How DMCs Are Transforming Tourism Infrastructure Globally

How DMCs Are Transforming Tourism Infrastructure Globally

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on December 6, 2024

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.

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“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.

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“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.

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“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.

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“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.


Air Canada Doubles Delhi Toronto Flights Amid Rising Demand

Air Canada Doubles Delhi Toronto Flights Amid Rising Demand

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on March 11, 2026

Air Canada has increased the frequency of its Delhi–Toronto flights, making the service double daily to meet the rising demand for travel between India and North America.

The move comes at a time when airlines operating between the Middle East and North America are facing capacity challenges. The ongoing Israel-Iran conflict has resulted in the closure of several airspaces across the Middle East, leading to widespread disruption. Many airlines have been forced to cancel or delay flights to the region and on routes that pass through it.

To respond to the growing demand, Canada’s flag carrier is now operating two flights a day between Delhi and Toronto until the end of April. The enhanced schedule is aimed at supporting Indian travellers planning trips to North America during this period.

Under the current schedule, one flight departs from Delhi at 21:45 and arrives in Toronto at 05:00 the following day. The return service leaves Toronto at 19:55 and lands in Delhi at 20:10 the next day.

Travellers looking for more details on schedules and service updates can visit Air Canada’s official website for the latest information on flights between India and Canada.


The Hari Hong Kong Launches ‘This is Izakaya’ at Zoku and Seasonal Menus at Lucciola

The Hari Hong Kong Launches ‘This is Izakaya’ at Zoku and Seasonal Menus at Lucciola

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on October 3, 2025

The Hari Hong Kong is bringing fresh dining experiences this season with the launch of ‘This is Izakaya’ at Zoku and new seasonal menus at Lucciola.

At Zoku restaurant & The Terrace, Wednesdays now come alive with ‘This is Izakaya’, a lively Japanese dining experience that blends food, drinks, and music. Inspired by izakaya culture in Japan, guests can enjoy Nomihodai (free-flow drinks at a set price) paired with unlimited shared snacks, while live performances from singers and DJs create a vibrant midweek gathering.

The curated menu includes salmon tartar tacos, spicy edamame, Kyushu chicken wings, sake salmon skewers in teriyaki sauce, and sushi rolls like Kagoshima pork belly with pickled radish, miso, and lime or salmon with avocado, cucumber, and ponzu. Prices start at HKD368 per person for 90 minutes, with optional add-ons such as tiger prawn tempura (HKD58) and soft-shell crab rolls (HKD48). The drinks menu ranges from Asahi to martinis, along with non-alcoholic beers and crafted zero-proof cocktails.

Zoku’s October entertainment line-up includes DJ Miles, singer-songwriter Lili Forest 木子, singer Kasey Pong, busker RT Wong, and songwriter Josh Dionisio. With its striking design of leather booths, crimson banquettes, and origami-like timber ceilings, Zoku offers an intimate yet dynamic atmosphere.

Meanwhile, Lucciola, The Hari’s Italian restaurant, is highlighting the best of sea and woodland ingredients with new seasonal offerings. Seafood takes center stage every weekend with dishes like Impepata di Cozze (black-peppered steamed mussels), Crudo di Mare (fresh seafood platter), and Ostriche e Caviale (seasonal oysters with Ossetra caviar. On Thursdays, the ‘Mussel-icious’ promotion offers endless mussels with fries and salad.

Lucciola is also celebrating autumn flavors with a porcini mushroom set menu available until November 15, 2025. The multi-course menu showcases porcini mushrooms from northern Italy and Mediterranean figs in dishes such as Carpaccio di Fichi with Parma ham, Tagliatelle Funghi with beef cheek ragout, and Risotto Carnaroli with porcini, tomino cheese, and seasonal black truffle. Desserts include tiramisu, caramelized fig pie, or almond lemon cake. The full menu is priced at HKD688, with smaller course options starting at HKD568.

Both experiences highlight The Hari Hong Kong’s continued innovation in blending international flavors with immersive dining experiences, creating memorable evenings for its guests.


Hilton Debuts Tapestry Collection in Northern Ireland with The Marcus Portrush

Hilton Debuts Tapestry Collection in Northern Ireland with The Marcus Portrush

By Nishang Narayan

Published on July 7, 2025

Hilton has unveiled The Marcus Portrush, a Tapestry Collection hotel, marking the debut of this upscale brand in Northern Ireland. The property features 80 elegantly designed rooms and is located along the stunning North Atlantic coastline in Portrush.

Housed in a beautifully restored Victorian building that dates back to 1895—once a hotel and artisan bakery—the £11 million ($15 million) renovation has carefully preserved historical elements such as original mosaic signage and floor mosaics.

The hotel’s opening is strategically aligned with the 153rd Open Championship, scheduled to be held at the nearby Royal Portrush Golf Club from 13–20 July 2025. This prestigious golf event returns to Northern Ireland for the first time since 2019, expected to draw a significant influx of international visitors.

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Stephen Cassidy, Senior Vice President for Hilton UK & Ireland, said, “Northern Ireland has seen a strong rise in tourism in recent years, drawing travellers from around the world to experience its unique charm. As the only internationally branded hotel in Portrush, The Marcus Portrush offers high-quality accommodation with an authentic local touch, making it the perfect base for visitors eager to explore all that Northern Ireland has to offer.”

The development stems from a franchise agreement with Andras House, Northern Ireland’s largest hotel group. The new hotel is projected to contribute around £1.1 million annually through visitor spending and create more than 40 permanent local jobs, reinforcing Portrush’s position as a key tourism hub.

Earlier this year, Hilton also announced a partnership with Loughview Leisure Group to bring a DoubleTree by Hilton to Belfast City Centre, further strengthening its footprint in Northern Ireland’s hospitality market.

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