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SpiceJet will not charge any fees for changes done at least 5 days prior to journey

Source: The Economic TimesDate: 19th April, 2021

officials said passengers will not be charged any fees for changing date or time in their tickets at least five days prior to the departure date. Earlier, the zero-fee was applicable only for changes done at least seven days prior to the journey, the airline’s press release said. “Under the new offering, passengers booking direct domestic flight tickets from April 17 to May 10 can enjoy a one-time waiver on the change fee for the travel period between April 17 and May 15,” it clarified. As states such as Maharashtra and Delhi are going under partial and full lockdown due t

Covid-19 negative report will be mandatory for Char Dham Yatra 2021

Source: The Economic TimesDate: 19th April, 2021

It will be mandatory for Char Dham pilgrims from outside of Uttarakhand to carry a negative Covid-19 test report, the state tourism and culture minister said on Saturday. The yatra is scheduled to start on May 14. The minister also hinted at placing a limit on the number of pilgrims that can visit a shrine daily. “Pilgrims coming from other states to Haridwar Maha Kumbh as well as the Char Dham Yatra are requested to follow the Covid-19 guidelines. The government is fully prepared for the yatra and as part of the guidelines, devotees must get CBNAAT, TrueNaT or RT-PCR tests are done bef

Haridwar Kumbha kicks off!

Source: Uttarakhand TourismDate: 04th April, 2021

The much-awaited mega event of Kumbha Mela has officially commenced in Uttarakhand's Haridwar. The event is hailed as one of the largest religious and peaceful gatherings in the world and sees enthusiasts and devotees coming in from all over the country as well as from across the world. The state has made it essential for visitors from 12 states to carry COVID negative test reports with them while visiting the state; those visiting Haridwar must also carry their RT-PCR negative report. April 12, 14, 27 are the major dates for Kumbha this time, and might attract a lot of visitors

The first space hotel of the world is all set to open in 2027

Source: Space tourismDate: 04th April, 2021

Journey to space is no longer a dream. Very soon, the general public will be able to fly to space and spend holidays and book vacations there, thanks to the Orbital Assembly's Voyager Station. The space construction firm has announced the opening of the world’s first space hotel in 2027. The Voyager Space Station is a proposed space station which aims to be the first commercial space hotel. Construction of the space station is planned in 2026. The space station will create artificial gravity using centrifugal force and the hotel will be built in a Ferris wheel shape. It will keep spi

Kashmir Introduced Direct, Evening Flights

Source: Jammu & Kashmir TourismDate: 02nd April, 2021

Tourism in Jammu & Kashmir is soon going to get a much-needed boost as direct evening flights got introduced. Night flight operations have already begun at Srinagar airport, thus allowing travellers to get into the valley at all times of the day now. This should also bring an advantage for the hospitality industry in Jammu and Kashmir. The first such flight operated by IndiGo, landed in Srinagar from Bengaluru on March 29 with 184 passengers on-board. Such direct flights from large cities such as Bengaluru is set to attract more visitors to the Union Territory. The Director of Kashmi

Tourism Malaysia gears up for border opening, to rope in operators from Ahmedabad

Source: Malaysia TourismDate: 02nd April, 2021

Amid the ongoing coronavirus pandemic that has hit the tourism industry worldwide, Tourism Malaysia has decided to touch base with international tour operators in Ahmedabad to woo potential tourists from Gujarat to famous destinations in Malaysia once travel restrictions are eased. Currently, Malaysia is closed for foreign tourists with the exception of students and essential workers. It is mulling to reopen borders if the Covid-19 situation improves. Addressing a virtual press conference during a two-day Gulf Travel Show on Wednesday, officials with Malaysia Tourism Promotion Board announce

IndiGo starts 14 new flights under Udan scheme

Source: Date: 02nd April, 2021

IndiGo on Thursday said it has started 14 new flights under regional connectivity scheme Udan from March 28 onwards. In a press release, the carrier said it has started these flights on various routes including Bhubaneswar-Allahabad, Bhubaneswar-Varanasi, Bhopal-Allahabad, Dibrugarh-Dimapur, Shillong-Agartala and Shillong-Silchar. Under the Udan scheme, financial incentives from the Centre, state governments and airport operators are extended to selected airlines to encourage operations from unserved and underserved airports, and keep airfares affordable.

