Korea Tourism Organization, in collaboration with the Outbound Tour Operators Association of India, successfully hosted the Korea Tourism Roadshow in Mumbai on 14 February, 2025, reinforcing its commitment to the Indian travel trade and presenting key programs aimed at further boosting Indian tourist arrivals to South Korea. Mr. Myong Kil Yun, Regional Director – India & SAARC Countries, KTO, said: “South Korea’s growing popularity among Indian travellers is a testament to the strong partnership we share with the Indian travel trade. With evolving traveller preferences and increasing demand for unique experiences, we are committed to providing our partners with tailored support, from exclusive training programs to performance-based incentives.” Talking about the Roadshow in Mumbai, Mr. Himanshu Patil, President, OTOAI, said, “This partnership between OTOAI and KTO has the potential to significantly boost outbound tourism from India to Korea, unlocking opportunities for both travel operators and tourists. With the rising popularity of Korean entertainment in India and the increasing awareness of the country’s rich cultural heritage and unique culinary experiences, Indian tourists are showing greater interest in visiting Korea. Additionally, the growing popularity of Korean beauty products in the Indian market has led to an increase in enquiries for tours that include beauty experiences, further highlighting the diverse interests of Indian travellers. This roadshow was a great opportunity for our members to gain in-depth knowledge of Korea and enhancing their ability to create seamless travel experiences for their clients.” In addition to the MICE Support and Korea Premium Travel Consultant Program, KTO has unveiled the Designated Travel Agency Program, a strategic initiative under the K-Incentive Scheme 3.0, designed to recognize and support travel agencies actively promoting South Korea. Under this program, …

M/S Akama Hotel Limited, a hotel company based out of Kathmandu has announced today the opening of Ramada by Wyndham Kathmandu Dhumbarahi in Nepal under franchise with Wyndham Hotels & Resorts which is the world’s largest hotel franchising company with more than 9,200 hotels in 95+ countries. The Ramada by Wyndham Kathmandu Dhumbarahi hotel is centrally located in Dhumbarahi, which is just 5 kms away from Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. It is the entry point of international tourists coming to the country by air. Kathmandu, the capital city, known as city of temples and living goddess, attracts high tourists footfall to its 7 UNESCO world heritage sites including Pashupatinath Temple, Swayambhu Mahachaitya, and the Boudha Stupa temple, three durbar squares famous for its rich architecture; good infrastructure and approximately 28 kms away from Nagarkot which is one of the best spots for enjoying Himalayas view. The hotel sprawls over 1 acre of land with 108 contemporary rooms and interiors inspired by Tibetan and local Newari culture. The varied amenities at the hotel include an All Day Dining Restaurant, Coffee Shop, two Bars, Banquets and Meetings space, business centre, and wellness facilities like an Outdoor Infinity Pool, Spa, Sauna, Gift Shop and Fitness Centre. Dimitris Manikis, President, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts EMEA said, “The opening of our first ‘Ramada’ hotel in Kathmandu marks a significant milestone for Wyndham Hotels & Resorts in Nepal. As a globally recognized and trusted brand, Ramada by Wyndham brings a promise of quality, comfort, and exceptional hospitality to travelers worldwide. The Ramada by Wyndham Kathmandu Dhumbarahi seamlessly blends Tibetan and Newari-inspired design with state-of-the-art amenities, offering a unique and memorable experience. This hotel is strategically …

