Travel Trade Journal - December 2023

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As we enter December, it is always a good opportunity to look back and ponder over the past year. The year 2023 certainly has not been an easy year by any means for the industry, but there was plenty of brightness if you knew where to look. Notably, the outbound travel sector in India has displayed remarkable growth, defying the constraints that defined the year. Thus, our December issue, in many of its pages, offers an analytical perspective on the past and current state of outbound travel in India.

Miral announces major expansion to Yas Yas Island, Abu Dhabi Waterworld

Set for construction completion in 2025, the 16,900 sqm expansion will see the addition of 3.3 km of slide sections and is expected to grow guest capacity by 20 per cent through the addition of 18 new thrilling rides and attractions, taking the park total to more than 60 rides and experiences.

1 min

Manta Air to commence direct flights between Bengaluru and Dhaalu Airport from January 2024

Manta Air, a Maldivian airline, is all set to commence direct flights from India to the tropical paradise of Maldives. The momentous announcement took place at a prestigious event hosted at the chic Bang at The RitzCarlton Hotel in Bengaluru.

1 min

Destination DC lures global tourists with 'There's Only One DC' campaign

India has made a robust comeback, regaining its prominence as the fourth-largest overseas market for Washington, DC. Recognising India's status as the world's largest emerging economy, Elliott L. Ferguson II, President and CEO, Destination DC, acknowledges the market's significance and is committed to ongoing investments in this dynamic and expanding market.

3 mins

Utah Tourism solidifying its international presence with relevant market approach

Utah is one of the most alluring off-the-beaten-track destinations in the United States, with some of nature’s most incredible beauty, wide-open spaces, and jaw-dropping landscapes. Zach Fyne, Global Markets Specialist, Utah Office of Tourism, summarises the year 2023 as they continue building on their assets that increase their overall exposure to international visitors, including Indians.

2 mins

Spain offers a tapestry of delightful experiences for Indian travellers

With outbound travel witnessing a robust recovery, Turespafia is strategically enhancing its endeavours to capture the interest of Indian travellers. Elisa Robles Fraga, Director, Tourism Office of Spain Turespafia) in India, sheds light on the unique characteristics of Spain, outlining challenges, opportunities, evolving travel trends, and dynamics of the Indian market.

2 mins

Tourism Fiji eyeing opportunities for continuous development

Sunil Menon, Country Manager, India, Tourism Fiji, reflects on the transformative journey of 2023. Be it the vibrant cultural experiences or the warm embrace of Fijian hospitality, Tourism Fiji remains dedicated to delivering exceptional travel experiences, and tourism in Fiji continues to evolve, ensuring that every traveller’s encounter with the destination is memorable and transformative.

3 mins

Ras Al Khaimah's tourism vision continues to gain momentum

Ras Al Khaimah has rapidly become the preferred destination for family holidays and a rising star in the MICE sector within the Emirates. Iyad Rasbey, Vice President Destination Tourism Development, Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority RAKTDA), highlights the diverse range of initiatives in 2023, contributing to the emirate's status as the fastest-growing tourism destination in the region.

3 mins

Japan offers a blend of both summer and winter experiences

In this exclusive interview with Ryo Bunno, Executive Director, Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO), Delhi, we delve into the objectives of the organisation in the Indian market while exploring the unique experiences that await international tourists in Japan.

3 mins

Tourism Australia reclaiming the Indian tourism market

Following the border reopening, Tourism Australia has experienced a marked upswing in Indian visitations. The initial return, largely steered by the Visiting Friends and Relatives VFR) segment, evolves into a gradual recovery across the holiday and MICE segments. Nishant Kashikar, Country Manager, India and Gulf, Tourism Australia, shares more insights into how they navigated 2023 and the organisation's performance in the Indian market.

3 mins

British Tourism drives growth beyond London

VisitBritain's first trade mission to India in three years, titled 'Destination Britain India,' aimed to increase visits across the various regions and seasons of Great Britain. Louise Bryce, Partnerships Director, VisitBritain, and Vishal Bhatia, Country Manager India, VisitBritain, outline the global resurgence of British Inbound tourism and India's significance in Britain's growth metrics.

4 mins

INDIANS IN PURSUIT OF GLOBAL EXPERIENCES

In the realm of travel, India has emerged as a dynamic hub for luxury seekers and a growing community of discerning travellers. As we step into 2024, the landscape of luxury travellers from India continues to evolve, driven by shifting preferences, technological advancements, and a renewed focus on personalised experiences.

3 mins

Cruising through Switzerland with BLS Interlaken

Switzerland, renowned for its postcard-perfect landscapes, has no dearth of picturesque sights and experiences. But when you add a serene boat cruise across its pristine lakes to the mix, the experience is nothing short of magical. In an interview with Niklaus Hotz, Sales Manager, BLS Interlaken Lake Cruise, we had an in-depth look into what sets this cruise line apart.

