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Antara Cruises launches new shorter journeys tailored for Indian travellers

Antara Cruises, India’s luxury river cruise company known for redefining experiential travel and heritage journeys along India’s iconic waterways, is expanding its footprint within the domestic market. With growing interest among Indian travellers for shorter yet immersive experiences, Antara Cruises now pleased to announce the launch of new itineraries thoughtfully curated for Indian audiences seeking meaningful getaways rich in heritage, nature, and comfort. While traditionally favoured by international guests and for longer journeys, Antara Cruises is now enhancing its offerings with flexible itineraries, making river cruising more accessible and appealing to Indian travellers who prefer weekend escapes or extended cultural immersions. The new routes are: Painted Stork at Bhitarkanika Creeks & Crocodiles: Gupti – Dangamal – Gupti (2 Nights/3 Days starts from 2nd August 2025) Lying along the Bay of Bengal coast, Bhitarkanika – often called the ‘mini-Amazon’ – is India’s second-largest mangrove ecosystem. Embark at Gupti, a scenic village about 3.5 hours from Bhubaneswar. The cruise includes a village walk, traditional Odia dinner, and a full-day sail to Dangamal, where guests can spot estuarine crocodiles, spotted deer, monitor lizards, wild boars, Indian pythons, rhesus macaques, and a variety of birds. A visit to the forest’s Orientation Centre is included before returning to Gupti. Mangrove Majesty: Gupti – Dangamal – Habali Kathi – Gupti (3 Nights/4 Days starts from 4th August 2025) A more enriching exploration of Bhitarkanika National Park, this extended itinerary sails beyond Dangamal to Habali Kathi. The journey includes guided nature walks, tranquil riverscapes, and opportunities to spot rare species in their natural habitat. Kolkata – Mayapur : Upstream (3 Nights/4 Days starts from 15th September 2025) A serene sail along the Hooghly River from Kolkata to Mayapur, with stops at Bandel and Kalna. Highlights include the historic Hooghly Imambara, Rajbari Temple Complex, and the sacred ISKCON headquarters in Mayapur. Mayapur – Kolkata : Downstream (3 Nights/4 Days starts from 18th September 2025) Begins with a visit to the iconic ISKCON temple complex in Mayapur, followed by Guptipara, a rural town known for its paddy fields and Himsagar mangoes. Explore Vaishnav temples with exquisite terracotta work, witness Jacquard and Jamdani saree weaving in Fulia, and then continue to the French colonial town of Chandernagore and the Danish heritage sites in Serampore. On these new routes, Raj Singh, Founder and Chairman of Antara Cruises, stated, “Over the years, we’ve had the privilege of hosting travellers from around the world. Now, we’re seeing growing interest from Indian travellers seeking shorter, meaningful getaways that go beyond the conventional. These new voyages are designed to meet that need, combining cultural richness, flexible durations, and the signature elegance of every Antara journey. We’re excited to welcome more Indian guests aboard.” These additions aim to align with the evolving preferences of Indian travellers – with departures scheduled weekly, custom-curated experiences, and all-inclusive stays aboard the company’s boutique ships and catamarans.

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STAAH Revolutionizes Black Rock Hotels’ Online Booking Process in India, Enhancing Operational Efficiency and Driving Revenue Growth

