Eighth Me and All Hotels property in Germany and ninth in Europe

CHICAGO, IL (July , 2026) – Hyatt Hotels Corporation (NYSE: H) today announced the opening of Me and All Hotel Leipzig, a 282-room hotel that combines Bauhaus-inspired design, local culture and social experiences in the heart of Leipzig. Operated by the Lindner Hotel Group as part of its strategic collaboration with Hyatt, the hotel reflects the successful combination between Hyatt’s global brand expertise and Lindner’s deep understanding of the German hospitality market. The opening marks the continued expansion of the Me and All Hotels brand in Germany, further strengthening its position within Hyatt’s Lifestyle portfolio.

Located in Leipzig Zentrum-Ost, just moments from Leipzig Central Station and the historic city centre, Me and All Hotel Leipzig places guests within easy reach of popular attractions, cultural institutions and business hubs. The historic Old Town, Leipzig Market Square, St. Thomas Church and the renowned Gewandhaus concert hall are all nearby, while Leipzig Central Station provides convenient connections across Germany and beyond.

Michel Morauw, Managing Director, EAME North, Hyatt, said, “Leipzig has emerged as one of Germany's most exciting urban destinations, attracting creative talent, entrepreneurs, international businesses and cultural travellers alike. Me and All Hotel Leipzig perfectly captures the energy of the city through its vibrant social spaces, design-led approach and strong connection to the local community. The opening reflects Hyatt's continued focus on expanding our Lifestyle portfolio in sought-after destinations across Europe.”

In the heart of Leipzig's creative and cultural scene

The surrounding neighbourhood reflects Leipzig's evolving identity as a hub for creativity, innovation and culture. Independent cafés, galleries, bars and event venues sit alongside a growing startup ecosystem, creating an energetic atmosphere that appeals to both visitors and locals. The city is also internationally recognised for major events including the Leipzig Book Fair, music festivals and a thriving arts scene. Through collaborations with local partners, the hotel aims to become a vibrant meeting place within Leipzig’s creative scene, offering guests authentic connections to the destination beyond a traditional hotel stay.

Bauhaus-inspired design with a contemporary twist

Designed by Kitzig Interior Architects in collaboration with Grimbach Nogales Hochbauarchitekten, Me and All Hotel Leipzig draws inspiration from the Bauhaus movement, one of Germany's most influential design traditions. The hotel blends clean architectural lines with organic forms, creating spaces that feel both contemporary and welcoming.

A dynamic palette of colours, fluid shapes and thoughtfully selected materials runs throughout the hotel, reflecting the Me and All Hotels philosophy of individuality, creativity and local connection. Bauhaus-inspired artistic influences can be found throughout the property, creating an environment that celebrates both Leipzig's cultural heritage and its forward-looking spirit.

A social hub for guests and locals alike

At the heart of the Me and All Hotel Leipzig is Biladi & All, a vibrant social hub where hotel guests and locals come together to enjoy handcrafted drinks, authentic Neapolitan pizza and unforgettable experiences. The culinary focus is on authentic Neapolitan pizza, prepared using traditional methods with carefully selected ingredients and long-fermented dough, then baked at high temperatures to achieve its characteristic light, airy crust and unmistakable flavour.

As the hotel's lively bar and event venue, Biladi & All comes alive throughout the day and well into the evening. Guests can enjoy expertly crafted cocktails, local beers and a carefully curated drinks selection, while regular DJ sessions, live entertainment and community events create an energetic yet welcoming atmosphere. More than just a restaurant, Biladi & All is a place where food, music and people come together—reflecting the vibrant spirit of Leipzig and the Me and All Hotels brand.

The relaxed atmosphere reflects the brand's community-driven approach, with regular programming and social experiences creating a dynamic environment throughout the day and into the evening. Me and All Hotel Leipzig is designed as a true gathering place where locals and travellers naturally come together to work, meet, relax and experience the city.

Designed for modern urban travellers

The hotel features 282 guestrooms across a range of categories, including standard rooms, twin rooms, studios and boarding houses. Designed with comfort and functionality in mind, accommodations feature premium bedding, large flat-screen televisions, minibars, in-room coffee stations and keyless entry technology for a seamless guest experience. In addition to its guestrooms, the hotel offers studios and long-stay apartments, providing contemporary accommodations for everything from weekend city breaks to extended stays.

Flexible spaces for collaboration and connection

With 250 square metres of meeting and event space across four rooms, equipped with smart layouts and modern technology, Me and All Hotel Leipzig is well-placed to host business meetings, workshops and private events. The largest meeting room spans 100 square metres, offering flexibility for a variety of event formats. The hotel's central location further strengthens its appeal for corporate travellers and event organisers.

Wellness in the city

Guests have access to a 150-square-metre fitness centre equipped with a comprehensive range of cardio and strength-training equipment, alongside a 70-square-metre sauna designed for relaxation after a day in the city. Complementing the hotel's vibrant social spaces, these wellness facilities create a balanced experience for both business and leisure travellers.

Kenneth Hein, General Manager, Me and All Hotel Leipzig added, “Opening Me and All Hotel Leipzig is an exciting moment for our team and for the city. Leipzig is known for its creativity, openness and entrepreneurial spirit, and we wanted to create a hotel that reflects that energy in every detail. From stylish guestrooms and engaging social hubs to community experiences and central location, the hotel offers the perfect base for guests to relax, connect and explore the city. Whether staying for one night or several weeks, guests will experience a hotel that combines the international strength of Hyatt with the individuality and character of Leipzig.”

The term “Hyatt” is used in this release for convenience to refer to Hyatt Hotels Corporation and/or one or more of its affiliates.

Gut Health Takes Centre Stage at Kamalaya

Award-winning Samui wellness sanctuary shares expert insights into health trend

KOH SAMUI, Thailand (July , 2026) – Gut health has never been a hotter topic. And Kamalaya Wellness Sanctuary in Thailand is highlighting the vital role the digestive system plays in everything from immunity and energy levels to mental wellbeing.

Drawing on the latest scientific understanding alongside holistic healing traditions, the award-winning wellness sanctuary's dedicated Enriched Gut programme is designed to help guests restore balance from the inside out.

"All disease begins in the gut" is often attributed to the ancient Greek physician Hippocrates. More than 2,000 years later, a growing body of scientific research continues to reinforce just how central the gut is to overall health. Far more than a digestive organ, the gut is now recognised as a key influence on the immune system, metabolism and the gut-brain connection.

At the centre of gut health is the microbiome: the vast community of bacteria, fungi and other microorganisms that inhabit the digestive tract. Around 70% of the body's immune cells are in the gut, helping explain why an imbalance can have effects that extend far beyond digestion. Persistent bloating, fatigue, disturbed sleep, skin issues and recurring minor infections can all be signs that the microbiome is out of balance, while research increasingly points to the important role that nutrition, stress management and sleep play in maintaining a healthy digestive system.

"When we look after the gut, we are not tending to a single organ; we are supporting the ground on which immunity, metabolism and mood are built," says Rita Castanhito, Naturopath and Wellness Consultant at Kamalaya Wellness Sanctuary.

