Sweden on track to become Europe’s first ‘smoke free’ country

 Sweden, which has the lowest rate of smoking in the Europe Union, is close to declaring itself ‘smoke free,’ as it has less than 5% daily smokers in the population.

Many experts are of the view that this credit goes to decades of anti-smoking campaigns and legislation. Now, since it now has less than 5% daily smokers, it’s said that the said number is well within reach.
If we go by the data from the Public Health Agency of Sweden, the smoking rate has actually continued to fall since then, reaching 5.6% last year.
Reports further add that the risks of smoking appear well understood among health-conscious Swedes, including younger generations. 20 years ago, around 20% of the population were smokers, which was also a low rate globally during that time. Since then, a number of measures have been put into place to discourage smoking, including bans on smoking in restaurants.

Sweden has even gone out further to stamp out cigarettes, and argued that it helped in a range of health benefits, including a relatively low rate of lung cancer. Sweden even levied taxes on cigarettes to curb the practice and put strict restrictions into place on the marketing of these products, which have played a remarkable role too.

Also, like in most of Europe, smoking isn't allowed inside restaurants and bars, but Sweden has banned smoking even in outdoor seating areas since 2019.
Further, WHO attributes Sweden's declining smoking rate to a combination of tobacco control measures, including advertising bans, information campaigns, and ‘cessation support’ for those wishing to quit tobacco.

https://www.rehanshienterprises.com/news/6409/Sweden-on-track-to-become-Europe-s-first-smoke-free-country

Beyond Shimla and Manali: India's unexplored hill stations, ideal for escaping the summer heat and tourist flocks

 Whether you're an adventure seeker, nature lover, or looking for a peaceful escape, these hidden gems will provide you with unforgettable memories.

India, known for its diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage, is home to numerous captivating hill stations that offer respite from the scorching summer heat and bustling tourist hubs. While popular destinations like Shimla and Manali often attract large crowds, there are several hidden gems tucked away in the country's mountains that remain unexplored by many travellers. Check out some of India's lesser-known hill stations, where you can immerse yourself in the tranquillity of nature and escape the tourist flocks.

Tirthan Valley, Himachal Pradesh: Nestled in the serene Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh, Tirthan Valley is a secluded paradise that offers a perfect blend of breathtaking scenery and tranquillity. With its crystal-clear river, dense forests, and snow-capped peaks, this unexplored gem provides ample opportunities for trekking, angling, and birdwatching.

Chaukori, Uttarakhand: Located amidst the mighty Himalayas, Chaukori in Uttarakhand is a hidden treasure that boasts panoramic views of the surrounding peaks, including Nanda Devi and Panchachuli. This lesser-known hill station offers a pleasant climate and lush tea gardens, making it an ideal retreat for nature lovers and those seeking solitude. Take leisurely walks, sip aromatic tea, and soak in the enchanting vistas of Chaukori.

Dzükou Valley, Nagaland: Tucked away in the northeastern state of Nagaland, Dzükou Valley is a hidden paradise that showcases nature's unmatched beauty. The valley is famous for its vibrant rhododendron flowers, gushing streams, and pristine trekking trails. Unwind amidst the captivating landscapes, camp under a starry sky, and experience the untouched charm of Dzükou Valley.

Yelagiri, Tamil Nadu: Escape the scorching heat of Tamil Nadu by visiting Yelagiri, a lesser-explored hill station nestled in the Eastern Ghats. Surrounded by verdant hills, lush orchards, and picturesque lakes, Yelagiri offers a serene environment and pleasant weather throughout the year. Embark on nature walks, go boating in the Punganur Lake, and relish the tranquility of this hidden gem.

Pelling, Sikkim: Located in the northeastern state of Sikkim, Pelling is a lesser-known hill station that provides awe-inspiring views of the mighty Kanchenjunga, the world's third-highest peak. Pelling offers a peaceful escape from the crowded tourist destinations in the region. Explore ancient monasteries, trek through scenic trails, and witness breathtaking sunrise views over the Himalayas from Pelling.

