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Royal Jordanian Airlines launches new nonstop Mumbai–Amman service

Royal Jordanian Airlines has officially launched a new nonstop service between Amman’s Queen Alia International Airport (AMM) and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport in Mumbai (BOM), with the inaugural flight taking off on June 19, 2025. Operating year-round, the service will run four times a week, on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays, utilizing the modern Airbus A320neo aircraft. This strategic addition strengthens connectivity between India and Jordan and offers seamless onward travel to over 50 destinations across the Middle East, Gulf, and North Africa. The new route will open the door for Indian tourists to experience one of the world’s most extraordinary destinations. With Royal Jordanian’s seamless access to the Kingdom, passengers from Mumbai can now exploRJordan through an unforgettable journey. In just three or seven days, visitors can witness the breathtaking rose-red city of Petra, one of the Seven Wonders of the World—float in the healing waters of the Dead Sea, and explore the dramatic desert landscapes of Wadi Rum, positioning Jordan as a contemporary, truly authentic Arabia five hours away from India. Whether driven by history, nature, or a passion for discovery, Jordan promises Indian travelers an enriching escape filled with beauty, culture, and unmatched hospitality. “With direct access to Jordan, a captivating country rich in history and culture, passengers can now easily explore Jordan’s inspiring landscapes. This expansion reflects our dedication to showcasing Jordan’s unique allure to tourists, inviting them to uncover its hidden gems, immerse themselves in its vibrant traditions, and experience the renowned hospitality that awaits every visitor,” stated Chief Commercial Officer of Royal Jordanian, Karim Makhlouf. Royal Jordanian’s new route to Amman offers more than just added convenience; it serves as a vibrant bridge between India and Jordan, connecting travelers to the heart of a land where ancient wonders and modern vitality coexist in harmony. With this launch, Indian tourists can now explore Jordan’s captivating history, breathtaking landscapes, and dynamic culture more easily than ever before, as they will be eligible for visa-free entry when booking tourist packages. Isha Goyal, CEO of STIC Travel Group, shared her enthusiasm on the launch of Royal Jordanian’s Mumbai–Amman service on 19th June, saying, “The new direct service between Mumbai and Amman is more than just a flight, it is a bridge between two ancient civilizations and a gateway for deeper tourism, trade, and cultural exchange. Jordan holds a distinctive place in the Levant region, and as a longstanding friend of India, this long-awaited route marks a significant step in bringing our countries closer. This milestone reflects STIC Travel’s continued commitment to forging strategic airline partnerships built on trust, shared vision, and service excellence. We look forward to introducing Indian travellers to the richness and beauty of Jordan, an inspiring and still largely untapped destination.” As the airline of choice for convenient and seamless global travel, Royal Jordanian offers travellers from Mumbai smooth connections not only to Jordan but also onward to more than 50 destinations across the Middle East, Europe, North Africa, the United States, and Canada. With attractive fares, well-timed schedules, and a reputation for comfort and reliability, passengers can enjoy a streamlined travel experience across continents. As a proud member of the oneworld airline alliance since 2007, Royal Jordanian ensures access to a global network of premium services and destinations, making international travel from India more accessible and enjoyable than ever before.

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Carnival Cruise to launch ‘Carnival Rewards’ loyalty program in June 2026

Carnival Cruise Line has announced that it will launch a new loyalty program, adding new features, new ways to earn status, new reward categories and a new name: Carnival Rewards™- Opens in new window. The new program will take effect in June 2026, providing guests plenty of time to learn about the changes while they continue to earn status in the current Very Important Fun Person (VIFP)™ program that will be their entry point into the new program. Carnival Rewards is introducing a dual-earning structure where guests accumulate both Carnival Rewards points that can be redeemed on Carnival purchases and status qualifying stars that will determine a guest’s tier status. Instead of focusing solely on the number of nights guests sail, which is the model Carnival- Opens in new window currently follows under its VIFP program, Carnival Rewards will offer more opportunities to earn rewards and achieve higher status levels based on spend, including cruise fare and onboard activities. The new program will be closely tied to everyday spending on the co-branded credit card with Barclays – the Carnival Rewards Mastercard – giving cardmembers the opportunity to earn points and status even faster. More details on the credit card will be announced later. “The evolution of our loyalty program to Carnival Rewards represents our commitment to creating more meaningful recognition for our valued guests. Our current VIFP program has served us well for many years and while we’ve enjoyed truly extraordinary growth in our loyal customer base, it has become challenging to deliver the exceptional experience our Diamond and Platinum members deserve,” said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line. Guests will earn Carnival Reward points as well as status qualifying stars on every eligible Carnival purchase, including cruise fares and onboard purchases. The dual structure gives guests more control over their rewards and status. Points can be redeemed for almost anything Carnival offers including onboard activities, spa treatments, specialty dining and even toward a future cruise. Stars introduce a new way to unlock higher status among four tiers: Red, Gold, Platinum and Diamond. Status is earned over a two-year period and retained for the following two years. As part of the transition to Carnival Rewards’ launch on June 1, 2026, members’ existing status will carry over and serve as a new entry point into the program for a two-year period through May 31, 2028. Diamond members will retain their status for a six-year period through May 31, 2032. This ensures that all current loyalty status is honored while giving members time to familiarize themselves with the enhanced rewards. Guests will continue earning VIFP status as usual until the new program launches. In addition, upon launch of the Carnival Rewards program, current cardmembers, as well as any new cardmembers between now and the launch of the updates, will have the balance of their Fun Points converted to Carnival Rewards points in their Carnival Rewards account.