Jammu and Kashmir to develop 7 new trekking routes in wildlife protected areas

Source: Jammu & Kashmir TourismDate: 01st April, 2021

Travellers on their next trip to Jammu and Kashmir will not just get an opportunity to explore more trekking routes but will also get a chance to stay at accommodations located in quaint places amidst pristine nature. Jammu and Kashmir will be developing seven new trekking routes in various wildlife protected areas and to further promote sustainable tourism, the existing infrastructure and resources of the Forest Department, including rest houses and inspection huts, would also be opened to tourists and wildlife enthusiasts. The decision would allow online booking of 29 forest rest houses and

SpiceJet introduces 'zero change fee' offer on domestic flights

Source: Date: 01st April, 2021

SpiceJet has introduced a 'zero change fee' offer under which passengers can modify dates or names on the ticket, at least seven days prior to the date of departure, without any charges. This offer will be applicable to all bookings done between March 27 and April 4 for travel period between March 27 and June 30, said the airline's press release. "The offer thus aims to extend significant flexibility and cost savings to all its passengers in these unprecedented times...Fare difference will be applicable for flight changes and shall be payable by the customer," the rele

Jamaica seeks to rekindle the romance with new honeymoon promotion

Source: Jamaica Tourist BoardDate: 31st March, 2021

Over the last year, many couples around the world had to cancel or postpone their wedding or honeymoon plans, but one thing we know is that – love is not cancelled! In the spirit of romance, the Jamaica Tourist Board has launched the ‘No Wedding, No Cry’ Jamaica Honeymoon Sweepstakes. Couples who show proof of a wedding cancellation between April-December last year can enter to win an ultimate four-night honeymoon to Moon Palace Jamaica complete with their deluxe honeymoon package, roundtrip airfare, airport transfers and a romantic excursion for two. “With world-cla

Qatar Airways to return to Mykonos as Greek tourism reopens

Source: Date: 31st March, 2021

Qatar Airways is resuming its service to Mykonos, Greece for the summer season as the destination welcomes visitors once again. The airline is planning to operate three flights a week using an A320 aircraft. The news has been welcomed by Qatar Airways Group chief executive, Akbar Al Baker. The national carrier of Qatar continues to rebuild its network, which currently stands at over 130 destinations.

Jersey to reopen to UK-mainland travelers from April

Source: Date: 31st March, 2021

As Covid-19 restrictions ease throughout the UK, Jersey, the largest Channel Island, has announced the re-opening of its borders. Guests from the UK and Crown Dependencies will be welcome again from April 26th. Visitors do not need to complete the UK government travel declaration form for travel to the island and Jersey is not included in the UK international travel ban. Visitors will be able to take advantage of sun, sea and sand, as well as plenty of space to socially distance if required. All arriving visitors will need to have a PCR test prior to arrival or will be required to complete

New York launches digital COVID vaccine passport

Source: Date: 31st March, 2021

New York starts an all new vaccine passport that will help those vaccinated to get into businesses and events. It's been called the Excelsior Pass. All you have to do is show a code on your phone, or even take a printout in order to show that you have been vaccinated against COVID 19. Or that you have tested negative for the virus recently. The Excelsior Pass will allow people to get into large-scale venues such as Madison Square Garden. Not just here, but the vaccine passport can be used to get entry into numerous events, arts, and entertainment places across the state of New Yo

DGCA approves 18,843 flights per week for summer schedule

Source: Date: 31st March, 2021

Aviation regulator DGCA on Tuesday said it has approved 18,843 flights per week from 108 airports for the summer schedule, which begins on the last Sunday of March and ends on the last Sunday of October. The number of flights for this year's summer schedule has been approved keeping in mind that airlines are permitted to operate not more than 80 per cent of their pre-COVID flights. "It may be noted that 18,843 departures per week have been finalised to/from 108 airports. Out of these 108 airports, Bareilly, Bilaspur, Kurnool and Rupasi are the new airports proposed by the scheduled ai

Maldivian to start first direct flight linking Mumbai-Maafaru

Source: Date: 31st March, 2021

Maldivian, the flag carrier of the Maldives, will launch its first direct flight connecting Maafaru with Mumbai, proving a boon to Bollywood, business and leisure travelers, an official said on Tuesday. Starting April 13, Maldivian will operate three flights a week on Sundays, Tuesdays and Fridays to Maafaru, with a flying time of around two-and-half hours. Currently, Maldivian operates three flights from the Indian Ocean island country's capital Male to Thiruvananthapuram, two to Kochi besides Chennai, with Mumbai set to join next month.

Kashmir All Set For Tulip Festival

Source: Jammu & Kashmir TourismDate: 31st March, 2021

Kashmir is all set to host the famous Tulip Festival that will begin from April 3 to celebrate the arrival of spring and promote tourism in the state. This six-day festival will also see a lot of cultural activities to familiarise visitors with the valley's rich old traditions. As per an official, the fest will be inaugurated by Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha. Apart from this, The festival will showcase the houseboats at the famous Dal Lake, owing to their iconic value for travellers. According to media reports, summers might see other major events in the valley

Amarnath Yatra 2021: Registration of pilgrims to start from April 1

Source: Date: 30th March, 2021

Registration for the upcoming annual pilgrimage to the Himalayan cave shrine of Amarnath in south Kashmir is going to start from April 1, an official said on Saturday. The 56-day yatra to the 3,880-metre-high shrine is scheduled to start from the twin routes of Pahalgam and Baltal on June 28 and culminate on August 22. "The registration will start from April 1 for both the routes through 446 designated bank branches of the Punjab National Bank (316), the Jammu and Kashmir Bank (90) and the YES Bank (40), all over the country," Chief Executive Ocer (CEO) of the Sri Amarnathji Shrine

