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Travel + Leisure Honors Hotel Casa Real of Viña Santa Rita as One of the World’s Best Hotels

Travel + Leisure, one of the world’s most influential tourism magazines, has announced the winners of the World’s Best Awards 2024. Among the top 100 hotels globally, Hotel Casa Real of Viña Santa Rita was ranked #40. In addition, the magazine compiled a list of the best resorts in South America, where Hotel Casa Real secured the second position. Situated in the Maipo Valley, just 45 minutes from Santiago, Hotel Casa Real is renowned for its heritage wine offerings. Guests can tour the 40-hectare centenary park, visit the neo-Gothic chapel adjacent to the hotel, explore over eight types of tours and historical cellars, and enjoy lunch at the Doña Paula restaurant. The Andean Museum, part of the Claro Vial Foundation, houses a collection of nearly 3,000 archaeological and ethnographic pieces from pre-Columbian cultures. For Elena Carretero, Corporate Affairs, Sustainability, and Tourism Manager of Viña Santa Rita, South America is an ideal choice for travellers seeking authentic and sophisticated experiences in the region, and this recognition is a clear reflection of the natural and cultural wealth that Chile has to offer. “Our country provides unique and memorable experiences, from the stunning landscapes of the north to the majesty of Patagonia, along with the wine tradition and history, which is one of Chile’s great ambassadors. Hotel Casa Real, along with the other distinguished hotels, symbolizes the effort and passion of the Chilean tourism industry to deliver its natural and cultural essence, forged and preserved over time, to be sustainably visited by national and international visitors. To this end, a world-class service and unparalleled hospitality have been developed. Additionally, wine represents Chile’s identity globally, and we are proud to be part of the effort to establish our country as a top-tier destination,” she says. Travel + Leisure’s World’s Best Awards annually highlight the finest in the travel industry, from hotels and resorts to destinations and airlines. These accolades are highly esteemed in the tourism sector and are based on reader surveys. Evaluation criteria include service quality, facilities, gastronomy, prime location, and the overall tourism offerings of each establishment. In the latest survey, 186,000 readers participated, casting over 700,000 votes for more than 8,700 establishments, including hotels, cities, and cruise lines. The complete list of winners across various categories can be viewed at this link. This recognition adds to the growing list of accolades for Viña Santa Rita. In April, the World Wine Tourism Organization (OMET) awarded the winery the title of “Best Responsible Wine Tourism Experience” globally. Last year, Hotel Casa Real was also named one of the seven best resorts in the region by Conde Nast through its Readers’ Choice Awards.

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Swosti Premium achieves 5-star Deluxe classification

Swosti Premium in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, after complete renovations and upgradaton in service standards, has now been upgraded from 5-star to 5-star Deluxe Classification by the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India. This prestigious recognition acknowledges our team’s tireless efforts, dedication and commitment to deliver excellence in service, amenities and overall guest experience. The 5-Star Deluxe classification is a testament towards luxurious accommodations and amenities, world-class dining experiences, exceptional service standard and State-of-the-art facilities and services. In the coming days, Swosti Group will be unveiling the first 5-star deluxe hotel in Puri to cater to domestic and international tourists.

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Suriname Tourism Surge as 24 countries Eligible Under Visa Free Travel Program