Pachmarhi, Madhya Pradesh: Tucked away in the heart of Madhya Pradesh, India, lies a hidden gem known as Pachmarhi. Surrounded by lush green forests, cascading waterfalls, and ancient caves, Pachmarhi is a mesmerizing hill station that often goes unnoticed by many travellers. In this article, we invite you to explore the enchanting beauty and tranquillity of Pachmarhi, where nature's wonders unfold at every step.

Chopta, Uttarakhand: Often referred to as the "Mini Switzerland of India," Chopta is a picturesque hill station tucked away in Uttarakhand. Surrounded by dense forests and towering peaks, including the majestic Nanda Devi and Chaukhamba, Chopta offers a peaceful atmosphere and serves as the base for the popular trek to Tungnath, the highest Shiva temple in the world.

Ziro, Arunachal Pradesh: Tucked away in the eastern Himalayas of Arunachal Pradesh, Ziro is a hidden valley known for its scenic beauty, rice fields, and unique indigenous culture. The valley is home to the Apatani tribe and offers a glimpse into their traditional way of life. Enjoy the panoramic views of the mountains, take part in the vibrant Ziro Music Festival, and explore the rich biodiversity of the region.

Chikhaldara, Maharashtra: Nestled in the Satpura Range of Maharashtra, Chikhaldara is a lesser-known hill station famous for its misty valleys, cascading waterfalls, and wildlife-rich forests. It is the only coffee-growing area in the state and offers a pleasant climate throughout the year. Visit the beautiful Bhimkund Waterfall, go on a wildlife safari in the Melghat Tiger Reserve, and enjoy the serene beauty of Chikhaldara.

https://www.rehanshienterprises.com/news/6411

IndiGo to expand international connectivity with 6 new destinations and 174 new weekly flights

 IndiGo is taking a massive step in its international expansion strategy with the addition of six new destinations across Asia, and Africa. It will connect Nairobi, Kenya and Jakarta, Indonesia, with direct flights from Mumbai in late July / early August. Delhi will get connected in August to Tbilisi, Georgia (3x) and Baku, Azerbaijan (4x) and in September to Tashkent, Uzbekistan (4x), and Almaty, Kazakhstan (3x). IndiGo is therefore adding an impressive 174 new weekly international flights between June and September 2023, including new destinations, routes, and frequencies, catering to the rising demand for international travel from, to and via India.

The execution of this large-scale international expansion is an integral part in IndiGo’s strategy of moving Towards New Heights and Across New Frontiers under the aegis of its CEO, Pieter Elbers, who joined the airline ten months ago. This strategic expansion plan will offer an array of super exciting opportunities for customers to travel worldwide on IndiGo.

Along with this expansive launch of new routes, IndiGo will also be resuming operations daily services from Delhi to Hong Kong in August, further enhancing travel options for passengers. This flight was suspended 3 years ago when Covid-19 hit and will now be reinstated. These new flights will unlock remarkable opportunities for both business and leisure travellers seeking seamless connectivity.

Pieter Elbers, CEO, IndiGo said, “We are absolutely excited to embark further on our ambitious international network expansion plans, in line with our commitment to giving wings to the Indian nation. As we steadfastly execute our strategy ‘Towards New Heights and Across New Frontiers’, we are poised to establish unparalleled connections between people and places. The addition of these exciting new destinations, new direct flight routes, enhanced flight frequencies, and strategic codeshare partnerships, will help us expand our footprint across four continents with Africa and Central Asia being penetrated for the first time. With this expansion in our network, we will now be directly touching 32 international destinations (up from 26), next to our 78 domestic destinations.”

Reinforcing stronghold between India and Middle East
IndiGo’s Middle East expansion plans include launching more direct international services bringing the Middle Eastern destinations closer to more Indian cities by connecting Dammam to Lucknow, Chennai, and Kochi; Abu Dhabi to Goa, Lucknow, and Ahmedabad; Ras Al Khaimah to Hyderabad; Bahrain to Kochi and Jeddah to Ahmedabad over the next few months.

