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Air India scales up Kathmandu, Colombo, and Bangkok routes to meet surging demand

Air India has added more flights to Bangkok, Colombo, and Kathmandu to meet the growing passenger demand. Effective July 7, 2025, Air India will increase its Delhi-Kathmandu services from 35 to 42 weekly flights with the addition of a sixth daily flight. The Delhi-Colombo route will see a doubling of frequency, from 7 to 14 weekly flights, while Mumbai-Bangkok will expand from 13 to 18 weekly flights with the introduction of a third daily service. This expansion will add over 7,000 seats to and from Bangkok, Colombo, and Kathmandu. The additional flights to Kathmandu and Bangkok will be operated by Air India’s best narrowbody aircraft featuring a three-class cabin configuration, including a Premium Economy Class that offers a premium full-service experience. Air India’s flights to Colombo, Kathmandu, and Bangkok also provide seamless one-stop connectivity to and from key destinations in North America, Europe, and the Far East. With these increases, Air India will operate 42 weekly flights to Kathmandu, 28 to Colombo, and 46 to Bangkok.

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Kashmir To Kanyakumari Now A Reality For Rail Network Too: PM Modi

Katra: The Chenab bridge has become a new milestone in pan-India connectivity, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi remarking that the phrase 'Kashmir to Kanyakumari' has now become a reality even in the Indian railway network. "While walking on the Chenab and Anji bridges today, I lived the lofty aspirations of India and the skill and courage of our engineers and workers," the Prime Minister proudly said at a rally in Katra after inaugurating the two bridges. He also inaugurated the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Line and flagged off Vande Bharat services between Katra and Srinagar, which is expected to be a game-changer for tourism. "We have always invoked Maa Bharati with deep reverence, saying 'from Kashmir to Kanyakumari.' Today, this has become a reality even in our railway network," said PM Modi, referring to Jammu and Kashmir as the "crown jewel of India". The Chenab bridge, the world's highest railway bridge, is an engineering marvel built in the face of extreme weather and a challenging topography. At 359 metres, it is taller than the Eiffel Tower in Paris by 35 metres. "People visit France to see the Eiffel Tower, and this bridge is taller than that. This bridge will not just help you visit Kashmir, it will become a tourist destination itself," he said. PM Modi said the Chenab and Anji bridges will serve as gateways to prosperity for Jammu and Kashmir. "The Chenab and Anji bridges are a living symbol of India's power on the inaccessible hills of Pir Panjal. This is the roar of India's bright future...Kashmir's apples will be able to reach the big markets of the country at a low cost and on time," he said. The Prime Minister also called the 272-km USBRL project a symbol of an empowered Jammu and Kashmir and a resounding proclamation of India's growing strength.

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India and U.S. Expand Travel Ties with Delta’s New Nonstop Atlanta–New Delhi Flights

Delta Air Lines is significantly enhancing global connectivity with its groundbreaking nonstop service between Atlanta and New Delhi, marking a pivotal move in strengthening travel links between the United States and India. This new route represents not only Delta’s return to the Indian market but also its strategic expansion to cater to the growing demand for international travel between North America and one of the world’s fastest-growing markets. By offering a direct connection between these two major hubs, Delta is streamlining the travel experience, eliminating layovers and offering more convenient options for business and leisure travelers alike. This new service will play a key role in boosting tourism, business relations, and economic ties between the US and India, making travel more accessible and efficient for millions of passengers across the globe. Delta Air Lines Resumes Service in India with Nonstop Atlanta-New Delhi Flights as Part of Major Strategic Partnership Delta Air Lines, a prominent U.S. carrier, is poised to resume its operations in India with the launch of nonstop flights between Atlanta and New Delhi. This move is part of a broader strategic partnership with IndiGo, Air France-KLM, and Virgin Atlantic, aimed at strengthening global connectivity between India, Europe, and North America. This exciting development promises to offer travelers smoother and more efficient travel options across the globe. Strategic Expansion in the Indian Market The launch of the nonstop flight from Atlanta to New Delhi will mark Delta’s return to the Indian market, following the suspension of its New York-Mumbai service during the COVID-19 pandemic. Delta’s decision to reintroduce flights to India signals its commitment to enhancing international connectivity and expanding its reach to one of the fastest-growing travel markets in the world. India has long been an important destination for both leisure and business travel, and this new service is expected to attract a significant number of passengers between the US and India. Delta, headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, operates its largest hub at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, renowned for handling the highest volume of passengers and departures in the airline’s network. This makes Atlanta a prime launch point for new international routes, including the upcoming nonstop service to New Delhi. The flight will cover a distance of around 12,785 kilometers, making it one of the longest nonstop routes in Delta’s network. The flight is expected to operate several times a week, providing business and leisure travelers with more convenient and efficient options to travel between the two countries. Although the exact launch date has yet to be confirmed, Delta aims to have the service in operation by 2026, pending government approval. The flight will further strengthen Delta’s already extensive international network, connecting passengers not only between North America and India but also facilitating travel across a host of other destinations worldwide. A Powerful Strategic Partnership The launch of the Atlanta-New Delhi service is not just about a new route; it is part of a broader alliance that includes Delta’s collaboration with major global carriers. Through this partnership, Delta, IndiGo, Air France-KLM, and Virgin Atlantic will work together to create a seamless travel experience for passengers traveling between North America, Europe, and India. The integration of these airlines’ networks is expected to offer travelers broader access to key destinations in these regions, simplifying the booking process and expanding flight options. IndiGo, India’s largest low-cost carrier, will benefit from this partnership by tapping into Delta’s well-established North American market. Passengers flying with IndiGo will now be able to book Delta-operated flights under IndiGo’s marketing codes, providing them with convenient access to destinations across North America. Likewise, Delta customers will have the ability to book IndiGo flights across India, strengthening the airline’s domestic connectivity within India. The partnership with Air France-KLM and Virgin Atlantic will also further enhance connectivity, especially for passengers traveling to Europe. IndiGo customers will be able to book KLM flights from Amsterdam to a wide array of European destinations. Additionally, they will have access to Delta and KLM flights between Amsterdam and major North American hubs. Virgin Atlantic’s inclusion in the partnership will allow passengers to book flights from Manchester to the United States, expanding access to UK travelers seeking to visit both India and North America.

