Germany Targets Experience-Led Travel for Indian Tourists in

Germany Positions Culture-Led, Sustainable and Experience-Driven Travel for Indian Tourists in 2025

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on December 21, 2025

Germany continues to witness strong momentum from the Indian outbound travel market, driven by rising travel intent, improved air connectivity and a growing preference for immersive and experience-focused journeys. Over the past few years, interest from Indian travellers has steadily increased, reinforcing Germany’s position as a preferred long-haul destination.

This positive growth is reflected in recent travel performance indicators. Indian travellers recorded over 104,066 overnight stays in Germany during October 2025, highlighting consistent demand across both leisure and business travel segments. Overnight stays from India in October 2025 were also 16.5 percent higher than pre-pandemic 2019 levels, indicating sustained growth rather than a short-term rebound. According to data from the German National Tourist Board (GNTB), India recorded a total of 775,294 overnight stays from January to October 2025.

Air connectivity continues to play a crucial role in supporting this momentum. GNTB Dashboard data shows that approximately 296 flights are currently operating between India and Germany, improving access to multiple German cities and enabling more flexible, multi-city itineraries. Seat availability between the two countries stands at around 93,447 seats, further supporting steady travel volumes.

Indian travellers are also choosing to spend more time exploring the destination. The average length of stay has now crossed nine nights, reflecting a shift towards deeper exploration, slower travel and extended itineraries. This trend aligns with evolving traveller preferences for meaningful experiences over quick sightseeing trips.

Against this backdrop, the German National Tourist Office hosted a press event to outline Germany’s tourism priorities for the Indian market in 2025. The destination’s refreshed narrative focuses on culture-driven travel, romantic experiences, seasonal journeys and region-led exploration. These curated travel propositions are designed to match the changing expectations of Indian travellers.

Commenting on the initiative, Romit Theophilus, Director – Marketing & Sales Office, India, GNTO, said, “Indian outbound travel is evolving rapidly, with travellers today placing greater value on depth, relevance and personal connection rather than conventional sightseeing alone. We are seeing a clear preference for journeys that are immersive, thoughtfully paced and shaped around individual interests. Germany’s strength lies in its culturally rich regions, diverse landscapes and year-round experiences, which together allow travellers to curate journeys that are distinctive, meaningful and aligned with their evolving travel expectations.”

Germany’s rich cultural landscape continues to be a major draw for Indian travellers. Through the Cultureland Germany initiative, visitors can explore historic town centres, world-renowned museums, architectural landmarks and a vibrant contemporary arts scene. Germany has been recognised as Europe’s leading cultural travel destination for ten consecutive years, highlighting the depth and diversity of its cultural offerings.

In addition to culture-led travel, Germany is enhancing its appeal as a year-round romantic and honeymoon destination. Tailored experiences across seasons, from spring and summer countryside retreats to autumn landscapes and festive winter settings, are drawing increased interest. The Seasons Greetings programme further strengthens this appeal by showcasing Germany’s Christmas traditions, festive markets and seasonal celebrations, offering unique winter travel experiences for Indian visitors.

As Indian outbound travel continues to mature, Germany’s tourism strategy for 2025 reflects a strong alignment with emerging travel behaviours. Longer stays, region-focused exploration and experience-led journeys remain central to its approach. Backed by strong connectivity, consistent arrival volumes and high engagement levels, Germany is well positioned to deepen its relationship with the Indian market and inspire travel experiences that go beyond the conventional.

TOKYO SKYTREE Brings Cherry Blossom Season to New Heights with “THE Sakura SKYTREE”

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on February 25, 2026

As Japan gears up for its much-awaited cherry blossom season, Tobu Tower Skytree Co., Ltd. has announced a special spring programme titled “THE Sakura SKYTREE – Going to Meet the Cherry Blossoms Above the Clouds” at TOKYO SKYTREE. The limited-period experience will run from February 26 to April 14, 2026, offering visitors a fresh way to enjoy sakura from 350 metres above ground.