Nepal scraps quarantine policy for vaccinated tourists

Source: Nepal TourismDate: 30th March, 2021

Nepal has introduced new travel rules for COVID vaccinated travellers, and one among them is removing quarantine policy for fully-vaccinated foreign travellers. People who have received both doses of COVID-19 vaccine are not required to quarantine any more. The decision was taken to boost travel and tourism in the pandemic-hit country. As per new travel protocols, Nepal's Tourism Ministry said that vaccinated foreign tourists entering Nepal need to submit a negative PCR test report form within 72 hours prior to departure. They also need to submit documents proving that both doses of vaccin

Odisha's Annual Lit Fest

Source: Date: 28th March, 2021

Kalinga Literary Festival will be held between July 31 and August 1. Keeping in mind the pandemic situation, the Kalinga Literary Festival this year will introduce ‘KLF Bhava Samvad’ which will be held virtually. The event aims to bring together luminaries from different areas of culture, literature, business, spirituality and law. Some of this year's names include Amitav Ghosh, Bibek Debroy, Amish Tripathi, Arundhati Subramanian, Devdutt Pattanaik, Sandeep Agarwal and Meghnad Desai. The event is held every year by Odisha Diary Foundation (ODF) & Rythm Fe

JetSetGo Aviation rolls out exciting offers for Holi

Source: OT StaffDate: 27th March, 2021

India’s largest private jet and helicopter fleet service provider JetSetGo Aviation has rolled out some exciting offers. The company has introduced new offers on helicopter services from Delhi, Mumbai and Dehradun. Here’s the price listing for JetSetGo operational Helicopter service points. From Delhi to: Varanasi starting from Rs4,75,000 in 2.5 hours Mathura and Vrindavan starting from Rs3,25,000 in 1.5 hours Rishikesh starting from Rs3,25,000 in 1.15 hours Pushkar starting from Rs5,50,000 in 2.5 hours Amritsar starting from Rs5,75,000 in 1.45 hours Haridwar starting fro

Dominica is offering 18-month visa to remote workers

Source: Date: 27th March, 2021

As per the latest news reports, the island nation is inviting remote workers and digital nomads to bring their work-from-home setup to the Caribbean. It recently launched Work in Nature (WIN) extended-stay visa, through which visitors can opt to relocate to Dominica for up to 18 months. Here, visitors will find cascading waterfalls, volcanoes, rain forests, natural hot water springs, apart from sandy beaches, and the Caribbean's first long-distance hiking trail. These features have earned Dominica its nickname, Nature Isle of the Caribbean. Under this program, b

Thailand to reopen Phuket to vaccinated tourists from July

Source: Thailand TorismDate: 27th March, 2021

Thailand has permitted foreigners who have been vaccinated against Covid to enter Phuket without having to undergo mandatory hotel quarantine. Yuthasak Supasorn, the governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand, who prefers to call this experiment the ‘Phuket sandbox model’, said that the exercise would begin from July onwards. By July, the authorities expect to inoculate almost 70 per cent of the population in Phuket. Supasorn also announced that from April onwards, the current hotel quarantine period of 14 days will be halved to seven days for fully vaccinated visitors to Chian

Srinagar’s Famous Tulip Garden Is Now Open To Public

Source: OT StaffDate: 26th March, 2021

Between the months of March and May, when the tulips are ready to bloom, Srinagar hosts the magical Tulip Festival on the foothills of the Zabarwan mountains overlooking the Dal Lake and located at an altitude of 5,600 ft. The 15-day festival not only hosts a variety of tulips in every colour, but has an array of blooming daffodils, hyacinths, roses, ranculi, muscaria and iris as well. The garden has seven terraces, and each terrace has a different variety of tulips. The garden is open from 9am to 7pm daily. The tickets, for children and adults, are Rs 25 and Rs 50, respectively.

Haryana Government Plans to Introduce a Heli-taxi to Give Pinjore Aviation Club New Wings

Source: Date: 26th March, 2021

The Haryana government plans to introduce a helicopter taxi service from Pinjore to revive its aviation club. Haryana chief minister Manohar Lal Khattar spoke with the aviation sector’s stakeholders at a high-level meeting recently of the Integrated Planning Committee. During the meeting, the CM asked the officers of the civil aviation sector to chalk out plans and prepare a feasibility report for starting the heli-taxi service from Pinjore on the pattern of Chandigarh. The officers of the departments concerned have been asked to prepare a plan to start the Heli Taxi service at the

Snowfall in Himachal Pradesh

Source: OT StaffDate: 26th March, 2021

Tourists in Himachal Pradesh had a pleasant surprise with unexpected snowfall. The higher regions of Himachal Pradesh witnessed heavy snowfall this week. So much so that the Atal Tunnel across the Rohtang Pass was closed off to avoid heavy traffic. Kullu, Shimla, Mandi and Chamba are among the districts that experienced heavy rainfall, snowfall and freezing temperatures. The administrative headquarters of Lahaul and Spiti district experienced snowfall that reached upto 4cm. A small town in Kinnaur district, Kalpa, also received 5cm of snow, along with Keylong. The state's middle an

The Singapore Tourism Board Has Now Launched The King Of All Virtual Tours Ever!