Honouring the winning athletes, 1600 Rudraksha trees were planted in the state of Uttarakhand Gulmohar seeds distributed to the athletes to carry back and plant in their home states across India Thomas Cook India is also the exclusive partner across accommodation, catering and transport (ACT) for the National Games – managing a 20,000-member contingent, including over 10,000 athletes, 5000 support staff and 3000 dignitaries Thomas Cook (India) Limited, India’s leading omnichannel travel services company, collaborated with the Uttarakhand Government for the pioneering Green Games initiative at the National Games 2025 in Uttarakhand. Through this innovative initiative, over 1,600 Rudraksha trees were planted in honour of the winning athletes at an expansive 2.77- hectare Sports Forest (Khel Van) near Maharana Pratap Sports College. Additionally, Gulmohar tree seeds were distributed to athletes to plant and nurture in their home states, thus extending the initiative’s impact across the length and breadth of India. This initiative was made possible through the vision and support of the Uttarakhand Government, the Indian Olympic Association, the National Games Secretary, Department of Sports in Uttarakhand and all stakeholders, ensuring that the National Games upheld the highest standards of organisation and sustainability. Additionally, the students from The Oasis – The Oberai School will ensure sustained care and maintenance of the planted trees. The Rudraksha tree holds deep spiritual and medicinal significance and thrives in Uttarakhand’s unique climate, while the Gulmohar tree, known for its adaptability across diverse terrain and weather conditions, acts as an excellent soil binder and shade provider nationwide. The launch event, held on February 12, 2025, witnessed the presence of esteemed dignitaries, including Shri Pushkar Singh Dhami, Chief Minister of Uttarakhand; Shri Subodh Uniyal, Forest Minister …

Jaipuria Institute of Management, Jaipur, successfully hosted the ‘Youth for India @ 2047’ International Youth Conference, an inspiring platform that brought together industry leaders, young achievers, and researchers to shape India’s vision for 2047. The conference was graced by Devina Mehra, Chairperson, Managing Director and Founder of First Global, and recipient of Fortune India’s Most Powerful Women 2022, as the Chief Guest. On this occasion, Devina inspired the students and professionals, emphasizing that learning is the driving force behind Viksit Bharat. The conference also saw a keynote address by Suraja Kishore, CEO of BBDO India & TeamX for Mercedes-Benz, India, followed by engaging discussions with Kumara Raghavan, Head, Startups, AWS India and Monica Dubey, Head – Brand Management, Bajaj Allianz General Insurance Co. Ltd. Speaking on this occasion, Dr. Prabhat Pankaj, Director, Jaipuria Institute of Management, Jaipur motivated the attendees and said that Viksit Bharat is built on the pillars of knowledge, innovation and the courage to unlearn and evolve. In the conference, 40 research papers were presented during the technical sessions, reflecting key perspectives on India’s economic, technological, and social advancements. A book titled ‘Viksit Bharat: Idea of India as a Developed Country’, published by Bloomsbury was also released. A thought-provoking session on “From Forbes and Fortune: Stories Penned by Powerhouses,” featured Viraj Mithani, a Forbes India 30 Under 30 artist and founder of Carpe Arte, who shared insights on creativity and innovation. Attendees also participated in an insightful session on the theme ‘Creating a Life You Love,’ with Ashdin Doctor, Author of ‘One Habit a Day: 31 Habits to Transform Your Life’ and ‘Change Your Life: Small Actions, Big Results’. The Youth Achiever Session featured performances by renowned …

Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board has once again achieved a significant milestone. The board has been honoured with a prestigious award in the ‘Global Recognition to Historical Heritage’ category.  The accolade was presented at a distinguished event in New Delhi, recognizing the board’s unwavering efforts in preserving and promoting the state’s rich historical and cultural heritage. This achievement reaffirms Madhya Pradesh’s position as a global heritage destination and highlights its dedication to safeguarding the past for future generations. Expressing his delight over this remarkable achievement, Shri Sheo Shekhar Shukla, Principal Secretary Tourism, Culture and Religious Trusts & Endowments Department and Managing Director Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board stated, “This award is a proud moment for Madhya Pradesh and a testament to our relentless efforts in heritage conservation. Our state is home to some of the world’s most iconic historical landmarks, and this recognition will further strengthen their global presence, drawing travelers and history enthusiasts from across the world.” With this achievement, Madhya Pradesh continues to strengthen its position on the international tourism map. The award further cements the Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board’s reputation at the global level, highlighting its commitment to showcasing the state’s historical landmarks and cultural heritage to the world. This prestigious honour was presented at World Travel and Tourism Festival Awards organized by TV9 Network and RedHat Communication.

