Jetwing Hotels, a pioneer in the Sri Lankan hospitality industry for over five decades, remains dedicated to fostering positive change for people and the planet. In line with this commitment, Jetwing Hotels has invested over one million USD to expand its solar photovoltaic (PV) installations by 1.6 megawatts (MW) by the end of July 2024. Installation work commenced in December 2023 and has made significant progress, currently standing at 65% completion. Jetwing Hotels has been at the forefront of integrating renewable energy into its hotel operations since 2010, when a 20-kilowatt (kW) system was installed specifically for guest room lighting at Jetwing Blue in Negombo. In the past 14 years, Jetwing Hotels has strategically implemented solar PV systems amounting to 925kW across its various properties along with the corporate office (Jetwing House) in Colombo which features its own solar PV system with a capacity of 40kW. In 2023, Jetwing Hotels generated 1,069-megawatt hours (MWh) of solar energy across its properties; equivalent to providing power for 13,490 households and mitigating the release of 608 metric tons of carbon dioxide to the atmosphere. The forthcoming solar PV system installations will enhance the current capacity up to 2.6 MW, achieved by incorporating new installations and expanding existing systems. Jetwing Hotels currently meets 8% of their electricity requirement through solar PV installations. The new expansion will triple that contribution, resulting in 24% of their total electricity usage being covered through solar power. While most systems are roof-mounted, certain properties of Jetwing are embracing innovative approaches to PV installations. At Jetwing Vil Uyana, nestled in the heart of Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle, and Jetwing Kaduruketha, situated amidst the serene countryside of Wellawaya, solar PV systems …

Fortune Hotels, a member of ITC’s hotel group announced the launch of Fortune Statue of Unity Ekta Nagar, a shining new addition set to offer unmatched comfort and hospitality close to Gujarat’s latest attraction, alongside the scenic views of river Narmada. Just minutes away from the Ekta Nagar railway station, this 144-room all vegetarian hotel, promises an extraordinary journey into the world of fine hospitality. With comforting interiors that open into tranquil river vistas from most rooms, Fortune Statue of Unity Ekta Nagar also has lush green lawns and ample open spaces to soak in the spirit of the place. The hotel offers an array of features to enhance the guest experience be it the wide range of premium room amenities, 24-hour room service option to satiate your midnight food cravings or the high speed complimentary wi-fi that lets you stream your favourite web-series whilst your stay with us. Additionally, guests can indulge in a vegetarian food soiree at the Rainbow Restaurant, where vegetarian cuisines from seven inspired culinary mores await you such that every meal becomes a treasure trove of flavours and memories. Fortune Statue of Unity Ekta Nagar will also become an address to reckon with for intimate gatherings to corporate events. The hotel will soon provide versatile banquet facilities ideal for hosting weddings, birthdays, meetings, presentations, and brainstorming sessions. Fortune’s dedicated team will ensure that every event is executed seamlessly, leaving a lasting impression on guests and attendees alike. Strategically located close to the many attractions in the SOU area, like the Narmada Maha Arti ghat, the Valley of Flowers (Bharat Van), the Cactus Garden, the Butterfly Garden, the Glow Park and many more the hotel is …

Following the implementation of e-pass regulations by Tamil Nadu for entry to Nilgiris and Kodaikanal, the tourist influx has seen a surge to Munnar, Wagamon, and other destinations in Idukki. Confirming the trend, Jitheesh Jose, Secretary, District Tourism Promotion Council, said 7,342 tourists visited Wagamon meadows while 6,854 tourists Munnar Botanical Garden on Saturday.

To empower B2B partners and transform them into certified ‘Experience Abu Dhabi Experts’, the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi launched the ‘Abu Dhabi Experts’ e-learning platform. The platform offers specialised content across nine comprehensive modules, covering various facets of Abu Dhabi’s tourism sector. These modules provide in-depth knowledge about the emirate’s rich culture and heritage, landmarks and attractions and accommodation options.

To exploit India’s vast potential in the tourism industry, Jagdeep Bhagat, President, TIA, said, “We are leaving no stone unturned to expand its outreach and make new members across India and abroad to unlock new horizons for tourism growth. TIA has reached 225 members, aim is to cross the 1,000 membership mark within this fiscal (2024-2025).”

Santosh Kumar, Country Manager, India, Booking.com, said, “Indian travellers are increasingly seeking unique experiences while travelling. One such experience is shopping, which is more than just an activity, but a gateway to the destination’s heritage and culture enabling travellers to make authentic connections with the places they visit and bring those memories back home. According to the company’s Travel Trends data for 2024, 43 per cent of Indian travellers stated that shopping had an impact on their destination decisions.”

With the hospitality sector in India experiencing a significant surge, Sebastien Bazin, CEO, Accor, said, “The country holds a strong place in Accor’s global vision, embodying not just a market, but a place of opportunity and growth. It’s impossible to ignore the immense potential that the country presents in the sector.”

Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy, UAE announces that the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) has a new unified tourist visa called “GCC Grand Tours,” which would allow travellers to visit all six Gulf countries and stay for over 30 days. This initiative aims to boost tourism and make travel across the GCC region more convenient. by simplifying travel across Gulf countries, with an estimated 128.7 million visitors by 2030.

As slow travel gains traction as a prominent travel trend, Agoda shares insights into the top Asian destinations ideal for prolonged stays. It showed Ahmedabad as the top slow travel destination in India and Asia to discover. The concept of slow travel advocates for a leisurely approach to exploration, encouraging visitors to extend their time at a destination.

Goa Tourism’s pavilion at ATM 2024 was the centre of activity, attracting buyers from around the globe. The pavilion provided a valuable opportunity for the co-exhibitors to showcase their offerings and forge valuable partnerships. From community-based projects to conservation efforts, the aim is to highlight the holistic approach that underpins the vision for sustainable tourism.