Author name: vibrantcoloursmagazine

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    SKILL DEVELOPMENT AND CHALO INDIA

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    The Union Budget 2026 announced pilot scheme for Upskilling 10000 guides in 20 iconic tourist sites across India, through 12 weeks structured academic and field training program aligned with National Skills Qualifications Framework (NSQF) & National Credit Framework (NCrF) in terms of quality, outcome and certification. This upskilling of tourist guides is to develop professionally trained, knowledgeable, responsible Guides in the country. This programme is in collaboration with different stakeholders like Indian Institute of Tourism & Travel Management, Indian Institute of Management, Archeological Survey of India, Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship and other stakeholders. The training is conducted in financial year 2026-27. The Chalo India initiative was launched by the Ministry of Tourism for members of the Indian Diaspora to become Incredible India Ambassadors by encouraging their non-Indian friends to visit India, every year. The objective of this initiative is to increase India’s share in the global tourism market, to promote the tourist destinations and tourism products of the country. The Ministry of Tourism undertakes tourism promotional activities in potential source markets overseas, in association with the Indian Missions overseas, Travel Trade industry and the State Governments/UT Administrations, to enhance tourist footfall to the country. The Union Budget 2026 announced to set up a National Institute of Hospitality (NIH) by upgrading the existing National Council for Hotel Management and Catering Technology (NCHMCT) to align academia, industry and Government as per the current demand of Hospitality industry. The updation of the curriculum of NCHMCT is an evolving process to keep the courses & curriculum relevant with the ever-evolving global trends and hospitality industry. The Ministry of Tourism launched ‘Dekho Apna Desh, People’s Choice 2024’ to understand the pulse of ‘Bharat ki Janta’, on 7th March 2024 in Srinagar, the first-ever nation-wide IP (Intellectual Property). The aim of this nation-wide poll was to engage with citizen to identify most preferred tourist attractions and understand tourist perceptions across 5 tourism categories – Spiritual, Cultural & Heritage, Nature & Wildlife, Adventure and others. The Ministry of Tourism also rolled out the Dekho Apna Desh (DAD) Hand Written Brochure Contest for students from Kendriya Vidyalaya (KV) and Navodaya Vidyalaya (NV) to make students become aware of the tourism attractions present in their District. The students were encouraged to visit the ASI monuments and other destinations in and round their school. The following activity were undertaken during this initiative: The Ministry of Tourism organised the Tourism Education Expo 2026 in around 10 states with the objective to create awareness among school students & their parents about career opportunities in Hospitality and Tourism. The career counselling sessions, interaction with key personalities of Tourism & Hospitality, Campus tour of institutes etc. were undertaken to promote the premier institutions of Tourism and Hospitality education under Ministry of Tourism. Preparation of hand written promotional brochure of 2 to 4 pages for the DAD school contest. Around 2000 hand written brochures were prepared by the students. The winner schools and students were felicitated in the Winner’s ceremony organised in various states from February 2026 onwards. On the spot competitions like drawing of favorite monument, Fireless cooking, quiz competition on tourism etc. were also held. The Tourism Education Expo as well as Dekho Apna Desh hand written brochure making competition encouraged students towards tourism education. This information was given by Union Minister for Tourism and Culture Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat in a written reply in Rajya Sabha today

