Red Dot Representations, a leading name in international destination marketing, has joined forces with Thang Long International Travel & Trade Investment JSC (Thang Long Tours), one of Vietnam’s top destination management companies. This partnership is set to introduce Indian and global travelers to Vietnam’s rich cultural experiences, breathtaking landscapes, and personalized travel offerings.

With Vietnam emerging as a sought-after travel hotspot, particularly among Indian tourists, this collaboration will leverage Red Dot Representations’ expertise to position the country as a go-to destination for leisure, adventure, and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) travel. Travelers will gain exclusive access to Thang Long Tours’ locally immersive itineraries, crafted to offer an authentic experience beyond mainstream tourism.

Thang Long Tours, known for its philosophy of helping travelers "experience truly like the locals," curates tailor-made journeys that showcase Vietnam’s heritage, scenic beauty, and vibrant local life. The company collaborates with accommodation providers and excursion organizers to deliver seamless travel experiences that leave a lasting impression.

Sharing his thoughts on the partnership, Prabhakar Kamat, Business Head at Red Dot Representations, said, "We are thrilled to collaborate with Thang Long Tours to bring uniquely personalized Vietnam experiences to global travelers. Vietnam’s diverse landscapes, cultural richness, and warm hospitality make it a must-visit destination, and with Thang Long Tours’ deep-rooted knowledge of the region, we aim to craft unforgettable journeys for our clientele."

Echoing this sentiment, Emma Le, Inbound Director at Thang Long Tours, added, "Vietnam’s charm lies in its vibrant culture, storied history, and unparalleled hospitality. Through our partnership with Red Dot Representations, we look forward to showcasing Vietnam in a way that goes beyond traditional tourist trails, offering Indian travelers a truly immersive experience."

As Vietnam’s tourism industry continues to flourish, this collaboration is set to redefine how travelers experience the country, offering a perfect blend of adventure, heritage, and local flavors.

A deadly fire engulfed a ski resort hotel in Kartalkaya, Turkey, early Tuesday morning, claiming at least 76 lives and leaving 51 others injured. Among the victims, many were children, including young students aged 10 and 11, as families and holidaymakers were caught in the flames and smoke.

The tragedy struck during the school holiday season, with 234 guests staying at the hotel in Bolu province. Eyewitnesses described the harrowing scene as desperate guests leaped from windows and attempted to escape using tied bedsheets.

 Image Credits - Getty Images

Turkey’s Interior Minister, Ali Yerlikaya, reported that the blaze began at 3:27 a.m., with emergency crews arriving nearly an hour later. Despite the swift mobilization of 267 emergency responders, including 30 fire trucks and 28 ambulances, the 12-story cliffside structure posed significant challenges for firefighting efforts.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan declared a national day of mourning on Wednesday, urging solidarity in the wake of the tragedy. “Today is a day for unity,” Erdogan emphasized, promising that those responsible would face justice.

Authorities have detained nine individuals as part of an ongoing investigation. Reports indicate that the hotel’s fire detection system failed to function, exacerbating the disaster. Survivors recounted the chaos, with one guest stating, “The alarm didn’t go off. My wife smelled the burning... We saw people hanging from windows, screaming for help.”

The resort, a popular winter destination for skiers from Istanbul and Ankara, saw its busiest period interrupted by the blaze. Other hotels in the area were evacuated as a precaution, with displaced guests accommodated elsewhere in Bolu.

As rescue operations and investigations continue, the Kartalkaya fire serves as a stark reminder of the importance of safety measures in public spaces.

Destination Management Companies (DMCs) are at the forefront of transforming travel hubs into vibrant, tourist-friendly spaces. Their expertise in blending sustainability with local culture is paving the way for a stronger and more resilient tourism infrastructure. Here’s how notable DMCs are shaping global tourism:

1. Kenya: Wild Whispers
Kenya's iconic safari experiences owe much to the innovative efforts of Wild Whispers. Focused on eco-friendly practices, the company partners with local communities and wildlife conservancies to safeguard Kenya's rich biodiversity.

“Tourism in Kenya is about more than luxury lodges; it’s about preserving wildlife and empowering local communities,” says Aman Shah, CEO of Wild Whispers. By training local guides, creating private conservancies, and adopting sustainable solutions like solar-powered camps, the company ensures an elevated travel experience while benefiting the environment and communities.

2. Bali: Tria Uma Wisata Tours & Travels
Tria Uma Wisata in Bali is redefining tourism with a focus on cultural preservation and authentic local experiences. Collaborating with artisans and farmers, they bring Bali’s rich traditions to life for visitors.

“Bali is a cultural and spiritual haven beyond its beaches. Our aim is to ensure tourism supports and preserves this identity,” shares Niluh Werdiani, Managing Director. By promoting eco-resorts and organizing workshops in traditional crafts like batik and gamelan music, the company strengthens Bali’s cultural legacy while enriching its tourism offerings.

3. Jordan: Plan B Travel & Tourism
Jordan’s timeless heritage finds a global audience thanks to Plan B Travel & Tourism. The company curates diverse travel experiences that highlight both iconic attractions and hidden gems.

“Our mission is to honor Jordan’s heritage while making it accessible to the world,” says Rana Abu Alhala, CEO. Plan B’s itineraries seamlessly combine famous sites like Petra and Wadi Rum with lesser-explored destinations such as Jerash and Madaba, catering to every type of traveler.

4. Sri Lanka: Hayleys
Despite challenges, Hayleys is driving Sri Lanka’s tourism recovery with innovative offerings like wellness retreats, cultural tours, and wildlife safaris.

“Sri Lanka has a powerful story to share, and we’re helping shape its future through enhanced tourism infrastructure,” explains Suchitra Aluwihare, COO of Hayleys Travels. Their initiatives include training naturalists, collaborating with Ayurvedic resorts, and creating eco-lodges to showcase the island’s breathtaking biodiversity.

DMCs like Wild Whispers, Tria Uma Wisata, Plan B, and Hayleys exemplify how a localized, sustainable approach can redefine tourism. As travelers increasingly seek meaningful and conscious experiences, these companies are leading the way in building stronger, more enriching destinations.