Source: Singapore TourismDate: 25th March, 2021

The Singapore Tourism Board is all set to launch four live streams, called Singapore by Stream, that will enable people watching from around the world to visit and experience the popular as well as hidden spots of Singapore. In this choose-your-own-adventure video, all people need to do is tell their destination and a virtual taxi will take them to their destination. Explaining the concept, the tourism board in a statement said. "The taxi driver and a host will help give an insider guide to Singapore, sharing tips on where to find the best chicken satay and kaya toast (spoiler alert

Dubai Food Festival is Back

Source: OT StaffDate: 25th March, 2021

For a city known for its nightlife and snazzy dining scene throbbing in its swanky hotels and malls and breathtaking architectural delights, it's only natural that one wait for its much-vaunted food festival with bated breath. And that wait is over now—the Dubai Food Festival is here to take you through the city's pulsating culinary accomplishments, from high-end dining to creative food concepts and undiscovered delights and tantalising up-and-comers. So, get those lips smacking already. This 24-day-long celebration of food will kick off tomorrow, that is March 25, and run until

Jammu Tourism to Organize 'Fulkari-2021

Source: Jammu TourismDate: 24th March, 2021

The Directorate of Tourism, Jammu is organising 'Fulkari-2021’, a festival of folk, colours and music on March 27-28. The event will showcase Jammu as a heritage, cultural, literary and pilgrimage destination of India. Explaining he said that the first day of event March 27 includes adventure activities like MTB from Surinsar to Mansar, Nature Walk, Live Painting Competition, etc. In the evening there would be an ethnic fashion show along with celebrity performance by famous Punjabi singer Rohanpreet Singh. “The second day of event includes live musical performance by Afsana

Indian Railways announces more Holi Special Trains!

Source: Date: 24th March, 2021

IRCTC Holi Special Trains: Indian Railways announces more Holi Festival Special Trains! In a bid to clear the extra rush of traffic during the forthcoming festival of Holi this month as well as to ensure better convenience to travellers, the Western Railway zone has decided to run Holi Special train services between Bandra Terminus – Jaipur, Bandra Terminus – Bhagat Ki Kothi, Surat – Muzaffarpur as well as Udhna – Madgaon. According to the national transporter, these Holi special trains will run as fully reserved train services on special fare. The train tickets ca

Multi-Entry Tourist Visas For All Nationalities Approved by UAE

Source: Emirates TourismDate: 23rd March, 2021

As per the latest news developments, the UAE Cabinet has approved a proposal for multiple tourist entry visas for all nationalities. This move comes in the wake of reviving tourism in the Emirates. Reportedly, the cabinet also approved 'Virtual Visa', which is a new visa category that will enable people to work online from Dubai irrespective of where their office is located. As the multiple entry tourist visa facility will be made available for all nationalities, this visa will come with a validity of 90 days, which will restrict re-entry after the expiry of approved three months valid

Nature Safari, Cabin car ropeway at Rajgir to be inaugurated on Mar 26

Source: Date: 22nd March, 2021

Nature Safari, first of its kind in the country, will be opened for the visitors on March 26 at Rajgir. Chief Minister Nitish Kumar will inaugurate the Safari. Besides, the much-awaited cabin car ropeway at Ratnagiri hills too will be launched on the occasion. The ropeway which will also be inaugurated by the chief minister on March 26, is an eight-seater cabin car ropeway which has been developed recently by the state tourism department to offer the tourists a more convenient and safer air journey to the Vishwa Shanti Stupa located atop the Ratnagiri hills at Rajgir. Neeraj Kumar Singh, fore

Kashmir is all set to have a successful spring tourist season

Source: Jammu & Kashmir TourismDate: 22nd March, 2021

With the opening of the historic Badamwari garden, tulip garden and shikara rides, the Jammu and Kashmir government is geared up for a successful spring tourist season. Recently, the Jammu and Kashmir Tourism department had organised roadshows in different states of the country including Poona, Kolkata, Bengaluru and Jaipur, said Tourism Director Ghulam Nabi Itoo Wali Mohamad, the president of Shikara Association said that they are hopeful that a large number of people will come to the state for vacation and enjoy the beauty of Dal lake. Tour and travel operator Hafeez Shawl said several

Lakshadweep is Launching Cruise Ship Tourism

Source: Date: 20th March, 2021

Lakshadweep (it means "a hundred thousand islands"), India's smallest Union Territory, is planning to launch cruise tourism. According to a report in IANS, the Home Ministry's 'action taken' report says that "the Lakshadweep administration attaches utmost importance to cruise line tourism in the islands. To develop cruise tourism in islands, the Lakshadweep administration has prepared a proposal for the fabrication of a dedicated tourist ship. Lakshadweep administration has also prepared a draft policy for promotion and tourism in the UT.” U

