Travel

Tour Blue Completes 14 Years, Strengthening Commitment to Safe, Responsible, and Personalised Travel Experiences

vibrant colours / May 13, 2026

At a time when safety, accountability, and reliability are redefining travel decisions, Tour Blue is strengthening its position as a trusted destination management company by setting new benchmarks in crisis responsiveness, personalised service, and responsible tourism. In today’s rapidly evolving travel environment, responsiveness is critical. Tour Blue adopts a proactive, solutions-driven approach to managing challenges, ensuring that every situation is handled swiftly and effectively. A defining strength of the company lies in its collaborative team culture, where senior leadership and operational teams work seamlessly together to resolve issues and maintain uninterrupted service delivery for partners and travellers. As Tour Blue completes 14 years in the industry, the company’s journey reflects resilience, adaptability, and a forward-looking vision that continues to guide its growth. “In an environment where safety and trust are paramount, our responsibility goes beyond delivering travel services. We are committed to being dependable partners. Our focus remains on proactive problem-solving, personalised experiences, and building long-term relationships that stand the test of changing times.” – Darshana Cabraal, Joint Managing Director, Tour Blue At the core of Tour Blue’s philosophy is a deeply personalised approach to travel. Each itinerary is thoughtfully curated to reflect individual preferences, combining flexibility, attention to detail, and high service standards. This is complemented by a strong focus on offering competitive value, ensuring travellers experience both comfort and confidence throughout their journey. Further reinforcing its commitment to safety and service excellence, Tour Blue continues to invest in strengthening its transport fleet, enhancing reliability, comfort, and on-ground operational efficiency across Sri Lanka. Aligned with global travel trends, the company remains dedicated to responsible and sustainable tourism. By supporting local communities, preserving cultural heritage, and promoting environmentally conscious practices, Tour Blue actively contributes to the long-term sustainability of the destination. Expanding its operational reach, the Jaffna branch office established last year is already buzzing with business, playing a key role in strengthening regional coverage and improving response times on the ground. Additionally, Tour Blue ensures comprehensive Pan-India connectivity through a network of highly experienced Indian representatives overseeing all major regions, enabling closer engagement and seamless coordination with travel partners.

Thoughtful Mother’s Day Getaways to Gift Your Mom a Meaningful Escape

vibrant colours / May 7, 2026

With Mother’s Day approaching, gifting is shifting from things to thoughtful escapes—giving mothers what they rarely take for themselves: time off and Travel. Story Idea: Gift Her a Pause This Mother’s Day 1. No-Agenda Getaways Sometimes the best gift is nothing planned. Slow, easy trips where moms can rest, recharge, and just be. 2. Retreats that Rejuvenate From music retreats and writing retreats to wellness-led stays, these experiences offer creative and emotional reset alongside relaxation. Places like Woods at Sasan (nature-led calm) and Chandelao Garh (heritage + community experiences) bring this alive. 3. Memories Over Material Gifts Experiential gifting is on the rise—because shared moments and meaningful breaks last far longer than any physical present. Woods At Sasan, Gir Nestled amidst the natural beauty of Gir, Woods At Sasan is a thoughtfully designed luxury retreat that blends sustainability, comfort, and mindful living. Co-designed with architect Maria Portella and built using organic materials by local artisans, the property offers an immersive stay experience rooted in the ethos of the Kathiawar Somnath bio-region. From serene nature walks and farm-to-table dining to wellness-focused experiences, Woods At Sasan is ideal for families seeking a calm and restorative escape in nature. Chandelao Garh, Jodhpur Located near Jodhpur, Chandelao Garh is a heritage boutique property that offers an authentic cultural experience while preserving the charm of Rajasthan’s royal legacy. Beyond hospitality, the property is deeply committed to community development through initiatives focused on women’s empowerment, traditional craft revival, education, and environmental sustainability. Guests can enjoy a blend of heritage luxury, local cuisine, village experiences, and purposeful travel, making it a meaningful destination for families looking to celebrate Mother’s Day in a unique and enriching way. This Mother’s Day, experiential gifting is emerging as a preferred choice, with families opting for restorative getaways and quality time over conventional presents.

