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UAE residents want to spend more to travel as demand increases for luxury, eco-friendly tourism

As travel rates soar, there is an observed increase in the demand for elevated travel experiences but is this common to only certain kinds of travellers? Travel experts believe that now more than ever, travellers are opting for elevated experiences. The demand for travel, including the UAE, is growing at an unprecedented rate for both business and leisure travel. As passengers increasingly take to the skies, preferences for elevated experiences are on the rise including the indulgence in upgrades to business and first class. But are there a certain demographic that prefer these heightened experiences over others? Some travel experts believe so. One in 10 consumers has stayed in luxury eco-friendly accommodation during the past three years, the whitepaper found. This trend is especially prevalent among high-income travelers, whose sustainable luxury hotel stays have increased by 50 percent during the same period. The United Arab Emirates topped global rankings in terms of the value placed on exploring, with 58 percent of respondents reporting that travel has become more important to them since the Covid-19 pandemic. In terms of luxury travel priorities, a quarter of those living in the country are looking for great entertainment, whereas 19 percent place the biggest emphasis on premium-quality accommodation when booking trips.

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ITB Berlin 2024: Travel Market Set for Growth Again, Say Experts

In 2023, the travel market not only recovered from its slump during the crisis of the Covid pandemic, it even surpassed 2019 levels, according to experts at ITB Berlin 2024. Speaking during the opening press conference on Monday, experts appeared upbeat about the travel industry’s future According to the tourism market research company Phocuswright, at close to two trillion dollars, turnover last year had returned to pre-pandemic levels. “Now we can really say the pandemic is over,” said Phocuswright Senior Vice President Charuta Fadnis during the opening press conference. According to the company’s data, regions were recovering at different speeds. In 2019 North America, Europe/the Middle East and Asia were more or less equal, each accounting for one-third of bookings. In 2022 North America surged ahead with 40 per cent, while Asia trailed significantly, even lagging behind Europe. Fadnis highlighted that many challenges remain. Inflation was weaker, but global flashpoints bore new risks. To that could be added the biggest challenge: climate change, which, according to Fadnis, is the industry’s responsibility to take action. “Individual travellers did not see it as their task to actively participate in every sustainability initiative,” she said. On his part, German Travel Association (DRV) president Norbert Fiebig called for policymakers to financially support the industry’s eco-friendly transformation. Fiebig also described climate action and sustainability as tomorrow’s most important tasks. The biggest challenge for the tourism industry was the fact that mobility without adequate means, i.e. air travel, was “unthinkable”. He called upon the federal government to rethink its recent decision to stop funding research on sustainable aviation fuels (SAFs).

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PM Modi in West Bengal: Prime Minister Narendra Modi Travels with School Students in India’s First Underwater Metro Train in Kolkata, Interacts with Students