STAAH has revolutionized Black Rock Hotels’ online booking process by implementing advanced technology solutions that streamline inventory management and synchronize distribution channels. With STAAH’s powerful Channel Manager, Black Rock Hotels, which operates properties in Pushkar, Jaipur, and Ranthambore, can now update their room availability in real-time across multiple platforms, significantly improving operational efficiency. This seamless integration has not only minimized errors and enhanced booking accuracy but also played a pivotal role in driving revenue growth for the hotel chain, positioning it for continued success in a competitive market. STAAH Empowers Black Rock Hotels to Optimize Online Distribution and Drive Revenue Growth In today’s fast-paced hospitality industry, effective inventory management and seamless integration with online travel platforms are key drivers of success. Black Rock Hotels & Resorts, a growing hospitality group with properties in Pushkar, Jaipur, and Ranthambore, has leveraged the advanced hospitality technology solutions provided by STAAH to streamline its operations, enhance its online presence, and boost its revenue performance. STAAH, a leading provider of innovative hospi-tech solutions, has been instrumental in helping Black Rock Hotels integrate a powerful Channel Manager across its properties. The group now enjoys a more efficient approach to managing online bookings, ensuring that their inventory is updated in real-time, and that all distribution channels are synchronized seamlessly. This move has not only helped optimize operational efficiency but also resulted in significant revenue growth for the hotel chain. Streamlining Inventory Management Across Multiple Platforms One of the primary challenges that hotels face in managing their online distribution is ensuring that their room inventory is accurate and updated across all online platforms in real-time. With multiple online travel agencies (OTAs) and booking engines in play, keeping track of room availability and pricing manually can lead to errors, double bookings, and missed opportunities. By integrating STAAH’s Channel Manager, Black Rock Hotels has effectively solved this problem. The platform automatically updates room availability and pricing across all major OTAs and Global Distribution Systems (GDS) whenever there is a change in inventory. This real-time synchronization minimizes the risk of overbookings and ensures that guests always see the most up-to-date pricing and availability when booking. Optimizing Distribution Channels for Maximum Reach Another key benefit of the STAAH integration is the ability to optimize the hotel’s distribution channels. The Channel Manager simplifies the process of connecting to a wide range of online booking platforms, including OTAs, GDS, and direct booking channels. By using a single interface, the hotel chain can now manage all their distribution networks from one place, which streamlines their operations and saves valuable time for hotel staff. Black Rock Hotels’ decision to use STAAH’s Channel Manager has proven to be a game-changer in terms of increasing their visibility and reaching a broader audience. The ability to manage multiple distribution channels efficiently enables the hotel group to capture more bookings from different markets, including international tourists, local travelers, and business clients. Automation of Inventory and Pricing Updates In addition to simplifying distribution, STAAH’s platform automates the process of updating inventory and pricing, ensuring that no manual intervention is required. This feature is particularly valuable for hotels with multiple properties, as it eliminates the need for redundant tasks like manually updating room rates or availability on each platform.

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Lufthansa Group expands codeshare network with ITA Airways for long-haul flights starting July 1, 2025

The Lufthansa Group has announced a major step forward in the integration of ITA Airways, enabling customers to book combined itineraries that include flights from Lufthansa, SWISS, Austrian Airlines, and Brussels Airlines alongside long-haul services operated by ITA Airways, all within a single booking. Corresponding codeshare offers will be available for flights from July 1, 2025. For example, it will then be possible to travel with Lufthansa from Frankfurt and Munich via Rome with ITA Airways to Bangkok, Jeddah, Riyadh, and additionally with Brussels Airlines from Brussels to Cairo. With Lufthansa and Austrian Airlines from Vienna, codeshare flights via Rome to Rio de Janeiro or São Paulo can be booked. This will offer customers significantly better connections, and their baggage will be transported directly to their final destination. Further codeshare flights to Africa and Asia will follow in the coming weeks. Dieter Vranckx, Chief Commercial Officer, Lufthansa Group, said, “We are delighted to reach the next milestone in the integration of ITA Airways into the Lufthansa Group. By expanding our codeshare flights, now also for long-haul connections, we are offering our airlines’ guests a seamless and consistent travel experience more than ever before. They benefit from an expanded and perfectly coordinated route network across all our airlines and hubs, and only need one booking and one check-in. In addition, customers can earn and redeem miles and points in their respective frequent flyer programs as usual. This makes traveling even easier, more comfortable, and more attractive for our customers.” Since March, guests of ITA Airways and the other Lufthansa Group network airlines have been able to book more than 100 new codeshare flights for selected domestic Italian and European flights. Codesharing gives customers a wider choice of flights and greater flexibility. Despite flying with different airlines, passengers only need one ticket with flight numbers from one airline and can conveniently check their baggage through to their final destination. Members of the Miles & More or Volare loyalty programs can also earn and redeem miles and points on codeshare flights. Once this codeshare program has been fully implemented, ITA Airways passengers will have a choice of over 250 Lufthansa Group codeshare destinations in the future.

