News

Thailand welcomes over 1 million Indian visitors before mid-year

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has announced that Indian tourist arrivals to Thailand have crossed the 1 million mark before the halfway point of 2025. This milestone validates Thailand’s enduring popularity and growing appeal as a year-round destination among Indian travellers in various segments. As of mid-June 2025, over one million Indian visitors have travelled to Thailand, reflecting a steady increase in outbound travel from India and strong two-way tourism ties. The achievement comes after a record-setting 2024, which saw Thailand welcome more than 35 million international tourists, with India contributing a significant share of 2.1 million arrivals. Thailand’s wide-ranging tourism offerings—from bustling cities and idyllic beaches to spiritual retreats, wellness escapes, and an impressive culinary landscape spanning street food to fine dining—continue to resonate with Indian travellers who value high-quality experiences with prices to suit every pocket. Strengthened by robust air connectivity from across India, a visa exemption scheme permitting stays of up to 60 days, and user-friendly innovations like the recently launched Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC), the arrival experience has become more seamless than ever, ensuring quicker processing and greater convenience. TAT has also observed a rise in demand from emerging Indian markets. Notably, cities like Surat, Rajkot, Nagpur, and Nashik are emerging as promising markets for luxury travel, with a visible uptick in premium bookings, wellness holidays, and bespoke experiences. The Tourism Authority of Thailand remains committed to deepening engagement with the Indian market through tailored campaigns, joint promotions with travel partners, and high-impact trade events and roadshows across the country with a focus to encourage longer stays and quality travel experiences, in line with TAT’s global strategy of promoting high-value, sustainable tourism.

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Marriott International debuts Autograph Collection Hotels in Nepal

