In-the-Issue

Tech-enabled tourism on the rise

Evident from the recent advent in smart, automated systems, technology will have a key role to play in the restart of tourism across countries, and we already see some green shoots with the digitalisation of tourism services. Here are seven technologies that offer hope to our industry. Hazel Jain 3D …

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Pack your bags but stay safe!

The pandemic and its second wave have had a huge impact on the travel and hospitality industry. From social distancing in flights, localised lockdowns to contact tracing Apps, COVID-19 has indeed transformed the world of travel. Yatra.com enlists some of these trends. Over the years, the reasons for travel have …

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3 experts partner to launch Iskra

Iskra, which literally means spark or sparkle, has been founded on the principle of creating a spark for every event planned. Co-founded by three industry experts well-known in India’s events and hospitality industry – Birju Gariba, Hema Hariramani and Sunaina Singh – Iskra promises to shine ever so brightly. Hazel …

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A change of track for agents

Necessity is the mother of all inventions and it was this necessity that prompted many an outbound travel agent to branch out into domestic holidays. Fortunately, it was largely a smooth transition for many, with some help from Indiatourism, which is actively reaching out to this segment to promote India. …

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New minister, more focus on NE

PP Khanna, President, Association of Domestic Tour Operators of India (ADTOI), talks about working in coordination with the industry, the Ministry of Tourism, as well as other associations to boost domestic tourism. He also believes that the ministerial change for the Northeast would help promote tourism in the region. Nisha …

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If it’s golf, it’s definitely Thailand

Thailand continues to be a dream destination for golfers from all around the world. In a recent survey, more than 97% respondents reveal that they rate Thaland as a top-quality destination for a golfing break. The Thai Golf  Passport has also been launched in India to offer Indian golfers a …

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Travelport leaps into retailing

Travelport recently entered a strategic, long-term collaboration with Amazon Web Services (AWS) to use advanced cloud technology to accelerate the digital transformation of retailing in the travel industry. The move aims to make the travel booking process simpler and more modernised. Nisha Verma This collaboration will focus on optimising Travelport’s …

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A breed apart

‘There are some traits of a travel industry professional that other industries can learn from. Here are three learnings,’ says Abhik Dutta, Director, The Wanderers, Outdoor Wilderness & Learning and Colour Purple Events. I left a PSU job in 1998 to follow my passion for travel by co-founding The Wanderers. …

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The future is suddenly closer

Neliswa Nkani, Hub Head – MEISEA, South African Tourism, discusses the NTO’s tweaked strategy with some new focus areas as well as its renewed attention to bring in e-visas. South African Tourism is also playing an active role in ensuring that the costs to visit the country remain realistic despite …

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Ministerial shuffling raises hope

Jyoti Mayal, President, TAAI, is positive that the new ministers would accelerate decision making and that with cooperation between government and industry, a lot can be achieved. She also hopes that the Ministry’s focus shifts from Air India to the plight of the industry ever since the virus entered our …

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