CATEGORIES

IATO calls for proactive government action to address inbound travel challenges

In the current landscape of slow-paced inbound tourism, Rajiv Mehra, President, Indian Association of Tour Operators (IATO), highlights critical challenges and opportunities. From the closure of Indian tourism offices overseas to concerns about reduced budgets and geopolitical hurdles, Mehra outlines the multifaceted issues impacting inbound travel. With a call for proactive government intervention and a strategic framework, Mehra provides insights into the transformative initiatives, challenges, and hopes to shape the future of the Indian inbound tourism industry.

INDIA INBOUND Still Awaiting a Bounce Back

Inbound travel to India, particularly in the leisure segment, experienced an abrupt halt owing to the COVID-19 pandemic. While there has been a gradual resurgence of inbound tourists post-pandemic, the numbers are yet to reach pre-pandemic levels. Numerous challenges continue to impede a swift recovery. TTJ engaged with some industry stalwarts to gain insights into the ground realities.

Uzbekistan envisages over twofold increase in Indian arrivals for 2024

With a deep appreciation for the harmonious cultural bonds shared between Uzbekistan and India, Ahror Validjanov, Director, Silk Road Office, Republic of Uzbekistan Tourism Committee, acknowledges the significant surge in Indian visitors. As he eagerly anticipates further growth, Ahror shares his view on the rapidly expanding tourism potential of Uzbekistan and the strategies in place to facilitate growth.

Mauritius Tourism to pragmatically approach its ambitious goals

Delve into the dynamic landscape of Mauritius tourism with Arvind Bundhun, Director, Mauritius Tourism Promotion Authority, as he outlines pragmatic growth strategies and efforts to enhance market accessibility. With its extensive history in sustainability, Mauritius prevails as a beacon of responsible tourism, offering valuable insights for global engagement while navigating towards an inclusive and equitable future.

Batumi beckons Indians to explore its scenic blend of sea and mountains

The Ajara Autonomous Republic of Georgia stands out for its natural beauty, local customs, traditions, gastronomy, seacoast, and mountains. The region's main city, Batumi, is a must-visit on your sojourn to Georgia. TTJ had the opportunity to converse with Mikheil Koplatadze, Deputy Chairman, Georgia Department of Tourism and Resorts, Autonomous Republic of Ayjara. This discussion, which took place on the sidelines of SATTE 2024, provided valuable insights into the distinctive features and attractions of the destination.

The rise of Western Australia in global tourism

In the vast, untamed landscapes of Western Australia, an unfolding narrative of discovery and opportunity waves at the global travel industry. As explained by Melissa Forbes, Executive Director, Marketing, Tourism Western Australia, the region represents a formidable challenge and a golden opportunity for redefining travel paradigms. Through an engaging dialogue, Forbes unpacks the complexities of marketing Western Australia as a premier destination.

NYC urges visitors to look beyond Manhattan, anticipates 383,000 Indians in 2024

New York City Tourism Conventions organised a targeted sales mission across three key Indian cities from January 29 to February 02, 2023, hosting impactful events in Mumbai, Ahmedabad, and Delhi. With a focused delegation of partners, the mission aimed to actively engage with the Indian travel trade and provide comprehensive updates on the dynamic landscape of NYC Tourism.

Washington DC aims to drive visitation beyond its Federal legacy

As Washington DC clocks a successful year of trade milestones, Elliott L. Ferguson, II, President and CEO, Destination DC, highlights India’s key role in its post-pandemic resurgence. He emphasises the significance of adapting trade strategies and making crucial market investments to capitalise on evolving travel demands.

Dubai's Blueprint for the Future

Racing through tough times, Dubai has emerged not merely as a participant but as a paragon of resilience, ingenuity, and strategic foresight. A conversation at SATTE with Bader Ali Habib, Regional Head, Proximity Markets, Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism, revealed the multifaceted strategies propelling Dubai to unprecedented heights in international tourism.

Egyptair appoints Bird Travels as its GSA in North India

Egyptair, the national carrier of Egypt, has appointed Bird Travels, the airline management services arm of Bird Group, as its General Sales Agent (GSA) in North India, effective February 01, 2024.

Emirates partners with VFS Global, rolls out pre-approved visa on arrival for Indian travellers

Emirates has entered into an exclusive partnership with VFS Global to launch a pre-approved visa-on-arrival service for Indian passport holders who have made flight reservations with the airline.

Canada announces two-year cap on international student visas

The Government of Canada, led by Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, Honourable Marc Miller, in January, introduced measures in January to address the rapid increase in the number of international students and associated challenges.

US announces steep fee increase for H-1B, L-1, and EB-5 visas effective April 1

The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has declared a significant fee hike for several non-immigrant visas, notably the H-1B, L-1, and EB-5 visas.

Rajasthan witnesses 12-fold increase in domestic visitors since 2020

In the last four years, the number of domestic tourists visiting Rajasthan has increased about 12 times, and the footfall of foreign tourists has also seen a sharp uptick since the COVID-induced slump.

Malaysia Airlines to double frequencies to Trivandrum from April 3

Malaysia Airlines is set to increase its flight frequency on the Trivandrum – Kuala Lumpur route due to positive load factor performance and growing demand.