Along with this, there will be an array of increased frequencies between Mumbai-Dhaka, in August 2023. These expansions are a testament to IndiGo’s commitment to provide travellers with an extensive choice of destinations and convenient flight schedules.

In addition, IndiGo is also offering direct international connectivity from destinations like Bhubaneshwar and planning for international flights from North Goa Airport. The airline will commence exclusive flights from Bhubaneshwar to Singapore and Bangkok from June 2023.

Expanding reach through codeshare connections
IndiGo has already been strengthening connectivity in Europe and North America through its codeshare connections via Turkish Airlines. IndiGo currently offers connectivity to 33 destinations in Europe via Istanbul. As part of the codeshare partnership with Turkish Airlines, IndiGo will soon be offering connectivity to North America closing final regulatory approvals. The partnership allows passengers to experience hassle-free transfers, access to a vast network, and a seamless travel experience across continents.

https://www.rehanshienterprises.com/news/6390/IndiGo-to-expand-international-connectivity-with-6-new-destinations-and-174-new-weekly-flights

Etihad Airways named Environmental Airline of the Year 2023

 Etihad Airways, the national airline of the UAE, has been named Environmental Airline of the Year 2023 for the second year running in the prestigious Airline Ratings awards.

The awards, which acknowledge the best of the aviation industry, and ranks airlines on their innovation, route networks and safety score against a strict assessment criteria, recognised Etihad for its commitment to sustainable aviation through innovation and collaboration, along with its dedication to drive change and results from Abu Dhabi, or the world.

As well as being crowned Environmental Airline of the Year, Etihad took third in Airline Ratings’ ‘Top 10 Airlines’ award, which critiques airlines on comfort, innovation, value and safety across Economy, Business and First Class.

Etihad’s sustainability strategy is focused on achieving emissions reductions through in-sector measures, aligning with industry roadmaps and frameworks, collaborating with UAE industrial ecosystems, and remaining transparent and proactive regarding sustainability issues within the aviation industry.

In its most recent sustainability report released in May 2023, Etihad announced it had achieved a 26% reduction in CO2 emissions per Revenue Tonne Kilometre (RTK). This achievement is underpinned by Etihad’s flagship sustainability initiatives, including the Greenliner programme which uses the airline’s fleet of Boeing 787 Dreamliners as flying test-beds, as well as the Sustainable50 A350-1000.

Antonoaldo Neves, Group Chief Executive Officer, Etihad Aviation Group, said: “We take great pride in reducing our CO2 RTK by 26 percent. This achievement is a testament to the dedication and efforts of our team to drive our sustainability agenda and we thank them for their contributions. I am also very proud of our overall achievements, which go beyond delivering direct Co2 reductions but explore innovative solutions to the broader challenges facing aviation sustainability, as you can see in our annual report.”
Airlineratings.com Editor-in-Chief Geoffrey Thomas, said: “Etihad Airways has demonstrated its leadership in the push for sustainable flight with its Greenliner Boeing 787 program and last year with its Sustainability50, A350 aircraft. In every aspect, Etihad Airways staff and management are committed to reducing the airline’s CO2 footprint and it shows. The rallying phrase is a million things count in reducing emissions and thus the focus is all-consuming. The airline’s Sustainability Report 2021-2022 demonstrates the potential advancements to be made in sustainable aviation by a wide range of initiatives.”

https://www.rehanshienterprises.com/news/6393/Etihad-Airways-named-Environmental-Airline-of-the-Year-2023

Tourists rush to Himachal hill stations to escape from heat in the plains

As the mercury soars in the plains, tourists are visiting hill stations in Himachal Pradesh where the weather is pleasant. Dharmshala recorded the lowest minimum temperature of 8.4 degrees Celsius in the state. Quite a few people also come to Dharamshala to learn about Buddhism. This city is home to the Dalai Lama and the Tibetan government-in-exile. 

