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VFS ETM partners with Rayad Group to provide immigration advisory services in India

VFS Global’s Education, Trade & Migration (VFS ETM), Services, a business unit of the VFS Global group, announced a partnership with Rayad Group to offer immigration advisory services in India. This collaboration allows residents in India to conveniently access a comprehensive range of immigration advisory services at VFS Global centres in New Delhi, Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Chennai, Hyderabad and Pune. VFS ETM and Rayad Group would collectively establish a Center of Excellence dedicated to delivering high-quality immigration advisory services. This center will harness the latest advancements in Generative AI technology and combine them with leading legal expertise, empowering individuals to navigate complex migration processes and stay compliant with evolving immigration regulations. As global immigration frameworks become more intricate and regulatory compliance standards rise, this partnership will provide residents in India with access to a network of experienced immigration, tax, and legal professionals. These experts will offer tailored solutions to address a wide range of immigration needs. VFS ETM provides a comprehensive suite of migration services, including skill assessments, dynamic digital verification (DDV), and streamlined pathways for employment and investment-led migration. These solutions are engineered to uphold national standards while substantially optimising administrative processes for public institutions. Founded in 1994, Rayad Group is recognized as a global leader in immigration and legal consulting, with an extensive network of associate attorneys in the U.S. and 45 countries worldwide. The group is affiliated with 25 Citizenship by Investment programs and offers pathways to permanent residency and Golden Visas, including the UAE Golden Visa by Nomination. Rayad Group also has a strong record in U.S. EB-5 visa programs and Green Card compliance, and Immigration services to 45 countries, positioning it as a trusted guide through the complexities of immigration. VFS Global is a global leader in trusted technology services, empowering secure mobility for governments and citizens. As the trusted partner to 69 client governments, VFS Global operates over 3,800 Application Centres in 158 countries and has efficiently processed more than 461 million applications since 2001. “Our collaboration with Rayad Group reflects a shared commitment to delivering exceptional service to our customers. By combining VFS Global’s extensive worldwide operations and recognized leadership in visa services with Rayad Group’s deep expertise in immigration and legal consulting, we are well-positioned to provide clients with comprehensive, up-to-date guidance on migration strategies and regulatory compliance,” said Yummi Talwar, Chief Operating Officer – South Asia, VFS Global. Rayad Kamal Ayub, Managing Director of Rayad Group, said, “We recognize the strategic importance of this partnership, particularly in light of the evolving considerations for U.S. Green Card holders. The recently announced ‘Gold Card’ initiative has generated significant interest among ultra-high-net-worth individuals. According to the U.S. Department of Commerce, the program may offer exemptions from income tax on global earnings for eligible participants, further enhancing its appeal.” The changing immigration pattern of Indians applying for the Golden Visa for the United Arab Emirates and for other countries has made India a leading immigration market in the world.

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Serena Hotels targets pan-African growth while expanding brand presence in India

Serena Hotels, one of the leading brands in Africa’s hospitality sector, is entering a new phase of strategic growth, driven by innovation and commitment to sustainability. Ashish Sharma, Chief Executive Officer, Serena Hotels Africa, is focused on strengthening brand visibility in emerging markets such as India to support this long-term growth. Serena Hotels currently operates with a portfolio of 22 properties in six countries of East and Southern Africa, spanning Kenya, Tanzania (including Zanzibar), Uganda, Rwanda, Mozambique, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The hotel chain features an extensive portfolio thoughtfully balanced across city hotels, safari lodges, beach resorts, and wilderness camps, each offering a unique window into the landscapes, cultures, and histories of the destinations. From gorilla trekking Rwanda to circuit safaris across Kenya and Tanzania, to heritage stays in coastal destinations like Zanzibar, the Serena properties are designed to deliver immersive, seamless, and unforgettable journeys.

