Category: TOURISM
SUTUS by Les Roches, the Space & Underwater Tourism Universal Summit confirms its fourth edition
On 26, 27 and 28 September, coinciding with the autumnal equinox, the headquarters of Les Roches in Spain and Switzerland will become the epicenter of the most avant-garde tourism. Future, space and the underwater universe will meet and mingle at the Space & Underwater Tourism Universal Summit (SUTUS), the world’s foremost space and underwater tourism event – and indeed the only one of its kind.
The fourth edition of the meeting, organized by Les Roches – a school specializing in hotel training and luxury tourism – and Medina Media Events, will welcome more than 50 speakers from Europe, America, Asia, Africa and Oceania.
Under the title “Beyond Borders”, SUTUS by Les Roches will explore new territories for moving towards emerging business models in luxury tourism. An opportunity for a constantly growing sector capable of mobilizing millions of travelers, renewing companies from within and boosting the innovative efforts of agents and companies involved.
A 2019 report by Swiss financial service company UBS estimates that commercial flights to outer space could become a $23 billion industry by 2030. This upwards tendency also applies to the underwater field that has experienced significant growth in recent decades due to the search for transformative, unforgettable journeys. According to the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), tourism currently accounts for 40% of the blue economy, the largest share in export value terms.
“There has been the possibility of journeying to the International Space Station as an individual tourist since 2001. While space and underwater tourism were already a reality in 2019 when SUTUS was born, there was no discussion forum anywhere in the world designed to address these issues in a profound way”, said Carlos Díez de la Lastra, CEO of Les Roches.
Singapore Tourism Board and MakeMyTrip ink year-long strategic partnership
Under the MOU, STB and MakeMyTrip will embark on joint activations and campaigns to boost inbound travel to Singapore in 2024. STB will also tap into MakeMyTrip’s market understanding and insights to curate unique travel holiday packages targeting consumers in India.
India is one of the top five markets for Singapore tourism, with the city-state welcoming over 1 million Indian visitors in 2023. Indian travellers enjoy good connectivity to Singapore, with 17 cities in India having direct flight connections. Furthermore, Singapore’s vibrant mix of attractions and experiences appeal to a wide range of Indian travellers.
Ms Melissa Ow, Chief Executive, Singapore Tourism Board said, “We are delighted to commence this journey with MakeMyTrip under our first-ever MOU with an online travel platform in India. Through this partnership, we want to deepen Indian consumers’ brand affinity for Singapore and reinforce the city’s appeal and enhanced offerings for various segments of Indian visitors.”
Mr Rajesh Magow, Co-Founder and Group CEO, MakeMyTrip added, “Singapore was one of the top three searched international destinations on our platform last year, advancing from fifth place in 2022. The widespread interest for this destination from across India underscores its appeal. With ongoing initiatives that refresh its offerings, seamless travel access, and amenities tailored to Indian preferences, Singapore holds significant potential to capture continued interest of more Indian travellers. We are excited to team up with STB and bridge the Indian travellers’ preferences with an impactful showcase of Singapore’s allure.”
Les Roches Announces Plans to Establish Its Region’s First Hospitality Education Academy with DCT in Abu Dhabi
The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) has announced the establishment of a cutting-edge hospitality education academy in Abu Dhabi in September 2024. The academy will be managed and guided under the stewardship of Les Roches, a globally acclaimed hospitality and leisure higher education institution, with the objective of providing hospitality skills and academic knowledge to nurture homegrown talent in the UAE and in the region.
With a vision to elevate the hospitality sector, Les Roches Global Hospitality’s first campus in the area will welcome its first students in September 2024. Founded in 1954 in Switzerland, Les Roches ranks fourth in the world’s higher education institutions for hospitality and leisure management (QS World University Rankings by Subject, 2023). The hospitality education academy will be uniquely defined by its objective to attract Emiratis and regional talents to the industry, offering them exceptional education and ensuring their seamless transition into key roles and leadership positions within the sector.
The academy will provide top-tier education that is authentic, uniquely Emirati, and futureproof. Differentiating itself through a unique and bespoke Emirati approach, practices and values of authentic traditions are brought to the forefront in its curriculum. Immersive experiences in UAE hospitality will be the unifying bridge, bringing together global and local students and audiences. The distinctive programme and methodology aims to future-proof the UAE hospitality sector by cultivating local talent with high-quality education and skills needed for the industry’s future.