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Maldives Sees Surge in Tourist Arrivals as Global Demand for Luxe Tropical Escapes Soars

Tourist Numbers Climb Sharply in 2025 During the early months of 2025, the Maldives has seen a remarkable increase in the number of international visitors. From January 1 to June 3, a total of 979,958 tourists arrived in the country—an 8.4% increase compared to the same period in 2024, when 903,773 arrivals were recorded. This growth trend is not only a strong indicator of renewed global travel confidence but also a testament to the Maldives’ status as a luxury getaway. Monthly tourist numbers show strong figures in the early part of the year. January recorded the highest average daily influx of about 7,646 visitors, followed closely by February at 6,563 per day. March and April maintained steady flows, while May saw a slight seasonal dip, averaging 4,414 tourists each day. June began with renewed momentum, averaging 4,533 daily arrivals. In just the first three days of June, Velana International Airport welcomed 13,600 tourists, marking an 18% growth from the same timeframe in 2024, when 11,530 visitors were received. Daily entries stood at 4,487 on June 1, 4,753 on June 2, and 4,360 on June 3, respectively. Resorts Reign Supreme in Visitor Choices One of the most telling aspects of travel trends to the Maldives in 2025 is the type of accommodation that visitors prefer. A whopping 71.6% of tourists, amounting to 701,764 guests, opted for stays in high-end resorts. This clearly reaffirms the island nation’s strong reputation for luxury hospitality and exclusive experiences. Guesthouses were the second most popular choice, hosting 23% of the travelers. Hotels accounted for 2.9%, while liveaboard vessels—popular among diving and sea exploration enthusiasts—accommodated 2.4%. These numbers reflect a strong preference for privacy and immersive nature-driven luxury that the Maldives is known for. Top Tourist Source Countries in 2025 China has emerged as the largest contributor to Maldives tourism this year, providing 117,874 visitors, which equals 12% of total arrivals. Following closely is Russia, contributing 11% with 107,518 tourists. The United Kingdom secures third place with 99,671 visitors, accounting for 10.2% of the market share. Other countries rounding out the top ten include: Italy with 8.4% and 82,240 arrivals Germany with 7.6% and 74,590 visitors India at 5.8% with 56,429 tourists France contributing 3.5% The United States at 3.1% Switzerland with 2.3% Australia at 1.8% This diversity reflects the Maldives’ broad international appeal, with travelers from both Eastern and Western markets flocking to its shores. Year-on-Year Growth Shows Positive Trajectory The Maldives has consistently recorded rising tourist numbers over the past few years. In 2024, the nation welcomed 2,046,615 tourists, which was a significant leap from the 1,878,543 visitors in 2023. These figures not only show the Maldives’ resilience in a competitive global tourism landscape but also underscore the country’s effective tourism strategies. How This Boom Affects the Travel Sector The uptick in arrivals in 2025 is already having a ripple effect across the global travel ecosystem. Airlines are expanding routes and increasing the frequency of flights to the Maldives, responding to heightened demand from key source countries. The tourism infrastructure is growing rapidly, including airport enhancements, resort expansions, and improved domestic connectivity.

