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445 ancient tombs, dating back 2000-year-old, discovered in China

In a remarkable archaeological revelation, local authorities in north China's Shanxi Province have unveiled a staggering total of 445 tombs, dating back to more than 2,000 years. This significant discovery offers a rare and invaluable glimpse into the funeral and cultural practices of the ancient era, as per the reports. If reports are to go by, these ancient burial sites, originating from the Warring States Period (475-221 B.C.), were stumbled upon approximately 500 m north of Xue Zhuang Village in Linfen City. The excavation work, spearheaded by the Shanxi Provincial Institute of Archaeology, has been ongoing for more than a year. According to Duan Shuanglong, a seasoned researcher at the institute, the unearthed tombs vary in size, ranging from small to medium. More than 700 artefacts have been meticulously unearthed, including bronze ware, iron utensils, pottery, jade, and bone articles. Duan stresses the importance of these findings, asserting that they offer invaluable insights into the cultural evolution from the Warring States Period to the subsequent Qin Dynasty (221-207 BC). The uncovered tombs and their accompanying artefacts provide a rare opportunity to delve into the funerary customs and beliefs of ancient Chinese societies that thrived in the region over two millennia ago. Archaeologists are poised to meticulously study the layout, construction, and contents of these tombs, aiming to decipher the intricate rituals and social hierarchies that governed burial practices during that epoch. Moreover, the diverse assortment of artefacts recovered from the tombs holds the promise of shedding light on various facets of daily life, such as craftsmanship, trade, and technological advancements of the time. Through detailed analyses of these relics, researchers anticipate unearthing invaluable insights into the cultural, economic, and social dynamics that shaped the region during the Warring States Period. The Shanxi Provincial Institute of Archaeology has undertaken extensive measures to ensure the proper preservation and documentation of the excavated tombs and artefacts. Utilising rigorous scientific techniques and meticulous record-keeping, efforts are underway to safeguard this priceless archaeological treasure for the benefit of future generations. The discovery of these 445 ancient tombs in Shanxi Province marks a significant milestone in the field of archaeology, offering a rare window into the past and enriching our understanding of the ancient civilizations that once thrived in this region.

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Kashmir tourist footfall likely to surpass all records!

As per the latest development, the influx of tourists in Kashmir is poised to surpass all previous records. If reports are to go by, more than 1.25 million visitors have already arrived as of now. Local tourism officials have indicated that Kashmir has seen over 12.5 lakh tourists thus far, suggesting that 2024 is likely to witness unprecedented levels of tourism. Further reports add that at present, all local hotels in Srinagar city, the ski resort of Gulmarg, and the hill stations of Pahalgam and Sonamarg are fully booked until mid-June. This trend extends to guest houses, homestays, houseboats on the Dal and Nigeen Lakes, and other lodging facilities across Kashmir. A notable development this year is the increasing number of foreign tourists, attributed to the improved law and order situation and prevailing peace in the region, as per the reports. The influx of foreign tourists is significant as it contributes to foreign exchange earnings, especially considering their propensity for higher spending compared to domestic tourists. Despite the impending Amarnath Yatra, which typically leads to a decline in tourist arrivals due to the pilgrimage rush, hoteliers remain optimistic about sustained tourism levels. This optimism is bolstered by the substantial number of bookings already made. The soaring temperatures in other parts of the country have further fueled tourist arrivals in Kashmir, as it remains unparalleled in its allure compared to other hill stations like Shimla, Darjeeling, and Nainital. Currently, tourists predominantly hail from Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, and Maharashtra, with expectations of an increase in visitors from Delhi and Punjab starting in the middle of the next month. The tourism industry stands as the second-largest sector in Kashmir after horticulture, contributing significantly to the local economy. While horticulture generates an estimated Rs 10,000 crore annually, tourism injects approximately INR 8,000 crore into the local economy. This economic impact extends beyond orchard owners to sustain various stakeholders, including hoteliers, houseboat owners, tour guides, and artisans involved in handicrafts.