Agoda Reveals the Most Popular Search Filters for 2026: Indian Travelers Favor Choice, Culinary Convenience and Comfort

vibrant colours / May 6, 2026

Digital travel platform Agoda has unveiled its ranking of what Asian travelers prioritize most when searching for accommodation in 2026. Looking at the most-used search filters on its website this year, Agoda reports that Indian travelers consistently prioritize accommodation type, included breakfasts and strong review scores when seeking holiday stays. At 26% of all filter activity, choice of accommodation type ranked first for Indian traveler searches in 2026, emphasizing the importance of selecting the right stay over all other factors. This places India among the top markets, compared with the Asia-wide average of 19%. ‘Review scores of 7 and above’ rank among the top search criteria for Indian travelers in 2026 constituting 13% of all filter activity reflecting a strong preference for highly rated stays. Dining and creature comforts drive Indian travel choices The filter for breakfast-included stays is India’s second-most searched at 14%, reflecting a preference for convenience and value at the start of the day. Dinner-included stays also feature among India’s top 10 search filters, pointing to food as a consideration across the entire day, not just breakfast. Indian travelers also seek specific creature comforts when choosing stays. Swimming pools and bathtubs both rank among the top 10 search filters for Indian travelers in 2026, reflecting a clear preference for amenities that support relaxation and enhance the overall stay experience. Indian travelers want flexibility before, during and after the stay Flexibility across booking, payment and stay options is a clear priority for Indian travelers in 2026. Free cancellation and pay-at-hotel options are featured among the top 10 search filters, highlighting the interest in refundable and on-site payment choices that reduce booking friction. Other search options that offer flexibility, choice and convenience also feature among the top 10 searches for Indian travelers, including location score (of 9 and above) and car parking facilities. These indicate that travelers are increasingly keen on accommodation that can cater to their diverse preferences, whether this is traveling as a group, driving to their destination, or wanting to be close to public transport and other attractions. Gaurav Malik, Country Director, Indian Subcontinent & Indian Ocean Islands at Agoda, said, “In 2026, Indian travelers are becoming more intentional in how they choose their stays. Searches show a clear focus on accommodation type, breakfast-included options and highly rated properties, alongside flexible booking features such as pay-at-hotel and free cancellation. It is not just about availability, but about finding the right fit. Agoda’s easy-to-use search filters and wide range of accommodation choices, amenities, locations and more enable travelers to find the perfect stay based on individual needs and wants.” With over 6 million holiday properties, more than 130,000 flight routes, and over 300,000 activities, Agoda enables travelers to plan and combine every part of their journey in one place. Running from 7 May to 21 May, Agoda’s 21st Birthday Sale will offer up to 60% off on hotel bookings, with a special flash sale of up to 70% on 19 May and exclusive deals on flights and activities. Agoda VIP members will receive early access to deals from 3 May to 6 May. Discover more on Agoda’s mobile app or at Agoda.com.

Hospitality, Latest News, Travel

SaltStayz Forays into the Leisure Segment with Launch of Autograph Property in Rishikesh

vibrant colours / April 30, 2026

SaltStayz, a fast-growing hospitality brand has marked its entry into the leisure travel segment with the launch of its premium category ‘Autograph’ brand in Rishikesh – one of India’s most sought-after wellness and spiritual destinations. Presently, SaltStayz has its presence in key business travel markets including New Delhi, Gurgaon, Noida, Faridabad and Chandigarh-Mohali. SaltStayz Autograph Rishikesh has been positioned towards guests looking at a high-quality stay combined with experiences and a deeper connection with the destination. Strategically located in the heart of Rishikesh, the property enjoys proximity to key landmarks such as Triveni Ghat and Parmarth Niketan Ashram, providing access to key spiritual and cultural landmarks in the destination. The hotel’s location also allows for easy access to major touch-points including Ram Jhula & Lakshman Jhula while still offering a sense of calm and retreat. SaltStayz Autograph Rishikesh has also been positioned with a focus on wellness-led experiences. Given its proximity to key spiritual and leisure points in Rishikesh, the property provides access to activities such as yoga sessions, guided spiritual walks and self-exploratory bicycle tours to enable guests to discover the surrounding areas. Dedicated spaces for meditation have been incorporated as part of the overall design. The property also includes an all-day dining restaurant, featuring the first of its kind – pure vegetarian Moti Mahal restaurant. Gaurav Gupta, Co-Founder, SaltStayz said, “Rishikesh is witnessing a clear shift towards wellness-led travel with guests increasingly seeking more immersive and experience-driven stays. While SaltStayz has traditionally operated within the business travel segment, we have been observing consistent demand from our existing customer base for similar offerings in leisure destinations. The launch of our Autograph category in Rishikesh is a direct response to this shift, reflecting both evolving consumer preferences and our broader expansion strategy.” With 38 keys, the property launch in Rishikesh marks the implementation of SaltStayz’s broader strategy of expanding into high-potential leisure destinations while offering thoughtfully designed stays at competitive pricing. “In the post-pandemic period, demand for leisure and spiritual travel has increased significantly. Wellness has also emerged as a key factor influencing leisure travellers when choosing a destination,” added Gupta. Alongside its Autograph brand, SaltStayz’s portfolio also includes the Select and Premier categories. The hospitality company is planning to expand into other parts of the country through its Autograph portfolio. Designed for modern travellers seeking more than just accommodation, Autograph hotels are set to play a central role in SaltStayz’s expansion strategy in the near future.

