FICCI’s maiden Wedding Tourism Summit was held from May 25-26 in New Delhi. State governments and private stakeholders in attendance discussed opportunities in order to leverage India as a wedding destination. The first FICCI Wedding Tourism Summit witnessed as many as 30 exhibitors, including all major hotel chains in India, …

Park Plaza Noida has announced its rebranding as Radisson Noida, the first Radisson hotel to be inaugurated in Delhi-NCR. On this occasion, we speak to Raj Rana, Chief Executive Officer, South Asia, Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group, about this rebranding, Radisson Red, and much more. ANUPRIYA BISHNOI Q) Tell us about …

In an effort to stay relevant in the industry, Manoj Samuel, Director, Riya Travels, is providing ancillary services to clients apart from ticketing. Being in the travel industry for four decades, Riya Travels is an established name. Manoj Samuel, says, “We have created a bond with our clients, who trust …

Among the various business development plans of Qatar Airways, Group Chief Executive H.E. Akbar Al Baker shares that they will be starting a five-star airline in India. Excerpts from the interview. SHEHARA RIZLY Q) How is your investment in India coming along? We have not yet made a formal application, …

In its 25th year of operation, Minar Travels’ Managing Director H.S. Duggal is optimistic about the company’s new MICE and luxury division ELBON and Vilasa, respectively, and says they are focusing on Asia this year. Minar Travels has carved a niche for itself in the Indian tourism industry over the …

After doing the groundwork for the Indian market, JA Resorts and Hotels is looking forward to a good season ahead and expects an increase in Indian numbers, especially for their property in the Maldives. JA Resorts and Hotels are pioneers of hospitality in Dubai, with properties spanning the Indian Ocean …

Oman Air has enabled the pre-purchase of extra luggage space and extra legroom, as well as lounge services at Muscat International Airport when booking on its website. In order to provide more convenience for guests, Oman Air has enabled the pre-purchase of extra luggage and extra legroom. The front and …

The Lemon Tree Hotel Company recently opened their twin properties–Lemon Tree and Red Fox Hotel in Sector-60, Gurugram. With the opening of these twin hotels, Lemon Tree Hotel Company’s inventory in Gurgaon is now 530 rooms. “The reason why we chose the location because the catchment area here is Golf …

Zhang Mingchi, Deputy Director General, Shandong Tourism Development Commission, aims to double the number of Indian arrivals to Shandong this year. NISHA VERMA from SHANDONG The Shandong region in Eastern China recently played host to Indian agents in association with Shandong Airlines, where they showcased major attractions of the region …

Maharashtra tourism department is encouraging farmers to develop their lands for tourists looking for farm-stays, in keeping with its ‘Mahabhraman Scheme’. HAZEL JAIN The Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC) recently organised a conference on National Agri Tourism on the occasion of the tenth World Agri Tourism Day in Mumbai. The …