News

Travelport agrees multi-source content deal with Finnair

Finnair has expanded its agreement with Travelport to include both New Distribution Capability (NDC) and traditional content and servicing capabilities. The move means that Travelport+ users will be able to access multi-source content from Finnair, including ancillary services. In a statement on Tuesday (30 July) the companies said they are “currently collaborating” on the rollout of the carrier’s NDC content through the platform. Finnair VP of global sales and channel management, Jenni Suomela, said: “This collaboration with Travelport will elevate our NDC programme as we continue to scale and drive adoption among agencies and travel retailers.” Travelport global head of air partners, Damian Hickey, added: “We are committed to delivering retail-ready multi-source content that our agency customers can easily sell and service for partners like Finnair, because modern travel retailing needs to work seamlessly for everyone.” The agreement follows recent NDC distribution deals for Travelport with the likes of Etihad, Emirates, and Spanish carrier Iberia.

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Mindtrip’s Start Anywhere the Future of Flexible Travel Planning

Mindtrip, an AI-powered platform designed to revolutionize travel planning, has introduced a groundbreaking feature called Start Anywhere. This new functionality allows travelers to instantly create their dream itineraries from any source of inspiration for the first time. Whether it’s a snapshot from a travel website, a post by a content creator on social media, or an article from a well-known publication, Start Anywhere enables users to easily upload a screenshot or URL to Mindtrip. In just seconds, the platform processes the content and generates a fully customizable itinerary or list. Catering to all types of travel—from leisure and adventure to business and group trips—Start Anywhere breaks down the traditional boundaries of travel platforms, offering a flexible and intuitive way for people to plan and experience their journeys. “People don’t plan travel in a linear fashion, yet the travel industry continues to offer only platforms that do just that,” said Andy Moss, Co-founder and CEO of Mindtrip. “However, at Mindtrip, we believe that planning for the adventure should be as fun as the adventure itself. We’ve developed Start Anywhere to enable people everywhere to turn all of the incredible travel content online into something actionable. You want recommendations for 36 hours in Miami? Now you have it. With reports showing that 75 percent of people find travel inspiration on social sites or online, we are excited to see what travelers do with this game-changing technology and how it will transform the way we all approach planning vacations.” Designed with a socially savvy audience in mind, Start Anywhere is remarkably easy to use. Users can sign up for a Mindtrip account and simply capture the URL of a travel website, blog post, YouTube video, or a screenshot of travel content from Instagram, TikTok, or a favorite publication. After uploading it to Mindtrip, the platform’s AI quickly translates the content into a comprehensive itinerary. This includes daily recommendations for activities, places to visit, and dining options, all tailored to the user’s preferences and the content provided. If users have already booked a hotel or flight, Start Anywhere has them covered as well. They can upload a screenshot of their receipt or forward a confirmation email to Mindtrip, and the platform will create a detailed itinerary that aligns with their travel dates and locations. Start Anywhere also offers Creators a new revenue opportunity. By joining the Mindtrip Creator program, they can generate a unique Magic link and embed it in their travel content, whether in descriptions, posts, bios, or comments. When someone clicks on the Creator’s Magic link, Mindtrip generates a personalized itinerary or list based on the Creator’s recommendations, turning their insights into actionable travel plans for their audience. Mindtrip compensates Creators for each new user registered through their link, allowing them to earn extra income while providing added value to their followers. “As travel content creators, Start Anywhere is super helpful,” said The Criders. “To be able to turn our content into actionable recommendations for our followers, just by including a link, is not only time-saving, but also a game changer for travelers.”

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Antara River Cruises recognised for sustainability excellence

