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Michael Portillo Hosts BBC Player’s New Series Exploring India by Train

Launching 12 August on Prime Video, “Great Indian Railway Journeys” explores India’s rich culture and landscapes via its iconic railways. Launching on Monday, 12 August on Prime Video Channels, the BBC Studios’ streaming service, BBC Player, proudly unveils “Great Indian Railway Journeys.” This series offers a mesmerizing voyage across India’s vast railway expanse, introducing viewers to the multifaceted Indian culture, breathtaking environments, and modern technological feats. Guided by Michael Portillo, the esteemed British broadcaster and fervent railway aficionado, the series provides an immersive experience aboard India’s most thrilling trains. Journeying from the vibrant avenues of Delhi to Kerala’s serene backwaters, the frosty summits of the Himalayas, and the lustrous deserts of Rajasthan, this show explores the varied customs and lifestyles defining modern India. A standout feature of the series is Portillo’s exploration of India’s regal heritage, where he visits grand palaces and delves into the sumptuous lifestyles of the maharajas, revealing the grandeur of India’s royal past. “Great Indian Railway Journeys” also highlights the technological strides of Indian Railways, blending heritage with cutting-edge advancements, and maps the evolution from classic steam engines to contemporary high-speed rail services, showcasing India’s journey into the modern era. Talking about the debut of Great Indian Railway Journeys on BBC Player, Stanley Fernandes, Vice President of Distribution, South Asia, BBC Studios, said, “We are thrilled to bring audiences another gem that will take viewers along on this unforgettable journey through India’s soul-stirring landscapes and vibrant cultures in a unique travel format. Through Great Indian Railway Journeys, we aim to showcase the essence of new India fulfilled by its diversity, history, and enduring spirit.”

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Myanmar is Surging Travel Industry with Visa Free Entry to 45 Countries

As of August 2024, Myanmar citizens can travel to 45 countries visa free or visa on arrival, further enhancing their global mobility and fostering international connections. Myanmar, located in the western part of mainland Southeast Asia, boasts a rich history and diverse cultural heritage. In 1989, the country’s official English name changed from the Union of Burma to the Union of Myanmar, a name it has held in the Burmese language as Myanma (or Mranma Prañ) since the 13th century. The capital city, known as Rangoon in English, also adopted its common Burmese name, Yangon, in 1989. TTW Editor in Chief Mr. Anup Kumar Keshan said: “As of August 2024, Myanmar citizens enjoy increased global mobility, with visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 45 countries. This boost in international connectivity complements Myanmar’s rich history and diverse cultural heritage. Additionally, the capital city adopted its Burmese name, Yangon, that same year. Myanmar’s geography, featuring complex northern mountain ranges and significant monsoon influences, shapes its distinct climate and hydrology, including key rivers like the Irrawaddy and Salween.“ Geography and Climate The northern mountains of Myanmar feature a series of ranges forming a complex knot at Mount Hkakabo, marking the northeastern limit of the Indian-Australian Plate’s encroachment, which has been colliding with the southern edge of the Eurasian Plate for the past 50 million years. This region contains the sources of several of Asia’s great rivers, including the Irrawaddy and the Salween (Thanlwin). Myanmar’s climate is influenced by its geographical position and relief, lying primarily under the influence of monsoon winds. The north-south alignment of ranges and valleys creates alternating zones of heavy and scanty precipitation, with most of the precipitation coming from the southwest monsoon. Outbound Tourism and Travel Trends Myanmar’s passport offers visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to several countries, including Bolivia, Brunei, Burundi, Cambodia, Cape Verde Islands, Comoro Islands, Cook Islands, Djibouti, Dominica, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, and Haiti. This accessibility encourages Myanmar’s residents to explore international destinations, fostering a growing trend in outbound tourism. Myanmar’s outbound tourism has been expanding as more citizens seek to explore new destinations, driven by increasing disposable incomes and a growing interest in international travel. Popular outbound destinations for Myanmar travelers include nearby countries in Southeast Asia such as Thailand, Singapore, and Malaysia, as well as destinations like Dubai and Japan. This trend is supported by improved connectivity and a broader range of flight options from Myanmar’s major airports.

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New Tamil Nadu Travel Expo Set for 2024 to Enhance State’s Tourism Appeal

