Boosting tourism in Northeast: The transformation of Guwahati Airport into a hub

 The transformation of Guwahati Airport into a hub and the development of airports across the Northeast will act as catalysts for trade and tourism growth in the region. It will attract international players and investment, paving the way for the establishment of world-class hotels and hospitality services across the Northeast. The influx of tourists and investment will stimulate the local economy, creating job opportunities and fostering sustainable development.

By Rahul Rai
The Northeast region of India has always possessed immense potential as a tourist destination, with its breath-taking natural beauty, vibrant folk culture, and rich artistic heritage. However, this potential has often remained untapped due to a lack of infrastructure and connectivity.
Fortunately, with the recent development and expansion of Guwahati Airport, this is all set to change. The proposed transformation of Guwahati Airport into a regional hub will not only boost tourism in the city but also have a significant impact on the entire Northeast region.
The government has been actively promoting the Northeast as a tourist destination, recognising its unique offerings and economic potential.
Now, with private players like Adani Airport Holdings Limited (AAHL).
What we can expect is the proliferation of hotels across all star categories. The influx of travellers, both domestic and international, will create a surge in demand for accommodation options that cater to varying budgets and preferences. This presents an opportunity for the hospitality industry to flourish, with hotels springing up in all categories, ranging from budget-friendly options to luxurious five-star establishments.
Additionally, the development of Guwahati Airport as a hub will attract international players who have long overlooked the Northeast on their expansion maps. Their entry into the region will not only introduce renowned hotel brands but also bring in their expertise and global standards of service. This infusion of international players will give the One of the major advantages of Guwahati Airport becoming a hub is the improved connectivity it will bring. The development of roads and flyovers, along with enhanced air travel options, will facilitate easy and convenient travel within and between all the Northeastern states. This increased connectivity will be a game-changer for discerning travellers who have long been interested in visiting the region but were deterred by the lack of infrastructure. With improved accessibility, planning a vacation in the North East will no longer be a challenge.

In a recent conference held at Guwahati Airport, the focus was on promoting tourism in the Northeast. The event was attended by key stakeholders, including Assam Tourism Minister Jayanta Mallabaruah,
AAHL officials, airline services representatives, and dignitaries from regional tourist agencies. During the conference, Minister Mallabaruah emphasised the positive impact of air travel on cultural exchange and the tourism industry, which is a major driver of economic growth in Assam.
Furthermore, AAHL presented an ambitious roadmap to transform Guwahati Airport into a sophisticated and developed facility, with the aim of establishing it as a regional hub.
The significance of this development extends beyond Guwahati and Assam. The Union Home Minister, Amit Shah, has also recognised the immense potential of the North East, stating that it can become a major centre of world tourism and a favourite destination for both business and leisure travellers.
The government's focus on enhancing connectivity in the region, of airports across the Northeast will act as catalysts for trade and tourism growth in the region. It will provide opportunities for local produce, such as the world-famous orchids of Arunachal Pradesh, to reach markets across India in a matter of hours. Additionally, the influx of tourists and investments will stimulate the local economy, creating job opportunities and fostering sustainable development.
The development of Guwahati Airport into a regional hub will also attract the attention of international players in the tourism industry.
Previously, the Northeast was often overlooked on their expansion maps due to the lack of infrastructure. However, with the improved connectivity and facilities offered by the transformed airport, these players will now consider the region as a promising destination. This
influx of international investments and collaborations will not only elevate the tourism sector but also have a ripple effect on other industries, including hospitality, transportation, and local businesses.
It is essential to acknowledge the efforts of the government, private players like AAHL, and various stakeholders in realizing the potential of the Northeast as a tourism hub. Their collaborative approach and vision for development have laid the foundation for the region's transformation.
However, it is crucial to ensure that this development is sustainable, mindful of environmental conservation, and respectful of the unique cultural heritage of the Northeast.

https://www.rehanshienterprises.com/news/6469/Boosting-tourism-in-Northeast-The-transformation-of-Guwahati-Airport-into-a-hub

Finland introduces world’s first phone-free tourist island, Ulko-Tammio

 Those travelling to the island of Ulko-Tammio, located in the Eastern Gulf of Finland National Park, will be asked to keep their phones in their pockets this summer. The aim is to encourage holidaymakers to switch off their smart devices, take a break from social media and enjoy nature. Ulko-Tammio is believed to be the world’s first phone-free tourist island.

The Eastern Gulf of Finland boasts plenty of beautiful islands awaiting explorers. Rugged islands, lush swimming spots and charming coastal villages are all characterised by nature, peace and the Baltic Sea.

