News

IHG’s Candlewood Suites Expands Globally With Exciting European Debut In Germany

Candlewood Suites Berlin Charlottenburg marks a significant milestone as it becomes part of IHG’s expanding global portfolio, which now boasts over 395 Candlewood Suites locations worldwide since the brand was integrated into IHG in 2004. This latest addition brings the brand’s hallmark promise of comfortable, flexible living spaces to the heart of Berlin, offering travelers an ideal environment to truly settle in and feel at home. The Candlewood Suites brand has built its reputation on providing guests with everything they need for extended stays, focusing on creating an atmosphere that combines the comforts of home with the conveniences of a hotel. Each property is thoughtfully designed to offer spacious studios and one-bedroom apartments equipped with fully functional kitchens, allowing guests to prepare their own meals and enjoy a more personalized stay experience. This emphasis on independence and comfort caters especially well to business travelers, relocating families, and anyone seeking a longer-term accommodation solution without compromising on quality or amenities.

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Vietnam Catalyzes A Bold New Era In Regional Aviation With Massive Transfer Of Fifty Boeing 737 Aircraft To Vietjet Thailand, Unleashing Unmatched Passenger Reach

Vietnam’s Vietjet has launched a groundbreaking move by transferring fifty state-of-the-art Boeing 737 aircraft to its Thai subsidiary, Vietjet Thailand, igniting a revolutionary expansion that will redefine regional air connectivity. This bold strategic action not only supercharges Vietjet Thailand’s fleet capacity but also fuels explosive growth in tourism, trade, and cross-border travel between Vietnam, Thailand, and the wider Southeast Asian region. With deliveries starting in late 2025, this game-changing partnership with Boeing sets a new benchmark for speed, safety, and service excellence, positioning Vietjet Thailand as a dominant force in Southeast Asia’s rapidly evolving aviation market. In a landmark development set to reshape the aviation landscape of Southeast Asia, Vietjet and Boeing have announced a strategic agreement to transfer up to fifty Boeing 737 aircraft to Vietjet Thailand. This ambitious initiative aims to significantly enhance air connectivity and strengthen tourism ties not only between Thailand and Vietnam but also across the broader regional network of countries. The move reflects both companies’ commitment to expanding their footprint and fostering greater economic and cultural exchange within this rapidly growing part of Asia.

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Indian interest in Georgia rises: GNTA issues visa guidelines for hassle-free entry

With many Indian travellers now reconsidering trips to destinations like Turkey and Azerbaijan due to current geopolitical sentiments, Georgia is fast emerging as a preferred alternative. Offering a stunning mix of history, culture, landscapes, and warm hospitality, the country presents a beautiful, safe, and enriching option for Indian tourists. Recognising the increasing interest, the Georgian National Tourism Administration (GNTA) has welcomed Indian visitors with open arms and shared important reminders to ensure a smooth and hassle-free visa application process. While planning a trip to Georgia, Indian travellers should take note of the following essential visa requirements: Photograph (passport size) meeting Georgian e-Visa photo requirements • Passport scanned in a single PDF (only Bio pages) • Mobile Number and email ID. (Aadhar Linked Mobile No.) • Aadhar Card • Financial Proof – Bank Statement (Last 6 months) in PDF format, unedited, ITR of the last 3 years and Pan card • If you have been sponsored, then a Bank Statement of the person who is sponsoring, Proof of Relationship and Sponsorship Letter signed by the sponsor • Evidence of sufficient funds to support your stay in Georgia • Proof of employment from your employer • Travel/ Health Insurance • Hotel bookings, Tickets and detailed itinerary Indian passport holders with valid US, UK, Schengen, or Japan visas can enter Georgia visa-free. However, travellers must carry all supporting documents for verification at the Georgian border. Travel Document/Passport • Printed copy of e-visa (if applicable) • Document proving purpose of travel • Flight tickets (return) • Proof of accommodation • Travel and health insurance • Document proving sufficient financial means

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FlyDubai Eyes Entry into Indian Skies via Go First Tie-Up