SOTC Travel expands its distribution across 53 cities, inaugurates its landmark 100th store in Mumbai’s Nariman Point Milestone launch underscores strong retail expansion strategy

vibrant colours / April 23, 2026

SOTC Travel, a leading omnichannel Travel and Tourism Company, has achieved a significant milestone with the inauguration of its 100th retail store at Nariman Point, Mumbai. The store was inaugurated by Mr. Vishal Suri – Managing Director & CEO at SOTC Travel, along with Mr. SD Nandakumar, President & Country Head – Holidays and Corporate Tours at SOTC Travel. This landmark expansion underscores the Company’s strong growth trajectory and its commitment to enhancing customer access through a robust and strategically located retail network across India. With its integrated omnichannel model, SOTC continues to strengthen its position as India’s favorite travel partner. The Company’s approach seamlessly blends its physical retail presence with digital platforms, enabling customers to engage across multiple touchpoints. Catering to a diverse range of traveller segments—including multigenerational families, couples, GenS (seniors), millennials and GenZ, delivering experiences that resonate with evolving travel preferences. As the Company expands geographically, it remains focused on enhancing convenience while deepening its regional connect, offering localized holiday expertise and tailored travel solutions to meet the needs of customers across Indian markets. SOTC’s digital-first approach is anchored in continuous investments in technology and innovation. The Company has introduced several customer-centric solutions, including its AI-powered chatbot Ezy, a multilingual website experience and a diverse portfolio of regional products designed to cater to the unique preferences of travellers across India. These initiatives ensure a seamless, intuitive and highly customized journey for customers from inspiration to booking and beyond. Nariman Point, one of Mumbai’s most prestigious business districts, offers access to a premium customer base comprising corporate professionals, entrepreneurs and affluent travellers across travel segments with strong outbound travel demand. The store’s strategic location further strengthens SOTC’s presence in a key metro market, enabling deeper engagement with high-value customers and the delivery of personalized travel solutions. Summer travel trends reflect strong and evolving travel interest across segments, with Indian travellers balancing popular destinations and experiential journeys. India and within the subcontinent, Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Kerala, Andaman and Bhutan continue to lead interest, while internationally, destinations such as Europe, Japan, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Philippines, Vietnam remain in focus. Spiritual tourism continues to see sustained interest through SOTC’s Darshans portfolio, including the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, Do Dham, Char Dham Yatra and Vaishnodevi Yatra. At the same time, travellers are increasingly opting for experiential, bucket-list holidays such as luxury cruises, Antarctica expeditions, Northern Lights experiences and adventure-led itineraries. To further enhance traveller confidence, we have introduced TravSure — a pioneering initiative to redefine travel protection. It is designed to meet the realities of modern travel and ensure our customers feel secure wherever they go. In addition, we also offer value-added protections such as visa rejection cover, further safeguarding travellers against unforeseen financial risks.

