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The Vessel, a Manhattan tourist site reopens with new safety features with

NEW YORK (AP) — The Vessel, a towering, honeycomb-like sculpture in Manhattan that was popular with tourists before a series of suicides forced its closure in 2021, will reopen Monday with new safety features. The 150-foot (46-meter) structure opened in 2019 as the centerpiece of the Hudson Yards development on Manhattan’s West Side. The climbable sculpture with zigzagging stairs drew crowds of tourists, but was closed to the public in 2021 after several people took their own lives by jumping off the structure. Related Companies, which owns Hudson Yards, confirmed Sunday that the Vessel will reopen Monday with floor-to-ceiling steel mesh barriers installed on parts of it. Only the upper level sections that have been fitted with mesh will reopen and the top level will remain closed. Tickets are required. “Not a day goes by that we don’t have visitors walking up to our staff asking where they can buy tickets and when it will reopen,” Related CEO Jeff T. Blau said in a prepared statement, “that interest hasn’t diminished during the time we’ve been closed and we’re excited to welcome guests from all around the world back to Vessel with additional safety measures in place.”

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Travel & Tourism Fair Patna (TTF) in India Introduces Emerging Travel Trends

The Travel & Tourism Fair (TTF) Patna is a premier travel exhibition scheduled for 22 & 23 October 2024, serving as a vibrant meeting point for key players in India’s travel industry and surrounding regions. This dynamic event showcases a rich variety of tourism offerings, ranging from spiritual journeys and wellness retreats to thrilling adventure travel experiences. A particular focus is placed on eco-tourism, highlighting sustainable practices and nature-friendly destinations. TTF Patna not only fosters meaningful collaborations but also paves the way for new opportunities, making it an essential platform for growth and innovation within the travel industry. 22 & 23 October 2024: A Must-Attend Travel Expo at Samrat Ashok Convention Centre, Gyan Bhawan, Patna Event Date: 22 & 23 October 2024 Venue: Samrat Ashok Convention Centre – Gyan Bhawan, Patna Event Overview: The Travel & Tourism Fair (TTF) is a prestigious event bringing together key stakeholders from India’s travel industry and neighboring regions. Tourism Highlights: Spiritual journeys Wellness retreats Adventure travel experiences Focus on Eco-Tourism: Special emphasis will be placed on eco-tourism, promoting sustainable and nature-friendly travel options. Purpose: TTF Patna serves as a vital platform for fostering collaboration, encouraging innovation, and opening new growth opportunities within the travel industry.

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Rajasthan CM Bhajan Lal Sharma invites UK investors to boost tourism

Continuing his investor outreach in United Kingdom for Rising Rajasthan Global Investment Summit to be held from December 9 to 11 in Jaipur, Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma said that "every third tourist that visits India, visits Rajasthan." At the Rising Rajasthan Tourism Meet held at the Taj Hotel in London on Saturday, Sharma addressed a gathering of tourism professionals, investors, and enthusiasts from across the UK, inviting them for the summit. During the event, CM Sharma highlighted that Rajasthan is known for its rich cultural heritage, historic landmarks and scenic beauty. "Tourism industry not only plays important role in India's economy but also essential globally. Every third tourist that visits India visits Rajasthan as any traveller feels incomplete if he doesn't visit the state. Rajasthan is not only known for its tourism, but also for its historical and cultural heritage," CM Sharma said. Rajasthan CM informed that for FY 2022/23 Rajasthan welcomed 180 million domestic tourists, 65 per cent more than FY 2021/22. "Today Rajasthan is a shining star in tourism. Rajasthan tourism industry has important contribution in state's GDP. In Financial Year 22/23 Rajasthan welcomed 180 million domestic tourists, which is 65 per cent more than previous year. This reflects that the attraction and opportunities in tourism are increasing." CM Sharma said.