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Aer Lingus Surprises Manchester To New York Passengers With Complimentary Business Class Upgrades Celebrating One Million Travelers

Aer Lingus celebrated reaching one million passengers from Manchester by surprising travelers with complimentary business class upgrades on flights to New York. Aer Lingus recently celebrated a significant milestone at Manchester Airport by welcoming its one millionth passenger from the northern hub. To mark this special occasion, the airline surprised two lucky travelers with complimentary upgrades to business class on a flight bound for New York City. This gesture not only celebrated the milestone but also highlighted the airline’s commitment to enhancing passenger experience. The fortunate couple, departing from Manchester to New York, received the unexpected business class upgrade as part of the airline’s celebration. For them, the trip was especially meaningful, fulfilling a long-standing dream of visiting New York, a city that had been high on their travel bucket list. This upgrade enhanced their trip, creating a truly unforgettable and special experience. Since October 2021, Aer Lingus has been operating direct transatlantic flights from Manchester, expanding its presence in the region with nonstop services to major destinations such as New York, Orlando, and Barbados. These routes have opened up convenient and seamless travel options for passengers in the north of England, linking them directly to key cities across the Atlantic. The airline’s daily flights to New York and Orlando are operated using its modern Airbus A330 aircraft. Passengers on these flights can choose between Economy Class and the enhanced comfort of Business Class, which offers a more spacious seating arrangement, premium dining options, and additional amenities designed to provide a superior travel experience. This option accommodates diverse traveler needs, appealing both to those mindful of costs and to passengers looking for premium comfort and ease. In addition to the direct routes from Manchester, Aer Lingus also runs a seasonal service to Barbados. This route operates from late October through to the end of May, offering travelers an attractive option for escaping to the Caribbean’s warm climate during the cooler months. The Barbados service caters to holidaymakers looking for sun-soaked vacations, further diversifying the airline’s offerings from Manchester. As part of the milestone announcement, Aer Lingus shared some interesting statistics about passenger preferences and in-flight experiences on flights originating from Manchester. Among the complimentary beverages offered, the gin and tonic emerged as the favorite, with more than 59,000 servings enjoyed by passengers on long-haul flights over nearly four years. This highlights the enduring popularity of this classic cocktail among travelers. In terms of entertainment, the film Barbie has stood out as the most-watched movie aboard Aer Lingus flights from Manchester. This insight gives a glimpse into the preferences of passengers, reflecting the kinds of entertainment that engage and captivate travelers during their journey. Aer Lingus’s network extends beyond Manchester, with connections available through Dublin Airport. From Dublin, passengers can access 22 transatlantic destinations, linking 10 UK airports to a broad range of North American cities. This extensive network provides flexibility and choice for travelers across the UK and Ireland, facilitating convenient travel options for both business and leisure purposes. A significant benefit for travelers flying Aer Lingus to North America is the availability of the US Pre-Clearance facility at Dublin Airport. This service allows passengers to complete all US immigration and customs formalities before boarding their flight. By clearing these procedures in advance, travelers arrive in the United States as domestic passengers, avoiding long immigration lines and making their arrival process smoother and faster. The celebration of one million passengers from Manchester Airport is a testament to Aer Lingus’s successful expansion and growing popularity in the northern UK market. The airline’s direct flights have not only provided convenient access to popular destinations but also enhanced the overall travel experience with thoughtful amenities, seasonal offerings, and a broad network of connections. Looking ahead, Aer Lingus is well-positioned to continue growing its presence at Manchester Airport. The airline’s commitment to service excellence, combined with its modern fleet and strategic route network, ensures that it remains a preferred choice for travelers seeking reliable and comfortable transatlantic flights. This milestone celebration also reflects the evolving landscape of air travel, where regional airports like Manchester are becoming increasingly important hubs for international travel. Aer Lingus’s investment in this market highlights the airline’s recognition of growing demand from passengers in the north of England and its dedication to meeting their needs with tailored services and convenient schedules. Reaching one million passengers at Manchester Airport marks a proud moment for Aer Lingus. The airline’s ability to deliver seamless connections, exceptional in-flight experiences, and thoughtful customer service continues to drive its success in this competitive market. The surprise business class upgrade for the milestone travelers exemplifies Aer Lingus’s focus on creating memorable journeys and celebrating its valued customers.

