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Malaysia successfully invited 1,009,114 Indian tourists between January and November 2024, achieving remarkable growth. This 71.1 per cent increase from 2023 is attributed to the introduction of free visa entry and enhanced flight connectivity, including new routes by Indigo Airlines. The growth positions Malaysia as a destination ahead of Visit Malaysia Year 2026.

Malaysia reached its target of welcoming 1,009,114 Indian tourists from January to February 2024, an increase of 47 per cent compared to the pre-pandemic level in 2019. This increase also represents an increase of a an impressive 71.7 per cent by 2023, reinforcing Malaysia's interest again as a distinguished Indian traveler.

Doto Sri Tiong King Sing, Minister of Tourism Arts and Culture, Malaysia, highlighted the role of the free visa entry policy introduced in December 2023 in driving this growth. He stated, "The introduction of free visa entry in December 2023 has proven to be a transformative initiative driving a significant increase in the number of Indian tourists visiting Malaysia." This policy and the launch of new direct flights by Indigo Airlines to Penang and Langkawi have further strengthened Malaysia's position as a destination of choice, especially in anticipation of Visit Malaysia Year 2026.

Tourism Malaysia's collaboration with tour operators and online travel agencies has been pivotal in promoting Malaysia's rich culture and attractions. Collaborative marketing campaigns and extensive digital advertising helped keep Indian travelers happy.

Apart from leisure tourism, it has been recognized by Malaysia's Best MICE Destination 2024 making it an attractive destination for business tourists.

The seamless combination of business and leisure tourism has boosted local economies and strengthened Malaysia as a leading destination for meetings, incentives, meetings and exhibitions. Looking ahead to 2025 and Visit Malaysia Year 2026, Malaysia plans to increase connectivity and develop customized tourism products to provide memorable experiences for Indian tourists.

The new indiGo flights to Malaysia bring the total number of direct flights from India to an impressive 246, marking a significant step in bolstering tourist arrivals for Visit Malaysia Year 2026.

#malaysiatourism #visitmalaysia #travelupdate #malaysianews #indianvisitor

The Royal Thai Embassy in New Delhi has announced the implementation of Thailand's Electronic Visa (e-visa) system in India, effective January 1, 2025.

Non-Thai nationals will apply for visas online via the official website, with offline payment options available. Applications under the current system will be accepted until mid to late December 202,4, depending on the type of passport. The 60-day visa exemption for Indian tourists and short business visits will remain in effect until further notice.

The Royal Thai Embassy in New Delhi has officially announced the rollout of Thailand's Electronic visa system in India, effective January 1, 2025.

In its announcement, the Embassy highlighted that the e-visa system would cater to non-Thai nationals applying for all types of visas. Applicants must submit their visa applications exclusively through the official website Thai visa.go.th.

The Embassy clarified that "the applicants or other representatives can submit each application. " However, it warned that it shall not bear responsibility if any application submitted by a representative is incomplete. Applicants can find a detailed guide on the application process on the same website.

To complete their applications, visa seekers must pay the required visa fees, the details of which will be provided by the Embassy and respective Consulate generals. The Embassy underlined that visa fees are non-refundable under all circumstances." Additionally, the processing time for e-visas is expected to take approximately 14 working days from the issuance of the visa receipt.

The Embassy also provided a timeline for transitioning from the current visa application system to the e-visa platform. Ordinary passport applications submitted to designated visa processing companies will be accepted until December 16, 2024. Diplomatic and official passport application submissions will be accepted at the Embassy or Consulate Generals until December 24, 2024.

For Indian travellers holding ordinary passports, the Embassy reassured that the 60-day visa exemption for tourism and short business trips would remain effective until further announcement. Additional details regarding the e-visa system and its operations across the Embassy and Consulate generals will be announced in due course. India and Thailand, as neighbouring nations in the extended region, share a maritime boundary in the Andaman Sea and a relationship steeped in history. Their ties are strengthened by centuries of social and cultural exchanges, with deep connections between people and people.