Autograph Collection Hotels, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s global portfolio of over 30 extraordinary brands, has made its debut in South Asia with the opening of The Soaltee Kathmandu, Autograph Collection in Nepal. This will be Marriott Bonvoy’s 19th brand in South Asia (India, Bhutan, Nepal, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka). Located in the heart of the city, The Soaltee Kathmandu, Autograph Collection, boasts 285 rooms, including suites, each narrating a unique story – a hallmark of Autograph Collection hotels. The hotel exemplifies the brand’s ethos, beautifully showcasing Kathmandu’s rich history through a refined and sophisticated perspective. Guests will be treated to an authentic sense of place with panoramic views of the majestic Himalayan range, the sacred Swoyambhunath Stupa, and the hotel’s serene, lush gardens. Autograph Collection Hotels are inspired by a clear vision and story that makes each property individual, special, and exactly like nothing else. The brand includes over 300 independent hotels across the world, each hand-selected for their inherent craft, distinct perspective on design and immersive experiences that will leave a lasting impression on guests. The Soaltee Kathmandu, Autograph Collection features “The Storyteller”, a curated installation woven into the hotel’s public spaces – a layered experience that shares the hotel’s legacy through personal stories, historic fragments, and guest contributions, thus being kept alive, guest by guest. “The debut of Autograph Collection Hotels in South Asia with The Soaltee Kathmandu, Autograph Collection is a proud milestone for Marriott International, marking the arrival of our 19th brand in this vibrant region. South Asia continues to be a dynamic growth engine for Marriott International, and the debut of Autograph Collection Hotels in Kathmandu reflects our commitment to expanding into culturally rich leisure destinations. With its deep-rooted legacy and unique character, The Soaltee Kathmandu Autograph Collection perfectly aligns with our vision of delivering immersive, one-of-a-kind stays across the region,” commented Ranju Alex, Regional Vice President, Marriott International – South Asia. Nestled within the city, The Soaltee Kathmandu, Autograph Collection, with its history dating back to 1966, stands as a cornerstone in Nepal’s hospitality history. The hotel’s architecture harmoniously blends contemporary design with traditional Nepalese motifs, reflecting the country’s rich cultural tapestry. Situated on 12 acres of lush, landscaped grounds in Kathmandu’s Tahachal area, the property has long been a preferred destination for dignitaries, celebrities, and travelers seeking luxury and authenticity. The interiors of The Soaltee Kathmandu, Autograph Collection, are infused with local artistry, featuring wooden jaalis, exposed bricks, and traditional Thangka paintings, creating an ambiance that honors Nepalese heritage while embracing modern comfort. Each guest room and suite is meticulously designed, blending traditional Nepali elements with luxurious amenities, high-end furnishings, and contemporary technology, making the hotel a landmark of elegance and a testament to Nepal’s evolving hospitality landscape. Guests at The Soaltee Kathmandu, Autograph Collection, can indulge in a rich culinary journey from Garden Terrace, an all-day dining restaurant serving signature Nepali thali, Kakori offering Awadhi-Indian specialties and chef’s signatures such as Murgh Chapli Kabab, Rogan Nalli and the famous Dal Kakori, to Bao Xuan specializing in authentic Chinese cuisine. Patio offers open-air dining with live music and garden views, while Rodi Bar and the Sports Lounge provide vibrant spaces to relax with drinks and entertainment. The hotel is also equipped with an indulgent spa offering a thoughtful selection of therapeutic and relaxing treatments blending time-honored traditions with modern techniques such as Hot Stone Therapy, Shirodhara, and the Traditional Newari Massage. Complementing the wellness journey, guests can also unwind at the outdoor swimming pool, enjoy a game of tennis on the hotel’s clay court, or work out at the fully equipped, 24-hour fitness center, featuring state-of-the-art facilities. For large-scale gatherings, weddings, and grand celebrations, The Soaltee Kathmandu, Autograph Collection, offers an impressive 25,000 sq. ft. of versatile indoor and outdoor banqueting space. Nestled in a prime location, the hotel is set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Himalayan ranges, providing a stunning and unforgettable setting for any occasion. The hotel remains deeply committed to sustainability initiatives, incorporating eco-friendly practices in its operations. From energy-efficient lighting and heating systems, an in-house water bottling plant that minimizes the use of plastic, an herb garden and water conservation practices to waste reduction initiatives and the increasing use of locally sourced materials. “We are incredibly proud to announce The Soaltee Kathmandu, Autograph Collection as the first Autograph Collection hotel in South Asia. With a legacy spanning over 58 years, this iconic hotel seamlessly blends Nepal’s rich cultural heritage with contemporary luxury. Whether guests are exploring the vibrant city, soaking in the Himalayan beauty, or hosting unforgettable events, the experience is truly distinctive. Guided by Autograph Collection’s brand promise of authenticity and compelling storytelling, we are excited to usher in a new chapter for this landmark property and the brand in the region,” said Avinash Deshmukh, General Manager.

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The Bahamas Reveals Ambitious Tourism Overhaul: A Shift Beyond Beaches to New Experiences

