Sopa Lodges, one of East Africa’s most renowned safari lodge chains, has announced the appointment of Global Destinations as its official marketing and sales representation company in India. This strategic partnership aims to introduce and enhance Sopa Lodges’ brand presence in the Indian market, offering Indian travellers unparalleled safari experiences across Kenya and Tanzania. Sopa Lodges, with its properties located in some of Africa’s most iconic wildlife destinations, has been a pioneer in offering authentic safari experiences. With this collaboration, Indian travellers will now have better access to these unforgettable wildlife encounters, breathtaking landscapes, and world-class hospitality. “We are thrilled to partner with Global Destinations to introduce the beauty and exclusivity of Sopa Lodges to the Indian market,” said Kennedy Ayoti, Chief Operating Officer, East Africa. “India is a rapidly growing market for safari tourism, and we believe that through Global Destinations’ expertise and extensive network, we will be able to provide Indian travellers with extraordinary safari experiences that immerse them in the stunning natural beauty and wildlife of East Africa.” Global Destinations, a leading marketing and sales representation company, has been at the forefront of promoting premium travel experiences for over 15 years. The company is dedicated to bringing some of the world’s finest travel brands to the Indian market, and this collaboration with Sopa Lodges adds a prestigious name to its portfolio. “We are honoured to represent Sopa Lodges in India,” said Pranav Kapadia, Founder and Director, Global Destinations. “Sopa Lodges offers a unique blend of luxury, sustainability, and an authentic African safari experience. As Indian travellers increasingly seek experiential travel, we are excited to introduce Sopa Lodges as the go-to destination for unforgettable wildlife adventures in East …

Enhancing comfort and convenience for Tamil Nadu customers to Hong Kong and beyond Hong Kong’s home carrier Cathay Pacific has announced the introduction of a Premium Economy cabin on flights from Chennai to Hong Kong. This underscores Cathay Pacific’s commitment to investing in not only its network, but also its customer experience. The airline will operate its state-of-the-art Airbus A350-900 aircraft, featuring Business, Premium Economy, and Economy cabins, to cater to diverse traveller preferences. Anand Yedery, Regional Head of Customer Travel and Lifestyle, Cathay said, “We are excited to introduce our Premium Economy cabin to the Chennai market. This addition reflects our dedication to offering customers greater comfort and choice. Chennai is a key destination for us, and our focus is on delivering unparalleled service and travel experiences. Travellers’ needs have evolved over time. In the past, there was not an option between Business and Economy classes, but with the introduction of our Premium Economy cabin, travellers can opt for extra comfort and personalised services, especially on medium- and long-haul flights. Our aim is to enhance the air travel experience for our customers.” Cathay Pacific’s Premium Economy cabin redefines comfort and sophistication, offering thoughtfully designed seats with enhanced recline, extra legroom, and ergonomic headrests for unparalleled relaxation. Features include full-length calf rests, leather-padded footrests, and larger meal tables that enhance work or and dining. For added convenience, personalised storage spaces keep essentials within easy reach. Customers can also enjoy Disney+ Originals along with a refreshed user interface, ensuring an immersive experience that sets a new standard for air travel. Furthermore, the airline will be increasing its flight frequencies from Chennai to Hong Kong. From 2 January to 1 March 2025, …

Tamarind Global, India’s leading destination and event management company, has just launched its all-new luxury fleet, uplifting its ground transportation solutions. The upgrade will help Tamarind Global to offer signature ground commute experiences for both corporate and leisure travellers. The new ground transport fleet includes the Maruti Suzuki Invicto, a car known as a seamless package entailing luxury, technology, and efficiency. Designed with a traveller-comfort-first approach, the new fleet features vehicles with roomy interiors, luxurious seating for up to seven passengers, cutting-edge climate control systems, and state-of-the-art infotainment features, for wholesome and enjoyable commutes. Commenting on the launch of the new fleet, Louis D’Souza, Director, Tamarind Global said, “We are excited to launch the new fleet of vehicles, ready to elevate our customers’ travel experience. Ideal for scenic road trips, immaculate business travel, family sojourns, and more, our new luxurious fleet ensures every journey is unforgettably safe and smooth.” The vehicles in Tamarind Global’s fleet are driven by a team of professional chauffeurs. Always courteous, well-groomed, punctual, well versed in routes, and attentive to client needs, they exemplify the company’s commitment to delivering exceptional client service. This latest addition to Tamarind Global’s portfolio highlights the company’s assurance of offering innovative and luxurious services. By integrating new-age vehicles into its fleet, Tamarind Global continues to set new standards in customer experience.  

