News

Japan eases entry for travellers with new preclearance system, faster immigration processing as tourist wave hits record

oreign visitors arriving in Japan may get to breeze through immigration soon as the country looks for new ways to amplify a tourism boom that is boosting its economy. The government will introduce a new preclearance system from next January, starting with tourists from Taiwan, NHK reported Friday. Visitors will be able to complete most of their immigration screening before departure to help shorten the time taken for entry procedures on arrival, according to the broadcaster. The decision comes with record numbers of tourists already visiting the country. Around 17.8 million people visited in the first half, according to the Japan National Tourism Organization. June also marked the fourth straight month with more than 3 million travelers. The slump in the yen has turned Japan from a pricey bucket-list trip to a relatively inexpensive tourism and shopping destination. At a meeting to promote tourism on Friday, Prime Minister Fumio Kishida declared that ¥8 trillion ($51 billion) of spending by foreign visitors is within sight in 2024. “It’s critical to promote the number of visitors to local regions, while preventing and keeping control of overtourism,” Kishida told a ministerial council. The prime minister called for the use of technology to ease congestion at airports, travel networks and popular destinations. He’s also seeking to boost the attractiveness of Japan’s national parks and promote sports tourism, as part of the government’s goal to reach 60 million visitors annually by 2030. Underscoring booming inbound travel demand, ANA Holdings Inc. said it will start three European routes from Haneda this winter starting with Milan in December, Stockholm in January and Istanbul in February. “We will continue to expand our network” All Nippon Airways President Shinichi Inoue said at a news conference Friday. In addition, ANA started daily flights to Paris and Munich in July ahead of the Paris Olympics and plans to restart its Haneda-Vienna route in August. Japan’s airports have been dealing with a jet-fuel shortage that has impacted foreign carriers seeking to increase flights to the country. While efforts are in place to ease the shortage by boosting production and imports, Kishida called on the council to take urgent measure to secure supplies. The influx is providing a boost to Japan’s fragile economy. The currency hit a 38-year low against the dollar earlier this month as the gap in interest rates between Japan and the US continues to keep downward pressure on the currency. While the weakness in the yen is attracting tourists and shoppers to Japan, it is also fueling the strongest inflation cycle in decades, a factor that is dragging on domestic consumer spending. Foreign visitors spent ¥2.14 trillion yen in the April-June quarter, according to figures released by the Japan Tourism Agency on Friday. There has also been a growing backlash among some locals annoyed by the ever-increasing influx. Kyoto’s local district council has banned visitors from the narrow private streets of the Gion district, while local authorities in Fujikawaguchiko erected a barrier to stop tourists from taking photos at a convenience store with Mt. Fuji in the background.

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KTO launches ‘Korea Super 30’ packages with educator Anand Kumar

Korea Tourism Organization (KTO) has entered into a ground-breaking partnership with Anand Kumar, the esteemed educator and founder of the Super 30 program. Renowned for his commitment to education, KTO’s collaboration with the Padma Shree awardee, introduces the ‘Korea Super 30’ edutainment travel packages. Designed to blend cultural exploration with academic enrichment, this initiative offers young learners a transformative experience in South Korea. Kumar has also been named the Honorary Ambassador of Korea Tourism, tasked with promoting South Korea as a premier destination for international travel and education through December 2024. To mark the inaugural batch and to celebrate this collaboration, KTO is hosting an exciting contest. Three winners will embark on an all-expense-paid edutainment journey to South Korea alongside Kumar himself. “Through our collaboration with Mr. Anand Kumar and the launch of ‘Korea Super 30’ edutainment travel packages, we are excited to offer young Indian students a unique opportunity to discover Korea’s rich cultural heritage and academic insights. This initiative reflects KTO’s commitment to fostering educational exchange and cultural understanding. We eagerly anticipate the enthusiastic response from participants for this contest as they explore Korea’s vibrant culture, historic landmarks, and delightful cuisine, creating lasting memories,” said Myong Kil Yun, Regional Director for India & SAARC Countries, KTO. Interested parents can nominate their children by visiting the Visit Korea website and filling out the application form. Eligible participants must be Indian nationals residing in India, aged 14-18, and students up to class 12 with a valid passport. The last date to apply is 28th July 2024, 1800 hrs IST. Winners of the contest will be announced on 2nd August 2024. For any questions or further information, interested applicants can email at india@knto.or.kr. KTO India has partnered with PickYourTrail, a renowned online travel agency, to promote and sell the Korea Super 30 travel packages. The packages, running with fixed departures until December 2024, will accommodate 30 students per batch, ensuring a comprehensive, budget-friendly, and well-organized travel experience.