Air India to operate new flights to Singapore, Moscow and Brisbane from March 26 onwards

Source: Date: 20th March, 2021

Indian state carrier Air India has announced new flights to international destinations around the globe including Singapore, Brisbane and Moscow starting a week from today. The airline will operate flights between India and Singapore from March 28 to October 30, 2021, on Bengaluru-Chennai-Singapore, Mumbai-Singapore, and Delhi-Singapore sectors. The flight on the Bengaluru-Singapore route via Chennai will be operational every Wednesday. Flights on the Mumbai-Singapore route will be operated on Monday and Friday, and on Thursday and Sunday for the Delhi-Singapore route. On March 26, 2021, the

Bali may reopen to tourists in June

Source: Indonesian TourismDate: 19th March, 2021

Foreign tourists may be able to visit Bali again as soon as June under a travel corridor program to help revive the economy, according to Indonesian Tourism Minister Sandiaga Uno. Ubud, Sanur and Nusa Dua are major holiday spots in Bali included in a pilot project to begin receiving foreign travelers in mid-June or July, under strict health protocols, said Uno. The government may allow a chartered flight to bring in overseas travellers under the pilot project, which will be closely monitored and evaluated every two weeks, said Uno

Disneyland to reopen its gates on April 30 with safety protocols in place

Source: Date: 19th March, 2021

Walt Disney Co. plans to reopen its two California theme parks on April 30. Disneyland and Disney California Adventure, which closed their gates on March 14 last year, are among the last of the company’s properties to welcome back customers. While Disney’s Paris resort is still shuttered, the four theme parks in Florida have been open since July. Hotels in California start reopening on April 29, the company said Wednesday. Disney will be watching movie theater attendance closely over the coming weeks to decide whether to stick with the May 7 release date for “Black Widow,&r

Iceland has announced to re-open its borders

Source: OT StaffDate: 19th March, 2021

Iceland has announced that from the next week onwards, it will open its borders for tourists coming from outside Europe as it seeks to attract more tourists to help revive its pandemic-hit economy. However, this applies to only those who have been vaccinated for COVID-19. Also, visitors must provide proof of vaccination with a vaccine that has been certified by the European Medicines Agency, which excludes Chinese and Russian vaccines. Until now, the country's international borders were closed for passengers outside EU, EFTA, EEA and the Schengen area. Under the rules, people

After Covid hiatus, domestic cruise sector to restart by May

Source: Date: 18th March, 2021

The New York-based Sant Chatwal Group is the latest entrant in India’s cruise industry as it unveils plans to start cruises between Goa, Mumbai, Lakshwadeep and Sri Lanka under the Cordelia Cruises brand, formerly Jalesh cruises. Cordelia Cruises has announced that it plans to start sailing from May onwards. However, sources pointed out that India had just begun to test the waters when the pandemic dealt a knock-out punch to both the firms that started cruises between Goa and Mumbai — Jalesh Cruises and Angriya Cruises. At present Angriya Cruises is operating as a mid-se

Good news for the city's business and industry

Source: Date: 18th March, 2021

After a gap of almost a year, international flight will start operating again from Diamond City. From Saturday, Air India Express started booking for Surat-Sharjah flight which will run twice in a week. The flight will operate on Monday and Thursday from the city. The operations of the flight were discontinued in March last year after Covid-19 outbreak. The flight will come from Sharjah on March 28 and return to Sharjah on the next day. It is the only international flight the city has and people were desperately waiting for it,” said Sanjay Jain, a member of We Work for a Working Airpor

British Airways is planning to shift the aircrafts used for long-haul destinations to short-haul destinations

Source: OT StaffDate: 17th March, 2021

After a long haul on travel restrictions, British Airways is all set to resume its services again. The airlines will be operating its biggest airplanes to for travellers in Europe. Due to the high demand, the airline is planning to shift the aircrafts used for long-haul destinations to short-haul destinations. Instead of one aisle, they have two and can carry twice many as people. Prime Minister Boris Johnson has announced that from May 17, Britons would be able to fly abroad again. Travellers who have been vaccinated, or have their negative COVID-19 reports,

Singapore may reopen borders for leisure and business travel by year-end

Source: Singapore TourismDate: 17th March, 2021

Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong said in a TV interview he hoped Singapore would start re-opening its borders by the end of the year as more countries ramp up vaccination drives against Covid-19 infections. "I hope if that many countries can have substantial proportions of their populations vaccinated by later this year, we will be able to have the confidence and to have developed the systems to open up our international borders to travel safely again," Lee said in an interview with BBC that aired on Sunday. "Hopefully by the end of this year or next year, the doors ca