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    ATTRACTING TOURISTS TO BUDDHIST CIRCUITS

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    Southeast Asia, with its significant Buddhist population, constitutes an important source market for the Buddhist Circuit in India. To promote the Buddhist heritage along with other destinations and products the Ministry carries out various promotional activities in association with Indian Missions abroad, State Governments/Union Territory Administrations and the travel trade sector. These include organisation of tourism roadshows, participation in international travel trade exhibitions, fairs and events; conduct of familiarization (FAM) tours for foreign tour operators, media and influencers; engagement with local tour operators and other stakeholders; and promotion through digital and social media platforms. For development of tourism infrastructure at tourist sites, including the Buddhist Circuit, the Ministry of Tourism implements projects under its schemes of Swadesh Darshan, Swadesh Darshan 2.0, National Mission on Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual, Heritage Augmentation Drive (PRASHAD), Challenge Based Destination Development (CBDD), Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI) and Assistance to Central Agencies. The details of projects sanctioned under these schemes at Buddhist sites, with particular reference to Bihar and adjoining regions, are placed at Annexure. In addition, the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) offers specialised pilgrimage tour packages connecting major Buddhist destinations through the Mahaparinirvan Express train. The Ministry also engages with tour operators and other stakeholders, who in turn promote tour packages to Buddhist circuits, including in South East Asian market. To enhance visitor experience at tourist sites in the country including the Buddhist sites the Ministry has instituted the Incredible India Tourist Facilitator (IITF) Certification Programme to create a pool of well-trained and professional tourist facilitators/guides, including those trained in foreign languages. The programme also includes advanced and refresher courses aimed at improving communication, service quality and cultural sensitivity. ANNEXURE Details of projects sanctioned under Swadesh Darshan (SD), Swadesh Darshan (SD) 2.0, ‘Challenge Based Destination Development (CBDD) and Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI) schemes at Buddhist sites in Bihar and adjoining areas S. No. State/ UT Scheme Sanction Year Name of the Project Amount Sanctioned (in ₹ Crore) Andhra Pradesh   SD 2017-18 Development of Buddhist Circuit: Shalihundam- Bavikonda- Bojjanakonda -Amravati- Anupu 35.24 Andhra Pradesh CBDD 2024-25 Enriching Buddhist Heritage and Cultural Experiences at Nagarjuna Sagar at Nagarjuna Sagar 25.00 Bihar   SD 2016-17 Development of Buddhist circuit- Construction of Convention Centre at Bodhgaya 95.18 Bihar SD 2.0 2024-25 Buddhist Meditation & Experience Centre in Bodhgaya 165.44 Gujarat   SD 2017-18 Development of Junagadh- Gir Somnath- Bharuch-Kutch- Bhavnagar- Rajkot- Mehsana 26.68 Madhya Pradesh SD 2016-17   Development of Sanchi-Satna-Rewa-Mandsaur-Dhar 74.02 Uttar Pradesh SD 2016-17 Development of Srawasti, Kushinagar, &Kapilwastu 87.89 Uttar Pradesh SASCI 2024-25 Integrated Buddhist Tourism Development in Shrawasti 80.24 Telangana CBDD 2024-25 Buddhavanam – Development of Digital Experience Centre 24.85 This information was given by Union Minister for Tourism and Culture Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat in a written reply in Rajya Sabha.

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    REGULATION OF ADVENTURE TOURISM

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    The list for State-wise number of Adventure Tourism Operators recognized under Ministry of Tourism is placed at Annexure. Ministry of Tourism does not maintain data on approved Adventure Tourism Destinations. The development and promotion of tourism, including adventure tourism, enhancing safety and convenience at adventure tourism sites is primarily the responsibility of the State Governments/Union Territory Administrations.Ministry of Tourism does not maintain data on accidents caused while participating in adventure tourism and it has no separate fund for promotion of Adventure Tourism. The Ministry of Tourism, in association with the Adventure Tour Operators Association of India has formulated Adventure Safety Guidelines with an aim to establish a comprehensive and standardized framework to ensure safety in the Adventure Tourism sector across India. These guidelines have been circulated to all States and Union Territories for adoption and formulation/updation of safety protocols. All the States / Union Territories have been requested to maintain a strict watch on all adventure related activities and ensure strict adherence to safety regulations and licensing norms by all the operators. ANNEXURE The list for State-wise number of Adventure Tourism Operators recognized under Ministry of Tourism Sr. No. State Number of Adventure Tourism Operators 1. Andhra Pradesh 01 2. Bihar 01 3. Delhi 21 4. Gujarat 02 5. Haryana 06 6. Himachal Pradesh 01 7. Jammu And Kashmir 02 8. Jharkhand 01 9. Karnataka 04 10. Kerala 02 11. Madhya Pradesh 02 12. Maharashtra 04 13. Punjab 01 14. Sikkim 01 15. Tamil Nadu 02 16. Telangana 03 17. Uttar Pradesh 04 18. Uttarakhand 03 19. West Bengal 16 Total 77 This information was given by Union Minister for Tourism and Culture Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat in a written reply in Rajya Sabha.