The world’s steepest cable car started operating from 14th December 2024. The new direct connection between Stechelberg and Mürren was officially opened a day before as part of a VIP opening ceremony. At the same time, the first section of the cable car between Mürren and Birg will go into operation. It marks the completion of the first major construction phase of the SCHILTHORNBAHN 20XX project: the opening of the new direct connection between Stechelberg and Mürren. It is the steepest cable car in the world with a gradient of 159.4 per cent. The classic aerial cableway connects the valley floor with the car-free mountain village in just four minutes via the vertical walls of the Mürrenfluh. It covers a height of 775 metres on a journey of almost 1194 metres. The two cable cars from Carvatech in Oberwies, Austria, have space for 85 people or 6.8 tonnes of cargo. 800 people per hour can be transported at full capacity. A striking feature is the very long suspension arm of 11 metres, which was essential due to the extreme gradient. The AURO system (Autonomous Ropeway Operation) aerial cableway with constant monitoring by cameras and sensors enables autonomous operation without personnel inside the cable cars and stations. A fully automated loading robot takes care of freight logistics. Transportation of luggage and cargo are synchronised with the passengers in a container attached underneath the cable car. Grand opening On Friday, 13th December 2024, the cable car was officially opened in the presence of over 600 guests. The lively celebration, hosted by Monika Erb, took place in the new Stechelberg valley station. In addition to the official opening ceremony and rides on the …

SKÅL International India, the premier global organisation for travel and tourism professionals, has announced that its SKÅL India National Congress 2025 will take place in Mumbai from 12 to 14 September, 2025. This highly anticipated event will bring together key stakeholders from the travel, tourism, and hospitality industries to foster collaboration, exchange innovative ideas, and celebrate the spirit of camaraderie that defines SKÅL. Under the thought-provoking theme of ‘Future Forward: Tourism in an Evolving World’ the SKÅL India National Congress 2025 will explore the opportunities and challenges shaping the global travel and tourism landscape. With sustainability, technology, and resilience at the forefront of discussions, the event aims to explore actionable solutions to drive growth while preserving cultural and environmental heritage. Announcing the Congress, Dr Mukesh Batra, President, SKÅL International, Mumbai South, said “Mumbai has always been a gateway to India’s vibrant tourism and hospitality industry, and it is an honour for our city to host the prestigious SKÅL India National Congress 2025. This event is a testament to Mumbai’s unique ability to blend tradition with modernity, offering an inspiring platform for industry leaders to connect and collaborate. We look forward to welcoming delegates from across the country and the globe to experience the warmth, energy, and hospitality that define our great city.”

Strikin, a U.S.-based global entertainment company has expressed its sincere gratitude to the Commissioner of Tourism and Patel Ramesh Garu, Chairman of Tourism, Telangana, for the opportunity to present its transformative entertainment vision for the state. In collaboration with Cirque Éloize, a renowned Canadian entertainment company, Strikin aims to position Telangana as a global destination in the entertainment sector. This partnership underscores a shared commitment to redefining entertainment experiences and elevating Telangana’s global standing. Strikin also unveiled its second initiative, Theme Team Entertainment, a theme-based entertainment concept inspired by iconic destinations like Universal Studios and Disney World. This state-of-the-art venue will be the first of its kind in Hyderabad and across India, setting a new benchmark in the Indian entertainment landscape. During the presentation, Strikin recognised the synergy and alignment of vision with the Commissioner and Telangana’s leadership. The company expressed eagerness to initiate these transformative projects, which promise to significantly boost Telangana’s profile as a hub for world-class entertainment. This announcement comes at a pivotal moment as the Telangana Government recently introduced its first-ever comprehensive Tourism Policy, ‘Telangana Tourism Policy 2025-30’, in the Legislative Assembly. The policy aims to generate three lakh jobs, making this initiative highly relevant and timely.

Rikant Pittie co-founded EaseMyTrip in 2008 and has been instrumental in its growth and success over the years With over 16 years of experience in the travel and tourism industry, he has a deep understanding of market trends and customer needs EaseMyTrip.com, one of India’s leading online travel tech platforms, has announced the appointment of Rikant Pittie as its Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Co-founder. In his new role, Rikant will lead the company’s strategic initiatives, drive innovation, and enhance customer experiences to further strengthen EaseMyTrip’s position in the industry. Rikant Pittie co-founded EaseMyTrip in 2008 and has been instrumental in its growth and success over the years. With over 16 years of experience in the travel and tourism industry, he has a deep understanding of market trends and customer needs. Under his leadership, EaseMyTrip has achieved significant growth, reflecting its commitment to a customer-first approach. “The travel industry is at a transformative juncture where technology and personalisation are redefining how people explore the world.” Speaking on his appointment, Rikant Pittie, CEO, Co-founder, EaseMyTrip said, “The travel industry is at a transformative juncture where technology and personalisation are redefining how people explore the world. At EaseMyTrip, our mission goes beyond simply offering an enhanced travel experience. It is about setting new benchmarks. We are dedicated to pioneering innovative solutions that empower travellers globally. I am both honoured and thrilled to take on this role and look forward to continuing the company’s journey.” Rikant has also been recognised for his exceptional contributions to the business landscape, having won the prestigious Fortune India 40 Under 40 and Entrepreneur India’s Entrepreneurship of the Year in Service Business – Travel Category. Notably, Rikant Pittie …

IndiGo has announced new domestic routes, establishing direct flight connections between Bhubaneswar and Dehradun, and Dehradun and Srinagar, effective 6 February, 2025. These additions to IndiGo’s network will improve connectivity and offer passengers a wider range of travel choices.

Expanding its presence in North India, ITC Hotels announced the opening 81-room Welcomhotel in Delhi. The hotel is conveniently located near Delhi Airport. It features modern amenities and expansive event spaces for weddings, social gatherings, and conferences.

According to Cirium, an aviation analytics firm, Indian airlines have seen a significant influx of new aircraft in 2024, with 97 deliveries already completed and 10 more expected. Alternatively, Cirium’s data suggests a slight decrease in 2025, with 86 new aircraft projected.