News

Octola unveils Octola II, an exclusive Arctic wilderness retreat in Finnish Lapland

Octola, a pioneer in ultra-private and transformative Arctic experiences, has unveiled its latest venture, Octola II, a new wilderness retreat set in the heart of Finnish Lapland. Building on the global success of the acclaimed Octola Private Wilderness, this sister property marks a bold new chapter in redefining Arctic luxury, offering guests an even deeper immersion into nature, privacy, and purposeful travel. In 2018, Octola Private Wilderness established a new benchmark for high-end accommodation and hospitality in the Arctic. With stunning purpose-built facilities at an undisclosed location in Finnish Lapland with more than 600 hectares of private wilderness on the Arctic Circle, complete with wildlife and every comfort imaginable under the auroras, Octola has been the place with incredible privacy. As the ultimate off-grid destination with wilderness security and bespoke experiences, Octola has set the standard for bespoke Arctic adventure until now. The Vision Behind the Launch of Octola II Janne Honkanen, Founder of Octola, explains the rationale behind creating Octola II. He said, “Since 94 per cent of our guests return to Octola Private Wilderness at least once, we have a limited number of bookings available every year. I decided to create Octola II to add more possibilities to serve all our guests. Expect everything you have come to love about Octola, and then go beyond your wildest dreams.” Octola II Front Under the Northern Lights and Midnight Sun Set in an undisclosed, elevated position deep within Finnish Lapland, Octola II is enveloped by sweeping boreal forest, untouched snowfields, and panoramic views of the Arctic horizon. The location offers near-constant silence, natural serenity, and some of the world’s most spectacular aurora borealis displays, visible on more than 200 nights each year or, during summer, the surreal glow of the Midnight Sun. Accessed only by private transfer, the new retreat remains entirely off the grid, by design.

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Morocco standardizes tourist accommodation with universal star rating system

Morocco has launched a comprehensive star rating system that aims to standardize quality assessments across all types of tourist accommodations, including hotels, riads, guest houses, and other lodging options. This marks the first time these diverse establishments will be evaluated under a single, internationally recognized framework. After years of dedicated work, Morocco is finally launching this new classification system through five official texts that complete Law 80-14 on tourist accommodation. Tourism Minister Fatim-Zahra Ammor expressed pride in this milestone, stating, “With these new measures, we are elevating our hospitality standards to match our legendary reputation!” The changes bring three major innovations: Unified Star Rating System: Every type of accommodation, whether hotels, riads, hotel clubs, or kasbahs, will now use the same star rating system recognized by travellers worldwide. Service Quality as a Key Factor: Classification will no longer be solely infrastructure-based; quality of service now plays a pivotal role. For the first time in Morocco, mystery visitors will conduct inspections to ensure the service quality matches the star rating. New Investment Opportunities: For investors, launching “Résidences Immobilières Adossées” (RIA) creates an exciting new model, private villas attached to five-star and luxury hotels. Managed by hotels, these villas offer ultra-private luxury experiences and attract further investment into Morocco’s tourism sector. The Ministry has published five new official orders to update the 2015 tourism lodging law, enhancing visitor experiences through clear and reliable quality indicators. The comprehensive evaluation system includes up to 800 criteria developed in collaboration with the World Tourism Organization, ensuring a thorough, holistic approach. Significantly, Morocco has introduced regular review cycles. New establishments will be evaluated every seven years, while existing properties will be reassessed every five years, replacing the previous permanent rating system and ensuring high standards are maintained consistently.

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Dr. Rohit Yadav appointed Secretary, Tourism and Cultural Department, Chhattisgarh

In a strategic move aimed at bolstering administrative efficiency, the Chhattisgarh government has reassigned additional responsibilities to five Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officers. This reshuffle is part of a broader effort to enhance governance and accelerate departmental performance across the state. Among the key changes, Dr. Rohit Yadav, a 2002 batch IAS officer currently serving as Secretary of the Energy Department, has been entrusted with an additional portfolio. He will now also serve as Secretary of the Tourism and Cultural Department, a role that brings added responsibility and scope. The expansion of Dr. Yadav's responsibilities is seen as a deliberate step to infuse fresh energy and strategic direction into Chhattisgarh's tourism and cultural initiatives. With his administrative experience, the government anticipates significant progress in these sectors under his dual leadership.