“The island of Ulko-Tammio, which is located off the coast of Hamina, will be a phone-free area this summer. We want to urge holidaymakers to switch off their smart devices and to stop and genuinely enjoy the islands,” explained Mats Selin, an expert in island tourism at Visit Kotka-Hamina.

The campaign is hoped to encourage people to take a break from social media and smart devices outside the island, too. The staff of Parks & Wildlife Finland, the company which manages the island, are also excited about the campaign.

“We encourage visitors to put their phones away voluntarily and to focus their senses on nature rather than on their phones. This is a great initiative that could be implemented in other nature and recreational destinations, too,” said Joel Heino, Manager, Outdoor Recreation and Visitor Management at Parks & Wildlife Finland.

Summer is the high season of digital fasting
Technology is part of our everyday lives, and many people find it difficult to put their phone down even on holiday. Sharing your holiday activities on social media might feel more important than simply enjoying the moment. We take our smartphones with us everywhere, so many people are always within reach and spend any idle moments they have scrolling through their social media feed.

“People are not meant to be glued to screens all the time. Even a short digital fast can be useful and improve our well-being and help relieve symptoms of anxiety and depression,” said Terhi Mustonen, psychologist and Program Manager of the Limitless Gaming and Limitless Social Media programmes at the Sosped Foundation..

Summer holidays are a fantastic opportunity to take a break from technology and to enjoy genuine experiences, and Ulko-Tammio is an ideal phone-free island. Located far from the mainland, the island boasts interesting history, nature, birds – along with a birdwatching tower – and a cabin maintained by Parks & Wildlife Finland.

“Switching off your phone, exploring nature and meeting people face to face are bound to boost your mood and well-being. We spend countless hours scrolling our social media feeds, so taking a short break from them means you have more time for new experiences. I’d like to see more initiatives like this that promote digital fasting,” said Sari Castrén, psychologist and Research Manager at the Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare.

Interest in the Eastern Gulf of Finland is on the rise
The Eastern Gulf of Finland boasts a 30-nautical-mile-wide national park, where the island of Ulko-Tammio is located.

“The eastern side of the Gulf of Finland is home to a unique group of islands you won’t find elsewhere. According to our research, interest in the islands of the Eastern Gulf of Finland is also on the rise among Finnish tourists looking for a nearcation destination”, Selin explains.

Participation in digital fasting is voluntary, and the island is covered by a functioning mobile network.

https://www.rehanshienterprises.com/news/6474/Finland-introduces-world-s-first-phone-free-tourist-island-Ulko-Tammio

Air India Finalizes Order for Up to 290 Boeing Single-Aisle and Widebody Jets

 Boeing and Air India have announced that they have finalized an order for up to 290 new Boeing jets and expanded services. At the 2023 Paris Air Show, the companies held a signing ceremony to celebrate the historic purchase of Boeing’s market-leading single-aisle and widebody jets to renew and expand Air India’s fleet.

The order, which includes 190 737 MAXs, 20 787 Dreamliners and 10 777X jets with options for 50 737 MAXs and 20 787 Dreamliners, is Boeing’s largest order in South Asia and highlights its 90-year partnership with Air India.

A comprehensive set of aviation services will also enable Air India to sustainably expand its operations in South Asia’s rapidly growing aviation market. Over the next 20 years, South Asia is expected to more than triple its in-service fleet from 700 to 2,300 airplanes to meet passenger demand. The companies announced in February that Air India had selected these Boeing models to serve its strategy for sustainable growth.

https://www.rehanshienterprises.com/news/6478/Air-India-Finalizes-Order-for-Up-to-290-Boeing-Single-Aisle-and-Widebody-Jets

Kerala Tourism to launch app for solo women travellers

 In a bid to woo female solo travellers, Kerala Tourism has decided to introduce an app catering to the needs of women travelling alone and in groups of their own. This mobile application will feature women-friendly tourism packages, women tourist operators and guides. All this makes travelling in the state for women easy, comfortable and -free.

The government has asked the State Responsible Tourism Mission (RT Mission), the nodal agency for implementing the ‘Women-Friendly Tourism’ project, to come up with content for the same. This shall have all the location-specific information along with the correct images of the place.
The release shared by Tourism Minister PA Mohamed Riyas mentioned that they wish to make “conducive ambience for women tourists" in Kerala.
“We are living in a world where it has become a trend for women to travel to far off places in groups of their own or individually. The app on women-friendly tourism project will make the visit to Kerala more pleasant and hassle-free for women," he said.
The initiative was started in October 2022, along the UN Women’s ‘Gender Inclusive Tourism’ concept. The department is also planning to come up with a range of women-friendly tourism products and packages as well.

