. The wonderous sites promise unique experiences, from open-air concerts under starry skies to captivating exhibitions. Indian tourists can take part in the Hohenzollern Mountain Race, climbing 365 vertical metres to reach the courtyard of Hohenzollern Castle, visit the world’s first playing card museum to design their own cards at Altenburg Residential Castle; or experience music fusion at Spandau. Explorers can also discover other fascinating places such as Sanssouci Palace, which is actually a complex of palaces and gardens; immerse themselves in culture at regular musical performances and events at Wartburg Castle; experience the annual theatrical tribute paid to William Shakespeare at Neuschwanstein Castle; and visit Heidelberg Castle, which hosts a 2 series of unforgettable theatre, opera, and concert productions. Each of these landmarks highlight Germany’s rich history and architectural wonders. The German people always like to show themselves from their best side, a country with a big heart, as well as free, lively and peaceful at the same time. We’ve rounded up some of the best festivals in Germany this summer alongside Oktoberfest. Come and celebrate with us! Rheingau Wine Festival Wiesbaden: 11th – 20th August For 10 …

The German National Tourist Office (GNTO) introduced the ‘Culinary Germany’ theme in India, to use it as their focus for marketing campaigns this year. The country witnessed 8,52,224 visitor overnights in 2017 making for a 13.8 per cent growth over 2016. Owing to this steady growth, GNTO, India forecasts a 5-8 per cent growth in visitor overnights for the year 2018. Romit Theophilus, Director, GNTO, India said, “Food forms an integral part of any traveller’s itinerary. Experiencing the local flavours helps enhance the flavour of any holiday and makes for everlasting impressions. With over 5,000 beers from 1,300 breweries, 300 types of bread, 1,500 types of sausage, 13 wine regions, 292 Michelin-starred restaurants and 3,000 to 5,000 Christmas markets, Germany is sure to satiate any traveller’s appetite.” According to the Quality Monitor survey of the German tourism industry, 4% of international holidaymakers come to Germany specifically for the variety and quality of its food and drink. The sector, therefore, contributes at least 3.2 million overnight stays to Germany’s inbound tourism. ‘Travelling food-lovers’ are generally quite young, well-educated family people with children; they are often city dwellers and are very active on social media. GNTO, India now boasts over 1 million followers on its Facebook platform.

The German National Tourist Office (GNTO), India launched its online destination training programme in India on December 14, via an online webinar attended by over 450 operators. The step comes in the light of the increasing number of Indian visitors to Germany and a request from the travel fraternity for a training module on the destination. The online programme would provide Indian tour operators and travel agents with an in-depth knowledge required to market the destination persuasively to their clients. Romit Theophilus, Director Sales and Marketing, GNTO, India said, “Over the years, we have repeatedly received requests from our trade partners to start an online training programe, which could be referred to by them whilst planning itineraries and travel programmes for their clients; hence the launch of www.germanyspecialist.com. The program consists of four informative modules: Module 1 – Introduction to Germany, Module 2 – Discover the German Federal States/ Regions; Module 3 – Theme-based Travel and Module 4 – Special Scenic Routes. We expect this module to serve as a one-stop shop for all the operators’ queries on destination Germany.”

The Indian market for Germany is growing strongly at 12.6 per cent till February 2017. India is on track to reach one million overnights by 2020, revealed Romit Theophilus, Director-India, German National Tourist Office (GNTO), on the sidelines of the 43rd Germany Travel Mart (GTM) being held from May 7-9, 2017, in Nuremberg, Bavaria. Speaking at the opening ceremony of GTM 2017, Petra Hedorfer, CEO, German National Tourism Board, said, “A lot has happened all over the world not all of it good. We in Germany stand for openness and tolerance. We welcome people from all nations with great respect from the bottom of our heart.” Emphasising how tourism can build bridges between people and nation’s, she adds, “Let us do everything to ensure that we continue to bring together cultures, people, nation’s from all over the world, wherever it is in Germany.” The event is hosted by the German National Tourist Board (GNTB) in cooperation with Bavaria Tourism-the official marketing agency and the Nuremberg Convention and Tourist Office. The mart is a high-calibre forum at which German providers can meet key buyers from the international travel industry.

Germany recorded 748,737 Indian visitor overnights in 2016 corresponding to a growth of 8.1 per cent over 2015. Buoyed by this steady growth, the destination is expecting to see a 3-5 per cent growth in Indian visitor overnights in 2017, informed Romit Theophilus, Director-India, German National Tourist Office (GNTO), India. Sharing some details, Theophilus said, “The average spending per trip abroad by Indian travellers in Europe is approximately €1,852 while in Germany alone travellers spend approximately €2.375. Also, 53 per cent of Indian visitors preferred to stay in first class hotels. A whopping 48 per cent of Indian travellers are newcomers, 46 per cent are repeat visitors while 5 per cent are regulars to Germany.” The destination’s vision for 20130 is to attract 2 million visitor overnights from India. On the trade front, Theophilus informs that the destination is all set to roll out its online training module in 2017 aimed to educate and update the travel trade on the latest offerings in Germany. This will be coupled with regular online webinars for operators in Tier-II and Tier-III cities. Continuing its destination promotions through theme based marketing, Germany is promoting ‘Palaces, Parks and Gardens’ in India while it will focus on ‘Luther 2017-500 years since the Reformation’, as its global marketing theme. In addition to this core theme GNTO will also be promoting its theme parks, smart luxury, barrier free travel and active holidays in Germany.