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    Hotel Association of India | Increase in ATF Prices | Mr. KB Kachru

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    Hotel Association of India issues statement on the increase in ATF Prices Attributed to KB Kachru, President, Hotel Association of India (HAI) and Chairman – South Asia, Radisson Hotel Group The Hotel Association of India (HAI) extends its heartfelt gratitude to the Hon’ble Prime Minister, the Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas, and the Ministry of Civil Aviation for their thoughtful and timely intervention in limiting the impact of the Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF) price increase on domestic airlines to just 25%. As highlighted in the recent government briefing, this calibrated measure comes at a critical time when global uncertainties, particularly in West Asia, have led to quite significant volatility in energy prices. With capping the rise in ATF costs, the Government has ensured that air travel remains affordable and accessible. This prevents a potential surge in travel costs which could have adversely impacted passenger demand and sectoral recovery. This proactive step will go a long way in uplifting confidence across the tourism, travel and hospitality ecosystem. The move not only supports the aviation sector but will also have a cascading positive impact on tourism and the broader economy. HAI also acknowledges the Government’s continued efforts to ensure fuel availability and stability, including maintaining domestic LPG prices and prioritising supply for key sectors such as hospitality. These measures provide much-needed operational relief to the hotel and tourism industry during these challenging times. We are also grateful to the Hon’ble Minister (Tourism) for their continued engagement with the Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas and the Ministry of Civil Aviation on issues concerning the tourism and hospitality industry. Additionally, we also extend our gratitude to the Government of India for looking into crucial matters like LPG supply for the hotel sector. The industry looks forward to the Government’s continued support and collaborative approach in navigating these uncertain times and strengthening India’s travel and hospitality landscape.

    Blog, Tourism

    CRISIL reaffirms Thomas Cook India Group’s ratings at CRISIL AA/Stable/CRISIL A1+ Highest rating for a travel & tourism company in India

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    Reaffirmation reflects strong support from parent Fairfax Financial Holdings and continued strategic importance Leadership position across Travel & Foreign Exchange, with diversified presence in Hospitality and attraction imaging segments Sustained operating performance driving healthy margins, ROCE and strong liquidity Robust capital structure with low leverage and significant cash reserves Mumbai, April 3, 2026: CRISIL Ratings has reaffirmed the long-term rating and corporate credit rating (CCR) of Thomas Cook (India) Limited (TCIL) at ‘CRISIL AA/Stable’, along with its short-term rating at ‘CRISIL A1+’. The reaffirmation underscores the Group’s resilient business model, strong financial profile and consistent operational performance, even amidst a dynamic and evolving global environment. The ratings continue to reflect the strong backing of Fairfax Financial Holdings Ltd, TCIL’s parent, along with the Group’s leadership position in India’s travel and foreign exchange (forex) sectors. TCIL further benefits from its diversified presence across hospitality and attraction imaging segments (DEI), strengthening its overall business risk profile and providing resilience across market cycles. TCIL reported healthy performance momentum, with revenue growth of 7.4% yoy to ₹6,628 crore in the first nine months of FY26. This growth was driven by robust demand across key travel segments, including destination management services (DMS), outbound leisure, MICE and corporate travel. The travel segment continues to remain the primary growth driver, contributing over 75% of total revenues. The Group’s ongoing structural cost optimisation initiatives have enhanced operating efficiencies, resulting in healthy margins and improved return on capital employed (ROCE). While margins witnessed marginal moderation due to macroeconomic and geopolitical disruptions, overall profitability remains stable, supported by disciplined cost management and operational agility. TCIL’s financial risk profile remains strong, characterised by a comfortable capital structure and robust liquidity position. As of February 2026, the Group reported cash and bank balances of approximately ₹2,346 crore, including significant unencumbered reserves. Low leverage (gearing at 0.34x) and healthy debt protection metrics further reinforce its credit strength, while low utilisation of bank limits provides an additional liquidity cushion. CRISIL has also taken note of TCIL’s proposed restructuring, including the demerger of its resorts and resort management (RRM) business into Sterling Holiday Resorts Ltd. While this may moderate consolidated revenues and EBIT post-completion, the Group’s overall credit risk profile is expected to remain robust. CRISIL has also acknowledged potential headwinds from ongoing geopolitical developments; however, TCIL’s strong liquidity, flexible cost structure and proactive management actions are expected to mitigate risks. CRISIL continues to factor in ongoing support from Fairfax, which remains a key rating strength, along with the Group’s strong market position, brand equity and diversified business model. These strengths are partially offset by exposure to geopolitical risks, competitive intensity and risks associated with inorganic growth strategies. CRISIL has consolidated the business and financial profiles of TCIL and its subsidiaries—including Sterling Holiday Resorts Ltd, TC Tours Ltd, Travel Corporation India Ltd, SOTC Travel Ltd and other international entities—reflecting their strategic importance and operational integration within the Thomas Cook India Group. Mr. Mahesh Iyer, Managing Director & CEO, Thomas Cook (India) Limited said, “CRISIL’s reaffirmation of Thomas Cook (India) Limited’s credit ratings at ‘AA/Stable/A1+’ underscores the strength and resilience of TCIL’s business model & recognises the Group’s consistent business performance, strong fundamentals, diversified portfolio, prudent financial management as well as the strong support from our parent, Fairfax Financial Holdings. As we move forward in an increasingly complex global business environment, we remain committed to driving sustainable growth and delivering long-term value to all our stakeholders.”

