Kerala introduces a cost-effective luxury cruise from Kochi to Dubai, priced at only a third of airfare

Kerala introduces a cost-effective luxury cruise from Kochi to Dubai, priced at only a third of airfare

By Author

Published on January 1, 2024

Kerala's enchanting coastal town of Beypore is gearing up to embark on a new chapter in tourism as cruise ships are set to grace its waters starting next year. Finance Minister KN Balagopal shared this exciting development, revealing that additional funds have been allocated for dredging at the port to facilitate this maritime venture. The initiative aligns with the broader vision of boosting Kerala's tourism, particularly focusing on the development of Malabar tourism.

Minister Balagopal disclosed that the dredging funds aim to increase the river's depth at the port, preparing the way for cruise ships to commence their journeys. The inaugural cruise ships are expected to be domestic, capable of accommodating 300 to 500 passengers. This move is anticipated to be a game-changer for Kerala's tourism, attracting more visitors to the annual Beypore International Water Fest (BIWF).

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"The cruise ships will play a crucial role in enhancing tourism in the state, and we anticipate a surge in attendance at the BIWF," remarked Minister Balagopal. He further outlined plans under the SagarMala scheme, detailing the construction of significant roads and the renovation of the wharf at Beypore port.

Speaking at the inauguration of the third edition of the four-day Beypore International Water Fest (BIWF) at Beypore Marina Beach, Minister of General Education V Sivankutty expressed delight at the festival's global popularity. Balagopal, Sivankutty, and Tourism Minister PA Mohamed Riyas jointly inaugurated the event, a vibrant celebration of water sports and entertainment held ahead of the New Year.

Minister Riyas emphasized that the BIWF was conceptualized to boost Kerala tourism, particularly in the development of Malabar tourism. He highlighted how the festival not only fosters harmony and unity among people but has also successfully attracted tourists from other states and abroad.

Beypore, with its historical significance as a maritime trade link with West Asia, is poised to reclaim its position as a bustling port. The town's strategic location, just six kilometers south of Kozhikode, adds to its allure as a potential hub for maritime tourism.

The BIWF, organized by the Department of Tourism in collaboration with the District Administration and District Tourism Promotion Council, promises a diverse array of cultural programs, a mega food festival, adventure sports activities, and the Responsible Tourism and Textile Art Festival. International participants from Turkey, Vietnam, Oman, France, and New Zealand are set to join the festivities, making the BIWF a global celebration of water, culture, and unity.

As Beypore sets sail into a new era of tourism, the cruise ships will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in enhancing Kerala's allure as a vibrant and diverse tourist destination.


Planning a Solo Trip? These Top Booking Platforms Have You Covered!

Planning a Solo Trip? These Top Booking Platforms Have You Covered!

By Nishang Narayan

Published on March 28, 2025

While traveling with loved ones can be an enriching experience, sometimes a solo adventure is just what you need to relax, recharge, and explore on your own terms. Whether it’s that long-awaited European escape or a tranquil retreat to refresh your spirit, solo travel offers the ideal opportunity for self-discovery and adventure.

If you’re considering a solo trip, planning is key for safety, comfort, and making the most of the experience. To simplify the process, we’ve compiled a list of the top travel platforms that will help you plan the ultimate solo getaway.

1. Yatra.com – Your One-Stop Travel Partner

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Yatra Online, Inc. is one of India’s leading travel service providers, offering:

  • Flight bookings (domestic & international)
  • Hotel reservations
  • Holiday packages & homestays
  • Bus, train & cab bookings
  • Cruise and in-city activity bookings

With its user-friendly interface and extensive network, Yatra makes planning your solo adventure smooth and hassle-free.

2. EaseMyTrip – Budget-Friendly & Hassle-Free

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If you're looking for a platform with great deals, EaseMyTrip is a fantastic choice! It offers:

  • Competitive prices on flights, hotels & vacation packages
  • No convenience fee on flight bookings
  • Discounts on domestic & international travel
  • User-friendly mobile app & website

Solo travelers can take advantage of special offers to make their trips more affordable and convenient.

3. TripXL – Customized Travel Solutions

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TripXL is a travel marketplace that offers affordable and comfortable holiday experiences. It stands out for its:

  • Personalized travel services & expert guidance
  • Verified travel agents for a hassle-free experience
  • Informative travel guides & vacation ideas
  • Easy-to-use booking interface

Whether you’re dreaming of the beaches of Kerala or the snowy landscapes of Scotland, TripXL offers a range of custom travel plans to suit your needs.

4. Goibibo – The Trusted Travel Partner

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Goibibo is one of India’s most trusted online travel booking platforms, offering:

  • Flight, train, bus, and car bookings
  •  A wide range of hotels, from budget to luxury
  • Quick refunds & seamless payment options
  • GoStays for standardized, affordable stays

With its easy-to-use interface and GoCash+ rewards program, Goibibo is perfect for solo travelers looking for budget-friendly yet quality travel options.

5. Booking.com – Global Travel at Your Fingertips

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A household name in global travel, Booking.com helps solo travelers find:

  • Millions of accommodation options worldwide
  • Flexible payment and cancellation policies
  • Verified guest reviews for informed decisions
  • Exclusive deals on hotels, apartments & homestays

Whether you’re looking for a cozy hostel in Bangkok, a luxury resort in Bali, or a charming homestay in Paris, Booking.com has something for every traveler.

Time to Pack Your Bags!