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Emirates Boosts International Travel Experience with New Barcelona Flight Enhancing Premium Access to Maldives, Bali, Bangkok, Hong Kong and Singapore

Emirates is significantly enhancing its global travel network with the launch of a third daily flight to Barcelona, starting 26 October 2025. This move is designed to unlock premium, seamless connectivity to top-tier destinations, including the Maldives, Bali, Bangkok, Hong Kong, and Singapore. This strategic expansion responds to surging passenger demand. It strengthens Emirates’ position as a global connector through Dubai, offering travellers faster, more convenient access to some of the world’s most sought-after leisure and business hubs, all while enjoying award-winning onboard service and world-class amenities. In a strategic move to bolster its European presence, Emirates will introduce a third daily flight to Barcelona starting 26 October 2025. This expansion reinforces the airline’s commitment to meeting rising travel demand between the UAE and Spain while enhancing global connectivity through its Dubai hub. More Flights, Greater Flexibility The launch of a third daily service to Barcelona is aimed at providing enhanced flexibility and convenience for both leisure and business travellers. The added frequency is expected to support the growing number of passengers flying between Barcelona and key destinations across Asia and the Indian Ocean, including Maldives, Bali, Bangkok, Hong Kong, and Singapore. This new flight will complement Emirates’ already robust Spanish operations, making a total of 21 weekly flights to Barcelona and 14 weekly flights to Madrid. The airline currently operates a combination of Airbus A380 and Boeing 777 aircraft on these routes, offering customers a range of choices in both scheduling and onboard experience. Enhanced Travel Experience Across All Cabins Passengers on the new Barcelona service can expect Emirates’ signature inflight experience, which has earned the airline numerous global awards. From regionally inspired gourmet cuisine and premium beverage selections to an extensive library of over 6,500 entertainment channels on Emirates’ renowned ICE inflight entertainment system, travellers across all classes will enjoy a world-class journey. The service is designed to cater to a wide range of travellers — from holidaymakers venturing to Southeast Asia and the Indian Ocean, to business passengers connecting through Dubai to the Middle East, Asia, and Australasia. Boost to Spain’s International Connectivity By increasing frequency on the Barcelona route, Emirates is not only responding to strong passenger demand but also contributing to Spain’s tourism and business sectors. Barcelona, known for its architecture, gastronomy, and Mediterranean charm, continues to draw international visitors year-round. The added flight will improve access for inbound tourists and support export and import activities for local businesses through Emirates’ cargo operations. Additionally, Emirates’ continued partnership with local and regional tourism boards will help drive traffic to Spain, reinforcing the country’s status as one of Europe’s top travel destinations. Seamless Bookings and Travel Options Travellers can book tickets on the Emirates website, the Emirates mobile app, via online travel agencies, traditional brick-and-mortar travel agents, or at Emirates retail offices worldwide. With flexible options for managing itineraries and award-winning customer service, Emirates ensures a smooth booking and travel experience. Strengthening Global Reach Through Dubai As the airline continues to rebuild and grow its network post-pandemic, the addition of new frequencies on key routes remains central to its strategy. By expanding services to Barcelona, Emirates strengthens its position as a leading connector between Europe, Asia, Africa, and Oceania through Dubai International Airport, one of the world’s busiest and most efficient global transit hubs. Passengers flying from Barcelona will benefit from minimal connection times in Dubai, making it easier to reach long-haul destinations efficiently. This includes not only tourism hotspots like the Maldives and Bali, but also vital business hubs in India, China, and Southeast Asia. Emirates is launching a third daily flight to Barcelona from 26 October 2025 to boost global access to top destinations like the Maldives, Bali, Bangkok, Hong Kong, and Singapore, offering travellers greater connectivity and premium inflight experiences. Emirates’ third daily flight to Barcelona, effective from late October 2025, is a timely response to increasing passenger demand and a reflection of the airline’s strategy to expand premium travel options worldwide. With unmatched onboard service, convenient scheduling, and seamless global connections, the enhanced service will solidify Barcelona’s role as a key gateway in Emirates’ expanding international network.