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Shervani Pebbles & Pines Corbett joins the Shervani Hotels collection

Shervani Hotels presents Shervani Pebbles & Pines Corbett, a distinctive 48-room boutique hotel offering a unique blend of comfort and adventure. Nestled in the heart of Jim Corbett National Park, this hotel is a haven for nature lovers and adventurers, providing a captivating escape into the wilderness. Guests at Shervani Pebbles & Pines Corbett can immerse themselves in the sights and sounds of the wild, promising unforgettable encounters with nature. Whether seeking thrilling wildlife safaris, tranquil moments by the river, or a peaceful retreat from urban life, the boutique hotel offers a fusion of luxury and untamed wilderness. The hotel features 48 smartly furnished rooms and suites, including 24 Deluxe Rooms, 16 Premium Rooms, and 8 Superior Rooms with jacuzzis for added indulgence. Each accommodation is designed for utmost comfort and convenience, equipped with state-of-the-art amenities to ensure a relaxing and rejuvenating stay. “Shervani Pebbles & Pines Corbett is more than just a boutique hotel; it’s a gateway to experiencing the true essence of the wild. Its exceptional service, lavish accommodations, thrilling wildlife safaris, and numerous activities make it the perfect destination to indulge in opulent comfort and adventure,” said Ahsan Shervani, Vice President. Culinary delights await at the hotel’s inviting 24×7 multi-cuisine restaurant, offering an eclectic all-day dining menu featuring Kumaoni, Indian, Continental, and Pan-Asian cuisine. Guests can enjoy a wholesome breakfast buffet, lunch, and dinner daily, with a wide range of popular Indian, South Indian, Asian, and Western dishes. The indoor dining area accommodates up to 80 guests, while the outdoor space serves 24 guests. The hotel’s dedicated safari desk provides a rare opportunity to witness the majestic royal tiger in its natural habitat. Guided by experienced experts, guests can venture deep into the jungle, where these stunning creatures roam freely. The safari desk ensures a safe and seamless experience, with knowledgeable guides and well-maintained vehicles, offering the best prospects to witness nature’s grace at its finest. Additionally, Shervani Pebbles & Pines Corbett offers entertaining activities such as guided nature walks with a naturalist at 7 AM, lawn-side and river meals, live music, and more. Conveniently located 85 km from Pantnagar Airport, 62 km from Kathgodam Railway Station, and 267 km from New Delhi, Shervani Pebbles & Pines Corbett is an ideal destination for those seeking an extraordinary blend of luxury and adventure in the heart of the wild.

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Atlys reports 60% rise in Indian visa applications for Paris Olympics

With excitement building for the upcoming Summer Olympic Games in Paris, Atlys, India’s leading online visa platform, has reported a staggering 60% surge in visa applications for France. This unprecedented spike underscores the heightened interest and enthusiasm among Indian travellers eager to be part of this global event. Notably, while travellers from major cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Bangalore dominate the applicant pool, Atlys has also seen a significant increase in applications from smaller towns and rural areas. In response to this surge, French consulates in India have ramped up their processing capabilities. Olympic visitors are now receiving their visa decisions in under a week on average, a substantial improvement over usual processing times. This expedited service ensures a smoother and more efficient experience for travellers, allowing them to focus on their Olympic journey rather than visa hurdles. Paris remains a top destination, with nearly a 40% increase in active travel listings on Atlys, ensuring ample availability for visitors drawn to the city’s iconic landmarks and Olympic venues. Beyond Paris, travellers are exploring vibrant locations such as Nice, Aubervilliers, Colombes, and Saint-Ouen-sur-Seine, all of which host key Olympic events. Lesser-known areas like Châteauroux for shooting events and Colombes for field hockey are also seeing a rise in bookings, offering visitors a diverse and enriching French experience. The rise in group travel bookings, with families and friends planning their Olympic trips together, is notable, with Atlys witnessing a 45% increase in group visa applications. Additionally, a notable 50% increase in sports tourism-related queries has been observed, with travellers not only seeking to attend Olympic events but also expressing interest in visiting iconic French sports venues like Stade de France and Roland Garros. This surge highlights a growing trend among Indian travellers who are keen to combine their love for sports with their travel plans. Atlys has leveraged advanced AI and machine learning technologies to streamline the visa application process, offering real-time tracking, step-by-step guidance, and personalised assistance, ensuring even first-time applicants can navigate the complexities of visa procedures with ease.