    Aviation, Latest News

    AAHL, Blinkit launch India’s first in-terminal quick commerce service at Mumbai Airport

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    First in-terminal quick commerce delivery by an e-commerce platform at CSMIA Terminal 2 Passengers can receive orders across boarding gates, lounges, food court and partner outlets Deliveries are handled by trained on-ground personnel within minutes, ensuring a seamless and secure experience Mumbai, 1 April 2026: For travellers rushing through departures, a forgotten charger, a quick snack, or even a bottle of water can now be a tap away. Adani Airport Holdings Limited (AAHL), India’s largest private airport operator, in partnership with Blinkit, India’s leading quick commerce platform, has launched India’s first in-terminal quick commerce service at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA), Mumbai. The service is now live at Terminal 2, domestic departures, bringing app-based delivery directly into the airport experience. Passengers can order essentials through the Blinkit app and have them delivered to their location within the terminal, including boarding gates, lounges, the food court and select partner outlets. Deliveries are carried out by trained on-ground personnel, ensuring a seamless and secure experience without disrupting travel timelines. AAHL Spokesperson said: “Adani Airports is reimagining how digital services can enhance the airport experience. Bringing app-based convenience into the terminal allows passengers to make better use of their time and raises the overall service standard. This is a step towards building more responsive and passenger-centric airports.” The offering spans travel accessories, electronics, snacks, books, baby care and personal essentials. Permissible liquids such as packaged water, cold beverages and juices are sourced from approved in-terminal inventory, in line with airport security protocols. For Blinkit, the initiative extends quick commerce into a high-frequency, high-intent environment, driving deeper online adoption and consumer penetration. For AAHL, it reflects a strategic push to enhance passenger convenience while unlocking non-aeronautical growth through digitally enabled retail. The service also brings a new level of accessibility and affordability to airport retail, giving travellers more choice without the typical constraints of time and location. With high passenger throughput at Terminal 2, the initiative addresses a familiar gap in the travel journey, enabling access to essentials exactly when they are needed. The rollout aligns with AAHL’s focus on building technology-led, passenger-centric airports, where convenience, accessibility and seamless digital experiences define the journey.