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Jamaica Cruise Sector Hits New Milestones with High-Profile Vessels Like Disney Treasure and Celebrity Ascent Making Inaugural Visits, Boosting the Island’s Global Appeal as a Leading Cruise Hub in th

Jamaica’s cruise tourism sector has reached exciting new heights as world-renowned ships like Disney Treasure and Celebrity Ascent make their inaugural calls to the island, underscoring its rising prominence as a premier cruise destination in the Caribbean. These landmark visits reflect Jamaica’s growing appeal on the global stage, driven by enhanced port infrastructure, strong tourism partnerships, and the island’s unmatched cultural and natural attractions. The Ministry of Tourism is actively working to expand the cruise tourism sector, acknowledging its significant role in Jamaica’s growing number of international visitors. Cruise tourism has proven to be an invaluable part of Jamaica’s tourism industry, bringing thousands of tourists to the island each year. Recognizing this, the Ministry of Tourism, led by Minister Edmund Bartlett, is focusing on capitalizing on the increasing popularity of cruise travel. Minister Bartlett emphasized the vital contribution of renowned cruise lines to Jamaica’s tourism, particularly highlighting recent inaugural calls to the island from esteemed vessels such as Disney Treasure and Celebrity Ascent. The arrival of these high-profile ships underscores Jamaica’s rising stature as one of the Caribbean’s leading cruise destinations. These developments in cruise tourism are a key component of Minister Bartlett’s broader strategy for the 2025–2026 fiscal year. During his address to Parliament on June 17, 2025, Minister Bartlett outlined fifteen strategic priorities aimed at improving the tourism sector’s contribution to Jamaica’s economic prosperity. Cruise tourism is a major focus within this framework, reflecting the government’s commitment to enhancing the sector’s overall impact. One of the standout initiatives in this plan is the “Local First” initiative, which seeks to increase local involvement in the tourism value chain. Minister Bartlett introduced this initiative as a way to ensure that a greater portion of tourism-generated income remains within Jamaica. The core idea is to create a tourism model where local businesses—especially farmers, artisans, and professionals—play a more prominent role in serving the needs of the sector. The Minister has also announced plans for new legislation and incentive programs designed to promote the participation of Jamaican producers in the tourism industry, encouraging domestic growth and sustainability. The “Local First” initiative is crucial for ensuring that the economic benefits of tourism are more widely distributed among the Jamaican population. By ensuring that tourism dollars flow back into local communities, the government aims to foster more equitable economic growth and enhance the resilience of local economies. Minister Bartlett stressed that this initiative will be key to preserving the long-term success of the industry, creating a positive cycle where local businesses continue to thrive alongside the influx of international tourists. In supporting this vision, the Ministry of Tourism is also looking to expand upon the success of the Agri-Linkages Exchange (ALEX) platform. This digital tool has played an important role in connecting local farmers directly with hotel purchasing managers, creating a more efficient and direct supply chain. By cutting out intermediaries, the platform has allowed farmers to secure better prices for their goods, resulting in better returns for local producers. ALEX has demonstrated the effectiveness of localized collaboration, and the Ministry aims to extend this model across other sectors of Jamaica’s tourism industry. Minister Bartlett has highlighted that tourism dollar retention—the proportion of money spent by tourists that stays within the country—is a key indicator of the success of these initiatives. Jamaica’s tourism sector has already achieved an impressive retention rate of 40.8 percent, one of the highest in the Caribbean. The government intends to increase this figure through the ongoing “Local First” initiative, with the goal of ensuring that a larger percentage of tourism revenue benefits local communities directly. Building on these efforts, the government also plans to focus on other aspects of Jamaica’s tourism infrastructure, including enhancing the island’s port facilities and strengthening connections between international cruise lines and local businesses. A key part of the strategy is to provide Jamaican businesses with the tools, resources, and incentives they need to meet the demands of the growing cruise tourism market. This includes expanding the range of local products and services available to cruise passengers, ensuring that more revenue from tourism stays within the country. In addition to expanding cruise tourism, Minister Bartlett also emphasized the importance of improving Jamaica’s overall tourism offering. This involves not only upgrading facilities but also promoting sustainable tourism practices that will benefit both visitors and local communities. Through this comprehensive approach, the Ministry of Tourism aims to position Jamaica as a global leader in sustainable tourism while ensuring that the local population benefits from the expanding tourism sector. Minister Bartlett concluded by reaffirming his commitment to making Jamaica’s tourism industry more inclusive, sustainable, and economically resilient. By strengthening local participation and continuing to attract high-quality cruise tourism, the Ministry aims to build a more balanced and prosperous future for the country. As the tourism sector grows, the focus will be on ensuring that its benefits are felt by a wider cross-section of the Jamaican population, ensuring that all Jamaicans are able to share in the success of this vital industry. In summary, the Ministry of Tourism’s strategies for expanding cruise tourism and strengthening local supply chains are designed to create a more sustainable and inclusive model for the future. With the “Local First” initiative at the forefront of the plan, Jamaica is positioning itself to capitalize on its growing cruise industry while ensuring that more of the economic benefits stay within the country. These efforts reflect the government’s commitment to fostering a competitive, resilient, and equitable tourism sector that will continue to benefit Jamaica for years to come.

