Tag Archives: tourism

FAITH appoints Puneet Chhatwal as Chairman

The Federation of Associations in Indian Tourism & Hospitality (FAITH) has appointed Puneet Chhatwal as its Chairman. He takes over from Nakul Anand who since his retirement will no longer be a member of HAI Executive Committee, thereby relinquishing his position at FAITH. Chhatwal takes over with immediate effect. An announcement to this effect was made by Rajiv Mehra, Honorary Secretary, FAITH.

Chhatwal who also serves as Managing Director and CEO of IHCL brings with him years of experience and a deep understanding of the Tourism and Hospitality industry. As the Chairman to his new leadership role he will ensure a smooth continuation of FAITH’s initiatives and objectives.

According to Chhatwal, “With the support of all the members I will strive to make FAITH, a strong policy advocacy body on issues related to Tourism and Hospitality industry and carry forward the legacy built by Mr Anand.”

 

Gujarat government’s submarine project aims to boost tourism around Dwarka

The government of Gujarat is set to introduce submarine tourism in Bet Dwarka, a tiny island near Dwarka’s coast, through a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Mazgaon Dockyard Limited. The goal of the project is to provide distinctive underwater adventures for tourists, allowing them to explore the clear waters and the ancient city of Dwarka. The submarine, weighing approximately 35 tonnes, can accommodate 30 passengers, each enjoying a window view at a depth of 300 feet. This initiative is anticipated to enhance tourism, generate employment, and attract investments in the area. (Source TOI)

Kerala aims to unlock its beach tourism potential fully

Kerala aims to harness its 580-kilometer coastline, adorned with exquisite seaside retreats such as Asia’s longest drive-in beach in Muzhappilangad, to boost tourism. According to Tourism Minister P.A. Mohamed Riyas, there’s untapped potential in beach tourism that the state must explore. The government plans to connect various tourist spots along the extensive coastline spanning nine out of its 14 districts.

During the inauguration of the district’s inaugural floating bridge at Papanasam Beach, the seventh in the state, the minister emphasized how these additions will enhance tourists attractions of these coastal districts for tourists.

“There is a huge potential for beach tourism in Kerala, and it will be utilised effectively,” he said. “Kerala’s coastline is ideal for water sports. But there are a few projects now. If effectively utilised, it will immensely contribute to the state’s revenues.”

He said many investors had come forward at the first Tourism Investors’ Meet held in the state capital last month, expressing their interest in investing in beach tourism.

Including these proposals, the minister said, the government intends to implement more beach tourism projects in public-private partnerships. A master plan has been formulated to comprehensively develop Varkala as a major entertainment and pilgrimage centre in the state to be implemented in 2024.

“New projects like the floating bridge in Varkala, which currently has many water sports activities, will attract more tourists here,” Riyas said. The floating bridge has been set up by the department of Tourism in association with the District Tourism Promotion Council, Kerala Adventure Tourism Promotion Society and the Municipality of Varkala.

The bridge has a 100-meter length and a three-meter width with pillars on both sides. At the bridge’s end is a platform of 11 meters long and seven meters wide, enabling visitors to enjoy the scenery far off the sea.

Constructed with 1,400 high-density floating polyethylene blocks, the bridge, held by 700 kg anchors, is equipped with all protective measures, including safety boats, life jackets and lifeguards. Around 100 visitors can enter the floating bridge at a time and move along the sea’s waves. The entry will be from 11 am to 5 pm. (Source: The Hindu)

Odisha CM unveils Lyfe Hotels in Bhubaneswar

World Hotels and Resorts has unveiled ‘Lyfe Hotels,’ their latest luxury hospitality venture in the smart city of Bhubaneswar. The Chief Minister of Odisha, Naveen Patnaik, formally inaugurated the property. The ceremony was graced by dignitaries and industry leaders. Patnaik extended his best wishes to the brand for their ongoing expansion and success within the state. Strategically situated in Janpath, a key north-south thoroughfare ensuring effortless connectivity for travellers, the property has 110 rooms.

