Tag Archives: tourism

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.”

 

Kerala Tourism to Organise B2B Meet on Malabar’s Tourism Potential in Kozhikode on Dec 27

Kerala Tourism is set to highlight Malabar’s rich tourism potential with a Business-to-Business (B2B) meet on December 27 in Kozhikode. The event, titled ‘Gateway to Malabar: A Tourism B2B Meet’, aims to connect key players from India’s travel and tourism industry and foster meaningful collaborations. Organized by Kerala Tourism in partnership with Metro Expedition and the Beypore International Water Fest, the event will showcase Malabar’s unique attractions, including its adventure offerings, culinary delights, vibrant arts, captivating folklore, and rich heritage. The meet will take place at The Raviz Kadavu, Kozhikode, from 10 am to 8 pm.

“Designed to position Malabar as a top travel destination, the B2B meet most importantly aims to foster connections between local service providers, leading tour operators, and industry experts,” said Tourism Minister P. A. Mohamed Riyas.
“Malabar has enormous tourism potential that needs to be tapped, to usher it into the league of other well-known tourism destinations of the state. This B2B meet will strive to build partnerships and enhance Malabar’s visibility on the national and international tourism map,” he added.

The B2B meet, to be held as part of the December 27-29 Beypore International Water Fest in Kozhikode, will serve as a platform for networking opportunities with senior decision-makers and tourism industry experts. The participants will also get insights into potential investments and collaboration opportunities through high-value business interactions.

More importantly, business leaders will experience Malabar’s adventure tourism potential first hand and a brush with the region’s culinary heritage, arts, folklore, and traditions. It will also facilitate their access to the Beypore International Water Fest, India’s largest water festival which will be held across the scenic venues of Beypore, Chaliyam and Nallur in Kozhikode in a spectacular combination of adventure sports, cultural festivities and culinary celebrations.

Tour operators and travel agents from outside Kerala will be part of a partially hosted programme that includes two nights’ accommodation, meals and no travel charges.

Kirchhofer appoints Global India Reps as Marketing Partner in India

 

Kirchhofer.com has appointed Global India Reps as its exclusive marketing partner for India. With locations in Interlaken, Grindelwald, and Jungfraujoch, Kirchhofer offers an unparalleled selection of Swiss watches, high-end cosmetics, leather goods, and souvenirs. The announcement is set to make the brand more accessible to Indian travellers seeking luxury shopping experiences.

Global India Reps, a seasoned representative platform with nearly 20 years of experience, will introduce Kirchhofer’s year-round shopping offerings to India. This collaboration aims to attract Indian buyers with exclusive offers, including 100% VAT refunds for groups and special incentives for tour operators and guides. The partnership underscores the growing demand for luxury shopping among Indian tourists visiting Switzerland.

Kirchhofer.com’s commitment to providing a world-class shopping experience aligns with the expertise of Global India Reps. The luxury brand is positioned to expand its reach in the Indian market, offering unique shopping experiences for both individuals and groups.

The strategic appointment of Global India Reps is expected to elevate Kirchhofer’s presence in India, enhancing awareness of its luxury retail offerings and facilitating business growth. Tourists and Indian buyers will now have access to exclusive deals, strengthening the ties between Switzerland and India’s tourism sector.

Saudia expands operations in Indian Market

 

Saudia, the national flag carrier of Saudi Arabia, is strengthening its commitment to India as part of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030. Operating since 1965, Saudia has been a trusted choice for Indian travellers, currently running 54 weekly flights across Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Cochin, and Kozhikode. With a target to attract 7.5 million Indian visitors annually by 2030, Saudia is set to transform its services to align with the evolving needs of Indian guests.

To elevate the travel experience, Saudia is increasing flight frequencies, modernising its services, and launching innovative solutions. The AI-powered Travel Companion platform simplifies booking hotels, transport, and activities, ensuring seamless journeys. Additionally, the revamped AlFursan loyalty program offers enhanced features, allowing travellers to manage rewards and upgrade memberships effortlessly.

Aligned with Saudi Vision 2030, Saudia supports religious pilgrimages, business travel, and leisure tourism, contributing to the Kingdom’s goal of welcoming 330 million visitors by 2030. The addition of 105 new aircraft underscores Saudia’s commitment to connectivity and superior travel experiences, strengthening its pivotal role in driving tourism growth.

With its focus on India, innovative offerings, and expanded operations, Saudia aims to solidify its position as a premier Gulf carrier, fostering stronger ties between India and Saudi Arabia.