The shared Buddhist heritage is evident in the frequent pilgrimages made by Thai nationals to India's Buddhist sites. At the same time, Hindu influences are mirrored in Thai art, architecture, dance, drama, and literature. The Thai language also incorporates elements of Pali and Sanskrit. Additionally, the prominent Indian diaspora living and working in Thailand is a vital link between the two nations.

#thailandvisa #evisa #electronicvisa #indianvisitors #indiannationals #touristvisa

IATA has warned that supply chain challenges will continue to affect airlines into 2025, raising costs and limiting growth. Aircraft deliveries are falling short of projections, with the global fleet ageing and leasing rates increasing. These issues hinder airlines' ability to improve fuel efficiency and meet net zero carbon targets.

The International Air Transport Association has cautioned that prominent supply chain issues will continue to affect airline performance well into 2025, raising costs and limiting growth. IATA's latest industry outlook highlights airlines' persistent challenges, such as improving revenue generation, increasing operational expenses, and hindering progress on environmental goals.

The global fleet's average age has reached a record high of 14.8 years, up from 13.6 years during 1990-2024. Aircraft deliveries have seen a sharp decline since their peak in 2018, with an estimated 1254 aircraft set to be delivered in 2024, a 30 per cent shortfall from earlier expectations.

The global fleet's average age has reached a record high of 14.8 years, up from 13.6 years during the 1990 to 2024 period. Aircraft deliveries have sharply declined since their peak in 2018, with an estimated 1254 aircraft set to be delivered in 2024, a 30 per cent shortfall from earlier expectations.

The forecast for 2025 remains low at 1802 deliveries, prominently below the anticipated 2293. The backlog of unfulfilled aircraft orders has surged to a record 17,000, representing a waiting time of 14 years at current delivery rates double the six-year average from 2013 to 2019. However, the waiting period is expected to shorten as delivery rates increase. Around 14 per cent of the global fleet, or approximately 5000 aircraft, remain parked higher than pre-pandemic levels. Many aircraft are grounded due to necessary engine inspections and supply chain disruptions.

IATAs Director General Willie Walsh commented on the issue, saying, "Supply chain issues are frustrating every airline with a triple whammy on revenues, costs and environmental performance."

He also explained that apart from the high load factors and the potential to deploy more aircraft profitably, the ongoing supply chain issues are restricting capacity and inflating costs, mainly through rising leasing rates. Walsh also pointed out that fuel efficiency improvements have stagnated with no progress between 2023 and 2024, and leasing rates for narrow-body aircraft have surged by 20 to 30 per cent compared to 2019.

He further emphasised that supply chain changes also show airlines progress towards achieving their net zero carbon goals, urging aircraft and engine manufacturers to resolve these issues. This would not only help airlines improve fuel efficiency but also better support their environmental efforts.

#iata #airline #performance #aviation #indiatravelnews #indiaupdate 

According to the World Travel and Tourism Council, Indian visitors spent approximately $34.2 billion on outbound travel in 2023. However, Asia Pacific President Allan Watts Hilton said the current level of Indian travel is minuscule compared to what is to come.

"The story for India is before us," he said. "India outbound will be the story of the next decade."

According to the World Travel and Tourism Council's Economic Impact 2024 report, Indian travellers' outbound spending is projected to more than double to $76.8 billion by 2034. This would make the country the seventh largest travel spender in the world, up from 12th in 2023.

"When you think of India, it has the characteristics of China, which is the second largest lodging market in the world," said Watts. It has a 1.4 billion young population and historically strong GDP growth. But the infrastructure is only just getting built in India now."