SpiceJet has announced night flights from Srinagar

Source: OT StaffDate: 16th March, 2021

SpiceJet has become the second airline to announce night flights from Srinagar beginning March 28. In an announcement on March 13, an airline official said that a Srinagar-Kolkata flight is scheduled from Srinagar at 7:40 pm, beginning from March 28. According to a report in Greater Kashmir, a SpiceJet spokesperson said: “This flight is scheduled and available for booking. The report quotes the Director AAI, Srinagar, Santosh Dhoke, as saying that the aerodrome was ready to handle night flights. And that an announcement for the night flight operations at the Srinagar Airport was

SpiceJet to add 66 new flights to domestic network from Mar 28

Source: Date: 15th March, 2021

No-frills carrier SpiceJet on Saturday said it will add 66 new flights, including additional services on certain routes, in its domestic network from March 28. These new flights, which will be operated with Boeing 737s and regional jet Bombardier Q400s, are aimed at augmenting connectivity between metro and non-metro cities as part of its enhanced network. In a bid to support the increasing travel demand from smaller cities which were initially connected by SpiceJet under UDAN scheme, the airline has introduced new flights connecting Darbhanga, Durgapur, Jharsuguda, Gwalior and Nashik with so

Rajgir zoo safari to open next month

Source: Tourism of BiharDate: 14th March, 2021

The tourism minister of Bihar, Narayan Prasad, on Friday said that the state-of-the-art zoo safari at Rajgir, developed by the forest department, would be thrown open to the visitors next month. “Modern ropeway facilities would come up at Rajgir, Mandar Hill in Banka district, Rohtasgarh in Rohtas, Mundeshwari Hill in Kaimur district, Vanabar Jill in Jehanabad and Brahmayoni Hill, Dungeshwari Hill and Pretshila hill in Gaya district. The ropeway facilities will promote religious tourism and generate employment,” Prasad said. He added the tourism facilities are being improved at Pa

Annual Amarnath yatra to start on June 28

Source: Date: 14th March, 2021

The annual Amarnath yatra to the 3,880-metre high cave shrine in the south Kashmir Himalayas will commence on June 28 and culminate, as per the tradition, on the day of Raskha Bandhan festival on August 22, officials said on Saturday. They said the registration process for the yatra would begin on April 1 through 446 designated branches of Punjab National Bank, Jammu and Kashmir Bank and YES bank in 37 states and Union Territories.

Avoiding flights for fear of Covid? This airline has Rs 299 virus test to convince you

Source: Date: 13th March, 2021

SpiceJet Ltd., India’s second-largest carrier, is offering coronavirus screening to passengers for as little as 299 rupees ($4). That’s about one-third the current market rate. SpiceHealth, the unit selling the tests, has also set up mobile-testing facilities for the general public in Mumbai and New Delhi, where starting from 499 rupees, people can come in or have a sample collected from their home.

Mauritius is offering free vaccine to long-term travellers

Source: Mauritius TourismDate: 13th March, 2021

Mauritius has announced expansion of its COVID-19 vaccination programme to include long-term international visitors who are over the age of 18. Mauritius has been offering free renewable long-term visas, and has now added another perk to facilitate their stay in the island nation. Reportedly, those willing to stay longer here will be included in the said vaccination drive. Regarding the vaccine program, Mauritius stated that it will be providing all Premium Visa holders, who are more than 18 years old, with the Oxford-AstraZeneca Covishield vaccine manufactured in India. However, to qualify

Kedarnath Temple to reopen to devotees on May 17, Badrinath on May 18

Source: Uttarakhand TourismDate: 13th March, 2021

The portals of Kedarnath Temple, which was closed on November 16 last year, will be reopened for devotees at 5 am on May 17, a spokesperson of the Uttarakhand Char Dham Devasthanam Management Board said on Thursday. Badrinath Temple, which was closed on November 19, will reopen to devotees on May 18, the spokesperson said. Gangotri and Yamunotri temples will reopen on May 14.

Now Get Complimentary 5-Star Hotel Stay on Dubai Flight Bookings

Source: Date: 12th March, 2021

Passengers travelling to Dubai on Emirates Airlines can enjoy a complimentary 5-star hotel stay under the new list of benefits from the airlines. One can also avail special fares and free additional 10kg baggage allowance on the ticket bookings. The hotel stay will be at the 5-star JW Marriott Marquis Dubai from 15 March to 30 June 2021 for two nights for Business Travellers and one night for Economy Travellers. Travellers will have to book tickets to Dubai from 8 to 28 March 2021 for travel between 15 March and 30 June 2021 to be eligible for complimentary stay at the JW Marriot Marquis. How

Thailand introduces yacht quarantine to boost tourism

Source: Thailand TorismDate: 12th March, 2021

Those visiting Thailand can now opt to spend their mandatory two-week Coronavirus quarantine on a yacht. Thailand is offering this option to visitors, with hope that this initiative will help bring 1.8 billion baht in yacht tourism revenue. As per the reports, those wanting to avail this option will be required to show proof of a negative PCR test, and also have their location and health monitored. Now, it is expected that around 100 yachts will be a part of this program, which is currently taking place in Phuket. Reportedly, those choosing this option, will be required to wear a smart wrist

Greece To Reopen To Tourists From May

Source: Greece TourismDate: 11th March, 2021

Tourism is a major income earner for Greece, which has led calls for an EU-wide vaccination certificate to help unlock travel. ''Greece is ready with a complete protocol for summer 2021," Theocharis said. "Tourists will be welcome if before travel they are either vaccinated, or have antibodies, or test negative. All tourists will be subject to random testing."