Tamil Nadu’s tourism stakeholders have come together to unveil the Tamil Nadu Travel Expo (TTE) in 2024. This groundbreaking event is designed to elevate Tamil Nadu’s tourism profile and attract a larger influx of visitors to the state. Tourism is a crucial sector in Tamil Nadu, providing employment opportunities and earning foreign exchange. Known as one of India’s top tourist destinations, the state offers a diverse array of attractions, from majestic temples and scenic mountains to serene forests and picturesque beaches. Additionally, Tamil Nadu is a leading medical tourism hub and is increasingly recognized as a premier wedding destination. The Tamil Nadu Travel Expo (TTE) is a buyer-seller meet organized by Travel Club, Madurai, the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), and the South India Hotels and Restaurants Association (SIHRA), with support from the Department of Tourism, Government of Tamil Nadu, and the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India. The inaugural edition of TTE is set to take place in Madurai from September 20 to 22, 2024, at the IDA Scudder Auditorium, adjacent to the Grand Madurai by GRT Hotels. TTE will host 250 prospective buyers from India and neighboring countries such as Malaysia, Singapore, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh. The event will cover all expenses for lodging and boarding for these buyers, who include tour operators, travel agents, and influencers keen on promoting Tamil Nadu’s travel and tourism offerings to their clients. The expo will feature 150 to 200 stakeholders and sellers from Tamil Nadu’s heritage tourism industry, medical and wellness tourism, and destination wedding event planners. These sellers will showcase Tamil Nadu’s unique experiences through themed stalls and table displays. On September 22, the TTE will open its doors to the public to promote Tamil Nadu’s diverse tourism themes. Hosted buyers will gain a deep understanding of Tamil Nadu’s tourism experiences, rich culture, heritage, and cuisine. The event will include knowledge-sharing sessions with distinguished speakers from across the country. Additionally, a gala awards night will honor exceptional contributions to Tamil Nadu Tourism. Various post-event tours will be arranged for buyers, offering them the opportunity to explore Tamil Nadu’s diverse destinations and cultural experiences. The success of TTE is bolstered by commitments from hotels, tour operators, transport providers, and other tourism stakeholders, who are sponsoring accommodation, food, transport, and other services. Mr. T Nataraajan, the Honorary Secretary of SIHRA has been appointed as a Convenor of the event. DMD of GRT Hotels & Resorts shared “The Tourism development in India is crossing new heights after Covid epidemic. The tourism in South India has also improved multi-fold but there is always a feeling that there are still many locations in Tamil Nadu that needs exposure across India and abroad. Tamil Nadu Travel Mart Society (TTMS) was doing yeomen services after a long time hosting Travel Marts in Chennai during 2017 and 2019. After 5 years the need to have a Travel Expo at Madurai was strongly felt by all stakeholders and Travel Club Madurai has taken the initiative along with CII and Hoteliers to make this happening in Madurai during September 2024.I am sure that the overwhelming response from the buyers in India and abroad gives the hoteliers an opportunity to position their hotels / resorts in the market which will go a long way in marketing Tamil Nadu globally.” Dr. G Vasudevan, Managing Director of Fortune Pandiyan Hotel, Madurai, has been appointed as the co-convenor of the Tamil Nadu Travel Expo (TTE) 2024. Mr. Vikram Cotah, Chairman of the Tourism Task Force of CII, CEO, GRT Hotels & Resorts adds “TTE is an endeavour by the industry stakeholders to promote Tamil Nadu Tourism by showcasing relevant themes like Heritage and Spiritual Tourism, Medical and wellness tourism and also to position Tamil Nadu as a Destination wedding option. We are expecting to attract 250 buyers from all over India, Malaysia, Singapore, Sri Lanka and 150 sellers from Tamil Nadu to the TTE event. We expect the B2B marketplace to create opportunities to market Tamil Nadu as a Tourism destination. We are happy to announce that important bodies like CII, SIHRA, Travel Club Madurai, Hoteliers and Travel agents are participating to organise this event in Madurai during September 20/21/22, 2024. TTE is also endorsed by TTDC, Govt. of Tamil Nadu and Southern Regional office of India Tourism. We hope to make this an annual event in the gateway cities of Tamil Nadu in the years to come”

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Archaeologists discover 2700-year-old massive Etruscan Temple in Tuscany, Italy

In an extraordinary discovery, archaeologists have unearthed a 2700-year-old Etruscan cult temple at the Sasso Pinzuto necropolis in Tuscany, Italy. It’s being called a groundbreaking discovery as the temple is among the largest of its kind, offering an invaluable insight into ancient Etruscan religious practices. More about this ancient settlement The site has been under exploration since the 1830s and is connected to the nearby Etruscan settlement of Colle San Pietro and comprises over 120 chamber tombs dating from the 7th century BCE to the Hellenistic period. The recent excavation by the Centre for Ancient Mediterranean and Near Eastern Studies (CAMNES) in collaboration with the University of Naples Federico II revealed a rectangular temple structure, known as an Oikos, measuring 6.2 by 7.1 meters. This temple is supported by tuffaceous opus quadratum foundations. The discovery is particularly significant as it provides tangible evidence of Etruscan cult structures, previously inferred from polychrome clay slabs found in the region. These clay slabs, dating to the second quarter of the sixth century BCE, are decorated with molded reliefs depicting elite Etruscan festivities, processions, banquets, and other ceremonial activities. The slabs were originally stacked in ditches around burial mounds, suggesting they were integral to cult structures. The excavation site spans nearly 1,000 square meters and features three mounds with crepidines embedded into opus quadratum and tufa. To the north of the largest mound, which measures over 10 meters in diameter, nine smaller trenches associated with cult and funeral activities were discovered. This find not only sheds light on Etruscan funerary cults but also enhances our understanding of their architectural and religious practices. Tuscany, a region in central Italy, is noted for its beautiful landscapes, rich history, and cultural heritage. Known for its rolling hills, vineyards, and charming medieval towns, Tuscany offers a picturesque backdrop of olive groves, cypress trees, and historic architecture. The region is home to iconic cities such as Florence, renowned for its Renaissance art and architecture, and Siena, famous for its medieval cityscape and annual Palio horse race. Tuscany’s culinary scene, featuring world-class wines and traditional Italian cuisine, complements its historical and natural allure, making it a sought-after destination for travellers and culture enthusiasts alike.

