Tourism

Colombo,4th March 2025: Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts, Sri Lanka’s has announced the appointment of Gaurav Arora as the Director of Global Sales for India, effective 3 March 2025. With over two decades of experience in international hospitality sales, Gaurav has successfully driven outbound business for leading global hotel brands, including Shangri-La, Hilton and Marriott International. In his most recent role, Gaurav led Enhance Hospitality, a luxury hotel representation firm, successfully managing top-tier international brands in the Indian market.In his new role,Gaurav will drive revenue growth across Corporate, Leisure and MICE segments and execute sales strategies to strengthen Cinnamon’s brand presence in India. He will also be responsible in enhancing partnerships for the Global Sales Office, to drive market growth across India. Commenting on the appointment, the Chief Commercial Officer of Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts, Radhey Tawar, said “We are delighted to welcome Gaurav to Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts at a pivotal time to support us in our efforts to expand our sales presence in the Indian market – our top source market for tourist arrivals currently. His deep understanding of the Indian outbound travel landscape will support us to strengthen our presence and manage meaningful partnerships across Corporate, MICE and Leisure travel segments.” Gaurav Arora also commenting on his new role as the Director of Global Sales for India for Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts, says, “I am excited to join Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts as the Indian outbound travel to Sri Lanka and the Maldives is experiencing significant growth. I look forward to leveraging my expertise to expand our brand presence and to ensure strategic alignment to the success of Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts in India.”

New Delhi, February 19, 2025: The 32nd edition of SATTE, South Asia’s leading travel and tourism exhibition, was inaugurated at Yashobhoomi, New Delhi, by Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Minister of Tourism & Culture, Government of India, and V. Vidyavathi, Tourism Secretary, Government of India. Under the theme “Tourism 2025: Fostering Global Collaboration for Mutual Growth,” SATTE 2025 brings together global industry leaders, policymakers, and stakeholders to shape the future of travel and tourism. The inaugural ceremony witnessed the presence of dignitaries such as Omar Abdullah, Chief Minister of Jammu & Kashmir; Rohan Khaunte, Minister for Tourism, IT and Printing & Stationery, Govt of Goa; Umid Shadiev, Minister of Tourism Uzbekistan; Kandula Durgesh, Minister for Tourism, Culture & Cinematography, Government of Andhra Pradesh;Jakkaphon Tangsutthitham, Vice Minister, Ministry of Tourism and Sports, Thailand; Subhash Goyal, Chairman- STIC Group; Peter Hall, President, IMEA, Informa Markets, IMEA; Yogesh Mudras, Managing Director, Informa Markets in India and Pallavi Mehra, Sr Group Director- Informa Markets in India & Publisher- Travel Trends Today. Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Minister of Tourism & Culture, Government of India said, “It’s truly a remarkable moment as SATTE marks 32 years of bringing the travel and tourism community together and opening doors to new opportunities. Today’s energy and enthusiasm at SATTE reflect this vibrant sector’s incredible potential. We are committed to fostering new collaborations in the South Asia Pacific region, and SATTE plays a key role in driving this vision forward.” He further added, “India’s tourism story is evolving, we are no longer just a destination but a growing tourism market. The future holds immense promise, especially with the rise of MICE tourism, which calls for robust infrastructure across the country. In recent years, we’ve seen a significant increase in hotels, and the number of aircraft is expected to triple. The government is fully aligned with this growth, supporting states in developing 40 new destinations and encouraging unique tourism experiences nationwide. With domestic trade on the rise and people’s incomes growing, investments in tourism infrastructure will create a ripple effect across the economy. As we look ahead, with the sector projected to grow at a CAGR of 24%, I believe India’s tourism landscape is set for a transformative journey. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to everyone participating in SATTE 2025, together, let’s continue working towards a brighter future for tourism in India.” With over 2,000 exhibitors, participation from more than 50 countries, and representation from 28 state tourism boards, SATTE 2025 continues to serve as the region’s premier platform for industry networking, policy discussions, and business collaborations. This year, ‘Atithi,’ an exclusive buyer-seller meet in collaboration with the Services Export Promotion Council (SEPC), is once again a key highlight. The initiative will welcome 250 international buyers, offering them an immersive experience of India’s tourism potential. Another significant development at SATTE 2025 is the participation of the Indian Ports Authority, which is spotlighting the transformative Cruise Bharat Mission and the vast opportunities for cruise tourism along India’s coastline. Exhibitors include travel agents, tour operators, online travel platforms, airlines, hoteliers, and tourism boards. Key international destinations being showcased include Malaysia, Hong Kong, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Cambodia, Greece, Bhutan, Jamaica, Taiwan, Uzbekistan, Qatar, Mauritius, Fiji, St. Petersburg, Dubai, Indonesia, Azerbaijan, Nepal, Thailand, and Sri Lanka. Leading Indian states such as Gujarat, Rajasthan, Odisha, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Tamil Nadu, and Punjab are also at the forefront. The exhibition places a strong focus on core sectors such as homestays, luxury villas, adventure tourism, domestic travel, and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions), offering businesses an opportunity to promote their brands, generate leads, and share industry insights. Speaking at the event, Yogesh Mudras, Managing Director, Informa Markets in India, said,”SATTE 2025 marks a defining moment for the travel and tourism industry. With this milestone edition at Yashobhoomi, New Delhi, SATTE continues to be ‘Plus One’—always a step ahead in driving innovation and collaboration. India’s travel market is set to reach $125 billion by FY27, with the hospitality industry projected to grow to $52 billion, reinforcing its economic significance. Transformative government initiatives—from expanded e-visas to cruise tourism under the Cruise Bharat Mission—are strengthening India’s position as a global tourism powerhouse. As the industry embraces sustainability and digitalization, SATTE remains at the forefront—nurturing partnerships, shaping future trends, and ensuring tourism’s benefits extend to every part of the country. Engaging experiences such as Colours of SATTE, the SHAKTI Awards, and the SATTE Awards make this event not just a business enabler but a true celebration of the industry’s vibrancy and potential,” he added. The opening day of SATTE 2025 featured a series of high-impact business sessions. The session on “India’s MICE Market: Prospects & Potential,” moderated by Mugdha Sinha, IAS, Director General, Tourism, Government of India, explored the rapid expansion of India’s MICE industry, valued at $3.3 billion and expected to reach $10.5 billion by 2030. Industry experts, including Chander Mansharamani (Alpcord Network Travel & Conferences), KB Kachru (Radisson Hotel Group), Mohammad Ali (Accor), Yogesh Mudras (Informa Markets – India), and Hyung Phil Chung (KINEXIN Convention Management), shared insights on the opportunities and challenges in this fast-growing sector. Another key session, “Tourism Vision: The 2047 Impact,” moderated by Aashish Gupta, Founder, Strategy Pluto & Consulting CEO – FAITH, examined how India’s tourism industry is being envisioned for the country’s 100th year of independence. Key stakeholders, including Mugdha Sinha (Director General, Tourism, Govt. of India), Rajiv Mehra (IATO), Dr. Abhay Sinha (SEPC), Aalap Bansal (KPMG), and Arvind Singh (Former Tourism Secretary, Govt. of India), provided insights into the long-term strategies shaping the future of global tourism. State tourism development was a central focus in the session “State Leaders in Focus: Perspectives on Growth, Policies, and Partnerships,” moderated by Raj Singh, Founder & Chairman, Antara Cruises. Goa Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte, Nagaland Tourism Minister Temjen Imna Along, and senior representatives from Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, Uttarakhand, and Madhya Pradesh shared their perspectives on leveraging regional attractions to boost visitor traffic and strengthen their positioning in the global tourism landscape. Wedding tourism was another major

WASHINGTON, D.C. 17th Feb 2025: Brand USA, the destination marketing organization for the United States, announced the appointment of Leah Chandler, CDME as its new Chief Marketing Officer, beginning March 17. With over 20 years of experience in branding, advertising, and destination marketing within the travel and tourism industry, Chandler will lead Brand USA’s global marketing strategy. She will spearhead efforts to inspire international travel to the United States through innovative campaigns and by elevating the country’s presence as a premier global destination. “I am thrilled to welcome Leah to the Brand USA team as Chief Marketing Officer,” said Fred Dixon, president and CEO of Brand USA. “Her extensive destination marketing and leadership experience will greatly enhance our long-term marketing strategies, help expand global brand awareness and strengthen the USA’s position as the leading aspirational travel destination in the world.” Chandler