In-the-Issue

‘Agents are first point of contact’

Yummi Talwar, COO – South Asia, VFS Global, highlights the role of travel agents in India’s travel ecosystem, noting that they frequently serve as the first point of contact for travellers seeking visa-related guidance. Recognising their contribution, VFS Global recently conducted a six-city roadshow in India, aimed at deepening engagement …

Read More »

TIA membership up 2x in a year

TIA is redefining India’s tourism industry through unity, innovations and strategic partnerships. With over 400 members across 80 cities, it is focused on the growth of tourism while championing collaborations across industry verticals. As the industry rebounds post-pandemic, the alliance aims to foster holistic, sustainable and inclusive growth for all …

Read More »

RezLive adds travel insurance tool

RezLive is expanding its offerings to the Indian travel trade. With the addition of travel insurance and train booking services, plus advanced tools like AI-powered SmartMatch, the company aims to simplify travel planning and unlock revenue streams, making it a more powerful one-stop solution for travel professionals. Surbhi Sharma Catering …

Read More »

Cross eyes 40% rise in Indian guests

Cross Hotels & Resorts sets its sights firmly on India with a dedicated 3-city Sales Mission, aimed at expanding its brand presence in the country and engaging the travel trade partners. Creating tailored experiences for Indian travellers, the hotel group is tapping into India’s booming outbound travel market through strategic …

Read More »

Sopa Lodges expands in India

Sopa Lodges’ growth strategy includes expansion and strengthening of its market presence in India with the help of its India representative – Global Destinations. Rosemary Muthoni, Director of Sales, Sopa Lodges, speaks exclusively with TRAVTALK. Hazel Jain Sopa Lodges, a leading mid-range hotel chain in East Africa, is intensifying its …

Read More »

Spain’s focus on lesser-known regions

Since stepping into her role as Director of Spain’s Tourism Office in India in September 2024, Elena Orland has championed a dynamic strategy to deepen Spain’s connection with India. Elena’s focus is now on diversifying India’s travel palette and promoting lesser-known regions like Extremadura and Navarra. Hazel Jain Elena Orland, …

Read More »

2 new resorts open in Fiji

Brent Hill, Chief Executive Officer, Tourism Fiji, shares updates on Fiji, the new Loloma Hour sustainability programme and meaningful travel experiences that will take centre stage in 2025. Hazel Jain Fiji has been steadily engaging with the Indian market. How significant is India for Tourism Fiji’s growth strategy? Absolutely, India …

Read More »

‘Address basic issues first’: Pandian

India’s tourism sector is booming, yet critical challenges persist. Despite contributing 11% to the GDP, the industry struggles with basic amenities like clean toilets and high inter-state taxes. Pandian Kumaravel, MD, Cholan Tours, says that redressal of the issues can unlock India’s full tourism potential. Surbhi Sharma India’s tourism sector …

Read More »

TAAI recognises women in travel

TAAI celebrated International Women’s Day with the ‘Women of Wonder Awards 2025’, felicitating 75 women leaders from travel, hospitality and aviation sectors. Underscoring its commitment to empowering women, the association aims to double its membership, as it approaches its 75th anniversary next year. Surbhi Sharma Commemorating the International Women’s Day, …

Read More »