Category Archives: Agents

GRT Hotels & Resorts hosted a vibrant meet in the capital, bringing together key players from the fraternity for an evening of networking, knowledge sharing, and partnership building. The event witnessed participation from some of the most respected names in the industry, reinforcing GRT’s commitment to strengthening its travel trade relationships across the country. The gathering showcased GRT Hotels’ expanding portfolio and innovative experiences across South India, with special emphasis on its award-winning resorts and urban escapes. Guests were also given exclusive updates on new offerings, signature experiences, and the brand’s vision for the year ahead. Speaking on the occasion, Vikram Cotah, CEO, GRT Hotels & Resorts, said: “Our travel trade partners have been integral to our growth journey. Events like these allow us to reconnect, exchange ideas, and explore new possibilities together. At GRT Hotels & Resorts, we believe in creating not just stays but stories – and our partners help us take those stories far and wide.”

According to new research from MakeMyTrip, 69% Indian travellers expressed their willingness to choose destinations that actively promote responsible travel, with an emphasis on local sustainability initiatives. Deep Kalra, Founder & Chairman, MMT & Chairman, WTTCII, said, “The Market is ready, the challenge now is for the industry to provide the products and services that meet demand.”

Addressing global geopolitical tensions and climate change, PATA leadership predicted a future of regional travel dominance. With rising airfare costs and increasing environmental awareness, long-haul tourism may become less viable. Asia’s intra-regional strength, where 80% of arrivals come from neighboring countries, positions it well for this shift. “We must stop assuming tourism equals Western arrivals,” said Peter Semone, Chair, PATA. “Our biggest spenders may already be next door.”

In the aftermath of the recent terrorist incident in Kashmir, V Vidyavathi, Secretary (Tourism), has requested all tourist service operators, travel agents, tour operators, and OTAs, tourist transport providers, hoteliers and all other accommodation units to provide all possible assistance to the tourists, including waving off cancellation fees. Meanwhile, Union Minister for Civil Aviation Ram Mohan Naidu held an urgent meeting with all airline operators and issued a strong advisory against surge pricing. Airlines have been directed to maintain regular fare levels, ensuring that no passenger is burdened during this sensitive time. As part of immediate relief measures, four special flights from Srinagar—two to Delhi and two to Mumbai—have been arranged, with additional flights kept on standby to cater to further evacuation needs.

Arunachal Pradesh Deputy CM Chowna Mein emphasised the need to develop a Buddhist circuit in the region to promote spiritual tourism and cultural exchange. He was speaking at the two-day International conclave on Buddha Dhamma and the culture of Northeast. He said that Namsai is a unique example of how an ancient way of life is still being practiced here. Making a strong case for initiating a Buddhist Circuit in the state he said our culture is deeply rooted in socio-religious festivals.

Himachal CM Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu urged the Centre to form a Himachal Scouts Battalion with local recruitment from border areas. He also sought Army support to boost border tourism up to the LAC and called for removing inner line check posts to ease permit hurdles, aiming to simplify travel and improve the tourist experience.

Global travel app Skyscanner in its ‘Pitch Perfect Journeys’ report, reveals how the love of cricket is shaping the travel choices of Indians. With nearly half (47%) of Indians ready to swap their sofas for seats at the stadium–both within the country and abroad–the passion for the sport is higher than ever before. In fact, 50% of fans are choosing to extend their cricket trips by 3–4 days, turning it into a full-fledged getaway.  From savouring local flavours to checking off tourist landmarks and iconic sites, fans are making the most of their trip by exploring the host city.

Cygnett Hotels & Resorts has announced the opening of its latest property, Cozzet Mahad in Maharashtra. This strategic expansion strengthens the brand’s regional presence, catering to business and leisure travellers. In its first phase, Cozzet Mahad features an inventory of 55 keys under Superior, Club and Suite categories. The second phase will further enhance the offering with an additional 55 rooms, providing guests with a wider selection of accommodations. In terms of its F&B offerings, Cozzet Mahad houses C Pavilion, an all-day dining restaurant catering to diverse culinary preferences. Guests can indulge in a diverse selection of fresh, healthy, hygienic, and thoughtfully prepared world cuisines at C Pavilion. The restaurant also offers tempting mocktails and relishing light bites for a quick snack. Gossip Veg Bistro is a fully vegetarian eatery which offers exquisite tastes. Guests can also bask in the comfort of their room while digging on their favourite food at any time of the day, thanks to in-room dining. More to this is the perched high above the city, Metro Sky Lounge is a stunning 60-cover rooftop restro bar that offers a perfect blend of ambiance, taste, and skyline magic. With panoramic views that stretch across the urban horizon, it’s the ultimate destination for those who seek elevated evenings and unforgettable moments. Cozzet Mahad offers an elegant MICE venue, Summit, a well-appointed banquet and conference hall designed for both formal and informal gatherings. With modern amenities and a versatile layout, the facility comfortably accommodates up to 250 guests, making it ideal for conferences, celebrations, and intimate events alike. Speaking on the latest opening, Mr. Sarbendra Sarkar, Founder & Managing Director, Cygnett Hotels & Resorts, shared, “The Cozzet is a …

The India Pavilion at MATTA Fair 2025 in Kuala Lumpur marks a key highlight of the ASEAN-India Year of Tourism 2025. Assam Tourism Development Corporation (ATDC) has taken the lead in curating and coordinating India’s participation, with a strong focus on Northeast India’s tourism potential. India’s representation this year includes 50 delegates from 18 Indian states and union territories such as Assam, Meghalaya, Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Sikkim, Mizoram, Delhi, Gujarat, Kerala, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, J&K, Andamans & Nicobar among others, each contributing regional strengths to a unified national showcase. “This platform gives us an opportunity to present India’s cultural and geographical richness to a global audience,” said Pabitra Margherita, Union Minister of State for External Affairs and Textiles. “Our presence at MATTA Fair reaffirms India’s commitment to strengthening tourism ties with ASEAN countries. Assam and the entire Northeast region have distinctive offerings; from wellness retreats and river cruises to wildlife experiences and community-led travel models. This year, we are bringing these stories to the forefront.” Padmapani Bora, IRS, Commissioner & Secretary to the Govt of Assam Managing Director, Assam Tourism Development Corporation added, “ATDC is proud to implement India’s participation in this landmark event and grateful to the Ministry of External Affairs, Govt. of India for nominating us as implementing agency. We are not only representing Assam but also coordinating efforts to position Northeast India as an integral part of India’s global tourism identity. Beyond exhibitions, this is a space for building relationships, exchanging ideas, and opening new channels of growth for regional tourism stakeholders.” India’s participation at MATTA Fair is part of the broader Tourism Professionals Exchange Programme 2025, a two-part initiative designed to foster closer tourism engagement between …

This is a proud moment for India on the global stage! SanJeet, Director of DDP Publications, was honoured with the prestigious PATA Award of Merit at the PATA Annual Summit 2025 in Istanbul, Türkiye. In recognition of his tireless contribution to the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) and steadfast support of the PATA Chapter network, SanJeet, Director of DDP Publications Private Limited, was honored with the PATA Award of Merit at the PATA Annual Summit 2025 in Istanbul, Türkiye. A PATA member since 1999, SanJeet has served over 18 years in key leadership roles, including two terms on the Executive Board. He has been instrumental in strengthening the India Chapter and was a driving force behind bringing the PATA Travel Mart to New Delhi in 2023. This award celebrates his enduring legacy and continued commitment to shaping the future of global travel and tourism.