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Cunard captivates Indian travellers with tailored cruise experiences

Griffon Cruises, currently promoting the iconic British cruising company Cunard Line, is tailoring its offerings to attract Indian travellers. Cunard, known for its renowned ships like Queen Elizabeth, Queen Mary 2, Queen Victoria, and the newly launched Queen Anne, is enhancing its appeal to the Indian market. “Cunard Line is known for its British heritage and its transatlantic cruises, giving Indian travellers a peek into the bygone era when the only medium for cross-border travel was a ship,” said Vivek Jain, Managing Director of Griffon Cruises. Cunard offers various sailings, including transatlantic routes from Southampton to New York and round-the-world cruises. Other itineraries include the East and West Mediterranean, the British Isles, Norwegian fjords, the Atlantic coast, and the Canary Islands. “We cover most of Europe, Japan for cherry blossom season, as well as Australia in the summer months, Alaska, and the Caribbean Islands,” Jain added. This year, Griffon has focused on promoting Cunard’s East and West Mediterranean sailings and the fjords. “We also did bookings for cherry blossom season. The British Isles and the Northern Lights are doing great for the Diwali season. In October, we are focusing on European sailings, starting from 7-day itineraries. We also have shorter sailings of 2-3 nights,” Jain noted. For the Indian clientele, Cunard is seen as an aspirational product. “It’s an old English charm, and the luxury attracts Indian travellers. We have so much focus on the Indian market that we serve Indian food on our group movements. On the Queen Anne, there is an Indian restaurant as well,” Jain explained. In recent years, there has been a growing interest among Indians in cruise holidays. Jain shared his experience, stating, “I have been selling cruises for the last 20 years when the concept itself wasn’t understood in the market. With ‘Dil Dhadakne Do’ being shot on Pullmantur ships, gradually we started educating people on the cruise experience. On Cunard, we do a lot of English activities, therefore there are guests who are mature enough to undertake a 14-day sailing.” Griffon Cruises’ efforts to adapt to Indian tastes and preferences highlight the increasing demand for luxury cruise experiences among Indian travellers.

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Royal Air Maroc Launches New Digital Era with Amadeus Collaboration

Royal Air Maroc (RAM) has embarked on an ambitious journey to revolutionize its digital landscape through a strategic partnership with Amadeus. This collaboration is a cornerstone of RAM’s extensive development plan aimed at enhancing the overall customer experience. Leveraging the Amadeus Reference Experience, RAM aims to significantly improve online conversion rates, boost customer satisfaction, and foster greater loyalty. Passengers of Morocco’s flag-carrier can look forward to a seamless digital journey, featuring streamlined check-ins and access to comprehensive travel information. Additionally, the enhanced platform will enable travelers to effortlessly request and purchase extra services with just a few clicks. A key highlight of this transformation is the introduction of a cutting-edge mobile app. This app empowers passengers with a frictionless, self-service experience, from booking flights to checking in. It also offers the capability to find alternative flights in case of disruptions, ensuring a smooth and stress-free travel experience. Through this partnership, Royal Air Maroc is set to redefine its digital offerings, cementing its position as a forward-thinking airline committed to passenger convenience and satisfaction. Mr Hamid ADDOU, chairman of the board and CEO of Royal Air Maroc, said: “Royal Air Maroc is currently undergoing a strategic overhaul, with plans to establish the carrier as a global connector, serving all customer segments across five continents, by 2037. Technology will play a key role in our evolution, and we are confident our partners at Amadeus are best placed to support us in our digital transformation, tailored to our specific need.” Maher Koubaa, EVP Travel Unit and Managing Director EMEA, Amadeus, said: “Amadeus is proud to be RAM’s partner to support it in its very ambitious digital transformation plan. Thanks to our solution, RAM’s passengers will be able to update bookings at any time, through the channel of their choice, with no third party involved. This will help RAM differentiate, as it will be able to quickly adapt to customer needs and offer the best possible experience.” Royal Air Maroc, the flag-carrier of Morocco, connects the country to over 80 airports worldwide with a fleet of more than 50 aircraft. Last year, the airline initiated a major operational overhaul, aiming to quadruple its fleet and accommodate 32 million passengers annually by 2037.

