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Royal Air Maroc adds two European routes

Moroccan carrier Royal Air Maroc is to restore routes to two European cities this summer from its Casablanca hub. The Oneworld member will operate twice-weekly flights between Naples and Casablanca from 22 June with services on Monday and Saturday. Royal Air Maroc’s second new European route will fly between Manchester and Casablanca. Flights will run three times per week on Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday starting from 23 June. The airline is also to start regional flights between Casablanca and Abuja, the capital of Nigeria, on 23 June with three flights per week. Zoubida Smahi, UK general manager at Royal Air Maroc, said: “Casablanca has reaffirmed its role as a commercial hub and a strategic gateway to sub-Saharan Africa. “As the leading company in West Africa, the Moroccan national carrier aims at placing the African continent at the forefront of global connectivity with a focus on facilitating business travel, family visits and tourism.” Royal Air Maroc became the first African airline to join the Oneworld alliance in 2020 when it also started codeshare flights with British Airways.

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India, Vietnam in talks to expand bilaterals

As Vietnam gains popularity among Indian travellers, the governments of India and Vietnam are in active discussions to increase the number of flights under the bilateral air service agreement for the metro cities. “May be this year or next year, India and Vietnam may increase the bilateral flying rights between the two countries. Both governments are discussing it. The first step is to increase slots and open skies will take time,” Nguyen Trung Hieu, General Manager, Vietnam Airlines, told Mint. The current bilateral air service agreement between India and Vietnam permit 28 weekly departures from metro cities. Vietnam Airlines and low-cost airline VietJet have already exhausted their share by operating 14 weekly departures each. While the connectivity from metro cities will depend on increase in bilateral flying rights, Vietnam Airlines is studying the pool of non-metro cities with international status such as Pune, Ahmedabad, Amritsar and Lucknow to connect Tier-II cities in India to Vietnam, an official said. Vietnam Airlines launched direct flights between the two countries in June 2022 with non-stop flights between New Delhi and Ho Chi Minh City. “Now we have three airlines between Vietnam and India. India is a huge market and demand is enough for all airlines. We are looking at other cities in Vietnam as well such as Da Nang, which is a vibrant city and many tourists from India want to see,” Hieu said. “India is the most important market for our airline. We are investing our resources into Indian market and offer a range of options for connectivity in domestic and beyond to South Asia, Europe, US, South Korea,” Hieu said.

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Maharashtra set to become first state to purchase INR 8.16 crore land in Kashmir to build tourist bhawan

Maharashtra is set to make history! Reportedly, Maharashtra is all set to become the first state in India to purchase land in Kashmir to construct a tourist bhawan catering to its residents. According to The Indian Express, the upcoming Maharashtra Bhawan will be set in the heart of Budgam in central Kashmir. It will also mark the first state bhawan in the valley. As per reports, the facility will occupy 2.5 acres of land in Ichgam, close to the Srinagar airport. The Jammu and Kashmir government has granted permission for the land transfer to the Maharashtra government at a cost of INR 8.16 crore. This process of acquiring land was set in motion subsequent to a visit by Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde to the union territory in June of the preceding year, where he held discussions with Governor Manoj Sinha. Before the revocation of Article 370, land acquisition in the former state was restricted solely to permanent residents of Jammu and Kashmir. But, the government had the authority to lease land for durations of up to 99 years to external industries and individuals. Maharashtra's Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar shared plans for the construction of two Maharashtra Bhawans in Srinagar and Ayodhya in a recent budget speech. These bhawans aim at enhancing amenities for tourists and pilgrims. The state government has given INR 77 crore for the development of these bhawans. A Revenue department note states, “Sanction is accorded to the transfer of Shamlat Deh land measuring 20 kanal situated at estate Ichgam Budgam in favour of Maharashtra state… on payment of transfer value of Rs 8.16 crore, which is Rs 40.8 lakh per kanal, for construction of Maharshtra Bhawan.” Meanwhile, various regions in Kashmir experienced fresh snowfall, with Gulmarg, Pahalgam, and Sonamarg's tourist resorts receiving substantial snow overnight. Additionally, Gurez and other elevated regions in Bandipora, Ganderbal, and Anantnag districts also encountered fresh snowfall.

