The state government of Goa is rolling out free public WiFi hotspots at 75 locations and installing 11 new 4G mobile towers to enhance network coverage. These initiatives are part of Goa’s strategy to attract digital nomads and boost creativity among residents. High-speed internet accessibility and the development of coworking spaces along iconic beaches aim to position the state as a prime destination for remote workers and freelancers.
Goa has outlined plans to achieve 100% internet connectivity, even in remote villages, encouraging visitors to explore the state’s hinterlands. Additionally, the “Let’s Goa” platform has been introduced to integrate tourism with technology. The platform lists hotels, activities, and other services such as food and shopping to streamline bookings and inventory management. Goa has also launched the One Map Goa GIS (Geographic Information System) portal to enhance state planning, infrastructure development, and governance.
Treebo Hospitality Ventures has introduced a premium hotel brand, Medalio, targeting the mid-market segment. The first Medalio property, located in Udaipur, features 30 rooms, a swimming pool, and a spa. This move aligns with Treebo’s strategy to offer accommodations in the INR 3,500–6,000 ($41–$77) range, catering to India’s expanding upper middle-income segment.
The company also continues its collaboration with Radisson Hotel Group, recently opening a Park Inn & Suites by Radisson property in Thrissur. This partnership aims to establish 150 hotels under the Park Inn & Suites brand over the next decade.
Thailand has welcomed over 2 million Indian tourists in 2024, surpassing pre-pandemic levels. The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) highlighted India’s importance as a key market. Measures such as extending the 60-day visa waiver for Indian visitors and implementing an electronic visa (e-visa) system have further facilitated travel. While air connectivity has yet to fully recover, recent additions by airlines have brought flight capacity closer to pre-pandemic levels.
Paytm’s travel insights for 2024 revealed a 44% increase in bookings for concerts, indicating a growing trend of experience-driven travel. Younger travelers under 25 accounted for 36% of bus bookings, with affordability as a key priority. Mumbai and Dubai emerged as the most-searched destinations, while visa-free locations like Almaty and Kenya saw increased interest.
The data also indicated a trend of late-night travel planning, with 30% of bookings made after 8 PM.
Luxury hotel chain The Postcard Hotel has debuted in Assam with a boutique property at the Durrung Tea Estate. The 12-key hotel spans 1,400 acres of tea plantation, offering an immersive experience in Northeast India. The Postcard Hotel now operates 10 properties, with plans to open five more in states like Himachal Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Uttarakhand.
The Oberoi Group has launched the RISE program, an initiative to upskill and train hospitality professionals. Targeting around 2,000 trainees annually by 2025, the program focuses on food and beverage service, kitchen operations, front office, housekeeping, and laundry. Trainees will be selected from leading skilling institutes to support the growth of hospitality talent in India.
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