joins a strong leadership team put in place by Dixon following his appointment as the organization’s chief executive officer in July 2024. Her arrival comes at a pivotal moment as the United States’ international inbound travel industry shifts from recovery to growth and new records. “Since July, we’ve expanded focus on global communications, trade and product development, strategic partnerships, AI and innovation and the meetings and events sectors. Bringing Leah on board completes our leadership team and prepares us well to advance our strategic approac h to consumer marketing, content creation, partner programs and analytics,” said Dixon. “With the decade of major events ahead, Brand USA is better positioned than ever to capitalize on these opportunities to grow inbound visitation, visitor spending and economic impact.” Before joining Brand USA, she served as the Chief Marketing Officer of Discover Puerto Rico, where she re-positioned the brand, laying the foundation for four years of record-breaking tourism growth. Under her leadership, Discover Puerto Rico launched its most successful marketing campaign, “Live Boricua,” which celebrates the island’s vibrant culture. Since 2018, the campaign has driven significant growth in perception, awareness, and visitor interest, solidifying Puerto Rico’s position as a premier global destination.

Male, Maldives, 5th February, 2025: JW Marriott, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of over 30 extraordinary hotel brands, announces the opening of JW Marriott Kaafu Atoll Island Resort, the second JW Marriott resort in the Maldives. Nestled in Kaafu Atoll’s largest lagoon and conveniently located just 15 minutes by boat from Velana International Airport, this luxurious retreat offers an idyllic sanctuary to recharge the mind, body, and spirit in this tropical oceanic paradise. “JW Marriott Kaafu Atoll Island embodies our dedication to blending unparalleled luxury with holistic well-being, offering guests a peaceful escape where every detail is designed to inspire balance and rejuvenation,” says Bruce Rohr, Vice President & Global Brand Leader, JW Marriott. “With the Maldives’ natural beauty as a backdrop, we aim to provide an exceptional experience that deeply resonates with those seeking tranquility, mindfulness, and world-class service. We look forward to welcoming guests to this extraordinary destination, where they can truly disconnect and find harmony.” With 80 thoughtfully designed private pool villas, including 47 overwater pool villas, the resort blends traditional island aesthetics with contemporary luxury to create a harmonious connection with nature. A haven for relaxation, each villa boasts expansive terraces, uninterrupted views of the Indian Ocean, and access to pristine lagoons. Perched above the turquoise waters, the Three-Bedroom Ocean Residence offers an unparalleled sanctuary, blending luxury with breathtaking views for a truly exceptional experience. Tailored for families or groups of friends, this elegant residence provides a refined space to connect and create lasting memories, all while enjoying uninterrupted panoramic ocean views. A Sanctuary of Design and Environmental Stewardship Envisioned by acclaimed architect Cuneyt Bukulmez of Turkey-based Atolye4N, the resort’s villa design artfully blends local Maldivian touches with sleek, modern elements drawing inspiration from the enchanting island. The arrival jetty, inspired by the graceful flight of the Maakana heron, sets the tone for the resort’s design. The villas echo traditional Maldivian ‘Gedhoru’ huts, with kajan roofs and vibrant turquoise doors, complemented by a calming palette of neutral tones. Thoughtful nods to Maldivian lacquerware crafts and contrasting elements are seamlessly woven throughout, creating a serene and harmonious retreat. The resort fosters a deep connection with nature, seamlessly blending indoor and outdoor living. Floor-to-ceiling glass doors open to opalescent ocean views, while open-air showers and private pools create an intimate oasis. Crafted with natural materials such as timber and stone, the resort’s design pays homage to the raw beauty of the island nation, offering an elevated experience of luxury, tranquility, and mindful relaxation. Embodying its commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship, the resort is proud to be part of a groundbreaking collaboration with INVENA. Motivated by shifting tides and global warming challenges faced by island nations, this initiative introduces a pioneering 30-meter-long underwater coastal structure, designed in collaboration with the Self-Assembly Lab, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, to attenuate wave action and combat beach erosion. The installation will also foster vibrant marine ecosystems by creating a reef habitat that attracts diverse fish and coral. Guests will have the unique opportunity to interact with this innovative project, contributing to scientific efforts addressing climate challenges. A Culinary Journey