Raghav, a visitor from Delhi said, "The weather was quite high recently. We have come here from plains where it is hot. So we planned to come to the hills in Himachal Pradesh. We are enjoying here as the temperature is around 18 degrees in day time whereas it is above 40 degrees in Rajasthan or some other areas."

Raghav said he is keen to visit Buddhist monasteries to learn about Buddhism. "We are enjoying our trip here".

https://www.rehanshienterprises.com/news/6394/Tourists-rush-to-Himachal-hill-stations-to-escape-from-heat-in-the-plains

Ayodhya prepares to host one lakh tourists a day

 The construction of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya is set to completely transform the holy city into a religious and tourist destination.

Earlier, only small hotels and dharamshalas were visible in the city, but in a few years, luxury five-star hotels have also shown interest in starting operations in the city.

Besides, big hotels, food chains of big brands are also exploring possibilities in Ayodhya and now preparations have started to establish them here.

In the next one to two years, Ayodhya is going to transform completely as the entire surrounding area will be full of temples.
Tourist footfall from all over the world is set to increase once the construction of the grand temple gets complete. Considering this, hotels, restaurants, cinemas as well as shopping complexes are exploring possibilities for themselves.
Many big companies have even bought land for extending their operations here.

If we look at the figures for the years 2021 and 2022, about four crore devotees have come to Ayodhya. After the construction of the temple in 2024, this figure is estimated to reach close to 8 to 10 crores.

The government has even announced special subsidies for dharamshalas to ensure proper accommodation facilities for pilgrims in Ayodhya.

Several luxury hotels are being constructed in Ayodhya. The government has approved about 30 big hotels in the last month.

The local pre-built hotels are also being expanded. Ayodhya’s famous Panchsheel Hotel, where there used to be around 50 rooms, now 50 more rooms are being constructed to make it a 100-room hotel.

In the same way, other hotels in Ayodhya are also enhancing their capacity.

Ayodhya Municipal Commissioner Vishal Singh told IANS that a large number of people will come to Ayodhya as soon as the Ram temple gets open for devotees and their accommodation will also be taken care of. The plan for which has been prepared and is being executed.

According to Singh, a large number of hotels should be built in Ayodhya, for which the tourism department has also made a lot of changes in the tourism policy. The department has exempted hotels from paying development charges.

Building plans of 30 hotels have been approved in the last one to one and a half months. Construction works have also started, which is expected to be completed by December. Along with this, a study has also been done about the already existing dharamshalas and guest houses in Ayodhya. They are being upgraded.

The already existing dharamshalas and guest houses will be renovated, and their special design will also be taken care of so that the pilgrims who come here, would get a better understanding of Ayodhya.

Along with this, there are many ‘Panchayati temples’ (ashrams) which are being renovated so that they can be used by the people in the coming times.

The project for developing homestay has also been started. Under this, whoever has a house with more than five rooms, is being convinced to make those rooms available to the tourists by improving their capacity. From November to December, almost 6000 rooms would be made available for homestay.

“Along with this, we are also making a tent city comprising 50 tents and the tender process for the same has been completed. We have also identified a 150-hectare land to build a bigger tent city on the lines of Banaras. As soon as the construction of the Ram Temple gets completed, the number of devotees coming to Ayodhya will start increasing and it will be the responsibility of the district administration to take special care of pilgrims’ stay, food and safety on their arrival,” the Municipal Commissioner added.

The district administration and the Municipal Corporation are working on a war footing to ensure the timely completion of all the works.

Singh said that efforts are being made to ensure that the pilgrims visiting here would not face any problems with accommodation and at least one lakh pilgrims could stay in the holy city.

https://www.rehanshienterprises.com/news/6396/Ayodhya-prepares-to-host-one-lakh-tourists-a-day

Shimla draws tourists in big number as blistering heat sweeps plains

 Tourist arrival in Shimla has increased and the pleasant weather conditions are expected to bring more in June: Director Tourism department of Himachal Pradesh. The pleasant weather conditions in the north Indian hill town of Himachal Pradesh's Shimla are drawing tourists across India. From January through May this year, 72 lakh tourists have arrived in the region, according to the state authorities.