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Sweden’s sunken treasure: 19-th century champagne found

The latest discovery of a 19th-century shipwreck off the southern coast of Sweden has captivated both historians and divers alike. If reports are to go by, the wreck, resting at a depth of about 58 m (190 ft) in the Baltic Sea near the county of Blekinge, contains nearly 100 bottles of Champagne and mineral water. Found by Polish scuba divers on July 11, this remarkable find has sparked a flurry of interest and stringent regulations to protect its historical value. For those interested in combining travel with historical discovery, this shipwreck provides a fascinating dive destination for underwater exploration. However, it also highlights the crucial need for responsible exploration and preservation to ensure that such finds can be enjoyed by future generations. Reportedly, the shipwreck's location had been known since 2016 and was registered with Sweden's National Antiquities Office. However, it wasn't until the recent dive that the precious cargo was uncovered. The discovery has led to a rush of wine and water experts eager to examine the well-preserved bottles, which offer a glimpse into maritime history and the luxurious tastes of the late 19th century. Officials have swiftly intervened, declaring the shipwreck and its contents an ‘ancient relic’ deserving of strong protection. Magnus Johansson, a county official, said that removing items from the wreck, such as the Champagne bottles, requires proper authorisation. “The champagne bottles are a fantastically well-preserved find that gives us a snapshot of shipping and life on board at the end of the 19th century,” Johansson remarked. The authorities' stance explains the cultural and historical significance of the wreck, which might have been en route to elite destinations, such as the royal court in Stockholm or the Russian tsar’s residence in St. Petersburg. For diving enthusiasts and history buffs, this discovery highlights the exciting intersection of underwater exploration and historical discovery. The wreck serves as a reminder of the fascinating stories that lie beneath the waves, waiting to be uncovered. However, it also brings to light the importance of responsible exploration and preservation. While this ancient shipwreck offers a tantalizing glimpse into the past, it also sets a precedent for how such finds should be handled with care and respect. The ongoing protection of this historical site reflects the broader principles of underwater heritage conservation, ensuring that future generations can also explore and learn from these submerged treasures. As the world turns its gaze towards the depths of the sea, both the thrill of discovery and the responsibility of preservation go hand in hand. This recent find off the Swedish coast not only enriches our understanding of maritime history, but also reinforces the need for careful stewardship of our underwater heritage.

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Thailand plans to boost tourism by legalising casinos

In a bid to revive its tourism industry, Thailand is planning to move towards legalising casinos. The Council of State has introduced a draft bill, open for public feedback until August 18, which outlines a framework for integrating casinos into large entertainment complexes. About the plan Following the recent regulatory updates in the United Arab Emirates, which set new rules for gaming, Thailand's draft bill represents a significant shift. The document proposes that casinos be incorporated into extensive resorts, with gambling areas limited to no more than 5% of the total project area. The remaining space will be dedicated to hotels, entertainment venues, and other complementary facilities. The draft bill also includes provisions for a "reasonable" entry fee for Thai citizens, similar to Singapore’s approach, which generated SGD147 million ($109 million) in entry levies during the latest reporting period. Casino licenses would be issued for 30 years, with the possibility of a 10-year renewal, and only private companies with a minimum paid-up capital of THB 10 billion ($285 million) would be permitted to operate these venues. Earlier this year, a special House committee recommended the legalisation of integrated resorts, a proposal that received cabinet endorsement. The finance ministry’s feasibility study, involving 17 agencies, underscores the government’s commitment to exploring this economic opportunity. Economic analysts predict that legalizing casinos could potentially boost Thailand’s tourism revenue by $12 billion annually. This substantial increase would significantly benefit an industry that represents about 12% of the country’s $500 billion economy. By positioning itself as a key player in the casino market, Thailand aims to generate revenues comparable to established gaming hubs. The integrated resort sector, which combines casinos with hotels, convention centers, dining, entertainment, luxury retail, and themed attractions, is already competitive across Asia. Countries like Macau, Singapore, Cambodia, Vietnam, the Philippines, South Korea, Malaysia, and Japan are actively developing their own integrated resort markets. Although specific locations for Thailand’s casinos are yet to be determined, major tourist cities such as Bangkok, Phuket, Chiang Mai, and Pattaya are likely candidates. The draft bill suggests that these resorts should be situated within 100 kilometers of major airports to facilitate easy access for international travellers.

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