She adds: "The gut tends to signal when it needs attention. The clearest signs are digestive: persistent bloating, discomfort after meals or changes in bowel habits. Low energy, disturbed sleep, skin changes and frequent minor infections can also point towards an imbalance worth exploring. No single symptom confirms a problem, but when several persist, they are the body's invitation to look more closely."

Nutrition plays a central role in supporting the microbiome. A varied diet rich in fibre, healthy fats, quality protein and minimally processed foods helps nourish beneficial gut bacteria, while consistent eating habits and good sleep support the body's natural rhythms. Together, these everyday choices provide the foundation for long-term digestive health and overall wellbeing.

Kamalaya's Enriched Gut programme combines personalised nutritional guidance with a predominantly plant-based, nutrient-rich approach designed to support the microbiome and optimise digestive health. Alongside tailored meal plans, guests receive treatments including Chi Nei Tsang abdominal massage, Ayurvedic Kati Vasti therapy, ozone therapy and targeted infusion therapies.

The programme also incorporates yoga, meditation, pranayama and Traditional Chinese Medicine therapies including acupuncture and cupping, with guidance from Kamalaya's multidisciplinary team of wellness consultants, naturopaths, Traditional Chinese Medicine practitioners and movement specialists, helping guests develop sustainable habits that extend well beyond their stay.

"So much of how we feel each day begins quietly, in the gut," says Rita. "Nourish it well, and you give the whole body a steadier foundation to thrive on."

Cleartrip's Book@0 Lets Travellers Book Hotel Rooms Now and Pay When They're Ready

~No card details needed. Pay only when you're closer to your stay across 7 lakh+ domestic & international hotels~

National, July , 2026: For many Indian travellers, the hardest part of booking a hotel is not finding the right one; it is committing financially before plans are confirmed. Cleartrip, a Flipkart company, today launched Book@0, which lets travellers reserve any hotel and room at ₹0, with no card details required, and pay only when they are closer to their stay.

Available across 7 lakh+ domestic & international hotels, Book@0 addresses one of the most common challenges travellers face today, which is wanting to lock in a great hotel and price while plans are still evolving. Customers can now reserve their preferred stay without an immediate financial commitment.

With Book@0, a customer selects a hotel and room, confirms the booking at ₹0, and completes payment on the app within a defined window ahead of the stay date. There is no cancellation fee, entering card details, and no risk of losing the room and rate in the interim.

Akhil Malik, Head, Hotels, Cleartrip, said, “A growing number of Indian travellers, especially Gen Z booking on their phones, want to plan without the pressure of an immediate financial commitment. Book@0 is built for that mindset. It removes the last real barrier between a traveller and the hotel they want, and we expect it to meaningfully expand access to online hotel booking for people who have stayed on the sidelines.”

Book@0 is expected to be especially valuable for leisure travellers who plan their trips well in advance, as well as international travellers, for whom last-minute changes or cancellations can often lead to real financial loss. This is part of Cleartrip's broader commitment to democratising travel and solving for every traveller pain point. Book@0 marks a major milestone in that journey, addressing the need for greater booking flexibility. Over the next two to three months, Cleartrip will continue building on its hotel momentum with a series of product launches focused on making booking and stay experiences simpler and more flexible for Indian travellers.

Antara Cruises to invest over ₹500 crore to transform Assam into India's luxury river cruise hub

Antara Cruises to invest ₹500 crore as India's river cruise sector gathers momentum

Guwahati, July , 2026:  Antara Cruises, South Asia's largest luxury river cruise operator, plans to invest over ₹500 crore over the next five years to strengthen the Brahmaputra as India's premier luxury river cruise destination. The investment will support the expansion of the company's fleet, tourism infrastructure, and the broader cruise ecosystem in Assam.

The announcement follows a meeting between Raj Singh, Founder & Managing Director of Antara Cruises, and Assam Chief Secretary Ravi Kota, IAS, during which the company shared its long-term roadmap for developing river cruise tourism in the state.

The investment comes at a time when India's river cruise sector is gaining significant momentum. According to the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, river cruise voyages on India's National Waterways grew by 19.4% during FY2024-25. Under the Government's Cruise Bharat Mission, 51 river cruise circuits are planned across 14 states and three Union Territories by 2027. In comparison, Europe's mature river cruise market welcomed 1.39 million passengers in 2024, generating €3.54 billion in ticket sales, underscoring the significant opportunity for India to emerge as a global destination for premium river-based tourism.

As part of its expansion, Antara Cruises will deploy four new purpose-built luxury river cruise vessels on the Brahmaputra, commencing with the launch of the first vessel next year, followed by the induction of one vessel each subsequent year. Each vessel is being specially designed to accommodate 80 guests and engineered for the unique navigational conditions of the Brahmaputra, incorporating shallow-draft technology and full compliance with the latest Inland Vessels Act and Indian Register of Shipping (IRS) standards. These new vessels will complement MV Ganga Vilas, the company's flagship luxury river cruise vessel operating on the Brahmaputra, significantly expanding Assam's capacity to attract high-value domestic and international tourism.

"Our discussions with the Chief Secretary were extremely encouraging. Our priority is to build an enabling ecosystem for river cruising through improved jetties, road connectivity, shore power, safety, and seamless guest movement across destinations. With the right infrastructure in place, Assam has the potential to become India's leading river cruise destination. Around the world, river cruising has transformed regional economies by bringing high-value travellers to destinations beyond major cities. We believe the Brahmaputra can do the same for Northeast India, creating sustainable employment, supporting local businesses and positioning India on the global luxury river cruise map," said Raj Singh, Founder & Managing Director, Antara Cruises.

Antara Cruises has been working closely with the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways and the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) to advance the development of luxury river cruising in the region. The meeting with the state administration formed part of the company's ongoing efforts to align its long-term plans with Assam's tourism and infrastructure priorities.

The new vessels will incorporate several sustainability-focused technologies, including onboard sewage treatment plants, advanced water filtration systems, shore power connectivity to minimise emissions while berthed, and WWF-approved dolphin deterrent technology to help protect the Brahmaputra's fragile ecosystem.

"These are purpose-built ships for the Brahmaputra. Every aspect of their design reflects the river's unique characteristics while adhering to the highest environmental and operational standards," Singh added.

Sharing details of the meeting on X, Assam Chief Secretary Ravi Kota said the proposed investment has the potential to position Assam as a globally recognised luxury river cruise destination while generating around 5,000 direct and indirect employment opportunities. He also emphasised the importance of creating high-value tourism experiences, strengthening local enterprises and artisans, and building skills among Assamese youth in hospitality, cruise operations, culinary services and marine engineering.

With its proposed investment, fleet expansion and focus on sustainable infrastructure, Antara Cruises aims to establish the Brahmaputra as one of Asia's leading inland luxury cruise destinations while contributing to Assam's tourism-led economic growth.

