News

Andaman beaches to get around 150 shacks to become more livelier

As per the latest development, the beaches of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands are all set to become more lively with beach shacks. Reports add that the administration is planning to give permits for more than 150 shacks to be set up on selected beaches. This move is supposedly backed by the administration that came up with the plan based on feedback from tourists, who suggested that the scenic beaches of the islands are not as lively as they expect after sunset. Currently, tourists are not allowed to venture close to the sea at night on most of the beaches of the island. Referring to this, Tourism Department Director Jatinder Sohal stated that as per the plan, permits will be given for 20 beach shacks on Havelock island, and 40 for Neil island. Further reports add that in Havelock, 10 beach shacks will be set up in Kalapathar, 15 in Elephanta and five in Sitapur. While in Neil, 20 shacks each will be set up on Laxmanpur and Bharatpur beaches. As such, permits will be given for 10 beach shacks each at Corbyn's Cove and Badabalu in Port Blair. Also, 15 beach shacks will come up in Raman Bagaicha, 10 in Cutbert Bay and 15 in Baludera. Revealing more about this development, Sohal added that unauthorised hawkers and temporary shacks have come up in an unorganised manner at the popular beaches, which give a shabby look, thereby spoiling the beauty and ambience of the beaches apart from causing disturbance to the visitors. He also stated that it raises concern about environmental sustainability and the preservation of natural ecosystems. He, however, stated that the initiative will also generate revenue and create employment opportunities for the locals. Reports state that the shacks will be built using local and natural items, such as wood, bamboo, thatch, or even palm fronds, adding that the rustic look will blend with the surrounding environment, thereby allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the beauty of the beaches. Sohal also added that such shacks will be an integral part of coastal experiences around the world. The permission for the beach shacks will be given after an inspection by officials of the Tourism Department and the District Level Committees (DLC) of the Andaman Nicobar Coastal Zone Management Authority (ANCZMA). Reports also add that the permits will be cancelled if any shack is found indulging in discrimination over entry based on nationality, sex, caste, religion or race.

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You can now travel across Europe with one Air India ticket!

Attention, Air India passengers will soon be able to embark on a seamless journey to over 100 European cities and towns, including those without airports. This will become possible as Air India and AccesRail, an International Air Transport Association travel partner, have recently forged an intermodal agreement. With this development, Air India travelers will be able to explore numerous countries and over 100 European destinations with a single ticket. As per the reports, this partnership will allow Air India passengers to utilize bus and rail services while maintaining the same baggage allowance they enjoy during their flight. Your European adventure doesn't have to stop when you disembark; in short, it can commence as you step into the gateways of Europe. Which European countries will you be able to visit with this ticket? With this exciting development, passengers can travel through Austria, Belgium, Germany, the Czech Republic, Hungary, Italy, and the United Kingdom, using gateways like Amsterdam, Birmingham, London Heathrow, London Gatwick, Milan, and Vienna. Your intermodal ticket purchase grants you access to a range of bus and rail services, including Avanti West Coast (U.K.), National Express (U.K.), Trenitalia (Italy), ÖBB Austrian Railways (Austria), SNCB Belgian Railways, and Thalys (Netherlands/Belgium).

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Hyatt Place Vijayawada Debuts In Andhra Pradesh