The Bahamas, one of the world’s most famous tourist destinations, is embarking on an ambitious journey to redefine its tourism sector. With a strategic shift to move “beyond the beach,” the government is spearheading initiatives aimed at diversifying the island nation’s tourism offerings. The announcement was made by Chester Cooper, the Bahamas’ Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, during the 2025/26 Budget Debate in the House of Assembly on June 12, 2025. Cooper outlined the government’s long-term vision for the tourism industry, focusing on sustainable growth, increased visitor numbers, and enhanced tourism products across the islands. While the Bahamas has long been associated with its stunning beaches, the government aims to take a more comprehensive approach to tourism that includes a variety of other experiences. These include cultural, heritage, religious, adventure, sports, eco-tourism, space tourism, and tech-tourism. The goal is to shift the country’s tourism sector towards a more diversified, year-round industry that provides a broader range of opportunities for both tourists and the Bahamian people. Tourism Development Corporation (TDC): Key to New Strategy One of the central pillars of this new tourism strategy is the establishment of the Tourism Development Corporation (TDC). Deputy Prime Minister Cooper described the creation of the TDC as one of the most important moves ever made in Bahamian tourism. This new corporation will take on the responsibility of expanding and enhancing tourism products across all of the Bahama islands, from Nassau to the Family Islands. The TDC’s core objectives will be to create high-quality tourism experiences that go beyond traditional beach vacations, opening up the country to new kinds of tourism. Through this, the government seeks to ensure that the economic benefits of tourism are more evenly distributed across all regions of the Bahamas, not just the well-trodden paths to Nassau and Paradise Island. A New Vision for Tourism: ‘Beyond the Beach’ While the beaches of the Bahamas remain a major draw for visitors, the government is keen to push the message that the islands have so much more to offer. Cooper stated, “It’s about going beyond the beach and exploring all that the Bahamas has to offer.” The country’s unique natural beauty, rich cultural history, and vibrant communities provide a perfect setting for new types of tourism that can engage both locals and international visitors alike. In his vision for cultural tourism, Cooper highlighted the significance of the Bahamas’ rich history, including its Indigenous roots, colonial past, and more recent cultural developments. Through the TDC, there are plans to develop museums, art galleries, and cultural tours that will allow visitors to immerse themselves in the Bahamian experience. Heritage tourism will also take centre stage, with initiatives that showcase the country’s historical landmarks, churches, and local traditions. Adventure tourism is also being prioritised as part of the country’s diversification efforts. The Bahamas, with its vast underwater cave systems, coral reefs, and expansive land areas, is well-positioned to offer visitors exciting adventure opportunities, such as hiking, kayaking, diving, and exploration of some of the country’s most remote and pristine locations. Sports tourism is another emerging market, with the Bahamas already hosting international events in sailing, golf, and marathons, which attract participants and spectators from around the globe. The introduction of eco-tourism will highlight the Bahamas’ unique biodiversity and conservation efforts, including sustainable tourism practices. Meanwhile, the country is also exploring space tourism, capitalising on global interest in space exploration and offering unique experiences to those seeking a high-end adventure like no other. Cooper emphasised that developing these tourism avenues will not only boost the country’s appeal but also create jobs and new business opportunities for Bahamians, ensuring that tourism contributes to broader national development. Digital Landing Card: A Streamlined Experience for Visitors In a move to further streamline the travel experience, the Bahamas government is introducing a Digital Landing Card. This new digital system will combine Customs and Immigration procedures into one seamless platform. The aim is to simplify the arrival process for visitors, reducing waiting times at entry points and enhancing the overall travel experience. The Digital Landing Card will also improve security, as it allows for more efficient sharing of data across government agencies, thereby creating a more coordinated response to border control and immigration matters. Visitors will also be able to complete their landing information digitally, significantly cutting down on paperwork and time spent at entry points. The new system has already received Cabinet approval, and its rollout is expected to make travel to the Bahamas more convenient for tourists, making it easier for them to get in and out of the country quickly. The system is also expected to aid in providing better data for the government to monitor visitor trends, which will help in the planning and development of future tourism initiatives. Air Connectivity: Increasing Access to the Family Islands To support the growth of tourism beyond Nassau, the Bahamas is increasing its air connectivity, particularly to the Family Islands. New flights from Canadian cities such as Toronto, Montreal, Calgary, Ottawa, and Halifax have been introduced through partnerships with airlines like Air Canada, WestJet, and Sunwing. These new connections aim to make travel to the Bahamas more accessible and affordable, catering to a wider range of international visitors. Additionally, more flights are being added from Florida to improve access to the Family Islands, especially during the peak tourism season. The goal is to ensure that these smaller islands, which often miss out on the mass tourism that goes to Nassau, benefit from increased air access. These new flight routes are expected to drive steady growth in tourism for these less-explored regions, helping distribute tourism’s economic benefits more evenly across the archipelago. Tourism Numbers and Economic Impact The tourism industry in the Bahamas has shown strong recovery after the COVID-19 pandemic, and numbers have continued to rise in recent years. In 2024, the Bahamas welcomed over 11 million visitors, including more than 9 million cruise ship passengers. This surge in visitors was particularly notable for cruise tourism, which has long been a major source of income for the country. Although air arrivals were slightly down in the first few months of 2025, the numbers were still higher than pre-pandemic figures, showing that the recovery is progressing steadily. The government’s push to diversify tourism offerings, enhance air access, and introduce technological innovations like the Digital Landing Card is expected to maintain this upward trajectory. Tourism contributes significantly to the Bahamian economy, accounting for approximately 50% of GDP. With a focus on expanding the tourism sector through new initiatives, the Bahamas aims to not only increase visitor numbers but also raise the quality of the tourism experience, ensuring that it delivers sustainable and long-term benefits to the country and its people. Conclusion: A New Chapter for Bahamian Tourism With its “Beyond the Beach” initiative, the Bahamas is redefining its tourism landscape, offering visitors much more than just the iconic beaches it’s known for. The establishment of the Tourism Development Corporation, the launch of the Digital Landing Card, and the expansion of air connectivity are just a few of the strategic measures the government is taking to shape the future of tourism in the Bahamas. These efforts will help ensure that tourism remains a major driver of economic growth, benefiting both local communities and the nation as a whole. As the world of travel continues to evolve, the Bahamas is positioning itself as a leader in diversified tourism experiences, ensuring it remains an attractive destination for years to come.