HE Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), said: ” In line with our vision of inspiring journeys of creativity and discovery, the new academy will play a key role in ensuring the long-term sustainable growth of the hospitality industry, propelling future generations with a keen interest to reach their full potential. Celebrating Emirati hospitality, the academy will add to our diverse ecosystem that empowers local talent and will continue to contribute to Abu Dhabi’s growth as a dynamic and sustainable hub for tourism and culture”.
Les Roches’ model in hospitality education balances theory with practice, and independent learning with strong faculty support and mentorship, providing a solid foundation for advancement and ensuring that students acquire personal and professional skills for immediate employment and progression into leadership positions in the industry.
Carlos Díez de la Lastra, CEO of Les Roches Global Hospitality, commented: “This moment marks a new chapter in the history of a country and a region that have some of the most prestigious hotels in the world, and that are futureproofing themselves by training and preparing the next generation of industry leaders that uphold the values and authenticity of Emirati hospitality. We are very honoured to be part of this unique journey and contribute to raise the talents of tomorrow for the country.”
Benoît-Etienne Domenget,Sommet Education CEO, said: “We are excited to be involved in a project that is born out of the leadership’s vision for the future of the hospitality sector in the emirate, and honoured to support Abu Dhabi in putting people’s development as a strategic priority.”
With a focus on hospitality excellence, innovation, and cultural exchange, the academy is set to provide a comprehensive educational spectrum that welcomes talents from all around the world. Featuring a bachelor’s degree and two master’s degrees, combining conventional hospitality education programmes with specialised Emirati-centric courses to deliver tailored training to students.
Additionally, the curriculum includes a range of hospitality-related and practical skills certifications, across areas like hotel operations, travel, tourism, transport, and entrepreneurship. While more information about the academy, its courses, and enrolment procedures will be disclosed at a later date, this multifaceted approach underscores the institution’s commitment to equipping students with a diverse skill set for success in the dynamic hospitality industry. The new academy is expected to foster growth, creativity and deliver unmatched experiences that span beyond hospitality to include gastronomy, adventure, nature, and more.
The signing of Radisson Hotel Patna in the presence of leadership teams from Group
The signing of Radisson Hotel Patna in the presence of leadership teams from Radisson Hotel Group South Asia and Naturals Dairy Private Limited
The upcoming hotel is strategically located in Patna’s Patliputra area which boasts a prime location with easy access via major highways and railways. Ensuring seamless accessibility for both domestic and international travelers, Jayaprakash Narayan International Airport and the Patna Railway Station are at a conveniently situated distance from the hotel.
Renowned for its historical landmarks like Golghar and Patna Museum, Patna offers a unique blend of rich heritage and modern development. Serving as a hub for commerce, education, and tourism, the vibrant city holds immense potential for the hospitality industry.
“We are excited to achieve another milestone in our journey of expanding our presence in tier 2 and 3 regions of the country. The signing of our first hotel in Bihar, Radisson Hotel Patna, is a testament to the Group’s dedication to delivering quality accommodation across every corner of the country while bringing unexplored destinations to travelers’ radar. As we set our foot in the market, we look forward to raising the hospitality standard by delivering quality accommodations backed by exceptional service.” said Nikhil Sharma, Managing Director and Area Senior Vice President, South Asia, Radisson Hotel Group.
Upon opening, the hotel will welcome guests to spacious and comfortable rooms, ranging from standard rooms to suites. Boasting modern amenities, the property will feature two ballrooms equipped with modern technologies along with facilities such as a fitness area and a swimming pool. Culinary enthusiasts can indulge in the multiple dining options available, including an All-Day Diner and a tea lounge, promising a gastronomic journey to remember.
“We are delighted to partner with Radisson Hotel Group to develop and operate the first internationally branded hotel in the city of Patna. Together with the Group’s global hospitality standards and our regional expertise, we aim to redefine hospitality standards in the market,” said Hemant Das, Co-founder and CEO of Naturals Dairy Private Limited.