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Palau Welcomes Indian Travelers with 30-Day Visa-Free Entry to Its Pristine Paradise

Palau is making waves in the travel industry by introducing a groundbreaking 30-day visa-free entry program for Indian nationals, setting the stage for an influx of visitors from India. This bold move marks a pivotal moment in the island nation’s diplomatic and tourism relations, as it opens up the doors to one of the most stunning and ecologically preserved destinations on the planet. By eliminating the bureaucratic hurdles traditionally associated with international travel, Palau is now more accessible than ever for Indian tourists seeking a unique blend of adventure, relaxation, and eco-tourism. With its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and abundant marine life, Palau promises an unforgettable experience that is sure to attract a growing number of Indian visitors eager to explore its natural beauty. Palau Introduces 30-Day Visa-Free Access for Indian Citizens: A Boost to Bilateral Tourism and Relations In a significant move to enhance diplomatic relations, the Republic of Palau has introduced a 30-day visa-free entry program for Indian citizens. This new initiative is set to dramatically boost the flow of Indian tourists to the Pacific island nation, recognized worldwide for its exceptional marine biodiversity, untouched landscapes, and historical significance. Situated in the western Pacific Ocean, Palau is renowned as one of the world’s most stunningly beautiful destinations. Known for its UNESCO-listed Rock Islands, crystal-clear waters, and world-class diving spots such as Blue Corner and Jellyfish Lake, the island nation has become a haven for eco-tourists and adventure seekers alike. Additionally, Palau is home to numerous historical sites, including extensive World War II relics that can be found both on land and beneath the sea, making it a unique blend of nature and history.

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Croatia’s Rab Island Offers Golden Beaches, Medieval Charm, and Crowd-Free Coastal Escape

Nestled in the Adriatic Sea, Croatia’s hidden paradise, Rab Island, offers an idyllic escape from the crowded tourist hotspots. Known for its pristine golden beaches, rich medieval history, and unmatched tranquility, this unspoiled destination provides the perfect getaway for those seeking relaxation and cultural immersion. Rab Island’s serene coastal charm and ancient heritage make it a true gem, offering a peaceful retreat without the hustle and bustle of more famous European spots. Whether you’re drawn to its breathtaking beaches or its fascinating historical landmarks, Rab promises an unforgettable experience that will leave you rejuvenated and inspired. Discover the Hidden Gem of Rab Island: A Seaside Paradise in Southern Europe Nestled in the Adriatic Sea, Rab Island is a little-known European paradise that promises travelers a tranquil escape with its golden sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and rich cultural heritage. While popular destinations such as Spain, Italy, and Greece draw crowds from all corners of the globe, Rab offers a peaceful alternative that few British travelers have heard of. With affordable return flights starting at just £60, this unspoiled coastal haven is rapidly becoming a favorite getaway for those in search of quiet relaxation and scenic beauty. Rab Island is located off the coast of Croatia, yet it remains off the radar for most international travelers. While neighboring hotspots like Zadar attract throngs of tourists, Rab stands apart with its quieter pace of life and stunning beaches, providing a rare opportunity to experience authentic Mediterranean living. The island’s coast is lined with soft, golden sand and shallow, warm waters, making it an ideal destination for families, couples, and anyone looking to enjoy the simple pleasures of beach life away from the busy crowds. The island’s most renowned beach, Paradise Beach in Lopar, is often regarded as the crown jewel of Rab. This expansive stretch of sand offers a comfortable and scenic place to relax, with warm, shallow waters perfect for swimming and wading. The beach is backed by lush pine forests, offering a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. For many visitors, it’s a rare treat to experience such a beautiful, uncrowded beach in a country where pebbly shores typically dominate the coastline. While Rab’s beaches may steal the spotlight, the island is also rich in history and culture, offering a fascinating blend of medieval charm and natural beauty. The town of Rab itself is steeped in history, with its skyline defined by four magnificent bell towers that dominate the landscape. These towers, particularly the oldest one dating back to 1181, are reminders of the island’s long and storied past. As visitors stroll through the cobbled streets of Rab, they are transported to another time, where ancient architecture meets the stunning backdrop of the Adriatic Sea. For those eager to dive deeper into Rab’s medieval roots, the island hosts a spectacular annual event known as the Rab Medieval Festival. This celebration of the island’s history brings the past to life through reenactments of knights’ games, medieval music, and local crafts. Held every year from July 25 to 27, the festival attracts both locals and visitors alike, creating an immersive experience that transports attendees to the 14th century. During the festival, Rab Town is transformed into a living museum, with street performances, historical exhibitions, and medieval-themed activities.

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