Hyatt Hotels Corporation announced the opening of Hyatt Place Vijayawada, a modern haven offering 81 rooms and suites. The hotel marks the debut of the Hyatt Place brand in the state of Andhra Pradesh – a significant landmark in Hyatt’s brand growth in the market. Developed by RVS Conventions Private Limited, the property features the Hyatt Place brand’s intuitive design, casual atmosphere, and practical amenities, such as free Wi-Fi and 24-hour food offerings. Inspired by Hyatt’s commitment to care, the property sets a new standard in hospitality with its smart design, delivering a harmonious fusion of functionality and space for today’s multi-tasking traveler. The hotel is close to the city’s commercial district and a convenient 20-minute drive from the Vijayawada International Airport. Its central location also offers quick access to local attractions such as the iconic Prakasam Barrage and the ancient rock-cut architecture of Undavalli Caves. Hyatt Place Vijayawada welcomes guests to a world of contemporary comfort inspired by local interiors and art pieces. Each room is thoughtfully designed to ensure comfort and innovation, making it an ideal retreat for business and leisure travelers alike. The hotel’s exceptional amenities include two eclectic dining options, The Market and versatile event spaces perfect for hosting memorable weddings and gatherings. “The opening of Hyatt Place Vijayawada is rooted in our ambitious growth plans for Hyatt brands in India. Vijayawada has demonstrated significant economic and tourism potential in recent years, and we are delighted to foray into this booming destination where our guests travel, as well as where owners and developers can leverage our global distribution network and World of Hyattloyalty program,” said Dhruva Rathore, Vice President of Development, India & South West Asia, Hyatt. “We are absolutely thrilled to bring the first HyattPlace hotel to Andhra Pradesh. With Hyatt Place Vijayawada, we aim to share our passion for excellence, ensuring every guest feels cherished and embraced within the Hyatt family. We are excited to contribute to Vijayawada’s vibrant tourism landscape and look forward to welcoming guests from around the world to experience the unparalleled warmth and community that the World of Hyatt represents. Defined by how people want to travel today, the hotel has design elements featuring custom accents, artwork and up-to-date technology that are uniquely positioned to appeal to the world traveler.” said Karthik Ramisetty, Managing Director, RVS Conventions Private Limited. Hyatt Place Vijayawada has 81 guestrooms including two suites offering views of the peaceful Eastern Ghat mountains in the distance and the energetic city below. Designed with a tasteful blend of contemporary comfort and the local flavor of Andhra, the rooms and suites are fully equipped to accommodate the modern traveler with separate spaces to sleep, work and play. King guestrooms also include a Cozy Corner sofa-sleeper. Guests at Hyatt Place Vijayawada can enjoy an eclectic culinary experience at the hotel’s dining venues. The all-day open-kitchen restaurant, Zing, serves one of the finest buffet dining experiences with authentic local Andhra, Indian, Asian and Continental cuisine. The Market offers a grab-and-go selection of freshly made croissants and pastries, perfectly packaged salads and sandwiches, and handcrafted mocktails. Guests can also order in-room dining from the extensive menu on offer. Hyatt Place Vijayawada offers 6,602 sq. ft. of flexible meeting and event space, including a grand Ballroom. These high-tech venues offer both indoor and outdoor settings and are suited for both private meetings and large social gatherings. Guests at the hotel can indulge in some leisure time at the swimming pool. The hotel also offers 24/7 access to a fitness center.

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Direct flight between Amritsar, Kuala Lumpur resumes

The airline started the service with four-weekly flights, connecting Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport, Amritsar, with Australian cities of Melbourne, Sydney, Perth and Gold Coast with convenient short layover connections via Kuala Lumpur In a good news for the passengers travelling from Punjab to Australia, Kuala Lumpur, Thailand and other Southeast Asian countries, Malaysia-based low-cost carrier Air Asia X resumed its direct flights between Kuala Lumpur and Amritsar on Sunday. These flights were suspended due to Covid in March 2020. The direct flight will benefit passengers travelling from Punjab to Australia, Kuala Lumpur, Thailand and other Southeast Asian countries. (AFP file) The direct flight will benefit passengers travelling from Punjab to Australia, Kuala Lumpur, Thailand and other Southeast Asian countries. (AFP file) The airline started the service with four-weekly flights, connecting Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport, Amritsar, with Australian cities of Melbourne, Sydney, Perth and Gold Coast with convenient short layover connections via Kuala Lumpur. This will bring relief to the Punjabi community in Australia and other Southeast Asian countries as it will take much less time and fares as compared to Delhi. Travellers will also be able to avail the flights of Air Asia X via Kuala Lumpur to Bangkok, Indonesia, Philippines and other tourist destinations within a short span of time. Amritsar member of Parliament Gurjit Singh Aujla visited the airport to meet the Air Asia X crew and passengers brought by the flight from Malaysia. “We offer congratulations to all for the resumption of the flight after over three years. I hope this flight will get good response from people,” said Aujla while interacting with the media. Members of FlyAmritsar Initiative and Amritsar Vikas Manch which played a leading role in starting the flights in August 2018, were regularly following up with the senior management of Air Asia X for resumption of these services. “This will not only make travel easier for the Punjabi community, but will also greatly benefit the tourism industry of Amritsar,” said Sameep Singh Gumtala, global convener, FlyAmritsar Initiative. According to the bookings available on its website, on Sunday and Monday, the flight will depart Kuala Lumpur in the morning at 7.35 am and arrive in Amritsar at 11 am and then depart at 12.30 pm in the afternoon reaching Kuala Lumpur in the evening at 8.55 pm. On Wednesday and Friday, the flight will depart Malaysia at 8.25 pm arriving Amritsar at 11.50 pm and then depart next day at 1 am on Thursday and Saturday and reach Malaysia at 9.25 am. Malaysia Airlines to start flights from Nov 8 Aujla also said Malaysia Airlines is also set to start direct Amritsar-Kuala Lumpur flight from November 8. According to the schedule available on its website, the airline will launch this route with two flights per week on every Wednesday and Saturday. The airline will deploy its 160-seater Boeing 737-800 aircraft for this route. Departing from Kuala Lumpur at 6.50 pm, the flight will land at Amritsar at 10.10 pm. The return flight will take-off from Amritsar at 11.25 pm and arrive at Kuala Lumpur at 7.30 am the following morning. Presently, the airport maintains direct international connections with cities such as London, Birmingham, Milan, Rome, Dubai, Sharjah, Doha, Singapore and Kuala Lumpur through airlines Air India, Air India Express, IndiGo, SpiceJet, Qatar Airways, Scoot, Batik Air, AirAsia X and Neos Airlines.

