Tag Archives: travellers

Collinson, Asego partner to provide access to over 1,600 premium airport lounges amid flight disruptions

Collinson International, offering the provision of airport experiences, loyalty and customer engagement solutions, and owner and operator of Priority Pass, announces a new partnership with Asego. This partnership enables Asego WaitMate’s users to access over 1,600 premium airport lounges and travel experiences globally in the event of a delayed flight, powered by Collinson International’s SmartDelay solution.

Recent flight delay statistics show that as of June 2024, almost 1 in 5 flights within Asia Pacific were delayed by at least 15 minutes and 33 million travellers across Asia Pacific were impacted by more than an hour of flight delays. Furthermore, 3 in 5 travellers in India, surveyed through Priority Pass research, revealed that pre-flight issues can initiate a “Fear of Switching Off” (FOSO) for the rest of their trip. With travel on the rise, there is an increasing opportunity for brands to help travellers allay their stress and anxiety when encountering flight delays in their journey; in turn, helping to increase brand loyalty.

In collaboration with Collinson International, eligible Asego WaitMate users will be able to enjoy access to airport lounges and travel experiences as soon as a flight delay occurs. They will automatically be sent a notification of their flight delay and a digital lounge access voucher, through which they can redeem their real-time travel benefit.

“With our recent research revealing the importance that travellers in India place on airport lounge access, particularly during flight disruptions, we are confident that our joint partnership with Asego will help alleviate their customers’ travel stress by providing a place for them to unwind and relax at the airport. We are looking forward to welcoming eligible Asego WaitMate customers to our vast network of airport lounges and travel experiences globally, said Sumit Prakash, Country Director, India and South Asia, Collinson International.

“Asego has been pioneers in providing relevant travel protection solutions to keep up with the changing travel dynamics for the past 25 years. The addition of Asego WaitMate to our product portfolio enhances the customer experience, especially during uncertainties such as flight delays. During such trip inconveniences, Asego offers comprehensive insurance along with the comfort of exclusive lounge access. This partnership further reinforces Asego’s commitment to elevating travel protection for Indian travellers,” said Dev Karvat, Founder & CEO – Asego Global Assistance & Travel Insurance.

Hyderabad Railway Station unveils modern sleeping pods

 

Hyderabad Railway Station has unveiled modern sleeping pods, a revolutionary solution for travellers seeking comfort and privacy during long journeys or layovers. These compact yet pocket-friendly pods cater to the growing demand for relaxing spaces at railway stations. Each pod comes equipped with reclining beds, air conditioning, charging ports, adjustable lights, and high-speed Wi-Fi. Designed for short and long-term stays, the pods ensure convenience, safety, and relaxation for all passengers.

Inspired by global standards, these soundproof and well-ventilated sleeping pods guarantee a peaceful experience. The secure locking system enhances privacy, while features like ergonomic design and modern amenities elevate the experience for budget-conscious travellers. Priced on an hourly basis, they provide an affordable alternative to hotel stays. Booking is flexible, available both online and directly at the station, making them ideal for layovers or delays.

The sleeping pods are part of a larger initiative to modernise Hyderabad Railway Station. Recent upgrades include enhanced waiting areas, food courts, digital signage, and improved connectivity, aligning the station with international travel standards. These developments aim to make the station a more convenient and comfortable hub for passengers.

This innovative step highlights Indian Railways’ commitment to enhancing passenger experiences. The sleeping pods not only improve comfort but also set a benchmark for railway modernisation in India, promising to redefine train travel for millions of passengers.

SSRTS has forayed into the representation space last year.

Alliance DMC Jordan appoints SSR Reps as Representative in India

Jordan-based Alliance DMC Jordan, has entered into a strategic partnership with SSR Reps, a specialised division of SSR Travel Solutions, as its official representative in India.

This collaboration marks a key milestone for SSR Travel Solutions, adding Alliance DMC Jordan as the sixth distinguished brand in its Representation portfolio.

The partnership aims to enhance Alliance DMC Jordan’s reach in the Indian market by offering bespoke travel experiences, group tours, and seamless services tailored to Indian travellers eager to discover Jordan’s vibrant culture, historical treasures, and natural wonders.

Walid Ben Zaied, Business Development Manager, Alliance DMC Jordan, shared his excitement about the partnership, stating, “We are thrilled to collaborate with SSR Travel Solutions, a highly respected name in the Indian travel sector. Their expertise, market insights, and strong network make them the perfect partner to represent Jordan in India. Together, we are committed to creating memorable travel experiences and positioning Jordan as a top destination for Indian tourists.”