In addition to the Howrah Maidan-Esplanade section, PM Modi will also inaugurated the metro railway services from Kavi Subhash Metro, Majerhat Metro, Kochi Metro, Agra Metro, Meerut-RRTS section, Pune Metro, Esplanade Metro- Kolkata, further expanding Kolkata’s metro network. Prime Minister Narendra Mod inaugurated a metro train service between Howrah Maidan and Esplanade in Kolkata, marking the opening of India’s first under-river tunnel. The 4.8-km tunnel between Howrah Maidan and Esplanade includes a 1.2-km section, positioned 30 meters below the Hooghly River, establishing it as the country’s first transportation tunnel beneath a significant river. The PM was seen boarding the metro with students and was even spotted interacting with them. The Central Railways has said that the passenger services will commence at a later date. The Prime Minister, upon reaching the metro station was greeted by an enthusiastic crowd at. Expansion of Kolkata’s Metro Network In addition to the Howrah Maidan-Esplanade section, PM Modi will also inaugurated the metro railway services from Kavi Subhash Metro, Majerhat Metro, Kochi Metro, Agra Metro, Meerut-RRTS section, Pune Metro, Esplanade Metro- Kolkata, further expanding Kolkata’s metro network. East-West Metro Corridor Project The tunnel forms part of the East-West Metro Corridor project, stretching from Sector V to Sealdah, with future expansion planned to Howrah Maidan, spanning a total of 16.6 km, of which 10.8 km is underground. Identified in Kolkata’s master plan in 1971, the project received approval in July 2008, drawing inspiration from Kolkata’s pioneering metro and the success of Delhi’s metro network. Cost and Significance of the Project The 4.8-km East-West Metro stretch, costing Rs 4,138 crore, aims to alleviate traffic congestion, enhance air quality, and improve mass transit accessibility. Kausik Mitra, Chief Public Relation Officer of Metro Railways, told PTI that there are significant benefits for commuters from distant areas such as Hooghly, Midnapore, and Howrah, as well as neighboring states. The metro’s swift journey under the river promises speed and efficiency, contributing to Kolkata’s connectivity and urban mobility. Project Timeline and Challenges The East-West Metro corridor project commenced in 2009, with tunneling under the River Hooghly starting in 2017. Delays, including aquifer bursts and ground subsidence, have impacted the project’s completion timeline. Railway Development in West Bengal The project aligns with efforts to complete pending railway infrastructure projects in West Bengal, with a substantial increase in budget allocation over the past nine years. Senior railway officials highlighted a substantial increase in the budget outlay for West Bengal, reflecting a commitment to expedite pending metro railway projects in Kolkata and surrounding areas.

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Türkiye surpasses Spain as Germans’ favourite summer spot

These bookings have not only surpassed the figures recorded for summer 2019 by 11%, but they also remained 17% lower than the peak period before the pandemic struck. It was highlighted that for this upcoming summer, Türkiye has emerged as the most popular choice among the top 10 holiday destinations booked by Germans. In detailing the rankings for the most favored holiday package destinations for the summer of 2024, the association noted that Türkiye, particularly the Turkish Riviera region of Antalya, has claimed the top spot, moving ahead of Spain. The association further mentioned, “The country by the Bosporus shores is finding particular favor among families with children,” while also singling out Istanbul as another major attraction for tourists. Following Türkiye in popularity were Spain, Greece, and Egypt, as stated by the association. This shift in holiday destination preferences among Germans towards Türkiye could significantly bolster the tourism sector, potentially leading to increased cultural exchanges and economic benefits for Türkiye. Such trends not only highlight changing tourist preferences but also underscore the importance of the tourism industry in fostering global connections and understanding. According to recent statistics, Türkiye has overtaken Spain to become the most preferred summer holiday destination among Germans. The German Travel Association (DRV) disclosed on Monday that there had been a 30% increase in early bookings for holiday packages in Germany by the end of January, in comparison to the previous year. These bookings have not only surpassed the figures recorded for summer 2019 by 11%, but they also remained 17% lower than the peak period before the pandemic struck. It was highlighted that for this upcoming summer, Türkiye has emerged as the most popular choice among the top 10 holiday destinations booked by Germans. In detailing the rankings for the most favored holiday package destinations for the summer of 2024, the association noted that Türkiye, particularly the Turkish Riviera region of Antalya, has claimed the top spot, moving ahead of Spain. The association further mentioned, “The country by the Bosporus shores is finding particular favor among families with children,” while also singling out Istanbul as another major attraction for tourists. Following Türkiye in popularity were Spain, Greece, and Egypt, as stated by the association. This shift in holiday destination preferences among Germans towards Türkiye could significantly bolster the tourism sector, potentially leading to increased cultural exchanges and economic benefits for Türkiye. Such trends not only highlight changing tourist preferences but also underscore the importance of the tourism industry in fostering global connections and understanding.