AIRDA Advocates Destination-Led Growth for India’s Tourism Economy at FAITH Tourism Conclave 2026

Highlights need for integrated planning, infrastructure & differentiated policy support.

New Delhi,  July 2026: Vikram Lalvani, Chairman of the All India Resort Development Association (AIRDA) called for a more integrated tourism ecosystem that connects policy, infrastructure, hospitality investment, consumer trust and destination development.

Speaking at the FAITH Tourism Conclave 2026 during the panel discussion, “Building a Seamless Tourism Ecosystem for India,” Lalvani highlighted the role of vacation ownership and organised leisure hospitality in creating recurring demand, supporting regional economies and enabling investment in emerging destinations. The conclave was held on 16–17 July in New Delhi, under the theme “Incredible India: Invaluable Economics.”

With India recording nearly 2.95 billion domestic tourist visits in 2024, Lalvani said domestic leisure tourism should increasingly be viewed as economic infrastructure—capable of directing investment, employment and consumption into regional and non-metro markets.

He also called for differentiated policy support for leisure destinations, noting that wildlife, wellness, pilgrimage, heritage and remote resort markets face very different infrastructure, environmental and operating requirements. Swadesh Darshan 2.0’s destination-centric approach is an important step in this direction, with 53 projects worth ₹2,208.31 crore sanctioned across the country.

Vikram Lalvani, Chairman, AIRDA, and Managing Director & CEO, Sterling Holiday Resorts, said: “India’s tourism opportunity cannot be unlocked through room supply alone. Domestic leisure must be recognised as economic infrastructure, supported by policies designed around complete destinations rather than individual assets. Vacation ownership adds a further advantage by creating predictable demand, enabling investment in emerging markets and supporting stable regional employment.”

He added that this requires tourism policy to recognise domestic leisure as a driver of regional economic development, while moving from uniform, property-level interventions to destination-specific planning. Better last-mile connectivity, streamlined approvals, sustainability-linked incentives and public-private partnerships can improve the viability of emerging leisure markets, to support local employment, local supply chains and private investment in new tourism circuits.

AIRDA is the nodal industry body for India’s vacation ownership, resort-development, and mixed-use resort hospitality sector working with government, hospitality operators and travel-trade partners to advance policy advocacy, ethical standards, consumer trust and sustainable destination growth. The association represents more than five lakh vacation-ownership member households across 20 member organisations. 

The FAITH Tourism Conclave brought together policymakers, tourism associations, hospitality leaders and state tourism representatives to discuss tourism’s contribution to economic growth, employment and regional development.

India Is Sleeping Less, Stressing More. ELE|NA's Pillars of Vitality Offer a Blueprint to Restore the Body's Natural Rhythm

The award-winning wellness brand, ELE|NA, introduces a six-pillar framework to counter 'Biological Static' — the modern state of stress, broken sleep, and constant stimulation — now within reach of Indian travellers, from Vantara Niwas in Jamnagar and ELE|NA Ayur at Sadar Manzil Heritage by Atmosphere in Bhopal, to its island spas across the Maldives.

MUMBAI, INDIA – July 21, 2026: The numbers tell the story of a nation running on empty: a 2026 LocalCircles survey found that 61 per cent of Indians now get fewer than six hours of uninterrupted sleep a night — up sharply from 50 per cent in 2022 — while an Indeed India study reports that 72 per cent of Indian employees have experienced burnout in their current role. Against this backdrop, ELE|NA, the award-winning international wellness brand, has unveiled the Pillars of Vitality — a holistic framework designed not to treat isolated symptoms, but to restore the body's natural rhythm.

At the heart of the philosophy is a condition ELE|NA calls Biological Static: the state in which stress, poor sleep, inflammation, and constant digital stimulation leave the body unable to regulate, repair, and thrive. For India's urban professionals — juggling long working hours, commutes, and always-on screens — it is a condition many will recognise, even if they have never had a name for it.

The Pillars of Vitality are built on a simple belief: the body is an intelligent, self-regulating system. Rather than chasing quick fixes, the framework focuses on Systemic Restoration — guiding guests from imbalance to Systemic Flow through six interconnected dimensions of wellbeing:

• TouchFlow – restores physical and energetic flow.

• SoulVibe – quiets mental static and cultivates emotional balance and inner calm.

• ReFine – reveals healthy, radiant skin.

• SleepSync – rebalances the body's natural sleep rhythm.

• BodyFit – builds strength, mobility, and resilience through movement, breathwork, and functional fitness.

• FoodDelight – nourishes the gut microbiome to fuel body and mind.

The pillars come to life through signature rituals such as the Holistic Body Ritual, a head-to-toe restorative journey, and the SleepSync Villa Experience, a 90-minute in-residence ritual that prepares body and mind for deep, restorative sleep — a direct answer to India's growing sleep deficit. Every experience is delivered under the brand's Wellness Your Way™ philosophy, tailored to where each guest is on their own journey.

"Across India's cities, we are seeing Biological Static everywhere — bodies held in a constant state of alert by stress, screens, and shrinking sleep," said Heidi Grimwood, Senior Vice President, ELE|NA (Atmosphere Wellness). "The answer is not another quick fix or a weekend of pampering. It is restoring the body's own intelligence — its innate ability to heal, adapt, and flourish. The Pillars of Vitality give every guest a personalised path back to their natural rhythm, whether that journey begins at one of our sanctuaries in India or on an island in the Maldives."

The launch speaks directly to one of India's strongest lifestyle shifts. The country's wellness tourism market is estimated at over USD 30 billion in 2026, with digital-detox escapes its fastest-growing segment, as urban millennials and dual-income households increasingly treat wellness travel not as indulgence but as an investment in long-term health. For these travellers, the Pillars of Vitality are accessible at Minerals by ELE|NA at Vantara Niwas, Jamnagar, while ELE|NA Ayur at Sadar Manzil Heritage by Atmosphere, Bhopal, offers thoughtfully curated wellness rituals inspired by timeless traditions and delivered through the brand's personalised approach to wellbeing. Guests can also discover ELE|NA's award-winning wellness offerings across Atmosphere Core's resorts in the Maldives, just a short flight from every major Indian metro.

As wellness continues to evolve, ELE|NA believes the future lies not in treating individual symptoms, but in restoring the body's innate ability to heal, adapt, and flourish. The Pillars of Vitality offer a modern blueprint for exactly that — lasting vitality, rather than temporary relief.

LOYA Hosts an Evening of Reflection and Dialogue with Author Sanjiv Sarin

Bengaluru, July 2026 — LOYA, at Taj West End, Bengaluru, presented an intimate and thoughtfully curated literary soirée as part of its evocative LOYA QISSA series, centred around The Other Side of the Mountain: A CEO’s Journey through Spirituality, authored by Sanjiv Sarin former CEO & MD, Tata Coffee Ltd.

Elegantly moderated by Ms. Vinita Bali, former CEO of Britannia Industries and Independent Director, the immersive dialogue traversed the delicate intersection of the personal and the professional. It traced Mr. Sarin’s journey from the corporate boardroom to a deeper exploration of self-awareness, purpose, and conscious leadership. Drawing from the book’s central premise, the exchange highlighted how the most meaningful transformations in leadership often unfold not in positions of authority, but in the quiet, reflective spaces between decisions.