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Cygnett Hotels and Resorts expands in Uttar Pradesh with new signings in Kanpur and Vrindavan

Cygnett Hotels and Resorts continues its aggressive expansion in Uttar Pradesh with the signing of two new properties, Cozzet Kanpur and Cygnett Inn Vrindavan. These additions represent an important step forward in the company’s ambitious growth strategy and will strengthen its portfolio of smart and value-driven hotels designed for the modern travellers. As a brownfield project, Cozzet Kanpur is on track to open its doors to guests by the end of this year, bringing a new level of comfort, convenience and cultural flair to the city. On the other hand, Cygnett Inn Vrindavan will welcome guests by early 2027. “The state of Uttar Pradesh is a key market in our expansion strategy as we work towards building a portfolio of 100 hotels in the coming years. We plan to open 10 to 12 properties across Uttar Pradesh over the next two to three years,” said Sarbendra Sarkar, Founder and Managing Director, Cygnett Hotels and Resorts. Cozzet Kanpur will feature 40 well-appointed rooms, blending style and functionality for the modern traveller. The hotel is also set to become a premier destination for events and celebrations with two expansive banquet halls capable of accommodating 8,000 to 10,000 guests, thoughtfully designed with contemporary aesthetics and cutting-edge technology. In terms of its F&B offerings, guests will enjoy a vibrant culinary experience at the hotel’s 60-cover all-day dining restaurant and unwind at the stylish lounge bar. Cygnett Inn Vrindavan will feature 60 well-appointed rooms designed for comfort and convenience, making it an ideal choice for both business and leisure travellers. The hotel will offer a range of modern amenities, including an 80-cover all-day dining restaurant serving a variety of delicious cuisines, a rooftop swimming poo,l and a well-equipped gym for health-conscious guests. To cater to the growing demand for event venues in the region, the hotel will also feature spacious banquet halls with a combined capacity of 600-800 guests, well-positioned for weddings, conferences and social gatherings. With the earlier signing of 50 keys Cozzet Vrindavan, this new addition of Cygnett Inn brings Cygnett’s total inventory in the Divine City of Vrindavan to 100 rooms. Both properties are strategically located with convenient access to key tourist sites. Our expansion in Kanpur and Vrindavan is an extension of our strategy to open properties in both existing and emerging hospitality markets,” added Sarkar. Kanpur is recognised as an industrial hub in North India. The city is also home to several key tourist attractions, including the Kanpur Museum and Bhitargaon Temple. Vrindavan, located in the ‘Braj Bhoomi’ region, is deeply revered for its association with Lord Krishna’s childhood. The group has also established a foothold in Ayodhya, one of Uttar Pradesh’s most significant spiritual destinations. Cozzet is Cygnett’s smart, safe and sensible brand designed for today’s savvy travellers. With an emphasis on value-driven hospitality without compromise on the Cygnetture service, Cozzet offers culturally resonant stays that are both engaging and memorable. Each Cozzet property has a distinct personality and narrative, creating a meaningful connection with every guest. Cygnett Inn is a full-service, midscale hotel brand that combines contemporary design with timeless service. Upholding high standards of cleanliness, comfort and care, every Cygnett Inn stay promises thoughtfully curated amenities, consistent service and warm hospitality.

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China’s Silver Trains: The Ultimate Senior Travel Experience Set to Transform Rail Tourism by 2027