Sapneal Rao, CEO & Co-Founder of SSR Travel Solutions, also expressed his admiration for Jordan as a destination, “Jordan is a beautiful destination, rich in history and culture. From the ancient city of Petra to the serene Dead Sea and stunning Wadi Rum, every corner tells a story. Alliance DMC is the perfect partner to showcase this captivating experience to Indian travellers with their expertise and commitment to excellence. Through this partnership, we are confident more travellers will discover Jordan’s timeless beauty and vibrant traditions.”

This alliance further solidifies SSR Reps’ reputation as a reliable partner for international travel brands seeking to establish and grow their presence in India. The partnership reflects a shared commitment to innovation, excellence, and delivering world-class travel solutions to Indian travellers.

 

Air Cairo appoints Aeroprime Group as GSA

Aeroprime Group has been appointed as the Exclusive Passenger GSA for Air Cairo. This partnership underscores the trust that leading airlines place in Aeroprime’s capabilities and highlights the potential for expanding connectivity from India to Air Cairo’s extensive network.

Aeroprime Group will manage all aspects of Air Cairo’s operations, including sales, marketing, and the promotion of the airline’s route network and fare offerings. This collaboration marks a significant milestone for Aeroprime Group, enhancing Air Cairo’s visibility in the Indian market and supporting its global expansion plans. By promoting connectivity from India to Air Cairo’s network, Aeroprime Group aims to broaden their market reach and provide Indian travelers with seamless access to numerous destinations across Europe and Africa.

Abhishek Goyal, Executive Director of Aeroprime Group, stated, “We are excited to welcome Air Cairo among our esteemed partners. Air Cairo has an extensive network to Europe, allowing Indian travelers to connect to multiple destinations in Germany, Italy, Spain, and more via Egypt. We are confident that this collaboration will enhance the travel sector in the region and offer greater flexibility, choice, and comfort to all travelers. Through this partnership, we aim to deliver outstanding value for Air Cairo’s expansion strategy and create exceptional travel experiences tailored to meet diverse needs across travel segments and destinations.’’

Air Cairo operates a modern fleet of 37 Aircraft servicing numerous destinations across the Middle East, Asia, Africa, and Europe. Its extensive network includes over 50 cities across Europe, with more than 10 cities in Germany and Italy, along with multiple cities in France, Spain, Turkey, and beyond. This partnership will enable Indian travelers to access a variety of destinations within Air Cairo’s network, facilitating seamless travel experiences to popular locations worldwide. Additionally, Air Cairo has an extensive code-share partnership with Egypt Air that further enhances its service offerings and network.

Since its inception in 2003, Air Cairo has been expanding its network significantly. With the recent addition of a modern Airbus fleet, the airline reinforces its dedication to providing world-class comfort and convenience. As a prominent airline in Egypt, it is focused on ensuring safe travel while enhancing connectivity and accessibility for its valued passengers.

CPT. Ahmed Shanan, Chairman & CEO of Air Cairo, remarked, “We are delighted to collaborate with Aeroprime Group in India to offer our services to a broad spectrum of travellers from the region and beyond. We are confident that Aeroprime Group’s expertise and credibility in the region will enable us to broaden our reach while offering cost-effective travel options as we expand our presence in the Indian market.”

With Malaysia extending free-visa entry to Indians, this deal will work as an advantage for ICICI Bank cardholders.

Malaysia Airlines inks strategic deal with ICICI Bank to offer exclusive privileges for cardholders

Malaysia Airlines has entered into an exclusive partnership with ICICI Bank, offering cardholders up to 15% off on flight bookings made directly with the airline via its online booking platforms and app.

ICICI Bank customers can enjoy exclusive offers when booking with their credit or debit cards on the Malaysia Airlines website, and will be able to redeem the offer by using the promo code MHICICI24 for bookings made until May 15, 2025, valid for travel until September 30, 2025.

To highlight the special partnership between Malaysia Airlines’ long-standing relationship with world-renowned English football club Manchester United, all Manchester United ICICI cardholders can enjoy an additional discount on Economy Class fares.

Using the promo code ICICIMU24, football fans can celebrate their love for the sport by flying with Malaysia Airlines and experiencing unparalleled savings and worldclass hospitality. This offer is valid for bookings until November 20, 2025, making it the ultimate way to combine passion for travel with the thrill of the game. This collaboration hones in on the benefits of banking cards in today’s travel landscape, offering convenience, security, budgeting tools, rewards, and global access to enhance the travel experience.