The evening brought together a distinguished gathering of business leaders, entrepreneurs, hospitality professionals, and members of Bengaluru’s discerning cultural milieu. The conversation offered a nuanced exploration of leadership, resilience, purpose, and introspection—interweaving insights from the author’s journey with universal reflections on growth, transition, and the evolving definition of success.

Sanjiv Sarin, Author of The Other Side of the Mountain, remarked, “I wrote this book for young and midcareer executives who are experiencing and exploring the self through their corporate journeys. The fact that it is now reaching boardrooms and senior leadership is great . What unfolded this evening was exactly that a room of individuals willing to engage with questions that resist easy answers. Such dialogue is rare, and the setting offered the perfect canvas for it.”

Taljinder Singh, Senior Vice-President and Brand Custodian, IHCL, added, “At its essence, LOYA Qissa is designed to bring people together through stories, ideas, and experiences that spark meaningful conversations. The Other Side of the Mountain is a compelling reflection on leadership, purpose, and personal growth, and we were delighted to host an evening that encouraged thoughtful dialogue and deeper connections among our guests.”

The evening reaffirmed LOYA QISSA’s vision of fostering an elevated platform where dialogue transcends the culinary, bringing together diverse voices, perspectives, and ideas through thoughtfully curated cultural and intellectual experiences.

Planet Hollywood Thane Curates a Month of Distinctive Culinary Experiences this July

This July, Planet Hollywood Thane invites guests to discover a thoughtfully curated calendar of culinary experiences celebrating seasonal flavours, regional traditions, live entertainment and contemporary dining across its signature restaurants and social spaces.

The month begins with the much-loved Planet Brunch on 5 and 19 July, followed by Monsoon Social on 12 July, bringing together nostalgic monsoon-inspired street food favourites in a vibrant setting. Closing the month is the Saltwater Brunch on 26 July, a celebration of India's diverse coastal cuisine, featuring regional delicacies inspired by the country's shoreline.

Designed for business professionals and corporate gatherings, Planet Dailies presents its Boardroom lunch experience with specially curated business meal packages. At Banaraas, guests can savour the rich culinary heritage of Varanasi through the traditional Kashi Darbaar Thali and chef-curated kebab selections available throughout the month.

Evenings take on a relaxed monsoon charm at The Monsoon Lounge at Fame Garden, offering live chaat stations, masala chai and freshly brewed filter coffee in an inviting outdoor ambience. Music lovers can also look forward to After Hours: Velvet Unplugged on 25 July, an intimate evening of live performances complemented by curated small plates and signature beverages.

Throughout July, beer enthusiasts can enjoy exclusive Brew Society offers, while PHPAD introduces its refreshing BOBA beverage collection with special promotional pricing. Members of the Viiking Privilege programme can also enjoy exclusive dining privileges, including savings of up to 30% on food and 20% on beverages across participating outlets.

From leisurely weekend brunches and authentic regional cuisine to monsoon-inspired evenings and engaging live entertainment, Planet Hollywood Thane offers a vibrant dining destination for families, corporate guests and leisure travellers throughout the month of July.

‘One State, One Destination’ Initiative to Give New Momentum to Tourism in Sindhudurg

Sindhudurg, July 2026: Under the chairpersonship of Ms Trupti Dhodmise (IAS), District Collector of Sindhudurg, Government of Maharashtra, a preliminary planning meeting was held recently at the District Collector's Office to prepare a roadmap for the integrated development of tourism across Sindhudurg district. The exercise is being carried out under the state government's flagship 'One State, One Destination' initiative.

Much of the discussion centred on how the district's tourism potential could be better realised through stronger destination planning, upgraded infrastructure, improved amenities for visitors, wider digital promotion, and greater involvement of local communities. The meeting also addressed developing new tourism circuits, giving local attractions a distinct brand identity, promoting regional art and cuisine, and making the overall visitor experience more rewarding.

Speaking at the meeting, Ms Trupti Dhodmise (IAS), District Collector of Sindhudurg, Government of Maharashtra, said that Sindhudurg brings together a rare mix of pristine beaches, historic forts, rich biodiversity, rural tourism, and vibrant local culture. Realising this potential, she said, will require close coordination among all concerned departments, along with active participation from local communities, a joint effort essential to positioning Sindhudurg as a globally recognised destination under the ‘One State, One Destination’ initiative.

Shri Mangesh Joshi (IAS), Director, Directorate of Tourism, Government of Maharashtra, said, "The One State, One Destination initiative seeks to unlock the unique tourism potential of every region through an integrated and sustainable approach to development. Sindhudurg is blessed with exceptional natural, cultural and heritage assets that give it the potential to emerge as a world-class destination. Through coordinated planning, infrastructure development, destination branding and active community participation, we remain committed to creating quality tourism experiences that also generate greater employment and livelihood opportunities for local communities. Once the preliminary round of consultations concludes, all concerned departments will be asked to submit detailed proposals, which will then feed into a comprehensive action plan for the district."

The meeting was attended by Resident Deputy Collector, Shri Machhindra Sukte, Deputy Collectors, Ms Pratibha Varale and Ms Aarti Desai, Deputy Director, Konkan Region, Directorate of Tourism, Dr Pradnya Manohar, Executive Engineer, Directorate of Tourism, Shri Akash Chakor, District Planning Officer, Shri Yashwant Budhawale and officials from various departments.

Detailed discussions were held on identifying tourism destinations, developing essential infrastructure, sanitation, transportation, tourist information centres, digital outreach, and mechanisms to encourage public participation. Representatives from tourism-related organisations and stakeholders also shared valuable suggestions for the district's tourism development.

5 Luxury Interior Concepts Transforming High-End Residential SpacesBy Jason Samuel, Managing Director, House of Swamiraj

As society moves towards a more environmentally conscious future, the idea of premium home interiors is also expanding in scope. Beyond luxurious rooms and expensive furnishings, residents are now placing greater emphasis on living spaces that combine biophilic architectural elements with personalised design choices to create a home people want to return to after a long day. Here are five interior design ideas that are transforming luxury homes into spaces that are both elegant and comfortable to live in.

1. Integrated Indoor-Outdoor Transitions

One of the biggest shifts in luxury design is the focus on connecting the home to its surroundings. This isn't just about having a large window; it's about using expansive sliding glass systems that disappear into the walls, removing the barrier between the living room and the patio. Designers are also using the same stone and wood flooring for both the interior and exterior to create a visually seamless flow, making the space feel twice as large while allowing natural light and fresh airflow to enter.

2. Smart Technology with Invisible Integration

Home technology in contemporary luxury residences now blends seamlessly into the overall interior design. Architects are incorporating smart technologies where everyday household elements, such as charging points and other electronic fixtures, are built into the walls for a cleaner, more aesthetic appearance. This not only maintains an uncluttered interior but also offers advanced features such as automated lighting and temperature control that adjust themselves throughout the day.

