Destination Updates

European Union now grants Indian nationals extended access to multi-entry Schengen visas valid for two years, contingent on prior lawful usage of two visas within three years. Effective April 18, this initiative strengthens EU-India relations under the Common Agenda on Migration and Mobility, emphasizing people-to-people connections. Schengen visas enable short stays up to 90 days within 180 days across 29 European countries, including 25 EU states and Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland. These visas do not authorize work.

India's cruise tourism surged in 2023-24, surpassing pre-pandemic levels with 470,000 visitors, notably higher than before the pandemic. Government data indicates an 85% increase in domestic tourists compared to 2019-20, highlighting the rising popularity of domestic cruise tourism. In 2019-20, domestic and international tourists shared an equal ratio, but the pandemic disrupted this balance. However, in 2023-24, international tourist footfall tripled to 98,344. Various initiatives, such as guaranteed berths, concessional rates, and simplified visa procedures, aim to harness the sector's potential.

Bhutan's Department of Tourism has announced the removal of the mandatory travel insurance requirement for tourists, initially introduced during the pandemic. With improving conditions, the move aims to streamline travel procedures and enhance convenience. While no longer mandatory for visa processing, tourists are still encouraged to obtain travel insurance for precautionary purposes. Bhutan seeks to simplify visa applications and attract more visitors to experience its rich culture and landscapes. This reflects Bhutan's dedication to providing a welcoming and safe environment for tourists.

India's first bullet train project is rapidly advancing, with Union Railways and IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw targeting the first train to operate on a section by 2026. Progress on the Ahmedabad-Mumbai route includes over 290 km of completed work, bridges over eight rivers, and ongoing construction at 12 stations. Despite initial setbacks due to the COVID-19 pandemic and delays in Maharashtra, the project is now moving forward efficiently. The corridor boasts a 21-km tunnel, including a 7-km undersea stretch, where trains will run at speeds of 300-320 kmph. This project aims to establish a high-frequency mass transportation system using Japan's Shinkansen technology.

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) launched its 2024 Europe travel season on April 19, featuring 101 unique itineraries across 140 ports. Guests can choose from a variety of immersive shore excursions and enjoy enhanced onboard experiences, including entertainment, dining, and activities for all ages. NCL's Freestyle Cruising philosophy allows guests to tailor their holiday experience, and the Free at Sea offer provides customizable perks such as specialty dining and beverage packages.

India's tourism sector is projected to soar to nearly $24 billion in 2024, with a 9.6% annual growth rate expected until 2028, reaching $34.25 billion, reports India Brand Equity Foundation. A shift in revenue dominance towards package holidays is anticipated for 2024, surpassing hotels. The country's initiatives to boost tourism include allowing 100% foreign direct investment in related ventures and prioritizing heritage site preservation alongside infrastructure development. An ANI report suggests a surge in package holiday travelers to 65 million by 2028. These efforts underscore India's commitment to becoming a premier global tourist destination, emphasizing enhanced visitor experiences.

Global aviation is witnessing a resurgence post-pandemic, with airlines aggressively expanding networks to boost connectivity and economic growth. Delta's JFK-Munich service, ITA Airways' Rome-Chicago route, Widerøe's Bergen-Brussels link, and Porter's Montreal-Vancouver connection are notable expansions. Milan Bergamo Airport is enhancing North African ties, while IndiGo plans Chandigarh-Abu Dhabi flights. Frontier Airlines targets premium markets, while Luxair resumes Luxembourg-Manchester routes. Frontier's low-cost model drives extensive US expansions. These developments highlight aviation's resilience and its pivotal role in fostering global connectivity and economic prosperity.