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40 Uttarakhand villages near Nepal border identified for development under Vibrant Village Programme 2.0

40 villages in Uttarakhand close to the Nepal border have been selected for revitalisation under the Vibrant Village programme 2.0, a senior official said on Wednesday. These villages are located in six development blocks spread over three districts of Uttarakhand, including Champawat, Pithoragarh and Udham Singh Nagar, Additional Secretary and Nodal Officer for the Vibrant Village programme in the state, Anuradha Pal said. An action plan to revitalise these villages as per the guidelines of the Centre is being prepared now, for which suggestions have been sought from the district administrations concerned, she said. Pal further informed that they have been asked to submit their proposals for livelihood development, housing, all-weather road connectivity, communication network, television connectivity, electricity, farming-horticulture, education, health, tourism and incentives to self-help groups in the selected villages. Uttarakhand shares a 275 km-long border with Nepal. 51 villages of Uttarakhand situated close to the China border in Chamoli, Pithoragarh and Uttarkashi districts were selected in the first phase of the programme, she said. 184 projects worth Rs 186.16 crore aimed at raising the standard of living of the residents of these villages and encouraging them to stay in their original places were launched in the first phase of the programme, Pal noted, adding that work is in progress in 162 of them.

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Alaska Embraces Cunard’s Legendary Queen Elizabeth for an Exclusive Alaskan Cruise Experience, Marking the Ship’s First-Ever Season Departing from Seattle’s Port

