To connect additional 26 European cities through this deal Air India and Lufthansa Group have agreed to build on their longstanding partnership, which sees Air India enter into a new codeshare agreement with Austrian Airlines, as well as expand the existing codeshare agreements between Air India, Lufthansa, and Swiss International Air Lines (SWISS). The expanded partnership significantly boosts flight options and connectivity for travellers between the Indian Subcontinent and Europe with the addition of close to 60 codeshare routes operated by the four airlines across 12 Indian and 26 European cities. The expanded agreements increase the total number of codeshare…
Author: admin
Himachal Pradesh’s Wildflower Hall, an iconic colonial-era property nestled in serene deodar forests near Shimla, is set for a major transition. The state government has decided to lease the heritage hotel to a reputed hospitality brand, aiming to boost tourism revenue while preserving its historical and ecological integrity. Originally built as the residence of Lord Kitchener, the property’s breathtaking views and 8,000-feet elevation make it a prime destination for luxury travellers. The decision comes as Himachal Pradesh faces economic strain, prompting the government to seek private investment in heritage tourism. Officials emphasise that the leasing process will prioritise hospitality…
India’s domestic travel sector is set for expansion with new airports in Noida and Navi Mumbai easing congestion and stabilising flight prices. However, high hotel costs remain a challenge for travellers. Amid these changes, online travel giant Yatra is shifting its strategy, prioritising corporate travel over direct consumer bookings. This move aligns with the growing demand for efficient, tech-driven business travel solutions. Corporate travel now accounts for 60% of Yatra’s business, signaling a shift toward a more stable and scalable revenue stream. The company is leveraging technology to enhance corporate booking experiences, aiming for long-term growth. As India’s travel…
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has extended its visa-on-arrival facility to Indian passport holders with residence permits or valid visas from six additional countries—Singapore, Japan, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand, and Canada. This expansion is expected to ease travel for Indian nationals and enhance UAE’s position as a global travel hub. Previously, this facility was available only to Indian citizens holding valid visas or residence permits from the United States, the United Kingdom, and European Union member states. With the latest update, more Indian travelers can now access UAE entry points through a simplified visa process. Eligibility and Requirements To…
Atlys, a digital visa services provider, has expanded into the UK market by acquiring Artionis, a UK-based visa services company, in an all-cash deal. This acquisition adds 40 specialists to Atlys’ team, operating across offices in London, Manchester, and Edinburgh. Atlys plans to double its UK headcount to 80 employees by the end of the year to better serve a diverse traveller base in the UK, where 36% of the population either hold non-UK passports or prefer self-service visa solutions. Artionis is known for its exclusive rights in processing UK-to-Russia visas, an area requiring precision and specialised expertise. By integrating…
Cox & Kings is expanding its footprint with the launch of 10 new franchise locations in key cities across the country. This move is part of a broader strategy to meet the rising demand for outbound, domestic, and inbound travel services. Under the new ownership of Wilson & Hughes Ltd., Cox & Kings is focusing on innovation, digital transformation, and customer-centric travel solutions. The company plans to establish 300 franchises, preferred agents, and holiday clubs across India and globally over the next two years. The expansion aims to blend advanced AI-powered itinerary planning with personalized customer service, providing a seamless…
Royal Caribbean has revealed the name and debut line-up of the third Icon Class vacation – Legend of the Seas. This revolutionary Icon Class will sail year-round from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, starting in November 2026 on 6-night Western Caribbean and 8-night Southern Caribbean vacations, including visits to Royal Caribbean’s Perfect Day at CocoCay in The Bahamas. Prior to her Caribbean debut, Legend will offer summer adventures in Europe with 7-night Western Mediterranean vacations from Barcelona beginning August 2026. Legend’s debut line-up will soon open on Royal Caribbean’s website, and Crown & Anchor Society loyalty members will have special access to…
In a major infrastructure push, India is set to build its first offshore airport near Mumbai, on an artificial island close to the upcoming Vadhvan seaport along the country’s western coast. Modelled after Hong Kong International Airport and Osaka’s Kansai International Airport—both situated on reclaimed land—the project marks a significant step in India’s aviation expansion. According to The Financial Express, the initiative has received initial approvals from the central environment and defence departments, along with the Maharashtra state government. Feasibility studies, involving the Airports Authority of India, are now set to commence, after which the total investment required for the…
The Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Finland-based organisation ‘V Real’ at Samatva Bhavan in Bhopal Niwas. The agreement was signed in the presence of Chief Minister Mohan Yadav and Finland’s Ambassador for India, Kimmo Lahdevirta in Bhopal. On this occasion, Chief Minister Yadav said that the MP Tourism Board and Finnish organisation ‘V Real’ discussed the application of modern technology at tourist sites, historical heritage locations, and museums in the state. He said the virtual tour initiative will allow people interested in tourism, history, and culture to explore the rich heritage and glorious…
In a significant effort to boost tourism through a nationwide promotional campaign, the Department of Tourism, Jammu & Kashmir, participated in the India International Travel Mart (IITM) Kolkata. On the sidelines of IITM Kolkata, a team from J&K Tourism, led by Additional Secretary engaged extensively with the media fraternity of Kolkata, and held meetings with leading travel trade operators from the eastern region. The team showcased the immense tourism potential of Jammu & Kashmir, a region blessed with unparalleled natural beauty—ranging from vast meadows and lush forests to snow-capped mountains, pristine lakes, and breathtaking valleys. The delegation included Owais Mushtaq…