BRAND USA's INDIA BLITZ Brings Record Number of Travel Partners for Trade Mission

In the realm of long-haul travel, India emerges as a formidable economic engine generating a substantial number of outbound travellers and cements its position as an attractive source market. Jackie Ennis, Vice President, Global Trade Development, Brand USA, shares valuable insight into its success story and the addition of newer partner destinations to the growth graph of the India Market.

Aims for tourism growth, yet unease lingers in travel industry

While the Interim Union Budget 2024 demonstrates a proactive stance toward laying the groundwork for long-term growth in the tourism sector, the persisting concerns within the travel trade underscore the need for nuanced and targeted support and attention to the immediate challenges faced by the sector.

Get Enthralled by St. Petersburg Russia's Leading Destination for Leisure and MICE

The St. Petersburg Convention Bureau recently provided the opportunity to marvel at the enchanting city of St. Petersburg and its MICE capabilities whilst offering a deeper understanding of the city, surpassing my previous knowledge of it. St. Petersburg ticks all the right boxes not only as a remarkable cultural experience but also as an exceptional MICE destination.

Multifaceted Allure of Mauritius A Kaleidoscope of Experiences

Beyond its famed beaches and sea, Mauritius unveils a surprising wealth of relaxation and adventure, making it an ideal tropical paradise with diverse attractions. Catering to a wide spectrum of interests, it stands as a versatile destination for those craving adventure, relaxation, cultural immersion, or a blend of these elements.

CHILLARU - The Living Tree Resort

A few miles short of Solan and a few miles down on the Oachghat Nagali road, in the lap of pristine nature is located a brand new 25-key boutique property that found ground and transformed into reality from the dreams of its owners and promoters. TTJ was invited to review this new and delightful addition to the Shivaliks.

Polaris Tourism invites travellers for journeys that go beyond ordinary

The newly formed Polaris Tourism aspires to be the epitome of luxury travel, setting new standards in opulence, exclusivity, and personalised service. Darshana Seth, Founder and Director, Polaris Tourism, is set to redefine luxury travel by seamlessly blending sophistication with cultural immersion and an unwavering commitment to environmental consciousness.

ONE REP GLOBAL: MASTERING MANOEUVRES OF TOURISM REPRESENTATION

As India's outbound tourism surges, an exponential increase in tourism representation companies intensifies competition among players. Delving into this evolving landscape, Hemant Mediratta, Founder and Chief Empowerment Officer, One Rep Global, HMC Enterprises, shares insights into the rapid ascent of his company, highlighting key success factors and outlining the company's vision and ambitious expansion goals.

AL HABTOOR CITY COLLECTION DUBAI

EMBODIES A PARADIGM OF LUXURY AND HOSPITALITY EXCELLENCE

OUTBOUND TRAVEL Shifting Goalposts!

The post-COVID outbound market in India has sprung many surprises and some notable shifts and changes. Today, there is a growing tribe of travellers willing to travel at whatever cost to their bucket list of aspirational destinations. TTJ spoke to some dynamic industry players to understand how 2023 was for companies and what is new for 2024.

UP ascends as a premier destination, blending tradition and progress

In an exclusive interaction with TTJ, Mukesh Kumar Meshram, IAS, Principal Secretary, Tourism and Culture Department, Director General - Tourism, Government of Uttar Pradesh, reflects on the state's dynamic tourism growth in 2023, including the opening of the Bhavya Ram Temple and plans for new circuits in 2024. The interview explores Uttar Pradesh's strategic approach to tourism development and its impact on the state's cultural and economic landscape, anticipating a surge in visitors in 2024 and beyond.

The Bhavya Ram Mandir inauguration positions Ayodhya as a global religious and tourism hub

The inauguration of the Bhavya Ram Mandir in Ayodhya on January 22, 2024, signifies a historic milestone, drawing dignitaries, religious fervour, and global attention. The ceremony not only cemented Ayodhya as a religious destination but also signalled its emergence as a cultural hub with vast tourism potential.

Air India adds new wings in aviation

Air India's debut of the Airbus A350-900 spearheads a new chapter in Indian aviation, showcasing cutting-edge technology and an enhanced in-flight experience.

Rayna Tours invests in systems and processes to build and expand new resources

Rayna Tours, the Dubai-headquartered DMC, has emerged as a prominent force in the UAE's tourism and hospitality industries. With a steadfast commitment to delivering exceptional service, Rayna Tours has consistently pioneered inventive travel solutions for its global partners. Senthil Velan, CEO, Rayna Destination Management, unveils the latest developments within the organisation, offering insights into the innovative strides and strategic advancements that define Rayna Tours.

Hyatt marks 40 years in India with robust growth and strategic plans for 2024

In 2024, Hyatt is set to open a range of hotels nationwide, catering to guests in both leisure and business destinations. Kadmbini Mittal, Regional Vice President, Commercial, India, and Southwest Asia, underscores their focus on cultivating a more diverse hotel portfolio in existing and emerging markets, aligning with evolving guest preferences and needs.

India Assist soars to new heights with collaborative spirit of widespread acceptance

Through strategic partnerships, ongoing research and development, and a deep understanding of travellers' evolving needs, India Assist strives to remain at the forefront of the industry in emergency assistance services. Harish Khatri, Founder and Managing Director, India Assist, is committed to empowering travellers and ensuring their well-being, which drives them to continuously innovate and adapt to the changing landscape of the travel industry.