News

Fiji sets sights on double-digit growth from India

Fiji witnessed strong tourism growth in 2024 and is now setting its sights on even greater success in 2025. In a conversation with TTJ, Brent Hill, CEO of Tourism Fiji, shared his insights on the progress achieved, challenges encountered, and the exciting plans ahead. Fiji, the postcard-perfect South Pacific archipelago known for its turquoise waters and warm hospitality, is gearing up for a new chapter in tourism growth. Record Tourism Growth in 2024 Fiji’s tourism sector achieved an impressive milestone in 2024, surpassing expectations with a substantial increase in tourist arrivals. Brent informed, “We were projecting a three per cent growth, but we ended up with about six and a half per cent. We crossed the one million mark, combining air and cruise arrivals.” With strong numbers, Brent is optimistic about continuing the momentum into 2025. “The exciting part is the diversification, especially with our focus on Indian tourists, which is why we are here in India,” added Brent. India’s Role in Fiji’s Tourism Expansion India continues to be a top 10 source market for Fiji. While performance in 2024 was positive, Brent emphasised the need for stronger connectivity. “We need to improve flight connections, which we are actively working on. This year, we are targeting double-digit growth from India,” he shared.

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Air Astana commences non-stop flights between Almaty and Mumbai

Air Astana has officially launched its first-ever non-stop flight service connecting Almaty, Kazakhstan’s largest city, with Mumbai, India’s financial capital. Operated using the airline’s Airbus A320 aircraft, the route marks a significant milestone in strengthening air connectivity between Central Asia and India. This launch also coincides with the airline’s 20th anniversary in India, celebrating two decades of bridging people, cultures, and commerce. The inaugural flight, KC291, landed at Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA) on Sunday at 9:55 AM. The regular Sunday service departs Almaty at 4:35 AM and returns from Mumbai as flight KC292 at 11:00 AM, arriving back in Almaty at 2:45 PM. To enhance flexibility for travellers, Air Astana has also introduced mid-week services. On Wednesdays, flights depart Almaty at 9:05 AM and reach Mumbai at 2:25 PM, with the return leg departing at 3:25 PM and landing in Almaty at 7:25 PM. On Thursdays, the flight takes off from Almaty at 8:20 PM and lands in Mumbai at 1:40 AM on Friday, returning at 2:40 AM and arriving in Almaty by 6:35 AM.

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Vietjet Launches 28 Weekly Flights to Con Dao from Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City

Vietjet has introduced two exciting new domestic routes linking Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City to the picturesque Con Dao islands, making it easier for travelers to explore this beloved destination. With a combined total of 28 round-trip flights scheduled each week, passengers can enjoy two daily morning flights from Hanoi to Con Dao, with a flight time of 2 hours and 10 minutes. From Ho Chi Minh City, Vietjet offers two morning services to Con Dao, each taking about 40 minutes, ensuring smooth and efficient travel for both leisure and business passengers. For these new services, passengers can choose between two ticket classes: Eco and SkyBoss. SkyBoss passengers are treated to exclusive perks such as priority services, an allowance of 7kg of carry-on baggage, and an additional 7kg of checked baggage. On the other hand, Eco passengers are also entitled to 7kg of carry-on baggage, with terms and conditions applying. Advertisement In addition to these domestic routes, Vietjet continues to strengthen its position in the Indian market by launching two new non-stop routes from Hyderabad and Bengaluru to Ho Chi Minh City. This expansion strengthens Vietjet’s presence in India, with the airline now providing 10 direct routes between India and Vietnam, totaling 78 flights per week.The new connections complement the airline’s existing services, linking major Indian cities such as New Delhi, Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Kochi, Hyderabad, and Bengaluru to key destinations in Vietnam, including Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, and Da Nang.