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Karnataka Govt explores launching State-Owned Airline for enhanced regional connectivity

Bengaluru, India (Urban Transport News): The Karnataka state government is actively exploring the possibility of establishing a stateowned airline to bolster regional connectivity. This ambitious initiative aims to improve accessibility to key destinations within Karnataka and boost economic development in the region. Industries and Infrastructure Development Minister MB Patil shared details of this exciting proposal during a recent press briefing. Patil disclosed that he had engaged in discussions with Sanjay Ghodawat, the owner and founder of Star Air, who provided insights into the venture. Ghodawat indicated that the acquisition of a single aircraft would require an estimated investment of Rs 200 crore. However, economies of scale come into play if the government opts to acquire three new aircraft, potentially reducing the total cost to Rs 600 crore. Leasing aircraft is another viable option that could further reduce the financial burden. Patil emphasized that Rs 600 crore is a manageable investment for the state government considering the long-term benefits and improved connectivity it would bring. The proposed state-owned airline is expected to enhance air travel options along crucial routes, including Bengaluru-Mysuru, Bengaluru-Kalaburagi, Bengaluru-Hubballi, Bengaluru-Shivamogga, and Mysuru-Kalaburagi, significantly benefiting passengers and promoting economic growth in these areas.

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UAE-India travel: Airfares set to drop by 15-30% after September 14, to stay stable until November 1

Dubai: Passengers from UAE to India who had been deferring their travel plans because of high airfares can now breathe easy. After three months of high fares, booking aggregators and travel agents have confirmed that return ticket prices from UAE to India are set to decrease by 15-30 per cent from summertime highs of Dh1,800 to Dh2,600. |Rates are expected to soften after September 14 and remain in the Dh794 to Dh952 range until November 1. These fares will remain consistent on flights to major cities in India. Following this, fares are expected to stay elevated until the second week of January 2024, coinciding with the festival season as well as the New Year rush, say travel agents. Moreover, Dubai’s flagship carrier Emirates will introduce Premium Economy services to Mumbai and Bengaluru from October 29, coinciding with the beginning of the winter peak season. Basheer Mohammed, General Manager of Europe Travel and Tours, said, “After an expensive summer, especially for average middle-class families, fares are finally stabilising in the India-UAE sector.” He added, “Currently, fares to the Mumbai and Delhi sectors are from Dh900 to Dh1,200. Fares to South Indian destinations are also in the same price range.” Sweet respite in airfares Many Indian expatriates returning to the UAE after the summer holidays had to delay their travel plans due to a more than 200 per cent increase in fares compared to off-season dates. However, fares for round-trip travel have now significantly dropped. For instance, an Economy class ticket from Dubai to Mumbai was initially priced at Dh890-Dh1,200 for travel from September 4 to 9 but has now been reduced to Dh845-Dh928 for travel from September 14 to 21. Similarly, Delhi-Dubai flights were priced at Dh1,073 for late August to early September travel, but they now average Dh908 for later this month. On the hyper-busy South India sector, especially Kerala, fares had surged to Dh1,288-Dh2,277 in late August. However, off-peak fares for September and October now average Dh600-Dh1,000 per traveller. Dubai to Kochi fares stand at Dh922 (compared to return fares of Dh1,427), and Dubai to Chennai is Dh914 (compared to peak-summer highs of Dh1,718).” Uptick in inbound travel The inbound UAE share has seen a marked increase from 28 per cent to 39 per cent, indicating strong interest from international travellers to explore UAE’s offerings, said Atish Thapa, Head of Business and Marketing Middle East, Cleartrip.com. Stay trends, according to Thapa, indicate that Indian travellers stay longer in the country. “About 24 per cent of the visitors are staying for four weeks, compared to the 23 per cent choosing to stay for one week,” he explained. About 15 per cent stay for five weeks. “This reflects a healthy blend of short-term tourists seeking a brief getaway and longer-term visitors, including those visiting friends and relatives,” Thapa added. Busy season ahead According to Sachin Gadoya, CEO and Co-Founder of musafir.com and Musafir Business, as Q4 draws near, the UAE’s travel landscape is set for a massive change. “A convergence of many factors, including pleasant weather and a busy event calendar, is expected to cause a surge in inbound travel” especially from India, which remains UAE’s leading source market for inbound travellers, said Gadoya. According to the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism, Dubai welcomed 1,223,000 travellers from January to June this year, a 43 per cent hike compared to the same period last year. With mega events like the Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix to COP28, this sector will see a substantial rise in inbound travel, said Gadoya. “We also predict several travellers to blend business with leisure activities,” he added.

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