The state tourism department aims at participation of 1.5 lakh women from the state as the project has the support of several organisations including UN Women. As per the release, the target is to create 10,000 women ventures and 30,000 jobs in the tourism sector.
The mobile app will have all the details of women-friendly resorts, hotels, women enterprises, recognised tour operators, women tour operators, travel agencies, homestays and women tour guides. The department also mentioned that the app will feature women-led handicraft and souvenirs.

https://www.rehanshienterprises.com/news/6454/Kerala-Tourism-to-launch-app-for-solo-women-travellers

Kolkata Bangkok Highway likely to open in coming 4 years; details inside

 This is definitely the god of all road trips in Asia! Yes, you read that right. Very soon, Bangkok will be connected with Kolkata by road! The two prominent cities in Asia will be connected via Kolkata-Bangkok highway and will enhance links between India and Thailand.

The trilateral highway, as a part of the BIMSTEC project, could be completed within the next three to four years. The news was shared during a business conclave by the Indian Chamber of Commerce (ICC) and the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Tuesday.

Here are some important facts:
1) This road will start from Bangkok and go through prominent cities such as Sukhothai and Mae Sot in Thailand, Yangon, Mandalay, Kalewa, and Tamu in Myanmar, before reaching India.
2) In India, the highway will pass through Moreh, Kohima, Guwahati, Srirampur and Siliguri before reaching Kolkata.
3) The highway will cover a total distance of over 2800 km.
4) The longest stretch would be in India and the smallest would be in Thailand.
5) A part of the highway in Thailand is already complete.
6) The Tamu to Kalewa road of this highway will cost nearly US$ 27.28 million.
With this in the offing, get ready for the most exciting road trip in this part of the world very soon!

https://www.rehanshienterprises.com/news/6456/Kolkata-Bangkok-Highway-likely-to-open-in-coming-4-years-details-inside

Rajasthan Tiger Reserves to be closed every Wednesday from July 1

 Tourism activities in all four tiger reserves in Rajasthan will remain closed every Wednesday from July 1, officials said.

The one-day week-off was announced on the basis of an order by the National Tiger Conservation Authority, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests and Chief Wildlife Warden Arindam Tomar said. “It will be implemented in all the four tiger reserves of the state from July 1,” Tomar said.

He also said that tourists who had made any advanced bookings in any of the tiger reserves for any Wednesday after July 1 will be given a refund.

Ranthambore Tiger Reserve (Sawai Madhopur), Sariska Tiger Reserve (Alwar), Mukundra Tiger Reserve (Kota) and Ramgarh Vishdhari Tiger Reserve (Bundi) are the four tiger reserves in the state.

https://www.rehanshienterprises.com/news/6457/Rajasthan-Tiger-Reserves-to-be-closed-every-Wednesday-from-July-1

Narkanda in Himachal Pradesh becomes a hotspot for tourists as temperature rises in plains

 Tourists from all corners of India are being enticed by the delightful weather conditions in the charming hill resort of Narkanda in northern India.

The pleasant weather conditions in the north Indian hill resort Narkanda are drawing the attention of tourists across India. The tourists are rushing to the outskirts and they are not preferring to stay in crowded places like Shimla. The Hotels and travel business units are getting advance bookings for the month of June and July.

"This June in comparison to the last June we have tourist arrival more than the previous year, we have tourists coming in from West Bengal, Gurugram, Delhi, Chandigarh and Mumbai also. Due to natural beauty, tourists prefer the hills away from cities. We have advance bookings coming in, we have trekking activities and have the Hatu temple and Tanuja areas. We have special discount offers to give regards to the senior citizens," said Suresh Manager, Manager Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation.

Tourists are preferring to stay away from crowded places in the state. "In comparison to Delhi, we have a pleasant atmosphere here, the temperature is low, and the environment is enjoyable and relaxing. Keeping in mind all these things we have decided to stay here at Narkanda. In Shimla there is a rush so we decided to move forward. The air is pure and it is the right place to spend Holidays, This is a beautiful place," said Suresh a tourist from Delhi.

Another tourist said that it is a beautiful place. It is clean and there is no rush, unlike other places. "This is a beautiful place, it is clean, and there is no rush as it is in other places, we come to the hills during the holidays. You should come to the hills during the summer It is nice to be here at Narkanda, It is very hot in Delhi and it is pleasant here," said Anita, Another tourist from Delhi.