Dersenish Aresandiran Chief Commercial Officer of Airlines, Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG), said, “We are excited to collaborate with ICICI Bank to offer exclusive benefits to their valued cardholders. This collaboration underscores our commitment to delivering unparalleled value and exceptional travel experiences, while reinforcing Malaysia Airlines’ position as a leader in aviation and hospitality connecting to Asia and Beyond. We invite ICICI Bank cardholders to take full advantage of this special offer and embark on memorable journeys with Malaysia Airlines.”

In addition to the partnership, Malaysia Airlines invites travellers to now take advantage of Early Bird Exclusive Fares, with return flights starting at just INR 18,999 (all-inclusive). Whether you’re dreaming of soaring to the iconic Petronas Twin Towers in Kuala Lumpur, immersing yourself in the vibrant energy of Sydney, or exploring the modern marvels of Singapore, Malaysia Airlines offers the gateway to these destinations. This special offer is available for bookings made by December 24, 2024, for travel between February 1, and November 30, 2025.

Together with these, travellers from India can take advantage of the airlines popular Bonus Side Trip (BST) program providing complimentary flight tickets to domestic Malaysia destinations. This unique offering allows passengers flying beyond Malaysia to explore two destinations for the price of one. With options to discover seven vibrant domestic cities, including Langkawi, Johor Bahru, and Penang, passengers can immerse themselves in Malaysia’s rich cultural heritage, breathtaking landscapes, and diverse cuisines. Coupled with Malaysia’s visa-free policy for Indian travellers, this programme transforms travel into an enriching, multi-city adventure.

As part of its ongoing efforts to redefine premium travel, Malaysia Airlines continues to offer seamless booking processes and enhanced customer benefits, making world-class travel more accessible and affordable for Indian travellers.

Women Traveller is a growing segment of travel.

Atlys’ 2025 Travel Trends forecasts 30% surge in solo female travel

Atlys, a visa processing platform, has released its Travel Trends report, encompassing the key patterns that shaped travel in 2024 and offering a glimpse into emerging themes for 2025. Drawing from extensive data across its platform, the report highlights the evolving priorities of travellers and the broader shifts in the global travel landscape.

The year 2024 saw a steady resurgence in outbound travel, building on the momentum of 2023. Travellers sought meaningful experiences, with affordability and sustainability driving decisions. Cultural exploration, solo adventures, and wellness retreats gained prominence, reflecting a growing focus on personal enrichment and mental well-being.

Adventure tourism and event-driven travel, such as major sports tournaments and global music tours, continued to draw significant interest, showcasing a shift toward immersive journeys.

Mohak Nahta, CEO and Founder of Atlys, said, “Tourism continues to grow year after year, and 2025 is shaping up to be a year of meaningful travel. People aren’t just visiting destinations: they’re seeking deeper connections through hidden gems, local cuisines, and transformative adventures. This shift toward more enriching journeys is redefining how we experience the world. We, at Atlys, are committed to helping travellers navigate this evolution, making exploration seamless and memorable.”

Key Travel Trends Shaping 2025
Solo Women Travel: In 2025, solo female travel is set to become a defining trend, reflecting a growing focus on empowerment, personal growth, and exploration. Atlys data reveals that 30% of solo visa applications in 2024 came from women travellers, with projections indicating a 37% increase in 2025. Millennials and Gen Z women dominate this trend, accounting for nearly 70% of solo female travellers aged between their 20s and 40s. The most popular destinations for solo female travelers on the Atlys platform include Bali, Thailand, and Japan, known for their safety, affordability, and immersive cultural experiences. The rise of women-only travel groups and online communities has further fueled this shift toward independent travel, providing women with the confidence to explore the world on their own terms.

Asia’s Tourism Boom: As Asia strengthens its position as a global tourism hub, destinations like Thailand, Japan, and Vietnam, Indonesia are set to witness significant growth in 2025. Thailand is targeting 40 million international visitors, supported by expanded visa-free policies, increased flight connectivity, and its ongoing efforts to legalize casinos, which could boost tourist arrivals during the low season. Japan is expected to draw 28 million visitors, with Expo 2025 in Osaka anticipated to attract 3.5 million international attendees, showcasing its global appeal. Vietnam and Indonesia, with its affordability, rich cultural heritage, and unspoiled natural beauty, continue to gain popularity among travellers.