The Director Tourism department of Himachal Pradesh, Amit Kashyap said that the tourist arrival has increased and the pleasant weather conditions are expected to bring more in the region in the month of June.

"During Pre Covid years we had an annual number of One core 70 Lakh tourists but during the Covid years it was first 32 Lakh and later 57 years. Last year we received 1 Crore 51 Lakh tourists," said Amit Kashyap, "It shows that we had revived tourism in the state with aggressive marketing and other strategies. This year till may end we have received 72 lakh tourists and by June end we are expecting a huge footfall. In the recent weekend we had a good footfall," he added.

https://www.rehanshienterprises.com/news/6399/Shimla-draws-tourists-in-big-number-as-blistering-heat-sweeps-plains

With four runways, Delhi Airport to soon become the world’s largest airport

 The Indian aviation industry is growing at a rapid pace and India has built 74 small and big airports in the past 9 years. Among these, the Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA) in Delhi has managed to grab headlines, with its capacity rising day by day.

Ministry of Civil Aviation Jyotiraditya Scindia has stated that the IGIA can soon become the world's largest airport and, with the ongoing massive expansion of the airport, it will definitely become one of the world’s biggest, even surpassing the Atlanta airport in terms of passenger capacity wise.

The Minister added that at present, the Delhi airport caters to 70 million passengers, which will likely go till 109 million by the end of this year. It is the only Indian airport with three runways, and the fourth one will likely become operational in September.

This will also make it the only airport in India with four runways. There are three terminal buildings in the airport, and the passenger capacity will likely surpass 100 million by the end of 2023.

Revealing more about the aircrafts in India, Mr Scindia added that India will be needing 1200 planes in the next 5 years, stating that aircraft capacity of 400 in 2013 has now grown to 700 today and this number will increase to 1200 in the next 5 years.

He also added that last-mile connectivity is also very important, and that they are focusing more on 20-seater aircraft and other small-size aircraft to connect more secluded areas of the country.

https://www.rehanshienterprises.com/news/6400

Emirates airline has announced free hotel accommodations to all passengers travelling to or stopping over at Dubai for a limited period of time

 Emirates airline has announced free hotel accommodations to all passengers travelling to or stopping over at Dubai for a limited period of time

Do you know you can win a free hotel stay in Dubai? Let’s tell you how.
Emirates airline has announced free hotel accommodations to all passengers travelling to or stopping over at Dubai for a limited period of time. Dubai’s flagship carrier, in its statement, added that the booking period is open from May 22 to June 11, 2023.
If reports are to go by, travellers who purchase an Emirates return ticket in first class or business class to or to stop over in Dubai, would now get a complimentary two-night stay at 25 hours Hotel Dubai One Central. The hotel is centrally located, overlooking the Museum of the Future, and easy access to all major city attractions. Do note that passengers will also get to avail a chauffeur drive service to and from the airport.

The airline will also offer a complimentary one-night stay at Novotel World Trade Centre, Dubai, for all those travelling in premium economy class or economy class. Reports further add that the offer will be valid for all return tickets to Dubai for more than 24 hours for travel dates between May 26 and August 31. This hotel is located within the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre (DWTC).
Do note that you must do the bookings at least 96 hours before arrival through emirates.com, ticket offices, Emirates call centre, or participating travel agents.
The carrier also informed that the customers need to keep a copy of their Emirates boarding pass to make the most of special discounts and offers from flight partners in the city and across the UAE.

https://www.rehanshienterprises.com/news/6389

Digital Kumbh Museum to become centre of attraction during Mahakumbh 2025

 Digital Kumbh Museum to become centre of attraction during Mahakumbh 2025

The Uttar Pradesh government is making extensive preparations for ‘Mahakumbh 2025.’ The Tourism Department is engaged in the development of tourism sites, and the beautification of temples, along with providing public facilities, for the ‘Mahakumbh 2025’, said the state authorities.