FlyDubai is exploring an entry into India’s domestic airline market via Go First. Busy Bee Airways has bid ₹1,000 crore to acquire Go First’s trademarks & flying rights. FDI rules allow up to 49% automatic investment in domestic airlines; beyond that needs government approval. EaseMyTrip’s Nishant Pitti had earlier bid ₹1,800 crore for Go First’s intellectual properties. India’s aviation sector is set for a shake-up with new players entering the market. FlyDubai’s Interest: A Game-Changer for Indian Aviation? Dubai-based low-cost carrier FlyDubai is in talks to partner with Busy Bee Airways to start a domestic airline in India. The deal could see FlyDubai enter India’s high-growth aviation market via the defunct airline Go First. Busy Bee Airways is negotiating with Go First’s creditors to acquire its trademarks, flying rights, and airport slots. FlyDubai could enter India’s domestic market through a partnership model. Why This Matters: FlyDubai is owned by the Investment Corporation of Dubai (ICD), making it a government-backed carrier. This move aligns with India’s growing demand for air travel and increasing competition in the aviation sector. What’s FlyDubai’s Strategy? According to industry insiders, FlyDubai is not interested in Go First’s physical assets (such as its land in Thane). Instead, it is targeting: Go First’s flying licence & air traffic rights Bilateral & domestic flying slots Trademarks & online assets (like the Go First website) A senior banker involved in the discussions said, “The bidder is primarily focused on acquiring the brand associated with Go First rather than its assets.” Busy Bee Airways, originally incorporated in 2017 by Pran Sathiadasan (a senior FlyDubai executive), is leading the charge to acquire Go First’s brand and launch a new airline in India. FDI Rules & Regulatory Challenges What Does India’s FDI Policy Say About Airline Investments? 100% FDI is allowed in Scheduled Air Transport Services & Domestic Scheduled Passenger Airlines. Up to 49% FDI is permitted through the automatic route. Beyond 49% requires government approval. 100% FDI is allowed for NRIs under the automatic route. Why This Matters: If FlyDubai wants majority control, it will need government clearance. Busy Bee Airways (an Indian entity) could help FlyDubai navigate the FDI restrictions. Busy Bee vs. EaseMyTrip: The Bidding War for Go First Busy Bee Airways’ Bid ₹1,000 crore bid for Go First’s trademarks & flying rights. Wants to revive Go First as a new airline brand. Focused on partnerships with global carriers like FlyDubai. EaseMyTrip’s Nishant Pitti’s Bid Earlier bid ₹1,600 crore, later raised to ₹1,800 crore. Wanted to revive Go First under new management. Pitti recently stepped down as CEO of EaseMyTrip but remains active in aviation investments. Busy Bee’s case will be heard by NCLAT on February 19 to determine if its bid can move forward. What’s Next? Will Go First Take Off Again? Potential Outcomes: If Busy Bee & FlyDubai succeed, India may get a new domestic airline under the Go First brand. If the deal collapses, Go First may face complete liquidation. If the DGCA revokes Go First’s airport slots permanently, reviving the airline could become impossible.

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Bali Elevates Island Travel with Nature, Culture & Hospitality

Bali has risen to the pinnacle as the most visually captivating island on the planet, according to a recent analysis by a well-known British travel platform. The study reviewed forty-five popular long-distance island destinations, ranking them based on the volume of Instagram hashtags associated with each location. Bali outshone all others with a remarkable seventy-five million hashtags, significantly ahead of Sri Lanka’s eighteen million and Cuba’s fifteen million. This overwhelming social media presence highlights Bali’s status as a favorite destination for travelers seeking a blend of stunning natural scenery and rich cultural experiences. Situated in Indonesia, Bali is celebrated for its expansive golden beaches that draw beach lovers, surfers, and sun seekers from across the globe. However, the island’s allure extends far beyond its shores. Scattered throughout Bali are ancient Hindu temples that serve both as spiritual sanctuaries and cultural landmarks. These sites offer a glimpse into the island’s deep-rooted Hindu-Balinese traditions, a vibrant cultural tapestry that continues to thrive and enchant visitors seeking authentic local experiences.

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Shimla, Manali, Dharamshala Lead Himachal’s 2025 Tourism Surge

The hills of Himachal Pradesh are once again buzzing with the vibrant movement of travelers, signaling a welcome revival for one of India’s most beloved mountain destinations. As geopolitical tensions along the India-Pakistan border subside and an intense heatwave sweeps across the country, vacationers are flocking to the cool serenity of the Himalayan foothills in search of relief and relaxation. This renewed influx of tourists comes after a temporary slump caused by regional uncertainty, and it is now breathing new life into the state’s tourism economy. With major hill stations like Shimla, Manali, and Dharamshala seeing a rise in footfall, the outlook for Himachal Pradesh’s summer travel season appears increasingly optimistic, offering much-needed momentum for the local hospitality sector. The return of peace in the northern border region has eased travel hesitations, allowing Himachal Pradesh to regain its standing as one of the country’s top summer escapes. With temperatures climbing to oppressive levels in major cities and plains, vacationers are flocking to the state’s popular high-altitude destinations in growing numbers.

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