Blog, Hotels, Tourism, Travel

From Hills to Islands: Thomas Cook India & SOTC Travel’s Summer Edit

vibrant colours / April 20, 2026

As Indian travellers increasingly prioritise meaningful short breaks and experience-led holidays, Thomas Cook India and SOTC Travel are witnessing a strong preference for diverse summer destinations—spanning cool mountains, tropical islands and culturally rich regions. From blossom-filled valleys and high-altitude adventures to wellness retreats and vibrant cultural festivals, here are the top domestic and nearby destinations trending this summer season: Kashmir: Blossoms, Valleys & Houseboat Living Kashmir continues to captivate travellers with its timeless natural beauty, but what makes early summer particularly special is the fleeting apricot blossom season seen in parts of the region and nearby Ladakh. As the season progresses, the valley transforms into a lush expanse of green meadows and flowing rivers. Summer also sees local cultural events and garden festivals in Srinagar, enhancing the overall visitor experience. Srinagar’s iconic houseboats on Dal Lake, the expansive landscapes of Gulmarg create a multi-layered itinerary that blends relaxation with scenic indulgence. Darjeeling & Gangtok: The Classic Himalayan Duo The twin destinations of Darjeeling and Gangtok continue to be among the most sought-after summer circuits, offering a seamless blend of nature, culture and comfort. Darjeeling comes alive during the early summer months with its famed first flush tea harvest, when estates are at their most vibrant and scenic. This period also coincides with local cultural celebrations and monastery events in the region, adding depth to the experience. Travellers can pair this with sunrise views over Kanchenjunga from Tiger Hill, heritage toy train rides and leisurely explorations of colonial-era charm. Gangtok complements the experience with its clean, vibrant streets, monastery visits and access to high-altitude lakes like Tsomgo, making it ideal for families and couples seeking both relaxation and light exploration. Kerala: Backwaters, Hills & Coastal Bliss Kerala remains a perennial favourite, offering a diverse landscape that seamlessly blends backwaters, hill stations and beaches. During the summer months, the state’s lush greenery is enhanced by the onset of pre-monsoon showers, creating a refreshing environment for travellers. This period also sees temple festivals such as Thrissur Pooram (typically April/May), one of Kerala’s most spectacular cultural events featuring grand processions and traditional performances. Houseboat stays through the tranquil backwaters of Alleppey, misty mornings amid the tea gardens of Munnar and sunset views along the beaches of Varkala or Kovalam provide a well-rounded itinerary. Additionally, Kerala’s strong wellness proposition—particularly Ayurveda—continues to attract travellers looking to combine leisure with rejuvenation. Sikkim: Serenity Meets Scenic Beauty Sikkim is witnessing growing interest from travellers seeking quieter, more immersive destinations. The state’s pristine environment, marked by snow-capped peaks, alpine lakes and Buddhist monasteries, offers a sense of calm that is increasingly valued. Late spring and early summer also bring bursts of colour with rhododendron blooms across the region. Cultural experiences are enhanced by festivals such as Saga Dawa (May/June), one of the most significant Buddhist festivals commemorating the life of Lord Buddha. Experiences such as visiting Tsomgo Lake, exploring Lachung and Yumthang Valley, and engaging with local traditions make Sikkim particularly appealing to those looking to step away from crowded tourist circuits. Himachal Pradesh: A Summer Staple with Emerging Gems Himachal Pradesh continues to be a reliable summer escape, thanks to its accessibility and pleasant climate. While Shimla and Manali remain popular for their infrastructure and familiarity, there is growing interest towards offbeat locales such as Tirthan Valley and Spiti. Summer also marks the start of vibrant local fairs and festivals, including the Shimla Summer Festival, which brings together folk performances, music and regional cuisine. These destinations offer quieter, nature-led experiences including riverside stays, trout fishing, stargazing and rugged road trips, ensuring Himachal retains its broad appeal. Ladakh: Adventure & Cultural Immersion in the High Himalayas Ladakh’s short summer season opens up one of India’s most dramatic landscapes, drawing in adventure enthusiasts and experience seekers alike. With high mountain passes accessible, travellers embark on road trips and bike expeditions across Nubra Valley, Pangong Lake and beyond. The season is also marked by iconic festivals such as the Hemis Festival (June/July), where monasteries come alive with masked dances, rituals and vibrant celebrations, offering deep insight into the region’s Buddhist heritage. Combined with its clear night skies and stark beauty, Ladakh offers a truly distinctive summer experience. Rajasthan: Royal Heritage & Hill Retreats Rajasthan offers a contrasting yet compelling summer experience, especially for travellers drawn to culture and heritage. While much of the state experiences warmer temperatures, destinations like Udaipur and Mount Abu provide relatively cooler settings. Udaipur’s lakeside palaces and heritage hotels offer luxurious stays paired with curated cultural experiences, including traditional music and dance performances. The Mount Abu Summer Festival (May) adds a festive dimension with folk performances, boat races and cultural showcases, making the destination especially lively during this period. Andaman & Lakshadweep: Tropical Island Escapes For travellers seeking sun, sand and sea, India’s island destinations are at their best during the summer months. Andaman and Lakshadweep offer crystal-clear waters with excellent visibility, making it an ideal time for snorkelling and scuba diving. While these destinations are more about natural experiences than large festivals, occasional local cultural events and beachside celebrations provide glimpses into island life. Whether it is exploring marine biodiversity or simply unwinding by the beach, these islands cater to both adventure seekers and those looking for pure relaxation. North East India: Untouched, Immersive & Seasonal The broader North East region, including Meghalaya and Arunachal Pradesh, is gaining traction for its raw, untouched beauty and immersive experiences. As summer transitions into the monsoon, the region becomes especially lush, with waterfalls in Meghalaya coming into full flow. The season also features unique cultural festivals such as the Ambubachi Mela in Assam (June), a significant spiritual event, alongside local tribal festivals that offer insight into indigenous traditions. Experiences such as trekking to living root bridges, exploring caves and engaging with local communities make this region particularly compelling.