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Exploring Char Dham – here’s the correct way to navigate the sacred trail

The Char Dham Yatra, a pilgrimage circuit in the Indian Himalayas, is a spiritual journey of immense significance for Hindus. Comprising four holy sites—Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath—the Char Dham holds deep religious and cultural importance. Traditionally, it is advised to undertake the Char Dham Yatra in a clockwise direction. Consequently, the pilgrimage commences at Yamunotri, progresses towards Gangotri, continues to Kedarnath, and culminates at Badrinath. The opening dates for the Char Dham pilgrimage sites in 2024 are as follows: - Yamunotri: May 10 - Gangotri: May 10 - Kedarnath: May 10 - Badrinath: May 12 These dates mark the commencement of the pilgrimage season, allowing devotees to embark on their sacred journey to these revered sites. Undertaking this pilgrimage is believed to cleanse one's soul and lead to spiritual enlightenment. However, planning the sequence of visiting these revered sites is crucial to ensure a smooth and fulfilling experience. Yamunotri: Begin your journey at Yamunotri, the source of the sacred Yamuna River. Located in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand, this serene spot is accessible via trekking or pony rides from the town of Hanuman Chatti. Pilgrims typically offer prayers at the Yamunotri temple dedicated to Goddess Yamuna before proceeding further. Gangotri: After paying homage at Yamunotri, proceed to Gangotri, the origin of the holy Ganges River. Situated in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand, Gangotri is reachable by road from Yamunotri. The Gangotri temple, dedicated to Goddess Ganga, is a significant site for worship and reflection. Devotees often take a holy dip in the icy waters of the Bhagirathi River, believed to wash away sins. Kedarnath: Next, embark on the journey to Kedarnath, one of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva. Located in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand, Kedarnath is accessible via a trek from Gaurikund or by helicopter services. The Kedarnath temple, nestled amidst the majestic Himalayas, exudes an aura of spirituality and devotion. Pilgrims offer prayers at this sacred site, seeking blessings for inner peace and divine grace. Badrinath: Concluding the pilgrimage, head towards Badrinath, the abode of Lord Vishnu. Situated in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, Badrinath is reachable by road from Kedarnath. The Badrinath temple, nestled amidst snow-capped peaks and lush valleys, is a sight to behold. Devotees pay homage to Lord Badrinath, seeking blessings for spiritual upliftment and salvation.

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Destination Management Services to Experience Robust Growth, Projected at $6.9 Billion by 2032

The market in 2022 for destination management services was valued at $3.6 billion. By 2032, it is expected to reach $6.9 billion. Destination management services comprise a variability of professional services provided by DMOs or DMCs to improve the travel experience. Furthermore, as a result of development in responsiveness in terms of environmental & social problems, sustainability and responsible tourism have turned out to be the trends for destination management service market. Travelers progressively give importance to destinations and destination management service providers that hold eco-friendly practices, promote sustainable tourism efforts, help local communities, increase the market size for destination management. Service companies related to destination management are integrating sustainability into their offerings, like community-based excursions, eco-tours and collaborations with local conservation projects. DMOs/DMCs provide custom-made experiences, manage logistics, encourage the destination, and offer help & information to guarantee a seamless & unforgettable visit. By using their knowhow & local contacts, the providers of destination management service struggle to improve the tourist experience and leave an optimistic impression travelers improve the destination management service market share. The travel sector is now being modified by DMOs and technology to adapt to this alteration and stay viable.

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Pokhara officially Nepal's tourism capital now; to remain accessible 24 hours

According to reports, the Nepalese government has recently declared Pokhara, situated in the picturesque Gandaki province, as the primary tourism capital of the Himalayan nation. This official proclamation occurred during a special event held at Barahi Ghat, located on the serene banks of the stunning Phewa Lake. Although Pokhara has been well-known as a significant tourism destination for a considerable time, it has only recently been officially acknowledged as the tourism capital after meeting necessary criteria. This designation represents a noteworthy achievement in Pokhara's evolution, affirming its status as a premier center for tourism endeavors. According to Pokhara Mayor Dhanaraj Acharya, the declaration holds profound implications for Pokhara's global recognition. This recognition not only acknowledges Pokhara's existing appeal but also sets the stage for further development and promotion of its unique offerings to travellers worldwide. Chief Minister Surendra Raj Pandey of Gandaki Province outlined that various establishments including bars, restaurants, spas, grocery stores, and snack shops situated in key areas like Lakeside, Prithvi Chowk, Mahendrapul, and Chipledhunga within Pokhara will be permitted to continue their operations until 1 a.m. This allowance comes with the condition that they adhere to prescribed standards.

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