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Delhi Deploys 250 DEVI Electric Buses in Green Mobility Push

Delhi is set to revolutionize last-mile connectivity with the introduction of more than 250 air-conditioned mini-electric buses, designed specifically for narrow lanes and congested areas. Chief Minister Rekha Gupta will inaugurate the new fleet—officially named DEVI (Delhi Electric Vehicle Interchanges)—on Tuesday, marking a significant expansion in the capital’s eco-friendly public transport services. Advertisement Originally dubbed ‘Mohalla Buses’ under the previous administration, these compact, green-colored nine-metre vehicles will begin service after a year-long trial and a delay of six months. Each bus can carry 23 seated and 13 standing passengers, aiming to connect inner neighborhoods with Delhi’s major roads and Metro stations. Launched in conjunction with World Earth Day, the initiative underlines Delhi’s commitment to sustainability. The buses will maintain the existing fare system, and women will continue to benefit from free travel privileges. Routes will be limited to a 12-kilometre stretch, replicating the successful feeder model used by Delhi Metro. Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav will officiate the launch ceremony at Kushak Nala Depot, located in Sewa Nagar near Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium. The first routes will begin operating from depots in Ghazipur, Nangloi, and East Vinod Nagar, where each depot is equipped to accommodate up to 100 buses.

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Singapore, Australia & Turkey Target Bengaluru Travelers with Luxury Summer Getaways

Singapore, Australia and Turkey are wooing Bengaluru’s travel-hungry crowd with bold campaigns, immersive experiences, and unforgettable summer getaways. This Summer, Global Tourism Boards Set Sights on Bengaluru’s Wanderlust-Fueled Travelers Advertisement As summer holidays kick off, Bengaluru is becoming a hotspot—not for vacationers arriving, but for global tourism boards eager to woo the city’s travel-hungry residents. From Southeast Asia to Europe and beyond, international destinations are actively showcasing their best experiences in Bengaluru, hoping to inspire outbound travel among its enthusiastic jetsetters. Singapore Captivates with New Attractions and Seamless Travel Singapore remains a popular destination for travelers from Bengaluru, consistently placing among the top five Indian cities with the highest visits to the island. On average, Bengalureans spend around 6.5 days in Singapore—far exceeding the global norm of 3.5 days. Markus Tan, Regional Director for the Singapore Tourism Board across India and surrounding regions, attributes this to strong air connectivity and Singapore’s reputation as both a leisure and transit hub. Many travelers extend business trips to include leisure days, allocating a growing portion of their travel budgets—19% to accommodation and 30% to shopping. But there’s more to Singapore than retail therapy. The city-state is constantly evolving to offer fresh experiences. Universal Studios is currently undergoing a major expansion, while the new Harry Potter: Visions of Magic experience is captivating fans. The SEA Aquarium is also being transformed into the Singapore Oceanarium, set to be three times larger than its predecessor. Additionally, Singapore remains a strategic stopover for long-haul travelers heading to destinations like Australia, the United States, and Canada.

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Sharjah Waterfront City Boosts Real Estate and Tourism with New Theme Park Plans

Sharjah is seeing the emergence of a new, ambitious real estate development—Sharjah Waterfront City (SWC). With its sprawling 60 million square feet of space, the project promises to be a game-changer in the emirate’s real estate landscape. Located off the coast of Hamriyah, which is becoming an increasingly popular mixed-use location, Sharjah Waterfront City is set to include a collection of eight islands. While still in its development stages, the city has already begun welcoming residents in its initial phases, and further plans include building a theme park and water-based attractions in the future. The project’s developer, Ajmal Makan, is eager to increase its appeal, particularly among off-plan investors. The company has already planned a roadshow in Dubai to attract a wider pool of potential buyers. The developer hopes to capture the growing demand for real estate investments in the UAE, especially from those seeking to invest in the Sharjah property market. Advertisement The Vision for Sharjah Waterfront City The idea behind Sharjah Waterfront City is to create a modern, vibrant community that blends residential, commercial, and recreational spaces. As the project progresses, it aims to offer not only high-quality homes but also leisure activities and amenities that will enhance the overall living experience. The inclusion of a theme park and water attractions aligns with the city’s goal to attract families, tourists, and residents alike.

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