India’s travel landscape is set for a major transformation with the upcoming launch of TripXL in April 2025. Based in Siliguri, this next-generation online holiday marketplace is designed to bridge the gap between travellers and trusted local travel agents, offering tailor-made itineraries that emphasize cultural immersion, eco-consciousness, and authenticity.

Having completed a successful beta phase, TripXL is poised to deliver a seamless booking experience with a strong focus on trust, transparency, and personalized service. From family vacations and honeymoons to solo adventures and offbeat explorations, the platform connects travellers with vetted travel agents and experienced Destination Management Companies (DMCs) across India.

The platform is the brainchild of Nishi Kant Agarwal and Sashi Kant Agarwal, seasoned professionals with over a decade of experience in the aviation and hospitality industries. Their vision was to create a global marketplace for custom travel while nurturing local tourism ecosystems.

“We believe in the philosophy of ‘going global while acting local,’” shared Anil Lohia, COO of TripXL. “In today’s digital world, while bookings are easier than ever, trust remains a challenge. TripXL aims to build that trust by delivering real value and verified experiences with safety and transparency at the core.”

With over 200 travel agents from North, South, and Eastern India already onboard, TripXL plans to expand its network to 400 agents by June 2025. The platform offers these agents cutting-edge tools, an integrated booking portal, and full tech support—at zero investment—helping them grow their business and reach new markets.

Backed by its operational bases in Siliguri, Gurugram, Bengaluru, and Gujarat, TripXL is now preparing to enter the Mumbai market. The company aims to set new benchmarks in responsible tourism while ensuring every traveller enjoys a flexible, green, and enriched journey.

TripXL’s platform blends technology, innovation, and storytelling through a robust blog network, making it more than just a booking portal—it’s an ecosystem where travellers are empowered and local agents are uplifted.

With strong values of commitment, accountability, respect, excellence, and sincerity, TripXL is ready to become India’s go-to marketplace for memorable, meaningful, and sustainable travel.

StarCruises is set to make waves once again with the highly anticipated arrival of Star Voyager in Hong Kong from 27 June to 31 August 2025. Marking a major comeback for the revitalized StarCruises brand, this season will see the ship offering a host of exciting itineraries to Okinawa, Japan and Taiwan, reaffirming its strong roots in Hong Kong where the brand first launched over 30 years ago.

Designed to boost cruise tourism in the region, Star Voyager’s Hong Kong season promises new travel opportunities for guests looking for fresh and accessible voyages. The itineraries will include a mix of 2, 3, and 5-night cruises to stunning destinations like Taipei (Keelung), Kaohsiung, Penghu, Naha, and Ishigaki, with a special 2-Night Weekend High Seas Cruise every Friday, perfect for quick getaways.

"We are proud to return to Hong Kong, a city that holds a special place in StarCruises’ history. Star Voyager represents a renewed vision, offering exceptional regional cruise experiences for both domestic travelers and the growing Fly and Rail cruise segment," said Mr. Michael Goh, President of StarDream Cruises.

Highlights of Star Voyager Cruises from Hong Kong:

Cruises to Taiwan:

• 3 Night Kaohsiung and Penghu Cruise (Sundays – 29 June; 13 July; 10 August 2025)

• 2 Night Kaohsiung Cruise (Wednesdays – 2 & 16 July; 13 August 2025)

Guests can explore Kaohsiung’s vibrant art scene and bustling night markets, and Penghu’s crystal-clear waters and historic villages, making for a perfect cultural-meets-coastal adventure.

Cruises to Japan:

• 5 Night Ishigaki and Naha Cruise (Sundays – 6 July & 3 August 2025)

• 5 Night Naha and Ishigaki Cruise (Sundays – 20 July & 17 August 2025)

Experience the tropical beauty and rich Ryukyu culture of Okinawa’s popular island destinations, offering a mix of vibrant shopping streets, lush landscapes, and historic landmarks.