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PM Modi to visit Kaziranga National Park in Assam; elephant rides and safari closed from March 7 to 9

In a historic event, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be staying overnight at the Kaziranga National Park in Assam and Tiger Reserve in Assam, which is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Because of this high-profile visit, the jeep safari and elephant ride will remain shut in the Kaziranga range of Kohora between March 7 and 9. The news of the PM’s visit was announced by Assam’s Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma. He informed that Narendra Modi will be visiting Kaziranga National Park on March 8 and stay overnight. The PM will embark on elephant safari on March 9. Arun Vignesh, Divisional Forest Officer, Eastern Assam Wildlife Division, said in a notice, “The jeep safari and elephant ride in Kaziranga Range, Kohora, will remain closed to visitors. Jeep Safari will remain closed to visitors on March 7, March 8 and March 9 - forenoon and elephant ride will remain closed on March 8 and March 9." Also, with this Modi will also become the first Prime Minister to stay overnight at the national park, which is noted for its population of one-horned rhinos. For those who don’t know, Kaziranga got the prestigious national park tag in February 1974 and this year the park will be celebrating its Golden Jubilee. As per reports, Modi is scheduled to go on a safari before leaving for Jorhat where he is scheduled to inaugurate a statue of a legendary Assamese warrior Lachit Borphukan. He will also visit Arunachal Pradesh on March 9 to inaugurate the Sela Tunnel in West Kameng. Kaziranga National Park in Assam is one of the prime wildlife reserves in India spread across 430 sq km. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is also among the most celebrated wildlife sanctuaries globally known for its thriving population of the endangered one-horned rhinoceros. Beyond rhinos, the park is a paradise for diverse flora and fauna, including elephants, tigers, wild water buffalo, and countless bird species, including migratory birds like pelicans and storks. This place is a paradise for photographers and wildlife lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.

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Total solar eclipse – when is it, and what are the do's and don'ts

Every so often, the cosmos treats us to a breathtaking celestial phenomenon: the total solar eclipse. This awe-inspiring event occurs when the moon passes between the Earth and the Sun, casting a shadow on our planet and briefly turning day into night. While witnessing a total solar eclipse is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for many, it's essential to approach it with caution and preparation. Let's delve into the wonders of total solar eclipses and explore the do's and don'ts of experiencing this extraordinary event. Understanding total solar eclipse A total solar eclipse occurs when the apparent diameter of the moon matches that of the Sun, creating a perfect alignment that blocks out the Sun's light. As the moon's shadow races across the Earth's surface, observers within the narrow path of totality are treated to a surreal spectacle: the Sun's corona, or outer atmosphere, glowing like a radiant halo around the darkened disk of the moon. This ethereal display lasts only a few precious minutes but leaves a lasting impression on all who witness it. The do's of viewing a total solar eclipse: Plan ahead: Research the date (April 8), time, and location of upcoming total solar eclipses well in advance. Determine the best viewing spots within the path of totality and make travel arrangements accordingly. There are few places around the world where one can experience total solar eclipse, so you will need some time to plan your travel (domestic and international). Use proper eye protection: Never look directly at the Sun during any phase of a solar eclipse without adequate eye protection. Use certified solar viewing glasses or solar filters for telescopes and cameras to prevent eye damage. Arrive early: Get to your chosen viewing location early to secure a good spot and avoid last-minute crowds and traffic. Set up your equipment, such as cameras and telescopes, well in advance to ensure a smooth viewing experience. Embrace the experience: Total solar eclipses are rare and magical events. Take time to appreciate the unique sights, sounds, and sensations of this cosmic spectacle. Capture memories through photography, but also take moments to simply soak in the wonder of the natural world. The don'ts of viewing a total solar eclipse: Don't look directly at the sun: Looking directly at the Sun, even during a partial eclipse, can cause permanent eye damage or blindness. Always use proper eye protection, such as solar viewing glasses or solar filters, to safely observe the eclipse. Don't rely solely on technology: While cameras, telescopes, and smartphones can enhance your eclipse viewing experience, don't forget to take time to observe the eclipse with your own eyes. Balance technology with direct observation to fully appreciate the event.

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