Author: Travel and Tourism Desk

South African Tourism has announced the 11th edition of its flagship Learn South Africa (Learn SA) training programme, reinforcing its efforts to deepen engagement with India’s travel trade. The 2025–26 edition aims to equip over 300 travel partners with updated insights, destination knowledge, and business tools to promote South Africa’s diverse tourism offerings more effectively. Focusing on high-potential tier-2 cities, this year’s multi-city workshop series will begin in Surat on 28 November 2025, followed by Pune on 12 December 2025. The programme will continue in Kolkata on 16 January 2026 and conclude in Lucknow on 6 March 2026. Through these…

Goa remains the timeless favourite for year end travel, and 2025 brings even more reasons to escape to its sunlit shores. As plans begin to take shape and group chats buzz with excitement, Marriott Bonvoy invites travellers to welcome the new year with curated stays across Goa’s most loved destinations. With 2,025 bonus points and 5 per cent savings on bookings, your coastal holiday begins on a rewarding note even before you arrive. From Anjuna’s creative corners to Vagator’s cliffside charm and the calm stretches of Colva, Benaulim, and Cavelossim, each Marriott property offers thoughtfully designed experiences that bring your…

Malaysia Airlines has officially launched its India Mall Activation Tour, a multi-city series of immersive experiences designed to connect with travellers and inspire year-end holiday planning. Through interactive zones, destination highlights, and exclusive travel promotions, the airline aims to strengthen its presence in one of its fastest-growing international markets. The tour kicked off with a vibrant three-day activation at R City Mall, Mumbai, held from 14 to 16 November 2025. Thousands of visitors, including families, travel enthusiasts, and holiday planners, participated in the showcase, enjoying personalised travel insights and engaging brand experiences. Leading travel partners such as Akbar Holidays, Riya…

From November 22, 2025, Indian citizens will no longer be able to enter Iran without a visa. The Iranian government has officially suspended its visa-free travel scheme for Indians, citing growing concerns over fraud and kidnapping incidents involving Indian nationals. The decision represents a significant change for travellers and has raised questions for those planning tourism, education, or transit visits to Iran. Authorities in Tehran reported multiple cases in which criminals exploited the previous visa-free system. In several incidents, Indian citizens were reportedly lured to Iran with promises of employment, business opportunities, or other benefits. Upon arrival, some were subjected…

The Maldives has taken a significant step forward in enhancing its infrastructure with the inauguration of a new international airport, constructed with considerable support from India. This development is poised to strengthen the country’s connectivity, boost tourism, and propel economic growth in the strategically important island nation. The newly built airport is situated at a location that facilitates easier access for tourists and residents alike, providing a much-needed upgrade to the country’s existing aviation facilities. With modern terminals, expanded runways, and cutting-edge navigation and safety systems, the airport is equipped to handle larger aircraft and accommodate a higher volume of…

When people talk about modern India, they often mention technology, start-ups, or space missions. But there is another symbol of progress that runs quietly across the country the Vande Bharat Express. Known for its sleek design, comfort, and speed, this train has become more than just a mode of travel. It represents a new spirit of innovation, efficiency, and pride in India’s own capabilities. The Vande Bharat Express is designed and built completely in India by the Integral Coach Factory (ICF) in Chennai. This makes it one of the proud achievements under the “Make in India” initiative. The first Vande…

Madhuri Dixit’s ongoing Canada Tour recently became the subject of online debate after attendees voiced frustration over alleged delays and confusion about the event’s structure. However, the national organisers have now come forward to set the record straight. Atique Sheikh, the National Promoter for the tour, addressed the controversy in a press conference, clarifying that Madhuri Dixit was not responsible for any delay. According to him, the confusion was caused by a local promoter’s miscommunication regarding the event format. Sheikh explained that the event was never intended to be a concert but rather a Fan Meet & Greet, featuring an…

Hyatt Hotels Corporation has announced plans to bring the Hyatt Place brand to Bhuj, marking its first hotel in this historic city of Gujarat. The new hotel, Hyatt Place Bhuj, is under development by Primitive Property LLP and is set to open in 2029. It will be located on a 7,500-square-meter site, aiming to blend comfort, innovation, and style for modern travelers. Bhuj, known as the gateway to the Kutch district, is rapidly emerging as both a corporate and cultural hub. Hyatt Place Bhuj aims to meet the demands of multitasking guests by offering 125 thoughtfully designed guestrooms, combining comfort…

Air travel in India is about to get a lot more passenger-friendly. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), India’s aviation regulator, has proposed major changes to how airlines handle ticket cancellations and refunds. The move aims to protect flyers from unfair charges, hidden conditions, and long refund delays that have long frustrated travellers. A new chapter for air travellers Every day, thousands of passengers in India book flights for work, family visits, or holidays. But a sudden plan change, a medical issue, or an emergency often forces them to cancel or reschedule. Many end up losing a big part…

Turkish Airlines, the carrier flying to more countries than any other airline, has secured a landmark financing deal with the Bank of China. The five-year facility, worth 2.9 billion Chinese Yuan (approximately USD 412 million), will support the airline’s fleet expansion, business growth, and infrastructure projects at Istanbul Airport. The deal, arranged by Bank of China Turkey A.Ş. and coordinated with BOC Macau, strengthens financial cooperation between Türkiye and China while diversifying Turkish Airlines’ funding sources. Assoc. Prof. Murat Şeker, Chief Financial Officer of Turkish Airlines, said, “We are pleased to deepen our collaboration with Bank of China through this…