Radisson Hotel Group continues to command a leading presence in the Indian market and is one of the country’s largest international hotel operators with over 165 hotels in operation and development. It continues to be the largest hotel operator in a tier-1 market like Delhi NCR and at the same time, more than 50% of its portfolio is in tier-2 and 3 markets. With hotels dotted across 70+ locations in India, there is a Radisson Hotel Group hotel in every 4 hours of drivable distance across the length and breadth of the country operating under brands, including Radisson Collection, Radisson Blu, Radisson, Radisson RED, Park Inn by Radisson, Park Plaza, Park Inn & Suites by Radisson, Country Inn & Suites by Radisson and Radisson Individuals and its extension Radisson Individuals Retreats.
TBO.com Appoints Mr. Gerardo Del Río as President of its International Business
TBO.com, a leading global travel distribution platform, is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Gerardo Del Río as President of its international business to drive global growth and take the company to the next phase of its evolution.
With over 20 years of experience across hospitality, travel and consulting sectors, Gerardo brings a wealth of global management, finance, and business development expertise to the role. Gerardo’s career, spanning the Americas, Europe, and Asia Pacific, has equipped him with invaluable multi-cultural insights and a deep understanding of diverse global markets. In his illustrious career of over 2 decades, Gerardo has worked with some of the marquee companies including Melia Hotels, Hotelbeds (now HBX) and DidaTravel serving in various capacities and geographies.
On the new appointment, Mr. Gaurav Bhatnagar, Joint Managing Director and co-founder, TBO, stated,“We are delighted to welcome Mr. Gerardo Del Río to our leadership team. His extensive multi-market, multi-cultural experience and proven track record in the global travel and hospitality industry perfectly aligns with our vision for international expansion. Gerardo’s strategic leadership, client-centric approach, and focus on delivering results will strengthen our position as a leader in the global travel and tourism industry.”
On his new role, Mr. Gerardo Del Río stated, “I am honoured to join TBO at this exciting juncture. The company’s proven expertise in simplifying the travel business for both suppliers and buyers provides an excellent platform for growth. I look forward to leveraging my experience to foster innovation, build strategic partnerships, and drive the company’s expansion in the global market. I am particularly excited about spearheading TBO’s international growth initiatives, tapping into new markets, and enhancing our global footprint.”
Gerardo will lead the company’s global expansion efforts, ensuring a smooth transition as TBO enters new markets. He will focus on strengthening the company’s presence in existing markets while strategically entering new ones. His approach will centre on tailoring TBO’s cutting-edge travel technology solutions to meet diverse regional demands, cultivating cross-cultural partnerships, and driving sustainable growth across the global travel landscape.
Les Roches opens its campuses in Spain and Switzerland
Les Roches, one of the world’s best institutions in hospitality management education, welcomes a new academic year with innovations. Positioned at the forefront of the industry with a 70-year history, Les Roches introduces a new Master’s in Sports Management and Events, starting in September 2024.
According to the international consultancy Allied Market Research, the global sports tourism industry was valued at $323.420 billion in 2020 and is projected to reach $1,803.704 billion by 2030, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 16.1% until 2030. Specifically in 2024, it marks one of the years with the highest sports interest, as two of the events that attract the most travelers worldwide coincide. The UEFA European Championship in Germany and the celebration of the Olympic Games in Paris will undoubtedly be among the most sought-after destinations this summer. However, the sports-driven tourism industry is not solely focused on entertainment. The profile of vacationers has shifted towards a healthier lifestyle. As a result, there has been an increased demand trend for hotel accommodation with attractive sports offers.
In response to this growing demand, Les Roches is launching the Master’s in Sports Management and Events. Spanning 12 months, students will delve into the global sports and events industry, gaining essential skills for administrative and managerial roles. This includes analyzing the industry’s economic aspects on an international scale and planning and executing events. As part of the program, students will embark on business field trips to Abu Dhabi, a premier destination renowned for hosting prestigious events like NBA games, the Abu Dhabi Golf Championship, and the acclaimed Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. Additionally, they will visit Switzerland, home to major European sports organizations. These trips offer invaluable opportunities for students to immerse themselves in real-world settings, network with industry leaders, and gain practical insights into sports management practices on a global scale. The international sports and events industry offers exceptional professional opportunities, as various destinations, regions, and even countries utilize sports to diversify their economies while reinforcing their tourism and hospitality sectors.
Carlos Díez de la Lastra, Les Roches Global CEO, states: “Faced with a changing global demand, tourism companies must prepare for a decade filled with new expectations from travelers. Sports tourism is one of them. Over the past years, it has shown very positive growth figures, and we are confident it will continue this trend. Sports is a universal language known to all, which is why companies need to anticipate future trends, aiming to offer their customers excellent service and exquisite experiences. The implementation of this master’s program represents a firm commitment to education in a field that gains more aspirants each year and requires highly qualified and specialized personnel.”