Suriname travel industry is experiencing a surge, fueled by its recent implementation of visa-free travel for 24 countries, including Japan, Malaysia, and Russia. This strategic move is expected to significantly boost tourism, attracting visitors from diverse regions and enhancing the country’s appeal as a premier travel destination. Suriname, located on the northeastern coast of South America, is characterized by its vast tropical rainforests. The economy is heavily reliant on its abundant natural resources, particularly bauxite, of which it is one of the world’s leading producers. Suriname is a culturally diverse nation with influences from the Caribbean, India, Africa, Asia, and the United States, reflected in its varied cuisine, musical styles, and languages. Expats living in Suriname enjoy good access to shops, restaurants, healthcare, and educational facilities.The country with the most visitors to Suriname is typically the Netherlands. This is due to historical connections, as Suriname was a former Dutch colony, and there are strong cultural and familial ties between the two countries. Suriname experienced a steady increase in tourist arrivals from 2010 to 2017, reaching a peak of 279,000 visitors in 2017, the highest in 22 years. The country’s rich cultural heritage, and diverse wildlife attract visitors worldwide. Despite some fluctuations, Suriname’s tourism industry demonstrates promising growth. Airports in Suriname: Johan Adolf Pengel International Airport located near Zanderij, is Suriname’s main airport, handling over 200,000 passengers annually. It serves as the primary gateway for international travelers, connecting Suriname with major destinations worldwide. Zorg en Hoop Airport (IATA: ORG), situated in Paramaribo, primarily serves domestic flights and some regional destinations, handling around 30,000 passengers annually. It plays a crucial role in connecting the capital with remote areas within Suriname. Laduani Airstrip (IATA: LDO), located in the interior of Suriname, primarily supports charter and domestic flights, handling approximately 5,000 passengers annually. It is essential for access to remote regions and serves as a vital link for local communities and tourists. Moengo Airstrip,located in the eastern part of Suriname, primarily handles domestic flights and charter services, accommodating around 3,000 passengers annually. It provides crucial connectivity for the town of Moengo and surrounding areas. Vliegveld Wageningen, situated in the Nickerie District of Suriname, primarily caters to domestic flights, handling approximately 2,000 passengers annually. It serves as an important hub for agricultural regions and local communities. Airlines in Suriname: Surinam Airways (SLM): The national airline, based at Johan Adolf Pengel International Airport, handles approximately 150,000 passengers annually, operating international flights to major destinations in the Americas and the Caribbean. Fly All Ways (FAW): Based at Johan Adolf Pengel International Airport, this airline serves around 50,000 passengers annually, offering regional and international flights connecting Suriname with neighboring countries. Blue Wing Airlines (BWI): Based at Zorg en Hoop Airport, Blue Wing Airlines primarily operates domestic and regional flights across Suriname and the Caribbean, handling about 20,000 passengers annually. Gum Air (GUM): Headquartered at Zorg en Hoop Airport, Gum Air provides charter services and domestic flights to remote locations within Suriname, accommodating around 10,000 passengers annually. MAF Suriname (MAF): Based at Zorg en Hoop Airport, MAF Suriname specializes in humanitarian and mission flights to remote and underserved areas, transporting approximately 5,000 passengers annually. Suriname, a country rich in cultural heritage and natural beauty, offers a unique blend of historical sites, vibrant festivals, and diverse wildlife. With its welcoming locals and increasing tourist infrastructure, Suriname presents an attractive destination for travelers seeking adventure and cultural experiences. From the bustling streets of Paramaribo to the serene rainforests and rivers, Suriname promises an unforgettable journey filled with memorable encounters and breathtaking landscapes.

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Top Asian passports: Countries that consistently ranked in top 10

In today's interconnected world, the power of a passport cannot be overstated. This humble document almost single-handedly determines the ease with which its holder can cross borders and explore new horizons. The Henley Passport Index, a prestigious global ranking, offers a detailed snapshot of the world's most powerful passports. The Henley Passport Index ranks countries based on the number of destinations their citizens can access without a visa prior to arrival. This ranking is meticulously compiled using data provided by the International Air Transport Authority (IATA), which maintains the world's largest and most comprehensive database of travel information. The methodology behind this index is both comprehensive and nuanced. It considers not only visa-free access, but also a country's diplomatic relations and international agreements. After all, the power of a passport is inextricably linked to a nation's geopolitical standing and the strength of its global connections. Countries with strong international ties and positive diplomatic relations often wield the most powerful passports. These nations have negotiated extensive visa-waivers, allowing their citizens to move freely across borders and explore the world with minimal bureaucratic hurdles. The 2024 Henley Passport Index paints a fascinating picture of global mobility. Singapore,with its strong economic and diplomatic prowess, ranks first with its citizens able to access a staggering 195 countries without a visa. Close behind are South Korea and the United Arab Emirates, which shows the rising influence of Asia on the world stage. Conversely, passports from war-torn or politically unstable regions tend to offer their holders far more limited travel freedom. This stark disparity in global mobility can have a profound impact on individuals, shaping their educational and professional opportunities, as well as their personal experiences. So, here are the top Asian passports that consistently managed to remain at the top Singapore tops the Henley Passport Index, boasting a passport that allows its holders to access 195 countries without a pre-arrival visa. This exceptional travel freedom reflects Singapore's strong global diplomatic relationships and its strategic international agreements. South Korea ranks third, with a passport that offers visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 191 countries. The strength of South Korea's passport underscores the country's robust international connections and its effective diplomacy, facilitating extensive global mobility for its citizens. The United Arab Emirates holds the ninth position, with its passport providing entry to 185 countries without requiring a visa beforehand. This high ranking highlights the UAE's successful foreign relations and its growing influence on the global stage, enhancing travel ease for its residents.