3. Texture-Focused Minimalism

Earlier, minimalism often felt cold and uninviting, more like a gallery than a home. The updated approach uses a simple colour palette while relying heavily on varied textures to add warmth. Instead of flat painted walls, designers are incorporating finishes such as limewash, natural stone, and wood panelling. Layering materials like wool, leather, and matte metals creates interiors that feel refined and visually engaging without relying on bright colours to define the space.

4. Dedicated Private Wellness Spaces

The traditional master bathroom is being replaced by what many now call a wellness suite. Homeowners are dedicating entire sections of their homes to health and relaxation, incorporating features such as built-in saunas, steam showers, and cold plunge pools. These are professionally designed spaces with acoustic panels to maintain quiet, along with carefully planned lighting that promotes relaxation. The goal is to recreate the experience of a high-end spa while tailoring it to an individual's daily routine.

5. Quiet Luxury Through Refined Minimalism

Gone are the days when luxury was loud. Homeowners now prefer spaces designed with minimal elements that create comfort rather than follow expensive design trends. To achieve this sense of quiet luxury, designers carefully select materials such as hand-honed stone, unfinished wood, and heavy linens to create an experience that can be appreciated through touch, without relying on bold colours for visual impact.

India-Linked Atmosphere Core Marks European Debut with Borgo Monchiero Heritage

Atmosphere Core, the hospitality company co-founded by Indian entrepreneur Salil Panigrahi and currently expanding its footprint across India, has marked its entry into Europe with the opening of BORGO MONCHIERO HERITAGE by Atmosphere in Italy's UNESCO-listed Langhe region.

The opening is a significant milestone in the company's global growth journey, making Europe the latest addition to a portfolio that spans the Maldives and an expanding collection of hotels and resorts across India. It also reflects the growing international presence of hospitality brands with strong Indian leadership.

Opening on 16 July 2026, the restored 18th-century monastery has been transformed into a 25-key luxury heritage retreat, offering authentic Italian hospitality through heritage architecture, regional gastronomy, wellness experiences and curated cultural immersions.

Please find the press release and high-resolution images attached for your reference. We would be delighted if you could consider this for editorial coverage. Should you be interested, we would also be happy to facilitate an interaction with Salil Panigrahi.

Meliá Chiang Mai's Meliá Go Green Initiative Tops 6,650 Trees Planted

CHIANG MAI, Thailand (July 20, 2026) – Meliá Chiang Mai's staff have helped regenerate more than seven acres of seasonally dry tropical forest in northern Thailand by planting 6,650 native trees through the hotel's ongoing Meliá Go Green initiative, supporting biodiversity and forest restoration in one of the country's most ecologically significant regions.

Almost 180 hotel team members joined the Doi Suthep Nature Center on June 26, 2026, to plant the latest 800 native trees across two rai in Mae Taeng and Mae Rim in Chiang Mai’s Doi Suthep-Pui National Park.

The 13th Meliá Go Green activity brought together volunteers to plant carefully selected native species that will help restore the area's natural forest ecosystem, including Quercus semiserrata, Castanopsis diversifolia, Ficus capillipes and Antidesma bunius, among others.

Working in partnership with the Doi Suthep Nature Center, Meliá Chiang Mai has supported forest restoration efforts since 2022, helping regenerate degraded areas with native tree species that strengthen biodiversity, improve watershed health and create habitat for wildlife. The forests associated with Doi Suthep-Pui National Park are among northern Thailand's richest natural ecosystems, home to more than 300 bird species and nearly 2,000 species of ferns and flowering plants.

"Meliá Go Green has become so much more than a regular volunteer activity," said Meliá Chiang Mai General Manager Marc Selinger. "Our team is making a tangible contribution to restoring northern Thailand's forests with the Doi Suthep Nature Center to help protect biodiversity and leave a positive environmental legacy for future generations."

The tree-planting initiative forms part of Meliá Chiang Mai's wider commitment to responsible tourism and community engagement. Throughout the hotel, sustainability initiatives are designed to reduce environmental impact and support local people and culture.

The hotel's 360-degree cuisine programme champions locally-sourced chemical-free, seasonal ingredients, and minimising food waste. The hotel works closely with farmers, universities and their students, and communities to encourage sustainability measures that make the food system more resilient.

The GALLERY social enterprise in the hotel lobby showcases handcrafted products created by local artisans and community enterprises. The enterprise helps preserve traditional skills and generate sustainable incomes in communities in need.

Redefining Hospitality Beyond Stays: The Orchid Hotel Mumbai Hosts a Special Experience for students from Aawhan Palak Sangh

Mumbai, July 2026: As part of its continued commitment to giving back to the community, The Orchid Hotel Mumbai recently hosted a special afternoon for children from Aawhan Palak Sangh, an NGO that works with specially challenged children and their families.

Held at the hotel's Chancery banquet hall, the initiative brought together 15 specially abled students, along with their parents and teachers, for a memorable experience filled with learning, creativity and celebration.

The visit began with a warm welcome, followed by a guided tour of the hotel. The children explored some of the property's key spaces, including the award-winning South of Vindhyas, a specialty  restaurant at The Orchid Hotel, Mumbai, inspired by food served in 5 states – Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, Telangana, Tamil Nadu and Karnataka, and the Main Kitchen, giving them a glimpse into the world of hospitality. They proceeded to a cozy Privé Lounge, overlooking the runway, on the seventh floor, where they enjoyed watching aircraft take off and land, a moment that sparked excitement and curiosity among the children.

The afternoon featured light-hearted musical performances by members of The Orchid team, creating a cheerful atmosphere. Parents, teachers and children were also invited to share a few words and showcase their talents, making the gathering interactive and personal.

One of the most enjoyable moments of the day was the cupcake decorating activity, organized by pastry Chef – Chef Reshma Bhosale and team.  The children enthusiastically decorated their cupcakes with colorful toppings before coming together for a joyful cake-cutting celebration.

The hotel's chefs also interacted with the children, sharing their passion for food and hospitality before serving a specially curated vegetarian lunch featuring gourmet dishes by the culinary team.

Speaking about the initiative, Gaurav Shiva, General Manager, The Orchid Hotel Mumbai, said, "Hospitality is at its best when it brings people together and creates moments that stay with them. It was truly heartwarming to welcome the children, parents and teachers from Aawhan Palak Sangh to The Orchid. Their energy, curiosity and smiles filled our hotel with positivity. We hope they left with happy memories, just as we did. As a responsible hospitality brand, we remain committed to creating experiences that celebrate inclusion, kindness and the spirit of community."

We were honored to have Dr. Vithal Indira Venkatesh Kamat, Mr. Vishal Kamat, and Ms. Aditi Kamat grace the occasion with their presence. 

Their heartfelt and inspiring words encouraged the students to dream bigger, believe in themselves, and embrace the values of compassion and sustainability. Their interaction added a truly special touch to the event, making the day not only memorable but also deeply meaningful for every young participant present.