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Hong Kong Unveils Exciting Summer Viva Campaign with Exclusive Deals and Unbeatable Offers

Hong Kong has launched a vibrant campaign to boost tourism and local spending this summer, and it’s packed with amazing offers! The Hong Kong Summer Viva initiative, spearheaded by the Hong Kong Tourism Board, aims to give both locals and tourists an unforgettable experience through a series of enticing deals on a wide variety of goods and services. From theme parks to transport perks, this summer event is packed with exciting opportunities to explore Hong Kong. What is the Hong Kong Summer Viva Campaign? The Hong Kong Summer Viva campaign is an exciting promotional event designed to stimulate spending among both tourists and locals during the summer. The campaign is a collaborative effort between the Hong Kong Tourism Board and over 150 partners, including key theme park operators, hotels, restaurants, transport providers, and retailers. The goal is to create attractive offers that make Hong Kong an even more appealing destination during the busy summer months. The campaign also reflects the Tourism Board’s evolving approach, which focuses on extending the duration of visitor stays and improving the overall quality of visits. Instead of only targeting high arrival numbers, the initiative combines various attractions, events, and experiences to form unique, memorable itineraries for tourists. Exclusive Offers for International Visitors One of the main draws of the Hong Kong Summer Viva campaign is the exclusive deals available to international visitors. These deals are available on a first-come, first-served basis, ensuring that those who act fast can enjoy special privileges. Some of the top offers include: Complimentary Early Park Entry Passes at Hong Kong Disneyland Resort: As part of its 20th anniversary celebrations, Disneyland is offering complimentary early entry passes. These will be available to 50 lucky guests per day, providing them access to the park one hour before opening. These passes will be distributed between June 28 and August 31, with collection dates on June 23 and July 23. Ocean Park Coupons & Panda-Themed Luggage Tags: Visitors to Ocean Park can enjoy special discounts and take home unique panda-themed luggage tags, adding a fun souvenir element to their trip. Round-Trip Tickets for the Peak Tram: 1,000 complimentary round-trip tickets are available for the iconic Peak Tram, which includes access to the Sky Terrace 428 for panoramic views of Hong Kong. MTR Airport Express Deal: A buy-one, get-one-free offer is available for adult single-journey tickets on the MTR Corporation’s Airport Express, making it more affordable for tourists to travel from the airport to the city. Special Offers for Locals and Tourists Alike In addition to deals exclusively for tourists, the Hong Kong Summer Viva campaign also caters to local residents with a variety of exciting offers. Around 70 buy-one, get-one-free promotions are available, allowing both locals and tourists to save on dining and other services. Some of the highlights include: Hotel and Dining Deals: The Harbour Plaza 8 Degrees offers a buy-one, get-one-free deal on lunch and dinner buffets. Similarly, the Fullerton Ocean Park and Hotel Alexandra are offering free extra nights with bookings, making it an excellent time for a staycation or family getaway. Retail Offers: Popular retailers like Bossini are offering a free T-shirt with the purchase of select items, while health brand Eu Yan Sang has a similar promotion on selected capsules. Dining on the Harbour: Dining enthusiasts can enjoy dinner buffets aboard the Harbour Cruise Bauhinia, a scenic dining experience on Victoria Harbour, with buy-one, get-one-free offers.