In this sequence, the construction of the ‘Digital Kumbh Museum’ is also proposed by the Tourism Department. This digital Kumbh Museum, to be built at a cost of Rs 60 crores, will also serve as an attraction for the devotees coming here.

In addition to showcasing the culture of the country and the state, it will offer insights into the mythological and historical significance of the Kumbh Mela. The tourism department has recently presented this proposal to the chief secretary.

The state officials say that Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s intention is to make the Mahakumbh 2025, to be held in Prayagraj, the most divine and grand event ever. As per his vision, all kinds of civic facilities should be accessible to devotees from all over the country and the world coming to Prayagraj, they added.

In a recent meeting, CM Yogi said that the Kumbh Mela in 2025 will be cherished for a very long time by the devotees and that when they leave, they will extol its virtues. The development work in this area is progressing in line with the goals of the Chief Minister.

According to the proposal, the Digital Kumbh Museum will provide people with a modern Kumbh experience as it will be equipped with facilities such as Heating, Ventilation and Air-Conditioning (HVAC), and audio-video rooms. It will also feature various galleries with spiritual themes, including the Spiritual and Kumbh Mela Interpretation Gallery, Samudra Manthan Gallery, and Akhada Gallery.

The museum will provide facilities like a food plaza and souvenir shop, allowing visitors to purchase literature and products related to the Kumbh Mela. Additionally, there will be facilities such as a Cultural Haat (Akshayavat), a museum, a gallery and theatre (Amrit Kalash), and a guest house.

According to the proposed outline of the Digital Kumbh Museum, the three rivers (Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati) will be displayed using three different colors, based on animated fractal geometry and static graphics will also be used.

Following that, the interactive map of Prayagraj will be presented on a large screen in the Interpretation Gallery, which can be explored through touch interactions. Here, along with the history of Prayagraj, information about the modern city will also be provided.

In the Samudra Manthan Gallery, the epic tale of ‘Samudra Manthan’ will be presented through floor projection. The Akhada Gallery will showcase the Akhada culture prevalent in the country. It will have an interactive wall related to Shankaracharya, describing his journey. In the Temporal City, there will be video walls, while in the ‘Triveni Sangam’ there will be a combination of floor, wall, and ceiling.

Regarding the preparations for MahaKumbh 2025, the Tourism Department has proposed various other development works, including the development and beautification of Bharadwaj Ashram, Dwadash Madhav Mandir, Nagvasuki Mandir, Dashashwamedh Mandir, Manakameshwar Mandir, Alopashankari Mandir, Padilla Mahadev Mandir, temples along the Panchkoshi Parikrama Path, Koteshwar Mahadev, and Kalyani Mandir.

Additionally, there are plans for the beautification and construction of Takshak Tirth, temples in the Karachna area, Akshayavat/Saraswati Koop/Patalpuri Mandir, Hanuman Mandir, a floating jetty, and a restaurant. Other works including facade lights at Rahi Ilawart Hotel, the renovation and beautification of 18 new rooms, including the maintenance and beautification of three entrance gates along the main routes for Triveni Darshan are also part of the proposal.

The estimated cost for all these proposals, including the Digital Kumbh Museum, exceeds Rs 170 crore. In addition, there is an estimated cost of Rs 120 crore for various civil works, and Rs 18 crore for facade lighting-related works.

https://www.rehanshienterprises.com/news/6385

Karnataka Announces Free Bus Travel For Female Passengers From June 1

Karnataka Announces Free Bus Travel For Female Passengers From June 1

Bengaluru: In some good news for women in Karnataka, the state government has announced that free bus travel for all female passengers starting June 1. The announcement came as a big relief for women in the state who had been expecting the announcement ever since Congress came to power in the recently held Assembly elections.