Faculty of Hospitality & Tourism (FHT), Amity University Uttar Pradesh Noida, in collaboration with International Tourism Studies Association (ITSA) and United Nations (Tourism) is organising a three-day International Conference on “Bridging the Gaps in Tourism Knowledge and practice: Sustainable Development, Regenerative Tourism, Digital Eco-Systems and Green Investments” from 6th to 8th February, 2025. Inaugurating the Conference, Chief Guest, Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Union Minister of Tourism & Minister of Culture, averred, “India’s cultural heritage has been the richest since ancient times and India was the focal point of knowledge, art, architecture, handicrafts, trade. Many people from various countries used to visit India to understand its rich cultural and traditional heritage. India is the mother of world tourism, and it has the potential to become the number one country in the tourism sector. Covid had a significant impact on the tourism industry but still we managed to bounce back. By the year 2040, India will become 6 trillion-dollar economy and tourism industry will contribute 10% to the economy. Under the visionary guidance of Prime Minister, 1,050 kms of roads, 157 airports and high-speed railway network have been created. Sustainability is a priority in the tourism industry and under “Paryatan Mitra” and “Paryatan Didi” initiatives, we aim to inculcate a sense of responsibility amongst the tourists to foster responsible and sustainable tourism. We also plan to give “Green Leaf Ratings” to the hotels for sustainability so that they comply with sustainable practices. Green investment, water conservation and green electricity will reduce the impact of climate change on the tourism sector.” Dr. Ashok Chauhan, Founder President, Amity Education Group, stated, “We are extremely grateful to the hon’ble Minister Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat ji for sparing his valuable …

Mr. Gaurav Shetty is a visionary leader at the helm of MRG Group, one of India’s foremost conglomerates in hospitality and real estate. With over 10 years of experience in the hospitality industry, Gaurav has been instrumental in expanding the group’s portfolio, exploring new markets, and setting new benchmarks for excellence. An alumnus of the renowned Swiss Hotel Management School, Gaurav seamlessly blends international education with a deep understanding of the ever-evolving Indian hospitality landscape. His career began in prestigious hotels both domestically and internationally, where he gained invaluable hands-on experience in hotel operations and management. Motivated by his father, Dr. K. Prakash Shetty, the founder of MRG Group, Gaurav took the reins as Managing Director, carrying forward his family’s legacy with remarkable success. Under his stewardship, MRG Group has grown into an industry powerhouse, featuring luxury hotels and an array of fine-dining restaurants. Key properties include the Courtyard by Marriott Hebbal, DoubleTree by Hilton Goa, and the Marriott Navi Mumbai. Gaurav’s vision extends to upcoming high-profile projects, including Goldfinch Goa, Marriott Resort & Spa in Chikkamagaluru, JW Marriott Resort, Spa & Residential in Sakleshpur, Tribute in Mangalore & Goldfinch Retreat in Mangalore and Westin Bangalore – each set to redefine the industry in the years ahead. Gaurav’s influence also extends into real estate, where he plays a pivotal role under MRG Group. His focus on land banking, residential development, and commercial projects underscores his commitment to shaping India’s skyline. An ambitious initiative under the MRG Group umbrella is Goldfinch City in Mangalore, which will become one of the largest mixed-use developments in the region, encompassing Mall, Hotel, Restaurants, IT Parks, International School, Luxury Residences, Convention Halls, Hospitals, Co-living, Sports …

