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By Manu Vardhan Kannan
Published on July 21, 2025
Foreign travellers heading to Europe may soon have to pay nearly three times more for the region’s new digital travel permit. The European Union has proposed increasing the ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) fee to 20 euros (approx. USD 23), a steep rise from the originally planned 7 euros.
This change, unveiled by the European Commission, comes as the EU aims to adjust for inflation, operational demands, and to better align the permit cost with global equivalents. For instance, the U.S. charges USD 21 for its ESTA, while the UK’s ETA costs 16 pounds (around USD 21).
Expected to roll out in the last quarter of 2026, ETIAS will be mandatory for travellers from visa-exempt countries like the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom, entering any of the 27 EU member states (excluding Ireland) as well as Norway, Switzerland, Iceland, and Liechtenstein. The permit will be valid for three years.
While travellers aged under 18 or over 70 will be exempt from paying the fee, others will need to apply online before their trip. The system is intended to enhance border safety by identifying security risks, irregular migration, and other concerns in advance, making travel both safer and smoother for eligible visitors.
The European Parliament and member states now have two months to review this fee adjustment. Once approved, it will go into effect with the launch of the ETIAS system, which has already seen multiple delays, largely due to its link with a yet-to-be-implemented automated border control system.
This proposal comes amid the EU’s broader financial plan, including a two-trillion-euro long-term budget (2028–2034), which aims to fund priorities like defence and agriculture. Brussels hopes to raise funds through new revenue tools such as a carbon border tax and an e-waste levy, targeting 58 billion euros annually.
As the EU moves to strengthen both financial sustainability and border security, the updated ETIAS fee stands as a key piece of its evolving travel and economic framework.
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By Hariharan U
Published on August 31, 2025
In a move that promises easier travel, Argentina has eased entry rules for Indian citizens who already hold valid US visas. With this policy, Indians travelling on US tourist visas can now visit Argentina without the need for an additional Argentine visa.
The announcement was made by Argentina’s Ambassador to India, Mariano Caucino, who described it as “wonderful news for both Argentina and India.” Sharing the update on X, the ambassador added that Argentina is ready to welcome more Indian tourists to explore its rich culture and natural beauty.
“This is wonderful news for both Argentina and India. We’re ready to welcome more Indian tourists into our wonderful country,” he said.
The change in visa policy comes as India and Argentina continue to strengthen their bilateral relationship. Earlier this year, Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Argentina’s President Javier Milei in Buenos Aires, underscoring growing cooperation between the two countries.
Agriculture has been a key focus of this partnership. In July, the second Joint Working Group (JWG) meeting on agriculture was held in New Delhi, with both sides exploring collaboration in areas such as mechanisation, pest management, climate-resilient farming and joint research.
With smoother travel access now in place, the move is expected to encourage more Indian visitors to consider Argentina as a destination, while also furthering cultural and economic ties between the two nations.
Al Habtoor Hospitality has unveiled “The Rewarding Escape”, a one-of-a-kind experience that connects the timeless grandeur of Europe with the vibrant luxury of the Middle East. The offer allows guests to enjoy Budapest’s regal Al Habtoor Palace and Dubai’s modern hospitality landmarks in a seamless journey across continents.
The program invites travelers to begin their escape in Budapest, where the Al Habtoor Palace epitomizes imperial elegance with its ornate architecture, regal suites, and views of the Danube. Guests can then continue their adventure in Dubai, where sunlit suites overlook the Arabian Gulf and a skyline of futuristic marvels.
Under this initiative, travelers who book a suite for three or more nights at Al Habtoor Palace Budapest receive a complimentary one-night suite stay including breakfast at participating hotels in Dubai or vice versa. This distinctive offer creates a bridge between two worlds, combining Europe’s cultural heritage with Dubai’s cosmopolitan energy.
“The Rewarding Escape is our promise to deliver more than just a stay, it’s an invitation to experience the full spectrum of our hospitality,” said Sunder Iyer, Chief Operating Officer of Al Habtoor Hospitality. “Al Habtoor Palace Budapest is a jewel in our European portfolio, and we are delighted to connect its imperial grandeur with the dynamic spirit of Dubai.”
Offer Details
Valid for suite reservations made directly with the hotels until December 31, 2025
Stays must be completed by May 31, 2026
Complimentary night voucher issued after initial stay
Subject to availability and blackout dates
Participating Hotels in “The Rewarding Escape”
Budapest:
Al Habtoor Palace Budapest, Preferred Hotels & Resorts
Complimentary stay options in Dubai when booking Budapest:
Al Habtoor Palace Dubai, Preferred Hotels & Resorts
Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah
Al Habtoor Polo Resort
Imperial Hotel Vienna
Dubai:
Al Habtoor Grand Resort, Autograph Collection
Hilton Dubai Al Habtoor City
V Hotel Dubai, Curio Collection by Hilton
Complimentary stay redeemable at Al Habtoor Palace Budapest when booking Dubai.
With this initiative, Al Habtoor Hospitality aims to transform luxury travel into a multi-destination experience, allowing guests to embrace two worlds in one journey.
Published on August 30, 2025
Monika Alcobev Limited, India’s only listed premium wine and spirits importer, has announced the arrival of Licor 43, Spain’s most celebrated liqueur, to Indian shores. Recognised as the world’s fastest-growing premium liqueur, Licor 43 is now officially available in India, a market that continues to embrace premium spirits and cocktail culture.
The launch reflects Monika Alcobev’s growing role in introducing globally acclaimed brands to Indian consumers. Known for its strong distribution network and premium alcobev portfolio, the company has partnered with Spain’s Zamora Company to bring this iconic liqueur into bars, restaurants, and retail shelves across India.
“Bringing Licor 43 to India is a significant milestone, not just for us, but for the evolving palate of Indian consumers”, said Kunal Patel, Managing Director of Monika Alcobev. “The brand is iconic, versatile, and crafted for modern mixology, and we’re excited to lead its debut in the Indian market.”
Crafted from a blend of 43 natural ingredients including botanicals, spices, and citrus fruits Licor 43 has been a Spanish household favourite for over 70 years. Today, it enjoys popularity in more than 80 countries worldwide. In India, drinkers will now be able to try its globally loved serves such as the refreshing Mini Beer and the indulgent Carajillo 43.
The Indian launch includes Licor 43 Original (700ml and 1000ml), along with indulgent variants such as Licor 43 Chocolate (700ml) and Licor 43 Crème Brûlée (700ml). The debut also brings in other favourites from Zamora Company’s portfolio: Martin Miller’s Gin, and Villa Massa’s Limoncello and Amaretto.
Expressing excitement about the partnership, Ankit Shah, Area Director, AMEA, Zamora Company, said, “The imported spirits market in India is steadily growing, driven by higher disposable incomes and a strong premiumization trend. We are confident that our partnership with Monika Alcobev will help us connect with discerning consumers seeking unique and high-quality products”.
Monika Alcobev already enjoys a strong foothold in North and West India and is expanding rapidly in the South, with reach across Karnataka, Telangana, and Tamil Nadu. The launch of Licor 43 will also extend to key cities in East India, strengthening its pan-India presence. Currently, Licor 43 is available in Goa and Mumbai, with more markets to follow soon. Its tagline, “Mix Something New” reflects the brand’s spirit of innovation and Monika Alcobev’s commitment to bringing the finest global flavours to Indian consumers.
With this debut, Monika Alcobev not only adds another celebrated name to its growing portfolio but also reinforces its mission to shape India’s premium spirits landscape.
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