India is investing heavily in infrastructure to build and improve its riads high-speed trains and airports to double the economy to $7 trillion by 2030 and turn India into a developed nation by 2047. India currently has the third most air passengers in the world after the United States and China, according to Airports Council International. It is expected to add 960 million new passengers by 2042. On Monday, Air India, the country's flag carrier, confirmed an order for 100 Airbus aircraft, 10 A350 and 90 A320 neo jets, on top of a record-breaking order for 470 Airbus and Boeing aircraft in 2023. That follows a record-breaking order for 500 Airbus jets by India's low-cost carrier Indigo in 2023, scheduled to be delivered between 2030 and 2035, according to Indigo.

As for whether India will be the new China in the global travel industry, Watts said, "It certainly seems to have the right characteristics for it, and that is why the industry has been so bullish." He also noted that outbound travel is growing faster in India than in China.

Expansion of Hotel

Global hospitality companies are also preparing for an explosion of new travellers, a million of whom are projects to move into India's middle class in the coming years. On November 19, Hilton announced a deal to open 150 Spark by Hilton hotels in India, a premium economy brand launched in the United States in 2023. In discussing the potential for branded hotel expansion in India, Watts confirmed that India has around the same number of branded hotels as Las Vegas. But now, it is getting more attention from outside investors.

Watts said, "What's different about India this time is its foreign direct investment. Some of the big capital players are in Indi, and that's new."

Marriott, IHG, Hyatt, and Wyndham are also moving to capture growing travel interest in India. Marriott announced plans to have 250 hotels in the subcontinent by 2025.

Courting Indian travelers

As outbound travel from China remains muted, more countries are counting Indian travellers through new visa-free agreements, direct flights and ad campaigns. Australia's Howzat for a holiday? The campaign launched in November during the Australia-India Test cricket series is projected to reach 50 million people, according to its minister for trade and tourism. The number of Indian travellers to Australia is expected to double by 2028, according to the latest report.

#indiantravellers #trending #destinations #visa #outbound #internationaltrip

Top international destinations include Azerbaijan and Bali, which have emerged as hotspots for Indian travellers.

The aftermath of the pandemic has revolutionized travel, changing how people explore the world. There has also been a noticeable shift in Indian stature, with more people prioritizing travel and experience over material possessions. Google's Year in Search 2024 report recently revealed the top destinations Indians are searching for. Top international destinations include Azerbaijan and Bali, which have emerged as hotspots for Indian travellers.

Here is a list of the top 10 most searched travel destinations-

Azerbaijan

Azerbaijan offers travellers a distinct blend of modernity and tradition, from the futuristic Flame Towers in Baku to the ancient charm of the Old City. Known for its diverse landscapes, including the Caspian Sea coast, the Caucasus Mountains and mud volcanoes, it is a haven for nature and adventure enthusiasts.

Bali

Indonesia's tropical paradise is known for its tranquil beaches, lush rice paddies and vibrant cultural traditions. Visitors can explore ancient temples, indulge in world-class surfing and yoga resorts, and enjoy the island's unique blend of spirituality and nightlife.

Manali

Manali, situated in the Himalayas, is a picture firefly destination known for its snow-capped peaks, lush valleys and serene rivers. It provides adventure activities like trekking, paragliding, and skiing alongside cultural attractions such as ancient temples and Tibetan monasteries. Ideal for both natural lovers and thrill seekers, Manali is a favourite getaway for all seasons.

Kazakhstan

Kazakhstan offers a unique mix of natural beauty and cultural heritage, with its vast steppes, rugged mountains, and cheerful cities. Travellers can explore the modern architecture of Almaty and Astana, trek through the Charyn Canyon, or experience nomadic traditions in the countryside.

Jaipur

Jaipur, the Pink City, is a treasure marvel of rich cultural heritage, vibrant architecture, and warm hospitality. This royal city is home to iconic landmarks like the Hawa Mahal, Amber Fort, and City Palace. From shopping for handicrafts to indulging in delicious Rajasthani cuisine, Jaipur offers a genuinely immersive travelling experience.

Georgia

Georgia, which is located at the crossroads of Europe and Asia. It offers a distinct blend of stunning mountain landscapes, ancient history, and vibrant culture.