Hong Kong Tourism Board prepares for reopening of travel

Source: Hong Kong Tourism BoardDate: 10th March, 2021

The Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) has announced its plan to prepare for the recovery of tourism and the resumption of international travel. The short-term strategy will focus on encouraging back international visitors to Hong Kong as soon as possible. When borders reopen and global travel resumes, HKTB will launch ‘Open House Hong Kong,’ a campaign designed to restore visitor arrivals through tactical offers and exclusive experiences. In the medium-to-long-term, HKTB is conducting a holistic review of Hong Kong’s tourism brand and positioning.

Tourists can now enjoy paragliding, river rafting in Himachal Pradesh

Source: Himachal TourismDate: 10th March, 2021

In a bid to promote adventure tourism in Himachal Pradesh, the authorities have allowed adventure activities such as paragliding and river rafting. Tourists visiting Kangra, Kullu, Mandi, Chamba, and Shimla can enjoy these adventure activities like before at the new sites. The same has been stated by the Tourism and Civil Aviation Director Yunus. Himachal’s new scheme, Nai Raahein Nai Manzilein was launched to explore new possibilities for promotion of adventure sports in unexplored areas. The government has established new paragliding sites in various districts. In Kullu, its Pandhara

Thailand to cut quarantine for vaccinated foreigners to 7 days from next month

Source: Thailand ResumeDate: 09th March, 2021

Thailand will reduce mandatory quarantine from 14 to seven days starting April for foreigners arriving in the country who have been vaccinated against the coronavirus, Health Minister Anutin Charnvirankul said on Monday. Vaccinations must be administered within three months of the travel period and travellers will be required to show negative COVID-19 test results, he said, adding that those who have not been inoculated but have COVID-19 free certificates would be quarantined for 10 days.

Jammu and Kashmir: Footfall of 10 lakh passengers at Srinagar Airport in 4 months

Source: Jammu & Kashmir TourismDate: 09th March, 2021

Flight operations had resumed in May last year after a hiatus of three months owing to the outbreak of Covid-19. However, after air traffic resumed, Srinagar Airport witnessed 61 flight arrivals during the month of May. As per Airports Authority of India (AAI) data, the highest number of passenger footfalls at the Srinagar Airport since resumption of air traffic was 218783 in December last year which saw 705 flight. Dhoke said, ''Compared to many other airports with a similar passenger handling capacity, Srinagar Airport has seen a sharp increase in the footfall

Air India announces flights to Italy, Japan, and Toronto

Source: Date: 09th March, 2021

Air India is set to operate additional flights between India and Italy from March 31, 2021, to May 27, 2021. The carrier will fly on the Delhi-Amritsar-Rome sector every Wednesday and Rome-Amritsar-Delhi every Thursday during this period. Air India has also announced flights between India and Japan from March 30, 2021, to October 29, 2021. Flights on the Delhi-Narita route will operate on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday, and that on Narita-Delhi sector will operate on Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday. Additionally, the carrier has announced flights between New Delhi and Toronto from Mar

Kerala Tourism to consider physical KTM in August - September this year

Source: Kerala TourismDate: 09th March, 2021

Kerala Travel Mart (KTM) Society and Kerala Tourism Department will consider holding a physical Kerala Travel Mart some time in August or September this year. Rani George, Principal Secretary - Tourism, Government of Kerala informed this at the valedictory of the first Virtual KTM that concluded on March 5. While the state’s natural beauty, strengths in traditional health and wellness practices, tourism entrenched in inclusiveness and responsible tourism, its culture and heritage, will continue to fascinate the travellers, she said that the entrepreneurs have to look at the expl

Good News for Seychelles Lover

Source: Date: 06th March, 2021

Seychelles will now be open to visitors from across the globe, irrespective of their vaccination status, from March 25 onwards. Soon after the announcement of the air bubble arrangement between India and Seychelles, Indian travellers now have reason enough to cheer. Air Seychelles has announced that it will also be starting twice-weekly direct flights on Thursdays and Sundays from Mumbai to Mahe from April 8 onwards. The flight will depart from Mumbai at 5:15am (IST) and arrive in Mahe at 8:10 am (local time). From Mahe, the flight will depart at 10:10pm (local time) and reach Mumbai at 4:15 a

Where Next? Anand Mahindra's Viral Post asking people to 'Calculate Where to Travel'

Source: News 18Date: 26th November, 2020

When everyone is staying at home due to pandemic, the government of various countries are issuing guidelines in order to prevent spread of Coronavirus. Various health organisations including the WHO have stated that the only prevention against COVID-19 is by avoiding exposure. Even in such trying times business tycoon Anand Mahindra has managed to keep the spirits of people high. In the recent post on Twitter, he has shared a graphic which comprises a fun game. The catch in the game however, is that whatever number you choose your final answer will be number ‘9’. The optio

Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir receive fresh snowfall. Tourism from NCR on rise!

