Category Archives: Trade News

With this development, Maldives will see a booming cruise market.

Cruise liners return to the Maldives following regulatory amendments

After a prolonged hiatus, cruise liners have resumed operations in the Maldives, with the arrival of Aida Bella, a German-operated vessel, near Malé harbour. This marks the start of the season, bringing over 2,000 tourists to the capital.

The Maldives Association of Yacht Agents (MAYA) has announced that two more cruise liners are expected later this month, with an anticipated influx of up to 12,000 tourists by January.

The return of cruise liners follows recent amendments to regulations governing the operation and mooring of tourist vessels.

These changes restrict foreign agencies from acting as agents for yachts and cruise liners, allowing only Maldivian-owned companies, partnerships, or sole proprietorships to handle such services.

Tourists arriving on yachts or cruise liners can participate in excursions led by licensed guides, as mandated by the Tour Guides Regulations.

Vessels wishing to extend their stay in the Maldives are subject to a daily fee of USD 100.

Ships accommodating additional passengers must secure a passenger license through their Maldivian agent.

These measures aim to strengthen local involvement in the tourism sector, improve regulatory oversight, and enhance the overall tourist experience. The Maldives’ cruise liner sector is poised for a revival, contributing significantly to the nation’s economy and tourism industry.

The Kamakhya Temple is one of the most visited site in Assam.

Assam prioritises Kamakhya Temple tourism: Minister Ranjeet Dass

Assam Tourism Minister Ranjeet Kumar Dass on Tuesday highlighted the state government’s focus on promoting tourism to the Kamakhya Temple, a site that draws thousands of devotees from across the country.

Following the recent Cabinet expansion in the Himanta Biswa Sarma-led government, Dass was entrusted with the tourism portfolio.

On Tuesday, the Minister went to the Kamakhya temple and took blessings there. He said, “The development of tourism centred around the Kamakhya temple is our top priority. This place attracts many devotees across the country and even from many parts of the world throughout the year.”

“I have been given the charge of the tourism department in the recent Cabinet expansion. I have come today to seek blessings of Goddess Kamakhya and I will also interact with people to explore new opportunities for promoting tourism here.” Notably, in line with the Kashi-Vishwanath Temple Corridor in Varanasi, the Assam government intends to build a corridor for the Kamakhya Temple.

According to a senior government officer, the total amount of open space surrounding the temple will grow from the current 3000 square feet to roughly 100,000 square feet, distributed over three levels. The official stated that the access corridor’s average width would rise from its present width of 8 to 10 feet to roughly 27 to 30 feet.

The six major temples in Nilachal, which are currently hidden from the general public’s gaze, will be brought back to their former splendour. A holding capacity of between 8,000 and 10,000 pilgrims will also be created as part of the project to lessen the pressure during the Ambubachi Mela held each year at the Kamakhya Temple and other significant festivals, the official added.

Meanwhile, the government has planned to build a ropeway at the Kamakhya temple atop Nilachal Hills in Guwahati. It is learned that an extensive study was already conducted by the state government to run the ropeway service from Kamakhya railway station to the temple.

CM Sarma earlier said that the ropeway will reduce travel time for pilgrims and guests arriving by train by 55–60 per cent. In the meantime, it would increase tourist potential and offer a beautiful view of Guwahati. With a capacity of carrying 1000 people per hour, the ropeway will operate in each direction. It will traverse the distance to Nilachal hills within seven minutes. The state government has set a deadline of June 2026 to complete the ropeway. (Source: ANI)

 

IndiGo has been expanding its network across the length and breadth of India.

IndiGo launches daily flights on Ahmedabad, Guwahati & Dimapur routes

IndiGo has unveiled its new flight schedule for enhancing regional connectivity to East and North-East India. The announcement marks a significant step in the airline’s ongoing winter schedule, which includes the launch of multiple new routes and the resumption of operations to key destinations in the region.

Starting yesterday, IndiGo’s Flight 6E 6441 will operate daily between Ahmedabad and Guwahati. The flight departs Ahmedabad at 8:30 AM and arrives in Guwahati at 11:15 AM. The return flight, 6E 6442, will depart Guwahati at 4:55 PM and land in Ahmedabad at 8:35 PM.

In addition, IndiGo will also introduce a daily service between Guwahati and Dimapur. Flight 6E 6441 will depart Guwahati at 1:00 PM, reaching Dimapur at 2:00 PM. The return flight, 6E 6442, will depart Dimapur at 2:30 PM, arriving in Guwahati at 3:35 PM.

This route is expected to strengthen links between Guwahati, the gateway to North-East India, and Dimapur, the largest city in Nagaland.

These new services are set to cater to the growing demand for air travel between these important cities, offering both business and leisure travellers seamless connectivity. These new flights are expected to bolster economic growth, tourism, and cultural exchange, further connecting passengers to the vibrant and diverse landscapes.

Vinay Malhotra, Head of Global Sales, IndiGo, said, “We are pleased to announce these multiple new routes as a part of our ongoing winter schedule. There’s a surge in demand, and these flights will further strengthen regional connectivity, facilitating economic growth, tourism, and cultural exchange. We do remain committed to providing affordable fares, on-time performance, courteous service, and a hassle-free travel experience across an unparalleled network.”