Karnataka Minister for Transport Ramalinga Reddy announced on Tuesday that all women can travel free of cost in the government buses in the state. He made the announcement while speaking to reporters after holding a meeting with Managing Directors of four divisions of the Karnataka Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC)
"The women can travel free of cost in government buses. There are no conditions. In our manifesto, we have not mentioned any conditions on scheme applicable for APL or BPL card-holders. State-wide women can travel at free of cost," he said.

"I have spoken to MDs and discussed pros and cons of the scheme. I will submit the report of the meeting, including the cost and other details to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah in this regard. CM Siddaramaiah has already discussed it with the Principle Secretary of Transport department," minister Ramalinga Reddy explained.
The announcement comes in line with the poll promises made by the Congress when the party promised free bus rides for women in all state run buses, if the party is voted to power. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi even travelled in a local bus and assured that the scheme will be implemented soon after Congress comes to the power.
As Congress registered a thumping victory in the state, people started pressing the party to fulfill the poll promises. The Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) staff and workers federation also wrote a letter to CM Siddaramaiah, asking him to implement the scheme. They said that a few women passengers are already refusing to pay the ticket fare while boarding the buses.

https://www.rehanshienterprises.com/news/6382/Karnataka-Announces-Free-Bus-Travel-For-Female-Passengers-From-June-1

Vistara inaugurates direct flights between Mumbai and London

Vistara inaugurates direct flights between Mumbai and London

Vistara today inaugurated its non-stop, 5x weekly flights between Mumbai and London (London Heathrow). The inaugural flight, operated by the state-of-the-art Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft, departed from Mumbai at 14:35 Hours (IST) and is scheduled to arrive at London Heathrow Airport at 19:55 Hours (BST). Vistara’s Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner is known for its distinctive features such as comfortable three-class seating, modern interiors, wireless connectivity on-board, cutting-edge in-flight entertainment system with live TV at 35,000 feet and wellness lighting solutions to name a few.

Vinod Kannan, Chief Executive Officer, Vistara, said, “We are excited to launch direct connectivity between Mumbai and London – a historically significant route for trade, business and leisure alike. While Mumbai is the financial capital of India, London holds critical importance in the global financial world while also being a popular destination for travel and tourism from India. This new route, at convenient departure and arrival timings, is in line with our continued efforts towards offering more flexibility and ease to our customers when planning their travel with India’s best airline. We believe that our world-class product complemented with our globally awarded service make for just the right combination for an exceptional flying experience. ”
Vistara celebrated the launch of the new international route with a ceremonious lamp lighting ceremony at the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport. Customers will be offered themed delicacies on the inaugural flight including regional favourites – pav bhaji and keema pav, and London’s speciality beer – Brewdog Punk IPA, on the return flight.

 

https://www.rehanshienterprises.com/news/6383/Vistara-inaugurates-direct-flights-between-Mumbai-and-London

Radisson Hotel Group signs 11 new hotels in India

 

Radisson Hotel Group signs 11 new hotels in India

Radisson Hotel Group continues its ambitious growth and development plan in India with the signing of 11 new hotels across brands between January and April 2023. Located in key gateway cities and emerging destinations, these new hotels are present across Hyderabad, Bengaluru, Ujjain, Raipur, Sonamarg, Manali, Kerala, and Visakhapatnam.

The group also announced the debut of its luxury lifestyle brand, Radisson Collection in India with the signing of the first hotel in Hyderabad while expanding its portfolio across other brands, including Radisson Blu, Radisson, Park Inn and Suites by Radisson, and Radisson Individuals Retreats, a brand extension of Radisson Individuals. These signings further solidify the Group’s leading position in South Asia, with 110 operating hotels in 64+ locations.