What are you waiting for? Book that solo trip you’ve been dreaming of and choose the perfect platform to customize your itinerary. Whether you crave an adventure-filled backpacking trip or a relaxing retreat, these top travel websites make planning easier than ever.

Cheers to discovering new places—and yourself—on your solo journey!


How India Assist Uses Tourist Information Centres (TICs) to Facilitate Smooth Travel and Special Needs at Kumbh

How India Assist Uses Tourist Information Centres (TICs) to Facilitate Smooth Travel and Special Needs at Kumbh

By Nishang Narayan

Published on February 15, 2025

Kumbh Mela is a gathering like no other—an awe-inspiring confluence of spirituality, culture, and tradition. But as millions of pilgrims and visitors converge, the challenge is clear: how do we ensure that each person’s experience is safe, accessible, and stress-free? Well, that's where India Assist steps in, working in collaboration with the Uttar Pradesh Government to modernise travel assistance for Mahakumbh 2025. Through Tourist Information Centres (TICs) located at key places like the railway stations, airport, and within the Mahakumbh area, we're making the Kumbh experience smoother for everyone.

Mr. Harish Khatri, Founder and MD at India Assist, shares valuable insights on enhancing travel experiences, as featured in our article on facilitating smooth travel and special needs at Kumbh.

These TICs are not your typical information desks. They’re lifelines for the millions attending the festival. Right from providing live updates on travel routes, assisting with local transportation, or guiding elderly pilgrims and those with disabilities, the TICs are designed to be accessible, responsive, and human-centered. When someone loses a belonging or needs help locating a loved one, TICs offer real-time assistance in locating them, ensuring that no pilgrim is left feeling lost or alone. The multilingual support ensures that visitors from across the globe feel heard and understood, breaking down language barriers and connecting them to the heart of the Kumbh experience.

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Perhaps most importantly, TICs are equipped with a team of responsive on-ground staff that allows us to address health-related emergencies quickly. From directing pilgrims to the nearest medical station or coordinating emergency response, these centres act as the first point of contact for medical aid. In a sea of people, it’s critical that help can be found without delay. With a simple tap on our mobile application, followed by a quick phone call, we ensure that pilgrims receive the immediate assistance they need. India Assist’s involvement in large-scale events like MotoGP Bharat has given us valuable experience in managing complex logistics, tech integration, and crowd management. We've learned that the key to success is seamless coordination between technology and human touch & that’s exactly what we’re bringing to Mahakumbh 2025.

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We are excited about the impact TICs will have at Kumbh. For millions of pilgrims, these centers are not just places to seek directions but also sources of care, comfort, and support. By combining technology with compassionate, on-the-ground expertise, we’re ensuring that every pilgrim’s journey remains focused on their spiritual experience, not the stress of hovering through a sea of people. As we move forward into this new era of tech-enabled religious tourism, we’re proud to play our part in making Mahakumbh 2025 safe, accessible, and unforgettable for all.


OTM 2025: Shaping the Future of Travel and Tourism

OTM 2025: Shaping the Future of Travel and Tourism

By Nishang Narayan

Published on January 18, 2025

OTM 2025, the premier travel trade show in India and Asia, is set to take place from January 30 to February 1, 2025, at Mumbai’s Jio World Convention Centre. With over 2,100 exhibitors, 40,000 buyers, and participation from 80+ countries, OTM promises to be a transformative event for the global travel and tourism industry.

This year’s edition will bring together a diverse mix of national tourism organizations, airlines, hotels, destination management companies, and travel tech innovators. Global VIPs, including Hon'ble Union Minister for Tourism and Culture Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Shri Omar Abdullah, and international leaders like H.E. Mr. Haim Katz (Minister of Tourism, Israel) and Mr. Khairul Firdaus Akbar Khan (Deputy Minister of Tourism, Malaysia), will grace the event.

Key Highlights of OTM 2025:

  • Exclusive Destinations: Countries such as Georgia, Greece, Israel, Japan, Morocco, and Peru will exclusively participate in OTM, showcasing offerings not seen at other regional travel events.
  • Networking Opportunities: Over 1,000 handpicked buyers from India’s Tier 1, 2, and 3 cities will connect with exhibitors and global destinations.
  • Thought Leadership: The OTM Forum will host discussions on key industry trends, including fireside chats with government officials and sessions featuring leaders from Airbnb, Skyscanner, Booking.com, and major corporations like Deloitte and L&T.
  • Specialized Events: Day 2 will highlight WeddingSutra Engage, a platform for wedding planners to explore trends in luxury celebrations and destination weddings.

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Expressing his enthusiasm, Mr. Sanjiv Agarwal, Founder & CEO of Fairfest Media, shared, “India is emerging as the future growth engine for global tourism. OTM 2025 will bring unmatched opportunities for the Indian travel industry to connect with international destinations and foster collaborations.”

OTM’s strategic location in Mumbai, which contributes to over 60% of India’s outbound travel, makes it the perfect venue for this event. The city’s role as a departure point for travelers underlines its importance in shaping the future of tourism.

About OTM and Fairfest Media:

OTM Mumbai is Asia’s leading travel trade show, creating unparalleled opportunities for the Indian travel industry to engage with global markets. Organized by Fairfest Media, the event attracts Tourism Ministers, CEOs, and industry leaders from around the world. With a legacy of organizing TTF-branded travel shows in seven Indian cities, Fairfest Media continues to be a pioneer in shaping the travel ecosystem in the world’s fastest-growing market.

If you are in the travel business, mark your calendars—OTM 2025 is the event you cannot afford to miss!

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