The initiative reflects The Orchid Hotel Mumbai's belief that hospitality goes beyond offering exceptional stays—it is also about building meaningful connections and creating experiences that make a positive difference in the lives of people and the community it serves.

Game Nights Just Got Better: Good Flippin' Burgers Extends Hours Till 3 AM

This FIFA season, elevate every match-night gathering with Good Flippin' Burgers, now delivering till 3:00 AM, adding more flavour to every screening.

The biggest football nights deserve an equally legendary spread, and Good Flippin' Burgers is making sure fans don't miss a bite. As football fever takes over and late-night screenings become the norm, Good Flippin' Burgers is extending its delivery hours, ensuring your match-day cravings are sorted from the opening whistle to the final goal.

Whether you're hosting friends for a screening or settling in for a nail-biting game, Good Flippin' Burgers has everything you need for the ultimate football feast. Bite into crowd favourites like the Cheese Bomb, The Cluckinator and The Kerfuffle, or dig into Cheesy Fries, flavour-packed Chicken Wings, Wraps and Hot Dogs that are perfect for sharing around the screen.

No match night is complete without the perfect accompaniments. Pair your meal with refreshing Flippinades and indulgent desserts like Chocolate Churro Bites to keep the celebrations going, whether your team is lifting the trophy or you're simply enjoying the thrill of the game.

With deliveries available until 3 AM fans no longer have to worry about halftime hunger strikes or post-match cravings. Simply order in, gather your squad and let Good Flippin' Burgers fuel every goal, save, and celebration.

Available at all Good Flippin' Burgers outlets across Mumbai, Pune, Delhi, Hyderabad, Bengaluru, and Chennai, as well as on Swiggy and Zomato, with dine-in available until 12:00 AM across all cities. For outlets located within shopping malls, operating hours are subject to the respective mall's business hours.

MAYFAIR Elixir Deepens Eastern India Legacy with the Signing of a Premium Property in UNESCO-Listed Santiniketan

MAYFAIR Elixir, the growth and expansion arm of MAYFAIR Hotels & Resorts, has announced the signing of a new retreat in Santiniketan, West Bengal, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in September 2023 for its legacy of art, education and cultural exchange, rooted in the vision of Nobel Laureate Rabindranath Tagore. More than the addition of a new destination, the signing reaffirms the Group’s commitment to creating world-class hospitality experiences in destinations of exceptional cultural and experiential significance.

Announced on the auspicious occasion of Jagannath Rath Yatra, the signing celebrates a relationship that extends beyond geography. From its origins in Odisha to its enduring presence in West Bengal, the MAYFAIR Group has grown alongside the cultural landscape of Eastern India. With Santiniketan becoming its fifth project in the state, the Group further strengthens its commitment to a region united by shared heritage, artistic traditions and a timeless spirit of hospitality.

Set amidst the serene landscapes of Santiniketan, the upcoming property will seamlessly blend contemporary luxury with the destination’s distinctive cultural character. Designed as an immersive retreat, it will cater to discerning travellers, cultural enthusiasts and intimate celebrations seeking authentic experiences, personalised service and the signature warmth synonymous with the MAYFAIR brand.

Speaking on the occasion, Rajendra Chatterjee, CEO & Managing Director of WESTROAD Group, which owns the property, said, “Santiniketan is more than a destination. It is an emotion that celebrates creativity, learning and Rabindranath Tagore’s legacy. We wanted a hospitality partner that understands the importance of preserving this essence while delivering exceptional guest experiences. MAYFAIR Group’s expertise, its deep understanding of regional culture and unwavering commitment to excellence made it the natural choice. We look forward to creating a landmark experience in Santiniketan with MAYFAIR Elixir.”

Commenting on the signing, Randhir Gupta, Vice President – Commercial & Business Development, MAYFAIR Hotels & Resorts, said, “Santiniketan has long been one of India’s most celebrated cultural destinations. Yet, the market has remained underserved in the premium hospitality segment. This signing is a strategic addition to our growing portfolio, allowing us to introduce the MAYFAIR experience to a destination of global significance. Santiniketan perfectly aligns with our vision of expanding into culturally rich destinations with long-term tourism potential.”

Alongside expanding its footprint, the company is also developing differentiated hospitality concepts and brands that respond to the evolving preferences of today’s discerning travellers.

Sharing the Group’s vision, Bjorn DeNiese, Managing Director, MAYFAIR Elixir, said, “This marks an exciting chapter in the growth journey of MAYFAIR Elixir. As we expand our footprint across India, our vision is not simply to add destinations, but to create hospitality experiences that celebrate the unique character and cultural identity of every place we enter. Santiniketan, with its extraordinary legacy of art, literature and learning, embodies the values we believe modern travellers increasingly seek.” He added, “We also see this as the beginning of a dynamic new phase for MAYFAIR Elixir, with new destinations, hospitality concepts and strategic partnerships in the pipeline that will further strengthen our portfolio while carrying forward the trusted legacy of the MAYFAIR Group.”

Slated to open its doors in FY 2028–29, the Santiniketan property aims to propel one of the country’s most celebrated cultural destinations onto the global travel map.

Ladurée Reimagines the Neighbourhood Café, Bringing the Art of Parisian Dining to Every Hour of the Day

National, July 2026 : Across India, Ladurée's cafés and salons have evolved into destinations that offer far more than the French maison's world-renowned pâtisserie. While the brand has long been celebrated for its iconic macarons and exquisite desserts, today Ladurée is redefining the modern neighbourhood café, one where thoughtfully crafted breakfasts, leisurely lunches, afternoon coffee rituals and indulgent desserts come together under one roof. Elegant yet approachable, each café is designed to become a natural part of everyday life, inviting guests to return not only for special occasions but for the moments in between.

As dining habits and consumer preferences continue to evolve, Ladurée has expanded its culinary offering with an all-day menu rooted in premium ingredients, French culinary craftsmanship and seasonality. The maison's philosophy extends beyond indulgence, embracing ingredient-forward dishes that balance nourishment with refinement. Whether it's a working breakfast, a casual lunch, a coffee catch-up or an unhurried weekend meal, Ladurée delivers an experience that combines quality, luxury, comfort and timeless Parisian elegance.

The thoughtfully curated menu reflects this evolution, featuring signature breakfast favourites such as Eggs Benedict and Avocado Toasts alongside vibrant Ladurée salads, handcrafted croque sandwiches, artisanal burgers and comforting pasta dishes prepared with carefully sourced ingredients. 

Freshly baked croissants and viennoiseries, specialty coffees and refreshing beverages complement the savoury selection, while the maison's iconic macarons, millefeuille, éclairs and other French desserts remain the perfect finale. Together, the menu reflects a contemporary approach to elevated dining that celebrates both mindful eating and everyday indulgence.

Speaking on the brand's evolving identity, Chandni Israni (Ck Israni group) said:

"Ladurée has always represented timeless French elegance, but in India we've also been intentional about creating cafés that naturally become part of people's everyday lives; "your café next door" reimagined with French sophistication. Whether someone joins us for breakfast before work, a wholesome lunch, coffee with friends or dessert after dinner, we want every visit to feel welcoming, elevated and memorable. Our all-day dining philosophy reflects the way people increasingly choose to dine today, seeking thoughtful ingredients, exceptional quality and beautiful spaces they can return to, time and again."