3 mins

A voyage that exceeded all expectations

Crystal Symphony, now owned by A&K Travel Group, embarked on its maiden journey on September 1, 2023. Recently docked in Mumbai, an exclusive two-day showcase invitation was extended to head honchos from travel, trade, and media by Palomino Hospitality, the sole PSA for Crystal Cruise in India. Embarking on the newly renovated Crystal Symphony was an experience that exceeded all my expectations.

2 mins

The Evolution and Opportunities of Indian Outbound Travel in 2023

Travel is intrinsic to every human being, be it for work or leisure, but owing to the COVID-19 pandemic, the world has witnessed the emergence of altered ways of travel. Today, technology adoption has changed the way travel is searched, researched, booked, and purchased, extending to the pre-pandemic non-adopted age groups. We speak to some of our industry partners to understand how things are moving now with outbound travel.

5 mins

The Eclectic Charisma of Owl and the Pussycat Hotel, Sri Lanka

Nestled by the water's edge, this enchanting boutique hotel in Sri Lanka comprises 17 stylish suites and rooms and offers stunning views of the Indian Ocean. Its exceptional and personalised services aim to enchant guests and provide an unforgettable experience.

2 mins

Air India adds new routes, spearheads technological innovation in aviation

Air India has showcased revolutionary digital transformation and global expansion, setting new benchmarks in the airline industry.

1 min

The Alpine Allure of Courchevel Beckons Travellers On All Budgets

Often called the ski capital of the world, Courchevel is the perfect discreet winter getaway in the heart of the alpine mountains of France. Alexia Laine, General Manager, Courchevel Tourisme, outlines the magic of Courchevel, the strategic importance of the Indian market, and the surprisingly accessible, cost-effective options present in this high-end luxury destination.

4 mins

Marriott's Remarkable Growth Trajectory in Maldives and Singapore

Cheryl Lum, Senior Area Director, Marketing - Singapore and Maldives, Marriott International, decodes the reasons behind the meteoric rise of the Marriott brand and charts the roadmap to their thriving presence in Singapore and Maldives.

4 mins

Jetwing Hotels surpasses pre-pandemic demand levels

Jetwing Hotels, a trusted name in Sri Lanka's travel and tourism landscape, is known for creating spaces seamlessly integrated with the natural environment and a genuine commitment to sustainability. As Sri Lanka prepares itself to attract increasing numbers of tourists and travellers from India, Hashan Cooray, Director, Marketing and Development, Jetwing Hotels, candidly shares insights into the unique features, offerings, initiatives, and opportunities of the hospitality brand.

5 mins

Jumeirah Group to elevate brand recognition in India, with renewed focus on Tier 2 and 3 cities

India holds a pivotal position as a crucial growth market for the Jumeirah Group. They are constantly exploring strategies to enhance their appeal and welcome an increasing number of guests from this dynamic market. Kirti Anchan, General Manager, Jumeirah Emirates Towers Hotel, and Mohamed Ashraf, General Manager, Jumeirah Maldives Olhahali Island, highlight their respective hotels, underscoring the significance of the Indian market in their operations.

3 mins

Fortune Park marks 48th operational property in Aligarh, eyes MICE and Cultural Tourism

Fortune Park Aligarh becomes the 48th operational property of ITC. Samir MC, Managing Director, Fortune Hotels, expressed confidence in this new venture: \"We are confident that our debut in Aligarh will be very successful in the coming years.\" His optimism is rooted in Aligarh's growing importance as a cultural and economic hub.

2 mins

Jose Manuel Aisa Mancho joins VFS Global as CFO and member of the Executive Board

VFS Global has appointed Jose Manuel Aisa Mancho as its Chief Financial Officer (CFO). He reports to Zubin Karkaria, Founder and CEO, and is based in Dubai, the organisation’s global headquarters.

1 min

SriLankan Airlines introduces double daily flights between Colombo and Mumbai

Sri Lankan Airlines has introduced double daily flights between Colombo and Mumbai, multiplying the convenience for passengers travelling to and from India’s financial and entertainment capital.

1 min

Air Mauritius enhances its flight frequency between Port Louis and New Delhi

Air Mauritius has increased its flight frequency on the Port Louis New Delhi route, introducing an extra flight on November 20, 2023. This boosts the weekly frequency to three flights, enhancing connectivity between Mauritius and India’s capital.

1 min

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Travel Trade Journal Magazine Description:

Sampan Media's monthly publication 'Travel Trade Journal ' is devoted to strategic and policy issues in the travel and tourism sector covering all news and views related to agents, national & international tourism boards, hotel industry, transportation, government policies and civil aviation sector in the country.