    Aviation, Latest News

    FLYADEAL UNVEILS NEW CABIN CREW UNIFORM REFLECTING BRAND IDENTITY AND MODERN SAUDI SPIRIT

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    Signature Logo-Inspired Design, Comfort And Personalisation Options   Saudi Company Al-Harithy Tailoring Chosen To Produce Outfits Jeddah, KINGDOM OF SAUDI ARABIA – flyadeal, Saudi Arabia’s fast-growing low-cost airline, has unveiled a newly designed cabin crew uniform which debuted across its four operational bases during Eid Al Fitr. Representing flyadeal’s continued evolution as a modern Saudi airline, combining style, inclusivity and practicality, the new-look reflects the airline’s youthful and vibrant identity – from flyadeal’s signature ‘equal sign’ logo subtly woven into the design, to the flexible comfort offered to crew. Designed with both cultural considerations and practicality in mind, the uniform respects traditional modesty preferences. Crew have flexible styling options, allowing personalisation within brand guidelines to suit them in a working environment, both in the air and on the ground. A distinctive feature is the necktie, scarf and hijab, decoratively complementing flyadeal’s logo and core purple brand colours. This subtle design element reinforces the airline’s philosophy of equality in travel, also serving to distinguish levels of seniority among crew, now totalling over 700. A collaborative effort between flyadeal’s inhouse design team and Saudi company Al-Harithy Tailoring, the refined design, look and feel also involved the crew department for feedback along the journey from creation to execution. Steven Greenway, flyadeal Chief Executive Officer, said: “Our new cabin crew uniform is a natural evolution of flyadeal’s identity as a modern, inclusive and proud Saudi airline. “As we rolled out the new uniform on the occasion of Eid Al Fitr from our bases in Jeddah, Riyadh, Dammam and Madinah, it was a great moment for our crew to celebrate and have both a feel and greater sense of confidence presenting themselves as frontline flyadeal ambassadors.” Tanya Appleyard, flyadeal Inflight Advisor, explained that the company went through various concepts to refresh the uniforms, engaging cabin crew for feedback along the way before going into production. “This was important to ensure our crew had the buy-in and feeling of being part of the process of this exciting new chapter in flyadeal’s journey that has also involved a local company brought onboard for production of the uniforms,” she said. “Female uniforms prominently feature purple with crew opting for three-quarter or long-sleeved blouses. Male crew incorporate refined purple accents through vest linings, pocket seams and jacket lapel buttonhole stitching, ensuring strong brand visibility across the cabin. They may choose between long- and short-sleeved shirts.” Ghizlane Rabii, flyadeal Senior Cabin Crew Services Manager, added: “As cabin crew are the face of flyadeal, wearing a uniform that reflects our personality and values makes a real difference. The new design is comfortable, practical and proudly represents our culture. We especially appreciate the flexibility in styling, which allows the crew community to feel confident and at ease on every flight while maintaining a strong and consistent brand presence.” flyadeal has rapidly developed into the Middle East’s fastest growing airline operating a young fleet of 45 aircraft from bases in Jeddah, Riyadh, Madinah and Dammam to more than 40 seasonal and year-round destinations across Saudi Arabia, and in the Middle East, Europe, North Africa and South Asia. By 2030, in line with Saudi Vision 2030, flyadeal expects to more than double its network and fleet to over 100 destinations and aircraft respectively.

    Blog

    CRISIL reaffirms Thomas Cook India Group’s ratings at CRISIL AA/Stable/CRISIL A1+ Highest rating for a travel & tourism company in India

