While digital ID options for air travellers have already been rolled out by several global airlines, the adoption among Indian carriers is still in its early stages. However, steps are being taken in this direction. Hazel Jain Convenience and speed are the top priorities for passengers and digital identity (ID)and …

In a bid to lure foreign tourists to Indian shores during the summer months, and to project India as a 365-day destination, the Union Ministry of Tourism has launched a new initiative, called ‘Coolcation’. TT Bureau Manisha Saxena, Director General, Ministry of Tourism (MOT), Government of India, has revealed that …

There is nothing wrong with offering run-of-the-mill itineraries to the new traveller, but one needs to keep innovating, fashioning something unique to create fresh demand. TRAVTALK speaks to a few agents creating a niche with their own ideas. Hazel Jain ‘It is better to fail in originality than succeed in …

Suman Billa has returned to MOT after a gap of 4 years as Additional Secretary replacing Rakesh Verma. He moved on from MOT in 2019 after taking up a role in UNWTO. TT Bureau Suman Billa has returned to Ministry of Tourism as Additional Secretary in place of Rakesh Verma, …

While India hasn’t traditionally been a luxury destination for the Middle East travellers, it is coming up as an exotic one with its vibrant culture, ancient traditions, and new bespoke experiences such as private dining and tours. India’s transformation into a luxury escape may not be complete just yet, but …

Kolkata is yet to see a direct international flight to Europe. It’s high time the government and aviation stakeholders devise a plan to bring the City of Joy on the international aviation map. Surbhi Sharma Kolkata, the northeastern city of India known for its history, cuisine and Durga Puja celebrations, …

The Visa Section of the Italian Embassy in Mumbai seems to have taken a step in the right direction. TRAVTALK speaks to a few agents in Mumbai and Delhi to find out the ground situation. TT Bureau Many a time, agents are forced to suggest a different European destination to …

Amitabh Kant, G20 Sherpa, India, unveils a vision for India’s economic future at the launch of 7th edition of the WTTCII-Hotelivate State Ranking Survey 2024 in New Delhi recently. Janice Alyosius Addressing participants at the awards ceremony of the 7th edition of the WTTCII-Hotelivate State Ranking Survey 2024, Amitabh Kant, …

In the age of familiarisation trips, agent reconnaissance seems to be a lost art. Or is it? We speak to key operators who continue to invest in product by exploring new destinations by themselves. Hazel Jain Given the premium nature of services that the travel agents and tour operators provide, …

Amitabh Kant, G20 Sherpa, India, claims that with its unique offerings and transformational change at a population scale would make India a brand for sustainable tourism in coming years. Nisha Verma At the recent Travel For LiFE: Tourism Sustainability Summit 2024, Amitabh Kant, G20 Sherpa, India, speaking as the Chief …