SOTC Travel’s MICE strengthens focus on Australia Hosts an exclusive networking engagement in partnership with Tourism Australia

vibrant colours / April 15, 2026

With strong air connectivity, world-class infrastructure, and a diverse range of experiences spanning wildlife, luxury, culture, and adventure, Australia continues to position itself as a highly attractive destination for India’s rapidly growing MICE segment. In a strategic initiative to inspire its top corporate clients, SOTC Travel, a leading omnichannel travel and tourism company, partnered with Tourism Australia to host a high-impact MICE engagement in Mumbai. The event witnessed strong participation from CXOs and senior executives representing leading multinational corporations and Indian corporate houses across sectors including BFSI, paints, automotive, FMCG, electronics, manufacturing, and trade. The engagement brought together key stakeholders from Tourism Australia and SOTC Travel, creating a dynamic platform for meaningful interactions and deeper engagement with the Australian tourism ecosystem. Representatives from Tourism Australia, along with partners including Singapore Airlines and Business Events Sydney, showcased Australia’s evolving MICE offerings and enhanced accessibility for Indian travellers. With Indian corporates increasingly seeking unique and experiential destinations for global offsites and incentive travel, Australia stands out for its seamless connectivity, premium venues, and distinctive experiences. The initiative aligns with SOTC Travel’s strategic focus on expanding its MICE portfolio and driving demand for high-potential long-haul destinations such as Australia. SOTC Travel has, in the past, delivered customised programs incorporating unique experiences such as Harley‑Davidson city rides, the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb, Sky Feast Fusion dining at Sydney Tower, and exclusive gala dinners at iconic cricket stadiums including the MCG and SCG with celebrity cricketers. Corporate itineraries have also featured curated city explorations in vintage cars, helicopter experiences along scenic coastal routes, heritage train journeys such as the Puffing Billy, and bespoke winery engagements in the Yarra Valley. These thoughtfully curated experiences have enabled organisations to create valuable moments for corporate groups and employees, leaving a lasting impression well beyond the program itself. The event format enabled a seamless blend of business and networking, featuring engaging discussions and one-on-one interactions that allowed participants to explore destination opportunities and customized MICE solutions. Mr. SD Nandakumar, President & Country Head – Holidays and Corporate Tours, SOTC Travel, said, “India’s MICE segment is evolving rapidly, with corporates looking beyond conventional destinations, seeking experiences that inspire, engage and deliver lasting value. This engagement marked our focused effort to strengthen Australia’s positioning within the competitive MICE landscape. With its extraordinary landscapes, vibrant cities, and world-class MICE infrastructure, Australia offers a compelling proposition for Indian corporates. At SOTC Travel, we remain committed to delivering customized MICE solutions that cater to the evolving needs of our clients, while ensuring seamless and memorable experiences. We believe this initiative will further reinforce Australia’s appeal as a preferred destination for MICE programs, with significant potential for growth in the years ahead.”