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Antara River Cruises unveils short getaways in Odisha

Come August, with a series of long weekends, it’s the perfect time for a short break with family or a group of friends! Antara River Cruises has recently launched two cabin catamarans in Bhitarkanika National Park, Odisha, offering an offbeat two- or three-night vacation traversing the estuarine region of the Brahmani-Baitarani River systems. These sustainably built vessels, MV Mahanadi and MV Bhitarkanika, are designed to explore the 672 sq km Bhitarkanika mangrove wetland. Starting August 1, 2024, the MV Mahanadi and MV Bhitarkanika will offer a 2-night/3-day itinerary, “Amazon of the East,” sailing every Thursday and Saturday, and a 3-night/4-day itinerary, “Cruising in Bhitarkanika,” every Monday. Departing from Gupti, just over a three-hour drive from Bhubaneswar airport, the cruise takes you through Dangamal, exploring Bhitarkanika before returning to Gupti. Priced at INR 29,500 per person per night on twin sharing/double occupancy (plus 5% GST), this extraordinary expedition navigates through India’s second-largest mangrove after Sundarbans in the Bay of Bengal, unveiling the hidden treasures of this enchanting region. Antara’s expert guides lead immersive excursions, whether bird watching, nature walks, or exploring hidden villages, promising discovery and awe-inspiring encounters with the natural wonders of Odisha. The catamarans, 17 meters long and 6 meters wide, travel at 5 knots per hour, blending comfort and elegance. Each features two identical cabins with private bathrooms, common lounge and dining areas, and an airy sundeck. Guests can indulge in local and international cuisines, enjoying meals with a view of the serene landscapes and vibrant mangrove ecosystems. Sustainability is a core principle on board the Antara catamarans, which present India’s first hybrid solar electric and fuel-powered cruise. They avoid single-use plastics, use bio-chemical toilets and water purifying plants, source ingredients from local markets, follow strict animal welfare guidelines, and encourage local Odia artisans and crafts for décor and retail. Bhitarkanika National Park, with its labyrinth of creeks, mangroves, and diverse wildlife, offers a rich and diverse ecosystem, supporting saltwater crocodiles, Indian pythons, king cobras, a plethora of avian species, spotted deer, and wild boars. Antara’s commitment to sustainability and luxury provides a unique way to explore these natural wonders.

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Air India launches new Gift Cards

Air India has launched Air India Gift Cards, offering travelers a convenient and flexible way to gift the joy of travel. These e-cards can be purchased online in denominations ranging from INR 1,000 to INR 200,000, either as gifts for loved ones or for personal future use. The gift cards can be used to book domestic and international flights and to purchase ancillary services such as extra baggage and seat selection on Air India’s website and mobile app. This flexibility allows recipients to customise their trips by choosing their preferred destination, travel dates, cabin class, and extras, making these gift cards an ideal present for any occasion. Available for purchase on giftcards.airindia.com, Air India Gift Cards come in four themes—Travel, Wedding Anniversary, Birthday, and Special Moments—and can be easily personalised. Key features include convenient delivery options, allowing immediate use or scheduled delivery within 60 days of purchase, and transferability, enabling recipients to book flights for themselves or others. Additionally, travellers can combine up to three gift cards in a single transaction and use them alongside a credit card to cover any remaining balance. Air India Gift Cards can be utilised for a single trip or spread across multiple bookings, offering unmatched flexibility. This new offering from Air India provides a seamless and thoughtful way to give the gift of travel, catering to a variety of travel needs and preferences.

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