The resort’s seven distinct dining venues and bars offer an extraordinary culinary journey, featuring flavors from around the world and thoughtfully sourced ingredients, inviting guests to indulge in a celebration of taste and craftsmanship. Veyo, with its international menu, celebrates the resort’s innate flair for catering to a wide range of discerning tastes where fresh and inspiring ingredients paired with panoramic views awaken the senses. Meanwhile, Wahoo, the infinity pool bar, provides a laid-back yet refined atmosphere where guests can enjoy refreshing beverages and aromatic dishes. At Athiri, the resort’s signature steakhouse, guests will be captivated by its stunning two-story design, featuring a dramatic curved roof inspired by the rise and fall of ocean waves. Here, premium cuts of meat are expertly prepared, complemented by panoramic views of the Indian Ocean. Perched above, Nikkei offers a vibrant bar experience with craft cocktails and light bites inspired by the fusion of Peruvian cuisine and global influences, blending both Japanese and European traditions. At Riva, guests can indulge in a sophisticated reinterpretation of Indian Ocean heritage. This fine dining destination elevates traditional Indian dishes, Sri Lankan elements, and local Maldivian flavors, served in an elegant and contemporary setting. For those seeking an intentional dining experience, Pure, showcases fresh, locally sourced ingredients crafted into exquisite dishes that honor the island’s natural bounty. Many ingredients such as Rosemary, Mint, Basil, Thyme and Sage are harvested directly from the JW Garden, offering an authentic farm-to-table experience. Tito’s, a charming deli and patisserie, offers a captivating convergence of visual artistry and exquisite flavors. Its carefully curated collection of handcrafted delights features decadent chocolates, delicate macarons, rich truffles, luxurious cakes, and flaky pastries — each one designed to indulge and enchant the senses. The resort also offers bespoke private dining options, where intimate spaces are designed to foster connection. Every culinary moment at the resort is an invitation to savor and create unforgettable memories. Restore, Revive, and Reconnect At the overwater Spa by JW, guests can find renewal through exclusive treatments featuring BABOR’s precision skincare products — a first in the Maldives. The signature treatment, Ocean Bliss, crafted in collaboration with BABOR, highlights their most prestigious anti-aging skincare range, SeaCreation, enriched with precious active ingredients sourced from deep sea, delivering a transformative experience that embodies the best of precision skincare and island-inspired relaxation. Wellness enthusiasts can also enjoy sunrise yoga, a state-of-the-art fitness center with ocean views, and a lap pool. Guests seeking adventure can participate in marine life activities through snorkeling, diving, and tailored ocean excursions. Thrill-seekers can explore dolphin safaris or parasailing, while those craving stillness can sail into the sunset on a cruise. The resort’s carefully designed public spaces create moments of serenity for calm reflection, helping to restore balance and focus. Whether indulging in exceptional cuisine, unwinding at the overwater Spa by JW, or partaking in unforgettable adventures, every aspect is designed to inspire renewal

January 16,2025: California announces a highly anticipated opening of new and refurbished hotels and resorts to theme parks and restaurants as well as important anniversaries throughout the year, providing endless opportunities to explore California’s top attractions. These exciting new updates, along with many others, make 2025 a truly exciting year to visit California. Here is a look at the top debuts in California this year. Family Friendly Fun The San Francisco Zoo is set to welcome giant pandas for the first time in roughly 40 years in late 2025. More fun awaits at Universal Fan Fest Nights in Universal Studios Hollywood providing the opportunity to step into the worlds of your favorite characters at after-hours fan events on select evenings from April 25–May 18, 2025. For more kid-friendly experiences, head to the new Tiana’s Bayou Adventure at Disneyland Resort, Anaheim, for a one-of-a-kind Mardis Gras celebration. LEGOLAND in Carlsbad is also reopening its two driving school experiences in 2025 in a brand-new location. Ultimately, opening spring 2025, Jewels of the Sea: The Jellyfish Experience at SeaWorld San Diego is set to be the first of its kind at SeaWorld parks.Mission Rock, San Francisco, a new waterfront neighborhood has emerged on the San Francisco Bay, offering five acres of green space, views of Oracle Park and the Bay Bridge, a sandy shoreline, and a still-expanding roster of restaurants, including local favorites such as Flour + Water and Arsicault Bakery. Sports The much-anticipated highlights of the star-studded NBA All-Star Weekend taking place Feb. 14–16, 2025, include the NBA Crossover fan event at the