Radisson Hotel Group inaugurates its debut hotel in Gopalpur, Odisha – Pramod Lands' End Resort, under Radisson Individuals. Positioned on the scenic Gopalpur Beach, the hotel offers a serene retreat in a region famed for its colonial heritage and natural splendor. Strategically located, it serves as a convenient base for exploration, just a four-hour drive from religious hubs like Puri and Konark. Nikhil Sharma, Managing Director, Radisson Hotel Group, underscores the brand's commitment to uplift Odisha's tourism. Durga Prasad Rath, Managing Director of Padma Eastern Hotels Pvt Ltd, highlights the partnership's dedication to exceptional hospitality. Bibek Mishra, General Manager, assures guests of memorable experiences immersed in Odisha's enchanting allure.

Cruise travel is rebounding strongly, surpassing pre-pandemic levels and contributing significantly to global economies, according to the Cruise Lines International Association. Intent to cruise remains high, with millennials showing increasing interest. The industry is expected to host 35.7 million passengers by 2024 and nearly 40 million by 2027. Cruise tourism generated $138 billion in 2022, supporting 1.2 million jobs. Trends include extended destination stays and a rise in expeditions and accessible excursions. The industry aims for net-zero emissions by 2050 and emphasizes diversity, with a multinational workforce of nearly 300,000 seafarers, including a substantial number of women.

ISKCON leader highlights the forthcoming significance of the towering Krishna temple in Vrindavan, Uttar Pradesh, as a global showcase of Indian culture, poised to boost tourism and the local economy. The $80 million Vrindavan Heritage Tower, set to stand at 210 meters with 70 floors, will aim to cater to spiritual seekers and tourists alike. With a focus on reinforcing cultural ties and socio-economic development, the project underscores the importance of robust infrastructure in attracting global visitors. Plans include extensive accommodation and parking facilities to accommodate the anticipated influx of up to 100 million tourists in the coming years.

WTTC predicts a record-breaking year in 2024 for Travel & Tourism, with a global economic contribution of USD11.1 trillion, surpassing pre-pandemic levels. Their research suggests an additional USD770 billion compared to previous records, with 142 out of 185 countries expected to outperform previous national records. Almost 348 million jobs will be created globally, marking a significant increase from 2019. International visitor spending is set to near 2019 peak at USD1.89 trillion, while domestic tourism expenditure is forecasted to hit a record USD5.4 trillion. This underscores Travel & Tourism's resilience and importance as a global economic powerhouse, showcasing its promising trajectory post-pandemic.

A report by Atlys, an online visa application platform, reveals a rising trend of solo travel among Indians to destinations like UAE, Egypt, Singapore, and Vietnam. Solo travelers accounted for 65% of UAE visa applications, 60% for Egypt, 40% for Singapore, and 45% for Vietnam. Group tour applications were also notable, with 20% for UAE, 30% for Egypt, 25% for Singapore, and 20% for Vietnam. Men dominated visa applications, comprising 77% for UAE and 71% for Singapore, while 30% of women applied for Singapore visas and 25% for UAE. Dubai attracted travelers from Bengaluru, Mumbai, Delhi, and Hyderabad, while Vietnam saw applications mainly from Bengaluru, Mumbai, and Delhi.

Goa Tourism joins hands with IRONMAN 70.3 India organizers, Yoska, to boost sports tourism. Goa Tourism director, Suneel Anchipaka, and IRONMAN 70.3 India deputy race director, Neil D’silva, inked the pact at the Goa International Travel Mart. Anchipaka aims to position Goa as a top sports tourism spot, leveraging its beauty. Yoska's expertise enhances sporting events showcasing Goa's best. Since 2019, IRONMAN 70.3 India in Goa has attracted participants globally, with the 2024 race slated for October 27 set to maintain the momentum.

Thailand is proposing a joint-visa program with neighboring countries that collectively welcomed 70 million tourists last year. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin aims to boost tourism by facilitating seamless mobility among Cambodia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, and Vietnam. This Schengen-type visa initiative aims to attract long-haul, high-spending travelers, aligning with Srettha's vision to elevate Thailand into an aviation and logistics hub. Positive responses from leaders indicate potential benefits in generating more revenue per traveler, vital for Thailand's economy amidst challenges like sluggish exports. In 2023, Thailand and Malaysia led the region in tourist arrivals, contributing over $48 billion to tourism revenue.