Accor Brings first Novotel to the Land of Taj with Signing of Novotel Agra Fatehabad Road

Accor, a world-leading hospitality group, proudly announces the signing of Novotel Agra Fatehabad Road, marking the debut of the Novotel brand in Agra City. Set to open in 2029, this new address will exemplify Novotel’s commitment to championing balanced living, balancing business and leisure to create a seamless experience for guests visiting the home of the iconic Taj Mahal.

Spanning 13,000 square meters, Novotel Agra Fatehabad Road will offer 275 intuitively designed rooms starting at 28 square meters, offering a comforting and energised atmosphere for families and business travellers alike. Every detail will reflect Novotel’s core values of balance, flexibility, and purposeful living.

The hotel will offer an array of world-class dining experiences, including an all-day dining restaurant, a speciality restaurant, and a lively bar. Adding to its versatility, the hotel will feature state-of-the-art banqueting facilities with 2,000 square meters of flexible space designed to host social celebrations and corporate events. Leisure and wellbeing amenities will include a swimming pool, modern fitness centre, and ample parking, ensuring every need is met with ease and efficiency.

The project is spearheaded by Crystal Vista Ventures LLP, under the leadership of Laxman Das Goyal and his family, whose legacy in hospitality includes the renowned Grand Mercure Agra and Crystal Inn Agra. This new venture is poised to strengthen the group’s contribution to Agra’s tourism and hospitality sector even further.

 

Aniruddh Kumar, Vice President of Development, India & South Asia, Accor, said, “Novotel Agra Fatehabad Road is a significant milestone in our journey to bring balanced living to India’s most dynamic destinations. We are delighted to collaborate again with Goyal family, whose dedication to excellence mirrors Novotel’s vision of creating intuitive, family-friendly, and purpose-driven hospitality experiences. With its rich heritage and robust tourism potential, Agra City presents the perfect setting for this project. Novotel Agra Fatehbad Road exemplifies Accor’s dedication to expanding our footprint in India and delivering world-class hospitality experiences to our guests.”

Laxman Das Goyal, partner of Crystal Vista Ventures LLP, expressing his enthusiasm for the project, stated, “Our partnership with Accor to bring Novotel to Agra reflects our shared commitment to providing world-class hospitality experiences. With Novotel Agra Fatehabad Road, we aspire to create a destination that caters to discerning global travellers while contributing significantly to the city’s thriving tourism industry.”

With over 590 hotels across 65 countries and a robust pipeline of 160+ new properties, Novotel continues to set the standard for balanced living. As part of its Positive Impact Plan, Novotel is also committed to reducing its environmental footprint through sustainable operations and ocean conservation initiatives. In 2024, Novotel announced a three-year agreement with World Wildlife Fund for Nature (WWF) to champion the protection and restoration of the world’s oceans, the greatest source of balance for the planet, through science-based action and conservation projects.

 

As one of the largest international hotel groups in India, Accor operates 66 hotels across the country under the Raffles, Fairmont, Sofitel, Pullman, Grand Mercure, Novotel, Mercure and ibis brands. The Group has a strong pipeline of more than 30 hotels currently under development in India.

Turkish Airlines launches Sydney-Istanbul Flights

 

Turkish Airlines has announced new flights connecting Sydney and Istanbul, starting 29 November 2024. Operating four times a week in both directions, the airline will use flight TK175 for the service, with departure times carefully scheduled to suit travellers. This direct connection creates a vital bridge between Australia and Türkiye, fostering deeper ties across tourism, trade, and cultural sectors.

To celebrate the launch, Turkish Airlines is offering special fares: AUD 1,489 for Sydney to Istanbul and USD 999 for Istanbul to Sydney. These promotional prices are available for booking until 31 December 2024, with travel dates extending from 28 November 2024 to 20 June 2025, ensuring an accessible and cost-effective option for passengers.

The flights are expected to contribute significantly to New South Wales’ visitor economy, supporting 290 jobs and generating an estimated USD 53 million. Sydney’s status as a global hub for business, tourism, and culture makes it an attractive destination for international travellers, while Istanbul serves as a gateway to Europe and beyond, benefiting Australian tourists and businesses alike.

With Turkish Airlines’ signature hospitality and global network, travellers now have more opportunities to explore Sydney’s iconic landmarks, such as the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge, and Istanbul’s rich cultural heritage, marking an exciting development in global connectivity.