Here’s your weekly dose of travel updates!
Check out the latest news and updates about the travel and tourism industry from around the world.
1. Bali – 2023’s Most Popular Honeymoon Destination according to Google
The dazzling crown jewel of Indonesia, Bali has been chosen as 2023’s most popular honeymoon destination according to Google’s Year in Search Report. This affordable yet mesmerising destination is popular among couples for several reasons. Firstly, Indians do not require an Indonesia Visa. Secondly, most of the all-inclusive Bali Tour Packages offer tempting views of white sand beaches, luxury beachfront resorts, tranquil rice terraces, mystical Hindu temples and photogenic landscapes.
2. Now possible to save 2 hours on Travel Time between Mumbai to Ahmedabad
Western Railway (WR) is now in the final stage of working out an infrastructure and engineering update. This update will allow trains to run up to 160 kmph reducing the travel time between Mumbai and Ahmedabad approximately by two hours from March 2024. However, if you need to reach Ahmedabad in less than 2 hours, taking a flight is the best option. Simply book cheap flights from Mumbai to Ahmedabad with flying time of approx. an hour.
3. Maharashtra’s Kaas Plateau Day Safari reopens for Tourists after 6-month hiatus
The renowned UNESCO World Heritage Site and a favourite tourist spot in any Maharashtra Tour Packages is the Kaas Plateau in Satara. After a 6-month hiatus, the Kaas Plateau Executive announced the reopening of the Kaas Darshan ‘Day’ Safari. The nearly 50 km long safari allows tourists to explore spots like Kas Plateau, Sajjangad point, Mandapghal caves, Ghatai Devrai (sacred groves), Kumudini lake, Vajrai waterfall, Vanjulwadi, Andhari Sahyadri Nagar windmills, Venna river, Ekiw falls, and Navra-Navri hill at Attadi village. The resumption of this safari will provide tourism as well as employment boost in the area.
4. Kenya to become Visa-free from January 2024
In recent developments, Indians nationals would no longer be requiring a Kenya Visa to enter the country. Kenya President William Ruto announced, “It shall no longer be necessary for any person from any corner of the globe to carry the burden of applying for a visa to come to Kenya.” Global tourists will now be able to explore the majestic wildlife and beautiful landscapes of Kenya without a visa. However, visitors will have to apply for an electronic travel authorisation (ETA) beforehand.
5. ‘Thailand’s Songkran Festival’ attains Spot in UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage List
The traditional Thai festival ‘Songkran’ or also called the Thai New Year has recently been formally recognised by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage. For those curious about the cultural and religious significance of Songkran can plan a trip to Thailand in April as Indians do not require a Thailand Visa up till May 10.
Along with the Songkran festival, other Thai elements previously added to UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage List are Khon (2018), Thai Massage (2019) and Nora (2021).
Also Read: Gujarat’s Garba Dance Makes It To UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage List
6. Paris to Hong Kong: Euromonitor International’s Top 100 City Destinations Index 2023 Revealed
Encompassing several pillars including economic and business performance, tourism performance, tourism infrastructure, tourism policy and attractiveness, health and safety, as well as sustainability, the top 10 most visited cities in 2023 according to Euromonitor International are:
- Paris
- Dubai
- Madrid
- Tokyo
- Amsterdam
- Berlin
- Rome
- New York
- Barcelona
- Singapore
7. Akasa Air looking to expand in Doha, Kuwait, Riyadh and Jeddah in 3-4 Months
In an announcement by Akasa Air CEO Vinay Dube, the airline is all set to introduce international flights to key international destinations, especially in the Middle East. Within the next 3 to 4 months, Akasa Air is looking to expand its fleet of aircraft. Flyers will be able to book cheap flights to Doha, Kuwait, Riyadh and Jeddah with Akasa Air.
8. Manish Malhotra unveils New Crew and Pilot Uniforms for Air India
Air India recently unveiled the uniforms for Air India’s cabin crew and pilots designed by designer Manish Malhotra. For the female cabin crew, they will adorn ombre ready-to-wear sarees. These sarees can also be worn with blazers and pants bringing a unique East meets West look. The men will be seen sporting bandhgalas. The cockpit crew will feature classic double-breasted suits.
“I am honoured to have been given the opportunity to design the uniforms for Air India. It is a privilege to be able to contribute to the national flag-bearer and showcase the elegance and charm of Indian fashion. My aim was to create uniforms that capture the essence of India’s diverse culture and traditions while also embodying a modern and sophisticated look,” says Manish.
9. Louvre Museum of Paris to hike Entrance Fee by 29% in 2024
A quintessential spot in any of the Paris Tour Packages, the Louvre Art Museum in Paris is all set to hike its entrance fee from January 2024. In a first price hike since 2017, the entrance fee will go up from 17 Euros to 22 Euros, approximately a 29% price hike. The higher tariff will help fund free entry for children under 18, teachers and journalists.
Paris’ Louvre Museum is home to paintings like the Mona Lisa, the Great Sphinx of Tanis, the Winged Victory of Samothrace and more. Along with Paris in France, the Schengen Visa will take you to nearly 25 other countries in Europe.
10. Geoscientists discover 6 million-year-old ‘Groundwater Pool’ beneath Sicilian Mountains
In a recent study published in the Communications Earth & Environment Journal states that new research has unveiled the presence of a substantial freshwater reservoir. This water body had been drawn into the Earth’s crust six million years ago during the Messinian salinity crisis. Researchers have a glimmering hope to possibly extract water from this freshwater source.
11. Big Relief for Sabarimala Travellers! Special Vande Bharat announced from Chennai to Kottayam to deal with Sabarimala rush
Southern Railway has taken to X to announce, “Vande Bharat Sabari Special trains will be operated between Dr MGR Chennai Central – Kottayam – Dr MGR Chennai Central – to clear extra rush of passengers during Sabarimala festival. Passengers are requested to take note of this and plan your journey.”
The train will depart from MGR Chennai Central at 8:30 AM and reach Kottayam at 7:20 PM on the same day. These trains will run on December 15, 17, 22 and 24. There are also trains available for the Kottayam- Chennai journey. Advance reservations for the Vande Bharat Sabri special train have opened.
12. Karnataka Tourism to set up Jungle Hotels in the forested Regions of Kappatagudda
Adding to Karnataka’s efforts to boost tourism, jungle hotels are now coming up in the Kappatagudda area of Karnataka. This region is a tourist heaven post rains and hence lodging and other efforts are being made to lure in more visitors. According to the plan, the jungle hotels in Kappatagudda will be ready to host visitors by June 2024.
With so much to see and experience in the world, who wouldn’t be excited to travel? Head over to Akbartravels.com and find solutions to all your worries related to visa applications, flight tickets, and hotel bookings. What else? We have the best budget holiday packages available to make your holiday truly peaceful.
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