Exploring Lucknow's Rich Cultural Heritage: InterGlobe Foundation and IndiGoReach Organise a 'My City My Heritage' Walk

Exploring Lucknow's Rich Cultural Heritage: InterGlobe Foundation and IndiGoReach Organise a 'My City My Heritage' Walk

By Nishang Narayan

Published on February 24, 2025

InterGlobe Foundation, the philanthropic arm of InterGlobe Enterprises, and IndiGoReach, the CSR division of IndiGo, recently hosted a Heritage Walk in Lucknow as part of their ‘My City My Heritage’ campaign. In collaboration with Sahapedia, the event aimed to highlight the city's historical significance, architectural marvels, and cultural evolution.

The walk, titled "Awadhi Begum, Nawab aur British," explored the unique fusion of Mughal and Awadhi influences that define Lucknow’s heritage. Beginning at Begum Hazrat Mahal Park and concluding at Amir-ud-Daulah Park, participants traversed key landmarks such as Sher Darwaza, Saadat Ali Khan Maqbara, Sapper's Tomb, and Butler Park. Guided by conservation architect Nishant Upadhyay, the walk offered an engaging narrative on the city’s past, from its regal lineage to its colonial history.

Speaking on the occasion, Rohini Bhatia, Chairperson of InterGlobe Foundation, expressed her excitement about bringing the Heritage Walk to Lucknow. “By exploring the historical landmarks and hidden gems of Lucknow, we hope to connect people with the city's vibrant past and inspire them to become active stewards of its cultural legacy for generations to come,” she said.

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Pieter Elbers, CEO of IndiGo, emphasized Lucknow’s significance in India’s cultural landscape. “Lucknow is a treasure trove of India’s heritage, seamlessly blending tradition and modernity. Through our ‘My City My Heritage’ campaign, we celebrate the stories, people, and landmarks that shape the city’s identity while encouraging travel and cultural exploration,” he noted.

The ‘My City My Heritage’ initiative, launched by InterGlobe Foundation in partnership with Sahapedia in 2019, is dedicated to preserving and promoting India’s cultural heritage. Initially covering ten cities, the program has now expanded to Srinagar, Kozhikode, Lucknow, and Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar (formerly Aurangabad). The initiative goes beyond traditional conservation by actively engaging local communities to rediscover and document their urban heritage.

InterGlobe Foundation and IndiGoReach have undertaken several heritage conservation projects across India. These include the restoration of Abdur Rahim Khan-I-Khanan’s mausoleum in Delhi, the preservation of Indra Kund stepwell in Delwara, and the tile restoration of Qutb Shah’s Mausoleum. IndiGoReach has also contributed to the conservation of the Qutb Shahi Heritage Park in Hyderabad and the Lal Bagh Palace in Indore.

By fostering a deeper appreciation for cultural heritage, InterGlobe Foundation and IndiGoReach continue to bring India’s history to the forefront, ensuring that its legacy is preserved for future generations.


Thang Long Tours Showcases Vietnam’s Heritage at SATTE 2025

Thang Long Tours Showcases Vietnam’s Heritage at SATTE 2025

By Nishang Narayan

Published on February 26, 2025

Thang Long Tours brought the spirit of Vietnam to SATTE 2025, held from February 19 to 21 at Yashobhoomi, Dwarka, Delhi. Drawing in travel professionals and industry leaders, the company’s vibrant showcase at Stall C 202-A highlighted Vietnam’s rich cultural heritage, breathtaking landscapes, and immersive travel experiences.

Indian travelers seeking authentic journeys found inspiration in Thang Long’s curated itineraries, featuring the tranquil waters of Ha Long Bay, the lively streets of Hanoi, and the spiritual charm of Ninh Binh. The overwhelming interest from attendees reaffirmed Vietnam’s growing appeal as a must-visit destination for cultural and experiential travel.

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"The enthusiasm and interest we witnessed at SATTE 2025 exceeded our expectations. We were delighted to engage with so many travel experts keen on exploring Vietnam," said Emma Le, Inbound Director, Thang Long Tours, Vietnam. "This event has strengthened our ties with the Indian market, positioning Vietnam as a top choice for travelers seeking culture and authenticity."