Antara River Cruises is selected as a finalist in the Best Sustainability Initiative category by the prestigious UK-based Wave Awards 2024, celebrating their 10th anniversary this year. This recognition highlights the effort and vision of the pioneers of river cruising in India. With a fleet of nine vessels, Antara River Cruises offers a slow and sustainable way to explore India, allowing guests to discover new cultures and destinations along the waterways, immersing them in unforgettable experiences. Their various itineraries offer fantastic opportunities for anyone looking to explore South Asian culture in some of its most ancient regions, perfect for leisure travellers, history buffs, culture enthusiasts, and nature lovers. “This is an extremely proud moment for us at Antara River Cruises. We are delighted to be chosen as one of the finalists in the sustainability category by Wave Awards, the cruise industry’s leading event. These awards celebrate excellence in the cruise holiday sector, and it is indeed a great honor for us to be counted among the best in the river cruising business,” said Raj Singh, Chairman, Exotic Heritage Group, promoters of Antara River Cruises. Last year, Antara River Cruises won the Magellan Award for the World’s Longest River Cruise. The Antara Ganga Vilas was awarded Silver in the Overall River Cruising category at the Travel Weekly Magellan Awards 2023. The rivership sailed from Varanasi to Dibrugarh via Dhaka in Bangladesh, traversing 3200 km over 51 days, across 2 countries, 5 states, and 27 river systems. Early this year, Antara River Cruises launched two-cabin catamarans to traverse the Bhitarkanika mangrove wetland in Odisha, also known as the ‘mini Amazon of India’, on India’s first hybrid solar electric + fuel-powered boats. “As a business that is conscious of responsible and sustainable travel, we have developed and implemented various environmental and socially conscious policies both on and off-board to ensure our positive contribution to ecology and economic development,” added Singh. Antara River Cruises has undertaken several sustainable measures, including using solar power for electrical onboard usage, installing water and wastewater treatment plants, utilising highly effective oil-water separator machines, and maintaining a plastic-free environment with biodegradable items and refillable metal water bottles. Other sustainability initiatives include the use of energy-efficient LED lights, shore power connections on jetties to reduce generator usage, hospital-grade silencers on cruise generators to reduce noise pollution, and changing room linens and towels every other day unless required or requested. The company also employs lower-polluting ‘green’ fuel for power and navigation. On a broader footing, Antara River Cruises is directly engaged in wildlife and habitat conservation projects in partnership with NGOs. These initiatives underscore their commitment to sustainable travel and responsible tourism, setting a benchmark in the river cruising industry.

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Gujarat betting big on tourism with its upcoming lion-leopard safari park

As per the latest development, tourists visiting the enchanting white desert of Kutch and the serene beaches of Diu will soon have the opportunity to take part on thrilling wildlife trails, thanks to an exciting development in Gujarat. If reports are to go by, the state government’s proposal to establish lion-leopard safari parks has received approval from the Central Zoo Authority of India (CZAI), marking a significant advancement in both tourism and wildlife conservation efforts. The twin safari parks, set to be developed along the lines of the existing Devalia safari park, will be located at Narayan Sarovar in Kutch and Naliya-Mandvi (Una taluka) in Gir Somnath. These parks aim to enhance Gujarat’s tourism landscape while contributing to wildlife conservation. Nityanand Srivastava, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife), announced, “The CZAI has given its final approval. We will now submit the proposal to the Supreme Court for its endorsement, as these sanctuaries will be established on forest land.” Earlier this year, the Supreme Court mandated that forest land must receive prior approval before being designated as zoos or safari parks under the Forest Conservation (Amendment) Act 2023. This new regulatory step ensures that the establishment of such parks aligns with legal and environmental standards. The proposed Narayan Sarovar safari park is expected to be a major attraction for Kutch, offering enclosures for both lions and leopards in the region’s unique flora and fauna. Chief Conservator of Forests (CCF), Kutch, Sandeep Kumar, added that this safari park will significantly boost tourism by providing visitors with an immersive wildlife experience in the region. Similarly, the Naliya-Mandvi safari park, announced earlier this year by Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, will be situated about 8 km from Diu and will also cover nearly 400 hectares of forest land. In a broader move to boost wildlife conservation, the Gujarat state government had decided in March to create multi-species safari parks across the state. Departing from the traditional single-species safari model, these new parks will showcase a variety of animal species, offering visitors a richer and more diverse experience. In addition to these safari parks, the CZAI has approved the establishment of a cheetah breeding center in the Banni area of Kutch. This center, covering over 500 hectares, will be India’s first facility dedicated to the breeding of cheetahs. The state forest department has been working diligently since March to prepare the site, which will feature special open-to-air isolation enclosures designed to support the mating behavior of cheetahs. Three such enclosures, totaling 120 square meters, will be constructed, with separate areas designated for males and females. Gujarat’s new wildlife initiatives promise to enhance the state’s tourism appeal while advancing conservation efforts. With the addition of these safari parks and the cheetah breeding center, Gujarat is set to become a key destination for wildlife enthusiasts and conservationists alike.

