Zimbabwe & Botswana to introduce passport-free travel for regional mobility, tourism push
The policy is expected to deliver multiple benefits, including improved people-to-people connectivity, enhanced trade flows and increased tourism exchanges between the two neighbouring nations.
Réunion Island boosts India push with direct IndiGo flights from Chennai
From April 29, 2026, IndiGo is set to operate a direct route between Chennai and Réunion Island, with three flights weekly (Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday). This new connectivity is said to be a key milestone in the destination’s strategy for the Indian market and positions the island as a vibrant French overseas territory at easy access for the discerning Indian traveller.
Thailand extends visa exemption for Indian tourists, allows 60-day stay
However, travellers intending to stay beyond 60 days or seeking entry under other visa categories will need to apply through Thailand’s e-visa platform.
US ranked world’s largest tourism market in 2025; losing market share with 5%+ dip in visitors: WTTC
World Travel & Tourism Council’s (WTTC) latest Economic Impact Research, sponsored by its lead research partner, Chase Travel, found that the United States remained the largest Travel & Tourism market in the world in 2025 but is losing market share. While 2025 saw the best year ever for the Travel & Tourism sector in terms of GDP growth of 4.1%, the story was very different for North America...
Jamaica records over 1 mn visitors following weather disruptions
Jamaica’s tourism sector has recorded over one million visitors following recent hurricane-related disruptions, signalling renewed momentum for the island as a preferred long-haul destination for international travellers, including key markets such as India. The milestone reflects coordinated efforts across government, tourism authorities and industry stakeholders to restore operations...
Emirates & Wesgro sign MoU to boost inbound tourism to Western Cape
Under the agreement, Emirates and Wesgro will collaborate on boosting travel from key growth markets including the GCC, Far East, India, and other mutually identified source markets, to promote the destination and encourage travellers to experience the abundance of natural, cultural and historical attractions.
Mammoth Lakes Tourism Announces New Chief Executive Officer
Mammoth Lakes Tourism announced the appointment of Brian Wright as its new President and Chief Executive Officer, marking a new chapter for the organisation and the Mammoth Lakes community. Wright’s appointment follows the departure of former President and CEO John Urdi and reflects a deliberate effort to ensure leadership aligned with the organisation’s long-term vision and the needs of...
Travel & Tourism contributed 9.8% to the global economy in 2025; WTTC calls it sector’s best year
As per a new report by WTTC & Chase Travel, the Travel & Tourism’s global GDP contribution reached a record USD 11.6 trillion. Of all regions, Asia-Pacific recorded the strongest expansion in Travel & Tourism GDP in 2025, with growth of 8.1%, driven by reopening momentum, rising international demand, and strong regional connectivity.
For 2026, Türkiye bets on resilience, cultural connect & connectivity to reignite Indian numbers
While India is not yet among the top 10 source markets, its long-term potential remains significant given the rapid growth of outbound travel. Encouragingly, early signs of recovery are already visible. 2026 trends further suggest a gradual upward movement, indicating that demand from India remains positive despite short-term headwinds.
VFS Global launches Singapore visa services in Punjab and Tamil Nadu
VFS Global has been appointed as an Authorised Visa Agent (AVA) for Singapore visa services in Chandigarh and Chennai in India by The High Commission of the Republic of Singapore in New Delhi and the Consulate-General of the Republic of Singapore in Chennai, to make the Singapore visa application process seamless for applicants across Punjab and Tamil Nadu.