Visitors can explore the cobblestone streets of Tbilisi, hike through the breathtaking Caucasus Mountains, and sample the country's popular wine and cuisine. From ancient monasteries to modern Ski resorts, Georgia has something for every kind of traveller.

Malaysia

Malaysia is a diverse travel destination offering everything from bustling cities like Kuala Lumpur to tropical islands such as Langkawi and Penang. Travellers can explore the country's rich cultural heritage, lush rainforest, stunning beaches, and delicious cuisine blending Malay, Chinese, and Indian influences.

Ayodhya

Ayodhya, a city steeped in ancient history and mythology, is a sacred destination for Hindus and a fascinating cultural experience for travellers. Visitors can explore the iconic Ram Janmabhoomi temple, dip in the holy Sarayu River, and discover the city's rich heritage through its many temples, museums, and cultural events.

Kashmir

Kashmir, often called "Paradise on Earth," provides breathtaking landscapes of snow-capped mountains, serene lakes like Dal Lake, and lush meadows.

Kashmir is well known for its rich cultural heritage. Travellers can explore beautiful gardens and historic shrines and experience the warmth of Kashmiri hospitality. Kashmir promises a serene and scenic retreat suitable for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.

South Goa

South Goa is known for its peaceful beaches, picture-friendly landscapes, and laid-back vibe. It provides a serene escape from the more crowded North Goa. Visitors can enjoy pristine beaches like Palolem, Colva, and Agonda, as well as historical forts, charming villages, and vibrant local markets.

#googlesearch #indianvisitors #mostsearcheddestination #2024travellist

IHG Hotels & Resorts has recently signed an agreement to set up a Holiday InExpress Hotel in Ayodhya, which is expected to open in mid-2028.

The development is part of IHG's strategy to expand its presence in high-growth markets in India, especially spiritual destinations where tourism is increasing.

Holiday In Express is IHG's most significant and fastest-growing hotel brand, with over 3,000 properties worldwide. It is known for its accessible and comfortable accommodations and streamlined services. The Ayodhya property will aim to support the growing demand for spiritual and leisure tourism and cater to meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions for MICE travellers.

Ayodhya has emerged as one of India's most popular tourist destinations in 2024, with over 110 million visitors recorded in the first half of the year alone. The Holiday Inn Express Ayodhya's strategic location, close to the city's airport, railway station, and main temple complex, makes it an easily accessible option for visitors. The hotel will feature 125 well-appointed rooms, an all-day dining area, a fitness centre, a business centre, a parking space, a laundry room, and a spacious meeting room.

Sandeep Jain, MD South West Asia IHG Hotels and Resort,s commented: "We are thrilled to announce the signalling of Holiday Inn Express Ayodhya. Ayodhya has become one of India's most preferred tourist destinations in 2024. With Holiday Inn Express Ayodhya's strategic location, the hotel will benefit predominantly from spiritual tourism year-round. The hotel is poised to offer a unique stay experience, mixing world-class hospitality, comfort and convenience with an easy connection to the city's spiritual heritage."

Jain added, "This signing reaffirms our commitment to expand IHG's presence in secondary markets, including those with significant cultural and religious appeal, as the number of travellers to these markets continues to grow, driving demand for quality accommodation."

Abhishek Jain, the hotel's owner, said, "We are delighted to partner with IHG Hotels and Resorts to introduce Holiday Inn Express to the holy city of Ayodhya. By amalgamating our local expertise with IHG's global standards, we aim to create a distinguished destination that will become a preferred choice for domestic and international travellers. With a high visibility and strategic location, the hotel will set new standards for hospitality in Ayodhya."

The development of this new property responds to Ayodhya's growing popularity as a key destination for cultural and spiritual tourism. Its proximity to the city's main attractions and the transport hub positions it as a convenient choice for visitors exploring the area or attending to religious and cultural norms.