Air India Rolls Out Significant Enhancements to Its Mobile App to Elevate the Customer Experience

New capabilities to boost utility and useability of Air India’s mobile app

In-house booking engine, payment platform enhances booking experience

GURUGRAM, July:  Air India, India’s leading global airline, has completed the rollout of a significant set of new capabilities on its globally acclaimed mobile app, further strengthening its commitment to delivering a seamless, customer-centric travel experience. Designed and developed by Air India’s in-house digital teams, the reimagined app is built around the evolving needs of travellers, helping them navigate every stage of their journey with greater convenience and control.

By bringing together booking, payments, airport services, disruption support, baggage tracking, loyalty management and AI-powered assistance in a single digital platform, Air India’s mobile app is now a one-stop travel companion designed to make journeys more convenient, predictable and enjoyable. Some of the significant capabilities rolled out in the revamped Air India mobile app include:

• An in-house booking engine that enriches the booking journey with an intuitive, fast and responsive user interface to search flights, make bookings and add ancillaries from the same platform.

• An in-house payment orchestration platform that eases the payment experience and allows Air India to provide innovative offers to guests ensuring a smoother checkout process.

• Disruption assistance by providing passengers support with hotel accommodation and transportation assistance contextually from the Home screen.

Dr. Satya Ramaswamy, Chief Digital and Technology Officer, Air India, said: "Our mobile app is our flagship channel for engaging with guests and one of the 140-plus world-class digital systems deployed as part of Air India's transformation journey. Every capability we build starts with understanding our guests’ needs with empathy and reducing the stress often associated with travel. The latest enhancements further simplify the travel experience—from booking and payments to airport processes and disruption support—while giving guests more transparency, convenience and control. The strong appreciation we have received from our customers inspires us to continue innovating and making the app even more valuable in the years ahead."

These new capabilities join a rich set of existing popular features, which have been significantly enhanced now for a better guest experience from the App itself. Some of the key enhanced features include:

• A personalised, context-aware home screen presenting upcoming trip details, boarding passes, travel offers and destination inspiration in a simple and visually engaging format.

• Customers can stay informed through the highly popular Flight Status feature, used more than 1.4 million times each month, which provides real-time flight updates, including information about the incoming aircraft operating the flight. The app’s integration with DigiYatra continues to simplify airport journeys, with over 220,000 customers using the feature every month to enjoy a more seamless airport experience.

• The enhanced My Trips section serves as a convenient self-service hub where travellers can manage seats, modify bookings and access meal options with ease, reducing the need for customer support intervention.

• Air India’s pioneering AI.g virtual assistant, the first generative AI-powered assistant in the global airline industry, continues to help customers with a wide range of travel queries, with 26 million customer queries answered so far. Complementing it is the EZ Booking capability, which can generate an entire travel itinerary from a few words entered by the customer.

• Another customer favourite is the app’s baggage tracking feature, used more than 200,000 times every month. The feature allows travellers to monitor their checked baggage across multiple milestones, including on codeshare and interline journeys, and even supports locating delayed baggage through devices such as Apple AirTag and Google-compatible trackers.

• Additional innovations include AEye Vision™, which leverages computer vision technology to retrieve travel information without manual data entry, a comprehensive notification system featuring the exclusive and widely appreciated “Boarding Will Begin Shortly” alert, and a dedicated Maharaja Club section that makes managing loyalty programme benefits simple and convenient.

Some features like My Trips, Flight Status, Baggage Tracking, Food & Beverage menu etc. are available even without connectivity with a unique off-line capability.

Today, the app enjoys a 4.8-star rating on both the Apple App Store and Google Play Store in India, has been downloaded nearly 17 million times globally, serves over 100,000 users every day, and has achieved a Net Promoter Score (NPS) of +61 - making it one of the highest-rated airline apps globally. The app has also received multiple prestigious international awards.

Air India encourages all guests to download the app and experience a more connected, informed and stress-free way to travel.

From Konkan orchards to Arabian souks: Air India cargo transports first international export shipment from Navi Mumbai aboard Air India Express

As Air India Express flight IX207 departed Navi Mumbai International Airport for Abu Dhabi on the morning of 15 July, crates of freshly harvested guavas from Maharashtra's Konkan region and Drumstick Moringa were making their own maiden journey from India's newest international gateway to the UAE. The 1.79-tonne consignment marked the first international cargo movement from Navi Mumbai International Airport, opening a new channel for exporters in western India.

For the farmers and exporters whose produce was aboard the flight, the journey represented more than a routine shipment.

A new gateway opens to global markets

The Boeing 737-8 operating the Navi Mumbai-Abu Dhabi route offers approximately 2.5 tonnes of belly-hold cargo capacity, creating a valuable channel for the movement of perishables and time-sensitive goods from western India. Air India Cargo expects the service to carry around 25 tonnes of cargo each month, helping meet growing demand for fresh Indian produce in the UAE and the wider Gulf region. Air India Express currently operates thrice weekly on the route, providing regular connectivity for exporters seeking faster access to the market.

"Every new route presents an opportunity," said Ramesh Mamidala, Head of Cargo, Air India. "This first export shipment from Navi Mumbai connects growers, traders and businesses in western India directly with one of the region's most important international markets. Fresh produce is highly time-sensitive, and reliable air connectivity plays a critical role in helping Indian exporters reach global consumers while preserving product quality."

The inaugural consignment was dominated by guava (called ‘peru’ in Marathi) from the Konkan belt, a region renowned for its fertile terrain and fruit cultivation. Also on board was Drumstick Moringa, a product increasingly sought after in international markets for its nutritional value and growing popularity among health-conscious consumers. Though modest in weight, the shipment represents the kind of high-value, time-sensitive trade that Air India Cargo is uniquely positioned to support. With regular flights now underway, exporters gain a faster route to overseas buyers, while consumers in Gulf markets gain access to produce harvested just hours earlier in western India.

The science of keeping produce fresh

Behind the shipment is a sophisticated cold-chain network designed to ensure that delicate produce arrives overseas in the same condition in which it was harvested. Fresh fruits and vegetables typically arrive at airport cargo terminals in refrigerated trucks arranged by IATA-approved cargo agents. At origin, the shipments are moved into temperature-controlled facilities maintained between 15°C and 25°C, before being built onto specialised pallets and containers and prepared for international transport.

The process does not end once the aircraft lands. At destination, consignments are again transferred into temperature-regulated environments before final delivery, helping preserve freshness, texture, and shelf life throughout the journey.

For fruits and vegetables, where quality can deteriorate rapidly if exposed to unsuitable conditions, maintaining a stable temperature chain is as important as the flight itself.