TOURISM
Short trips, big cars, and smart hosts power the rise of flexible, self-drive travel across India Zoomcar Holdings, Inc. (OTCQX: ZCAR) (“Zoomcar” or “the Company”), India’s leading car-sharing marketplace, today unveiled its Travel Trends 2025 report, offering a deep dive into the shifting habits of Indian road travelers. Based on internal bookings and behavioral data […]
Tourism in Madhya Pradesh to wear a new look in 2024
In an effort to boost tourism the Madhya Pradesh government has mapped an innovative strategy for 2024. Besides introducing new elements, the government plans to revamp and broaden the existing schemes to add more vibrancy to the sector.
Cruise tourism, all women rides, safety of women, wellness and rural vacations will be an integral part of the 2024 trajectory.
“We designed a multi-pronged strategy for tourism in 2023. In 2024, the plan is to make it more holistic, inclusive, sustainable, eco-friendly and adventure packed,” says Principal Secretary Tourism Sheo Shekhar Shukla.
Cruise Tourism, New Trails
“We have a buoyant plan for cruise tourism in 2024. The main attraction will be the nearly 130 km inter-state cruise on river Narmada from the Statue of Oneness in Omkareshwar to the Statue of Unity in Gujarat. Floating jetties are already being put in place for this,” says Shukla who is also the Managing Director of Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board.
The multi-option, multi-destination cruises, will be punctuated with rural experiences in between the two destinations.
Elaborating on other cruise projects lined up for 2024 Shukla said that plans were afoot to link the Rajhat Dam near Chanderi in Madhya Pradesh to Deogarh in Uttar Pradesh.
“Long distance, intra-state cruises will be a new attraction for 2024,” he added.
Intra-state cruises from Miakal Resort in Bargi near Jabalpur to Tindini in Mandla district, Dharaji in Dewas to Sailani Tapu east of Omkareshwar, Sanjit village to the tent city of Gandhi Sagar are also on the anvil. The Tawa-Madhai cruise will be given a facelift by adding new experiences.
Identifying and developing new trekking trails in various buffer zones of National Parks/Sanctuaries will form part of the 2024 tourism strategy.
There will be promotion of state through different biking trails and car rallies. A special attraction – The Queens on the Wheel—an all women seven-day biking event – slated for February 2024 will take the riders on an adventurous ride from Bhopal to Orcha to Bhopal via Chanderi, Kuno, Gwalior, Mitawali, Padavali, Bateshwar, Orchha and Khajuraho.
“We have elaborate plans to develop many new off-beat destinations thereby leveraging the USP of our State.”
Catalyzing Connectivity, Wellness Vacations
In a bid to enhance connectivity between the various destinations, the tourism department is working to reintroduce small aircrafts under PPP.
“This is the best time to re-start this as the tourism sector has now bounced back after a post pandemic lull,” adds Shukla.
The 2024 calendar will have retreats for yoga and meditation.
“Wellness vacations offers much beyond diet and physical nurturing. The retreats will have a number of creative offerings. I am confident that the endeavor will spiral the tourist graph of the state,” says Shukla.
The plan is to host 12 such retreats in the first year followed by 24 and 36 in the second and third consecutive years. The retreats would be hosted in the select hotels owned by the Madhya Pradesh State Tourism Development Corporation.
Entrepreneurs are shaping the future through innovation in Rajasthan – Shri Kalicharan Saraf
Jaipuria Institute of Management, Jaipur in association with PHDCCI, conducted its 7th annual seminar of Rajasthan Development Dialogue 2023 on the theme ‘Innovation, Empowerment, and Visionary Initiatives’. Shri Kalicharan Saraf – Member of Assembly and former Health Minister, Rajasthan was invited as the chief guest. Shri Saraf expressed that entrepreneurs in Rajasthan are shaping the future through innovation. Shri Digvijay Dhabriya, Chair, PHDCCI, Rajasthan Chapter & CMD, Dhabriya Polywood Ltd, delivered the welcome address as the guest of honour.