With a successful presence at SATTE 2025, Thang Long Tours remains committed to showcasing Vietnam’s essence to the world, ensuring unforgettable travel experiences for global explorers.


Apollo Hospitals Urges Liberal Visa Policy to Boost Medical Tourism

Apollo Hospitals Urges Liberal Visa Policy to Boost Medical Tourism

By Nishang Narayan

Published on February 24, 2025

Apollo Hospitals is calling for a liberal visa policy to strengthen India's position as a global medical tourism hub. With high-quality healthcare available at a fraction of global prices, the hospital chain believes that easing visa regulations could significantly boost the influx of international patients.

Sangita Reddy, Joint Managing Director of Apollo Hospitals, emphasized the need for enhanced e-visa services and faster medical tourism visa processing. "We need to improve the ease of entry for overseas patients. Countries like Thailand, Turkey, and Singapore already offer visas on arrival, making medical travel seamless. A streamlined visa process will help India compete better in this space," she said.

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Apollo Hospitals is working closely with the government on the 'Heal in India' initiative to attract more patients. Executive Vice Chairperson Preetha Reddy highlighted the government's growing focus on medical tourism. "We now have world-class airports and infrastructure, but we need to enhance the visa process and overall patient experience upon arrival," she stated.

In addition to its policy advocacy, Apollo Hospitals is expanding its infrastructure and research collaborations. The company has announced an investment of INR 6,000 crore to add 3,000 beds across its network in the next five years. It is also partnering with IITs and other institutions to drive innovation in healthcare.

With these initiatives, Apollo Hospitals is positioning India as a top destination for medical travel while ensuring continuous growth and advancements in the healthcare sector.


Royal Caribbean Unveils Legend of the Seas – The Next Icon Class Marvel

By Nishang Narayan

Published on February 23, 2025

Royal Caribbean has unveiled the Legend of the Seas, the highly anticipated third ship in its revolutionary Icon Class. Set to redefine family vacations, Legend of the Seas will first embark on 7-night Western Mediterranean voyages from Barcelona in July 2026, before sailing year-round from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, on 6-night Western Caribbean and 8-night Southern Caribbean itineraries starting in November 2026. Every Caribbean sailing will include a stop at Perfect Day at CocoCay, Royal Caribbean’s award-winning private island.

Marking a new era of cruising, Legend of the Seas follows the footsteps of Icon of the Seas (2024) and Star of the Seas (2025), promising an unmatched vacation experience. The ship will feature eight unique neighborhoods, designed to cater to every traveler. Guests can explore more than 40 dining and bar options, enjoy the largest pool at sea, and experience heart-pounding adventures like Crown’s Edge, a thrill ride, skywalk, and ropes course suspended over the ocean. Families can also immerse themselves in Surfside, a dedicated neighborhood designed for young families.

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Speaking about the launch, Michael Bayley, President & CEO of Royal Caribbean International, said, "On the heels of celebrating one year of the record-breaking Icon Class and the memories made by vacationers of all ages on Icon, we are thrilled to announce the name of Royal Caribbean’s third Icon Class vacation. Legend of the Seas is the next bold step in this exciting era, and we look forward to bringing the revolutionary lineup of experiences to more families and adventurers across Europe, the Caribbean, and beyond."

From sun-soaked beaches in the Caribbean to cultural landmarks in France, Italy, and Spain, Legend of the Seas will offer guests unforgettable travel experiences. Caribbean highlights include snorkeling in Aruba, relaxing on the beaches of Jamaica, and exploring the vibrant streets of Curaçao.

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Currently under construction in Turku, Finland, Legend of the Seas will also be Royal Caribbean’s fourth ship powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG), reinforcing the company’s commitment to sustainability. With waste heat recovery systems, shore power connection, and other eco-friendly technologies, the ship is a key step toward Royal Caribbean’s goal of launching a net-zero cruise ship by 2035.

Bookings for Legend of the Seas will open soon on Royal Caribbean’s website, with exclusive early access for Crown & Anchor Society loyalty members on February 20.

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