Indian Railways introduces summer special Vande Bharat Express trains for April 2024, facilitating travel to hometowns and tourist spots. Trains will operate from Chennai Egmore to Nagercoil and return on 5th, 6th, 7th, 12th, 13th, 14th, 19th, 20th, 21st, 26th, 27th, and 28th April. These fully reservation-based trains address increased demand during festive seasons. In 2023, Indian Railways announced 283 festival special trains for Diwali and Chhath Puja, totaling approximately 4,480 trips, enhancing travel convenience during peak periods.

Bulgaria and Romania joined the Schengen area on March 31, 2024, enabling free movement by air and sea without border checks. This aligns them with the rest of Europe, lifting visa issuance and internal border controls. The European Commission praised the move, expanding the world's largest border-free area. Both countries have prepared for the transition, enhancing cooperation and security measures, including joining regional police initiatives.

In 2023, San Francisco welcomed 23.1 million visitors, a 5.2% increase from the previous year, with spending reaching USD 9.3 billion, boosted by a strong convention year. Hotel occupancy rose to 64.2%, generating USD 609.6 million in tax revenue and supporting nearly 63,000 jobs, marking an 18% increase.

Effective April 1st, the insurance fee for tourism visas will be slashed from 180 Saudi riyals to 95 Saudi riyals. This reduction underscores their dedication to enhancing the affordability and accessibility of visas for a broader demographic, addressing the question of why. Initially, this change will be rolled out for Group A countries applying through the VisitSaudi website and visa on arrival, addressing the question of where and who. Subsequently, Group B countries will undergo the same adjustment through alternative visa acquisition channels, with exact dates to be confirmed by relevant stakeholders, covering the question of how and when.

Overtourism, the plague of popular destinations like Venice and Barcelona, prompts measures like tourist taxes to mitigate its impacts. Locals face soaring property prices due to holiday lets, while authorities grapple with tourist-generated waste and pollution aggravating climate issues. These taxes, commonplace in many tourist spots, are an additional fee on accommodations and services. They're a tool that destinations rely on to curb excessive tourism and its effects on communities and the environment.

Marriott Hotels announced the opening of Perhentian Marriott Resort & Spa in Terengganu, Malaysia. Nestled in the Perhentian Island Marine Park, it's Marriott's debut in Terengganu, offering a tropical sanctuary with marine biodiversity, pristine beaches, and Malaysian culture. Accessible by ferry from Kuala Besut Jetty, it aims to become a must-visit destination.

The Department of Tourism in Bhutan unveils the Druk Neykor initiative, offering an enriching journey across 108 sites and monuments, unveiling the nation's rich history, culture, and spirituality. Tailored for travelers of all ages, this program begins with tours to 16 iconic sites in Thimphu, such as Wangditse Lhakhang and Tshelung Ney, accessible by road or hiking trails. Accommodation options, including hotels, guesthouses, and campsites, provide a convenient and comfortable stay near these sacred landmarks.

According to recent data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), tourist arrivals from India for the year ending in January 2024 reached a record high of 402,200, representing a remarkable 101% of pre-pandemic levels in 2019. This marks the first time Australia has surpassed the milestone of 400,000 arrivals from India. Additionally, India has ascended to become the 5th largest inbound market for Australian tourism in 2024, a significant improvement from its previous ranking of 7th in 2019. In January 2024 alone, Australia welcomed 26,200 visitors from India, reflecting a robust 106% of pre-pandemic levels in 2019.