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Marriott Opens Luxury Collection Resort in Labuan Bajo, Indonesia

Marriott has expanded its portfolio of Luxury Collection resorts in Indonesia with the opening of a waterfront property in Labuan Bajo on the island of Flores in East Nusa Tenggara province. The Ta’aktana, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa is located a 10-minute drive from Komodo International Airport (LBJ) and is within walking distance from an array of cultural attractions such as Mirror Stone Cave, Rumah Tenun, Melo Village and more. "Ta’aktana, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Labuan Bajo, marks a significant landmark as not only the first property in East Nusa Tenggara for The Luxury Collection brand, but also the first for the Marriott International portfolio at large,” said Philipp Weghmann, Vice President and Global Brand Leader, The Luxury Collection. “As we continue our global foray into the resort category, Ta’aktana, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Labuan Bajo is a natural and stunning fit. The Luxury Collection provides today’s global travelers with rare experiences that are deeply reflective of the destination, and through that lens we invite guests to discover the beauty and vibrant history of Labuan Bajo.” Spread across 16 hectares and designed by ANP Interiors, Ta’aktana features a total of 70 guest rooms including 45 suites and 25 villas with 24-hour butler service. “We are proud to introduce Ta’aktana, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Labuan Bajo as the latest addition to our portfolio,” said Ramesh Jackson, Area Vice President at Marriott International, Indonesia & Malaysia. “This marks a noteworthy milestone for Marriott International as we extend our presence into the captivating landscapes of Labuan Bajo. We invite travelers to explore and connect with the soul of Flores island, where luxury seamlessly intertwines with the rich cultural treasures of this captivating destination.” The word Ta’aktana, meaning green land, is derived from the Manggarai language of Flores island and is an ode to Lingko Field, distinctive web shaped rice fields that serve as a cherished part of traditional Manggarai culture. Facilities at the resort include three restaurants, a lounge, bar, fitness center, a spa with six private treatment rooms, steam room, plunge pool, a choice of meeting and event spaces, and an oceanfront chapel. “It is an honor to welcome guests to our haven in Labuan Bajo,” says Peter-Paul Kleiss, Resort Manager of Ta’aktana, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Labuan Bajo. “Our resort is not just a destination; it's a journey into the heart of Labuan Bajo’s heritage and breathtaking landscapes. The property is a testament to our commitment to providing a unique and authentic guest experience, where luxury meets tradition. I am excited to lead our dedicated team in ensuring that every guest discovers the magic of Ta’aktana, delivering unparalleled experiences in this extraordinary corner of Indonesia.”

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India contributes a market share of 11% to Sharjah’s tourism: Khalid Jasim Al Midfa, SCTDA