Over the past several years, Air India Cargo has steadily strengthened its capabilities to support the growing movement of perishables, pharmaceuticals and other temperature-sensitive commodities across its network. Its cargo operations are supported by specialised equipment, including cool dollies and thermal blankets, designed to minimise temperature fluctuations while shipments move between warehouse and aircraft. The facilities supporting these operations are GDP-certified, aligning with globally recognised standards for the safe, secure and quality-assured handling of temperature-sensitive cargo.

"Cargo is often the unseen enabler of trade," said Mamidala. "When we transport perishable products such as fruits, vegetables or temperature-sensitive pharmaceuticals, speed alone is not enough. Maintaining the integrity of the shipment from origin to destination is equally important. Investments in cold-chain infrastructure and globally certified handling processes are helping us support exporters with the reliability they need."

For growers and exporters across Maharashtra, reliable air cargo links can make the difference between accessing local markets and reaching international consumers willing to pay a premium for fresh produce. "The Gulf has long been a strong market for Indian produce," Mamidala said. "By making additional capacity available from Navi Mumbai, we are creating faster and more efficient pathways for exporters while strengthening India's agricultural export ecosystem. Every shipment represents the efforts of farmers, traders, freight forwarders and logistics partners, and our role is to connect them to opportunities beyond India's borders."

The route's launch comes at a time when demand for fresh fruits, vegetables and other agricultural products continues to rise across the Middle East, further reinforcing the importance of dependable air freight capacity.

For Air India Cargo, the movement of nearly two tonnes of export cargo on the airport's first international flight is an early indication of the potential that lies ahead. In a way, it also represented something much larger: the opening of a new trade corridor connecting India's farms, businesses and entrepreneurs with consumers across the world.

Indians are choosing Nagaland over Goa this monsoon. Cleartrip's PeekABoo Trends Tracker shows why that's not a surprise anymore

National, July, 2026: Once considered a lean season for holidays, the rainy months are now emerging as a preferred travel window, with travellers seeking immersive, nature-led and offbeat experiences. Cleartrip's Peekaboo Trends Tracker shows that monsoon travel is experiencing significant YoY growth across categories, with hotel bookings up over 54% and bus bookings surging by 140%.

“We are now in an Age of Experience, where travel is driven by intent rather than itineraries, and our data this monsoon makes that unmistakably clear. The Indian traveller is not waiting for the perfect season or the obvious destination. They are finding their own”, said Pallavi Saxena, Chief Marketing and Revenue Officer, Cleartrip.

1. Northeast Leads Booking Growth

Nagaland and Arunachal Pradesh recorded the highest growth among all destinations tracked this season, with flight bookings up 62% and hotel bookings increased over 90% year-on-year.

• Hotel bookings increased by over 65% in Shillong and over 60% in Guwahati.

• Flight bookings increased by over 70% for Itanagar and over 50% for Jorhat and Imphal.

The data indicates that demand for the Northeast, which first picked up during the summer travel season, has been sustained through the monsoon months, making it the most consistently strong-performing region in this year's booking data.

1. Hill Destinations See Strong Hotel Demand

Hill destinations experienced significant growth in hotel bookings this year.

• Wayanad saw an increase of over 160%

• Alleppey grew by more than 145%.

• Kodaikanal and Ooty reported sharp increases in hotel bookings, each exceeding 70%.

1. Other Destinations Recording Healthy Growth

Beyond the Northeast and hill circuits, the following destinations recorded healthy increases in hotel bookings:

• Hotel bookings in Goa, Pondicherry, Visakhapatnam and Udaipur top the list, growing by over 110%, 104%, 85% and 50% respectively.

1. Gen Z Lean Towards Unconventional Destinations & Trains as Top Mode of Travel

• Tajikistan, which recorded the highest growth over 245% year-on-year

• Followed by Lakshadweep over 80%

• Muscat and the Philippines (70%), Hubli and Leh over 65% and Tashkent over 54%.

• Train travel data shows Gen Z as the largest age group among train travellers, at 45% of bookings, followed by Millennials at 28%.

This trend aligns with a broader shift in travel behaviour, particularly among Gen Z travellers, who are increasingly prioritising experiential and offbeat travel over conventional, well-established circuits.

1. Booking Behaviour: Solo Travel and Advance Planning Dominate - Flight bookings up by 65% and group bookings by over 25% compared to last year's monsoon.

1. Hotels: Mid-Range Category Gains Share, Short Stays Dominate (Hotel bookings grew by 53.90% year-on-year)

Maharashtra Tourism Department Partners with ABP Tourist Spot 2026 in Kolkata

Mumbai, July 2026: The Maharashtra Tourism Department has extended sponsorship support to ABP Tourist Spot 2026, a prestigious event organised by Ananda Bazar Patrika (ABP Group) in Kolkata from 17th to 19th July 2026. The three-day event offers Maharashtra an important platform to showcase its diverse tourism offerings to a wide audience from across India.

Over the course of three days, ABP Tourist Spot 2026 will bring together discussions, exhibitions and interactive sessions covering tourism, culture, heritage, gastronomy, experiential travel, adventure tourism, spiritual tourism and emerging travel trends. Through its participation, Maharashtra Tourism Department aims to strengthen the state's visibility as one of India's most preferred travel destinations, while deepening its connection with audiences in a region that has traditionally shown strong interest in the state's forts, coastline and pilgrimage circuits.

Maharashtra Tourism Department is participating in the event by setting up a pavilion primarily to promote the state's tourist destinations outside the state. As part of the sponsorship, Maharashtra Tourism Department will use the pavilion to showcase the state's rich and diverse tourism experiences, including its UNESCO World Heritage Sites, forts, beaches, wildlife destinations, pilgrimage circuits, rural tourism, film tourism, and MICE tourism. The pavilion will also spotlight the investment opportunities under the Maharashtra Tourism Policy, encouraging greater engagement from industry stakeholders and travellers alike.

Speaking on the association, the Honourable Minister of Tourism, Government of Maharashtra, Shri Shambhuraj Desai, said, "Maharashtra has always welcomed travellers with open arms, and our presence at ABP Tourist Spot 2026 is a step towards bringing that invitation closer to the people of Kolkata and eastern India. We look forward to sharing the many faces of our state, from its ancient forts to its vibrant festivals."

Shri Sanjay Khandare (IAS), Additional Chief Secretary (Tourism), Government of Maharashtra, added, "Platforms like ABP Tourist Spot allow us to engage directly with travellers and industry partners in new markets. Our participation reflects Maharashtra's commitment to expanding its footprint as a preferred destination for every kind of traveller, whether they seek heritage, adventure or simply a change of pace."

Shri Mangesh Joshi (IAS), Director, Directorate of Tourism, Government of Maharashtra, noted, "This collaboration gives us the chance to highlight not just our heritage and natural beauty, but also the investment opportunities available under the Maharashtra Tourism Policy. We hope it opens doors for greater engagement from both travellers and industry stakeholders."

Through its participation in ABP Tourist Spot 2026, Maharashtra Tourism Department aims to further position the state as a world-class destination for sustainable, experiential and year-round tourism, while expanding its outreach and strengthening its presence in key domestic markets.