When the “silver-haired express” train left Dalian station in northeast China, 68-year-old Wang Lijuan was ready for a new adventure. Getting aboard for her fifth country-cross rail trip, a 20-day journey that would meander across China’s heartland to Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region’s deserts, she looked back at the unique experience such specialty trains offer. “No hurrying. No schedules. Scenery just passing by,” said Wang, one of 720 retired individuals aboard a train designed exclusively for China’s growing elderly population. The train is part of a countrywide large-scale initiative by the government to redefine retired-life traveling in a country with over 310 million citizens aged 60 and over. The “silver train” initiative mirrors China’s overall plan to serve this population group’s transportation purposes. A joint project by various government ministries this year resulted in formulating plans to introduce 160 age-optimal trains by 2027, serving more than 100 routes in China. The project envisions 2,500 departures each year, more than double last year’s 1,860 trips, when over one million elderly passengers utilized the dedicated rail services. A New Era of Senior Rail Travel: Comfort and Accessibility Unlike conventional tours, these trains operate on a “travel by night, tour by day” model, offering retirees the chance to travel at a more relaxed pace, respecting their physical limits. The aim is to provide a comfortable and leisurely journey that aligns with the needs of older travelers, many of whom are seeking to explore China’s remote and scenic destinations. “The rhythm of the journey respects older travelers’ physical limits,” explained Yang Chunchao, Deputy General Manager at Shanghai Railway International Travel (Group) Co. Ltd. China’s vast rail network, with its interconnected routes stretching across the country, has made it an ideal mode of travel for retirees. The Dalian-Xinjiang route, for instance, connects desert vistas, ancient towns, and vineyard valleys, providing a cultural and scenic journey through multiple provincial-level regions. Li Shuanglong, a representative from China Railway Shenyang Group Co. Ltd., mentioned that the train’s stops are flexible and adapted to the needs of senior passengers. Whether the train is passing through a historical site or a scenic spot, the itinerary is adjusted to ensure that travelers can enjoy their time without feeling rushed. Senior-Friendly Features: Ensuring Safety and Comfort These silver trains aren’t just about leisurely travel; they’re also designed to ensure that seniors feel comfortable and safe throughout their journey. Many of the trains have undergone significant upgrades to cater to elderly passengers, including wider berths, larger bathrooms with emergency call buttons, and anti-slip grips to ensure safety. Onboard medical clinics provide immediate care in case of emergencies, and the train features reading lounges, games tables, and even karaoke rooms to foster a fun, social environment. “Meals on these trains are tailored to seniors’ dietary needs, including options low in salt, oil, and sugar,” noted a representative from China Railway Beijing Group Co. Ltd. Given the diverse dietary restrictions of elderly travelers, these thoughtful adjustments ensure that they remain healthy and well-fed during their travels. Additionally, the staff on these trains are highly trained in senior communication and emergency response. Some train crews have even undergone hospitality training at five-star hotels to better cater to elderly passengers’ needs, ensuring that every aspect of the journey is comfortable and secure. To make the experience even more enjoyable, various cultural activities, such as calligraphy contests, photography workshops, and group singing sessions, are organized during the trips. These initiatives help build a sense of community and provide seniors with opportunities to connect with others on the journey. Expanding Senior Rail Travel: Challenges and Opportunities The silver train initiative is part of a larger trend in China, where active seniors are increasingly seeking to engage in travel. According to the China Tourism Academy, the number of travel-ready seniors is expected to surpass 100 million by late 2025, indicating a growing demand for leisure travel services catering to this demographic. However, despite the initial success, the project faces challenges. According to Li Wenlong, an expert from Inner Mongolia University of Finance and Economics, “Current senior rail products remain largely mass-market, with a dearth of premium offerings.” While the special trains are popular, there is still a lack of high-end services tailored to more affluent retirees, a gap that could be an opportunity for future development. Moreover, while the “silver train” initiative focuses on domestic travel, there is also potential to expand international offerings, especially as the Chinese tourism market continues to grow. Many seniors are now seeking travel experiences abroad, and this presents an opportunity for China’s railway system to consider cross-border journeys and international rail partnerships.

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Canada and Spain have launched historic direct flights between Montreal and Valencia, boosting travel, trade, and tourism between the two regions.