Thousands of tourists annually visit the Hill state. As per data available with the tourism department of Himachal Pradesh during the year 2019 nearly 17,20,000 tourists including nearly 4,00,000 foreign tourists visited the state with a jump of nearly 5 per cent in comparison to the year 2018.

During the year 2021, a total of 56,37,102 tourists visited India. This year till now nearly 80 Lakh tourists have arrived in the state. An economy of over 11,000 crore is generated in the state of Himachal Pradesh in the tourism sector and it is considered a backbone for the economy in the state which contributes to 7.3 per cent in the state GDP.

https://www.rehanshienterprises.com/news/6459/Narkanda-in-Himachal-Pradesh-becomes-a-hotspot-for-tourists-as-temperature-rises-in-plains

Coming soon: Ropeway to Lord Hanuman’s birth place Anjaneri Hills in Nashik

 As per the latest development, the Centre has started the process to build an ambitious 6-km ropeway to the Anjaneri hills in Nashik, which is believed to be the birthplace of Lord Hanuman. Reportedly, the project will see an investment worth INR 377 crore, and will likely become operational in the next two years from the Brahmagiri trekking point to Anjaneri hills. Currently, it’s a steep road, and takes nearly two to three hours to cover on foot.

As per the reports, Anjaneri Hills will soon have a ropeway that will increase connectivity to the pilgrim site. As of now, pilgrims have to climb three mountains to reach the temple, which is nestled at a height of more than 4,200 ft. However, once the ropeway, measuring 5.7 km in length, comes up across the three mountains, the journey to the top will be reduced to just a few minutes.

Reports add that over the next two years, the Centre will build this ropeway, which will connect the trekking point, Brahmagiri to Anjaneri Hills. Currently, to climb this steep road, one needs a whopping two to three hours to cover by walking.

Similarly, a 12-km ropeway project is also planned in Tamil Nadu from Palani to Kodaikanal, which is a popular hill station. Then there is another 7-km ropeway to the Kodachadri hills in Karnataka’s Udupi district, and an over 3-km one to the Bijli Mahadev Temple in Kullu, Himachal Pradesh. Also, reports add that another ropeway will be built to the Srisailam temple in Andhra Pradesh across the Krishna river from Eegalapenta in Telangana.

https://www.rehanshienterprises.com/news/6461

The World’s Biggest Wavepool Is Coming to Abu Dhabi

 A new project from Modon Properties has been announced, located on Abu Dhabi’s Hudayriyat Island, and featuring what they’re calling the world’s “largest man-made wave pool.”

“Set to open by the end of 2023, Surf Abu Dhabi will be the biggest and most advanced artificial wave facility in the world. Designed in partnership with Kelly Slater Wave Co., the landmark destination will offer a high-performance surfing experience, featuring the world’s longest ride, biggest barrel, and largest man-made wave pool. Underscoring Abu Dhabi’s sporting and leisure credentials, the exclusive surfing complex seeks to attract everyone from beginners to pro-surfers. Surf Abu Dhabi will provide an ideal location to host major international events and will play a major role in developing the surfing community locally, regionally, and globally.”

Specifics on just how big the pool will be, and the size of the waves it will be able to produce, are still scarce. However, per a report from TimeOut, the pool will span 51 million square meters. The Surf Ranch in Lemoore, CA is reportedly 2,300 feet long – that’s only 700 meters.

So, it’s bigger. Much bigger. You do the maths.

https://www.rehanshienterprises.com/news/6452

Jazeera Airways increases flight frequency from Bengaluru and Hyderabad

 Jazeera Airways, Kuwait’s leading low-cost airline recently increased the frequency of its direct from Bangalore and Hyderabad. The airline now operates 4 flights per week from Bengaluru, and 6 flights per week from Hyderabad. Previously the airline operated two and three flights a week to these popular destinations.

Having started its India operations with Hyderabad in October 2017, Jazeera Airways has grown steadily in the last five years to serve six destinations in India. The airline currently operates 24 direct services to Kuwait and beyond from India.

For the summer season this year, Jazeera Airways has introduced two new European destinations – Belgrade in Serbia and Tirana in Albania and will also resume flights to Prague, Czech Republic and Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina. The airline also recently launched flights to Larnaca in Cyprus, Sphinx in Egypt, Tivat in Montenegro and Shiraz in Iran while doubling the frequency of flights to Riyadh. With over 66 destinations, including Tblisi, Istanbul, Baku and Cairo, Jazeera Airways continues to be a popular choice for travellers from India.