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Revitalising Outback Tourism: Yagurli Tours Sparks Global Interest in Burketown’s Unique Indigenous Experiences

Outback Queensland, an area known for its vast red plains, dramatic landscapes, and extraordinary wildlife, has faced significant setbacks in recent years due to natural disasters and the global COVID-19 pandemic. However, amidst these challenges, Indigenous tourism, especially initiatives led by local communities like Yagurli Tours, is helping to revive the region’s tourism sector, drawing visitors from across Australia and around the world. The Indigenous-owned business, Yagurli Tours, managed by the Gangalidda and Garawa peoples in Burketown, a town located in the Gulf of Carpentaria, is playing a key role in bringing back life to Outback Queensland’s tourism. By promoting a unique blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty, the tour company offers a distinctive experience that focuses on the region’s Indigenous history and connection to the land. Impact of Natural Disasters and COVID-19 on Queensland Tourism In recent years, Queensland’s tourism sector, particularly in its rural and remote areas, has suffered substantial losses. The region was heavily impacted by back-to-back flooding events and the long-lasting effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, which halted travel for months and left the Outback isolated. These challenges disrupted the flow of tourists who rely on well-maintained roads, which are often the only means of access for travelers exploring this vast region. Floods in 2023 were particularly devastating, with the Gulf of Carpentaria enduring its largest flood in a decade. The natural disaster isolated the area for over three months and damaged infrastructure essential for the tourism industry. The situation was worsened by the ex-tropical cyclone Kirrily that struck the region less than a year later, causing further flooding and disruptions. Despite these setbacks, Yagurli Tours and other local tourism operators are hopeful that the recovery from these events can lead to a vibrant future for the industry.

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Indian tourists can now visit the Philippines without a visa

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) of the Philippines has announced that Indian nationals will be granted visa-free entry for tourism purposes starting June 8, 2025. This policy aims to boost tourism arrivals from India, aligning with the Philippine Government’s efforts to expand tourism engagement with Indian travellers. According to the DFA, Indian nationals may now enter the Philippines without a visa for a non-extendible and non-convertible period of 14 days, provided they present a passport valid for at least six months beyond their intended stay, confirmed hotel accommodation or booking, proof of financial capacity, and a return or onward ticket to another destination. Furthermore, Indian nationals who hold valid and current visas or residence permits from the United States, Japan, Australia, Canada, Schengen Area, Singapore, or the United Kingdom (AJACSSUK) will be allowed to enter the Philippines visa-free for a non-extendible period of 30 days for tourism purposes. These travellers must also present a passport valid for at least six months beyond their planned stay and a return or onward ticket to their next destination. The DFA emphasised that these visa-free privileges are strictly for tourism and must be availed of at any Philippine port of entry. They are not convertible to other visa-based stays or admission status categories. Additionally, Indian nationals must not have any derogatory record with the Bureau of Immigration (BI) to qualify for visa-free entry. Indian travellers who wish to transit through the Philippines or stay for longer periods, as well as those traveling for non-tourism activities, are still required to apply for an appropriate visa at a Philippine Embassy or Consulate in their home country, country of legal residence, or any country that requires entry visas for Indian nationals. For eligible travellers, the DFA also noted that Indian nationals can apply for e-Visas through the official Philippine e-Visa website (evisa.gov.ph). However, e-Visas cannot be extended or converted to other visa-based stays or admission status categories.