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    Reaffirmation reflects strong support from parent Fairfax Financial Holdings and continued strategic importance Leadership position across Travel & Foreign Exchange, with diversified presence in Hospitality and attraction imaging segments Sustained operating performance driving healthy margins, ROCE and strong liquidity Robust capital structure with low leverage and significant cash reserves Mumbai, April 1, 2026: CRISIL Ratings has reaffirmed the long-term rating and corporate credit rating (CCR) of Thomas Cook (India) Limited (TCIL) at ‘CRISIL AA/Stable’, along with its short-term rating at ‘CRISIL A1+’. The reaffirmation underscores the Group’s resilient business model, strong financial profile and consistent operational performance, even amidst a dynamic and evolving global environment. The ratings continue to reflect the strong backing of Fairfax Financial Holdings Ltd, TCIL’s parent, along with the Group’s leadership position in India’s travel and foreign exchange (forex) sectors. TCIL further benefits from its diversified presence across hospitality and attraction imaging segments (DEI), strengthening its overall business risk profile and providing resilience across market cycles. TCIL reported healthy performance momentum, with revenue growth of 7.4% yoy to ₹6,628 crore in the first nine months of FY26. This growth was driven by robust demand across key travel segments, including destination management services (DMS), outbound leisure, MICE and corporate travel. The travel segment continues to remain the primary growth driver, contributing over 75% of total revenues. The Group’s ongoing structural cost optimisation initiatives have enhanced operating efficiencies, resulting in healthy margins and improved return on capital employed (ROCE). While margins witnessed marginal moderation due to macroeconomic and geopolitical disruptions, overall profitability remains stable, supported by disciplined cost management and operational agility. TCIL’s financial risk profile remains strong, characterised by a comfortable capital structure and robust liquidity position. As of February 2026, the Group reported cash and bank balances of approximately ₹2,346 crore, including significant unencumbered reserves. Low leverage (gearing at 0.34x) and healthy debt protection metrics further reinforce its credit strength, while low utilisation of bank limits provides an additional liquidity cushion. CRISIL has also taken note of TCIL’s proposed restructuring, including the demerger of its resorts and resort management (RRM) business into Sterling Holiday Resorts Ltd. While this may moderate consolidated revenues and EBIT post-completion, the Group’s overall credit risk profile is expected to remain robust. CRISIL has also acknowledged potential headwinds from ongoing geopolitical developments; however, TCIL’s strong liquidity, flexible cost structure and proactive management actions are expected to mitigate risks. CRISIL continues to factor in ongoing support from Fairfax, which remains a key rating strength, along with the Group’s strong market position, brand equity and diversified business model. These strengths are partially offset by exposure to geopolitical risks, competitive intensity and risks associated with inorganic growth strategies. CRISIL has consolidated the business and financial profiles of TCIL and its subsidiaries—including Sterling Holiday Resorts Ltd, TC Tours Ltd, Travel Corporation India Ltd, SOTC Travel Ltd and other international entities—reflecting their strategic importance and operational integration within the Thomas Cook India Group. Mr. Mahesh Iyer, Managing Director & CEO, Thomas Cook (India) Limited said, “CRISIL’s reaffirmation of Thomas Cook (India) Limited’s credit ratings at ‘AA/Stable/A1+’ underscores the strength and resilience of TCIL’s business model & recognises the Group’s consistent business performance, strong fundamentals, diversified portfolio, prudent financial management as well as the strong support from our parent, Fairfax Financial Holdings. As we move forward in an increasingly complex global business environment, we remain committed to driving sustainable growth and delivering long-term value to all our stakeholders.”