By operating its own airport terminal, Jazeera Terminal 5 or T5, Jazeera makes transiting through Kuwait both comfortable and convenient.

https://www.rehanshienterprises.com/news/6451

Delhi-Leh: Country’s highest altitude bus service is back on the road

 As we are in the middle of the summer season, there’s good news when it comes to travel. After a long winter and being closed for almost nine months, India’s longest and highest altitude bus service is back. This bus service connects Delhi with Leh via Manali in Himachal Pradesh. The service has resumed after nine long months.

Every winter, with heavy snowfall, the road to Leh via Manali stays closed for all tourism purposes. This road goes through Keylong in Lahaul-Spiti district.
The distance covered on this route is approximately 1026 km. If reports are to go by, the one-way fare for this route is INR 1,736 per person. The entire journey takes around 30 hours to complete.

You will be onboard the special state-run Himachal Road Transport Corp (HRTC) bus, which leaves Delhi at 3:45 pm.

The bus journey goes through four important mountain passes – Rohtang Pass (13,050 feet), Baralacha Pass (16,020 feet), Lachungla Pass (16,620 feet) and Tanglangla Pass (17,480 feet). For those who want to experience this journey, booking between Delhi and Keylong can be done online. The ticket for the further journey to Leh will have to be booked at the HRTC counter in Keylong.

The journey is definitely one of the longest in the country, and also one of the most scenic too. The high passes, the cold desert landscape of Lahaul-Spiti, and the constant company of the mountains, these are the things you should definitely experience.

https://www.rehanshienterprises.com/news/6449/Delhi-Leh-Country-s-highest-altitude-bus-service-is-back-on-the-road

Etihad Airways is set to increase its weekly flight frequency between Abu Dhabi and Kochi

 Etihad Airways, the national airline of the UAE, is set to increase its weekly flight frequency between Abu Dhabi (AUH) and Kochi (COK) by introducing a new daily Airbus A320 service.

Starting October 29, 2023, the additional daily service will boost Abu Dhabi–Kochi to 20 flights per week, offering leisure and business travellers greater flexibility and better connectivity to one of South India’s most vibrant cities.

“In response to strong travel demand, Etihad is thrilled to offer an additional service to Kochi that will bring our operation up to nearly three flights a day,” said Arik De, Chief Revenue Officer.

“This is a testament to the importance of the India market for Etihad Airways and the focus we are putting on growing our network to provide more convenience and choice to our guests.”

As well as improving access to the UAE, the flights will also enhance connectivity between India and the United States via Abu Dhabi, where travellers can take advantage of a US Preclearance facility for a seamless arrival into the States

The only one of its kind in the Middle East, the facility allows passengers bound for the United States to process all immigration, customs and agriculture inspections in Abu Dhabi before they board their flight, avoiding immigration and queues on arrival.

In addition to boosting flights to Kochi, the airline’s winter flight schedule will see Etihad Airways flying to seven other destinations in India including Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Mumbai, Kolkata, Delhi, Hyderabad and Chennai.

https://www.rehanshienterprises.com/news/6450

Travelling to Bhutan can become cheaper if you stay longer there

 Bhutan is famed for its picturesque landscapes, monasteries, and numerous sightseeing options that it’s not difficult to understand why it’s one of the sought-after destinations for travellers.

However, the pandemic hit its tourism industry to such a great extent that Bhutan had to come up with some incentives to encourage travellers to visit the country until the end of 2024.

As reported earlier, Bhutan announced changes to its Sustainable Development Fee which made headlines after it jumped from $65 to $200 a day when the country reopened its borders in September.
Now, the tourism industry has come up with an incentive, which was announced last week, wherein travellers can avoid paying some of Bhutan’s daily tourism fees as long as they stay there for at least five nights. Also, the longer you stay, the more you can save.
As per an announcement on Bhutan’s Department of Tourism website, travellers who pay the SDF for the first four days, can enjoy staying an additional four days without paying the fee.
Likewise, travellers who pay the fee for the first seven days, will get to stay an additional seven days without paying for the second week, whereas those paying for 12 days, will be exempt from paying it for 18 days thereafter.

Reports have it that the changes will come into effect from June 1, which are meant to encourage vacationers to stay longer.
Bhutan’s Department of Immigration has even gone ahead to come up with a website where travellers can calculate potential savings under the different incentive programs.
Also, those who have already booked trips to Bhutan, they can take advantage of the new incentives by cancelling their visas and reapplying for a new one, as per the announcement.

https://www.rehanshienterprises.com/news/6429/Travelling-to-Bhutan-can-become-cheaper-if-you-stay-longer-there