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Akasa Air Celebrates Second Anniversary with Record-Breaking Growth

Akasa Air, India’s rapidly ascending airline, proudly marks its second anniversary today. This milestone highlights an extraordinary journey filled with remarkable achievements, unprecedented in Indian aviation history. Since its inaugural commercial flight on August 7, 2022, from Mumbai to Ahmedabad, Akasa Air has redefined the landscape of Indian aviation with its empathetic service culture, dependable operations, and affordable fares. As India’s most punctual airline, Akasa Air has consistently delivered operational excellence, earning it the loyalty of over 11 million passengers. This dedication to reliability, coupled with overwhelmingly positive customer feedback, has positioned Akasa Air as the preferred choice for many travelers. Embracing the mission of connecting people, cultures, and regions, Akasa Air has recorded triple-digit growth, establishing itself as the fastest-growing airline not only in India but in global aviation history. As it continues to expand its network and enhance its services, Akasa Air is set to soar to even greater heights in the years to come. Celebrating the milestone, Vinay Dube, Founder and CEO, Akasa Air, said, “Two years ago, we embarked on a journey with a vision to redefine air travel, and today, I can proudly say that we have successfully delivered on our purpose while upholding our commitment to reliability, service excellence and affordability. We offer an unparalleled flying experience with the most comfortable seat in the Indian skies, a fresh in-cabin experience and our carefully curated culinary offerings, delivered by our empathetic crew. In this past year, we have consistently been India’s leader in on-time performance while registering greater operational reliability, and the lowest customer complaints, and cancellations in the industry. The remarkable milestones Akasa Air has achieved over the past two years would not have been possible without the unwavering dedication of our team of over 4,000 Akasians. Their passion and hard work have been the driving force behind our collective accomplishments, enabling us to reach new heights in the aviation industry. Our success is also a testament to the steadfast support and confidence of our partners, who have been instrumental in our journey. We extend our heartfelt thanks to the Ministry of Civil Aviation and the DGCA for their relentless efforts in fostering the growth of the aviation industry. Their guidance and support have been pivotal in our achievements. We are profoundly grateful to our shareholders for their belief in our vision and their continuous support and guidance. As we look to the future, we are excited about the opportunities that lie ahead and remain committed to building an airline that makes India proud. Together, we will continue to soar, connecting people and cultures across the globe. Vinay added, “Akasa Air has always been more than a carrier flying from one place to another. It is the very embodiment of the Indian spirit, testifying to the potential that India holds as an aviation market”. Akasa Air has distinguished itself as the most punctual airline in India, underscoring its commitment to reliability. With a focus on service excellence and operational efficiency, Akasa Air’s robust scheduling and maintenance practices ensure seamless travel experiences for its passengers. In just two years, Akasa Air has expanded its network to include 22 domestic and five international cities, such as Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Chennai, Kochi, Delhi, Guwahati, Agartala, Pune, Lucknow, Goa, Hyderabad, Varanasi, Bagdogra, Bhubaneswar, Kolkata, Port Blair, Ayodhya, Gwalior, Srinagar, Prayagraj, Gorakhpur, Doha, Jeddah, Riyadh, Abu Dhabi, and Kuwait. With over 900 weekly flights, the airline has served more than 11 million passengers, showcasing its rapid growth and increasing popularity. In January 2024, Akasa Air made headlines by placing a firm order for 150 aircraft, a record achievement for any Indian airline within 17 months of operation. This landmark order reflects the airline’s solid financial foundation and ambitious expansion plans. In March 2024, Akasa Air became the first Indian airline to commence international operations within 19 months of launch. The airline quickly established a global presence, operating over 35 weekly flights to destinations like Doha, Riyadh, Abu Dhabi, Jeddah, and Kuwait within just 120 days. Akasa Air’s empathetic and youthful personality, coupled with an employee-friendly culture and a customer-centric approach, has made it a preferred choice for millions. The airline has introduced several industry-first and customer-friendly initiatives, redefining air travel in India. Café Akasa, the onboard meal service, has served 3.8 million meals, offering unique fusion dishes, regional appetizers, and decadent desserts. The airline’s pet-friendly policy, Pets on Akasa, has flown over 3,700 pets since its launch, with an enhanced cabin weight limit for pets.