Further strengthening its partnership with Ruptub Solutions Private Limited, the Group also signed three new hotels under its Park Inn and Suites by Radisson brand in Bengaluru and Kerala. With one signing every month since the brand launch in November 2022, Park Inn and Suites by Radisson is a smart hotel investment designed to maximise returns through a conversion-friendly business model that delivers a heartfelt experience.
The full list of signings between January and April 2023 includes:
Radisson Collection Hotel Hyderabad Financial District: The 300-room hotel is close to Hyderabad’s financial district, which houses business centers, IT Parks, and Special Economic Zones (SEZs). Once open, the hotel will feature 300 elegant rooms and suites. Equipped with alluring and contemporary interiors, guests can select their preferred stay from standard rooms, executive suites, deluxe suites, and presidential suites. The design of the hotel will be curated with a sophisticated tone, elegant architecture, local nuances, and in totality, an exceptional experience for all backed by Radisson Hotel Group’s global service standards. It is expected to be operational by Q2, 2026.

Radisson Blu Resort Hyderabad Chevella: Located in Chevella, the hotel enjoys proximity to key tourist attractions, including Charminar Fort, Nehru Zoological Park, and Salar Jung Museum amongst others. The 160-room hotel will provide standard room and executive room categories along with facilities such as all-day dining, specialty restaurant, bar, ballroom, lawn, kids club, spa, and fitness center. It is expected to open by Q2 2026.

Radisson Hotel Sonamarg: Located in picturesque Sonamarg, the hotel is surrounded by 360-degree scenic views of the Himalayan mountains. It enjoys proximity to Thajwas Glacier and Srinagar- Ladakh highway. The hotel is currently operational and equipped with spacious rooms, all-day dining, and a tea lounge.

Radisson Hotel Sonipat: The hotel is strategically located between two industrial towns – Panipat and Sonipat and is also the first branded offering in these cities. The 120-room hotel will offer standard and suite rooms to guests and would also be equipped with a gym, spa, and banquet space. It is expected to open in Q4 2024.

Radisson Hotel Ujjain: Situated in the pilgrim city of Ujjain, the hotel is located close to the famous temple of Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga. The 150-room hotel will be the first branded offering in the city and when it opens will offer guests a choice between standard and executive suite rooms. It would further be equipped with an all-day dining, specialty restaurant, ballroom boardroom, banquet garden, swimming pool with deck, gymnasium, spa, yoga, and meditation center. It is expected to be operational by Q1 2026.

Radisson Hotel Raipur: Strategically located in Chhattisgarh’s capital city, the hotel boasts excellent visibility along the main road connecting Raipur with New Raipur. The 130-room hotel will offer standard rooms and executive suites along with other facilities, such as all-day dining, lounge bar, boardroom, conference room, ballroom, swimming pool, gymnasium, and spa. It is expected to open by Q4 2025.

Radisson Hotel Visakhapatnam: Strategically located in the Andhra Pradesh Medtech Zone, the 120-room hotel will provide standard room and executive room categories along with facilities such as all-day dining, bar, tea lounge, banquet hall, meeting rooms, swimming pool, health club, and a spa. It is expected to open by Q2 2026.

Palchan Hotel and Spa, a member of Radisson Individuals Retreats: Located in one of India’s most prominent leisure travel destinations, Manali, the hotel offers scenic views of the Beas River and panoramic views of the Himalayas. Major tourist attractions such as Rohtang Pass, Solang Valley, Gulaba Viewpoint, Jogini Waterfall, and Hidimba Devi Temple are located at a convenient 10-minute driving distance from the hotel. It will offer guests standard and suite category rooms along with facilities such as all-day dining, restaurant, bar, rooftop specialty restaurant, banquet hall, swimming pool, gymnasium, and spa. It is expected to open by Q3 2023.

Commenting on the development, Zubin Saxena, Managing Director and Area Senior Vice President, South Asia, Radisson Hotel Group said, “2023 marks a significant milestone for us at Radisson Hotel Group as we have successfully completed our 25-year journey in the Indian market. To translate our ambitious five-year expansion plan, we have signed 11 new hotels since January and have a strong pipeline ahead for this year. Our focus remains on strengthening our brand structure while enabling quality hospitality for guests across India.”