 

FAITH is the umbrella body of travel trade associations.

FAITH office-bearers elected unopposed for 2024-26 term

The FAITH Elections for the Post of Office Bearers were held yesterday in New Delhi. The following Board Members of FAITH have been elected unopposed for Office Bearers’ positions for next two years’ term of 2024 to 2026.

CHAIRMAN – Puneet Chhatwal, Hotel Association of India (HAI)

VICE CHAIRMAN – (Two Posts)

i) Ajeet Bajaj, Adventure Tour Operators Association of India (ATOAI)

ii) Ajay Prakash, Travel Agents Federation of India (TAFI)

GENERAL SECRETARY – Rajiv Mehra, Indian Association of Tour Operators (IATO)

TREASURER – Kanwarjit Singh Sawhney, Indian Tourist Transporters Association (ITTA)

The Federation of Associations in Indian Tourism and Hospitality (FAITH) is the Policy Federation 10 National Associations in India representing the entire Tourism and Hospitality Industry of the country which includes ADTOI, ATOAI, FHRAI, HAI, IATO, ICPB, IHHA, ITTA, TAAI, TAFI) and Cause Partner – AIRDA.

The federation was formed with an objective to have a collective industry voice to envisage the growth of tourism, travel and hospitality sector of India and achieve our target.

Rajiv Mehra, General Secretary – FAITH, thanked Homa Mistry, who was the Returning Officer for the elections.

Mehra on behalf of all the elected Office Bearers assured to work cohesively for the benefit of the tourism and hospitality industry and fulfill the dreams of Prime Minister and achieve the targets of set by him.

Daniel Dsouza joins DreamSetGo as Co-Founder

DreamSetGo, India’s premier sports experiences and travel platform, has appointed Daniel Dsouza as its new Co-Founder. He will join the leadership team to help drive the company’s next phase of growth and strengthen its position as a leader in the rapidly expanding sports travel sector.

Daniel brings valuable expertise from his key role in shaping the leisure and holiday business at SOTC Travel Limited, a part of the Thomas Cook Group (formerly Kuoni Travel). His deep knowledge of the travel and tourism industry, along with a keen understanding of evolving consumer preferences, will be instrumental in enhancing DreamSetGo’s premium sports travel offerings.

On welcoming Daniel to the team, Monish Shah, Co-founder & CEO of DreamSetGo, said, “We are thrilled to have Daniel join us as a co-founder at DreamSetGo. His extensive experience in the travel and tourism industry will be instrumental in driving our vision forward and expanding our offerings in premium sports tourism. In his new role, Daniel will focus on building a high-performance team and broadening DreamSetGo’s product portfolio to cater to the fastest-growing segment in the travel industry, enhancing the experience for sports fans across the country.”

Daniel added, “I am thrilled to join DreamSetGo at such an exciting time. The intersection of travel and sports presents enormous opportunities in India, and I look forward to contributing to a platform that offers sports enthusiasts truly unique and immersive experiences at global sporting events.”

Based in Mumbai, Daniel will collaborate with the leadership team to steer DreamSetGo’s strategic initiatives as the premier brand for luxury and premium sports travel.

 

Bintan Resorts Stands Out at Indonesia’s Bali and Beyond Mega FAM Series

Indonesia’s breathtaking destinations took centre stage during the Bali and Beyond Mega FAM Series, held from November 9-16, 2024. Travel professionals from South and Central Asia explored key locations, including Jakarta, Bandung, Bintan, Yogyakarta, and Labuan Bajo, experiencing the country’s rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and diverse activities. Bintan Island, in particular, captivated participants with its stunning landscapes and cultural treasures, making it a standout destination.

The event included visits to Bintan Resorts, where attendees explored the island’s cultural and natural attractions, such as the 500 Lohan Temple, Kwan Yin Temple, Sand Dunes & Blue Lake, and the Bintan Mangrove Discovery Tour. Thrilling water sports at Lagoi Bay Beach, like jet skiing, stand-up paddleboarding, and kayaking, showcased Bintan as the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure.

The FAM trip also featured site inspections of luxurious resorts on the island, emphasizing Bintan’s appeal to travellers seeking both elegance and comfort. From beachfront properties to luxury villas, Bintan Resorts demonstrated its wide range of offerings for all types of visitors.

The series concluded with a networking event in Bali, fostering connections between travel professionals and Indonesian tourism providers. The event highlighted Indonesia’s potential in global markets, with India represented by three top travel agents, underscoring the growing interest in Indonesia, especially Bintan, for MICE, weddings, and unique travel experiences.

“We are thrilled to partner with VFS Global to introduce the beauty and charm of Bintan Island to the Indian market,” said Abdul Wahab, Chief Operating Officer of Bintan Resorts. “This collaboration will elevate Bintan’s status as a must-visit destination for Indian tourists. We eagerly look forward to welcoming more visitors from India and providing them with the extraordinary experiences that only Bintan Island can offer.”