As technological advancements continue to reshape industries, the World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs Report 2024 projects that 44% of core skills will require adaptation by 2028. This transformation highlights the increasing significance of continuous learning. According to LinkedIn Learning’s 2024 report, 79% of professionals now regard continuous learning as essential for career advancement—an increase from 64% in 2020. In the hospitality sector, a Sommet Education European survey revealed that 30% of young professionals prioritize personal growth, while 29% consider professional development to be a crucial factor in their careers. Addressing these trends, Sommet Education, a global leader in hospitality, luxury, gastronomic education and training, has launched Sommet Education Business Solutions. This initiative offers bespoke training and leadership development solutions, drawing on the expertise of world-renowned institutions such as Glion Institute of Higher Education, Les Roches, École Ducasse, Indian School of Hospitality, and Invictus Education. These solutions are designed to unlock the potential of in-house talent, leveraging insights from over 300 educators, world-champion chefs, and seasoned industry leaders. Benoît-Etienne Domenget, CEO of Sommet Education, emphasized: “Leveraging our world-class educational institutions to enhance corporate talent development models is a strategic evolution. By integrating foundational with lifelong learning, we provide a holistic solution that empowers businesses and their teams to thrive in an ever-evolving industry landscape.” Demonstrating the impact of this approach, luxury hospitality leader Mandarin Oriental has partnered with Sommet Education. Their collaboration focuses on enhancing student learning experiences, supporting underserved communities, and empowering employees through tailored training solutions. Laurent Kleitman, CEO of Mandarin Oriental, shared:“The next generation of talent is a vital force in shaping the future of luxury hospitality. They bring fresh perspectives, set new benchmarks, and contribute to the continued …

This February, the Four Seasons Hotel Bengaluru unveils Mystical Moods, the latest instalment in its newly launched rotating exhibition series. Hosted at CUR8, the hotel’s elegant all-day dining destination, this month-long showcase will feature the evocative works of five of the city’s most celebrated contemporary artists, promising art connoisseurs an immersive exploration of the human experience. Mr. Biswajit Chakraborty General Manager said, “At the heart of this exhibition, hosted at CUR8—our dining venue that is now taking art beyond the confines of galleries—lies the Four Seasons ethos to inspire connection, foster kindness, and celebrate shared stories across cultures and generations. With each new showcase, we want to offer a fresh perspective on the ever-evolving artistic landscape of the city, appealing to both seasoned art lovers and casual observers alike.” The exhibition presents a range of pieces from renowned artists, including the late Yusuf Arakkal, Meena Das Narayan, Ganesh Doddamani, Prabhu Harsoor, and C.F. John, each contributing a unique artistic voice to the on-going dialogue of human connection and spiritual experience. Rich in emotion and symbolism, the display invites guests and casual observers to embark on a journey that transcends the ordinary. Each piece explores powerful themes such as spirituality, identity, and searching for meaning in an often chaotic and uncertain world. The showcase brings Ganesh Doddamani’s artistic vision to the forefront, where he draws inspiration from personal memories and folklore, creating familiar and ethereal landscapes. It also celebrates the work of the late Yusuf Arakkal, whose signature style, characterised by its brooding figures and melancholic hues, explores themes of isolation and longing. Meanwhile, Meena Das Narayan, a master of capturing the nuances of human expression, adds vibrancy to the artistic …

Two hospitality companies have aligned forces, creating one powerhouse organization strategically positioned for the future of the Indian hospitality industry: LaRiSa Hotels and Resorts that owns and operates hotels with a portfolio of 8 properties across India and AM Hotel Kollection that manages experiential boutique hotels with 18 properties have a combined annual operating revenue of more than INR 100 Crore with 26 operational units comprising 950 keys and another 6 hotels with 120 keys on the anvil. In its new avatar, the new company under the brand LaRiSa Hotels and Resorts captures the passions and unique strengths of AM Hotel Kollection, an established operator managing independent and lifestyle properties, and LaRiSa Hotels, known for its owned and operated hotels, as well as curated and experiential hospitality. This merger will drive greater success and provide the necessary momentum for accelerated growth – giving the company an opportunity to participate in Branded and Co-branded ownership and management space. Their combined centers of excellence will make it the property manager and employer of choice as it delivers improved and accelerated results focused on service to owners and hotel guests. Over the next few years, the merged entity expects a 20-25% growth from the existing and also hopes to enhance the revenue through new acquisitions and management contracts. Hospitality innovators join forces Leading the new company are Ms. Priya Thakur – Owner and Director of Larisa Hotels and Mr. Randhir Narayan—Founder and CEO of AM Hotel Kollection. This transformative partnership merges Larisa’s signature collection with AM Hotel Kollection’s unique hotels across India and beyond, creating a collective portfolio of 32 diverse hotels, resorts and villas. This landmark merger cements Larisa’s position as a …