Source: India TodayDate: 19th November, 2020

A few high-altitude areas of Jammu and Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh received snowfall on Tuesday as the temperature dipped in several places in North India - Delhi, Punjab, and Haryana, even as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecast a decline in temperature by two to four degrees Celsius this week. Manali recorded minus 1.5 degrees Celsius, a day receiving heavy snowfall in the upper areas of Himachal Pradesh, while Keylong was the coldest place in the state at minus 6.6 degrees Celsius, as reported by news agency PTI. This is a relief for travel industry which needed

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SpiceJet will not charge any fees for changes done at least 5 days prior to journey

Source: The Economic TimesDate: 19th April, 2021

Covid-19 negative report will be mandatory for Char Dham Yatra 2021

Source: The Economic TimesDate: 19th April, 2021

Haridwar Kumbha kicks off!

Source: Uttarakhand TourismDate: 04th April, 2021

The first space hotel of the world is all set to open in 2027

Source: Space tourismDate: 04th April, 2021

Kashmir Introduced Direct, Evening Flights

Source: Jammu & Kashmir TourismDate: 02nd April, 2021

Tourism Malaysia gears up for border opening, to rope in operators from Ahmedabad

Source: Malaysia TourismDate: 02nd April, 2021

IndiGo starts 14 new flights under Udan scheme

Source: Date: 02nd April, 2021

Jammu and Kashmir to develop 7 new trekking routes in wildlife protected areas

Source: Jammu & Kashmir TourismDate: 01st April, 2021

SpiceJet introduces 'zero change fee' offer on domestic flights

Source: Date: 01st April, 2021

Jamaica seeks to rekindle the romance with new honeymoon promotion

Source: Jamaica Tourist BoardDate: 31st March, 2021

Qatar Airways to return to Mykonos as Greek tourism reopens

Source: Date: 31st March, 2021

Jersey to reopen to UK-mainland travelers from April

Source: Date: 31st March, 2021

New York launches digital COVID vaccine passport

Source: Date: 31st March, 2021

DGCA approves 18,843 flights per week for summer schedule

Source: Date: 31st March, 2021

Maldivian to start first direct flight linking Mumbai-Maafaru

Source: Date: 31st March, 2021

Kashmir All Set For Tulip Festival

Source: Jammu & Kashmir TourismDate: 31st March, 2021

Amarnath Yatra 2021: Registration of pilgrims to start from April 1

Source: Date: 30th March, 2021

Nepal scraps quarantine policy for vaccinated tourists

Source: Nepal TourismDate: 30th March, 2021

Odisha's Annual Lit Fest

Source: Date: 28th March, 2021

JetSetGo Aviation rolls out exciting offers for Holi

Source: OT StaffDate: 27th March, 2021

Dominica is offering 18-month visa to remote workers

Source: Date: 27th March, 2021

Thailand to reopen Phuket to vaccinated tourists from July

Source: Thailand TorismDate: 27th March, 2021

Srinagar’s Famous Tulip Garden Is Now Open To Public

Source: OT StaffDate: 26th March, 2021

Haryana Government Plans to Introduce a Heli-taxi to Give Pinjore Aviation Club New Wings

Source: Date: 26th March, 2021

Snowfall in Himachal Pradesh

Source: OT StaffDate: 26th March, 2021

The Singapore Tourism Board Has Now Launched The King Of All Virtual Tours Ever!

Source: Singapore TourismDate: 25th March, 2021

Dubai Food Festival is Back

Source: OT StaffDate: 25th March, 2021

Jammu Tourism to Organize 'Fulkari-2021

Source: Jammu TourismDate: 24th March, 2021

Indian Railways announces more Holi Special Trains!

Source: Date: 24th March, 2021

Multi-Entry Tourist Visas For All Nationalities Approved by UAE

Source: Emirates TourismDate: 23rd March, 2021

Nature Safari, Cabin car ropeway at Rajgir to be inaugurated on Mar 26

Source: Date: 22nd March, 2021

Kashmir is all set to have a successful spring tourist season

Source: Jammu & Kashmir TourismDate: 22nd March, 2021

Lakshadweep is Launching Cruise Ship Tourism

Source: Date: 20th March, 2021

Air India to operate new flights to Singapore, Moscow and Brisbane from March 26 onwards

Source: Date: 20th March, 2021

Bali may reopen to tourists in June

Source: Indonesian TourismDate: 19th March, 2021

Disneyland to reopen its gates on April 30 with safety protocols in place

Source: Date: 19th March, 2021

Iceland has announced to re-open its borders

Source: OT StaffDate: 19th March, 2021

After Covid hiatus, domestic cruise sector to restart by May

Source: Date: 18th March, 2021

Good news for the city's business and industry