The emirate welcomed over 1.5 million hotel guests, marking an 11% increase. Aiming to double hotel guests and boost GDP contribution to AED 450 billion by 2031. As the UAE get enlarged in its tourism vigour, the emirates also are individually witnessing significant surge in tourism, fueled by robust strategic initiatives and impressive investments in the sector. To understand how Sharjah is spreading out its wings, T3 reaches out to Khalid Jasim Al Midfa, Chairman, Sharjah Commerce & Tourism Development Authority (SCTDA). Midfa mentions that in 2022, according to the UN World Tourism Organisation, UAE ranked 4th in international tourist spending, with Sharjah experiencing remarkable growth. In 2023, the emirate welcomed over 1.5 million hotel guests, marking an 11% increase. This growth aligns with the UAE Tourism Strategy 2031, aiming to double hotel guests and boost GDP contribution to AED 450 billion by 2031. India as a source market, infrastructure development India plays a crucial role in Sharjah’s tourism, with a market share of 11%. Travelers from India seek premium experiences in Sharjah, drawn to its diverse attractions. From bustling metropolises like Mumbai and Delhi to vibrant hubs like Bangalore and Chennai, Indian tourists contribute significantly to Sharjah’s tourism narrative. Sharjah’s ability to offer premium experiences at accessible prices makes it a destination of choice for savvy travelers, further driving tourism growth in the region. As Sharjah continues to evolve as a global tourism hotspot, its partnership with key markets like India underscores its enduring appeal and commitment to offering unparalleled experiences. In Sharjah, a $272 million investment in the Kalba Road expansion and traffic improvements underscores a commitment to intra-emirate connectivity and congestion alleviation. Notably, Kalba, a picturesque east coast town, is undergoing a revitalisation spearheaded by His Highness, encompassing historic site restoration and modern infrastructure development. This multifaceted approach aims to position Kalba as a prominent tourist destination while enriching the lives of residents. Preserving heritage is paramount for Sharjah, that is demonstrated by the meticulous restoration of cultural sites like Mleiha and the Heart of Sharjah district. Moreover, with initiatives such as the $336 million expansion of Sharjah International Airport, the UAE underscores its commitment to technological advancement, ensuring seamless travel experiences for tourists. Implementation of the unified tourist visa system shaping inter-regional travel dynamics in The GCC? Will Sharjah benefit from the same? The implementation of a unified tourist visa system within the GCC is poised to revolutionise inter-regional travel dynamics, fostering seamless exploration of the diverse cultural and historical treasures across member states. By simplifying bureaucratic hurdles and harmonising visa processes, this initiative will effectively open the doors to enriching experiences for travelers within the region. For Sharjah, this development holds immense strategic significance. As a cultural hub renowned for its rich heritage and vibrant attractions, it stands to benefit substantially from increased accessibility facilitated by the unified visa system. Streamlined visa procedures will not only attract a greater influx of tourists eager to delve into the emirate’s rich offerings, but also position Sharjah as a pivotal stop for travellers venturing through the GCC region. Moreover, the enhanced regional connectivity will present the emirate as an enticing gateway to explore neighbouring GCC destinations. Sharjah’s perspective on ‘Competing collaboratively’ within the GCC region Creating an ecosystem that champions “competing collaboratively” is paramount for fostering mutual growth and innovation within the GCC region. Embracing collaboration is ingrained in Sharjah’s DNA, evident in its active participation in regional and international events alongside diverse government and private entities. From joint tourism campaigns to cultural exchanges and cross-promotional events, Sharjah leverages collaborative marketing and promotional strategies to enhance the tourism sector’s overall vitality. By doing so, Sharjah not only fortifies its own position as a premier tourism destination but also contributes significantly to the collective success and reputation of the region. Tackling perceptions of having limited access to leisure, entertainment, & nightlife In the GCC’s evolving landscape, a profound transformation is reshaping perceptions of leisure. While countries in the region, including UAE and Sharjah, maintain our historical emphasis on cultural authenticity, we are designing strategic initiatives that are propelling a new era of tourism. Sharjah, renowned for its rich history and culture, is at the forefront of this movement. This evolution mirrors a broader trend across the GCC, with governments investing in diversifying tourism offerings and engaging with a youthful demographic. The future of tourism in the GCC hinges on striking a balance between cultural preservation and contemporary leisure amenities. By blending authentic experiences with modern conveniences, destinations like Sharjah are challenging preconceived notions and captivating a discerning global audience. As the GCC ascends as a premier tourist destination, bridging the perceived gap in leisure and entertainment offerings, the narrative is undergoing a paradigm shift, redefining leisure tourism on the global stage.

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Malaysia Airlines to Operate 71 Weekly Flights in India with New Daily Service to Amritsar

In light of strong travel demand and solid load factor performance on the Amritsar-Kuala Lumpur route, Malaysia Airlines will increase its service frequency from four to seven times weekly starting August 1, 2024. The airline had previously raised its service frequency from two to four weekly flights to Amritsar in January 2024, reflecting the growing market confidence. This increase in frequency will bring the total number of Malaysia Airlines’ weekly flights in India to 71. Amritsar, which was introduced as a new route in November 2023 along with Ahmedabad and Trivandrum, is part of the airline’s strategic expansion in India. The frequency on the Trivandrum route was also recently increased to four times weekly starting April 3, 2024. Malaysia Airlines has an expansive network in India, operating flights from nine major cities including New Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai, Hyderabad, Kochi, Ahmedabad, Amritsar, and Trivandrum. As a key gateway for Indian travelers to Asia and beyond, the airline provides smooth connections to destinations like Australia, New Zealand, Vietnam, and other significant locations in the Asia Pacific region. Commenting on this development, Dersenish Aresandiran, Chief Commercial Officer of Airlines from Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG), said “India remains a cornerstone of our business strategy. We are delighted to strengthen our operations in this dynamic market by further boosting flight frequencies from Amritsar. Operating 71 weekly flights between India and Malaysia, we remain steadfast towards offering enhanced flexibility and travel options to Indian travellers, serving as the gateway to Asia and beyond. With our extensive network, comfortable transit options, and delivery of our inimitable Malaysian Hospitality, we are confident about capturing the escalating travel demand from India.” To mark the expansion of flight frequencies, Malaysia Airlines is offering special promotional fares, encouraging Indian travelers to discover Malaysia. Promotional round-trip fares from Amritsar to Kuala Lumpur start at INR 15,099 and are available for purchase until June 7, 2024, for travel until March 31, 2025.