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Amitabh Bachchan's life-size statue in the US listed as tourist spot on Google Maps

There is no denying the fact that Bollywood legend Amitabh Bachchan's influence stretches far beyond the silver screen. According to recent reports, a new tourist attraction in Edison, New Jersey, is drawing considerable attention: a life-size statue of the iconic actor, set up by Indian-American businessman Gopi Seth. The statue has recently been featured on Google Maps, further increasing its visibility. Unveiled in August 2022, the statue stands proudly outside Seth's residence, situated around 35 km south of Manhattan. This striking tribute to Bachchan was inspired by Seth's deep admiration for the actor, transforming his home into a must-visit landmark for Bollywood enthusiasts. Edison, with a significant Indian-American population, has a profound appreciation for Bollywood, making the statue a cherished addition. Seth’s initiative has turned his home into a cultural landmark, drawing visitors from around the world. Reports add that the statue’s growing popularity was soon acknowledged by Google Maps, which listed it as a tourist attraction. This recognition has significantly enhanced its visibility, attracting a steady stream of visitors. Referring to this, Seth shared, “Our home has become a popular destination thanks to the Amitabh Bachchan statue. The recognition by Google has helped us welcome an increasing number of guests each day.” The statue has now become a global sensation, drawing fans from across the globe. Daily, 20 to 25 cars filled with families arrive to see the statue, and click pictures. Visitors often leave behind greeting cards, letters, and tokens of their admiration, adding a personal touch to the experience. Social media has played a crucial role in amplifying the statue’s fame. Enthusiastic fans regularly share their experiences on platforms like Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok. These posts have further propelled the statue into the limelight, making it a trending destination online. For many, visiting the statue is a deeply personal experience. It represents more than just a tourist attraction; it’s an opportunity to connect with the legacy of an actor whose performances have left a lasting impact. The heartfelt tributes left by visitors underscore the profound effect Bachchan has had on his audience. In short, the life-size statue of Amitabh Bachchan in Edison, New Jersey, is not just a tribute but a symbol of the actor’s far-reaching influence.

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A quick guide to Paris Olympics 2024 for Indian fans

The 2024 Paris Olympics has certainly sparked a wave of excitement. On Day 4, India witnessed a historic moment as star pistol shooter Manu Bhaker secured her second medal of the Games. Already a bronze medalist in the 10m individual pistol event, Bhaker achieved another bronze in the 10m mixed team pistol event, teaming up with Sarabjot Singh. This impressive feat not only highlights Bhaker's exceptional talent but also marks a significant milestone for Indian shooting at the Olympics. In hockey, the Indian team triumphed over Ireland with a 2-0 victory in their third Pool B match. Despite enduring a strong second-half push from Ireland, India managed to hold their ground. In anticipation of more medals to come, here’s the Indian fan’s guide to the 2024 Paris Olympics. Getting around Paris Paris is renowned for its efficient and extensive public transportation system. The Paris Métro is a convenient way to travel between Olympic venues, tourist spots, and your accommodation. Consider purchasing a Paris Visite pass for unlimited travel on public transport. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are also readily available. Where to stay Finding the right accommodation can enhance your Olympic experience. For a central location, consider staying in the 1st, 4th, or 7th arrondissements, which offer easy access to key attractions and Olympic venues. If you prefer a more budget-friendly option, neighbourhoods like Montmartre or Bastille provide a mix of affordability and charm. Dining in Paris Paris is a culinary haven, and exploring its diverse food scene is a must. Indulge in classic French dishes like croissants, baguettes, and escargot. For a taste of home, look for Indian restaurants scattered throughout the city. Popular areas with a concentration of Indian eateries include the 10th arrondissement and Rue du Faubourg Saint-Denis. Must-see attractions While in Paris, take time to visit iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, and Notre-Dame Cathedral. Stroll through the historic Marais district or relax in the beautiful Jardin des Tuileries. The 2024 Olympics will also feature events at renowned venues like the Stade de France and the Parc des Princes, which are worth visiting. Experiencing the Olympics To get the most out of the Olympic experience, plan your visit to the venues early. Purchase tickets well in advance through official channels and check the schedule to catch events featuring Indian athletes. Olympic Park fan zones will offer interactive exhibits and entertainment, providing additional excitement beyond the competitions. Tips for enjoying Paris Lastly, remember to familiarise yourself with local customs and etiquette. Learning a few basic French phrases can enhance your interactions. Keep an eye on the weather forecast and dress accordingly, as Parisian weather can be unpredictable.

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