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New airport coming soon in Kota, Rajasthan

In a recent travel development, Kota in Rajasthan is all set to get a new airport that is expected to boost tourism in the city. This initiative, recently done through an agreement between the Airports Authority of India (AAI), the Urban Development Department, and the Civil Aviation Department, promises to boost tourism, education, and business activities across the region. The signing ceremony was attended by Rajasthan’s Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma. The CM emphasised that beyond enhancing tourism, the airport will also boost educational and business endeavors. Notably, the state government has generously offered land at no cost, with the responsibility for construction, development, and operation resting with the AAI. To ensure seamless integration and maximise the airport's potential, the CM has directed the Kota Development Authority to outline a roadmap for the airport's surrounding infrastructure development. The new Kota airport is poised to revolutionise regional connectivity, drastically reducing travel times and facilitating easier access for residents of the Hadoti region. For visitors, the airport promises unparalleled convenience, offering swift access to Kota’s renowned attractions, from historical sites to cultural landmarks. Sanjeev Kumar, Chairman of AAI, highlighted that a detailed project report (DPR) is currently underway, laying the groundwork for forthcoming tenders and subsequent construction phases. This meticulous approach ensures that every facet of the airport’s development is carefully planned and executed to meet the region’s growing needs. The CM also pressed for accelerated progress on enhancing facilities at Jaipur airport, expanding Udaipur airport, and developing a permanent civil enclave at Uttarlai (Barmer) airport. These initiatives collectively aim to bolster intra-state connectivity, facilitating easier exploration of Rajasthan’s diverse offerings, including heritage trails, scenic hill stations, and cultural landmarks. The anticipated benefits of the Kota airport extend beyond tourism, encompassing improved accessibility for students and educators drawn to Kota’s prestigious educational institutions. Additionally, enhanced travel options will stimulate economic activities, fostering new business opportunities and reinforcing Kota’s status as a burgeoning economic center. The upcoming Kota airport represents more than just a new travel hub—it symbolises a gateway to opportunity, connectivity, and growth for Rajasthan.

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UPI One World Wallet launched for international travellers

In a revolutionary step, the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) has introduced the ‘UPI One World’ wallet, aimed at enhancing the digital payment experience for international visitors to India. This innovative service promises to simplify transactions in real-time, empowering tourists to explore India. The ‘UPI One World’ wallet allows the Unified Payments Interface (UPI), renowned for its efficiency and security in digital transactions. Originally introduced during India’s G20 summit last year, the wallet has now been expanded to accommodate visitors from a broader range of countries, promising greater accessibility and convenience. To avail the benefits of the UPI One World service, visitors can follow below mentioned steps: Download Issuer App: Start by downloading the issuer app and completing the sign-in process. Document Verification: Physically verify your passport and valid visa at the issuer counter. Issuance of UPI One World: Obtain the UPI One World wallet linked to your international mobile number. Load INR Value: Load desired amounts in Indian Rupees (INR) using one of the following methods: Exchange foreign currency at the issuer counter with assistance from Forex experts. Use a credit card or debit card to transfer funds. Use the Wallet: Enjoy the convenience of using the preloaded INR at various merchant outlets across India. Encash Remaining Balance: Before departure, easily encash any remaining balance loaded in the wallet. An NPCI spokesperson conveyed excitement about the recent launch, emphasizing, "We are delighted to introduce UPI One World, offering international visitors to India the seamless UPI payment experience. This initiative is designed to elevate visitor satisfaction by providing access to UPI, a favored payment method among Indians. With UPI One World, travelers can effortlessly manage their financial transactions, including loading funds and easily transferring any unused balance back to their original payment source. By integrating foreign travelers into India's real-time payments system, we aim to foster a more interconnected global digital payments ecosystem." Where to Use UPI One World: Travel Bookings Online Shopping Platforms Merchant Stores Grocery Stores Entertainment Venues Hotels and Restaurants Transportation Services By introducing the ‘UPI One World’ wallet, NPCI has not only streamlined the payment process for international visitors but also bolstered India’s position as a technologically advanced destination.

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