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Canada Joins Italy, Spain, Malaysia, Qatar, New Zealand, Portugal, Japan And More As Australia Issues New Travel Alert With Updated Advice For Travelers Worldwide

Australia has published a thorough updated travel advisory for 2025, revising its guidelines for tourists traveling to a mounting list of international locations—Canada, Italy, Spain, Malaysia, Qatar, New Zealand, Portugal, Japan, and others—based on changing conditions for safety, tightened entry requirements, increasing security threats, and changing regional disruptions. The updated report is in keeping with the Australian goverment’s priority for keeping travelers aware as natural perils, political instability, and patterns of criminal activity continue to impact international tourism in popular destinations. Australia has recently published a revised advisory for worldwide travel in 2025, updating its recommendations for citizens traveling to a long list of countries worldwide—Canada, Italy, Spain, Malaysia, Qatar, New Zealand, Portugal, Japan, and others—because of changing conditions, tightened entry requirements, increased security threats, and changing regional disruptions. The updated advisory demonstrates the Australian government’s dedication to keeping travelers aware as acts of violence, political instability, and patterns of criminal activity continue to impact international travel in popular tourist areas. Australia has updated its travel advisories for 2025, adding key guidance for citizens heading to a growing list of international destinations. Countries such as Canada, Italy, Spain, Malaysia, Qatar, New Zealand, Portugal, and Japan now appear in the latest bulletin from Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, with new warnings and reminders for travelers. The advisory reflects changes in entry requirements, public safety concerns, regional tensions, and weather-related disruptions that travelers must consider before departure. Canada Requires Caution Amid Fires and Unpredictable Weather Australia maintains its standard safety rating for travel to Canada, but several provinces are now facing seasonal wildfires that could impact visibility and air quality. Travelers are advised to stay informed by following local news and monitoring real-time environmental updates. Canadian cities report crime levels comparable to those in Australia, but travelers should remain cautious, particularly in busy tourist areas and on public transport, where petty theft can occur. Vehicle break-ins are frequently reported in urban centers, making it important not to leave any valuables inside. Visitors should also prepare for Canada’s extreme seasonal weather—wildfires and tornadoes during the summer months, and snowstorms with sub-zero temperatures in winter. Australians flying to Canada are required to secure an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) prior to departure. Italy Prepares for Massive Tourist Influx During Holy Year Italy’s Jubilee celebrations, set to span all of 2025, are expected to attract massive crowds to Rome and surrounding regions. Australian authorities are urging travelers to plan ahead, anticipating high competition for accommodation and potential disruptions to local transport services. Tourists should remain cautious of pickpockets, especially around train stations and famous landmarks. Petty thieves often operate in groups and may target distracted travelers. The risk of terrorism remains moderate, with previous attacks targeting European transport hubs and public areas. Travelers should avoid demonstrations, which can sometimes turn violent. Earthquakes, volcanic activity, and forest fires are seasonal concerns, particularly between June and September. Spain Maintains High Terror Alert and Tourist Crime Warnings Australia continues to advise normal precautions for Spain but notes a high national terrorism alert level remains in place. Officials warn that terrorist attacks could occur without warning and may target public locations popular with foreigners. Tourists visiting major Spanish cities such as Barcelona and Madrid often face a heightened risk of theft, with incidents of pickpocketing, bag snatching, and car break-ins occurring regularly—particularly along highways and in beach areas. Public demonstrations and labor strikes may also interfere with transit systems and essential services. Travelers are advised to steer clear of large crowds and stay updated through local media during periods of unrest. Malaysia Introduces Stricter Entry Requirements and Issues Safety Warnings for Eastern Sabah Travelers Malaysia still welcomes Australian travelers but has introduced new entry requirements. All air travelers must submit a Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) before arrival. Upon using the autogate entry system, travelers must store a digital copy of their visit pass for inspection. Certain areas of Malaysia still present safety challenges for visitors. Australian authorities continue to advise against traveling to eastern Sabah due to ongoing threats of kidnapping. In cities such as Kuala Lumpur, motorcycle-driven bag snatching remains a frequent issue. Travelers should keep valuables out of sight and stay alert in busy public spaces. Nightlife hotspots have also seen cases of drink spiking and credit card fraud, making caution essential during evenings out. Qatar Warns of Travel Bans and Regional Volatility Australia’s updated advice for Qatar urges travelers to understand local laws thoroughly. Tourists involved in disputes over employment, business, or civil cases may face travel bans, which prevent them from leaving the country until authorities resolve the issue. Although Qatar maintains a low crime rate, regional tensions and the threat of terrorism require heightened awareness. Travelers should avoid demonstrations and crowded public events. From June to September, the country experiences intense heat, with temperatures often exceeding 50°C. Flash floods are also possible, particularly after heavy rain. New Zealand Urges Preparedness for Natural Disasters New Zealand remains one of the safest destinations on the list, but natural hazards are ever-present. The country regularly experiences earthquakes, with larger quakes causing property damage and triggering tsunami warnings in coastal regions. Australian travelers planning to hike or camp in remote areas should carry personal locator beacons and check in with the Department of Conservation. While crime levels remain low, theft from parked vehicles—particularly campervans—has increased. Visitors should avoid leaving personal belongings unattended.