Moscone Center in San Francisco, as well as a celebrity match up and rising stars game at Oakland Arena. The weekend will culminate in the NBA All-Star Game at the Chase Center, home of the Golden State Warriors and the WNBA’s Golden State Valkyries, who will make their debut in May 2025.Additionally,the recently opened Intuit Dome, Inglewood, a 17,700-seat venue, houses five basketball courts.The 7,500capacity Frontwave Arena, Oceanside, the new home to the Sockers indoor soccer and the L.A. Clippers G-League basketball,will also host musical acts, comedy and family shows, and community events. New Hotels and Resorts FromChicken Ranch in the Sierra Nevada, a 34,000-square-foot casino resort, to the 18-room Fainting Couch boutique hotel in Lake County near the tranquil Cobb Mountain, are new accommodations worth trying. For nature enthusiasts, Yosemite’s new offerings, which include glamping experiences at Wildhaven Yosemite and cottages at Firefall Ranch, are both adventurous and relaxing. Moreover, SoCal welcomed the historic Fairmont Breakers Long Beach in November, bringing 1920s luxury back to the coast with an open-air rooftop lounge, a two-story spa, and a live jazz club. Restaurants and Nightlife Set to open in 2025, the Mess Hall at the Presidio, in San Francisco will operate as an all-day café, market, and bar within San Francisco’s Tunnel Tops Park. The David Chang–founded restaurant group known for its pork buns and innovative ramen is opening Super Peach by Momofuku in spring 2025. Savor the star chef Nobu Matsuhisa signature miso-marinated black cod and yellow tail sashimi with jalapeño while taking in ocean views when Nobu opens at the historic Hotel del Coronado in spring 2025. Jumbo’s Win Win, Philo; RO Restaurant & Lounge, Yountville; Valley Goat, Sunnyvale; and River Street Marketplace, San Juan Capistrano; are amongst the other restaurants set to add flavor to California’s culinary landscape. The Yucaipa Valleyis a newly distinguished American Viticulture Area in the Inland Empire. It claims to be the highest elevation AVA in the state of California (up to 4,600 feet) where you can taste the Syrah and Barbera at Suveg Cellars, the region’s first award-winning winery. Retail Openings California’s first Nintendo store is opening in San Francisco’s Union Square in 2025.A three-level Rolex flagship operated by Gearys opened in December 2024 on the Beverly Hills luxury shopping street. South Coast Plaza, Costa Mesa, the largest luxury shopping destination on the West Coast will add several brands in 2025 and Fashion Valley, San Diego welcomed new boutiques with other luxury brands set to open their doors in 2025. Museums and Culture Opening in spring 2025, Counterculture Museum, San Francisco, will examine the lasting impact of movements ranging from the Beat Generation and women’s liberation to LGBTQ+ rights and beyond. At the Santa Ynez Chumash Museum & Cultural Center opening in 2025, learn about the rich cultural heritage of the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians. Ultimately, two ADA-accessible theatre spaces in the historic former Navy Building 178 in Liberty Station in San Diego, the Joan and Irwin Jacobs Performing Arts Center opening in 2025, will host live performances and house a lower-level gallery showcasing local artists. Notable Anniversaries Gilroy’s agriculture-themed park, Gilroy Gardens Family Theme Park, kicks off its 25th anniversary with a springtime celebration, followed by a new Cherry Jubilee event in the summer.Along with the return of fan-favourite parades, Anaheim’s Disneyland Resort is introducing new entertainment including a character cavalcade and the “Walt Disney—A Magical Life” show. Festivities begin May 16, 2025, and will run through summer 2026.The historic Belmont Park Centennial in San Diego’s Mission Beach ushers in its 100th year fresh off 2024 renovations that included the opening of the new Shipwreck Cove ride. (News published on as shared basis by Visit California )

Delhi,November 27, 2024: BRANDit has been appointed as the integrated sales, marketing, and PR agency in India for Kenya Tourism Board (KTB). Marking a milestone in Kenya-India tourism relations, the leading tourism representation company will be responsible for establishing Kenya, the East African nation as a leading outbound destination in India. India has consistently ranked among the top five source markets for Kenya, contributing significantly to its tourism growth. Recognising this potential, KTB brought BRANDit on board to navigate this dynamic market and spearhead trade and marketing initiatives for MagicalKenya brand. Commenting on the appointment, KTB’s CEO June Chepkemei, said, “India continues to be vital for Kenya. BRANDit’s expertise, trade relations, and deep understanding of the Indian tourism landscape make them an ideal partner as our Market Development Representative. We are confident that the collaboration will drive greater engagement and interest, further solidifying Kenya’s position as a must-visit destination.” As the appointed representative, BRANDit will focus on fostering strategic collaborations and pivottravellers towards new segments and routes. Lubaina Sheerazi, CEO & Co-founder, BRANDit, said, “Kenya has always been special for us. Our goal is to establish it as a year-round destination beyond the Great Migration season and promote it in a more holistic, sustainable manner. We have devised a plan that would bring a fresh perspective to how Indians should explore Kenya.” With extensive representation expertise and a tailored roadmap for charting Kenya’s success story in India, BRANDit is all set to strategically promote unforgettable leisure, nature, adventure, and luxury experiences.