Canada and Spain’s Valencia have officially launched a historic direct air link between Montreal and Valencia, marking a major milestone that fully delivers on the headline by opening a new travel corridor that promises to boost accessibility, stimulate economic growth, and lay the groundwork for long-term tourism collaboration. This new route not only shortens the journey between two culturally rich destinations, but also signals a strategic partnership aimed at deepening tourism ties and expanding market opportunities on both sides of the Atlantic. A new era of transatlantic connectivity began this week as a direct air link between Montreal and Valencia officially took off. The newly launched flight, operated by a major Canadian airline, is expected to play a pivotal role in bridging Canada with Spain’s vibrant Mediterranean coast. Designed to boost international arrivals and foster cultural and economic ties, the route marks a strategic step in expanding long-haul tourism offerings in the region The inauguration of the service was marked by a formal launch event in Montreal, where tourism and aviation stakeholders from both countries gathered to celebrate the occasion. The introduction of this direct connection highlights a renewed commitment to strengthening tourism flows between North America and southern Europe. With travel demand rebounding globally, this move comes at an opportune time for destinations eager to capture international market share. Leaders from the regional tourism sector praised the launch, describing the flight as a “gateway to the Mediterranean” and emphasizing its potential to reshape travel trends in eastern Spain. By eliminating the need for stopovers or complex connections, the route is expected to attract a broader demographic of travelers, including leisure tourists, long-stay visitors, and diaspora communities seeking easier access to their roots. The seasonal route will operate through early October, providing Canadian travelers with direct access to Valencia during the height of the summer and early autumn travel seasons. If demand continues to grow, there is potential to extend the service into the winter of 2026, potentially transforming it into a year-round transatlantic corridor. Such continuity would allow for greater planning flexibility for both tourists and industry operators. Beyond the flight launch, the visit to Canada includes a packed agenda of industry meetings aimed at reinforcing the region’s tourism outreach in the Canadian market. Officials are engaging with tour operators, travel agencies, and marketing partners to position Valencia as a leading destination for cultural, coastal, and urban experiences. These conversations are focused on creating tailored travel packages that showcase the region’s diverse appeal. As part of a broader strategy to grow non-European visitor numbers, regional tourism planners are also looking south of the Canadian border. Discussions are currently underway with a leading U.S. airline to reintroduce direct flights between the United States and Valencia. These connections were once active over a decade ago but were discontinued due to low frequency and logistical constraints. Reestablishing them could unlock major tourism growth opportunities. Plans also include the possibility of expanding direct U.S. service to Alicante-Elche Airport, which serves as a secondary gateway to Spain’s southeastern coast. Adding long-haul flights to this airport would diversify arrival points for North American tourists and relieve pressure on Valencia’s airport during peak seasons. Such connectivity improvements form a central part of the region’s vision for sustainable tourism expansion. The new flight represents more than just a transportation milestone—it symbolizes a strategic investment in destination development. With tourism acting as a major economic driver for the region, increased international arrivals can lead to job creation, small business growth, and stronger cultural exchange. This initiative aligns with long-term goals of promoting year-round tourism and reducing seasonal fluctuations in visitor numbers. Travel industry experts believe that the direct link will have a multiplier effect across various sectors. Hotels, restaurants, museums, transport providers, and local artisans are all likely to benefit from the influx of Canadian and potentially American visitors. The direct access also makes the region more competitive compared to other Mediterranean destinations that rely on connecting flights or less frequent service.

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U.S. resumes student visa processing but demands access to social medi

The US State Department told embassies and consulates they must vet student visa applicants for “hostile attitudes towards our citizens, culture, government, institutions, or founding principles,” but said they should resume appointments that were paused in late May. The new guidance was sent to US diplomatic posts worldwide in a cable seen by CNN on Wednesday. It says the vetting will look at student and exchange visa applicants’ “entire online presence.” Applicants will be asked to set their social media profiles to public as part of the new vetting, and the cable notes that “limited access to, or visibility of, online presence could be construed as an effort to evade or hide certain activity.” It comes as the Trump administration has taken significant actions that are likely to deter international students from coming to the US. It has aggressively revoked student visas and specifically targeted Harvard University. The US State Department told embassies and consulates they must vet student visa applicants for “hostile attitudes towards our citizens, culture, government, institutions, or founding principles,” but said they should resume appointments that were paused in late May. The new guidance was sent to US diplomatic posts worldwide in a cable seen by CNN on Wednesday. It says the vetting will look at student and exchange visa applicants’ “entire online presence.” Applicants will be asked to set their social media profiles to public as part of the new vetting, and the cable notes that “limited access to, or visibility of, online presence could be construed as an effort to evade or hide certain activity.” It comes as the Trump administration has taken significant actions that are likely to deter international students from coming to the US. It has aggressively revoked student visas and specifically targeted Harvard University. The guidance, which applies to both new and returning applicants for student and exchange visas, formally known as F, M, and J visas, calls for “a review of the applicant’s entire online presence – not just social media activity – using any appropriate search engines or other online resources,” including “a check of any databases to which the consular section has access.” The guidance, first reported by the Free Press, does not give details of what constitutes “hostile attitudes towards our citizens, culture, government, institutions, or founding principles.” The cable says embassies and consulates should implement the new vetting within five business days. They “should resume scheduling FMJ appointments but should consider the effect of this guidance on workload and schedule accordingly.” It is unclear if embassies and consulates will be able to process as many visas as before, given the new vetting standards. They should prioritize expedited visa appointment requests for “J-1 physicians (and) F-1 students seeking to study at a U.S. university where international students constitute 15 percent or less of the total student population, according to the U.S. Department of Education.” The new vetting, the cable states, is being implemented to ensure “that aliens seeking admission to the United States are screened and vetted to the maximum extent possible and that they will respect the terms of their admission to the United States.” It notes that such vetting is particularly important for these applicants, noting that “the FBI has long warned that foreign powers seek access to American higher education institutions to, among other things, steal technical information, exploit U.S. research and development, and spread false information for political or other reasons.”

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