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India Welcomes Domestic Tourists To Kinnaur, Shipki La, And Lahaul-Spiti With Himachal Pradesh’s Bold New Initiative

Himachal Pradesh has taken a groundbreaking step by opening some of its most remote and strategically sensitive regions, including Kinnaur, Shipki La, and Lahaul-Spiti, to Indian tourists. This bold initiative, launched on June 8, 2025, aims to transform the state’s tourism sector by granting access to areas that were previously restricted due to their proximity to international borders. With the new system, domestic travellers can now explore these untapped, breathtaking destinations without the need for complex permits, using only Aadhaar-based verification. This move not only promotes adventure tourism but also encourages the responsible exploration of these pristine, ecologically sensitive regions, all while maintaining national security protocols. Exploring India’s Remote Border Areas: A New Era of Regulated Border Tourism in Himachal Pradesh Himachal Pradesh has recently taken a bold step towards opening its doors to some of the most remote and strategically sensitive regions of the state, particularly areas along the Indo-China border. The initiative, which began with a formal launch on June 8, 2025, is expected to revolutionize the tourism landscape in the region by offering domestic travellers the opportunity to explore previously restricted territories. These areas, which include parts of Kinnaur and Lahaul-Spiti, have been traditionally off-limits due to their proximity to international borders and security concerns. The ‘regulated border tourism’ initiative aims to strike a balance between promoting tourism in the region and ensuring national security. By providing access to remote villages like Shipki La, the plan opens up new travel possibilities for adventurous tourists while adhering to strict security protocols. Under this system, Aadhaar-based verification has replaced the cumbersome process of acquiring special permits, allowing for a smoother experience for visitors. This marks a significant shift in how border areas are perceived and experienced by the public, while keeping the integrity of the region’s delicate ecological balance intact. New Destinations in Himachal Pradesh One of the most exciting developments in this initiative is the inclusion of several awe-inspiring destinations that have long remained inaccessible. Locations like Shipki La, a strategic pass along the Indo-China border, Gue Monastery, Khana, Dumti, Chitkul, and the Rani area of Sangla in Kinnaur, have all been included under the initiative. These regions, which boast pristine natural beauty, ancient monasteries, and high-altitude lakes, are now open to tourists who can explore them through a much simpler process. Before the initiative’s launch, special permissions were required to visit these locations. The Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) or military authorities typically handled these permits, making it a tedious and often complicated process. However, under the new system, travellers will only need to present their Aadhaar identification to gain access to these remarkable locations. The ITBP and Army authorities will continue to monitor and facilitate movement in these sensitive areas, but the streamlined process aims to make travel more accessible without compromising security. The inclusion of Kinnaur and Lahaul-Spiti in the new tourism initiative has generated considerable excitement, as these areas are renowned for their spectacular landscapes, rare flora and fauna, and rich cultural heritage. However, the border areas were previously closed to the public due to their proximity to international boundaries. As part of India’s ongoing efforts to promote tourism in less-explored regions, the initiative opens up new vistas for tourists looking for off-the-beaten-path adventures. Preserving Nature and Security While the new tourism initiative is a thrilling development, it also places significant responsibility on the authorities and travellers alike to preserve the fragile ecosystems of these border areas. Many of the locations now open to tourism remain pristine and untouched, and there is a growing concern about how increased foot traffic could affect their delicate balance. The government has been careful to ensure that the tourism drive does not come at the cost of the region’s ecology. With stringent monitoring and regulations in place, the initiative aims to manage the flow of tourists responsibly, limiting the environmental impact of increased tourism. Additionally, the program is designed to ensure that local communities benefit from the influx of tourists, promoting economic growth without compromising the area’s cultural and environmental integrity. Shipki La, for instance, is not just an entry point to India; it also holds historical significance and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. Similarly, places like Gue, home to the famous mummified monk, and Chitkul, which is India’s last village along the Indo-Tibetan road, are deeply connected to the country’s cultural and spiritual heritage. With controlled access, these destinations can be protected while allowing visitors to experience their unique charm.

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Indian Railways set to prepare final chart 24 hours in advance

A trial was launched in which the confirmed status of waiting list passengers was announced 24 hours before a train’s departure, instead of the current practice of notifying passengers just 4 hours before, the Railway Ministry said on Wednesday (June 11, 2025). Ministry officials assured that the pilot project would become part of the policy only after receiving a positive response from the passengers. “We have started this pilot project in the Bikaner Division, where charts are being prepared 24 hours before the train departure. The current practice is doing so before 4 hours,” Dilip Kumar, Executive Director, Information and Publicity, Railway Board, said. He noted that this trial was being done keeping in mind the concerns of passengers who remain uncertain about their journey due to a waiting ticket. “Now, if they know 24 hours before that their tickets are confirmed, they can plan their travel better,” he added. However, once a ticket is confirmed, passengers will lose a substantial chunk of the ticket amount as penalty in case of cancellation. According to the cancellation policy, if a confirmed ticket is cancelled between 48 hours and 12 hours before departure, passengers will receive 25% of the ticket amount back. If cancelled between 12 hours and 4 hours before departure, they will receive only 50%. “Seats or berths falling vacant due to cancellation will be filled up through the current booking system,” officials said.

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