IndiGo, led by its chief Pieter Elbers, sets ambitious goals to double its size by 2030 through expansion of both domestic and international routes and destinations. With a domestic market share exceeding 60%, the airline plans to leverage the A321 XLR aircraft, expected to join its fleet in 2025, for further global expansion. Elbers emphasizes the aim to consolidate and expand IndiGo's position on the global stage, with plans to double capacity by the end of the decade. For the upcoming financial year starting April 2024, the airline anticipates early double-digit growth in seat capacity, with a new plane joining its fleet every week.

The Skyscanner Horizons 2023-2024 report indicates a significant increase in travel budget allocation among Indians for 2024, with 63% planning to spend more, surpassing all other countries. Notably, there is a growing trend of Indians opting for international vacations this year, alongside a willingness to invest in travel comforts like business or first-class upgrades and access to airport lounges. Additionally, one in ten Indian travelers considers the cost of activities, such as shopping, as a key factor. Furthermore, Indian travelers, along with those from the UAE, Spain, South Korea, Saudi Arabia, and Singapore, show a preference for booking travel via mobile devices.

In 2023, Canberra's tourism soared to unprecedented heights, as figures from Tourism Research Australia reveal. With a staggering 5.8 million visitors, generating $3.8 billion in expenditure, the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) witnessed its highest-ever spending in a 12-month period over the past 25 years. Exceeding 2022's expenditure by $770 million, this remarkable growth showcases Canberra's resilience and appeal as a top tourist destination. Total visitor numbers have rebounded to 95% of pre-COVID levels, while expenditure has soared to 135% compared to 2019.

FCM Travel India hosted its debut Corporate Travel Summit in Mumbai with GBTA, sponsored by industry leaders like Hyatt India Hotels, Amadeus, and Singapore Airlines. Over 150 travel professionals attended, discussing trends, tech, events, and sustainability. Sunny Sodhi, MD of FCM Travel India, emphasized India's global business travel standing, projecting an 18.3% surge in 2024 spend after a notable 24.7% rise in 2023.

The Skift India Summit hosted a dynamic conversation between TBO founders Ankush Nijhawan and Gaurav Bhatnagar, moderated by Rafat Ali of Skift. They explored TBO's journey since 2006, its IPO plans, and the potential of AI in travel. Mr. Nijhawan and Mr. Bhatnagar highlighted TBO's pivotal role as a link between travel demand and supply, emphasizing its value for agents. Their discussion touched on TBO's continued focus on the Middle East market and expansion strategies in Europe. The founders also shared insights into TBO's international growth and acquisition strategies. They concluded by discussing AI's transformative impact on travel experiences. The dialogue at the Skift India Summit provided valuable insights into TBO's evolution and commitment to innovation in travel technology.

Preliminary 2023 data from the Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) reveals a remarkable surge in cruise visits, totaling 31.1 million—a significant 56.8% increase from 2022 and surpassing the previous 2019 record. These figures denote cruise arrivals rather than passenger counts, reflecting the region's robust cruise sector performance. Factors contributing to this growth include pent-up demand, resumed operations, larger ships, and enhanced facilities and itineraries. The CTO anticipates continued growth, projecting 34.2 million to 35.8 million arrivals in 2024.

Jeddah Historic District launches restoration and transformation of three heritage properties into luxury hotels in Al Balad, a UNESCO-protected area in Saudi Arabia's West Coast. Named House of Jokhdar, Kedwan, and Al Rayess, these hotels blend historical authenticity with modern luxury, utilizing local expertise, artists, and materials. This initiative by the Jeddah Historic District program contributes to the revitalization of Al Balad, preserving its rich cultural heritage.

FLY91, the newest addition to the aviation landscape, launched its commercial services on Monday with its inaugural flight departing from Goa's Manohar International Airport at 07:55 am bound for Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru. Additionally, the regional airline marked another milestone by operating its maiden flight from Bengaluru to Sindhudurg on the same day. A spokesperson for the company announced the commencement of operations along with a special fare offer of Rs 1,991 (inclusive of all charges) applicable to all FLY91 routes. This inaugural promotion is applicable to flights across all sectors served by FLY91.