    Aviation, Latest News

    ITA Airways Joins Star Alliance

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        Star Alliance welcomes Italy’s flag carrier, further enabling seamless journeys for customers worldwide.  Gurugram, 2nd April 2026: Star Alliance officially welcomed ITA Airways as its newest member, marking the completion of the Italian carrier’s integration into the world’s largest airline alliance. ITA Airways marked its entry into the Alliance during a ceremony held at the Piazza di Spagna Lounge, Rome Fiumicino Airport Terminal 3. The ceremony was presided over by ITA Airways Chief Executive Officer and General Manager Joerg Eberhart, Star Alliance Chief Executive Officer Theo Panagiotoulias, and Lufthansa Group Chief Commercial Officer Dieter Vranckx, in the presence of media and institutional guests. Starting April 1, ITA Airways will be fully connected into the Alliance’s global network, linking its Rome Fiumicino hub and Milan Linate airport, served by 17 Star Alliance members collectively, with more than 1,150 destinations worldwide. Customers travelling across the network can now benefit from through check-in, reciprocal frequent flyer recognition and access to Star Alliance lounges, creating a more seamless customer experience, in and out of Italy. Celebrating the milestone, Star Alliance Chief Executive Officer Theo Panagiotoulias said: “On behalf of our members, I am delighted to welcome ITA Airways as the 26th member of Star Alliance. This is the result of a focused and collaborative integration effort. With ITA Airways on board, we not only expand our network to and from Italy, but also elevate the connected experience of our customers when travelling across multiple airlines, through access to the world’s largest network of airport lounges, more comprehensive loyalty benefits, and other benefits like baggage tracking – all designed to enhance the journey at every step.”   Joerg Eberhart, CEO and General Manager of ITA Airways, said: “Joining Star Alliance marks a historic milestone for ITA Airways and a defining step in our growth. By becoming part of the world’s largest and most established global airline network, we significantly expand our international reach while offering our passengers a more seamless, consistent and high‑quality travel experience, with access to over 1,150 destinations worldwide, smoother connections, integrated services and a stronger premium proposition. At the same time, we enter Star Alliance bringing with us our distinctive Italian identity, enriching the Alliance and reinforcing ITA Airways’ role in connecting Italy with the world, combining global standards of excellence with the warmth and elegance that define the Italian way of flying.” ITA Airways’ induction into the Alliance has been mentored by the Lufthansa Group, and expert teams across the group airlines have facilitated an intense integration programme over the last several months. Dieter Vranckx, Chief Commercial Officer of Lufthansa Group, said: “The Star Alliance membership is only possible thanks to the strong commitment and close collaboration of dedicated teams at ITA Airways, Lufthansa Group and Star Alliance. We are pleased to introduce ITA Airways as fully fledged hub airline into the Lufthansa Group and into the Alliance, expanding options for travellers across Europe and the world. Together, ITA Airways and the Lufthansa Group, are unlocking a joint value proposition that will benefit our customers, our partners, and the Star Alliance ecosystem.” ITA Airways, which flies over 16 million customers every year, adds more than 350 daily flights to the Alliance network, supported by a strong domestic and regional footprint. The addition expands travel options across Italy and Europe, while improving connectivity between Southern Europe and key international markets. As part of its membership, eligible customers can enjoy priority services, lounge access across the Alliance network, and reciprocal frequent flyer programme recognition, including earning and redeeming miles. Star Alliance Gold customers will also have access to ITA Airways lounges in Rome, Milan and Catania. With the addition of ITA Airways, Star Alliance now comprises 26 member airlines, offering more than 17,500 daily flights across a global network spanning over 190 countries.

    Food, Hotels, Latest News

    Cinnamon Bentota Beach – Signature Selection hosts an exclusive Signature Bar Takeover by Indian mixologist Ami Shroff

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    Wednesday, 01.04.2026, Colombo: Marking the spirit of global celebrations that honour women and their achievements, Cinnamon Bentota Beach – Signature Selection hosted an exclusive Signature Bar Takeover at Fuze Bar with acclaimed Indian mixologist Ami Shroff. The intimate evening invited guests to explore a specially curated cocktail menu, where classic flavours met inventive twists, accompanied by subtle flair bartending that added charm and movement to the bar. Set against the serene coastal backdrop of Bentota, the event balanced lively energy with a relaxed atmosphere, encouraging conversation and connection. Ami’s effortless presence behind the bar showcased the artistry of mixology, engaging guests with skillful displays that highlighted her craft without overshadowing the experience. The following day, Ami led a hands-on workshop for the resort’s Food & Beverage team and young hospitality enthusiasts, sharing insights on techniques, trends, and the fundamentals of cocktail making. Recognised as one of India’s pioneering female mixologists and an early advocate of flair bartending, Ami Shroff has built a distinguished career spanning over two decades. She has played a significant role in shaping India’s modern bar culture, blending performance artistry with technical precision. Her achievements include being named Mixologist of the Year at the INCA Awards in 2019, and she is widely regarded for championing innovation while carving a path for greater female representation within the industry. The two-day experience celebrated Women’s Day while highlighting mixology as a dynamic and collaborative element of modern hospitality.

    Vibrant Colours is an Indian registered publication catering to the travel, tourism, embassy and hospitality sector. The magazine is published under the global publication group  Prime Communication from New Delhi, India. Launched in 2019, the magazine was conceived with a vision to serve and celebrate the ever-growing travel trade and tourism industry across India and beyond.

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