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Carnival Cruise Line Introduces Smart Bedside Lamps for Better Comfort

When it comes to cruise cabins, space is always at a premium. So, when Carnival Cruise Line made a seemingly small but game-changing update to its cabins, it didn’t go unnoticed. The addition of bedside lamps equipped with USB and power outlets has stirred excitement among passengers, especially those with specific needs like charging multiple devices or using CPAP machines during sleep. This thoughtful update is not just about convenience—it’s a big leap toward improving the overall passenger experience. Carnival’s brand ambassador, John Heald, took to Facebook to share the new feature, inviting feedback from loyal cruisers, and the response was overwhelmingly positive. Why the New Bedside Lamps Are a Game-Changer The new bedside lamps, installed during routine dry dock maintenance on the Carnival Valor, are quickly becoming a fan favorite. Each lamp comes with two types of USB ports, including the newer USB-C, and a traditional power plug. This small but significant feature has a big impact on passenger comfort. For many cruise passengers, especially those with devices that need charging overnight, the addition of these lamps addresses a long-standing issue—insufficient power outlets in cabins. Passengers, especially those on older ships, often struggle to find enough power sources for their phones, tablets, and other devices. CPAP Users Rejoice The new lamps have been particularly popular among passengers who rely on CPAP machines. Before this update, CPAP users had to bring along extension cords to ensure their machines had enough power. This often led to a tangled mess of cords across the cabin floor—a safety hazard, especially during late-night trips to the bathroom. One CPAP user, Mick Kyte, commented, “As a CPAP user, it will make things much easier because I won’t have to have an extension cord stretched across my cabin floor at night. That makes midnight potty runs really dangerous.” The ability to plug the CPAP machine directly into the bedside lamp makes a huge difference in convenience and safety. Another passenger, Jeremy Rynca, echoed these sentiments, saying, “I love the functionality. I can charge my phone and plug in my CPAP all in one lamp — and I don’t have to bring an extension cord with me.” Passenger Feedback Shapes the Future While the addition of these lamps has been widely praised, some passengers have suggested improvements. A few felt that the lamp placement could be optimized for better space usage. Currently, the lamps are placed in the middle of the cabin table, which leaves limited room for items like CPAP machines. One passenger, Avril Lawshé, suggested, “They should be towards the front or the back so you actually have room for the CPAP or whatever you are plugging into the outlet.” Carnival Cruise Line has already taken this feedback into account and may adjust the lamp placement as more ships are retrofitted. Carnival’s Continued Commitment to Passenger Comfort Carnival Cruise Line’s new bedside lamps are just the latest example of how small changes can make a big difference in the cruise experience. As the cruise line continues to upgrade its fleet, ensuring that passengers are comfortable and their needs are met is a priority. For now, the lamps are being installed on the Carnival Valor and will be expanded to more ships in the fleet as they undergo dry dock updates. With over 12,500 comments supporting the new lamps, it’s clear that this simple yet effective upgrade has made a lasting impression on Carnival’s loyal passengers. Conclusion: Small Changes, Big Benefits What started as a small cabin upgrade has turned into a game-changing feature for Carnival Cruise Line. By adding bedside lamps with USB ports and power outlets, the cruise line has not only improved the functionality of its cabins but also catered to the specific needs of passengers, especially those who use CPAP machines. As more ships undergo retrofitting, passengers can expect more thoughtful upgrades that enhance comfort and convenience. The new lamps are just one example of how Carnival is working to improve the cruise experience and provide its passengers with more comfortable, practical stays at sea.

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