With this agreement, IHG strengthens its footprint in the Indian hospitality market while focusing on emerging secondary markets as high-potential destinations due to increased travel demand. This venture underlines the strategic shift toward regions with both cultural and religious significance while ensuring accessibility and hospitality for a growing number of visitors.

#indiantourism #ayodhya #travelnews #tourismupdate

Morocco's tourism sector is booming, with a record 15.9 million travellers in the first 11 months of 2024, exceeding 2023. This upsurge represents a 20% increase compared to last year and has generated nearly $10 billion in revenue. The government aims to attract 17.

Morocco received a record 15.9 million tourists in the first 11 months of this year, exceeding the total in previous years, the tourism ministry said on Monday. Tourism accounts for about 7 per cent of North Africa's gross domestic product and is a key source of jobs and foreign currency.

The ministry said in a statement that arrivals up to November were up to 20 per cent compared to the same period last year and 10 per cent higher than the whole of 2023.

"These remarkable figures prove the impact of our roadmap and represent a major step towards our goal of positioning Morocco among the top 15 global tourist destinations," the statement quotes minister Fatim Zahra Ammor as saying.

Morocco has opened additional air routes to key tourist markets while promoting newer destinations and encouraging the industry to renovate hotels. From January to October, official figures showed that tourism revenue was up 9.3 percent to 97 billion dirhams. Morocco aims to reach approximately 17.5 million visitors by 2026 and 26 million by 2030, when it will co-host the soccer World Cup with Spain and Portugal.

#moroccotourism #traveltomorocco #morocconews #moroccoupdate

This initiative aligns with SRSA's primary objective of strengthening the coastal tourism industry by providing a welcoming environment for tourists, investors and port operators within the Red Sea area. 

The Saudi Red Sea Authority has granted Al Ahlam Marine its inaugural marina operation licenses for Yanbu and Al Lith. SRSA's role is to issue permitting permits developed in ports and encourage investment in maritime marine tourism efforts. The new licenses are then issued for enhancing tourism infrastructure. This is done by designating ports for boats and yachts, thereby maintaining strict safety standards. And at the same time providing hospitality services. They aim to improve the visitor experience, regulate tourism and protect marine life.

Introducing these ports is part of SRSA's broader initiative to upgrade infrastructure and advocate environmentally friendly tourism along the Red Sea coast. This helps powerful papers such as the Red Sea Port in Jeddah, and Al Ahlam Marina in Jeddah. This development represents a key milestone in the SRSA's ongoing commitment to transforming the Red Sea into a premier international tourism hub.

#sauditourism #travelnews #saudinews #redsea #saudiupdate

The Pacific Tourism Organisation kicked off its pivotal Board Meeting at the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat, uniting industry leaders under the theme "Be Part of the Blue Responsible Tourism Industry." Board Chairperson Madam Adela Issachar said.

Apart from this Aru launched the two-day event, focusing on cooperation and strategic planning for guiding the tourism sector towards a sustainable future. The day will began with a symbolic group photo before transitioning into focused discussions. Highlighting the event was the Inaugural Women in Tourism Talanoa Session, which celebrated the contributions of women in tourism while addressing the distinct challenges they face.

Ms Salaseini Daunabuna, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation, delivered the keynote, reinforcing the sector's alignment with Fiji's Women's Economic Empowerment National Action Plan 2024-29. The session also invited insights from Ms Eseta Nadakuitavuki, Permanent Secretary for Women, Children and Social Protection.

A high-level meeting in the afternoon brought together regional officials to tackle pressing issues such as infrastructure enhancement, digital transformation, and strengthening cooperation to advance sustainable tourism in the South Pacific.

Day two will feature the 33rd session of the Council of Tourism Ministers, aiming to solidify strategic discussions into actionable initiatives.

The Pacific Tourism Organisation reasurred its dedication to empowering women, addressing climate change, and fostering cross-sector collaboration to ensure a resilient and inclusive future for Pacific communities and ecosystems.