Enhancing Business Trips with “Transit by Encalm: Nap and Shower” in Hyderabad By Vikas Sharma, CEO – Encalm Hospitality As global travel resumes and business professionals are back on the move, a new trend is reshaping the travel industry—bleisure. This blend of business and leisure travel allows professionals to balance productivity with relaxation, transforming work trips into more fulfilling and enjoyable experiences. As bleisure travel gains momentum, several countries have started offering work + vacation visas to attract professionals looking for an extended stay. Countries like Barbados, Estonia, and Portugal are leading this trend with special visas that allow travelers to work remotely while exploring the local culture and Australia seems to have just joined the wagon too! This means you can conduct business meetings in the morning and enjoy a sunset on the beach by evening—perfect for those embracing the bleisure lifestyle! The modern professional no longer sees business travel as just a means to attend meetings and conferences. With bleisure travel on the rise, business trips are now an opportunity to explore new cities, unwind after work commitments, and even extend stays for personal enjoyment. According to recent industry reports, more than 60% of business travelers now seek out ways to combine work with leisure, making bleisure a defining feature of the corporate travel landscape. As bleisure travel grows in popularity, the need for services that cater to both aspects of the journey has become more important than ever. In Hyderabad, our Transit by Encalm: Nap and Shower services are leading the charge in enhancing the bleisure experience for business travelers.Millennials are driving the bleisure trend. They prioritize work-life balance and see business trips as an opportunity to explore new places. They tend to extend business trips to enjoy a city’s culture, food, and experiences. Hyderabad, a thriving metropolis known for its technology sector and historic landmarks, is a top destination for business travelers in India. While the city offers a range of cultural attractions and vibrant dining options, our Transit by Encalm: Nap and Shower services cater to the immediate needs of professionals by providing a space to relax and recharge in the middle of their demanding schedules. We offer private, comfortable spaces where travelers can take a short nap or refresh with a rejuvenating spa or a quick shower. Whether they have just arrived after a long-haul flight or are preparing for a day filled with meetings, our services ensure they feel rested, alert, and ready to tackle their tasks. Companies have found that offering opportunities for bleisure travel boosts employee satisfaction and morale. It allows professionals to refresh mentally and physically, making them more productive during their work commitments. By providing convenient and efficient facilities, we allow business travelers to maximize their time in Hyderabad without sacrificing their well-being. Our facilities are strategically located in key transit areas, making it easy for travelers to access them. A quick nap or shower can make all the difference in maintaining mental sharpness and physical energy, setting travelers up for a productive day ahead. As the concept of bleisure continues to shape the travel industry, services like *”Transit by Encalm: Nap and Shower”* are becoming essential for today’s business traveler. Hyderabad’s growing reputation as a business hub, combined with our focus on traveler well-being, makes the city an ideal destination for bleisure travelers who want to stay productive while enjoying a touch of leisure. In a world where the lines between work and leisure are increasingly blurred, our services help elevate the bleisure experience, ensuring every business trip is as refreshing as it is successful. With a focus on convenience, comfort, and quality, *”Transit by Encalm- Nap and Shower”* Is guaranteed to transform short breaks into moments of genuine relaxation, enhancing the overall bleisure experience and raising the standard of business travel in Hyderabad. (The writer brings over 25 years of experience in the hospitality industry with his visionary leadership has been instrumental in positioning Encalm as a leader in airport hospitality across India.)