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Michigan Travel Surges: 2.6 Million travelers Expected to Hit the Road, Skies, and Rails for July 4th Holiday

AAA has released its forecast for the 2025 Independence Day travel period, predicting a record-breaking 2.6 million Michiganders will travel during the holiday from Saturday, June 28 to Sunday, July 6. This marks a nearly 3% increase from last year, with 71,000 additional Michigan residents expected to hit the road, skies, and rails. The surge in travel comes as Americans look to capitalize on extended weekends and the long-awaited summer vacation opportunities, with AAA also projecting that 72.2 million people nationwide will travel for the holiday. This represents an increase of 1.7 million travelers, or 2.4%, compared to 2024, and an additional 7 million travelers since 2019. Travel Trends in Michigan: Road Trips, Flights, and Cruises For Michigan residents, the holiday weekend will see substantial travel across various modes of transportation, with nearly 2.4 million people taking road trips, a 2.5% increase from the previous year. This marks an expected rise of 59,000 more road travelers in Michigan alone. As the most popular mode of travel, driving continues to dominate, with people heading out to enjoy everything from relaxing beach vacations to attending fireworks displays. Air travel is also on the rise, with nearly 96,000 Michiganders expected to fly, a 1% increase from last year. Domestic flights continue to show strong demand, reflecting the overall nationwide surge in air travel. Airfares are predicted to average $810 for a round-trip flight, up 4% from the previous year. Travelers looking to save on flight costs are advised to book midweek departures, particularly on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, to find better deals. Meanwhile, travel by other means, such as buses, trains, and cruises, is expected to reach more than 160,000 Michigan residents. This marks a significant 7% increase from last year, driven in large part by the growing popularity of cruise travel, particularly in Alaska during peak season. Record Numbers on the Road Nationwide Nationwide, AAA estimates that a record 61.6 million Americans will take road trips during the holiday period, an increase of 2.2% over last year. Michigan’s share of these travelers reflects the national trend, with many people planning longer getaways thanks to the holiday falling on a Friday. However, drivers are urged to prepare for potential challenges, as AAA responded to nearly 700,000 roadside assistance calls last year during the holiday period. Road congestion is expected to be heavy, with Wednesday, July 2, and Sunday, July 6, projected to be the busiest days. Travel during these times will likely experience delays, with the worst travel times being between 12:00 PM and 5:00 PM. Early mornings are the ideal times for smoother travel, as this is when roads tend to be less congested. Impact of Gas Prices and Travel Tips for Michigan Drivers As travelers prepare to drive, gas prices may play a role in planning. Oil prices surged last week due to geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, potentially affecting gasoline production costs. While analysts believe the price increase may be temporary, it remains uncertain whether gas prices will stabilize in time for the holiday weekend. Currently, Michigan residents are paying around $3.30 per gallon, which is approximately 30 cents less than last year. For those planning a road trip, AAA recommends checking vehicle readiness before embarking on long-distance travel. Common issues like dead batteries, flat tires, and empty gas tanks caused a significant portion of roadside assistance calls last year. Travelers are advised to ensure their vehicles are in good condition, with special attention to tire pressure and oil levels, to avoid delays and safety hazards. Top Independence Day Destinations and Travel Inspiration AAA’s booking data highlights the most popular destinations for July 4th, both domestically and internationally. Domestically, Florida is expected to draw significant crowds, with Orlando, Fort Lauderdale, and Miami leading the pack. Alaska cruises also remain a top choice, with many looking to explore the rugged beauty of the state’s glaciers and natural landscapes. Additionally, cities like New York, Boston, and Honolulu are among the top U.S. cities, especially for their spectacular fireworks displays. For those considering international travel, cities like Vancouver, Rome, and Paris dominate the list. Vancouver stands out for its blend of natural beauty and urban excitement, while Rome and Paris continue to attract travelers with their iconic landmarks and summer festivals. Planning for Travel Disruptions Travelers are encouraged to consider purchasing travel insurance, particularly with the unpredictable nature of modern travel. Whether dealing with last-minute flight delays, lost luggage, or unexpected medical emergencies, insurance offers peace of mind and protection against disruptions. Travelers can lock in plans through AAA’s online travel booking portal or by connecting with a AAA Travel Advisor for assistance in crafting a trip that suits their interests and preferences. As Independence Day draws near, both Michigan residents and travelers across the country are gearing up for one of the busiest holiday travel seasons on record. With careful planning and a little extra preparation, travelers can make the most of their summer getaways, whether on the road, in the skies, or on the water.

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