SOTC Travel announces association with Padma Shri Anuradha Paudwal to promote its Darshans spiritual packages

vibrantcoloursmagazine / April 8, 2026

SOTC Travel, a leading omnichannel Travel and Tourism Company has announced a special association with renowned singer and Padma Shri awardee Anuradha Paudwal, for its spiritual range of packages. The collaboration comes as spiritual tourism continues to see strong momentum in India, with travellers increasingly seeking journeys that combine faith, culture and meaningful experiences. Through this association, SOTC aims to deepen its engagement with devotees and inspire travellers to explore curated pilgrimage experiences across India and the Indian subcontinent. SOTC’s Darshans portfolio offers thoughtfully designed spiritual journeys that combine seamless travel with meaningful devotional experiences. Packages include curated itineraries, ritual and darshan assistance where available, comfortable stays, vegetarian meals and dedicated tour managers. The journeys are also designed to be senior-citizen-friendly, ensuring comfort and accessibility for travellers. Mr. SD Nandakumar, President & Country Head – Holidays and Corporate Tours, SOTC Travel, said “Spiritual tourism is witnessing strong momentum in India as travellers increasingly seek journeys that are meaningful and rooted in faith. With our Darshans portfolio, we aim to create pilgrimage experiences that combine devotion with comfort, seamless planning and thoughtful curation. Our focus is to simplify the travel experience so that devotees can focus entirely on their spiritual journey. Padma Shri Anuradha Paudwal has been synonymous with spiritual devotion for decades and resonates deeply with millions of Indian devotees. Our association with her for our Darshan’s portfolio beautifully blends the spirit of faith and devotion that defines these journeys, and we hope it inspires more travellers to embark on meaningful spiritual experiences.” Sharing her thoughts on the collaboration, Padma Shri Anuradha Paudwal said, “Devotional music has always been a pathway for people to connect with faith and experience spiritual peace. Pilgrimage journeys carry that same spirit of devotion and reflection. I am delighted to associate with SOTC’s Darshans initiative, which enables devotees to experience sacred destinations with comfort and ease. Through these thoughtfully designed spiritual journeys, travellers can focus on the deeper purpose of pilgrimage while immersing themselves in the spiritual energy of these destinations. I believe this collaboration will encourage more people to undertake journeys that nurture faith and inner connection.”

Türkiye’s Kaçkar Mountains Take the Global Stage with International Events

vibrantcoloursmagazine / April 8, 2026

Rising majestically in Türkiye’s North Black Sea region within Rize and Artvin provinces, the Kaçkar Mountains stand as one of the most remarkable nature and adventure destinations in Türkiye, offering diverse experiences throughout all four seasons. The Kaçkars continue to shine on the global stage through prestigious international events they host with this unparalleled richness. Following the successful launch of the esteemed KAÇKAR BY UTMB mountain ultramarathon last year, the International Kaçkar Tourism Fair is now set to take place in Rize from April 17–18, 2026. Organised with the support of the Republic of Türkiye Ministry of Culture and Tourism and the Türkiye Tourism Promotion and Development Agency (TGA), the International Kaçkar Tourism Fair aims to transform the Kaçkar Mountains and the Black Sea region’s unique natural beauty and rich cultural heritage into global centres of attraction. As the region’s most prestigious tourism event, the fair will go beyond a traditional exhibition through panels, conferences, and workshops where participants explore emerging tourism trends and build new collaborations. This year, the fair will gather more than 1,000 industry representatives and over 3,000 visitors at the Rize Tea Bazaar. Black Sea Wonderland: Where Nature, Culture, and History Meet Offering a diverse range of experiences across all four seasons, the Kaçkar Mountains stand out with peerless routes for nature and adventure enthusiasts, deep-rooted history, and a rich gastronomic culture. The region is also one of Türkiye’s most pristine natural areas, home to over 50 alpine lakes, deep valleys, lush forests reflecting every shade of green, and rushing streams shaped by diverse ecosystems. Rising to 3,937 metres, Kaçkar Mountain, the highest peak of the range, dominates this dramatic landscape and enhances the region’s appeal for trekking, mountaineering, and nature exploration. Visitors can hike along scenic trails, cycle through winding valleys, observe rare wildlife, and capture breathtaking photographs. During winter, when snow blankets the majestic mountains, the Kaçkars become a premier destination for snowshoeing, skiing, snowboarding, and heliskiing. Beyond its virgin nature, the Kaçkars offer a seamless blend of experiences, from cultural immersion to sustainable tourism. Visitors can stay in eco-friendly accommodations, witness authentic local lifestyles, and explore numerous historic monuments. The local communities of these highlands provide profound insight into the region’s heritage. Their preserved languages and traditional handicrafts, alongside the sounds of the tulum (bagpipe) and the rhythmic horon dance, captivate travellers seeking genuine local experiences. From vibrant highland festivals to tea harvest celebrations, guests can also fully immerse themselves in the region’s spirited traditions. The Kaçkar highlands also stand out as a premier wellness destination, where pristine nature and crisp mountain air create an ideal environment for rest and renewal. Visitors can experience both traditional and modern wellness practices in harmony with the surrounding landscape, while the thermal springs of Ayder offer natural healing and relaxation in one of the region’s most iconic settings. Complementing these experiences is the region’s distinctive culinary heritage, celebrated for its organic honey, medicinal mountain herbs, world-renowned tea, and fresh seafood, making every adventure in the Kaçkars truly unforgettable. The Kaçkars’ Growing Global Footprint With this year-round diversity, the Kaçkar Mountains are increasingly drawing global attention, cementing their place on the world tourism stage. The fact that the Turkish leg of the UTMB World Series and International Kaçkar Tourism Fair are hosted here is a testament to this rise. After the fair in April, the 2026 edition of KAÇKAR BY UTMB is also set to take place in Rize from September 11–13.