Singapore, 28th October 2024: Sentosa Development Corporation (SDC) and STIC Travel Group (STIC) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance Sentosa’s standing as a sustainable destination in the Indian market. This one-year partnership will seek to create innovative educational experiences targeted at students in India, highlighting Sentosa’s sustainable practices and diverse ecosystems. The MoU signifies a joint effort to design immersive learning experiences that utilise Sentosa’s unique environment as a living classroom to foster a deeper understanding of the importance of sustainability. These programmes will emphasise key concepts such as the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals, carbon footprint reduction and biodiversity conservation. This partnership builds upon STIC’s broader efforts to boost educational tourism in Singapore by offering Indian students an opportunity to explore Singapore’s heritage, sustainable development initiatives and interactive learning experiences. CREATING AN IMMERSIVE SUSTAINABILITY ADVENTURE Central to this partnership is the launch of the “Unchartered Sentosa” tour designed to inspire students to become advocates for positive environmental change in their own communities. Slated to roll out in November 2024, Unchartered Sentosa offers Indian students a hands-on exploration of sustainability principles through a diverse range of activities: ● Intertidal exploration of the Southern Shores to learn about marine conservation and coastal ecology ● Guided nature walks along Serapong and Imbiah Trail to discover native flora and fauna in Sentosa ● Amazing Race adventure on Sentosa and St John’s Island to educate participants on the importance and relevance of responsible consumption ● Interactive workshops that equip participants with ocean survival skills at Lazarus Island ● Visits to Sentosa’s sustainable attractions such as the Cable Car and Skyline Luge ● Eco Tour of Siloso Beach Resort demonstrating real-world applications of sustainable design and green technology “Our partnership with SDC aligns perfectly with STIC’s mission to offer innovative and meaningful travel experiences,” commented Isha Goyal, CEO, STIC Travel Group. “By combining our expertise in educational tourism with Sentosa’s world-class sustainable practices, we’re creating a truly distinct offering for Indian students. This initiative not only enhances their global perspective but also equips them with practical knowledge about sustainability that they can bring back to their communities.” ESTABLISHING SENTOSA AS AN EDUCATIONAL HUB FOR SUSTAINABILITY The MoU is set to strengthen Sentosa’s positioning as a sustainable destination for leisure, business and education. As the first island destination in Asia to be conferred the Global Sustainable Tourism Council – For Destinations certificate, Sentosa is committed to creating robust eco-conscious tourism experiences. SDC’s comprehensive sustainability approach, integrates eco-friendly practices across all visitor touchpoints – leisure activities, accommodation, transport and dining – minimising environmental impact while engaging guests in sustainable initiatives throughout their Sentosa journey. “This partnership with STIC represents a significant milestone in our ongoing efforts to promote sustainable tourism through education, particularly in this growing segment,” said Thien Kwee Eng, Chief Executive Officer, SDC. “By leveraging Sentosa’s ecological diversity, we’re creating a unique platform for students to gain hands-on experience in environmental stewardship. We look forward to creating unique Sentosa-based itineraries and experiences with STIC that showcase Sentosa’s commitment to sustainability and provide invaluable educational opportunities for students.” This is expected to boost tourism arrivals from India, Sentosa’s top source market, particularly in the educational travel segment. By offering immersive sustainability-focused experiences, the partnership aims to encourage longer and more meaningful stays on the island. MOU Signing Ceremony The MOU was signed at ITB Asia 2024. Images:Sentosa Development Corporation