#tourismnews #pacifictourismorganisation #responsibletouirsm #sustainabletravel 

New Zealand has launched an effort to implement immigration changes designed to attract international talent and expand post-study work opportunities for graduates.

While other nations, such as Australia, the UK, and Canada, have restricted their immigration and study visa policies. The integration of New Zealand makes it an easy destination for international students looking for long-term employment. These changes raise the country's profile as a significant study-abroad destination and underscore its commitment to developing a world-class skilled workforce.

Flexible Post Study Work Visa Eligibility

The New Zealand government has revamped its post-study work visa program, allowing greater flexibility for international students transitioning from academic programs to work. The revised program now offers students a minimum of weeks. After 30 courses of the postgraduate certificate, which immediately after the access to a master's degree progress, they are eligible for a PSW visa. They get. This adjustment ensures that students pursuing sequential qualifications in New Zealand can still access post-graduation work nights.

Also, international students who complete a qualifying PSW but later obtain a higher degree but still need to automatically qualify for a PSW visa due to duration or other requirements can apply for a visa within 12 months of the date whose initial eligibility will expire. It gives you the right.

Needs for the Three-Year Post-Study Work Visa

To be eligible for a three-year PSW visa, students must complete at least 30 weeks of full-time study within a Masters degree program in New Zealand. The qualification must be approved and meet specific criteria, including full-time study duration.

Green List Alignment and Qualification Updates

The recent changes also bring greater alignment between PSW visa eligibility and New Zealand's Green List of priority skills and occupations. These updates mirror the country's efforts to address labour shortages in high-demand fields while creating opportunities for international graduates to fill critical roles.

Key updates include-

Teaching Pathways—Graduates pursuing secondary school teaching careers no longer need a Bachelor's degree specializing in Science, mathematics, technology, or Pacific languages. Instead, they may qualify with relevant diplomas and registration with New Zealand's Teaching Council, opening PSW visa opportunities for primary and intermediate-level teaching roles.

Engineering Opportunities—The New Zealand Diploma in Engineering with a specialization in mechanical Engineering has been added to the list of eligible qualifications; graduates in this field can now apply for a PSW visa, paving the way for Mechanical Engineering Technicians to contribute to the country's skilled workforce.

Way These Changes Matter for International Students

The changed policies are significant in making New Zealand more attractive to international students. Integrating flexible qualification pathways and aligning with the Green List allows graduates to transition seamlessly into the workforce, providing economic stability and career growth opportunities. By increasing eligibility criteria, New Zealand ensures that students pursuing diverse academic disciplines can access post-study work rights, fostering a more inclusive system.

Global Impact on Study and Work Trends New Zealand as a Study Destination

These changes position New Zealand as a top choice for students seeking a balance of high-quality education and post-graduation work opportunities. With competing nations imposing stricter visa regulations, New Zealand's more inviting policies are expected to draw students who prioritize long-term career prospects and pathways to residency.

Benefits to Employers and the Economy

Requirements that align with the Green List ensure that the workforce has access to the talent the country needs—companies facing skills shortages such as teaching and technical for PSW visas. New Zealand's immigration system fosters a qualified workforce to support sustainable economic growth.

Final Takeaway for Prospective Students and Graduates

Students applying for a PG Diploma and Master's Degree have a clear process to qualify for a PSW visa. Graduates have a 12-month window to apply for a PSW visa based on their initial qualifications, allowing flexibility in their career transition process. Updates in teaching and technology have opened up new opportunities for international students in demanding jobs.

A Global Signal of Opportunity

In the face of tightening immigration policies in other nations, New Zealand's changes to its Post Study Work Visa framework send a strong signal of inclusivity and opportunity. New Zealand reinforces its position as a leader in education and skilled migration by creating pathways for international students to contribute meaningfully to its workforce. These updates represent a chance for students worldwide to build rewarding careers in one of the most immigrant-friendly nations.

#newzealand #visa #nzvisa #studentvisa #studydestination