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Vietnam is Surging Travel Industry with Visa Free Entry to 51 countries

Vietnam has seen significant growth in its outbound tourism sector in recent years. This trend is driven by a combination of economic growth, increasing disposable income, and an improved passport ranking that allows Vietnamese citizens to travel more freely to 51 countries visa-free as of August 2024. The country’s tourism boom is also supported by enhanced infrastructure, expanding international flight routes, and increasing interest in global travel among Vietnamese people. Vietnam, located in Southeast Asia, boasts a rich history and diverse geography. Historically, the country has experienced periods of colonization, war, and reunification, shaping its unique cultural and social landscape. Geographically, Vietnam features a long coastline along the South China Sea, the Red River Delta in the north, and the Mekong Delta in the south, making it a land of varied landscapes and climates. TTW Editor-in-Chief Mr. Anup Kumar Keshan stated: “This initiative marks a monumental shift for Vietnam’s outbound travel industry, empowering Vietnamese citizens to explore the world with unprecedented ease. With visa-free access to 51 countries as of August 2024, including key destinations such as Thailand, Iran, and Singapore, Vietnam is not only enhancing global mobility but also strengthening its cultural and economic ties with these countries. This move will undoubtedly encourage more Vietnamese travelers to embark on international adventures, enriching their experiences and fostering global connections.” As of 2024, Vietnam ranks 88th on the Henley Passport Index. This ranking reflects the number of countries that Vietnamese passport holders can travel to without a visa or with visa-on-arrival options. Currently, Vietnamese citizens can travel to 51 countries without needing a visa, enhancing their ability to explore the world. Vietnam’s Economy and GDP Vietnam’s economy has witnessed significant growth over the past decade, marked by a consistent increase in real GDP since 2019. In 2023, the GDP grew by about 5% compared to the previous year. This positive trend is expected to continue through 2029, driven by robust export activities, increasing domestic demand, and a thriving manufacturing sector. Real GDP, which measures the value of all goods and services produced within an economy and adjusts for inflation, serves as a crucial indicator of economic health. This growth has led to higher consumer spending, with average monthly incomes rising by 3.8% in 2018, fostering greater expenditure on popular consumer goods like those from Vinamilk and P/S. Projections for GDP growth rates from 2019 to 2029 reflect this optimism, with figures ranging from 2.55% to 8.12% annually. Vietnam Outbound Tourism Dynamics Vietnam’s Travel & Tourism market is poised for substantial growth in the coming years. By 2024, the market’s revenue is projected to reach $3,252 million. It is expected to maintain an impressive annual growth rate (CAGR 2024-2029) of 5.68%, leading to a market volume of $4,286 million by 2029. The Hotels segment will be the largest, with a projected market volume of $1,582 million in 2024. The number of users is anticipated to rise to 20.12 million by 2029, with user penetration increasing from 13.7% in 2024 to 21.1% by 2029. The average revenue per user (ARPU) is expected to be $239.20. Notably, 66% of the total revenue will likely be generated through online sales by 2029. On a global scale, the United States is projected to generate the most revenue in this market, with $214 billion in 2024. Vietnam’s market growth is driven by its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and diverse cultural offerings.

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Supreme Court committee recommends private vehicle ban in Sariska Tiger Reserve