The Rise of Wellness Escapes and Slow Travel: Travellers are prioritizing wellness-focused trips, with destinations such as Bali, and Taiwan offering yoga retreats, meditation programs, and holistic health escapes. The rising trend of “slow travel” has encouraged longer stays in culturally immersive settings, where travellers can explore local traditions and reconnect with nature.

Trailblazer Hotels: Travellers are increasingly drawn to unique accommodations that blend comfort with cultural immersion. The global boutique hotel market, valued at USD 25.04 billion in 2023, is projected to grow at a CAGR of 7.1% through 2030, reflecting rising demand for properties that offer more than just a place to stay. Countries like Italy, Japan, Morocco, and South Africa captivate visitors with boutique riads, traditional ryokans, and vineyard retreats that reflect the lifestyle and traditions of the region. Many of these properties also provide local activities, such as cooking classes, guided cultural tours, or craft workshops, creating a deeper connection to the destination.
Adventure Travel: Adventure tourism is set to thrive in 2025, as travellers increasingly seek immersive and adrenaline-packed experiences. Destinations like Norway, renowned for its Arctic expeditions, and Peru, famous for treks through pristine wilderness such as the Inca Trail, are expected to draw significant interest. Similarly, Australia, celebrated for its vast national parks and unique wildlife, continues to attract adventure enthusiasts. These offbeat experiences reflect a growing global trend toward experiential travel that fosters deeper connections with nature and the environment.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Destinations: 2024 saw a noticeable shift, with travellers increasingly seeking offbeat locations over traditional tourist hotspots. This trend is set to continue in 2025, with more people opting for hidden gems that promise unique cultural and natural experiences. Destinations like Slovenia, Laos, and the Faroe Islands are gaining recognition for their authenticity and charm, offering unspoiled beauty and meaningful interactions with local communities.

Pop Culture Pilgrimages: Travel inspired by pop culture is expected to thrive in 2025, as fans continue to plan trips around their favorite movies, shows, and music events. Popular series and influencer-led travel content are fueling excitement for destinations, encouraging travellers to explore local cuisines, traditions, and unique experiences tied to the regions featured. These journeys allow fans to immerse themselves in the worlds they admire, seamlessly blending entertainment with cultural discovery for a truly memorable experience. According to Atlys, there has been a significant surge in visa interest for destinations linked to global media phenomena, with a notable example being Singapore’s Disney Cruise, which is predicted to see a 27.12% rise in demand in 2025.

Nature’s Greatest Shows: Natural spectacles will continue to captivate travellers in 2025, offering extraordinary opportunities for awe and inspiration. Destinations like Iceland and Norway, renowned for the Aurora Borealis, and Egypt, with its prime locations for witnessing solar eclipses, are expected to see a surge in interest. Bioluminescent beaches in Puerto Rico and the Maldives are also drawing visitors with their magical glow. These journeys offer a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural exploration, creating visually stunning and meaningful experiences. According to Atlys data, demand for visas to destinations famous for their natural wonders is on the rise, with Iceland predicted to see an 18.37% increase and Egypt a remarkable 43% increase in 2025.

Culinary Tourism: Culinary tourism is rapidly growing, with the market projected to expand at a CAGR of 7.78% between 2024 and 2031. Iconic events like Italy’s Truffle Festival, Thailand’s Songkran Food Festival, and the Cheese Festival in France are drawing travellers eager to explore local flavors and traditions. Destinations such as Japan, renowned for its sushi and ramen, and Turkey, celebrated for its baklava and traditional meze, are also gaining traction. Social media platforms, especially Instagram, have fueled this trend by showcasing vibrant food festivals and unique dining experiences, making gastronomy a key driver of travel decisions for 2025.

Shifting Demographics and Preferences:
Indian travellers, a critical segment for Atlys, exhibited unique preferences in 2024 that are shaping 2025 trends:
Youthful Wanderlust: 60.74% of Atlys users in 2024 were under 35, demonstrating Gen Z’s and millennials’ dominance in travel.

Increased Mobility: Business and leisure travel hybrid (bleisure) saw significant growth, with 24% of travellers opting for extended stays to explore beyond work commitments.

The growing middle class and the emergence of tier 2 and tier 3 cities paved the way for more international travellers seeking authentic, budget-friendly travel experiences abroad.

Cities that travelled the most: Bangalore lead the way, with Delhi and Mumbai following.

Looking ahead, travel will continue to evolve with a focus on personalization and convenience. As technological advancements streamline the planning process, travellers will benefit from more efficient, tailored experiences.