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Widespread rain expected in Kerala for 7 days, night travel ban in Idukki

Intense downpour accompanied by gusty winds on Tuesday wreaked havoc in central and south Kerala, as landslides, widespread water-logging and the destruction of houses forced several people to shift to relief camps. Tourist centres have been closed in many districts, including Kottayam and Thiruvananthapuram and a night travel ban has been imposed in the hilly areas of Idukki district. The landslide caused widespread destruction in the Chokkallu area of Bharananganam village in Kottayam. In Ernakulam district, particularly Kochi city, extremely heavy rainfall lasted for hours, submerging roads in many areas. Experts said cloudbursts could be the reason for the heavier-than-usual rainfall that pounded various parts of the port city of Kochi, especially the Kalamassery locality, where flood water entered hundreds of houses. Both Kottayam and Ernakulam districts were placed on red alert by the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) on Tuesday. With the weather agency predicting heavy rainfall in the coming hours, the district administration banned tourists from entering famed holiday destinations like Illikkal Kallu, Ilaveezhapoonchira, Marmala stream in Kottayam and Ponmudi eco-tourism centre in Thiruvananthapuram. As the water level in the Meenachil River in Kottayam and Killiyar in Thiruvananthapuram steadily rose, authorities urged local people living on its banks to pay extra vigil and shift to safer places if necessary. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, in a Facebook post, warned that the extremely heavy rainfall is likely to trigger dangers such as landslides, mudslides, flooding, and so on. He said that the chances of waterlogging and inundation are high in low-lying areas and along riverbanks. The CM also advised people to avoid unnecessary travel and urged them to remain in safer places. Officials said shutters of dams like Aruvikkara and Malankara dams were raised at particular intervals. Several families were shifted to relief camps, especially in rural and coastal areas in various districts, they said. South and central districts like Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Kottayam, and Ernakulam mainly bore the brunt of the continuous downpour, which caused waterlogging, damage to houses, trees to be uprooted, and tiny water bodies to overflow, cutting across towns and villages. Earlier in the day, many narrow lanes and busy roads in Kochi city and adjacent areas were submerged due to continuous downpours. People could not venture out of their homes in many areas of the port city as roads were flooded. Vehicles were seen moving at snail's pace on highways following the rain. Normal life was hit in the Kakkanad-Infopark, one of the IT hubs of the state, and Aluva-Edappally areas due to waterlogging. An uprooted tree fell on a state-run KSRTC bus at Thoppumpady in Kochi. Luckily, passengers escaped unhurt. Intense rains caused mudslides and disrupted traffic on Erattupetta and Vagamon roads in Kottayam district. The city and rural areas of the capital district of Thiruvananthapuram have witnessed heavy rains since Monday night. In nearby Neyyattinkara, a house was severely damaged after an uprooted tree fell on it during heavy rains accompanied by winds. Nedumangad, Neyyattinkara, Kattakkada, and Amboori areas, located in the high ranges of the district, received widespread rainfall. According to the local residents, a portion of a hill behind the famous Bali mandapam at Papanasam in nearby Varkala caved in because of heavy rains. High tides and rough seas were witnessed in coastal areas, posing a threat to fishing vessels. Two incidents of boat capsizing were also reported off the coasts of Muthalapozhi fishing hamlet, located about 30 kilometres away from here. In one incident, a fisherman died after his boat overturned due to high tidal waves this morning. Three others, who also fell into the sea, were rescued and rushed to a nearby hospital, police said. State Revenue Minister K Rajan said the central Kerala region witnessed heavier rainfall, and the Palluruthy region in Ernakulam district alone received 95 mm of rainfall in one-and-a-half hours, which has been rare in recent times. Kalamassery received 57 mm of rainfall in one-and-a-half hours, he pointed out. Rajan said steps have been taken to open 3,597 relief camps in the state, in view of the situation arising out of the rains. Preparations are underway to set up camps that can accommodate over five lakh people during emergencies, he said. An orange alert was sounded in Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, and Idukki, while Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Thrissur, Palakkad, Malappuram, and Kozhikode were placed under a yellow alert, as per the latest IMD update. A red alert indicates heavy to extremely heavy rain of over 20 cm in 24 hours, while an orange alert means very heavy rain of 11 cm to 20 cm, and a yellow alert means heavy rainfall between 6 cm and 11 cm.

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