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UDAN initiative drives infra growth at Assam’s Lilabari Airport

Launched to boost aviation in underserved regions, the airport has played a vital role in improving transportation options, raising the quality of life for residents, and fostering economic growth, especially in the tourism sector. Under the UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik) Scheme, Lilabari Airport in the Lakhimpur district of Northern Assam has significantly enhanced air connectivity and benefitted local communities. Launched to boost aviation in underserved regions, the airport has played a vital role in improving transportation options, raising the quality of life for residents, and fostering economic growth, especially in the tourism sector. Vijendra Yadav, Airport Manager and ATC in charge at Lilabari highlighted the positive developments at the airport in a conversation with ANI. “We’ve witnessed a marked increase in passenger numbers, from 33,000 last year to over 39,000 this year. Lilabari Airport has handled more than 1,100 flights in 2024,” Yadav said. He emphasized that the airport’s growing infrastructure, under the UDAN initiative, is transforming regional development by making smaller towns like Lilabari more accessible and promoting economic growth. Yadav further explained how the Lilabari Airport has contributed to the region’s economic upliftment and tourism. By offering convenient travel options, the airport has shortened travel times, which has had a positive impact on local tourism. “The terminal’s seating capacity has been expanded to accommodate the growing number of passengers,” he noted. Lilabari’s transformation into a regional hub has boosted local commerce, offering new growth opportunities for businesses in the area.

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Chennai’s bioluminescent waves spark wonder

Recently, a rare and captivating sight appeared at the East Coast Road (ECR) beach in Chennai—blue bioluminescent waves. Videos of the glowing waves crashing onto the beach quickly gained attention on social media. Rajya Sabha MP Anbumani Ramadoss shared a video of the phenomenon, expressing his amazement. Have you ever had the chance to witness this phenomenon? These occurrences of bioluminescence are unpredictable and rely heavily on specific environmental factors. The most crucial factors include water temperature, salinity levels, and the presence of bioluminescent microorganisms, The microorganisms emit light, creating a glowing effect in the water, particularly when disturbed by waves, currents, or even footsteps along the shore. This ethereal glow can be fleeting, as even slight changes in temperature or water quality can impact the visibility of the phenomenon, making it a rare and elusive sight for those hoping to catch a glimpse.

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Bengaluru Airport's Terminal 2 Redefines Travel With Exceptional Dining Options

Bengaluru's Kempegowda International Airport has redefined the airport experience with the launch of its upgraded Terminal 2. Known as the 'Terminal in a Garden,' T2 seamlessly integrates nature with cutting-edge architecture. Upon entering, passengers are greeted by lush greenery and sustainable interiors, creating an atmosphere more akin to a serene retreat than a bustling travel hub. However, the real highlight of T2 is its extraordinary dining options. Whether you prefer traditional dishes or global favourites, the terminal is nothing short of a culinary haven, offering a wide range of options that include well-known brands and outlets making their debut in India. One of the key attractions is the award-winning 080 Lounge, where travellers can relax and enjoy a menu curated by celebrity chef Ranveer Brar. For those seeking a more casual setting, Radio Station offers a bar-style atmosphere, serving drinks and dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. Coffee aficionados will appreciate Kodagu Cafe's authentic South Indian filter coffee. Additionally, the Business Class Lounge - Qila offers an impressive menu featuring dishes like Paneer Butter Masala and Kozhi Ghee Roast, alongside desserts such as Saffron and Pista Gulab Jamun, all prepared with ingredients sourced within a 50-mile radius, ensuring fresh and local flavours. Terminal 2's dining experience extends beyond local cuisine, with international culinary heavyweights like Wolfgang Puck and James Martin Kitchen offering gourmet meals in an elegant setting. PF Chang's, making its Indian debut, brings a fresh take on Asian fusion cuisine. For a taste of tradition, Maiyas offers authentic Karnataka dishes, while Gully Kitchen serves up street food favourites like biryanis, dosas, and samosas. International brands such as Johnny Rockets and Hard Rock Cafe are also present, offering American classics and signature burgers. Giraffe adds to the global variety with a menu spanning diverse international cuisines.

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