Alaska is set to welcome Cunard Line’s legendary Queen Elizabeth for an exclusive Alaskan cruise season, marking a historic milestone as the ship embarks on its first-ever voyages from Seattle’s port. This special season offers guests the unparalleled opportunity to explore Alaska’s majestic beauty aboard a vessel renowned for its luxury and elegance. Cunard’s iconic White Star Service, known for its impeccable attention to detail and world-class amenities, will be brought to life in the stunning Alaskan wilderness, providing travelers with a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience the best of both worlds: extraordinary landscapes and timeless British luxury. Queen Elizabeth will call Seattle its homeport for the first time, offering guests the opportunity to embark on luxurious seven to twelve-night cruises through the awe-inspiring Alaskan landscape. With itineraries that include visits to charming ports such as Juneau, Ketchikan, and breathtaking Glacier Bay, these exclusive voyages promise to immerse travelers in the beauty and grandeur of Alaska like never before. Guests aboard Queen Elizabeth will be treated to Cunard’s signature world-class service, fine dining, and entertainment, all while cruising through some of the most stunning natural scenery on earth. This partnership with Seattle marks a significant expansion for Cunard, offering a new gateway to experience the elegance of British maritime tradition in the heart of Alaska’s wilderness. For those in search of an unparalleled Alaskan adventure, Queen Elizabeth offers a journey of luxury and sophistication that promises lasting memories. “Historic grandeur, refined elegance, bespoke experiences and unparalleled personal service are cornerstones of a Cunard voyage,” explained Liz Fettes, Senior Vice President of Commercial for North America at Cunard. “Our view of luxury is rooted in a belief that experiences can be both elegant and relaxed, and our Alaska voyages aboard Queen Elizabeth personifies that spirit.” A Revitalized Queen Elizabeth: The Ultimate Luxurious Escape The newly transformed Queen Elizabeth offers an elevated cruise experience, blending timeless luxury with modern enhancements. The iconic ship now features refreshed signature spaces and a premium Princess and Queens Grills experience, complete with expansive suites, upgraded amenities, and personalized butler service. Guests can enjoy exclusive access to private areas and gourmet restaurants, ensuring a truly refined journey. An exceptional highlight for Grill Suite guests is the bespoke three-course Gala Evening menu, expertly crafted by Michelin-starred chef Michel Roux. This exclusive dining experience adds another layer of sophistication to the ship’s luxurious offerings. Alaska-bound passengers aboard Queen Elizabeth will also enjoy the brand-new Pavilion Wellness Café, a space dedicated to rejuvenation and tranquility. Guests can further indulge in the Harper’s Bazaar® Wellness at Sea program, which includes carefully curated wellness treatments, nourishing smoothies, engaging masterclasses, and premium ELEMIS products, ensuring a holistic well-being experience during the voyage. Unforgettable Alaskan Voyages From June to September 2025, Queen Elizabeth sets sail on extraordinary seven to eleven-night Alaskan journeys, with fares starting at \$1,109 per person for a balcony stateroom (based on double occupancy). These breathtaking voyages will visit picturesque ports such as Ketchikan, Skagway, Juneau, Victoria (British Columbia), and Glacier Bay National Park. Guests will be immersed in the natural splendor of Glacier Bay and Hubbard Glacier, as well as enjoy scenic days exploring the Inside Passage, the world’s longest sheltered inland waterway. Engaging Cultural and Educational Onboard Programs Cunard remains dedicated to delivering enriching journeys for its guests, which is why Queen Elizabeth continues its longstanding collaboration with the Royal Canadian Geographical Society (RCGS). This partnership enhances the cruise experience by offering an engaging speaker series, where esteemed experts will share their insights on the rich history, diverse geography, and vibrant culture of Alaska, providing guests with a deeper understanding of the region. A unique feature of these voyages is the Locals Onboard speaker series, offering a fascinating glimpse into Alaskan culture through 11 local speakers. Guests will enjoy performances by a master Tlingit dance group, hear stories from a Denali expeditionist, and gain insights from local artists, historians, and photographers. To complement the Alaskan adventure, Queen Elizabeth will also showcase a selection of fine wines from regional wineries such as Elsom Cellars, Charles Smith Wines, Double Canyon, Canoe Ridge Estate, and Goose Ridge. These wines will allow guests to savor the distinctive flavors of the Pacific Northwest as they sail through one of the world’s most pristine natural landscapes. With its combination of luxury, adventure, and cultural immersion, Queen Elizabeth promises an unforgettable journey for all who seek the ultimate Alaskan escape. “The Port of Seattle is honored to welcome Cunard and the iconic Queen Elizabeth for their first homeported season in Seattle,” said Port of Seattle Executive Director Steve Metruck. “This partnership marks a major milestone in our work to expand economic activity and to support local jobs through cruise, and we look forward to advancing together our shared vision for sustainability and responsible tourism.” Queen Elizabeth’s First-Ever Winter in the Caribbean After a memorable summer exploring Alaska, Queen Elizabeth will sail to Miami this October to begin its highly anticipated inaugural season of Caribbean cruises. This marks a significant milestone for Cunard, as the legendary vessel will dedicate an entire season to the Caribbean for the very first time, giving guests the exclusive opportunity to discover the vibrant tropical landscapes aboard one of the world’s most luxurious and elegant ships. As part of this exclusive Caribbean season, Queen Elizabeth will unveil a spectacular array of onboard entertainment, featuring top talent from Broadway and the West End. The ship’s guests will be treated to performances by renowned Tony Award-winning artist Sutton Foster, along with a special presentation of the critically acclaimed Come From Away, a Tony Award-winning musical. Alaska is set to welcome Cunard’s legendary Queen Elizabeth for its first-ever season departing from Seattle, offering an exclusive cruise experience that blends the ship’s renowned luxury with the region’s breathtaking landscapes. These exciting new entertainment offerings will complement the ship’s luxurious accommodations and fine dining, ensuring an unforgettable experience for all passengers. Whether you’re soaking up the sun in the Caribbean or enjoying world-class shows, Queen Elizabeth promises a season of unparalleled elegance and entertainment on the high seas.

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