Shri Dhabriya threw the light upon the significant contribution of Rajasthan entrepreneurs to the national growth. Dr. Prabhat Pankaj, Director welcomed the guests and shared that this seminar will help to advocate for collaborative and innovative approaches to address challenges and unlock the region’s potential. A comprehensive student-driven SME Report was also unveiled on this occasion. The report is based on the first-hand insights by students as a part of the Industry Immersion Program into the small and medium enterprise sector of Rajasthan.
Throughout the day, notable sessions highlighted various aspects crucial to Rajasthan’s growth, focusing on advancing manufacturing via innovative technologies, process excellence, and strategic industrial initiatives. In the session ‘Rural Renaissance: Nurturing Agriculture for Rajasthan’s Tomorrow,’ Dr. Atul Gupta, Chair Managing Director, Sunrise Agriland Development & Research Pvt. Ltd; Mr. Radhey Shayam Sharma, Director, Baagwaan Irrigation; Mr. Laxman Prasad Sharma- Secretary, Rajasthan State Agriculture Marketing Board expressed their views, while in the session ‘Empowering Rajasthan: Social Sector Innovations for a Brighter Tomorrow,’ Ms. Nisha Grover, Founder, Vatsalya Legacy Education; Ms. Priti Goyal, Founder, Dream Achiever Club; Ms. Laxmi Ashok, Founder, Shilpayan Sansthan; Ms. Lavina Rathore, Project Manager, I-India shared their thoughts. ‘Rajasthan Renaissance: Exploring the Investment and Business Opportunities,’ featured eminent speakers like Mr. R K Gupta, Resident Director, PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry; Mr. VS Shekhawat, Director, VS Shekhawat & Associates and Mr. Prahlad Rai, Manager, Rajasthan State Industrial Development and Investment Corporation Ltd (RIICO). In the session ‘Rajasthan Reimagined: Crafting Tomorrow’s Heritage, Designing Future Tourism,’ Ms. Radhika Pachar, Director, Pachar Group of Hotels; Mr. Shivang Agrawal, Architect, Studio Infinite and Mr. Vishnu Goyal, Director, VAB Consultancy Solution shared their thoughts.
In the session ‘Educational Visionaries: Transforming Challenges into opportunities in Rajasthan,’ Dr. R.L. Raina, Vice-Chancellor/President, Jaipur National University; Dr. Anoop Singh Poonia, Chairman Rajasthan Institute of Engineering and Technology and Dr. Raghav Prakash, Chairman, Parishkar International College expressed their views. In the session, “Evolving Landscapes: Town Planning for a Flourishing Rajasthan” the speakers were Er Nagendra Chaudhary, General Secretary, Township Developers Association of Rajasthan; Mr. Satish Sharma, Former Chief Town Planner. In the session, “Crafting the future: Innovations in Manufacturing Excellence” the speakers were Shri Ajay Gupta, CEO, Kamtech Associates Mr. Sudhir Nijawan, Managing Director, Nifty Innovation Pvt Ltd. In the session “Circular Economy/ Sustainability-From Waste to Wealth: Rajasthan’s Circular Revolution” the speakers were Dr. V K. Singhal, Fomer Chief Engineer, Rajasthan State Pollution Control Board Development; Mr. Manoj Sabu, Co-Founder, Ecowrap. In the session, “Blue Horizons: Rajasthan’s Journey towards Water Conservation” the speakers were, Mr. Ravi Solanki, Engineer, Water Resources Department (WRDO); Dr. V K. Singhal, Former Chief Engineer, Rajasthan State Pollution Control Board Department. In the session, “Rajasthan’s Entrepreneurs: Crafting Success, Defining Tomorrow” Ms. Alka Batra, Managing Director, Aegis Jobs; Ms. Meeta Mathur, Chairperson, AWARE; Mr. Dhawal Singhal, Mentor, I-start Rajasthan expressed their views.
Shri Amit Kumar Choudhary, Co-Chair, PHDCCI-Rajasthan Chapter & Director, DD Pharmaceuticals was the guest of honour for the valedictory session. Dr. Varun Chotia and Dr. Aparna Mendiratta convened the seminar and presented a formal vote of thanks.
TOURISM – Page 2
Under the MOU, STB and MakeMyTrip will embark on joint activations and campaigns to boost inbound travel to Singapore in 2024. STB will also tap into MakeMyTrip’s market understanding and insights to curate unique travel holiday packages targeting consumers in India. India is one of the top five markets for Singapore tourism, with the city-state […]