During her inaugural speech, Sonal Sahoo, Director and Promoter, Lyfe Hotels, The World Hotels and Resorts said, “It is a great honour to have Hon’ble Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik unveil Lyfe Hotels, a new luxury brand in Bhubaneswar. Our property is designed to meet the increasing demands of contemporary business and leisure travellers, as well as to host distinguished dignitaries, diplomats, and members of the State. Our vision for Lyfe Hotels is to establish it as a trusted luxury brand that seamlessly integrates local flavours, experiences, and culture with the highest global standards of hospitality. We are fully committed to providing world-class service and experiences and are determined to make meaningful contributions to the state’s tourism and hospitality sector.”

Drawing inspiration from history, Lyfe Hotels weaves its architectural narrative, seamlessly blending the past with the present. With 110 rooms, the splendid accommodations exude opulence and grandeur, a variety of diverse cuisines and inspiration of local flavours, art and culture that will contribute to memorable experiences for all our patrons.

 

Indonesia proposes visa-free arrivals for 20 countries, including India

The Indonesian Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy has announced visa-free entries for travellers from India and 19 other countries.

Sandiaga Salahuddin Uno, Tourism Minister of Indonesia said that the move would boost domestic consumption, attract investment and support the development of the digital economy.

Making the announcement Uno said, “The Ministry proposed 20 countries with the highest (number of) foreign tourists, except for those with existing visa exemptions.”

“The provision is expected to increase foreign tourist visits which will generate a multiplier effect,” he added. According to him, the move would boost domestic consumption, attract investment and support the development of the digital economy.

“We are targeting quality tourists, especially those with longer stays and higher spending in the local economy,” he pointed out.

The 20 countries include Australia, China, India, South Korea, the United States, the United Kingdom, France and Germany.

From October this year, Indonesia has been witnessing a slight recovery, with the country receiving 9.49 million foreign footfalls, which is double than the 5.47 million people that visited the country last year.But this is still less than the more than the country’s pre-pandemic peak, however.

Indian tourists made up the second-largest group of arrivals to Bali, with 77.88 thousand arrivals.

Al Rostamani Travel, Cutting Edge ink agreement for enhancing sports travel experiences

Al Rostamani Travel, a travel solutions provider, has announced a strategic partnership with Cutting Edge FZ LLC, to reshape the landscape of global sports travel.

This partnership aims to redefine regional sports travel by providing sports enthusiasts with immersive experiences at premier global events. The collaboration is set to offer sports enthusiasts an all-encompassing sports travel solution, including hospitality tickets, full travel support, and coveted access to premier global events.

The initial offerings have already garnered attention with exclusive travel packages for the upcoming ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 in India, setting the stage for a series of exceptional sports travel experiences. By managing all travel arrangements, including tickets and access to VIP areas, customers can enjoy the events without the hassles of administration. It is about delivering unforgettable experiences that exceed expectations.

Bimal Jain, General Manager, Al Rostamani Travel, said, “Our primary objective is to establish ourselves as leaders in sports travel services within the UAE. Collaborating with Cutting Edge FZ LLC, the official partner of sporting events ensures our customers an authentic and genuine experience, working directly with governing bodies. It creates a one-stop-shop for fans seeking the ultimate sports travel adventure.”

Echoing this sentiment, Raj Khandwala, CEO at Cutting Edge FZ LLC, added, “Our collaboration with Al Rostamani Travel is a natural fit for us. We are confident that this partnership will lead us to become one of the Global Leaders in Sports Tourism, setting new benchmarks of excellence and innovation.”

Looking ahead, Al Rostamani Travel and Cutting Edge FZ LLC are dedicated to expanding their portfolio of sporting events. Their sporting events calendar already includes iconic events such as the Formula One Grand Prix and multiple high-profile FIFA football events. They will proactively seek new opportunities with a focus on adding other prestigious events in the future to ensure that sports fans have access to an ever-growing list of exciting options.

As this exclusive partnership takes effect, examples of its impact will become increasingly evident. It promises to broaden participation in sports tourism, attracting fans from around the world to the region while also fostering greater engagement among the local fan base. All communications related to event details, ticketing, and travel will be available through the Al Rostamani Travel and Cutting Edge websites.”