Combined Cruises to Japan and Taiwan:

• 5 Night Ishigaki, Keelung, and Penghu Cruise (Sundays – 27 July & 24 August 2025)

This itinerary blends the best of Japan and Taiwan into one incredible voyage.

Weekend High Seas Cruises:

• 2 Night Cruises every Friday (27 June; 4, 11, 18 & 25 July; 1, 8, 15, 22 & 29 August 2025)

Ideal for those seeking a quick luxury escape, guests can relax onboard with premium accommodations, live entertainment, themed events, water parks, ziplining, and 24/7 butler services in the Palace Suites.

Booking Details:

Reservations open from 7 May 2025 through local travel partners or directly via www.rwcruises.com.

About StarCruises:

Revitalized from its legacy of over 30 years, the StarCruises brand brings a fresh and dynamic lifestyle cruising experience to Asia. Featuring mid-sized ships like Star Navigator and Star Voyager, the fleet offers affordable premium cruising with vibrant onboard entertainment, world-class dining, and personalized services.

In a world where global travel, diplomacy, and security intersect, recent developments during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s return from Saudi Arabia have captured national attention—and hold significance for industries beyond politics, including hospitality and tourism.

On his return journey to India, following an official visit to Saudi Arabia, Prime Minister Modi’s aircraft deliberately avoided Pakistani airspace, rerouting via the Arabian Sea and re-entering Indian airspace through Gujarat. This strategic shift was made in light of heightened security concerns stemming from a tragic terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam region, which claimed the lives of at least 26 civilians, including tourists.

Travel Decisions Reflect Geopolitical Realities

The choice to alter flight paths, especially for a nation's leader, is rarely taken lightly. In this case, the decision underscores the larger geopolitical challenges that can influence international air travel and diplomatic movement. While the aviation and travel industries have often served as bridges between nations, they are also directly impacted when tensions rise.

As a platform deeply rooted in hospitality and travel, Hospitalitynews sees this as a reminder of how the industry's landscape can shift dramatically due to external events. Airspace closures, route diversions, and security protocols not only affect heads of state but also shape tourism flows, travel confidence, and international mobility.

Emergency Response and National Focus

Upon landing at the Palam Air Force Base in New Delhi, Prime Minister Modi immediately convened a high-level emergency meeting. Key national figures—including National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar, and Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri—joined the discussions to address the aftermath of the Pahalgam attack and assess the national response.

This swift and focused action demonstrates the critical role of leadership during crises. For the hospitality sector, particularly those operating in or near sensitive regions, such incidents emphasize the importance of crisis management, security preparedness, and constant communication with governmental agencies.

Impact on Tourism and Hospitality

The tragedy in Jammu and Kashmir is also a sobering reminder of how tourism can be affected by instability. Pahalgam, a region often associated with scenic beauty and hospitality, has hosted thousands of domestic and international tourists over the years. Incidents of violence not only tarnish the destination’s appeal but also strain local businesses—from hotels and homestays to transport operators and guides—whose livelihoods depend on stable visitor flows.

We, at Hospitalitynews, stand with the hospitality community in Kashmir and other affected regions. As an industry that thrives on trust, safety, and seamless experiences, we are reminded of the essential role hoteliers and tourism professionals play in rebuilding confidence through compassion, service, and resilience.

The Road Ahead: A Call for Unified Industry Response

This episode serves as more than a headline. It is a call for solidarity, preparedness, and coordinated effort across sectors. The hospitality and travel industries must remain vigilant, adaptable, and united in the face of uncertainties. Whether it’s working closely with local authorities, reassuring travelers through transparent communication, or investing in safety measures, our commitment to guest well-being must be unwavering.

We extend our deepest condolences to the families of the victims and salute the resolve of those on the front lines—both in public service and within our own industry. As we look ahead, let us reaffirm our dedication to creating safe, welcoming environments for all.

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