Travel, Latest News, Tourism

Department of Tourism, Goa Secures Lifetime Membership with ICPB to Propel MICE Sector

vibrantcoloursmagazine / April 1, 2026

PANAJI, 26 March, GOA – In a strategic move to position the state as a premier global destination for corporate travel and large-scale business events, Department of Tourism, Goa has officially secured a Lifetime Membership with the India Convention Promotion Bureau (ICPB). This milestone collaboration marks a significant step in Goa’s ongoing initiative to expand its tourism portfolio beyond its world-renowned beaches and firmly establish itself as a 365-day hub for Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE). To mark this significant partnership, the official Lifetime Membership certificate was handed over to Department of Tourism, Goa by Mr. Arun Srivastava, Joint Director General, Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, Mr. Neeraj Dhawan, Treasurer, ICPB, andDr. Poonam Rajput, Executive Director, ICPB at a formal ceremony at Assembleia, Taj Cidade de Goa Horizon on Thursday, March 26, 2026. Goa has been rapidly transforming its tourism landscape to cater to the growing demand for “bleisure” (business combined with leisure) travel. The state is actively developing its business-ready infrastructure, including upcoming convention centers at the Rua-De-Ourem Creek and Margao, alongside the enhanced global connectivity provided by the Manohar International Airport (MOPA). Building on the success of flawlessly executing high-profile international gatherings, such as the G20 working group meetings, Department of Tourism, Goa is actively promoting a sustainable, regenerative tourism model. By integrating the state’s rich heritage, eco-tourism, wellness offerings, and hinterland attractions into the corporate travel experience, Goa provides an unmatched, holistic environment for modern event planners. To further strengthen the ecosystem, identified venues in Goa will be encouraged to take up Associate Membership under ICPB, with active support from the Department of Tourism, ensuring deeper integration with the national MICE network and greater opportunities for local stakeholders. Mr. Arun Srivastava, Joint Director General, Ministry of Tourism, emphasized the national alignment: “The Ministry of Tourism is fully committed to positioning India as a global MICE hub. Goa’s integration into the ICPB network as a Lifetime Member aligns perfectly with our national strategy. By synergizing local charm with world-class infrastructure, Goa is setting a benchmark for how states can diversify their tourism offerings.” Mr. Neeraj Dhawan, Treasurer, ICPB, welcomed the partnership, stating: “Goa’s entry as a Lifetime Member is a tremendous boost to our collective efforts at ICPB. By collaborating directly with the Department of Tourism, Goa we can effectively showcase the state’s unique MICE infrastructure and vibrant venues to our global network. This partnership will undoubtedly pave the way for more diverse, high-quality business events in India and provide actionable value to our stakeholders.” Speaking on the development, Rohan A. Khaunte, Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, said, “This lifetime membership with ICPB reinforces our commitment to positioning Goa as a leading destination for business and corporate events. We are focused on creating a robust ecosystem that blends world-class infrastructure with Goa’s unique experiential appeal, enabling us to attract high-value global events while driving sustainable tourism growth for the state.” The lifetime partnership with ICPB unlocks a range of strategic advantages designed to elevate Goa’s standing in the global MICE industry. The membership will significantly enhance Goa’s visibility across national and international platforms, promoting the state’s MICE capabilities to leading event organizers and corporate decision-makers.