In a significant move to protect tigers and their habitats in the Sariska Tiger Reserve (STR) in Rajasthan, the Central Empowered Committee (CEC) of the Supreme Court has recommended a complete ban on private vehicles by March 2025. The CEC's recommendations aim to mitigate the adverse impacts of vehicular traffic on the reserve, which is home to a growing population of tigers and other wildlife. The Sariska Tiger Reserve, which spans over 800 square kilometres, has been grappling with heavy traffic due to the influx of devotees visiting numerous temples within the reserve, including the well-known Pandupol temple situated 22 kilometres inside the core area. The unregulated movement of vehicles has raised concerns about the degradation of tiger habitats and the safety of the wildlife. To address these concerns, the CEC has proposed the introduction of electric shuttle buses as an alternative to private vehicles. This initiative aims to reduce pollution and minimise human disturbance in the core areas of the reserve. Additionally, the CEC has suggested exploring other transportation options such as tramways, elevated roads, motorable twin tunnels, or ropeways, based on feasibility studies. The CEC's recommendations were part of a report submitted to the Supreme Court on July 22, which is examining various issues affecting tiger conservation in the STR. The report highlights the negative impact of vehicular traffic, the presence of villages within the reserve, and encroachments by hotels and resorts. According to the report, a staggering 75,353 private vehicles entered the STR in the 2023-24 period, comprising 35,483 cars, 34,406 two-wheelers, and 464 buses. The report emphasises the detrimental effects of increased human presence on tiger conservation efforts. The rise in vehicular traffic and human activities has led to habitat degradation, pollution, encroachment, and fragmentation. The CEC noted that the number of pilgrims entering through the Sariska gate is significantly higher than those entering through the Tehla gate. To enhance the protection of tigers and their habitats, the CEC has recommended the establishment of a Special Tiger Protection Force in the STR. The increasing number of tigers and the presence of villages in and around the reserve heighten the risk of man-animal conflicts and poaching. The proposed force would play a crucial role in mitigating these risks and ensuring the safety of both the wildlife and the local communities. The ban on private vehicles and the introduction of alternative transportation methods are seen as vital steps towards preserving the habitats of tigers and other wildlife species in the STR. As the Supreme Court reviews the CEC's report and recommendations, it is hoped that these measures will be implemented promptly to safeguard the Sariska Tiger Reserve's unique biodiversity.

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Visa-on-arrival now for Japan, South Korea, and UAE tourists

In an exciting development for international travellers, India has introduced a visa-on-arrival facility for nationals from Japan, South Korea, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). This new provision, announced by the Ministry of Tourism, aims to streamline travel for tourists, business professionals, medical visitors, and conference attendees. As confirmed by Union Minister for Tourism and Culture Gajendra Singh Shekhawat in a Lok Sabha update, travellers from these three nations can now obtain a visa-upon-arrival at six designated Indian airports: Bengaluru, Delhi, Chennai, Kolkata, Hyderabad, and Mumbai. The visa-on-arrival is valid for up to 60 days and allows for double entry, providing enhanced flexibility for visitors. This initiative is part of India's broader strategy to boost tourism and simplify the travel process for international visitors. In addition to the visa-on-arrival, the Ministry of Tourism has expanded the e-visa facility, which now includes Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) for nationals from 167 countries. This e-visa allows entry through 30 international airports and six major seaports across India, significantly easing the way for international travellers to visit the country. The Ministry of Tourism continues to focus on improving the tourism experience through various measures. It conducts need-based surveys, research, and feasibility studies to inform policy development and assess existing programs. This data helps identify areas for improvement and ensures that tourism policies meet their intended objectives. For tourist safety, 15 state governments and Union Territory (UT) administrations have deployed tourist police, enhancing security and support for visitors. Additionally, the Ministry has established a 24x7 Multi-Lingual Tourist Info-Helpline, available toll-free at 1800111363 or via short code 1363. This service offers guidance and information in 12 languages, including 10 international ones, catering to both domestic and foreign tourists. The Swadesh Darshan scheme, launched in 2014-15, aims to develop tourism infrastructure across India. It provides financial assistance to states, UT administrations, and central agencies for tourism projects. Since its inception, the scheme has sanctioned 76 projects with a total funding of INR 5,287 crore, of which INR 4,944 crore has been released. The revamped Swadesh Darshan 2.0 (SD2.0) now focuses on creating sustainable and responsible tourism destinations with a tourist-centric approach. Additionally, the National Mission on Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual Heritage Augmentation Drive (PRASHAD) has been introduced to integrate the development of pilgrimage destinations. Under PRASHAD, INR 1,621.14 crore have been sanctioned, with INR 1,024.18 crore already released. These initiatives highlight India’s commitment to enhancing the travel experience and promoting sustainable tourism, making it an increasingly attractive destination for global travellers.

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