Designed as an alternative to traditional park hanami, the event brings cherry blossom viewing into an urban, elevated setting. Located on the Tembo Deck at Floors 350 and 340, the experience blends sakura-inspired installations with wide, uninterrupted views of Tokyo, allowing visitors to enjoy spring scenery from above the city skyline.

Built around the theme “Sky × Sakura,” the Tembo Deck will be transformed with cherry blossom décor and Japanese-style photo installations. The setting reflects the fleeting beauty of sakura while creating striking visual moments for visitors. With the Tokyo skyline as a backdrop, the space offers a modern interpretation of spring that combines tradition with a sense of scale and spectacle.

For evening visitors, a key attraction will be the seasonal showcase at the SKYTREE ROUND THEATER® on Floor 350. The observatory’s large windows will turn into a panoramic screen for a three-minute visual presentation capturing the delicate and short-lived nature of cherry blossoms. Using 24 projectors and surround sound from 13 speakers, the experience adds a cinematic layer to hanami, bringing together culture, technology, and storytelling.

Adding to the seasonal feel, the SKYTREE CAFE on Floor 350 will launch a limited-edition cherry blossom-themed menu. The offerings will include both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, along with spring-inspired sweets. Highlights include donuts in “Sakura Mochi” and “Sakura Sky Vanilla” flavours, made as 100% plant-based, vegan, and gluten-free options. The menu is designed to be visually appealing and easy to share, enhancing the overall visitor experience.

The spring theme will also extend to the W1SH RIBBON monument on the Tembo Deck, where limited-edition pink ribbons will be available during the event period. Visitors can tie their wishes onto the softly lit pink installation, reflecting themes of renewal and fresh beginnings associated with the season. The monument lighting will also shift to pink to match the overall décor.

On selected evenings, TOKYO SKYTREE itself will light up in special spring illumination called “Sakura SKY (Sakura-Sora).” Inspired by cherry blossoms set against a spring sky, gentle pink beams will represent petals floating in the wind, turning the tower into a seasonal highlight visible across the city.

With immersive décor, visual storytelling, seasonal food, and special lighting, “THE Sakura SKYTREE” positions TOKYO SKYTREE as a standout attraction during spring. By presenting the cherry blossom season from 350 metres above ground, the event offers visitors an experience that feels modern, memorable, and uniquely Tokyo.

Chef Bobby Appointed Sous Chef at TIYA in San Francisco

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on February 25, 2026

TIYA, a Michelin Guide-recognized restaurant, has announced the appointment of Chef Bobby as its new Sous Chef. The move underlines the restaurant’s continued focus on quality, innovation, and refined modern Indian cuisine in the heart of San Francisco.

In his new role, Chef Bobby will oversee day-to-day kitchen operations at TIYA. His responsibilities include ensuring smooth service, refined plating presentation, well-balanced flavours, and consistent portion control. Through his leadership, the restaurant aims to further strengthen its position as a premium modern Indian dining destination known for creativity, precision, and memorable guest experiences.

Before joining TIYA, Chef Bobby worked as Sous Chef at Madras Group Inc., located at 1177 W El Camino Real, Sunnyvale. There, he supported the Executive Chef in running high-performing kitchen operations. His role included supervising and training culinary teams, maintaining HACCP and ServSafe food safety standards, handling inventory and supplier coordination, and contributing to cost control and menu innovation. His involvement in recipe development and tasting menu execution played a key role in maintaining high dining standards.

Earlier in his career, Chef Bobby gained valuable experience as a Demi Chef de Partie at The Quorum, Two Horizon Center, Golf Course Road, and as a Commi at Hotel Crowne Plaza Mayur Vihar. He began his professional journey at Aamod Resorts, Kandaghat, District Solan, Himachal Pradesh, where he built a strong foundation in kitchen operations and hospitality discipline.

Speaking on his appointment, Chef Bobby said, “Joining TIYA, a Michelin Guide restaurant, as Sous Chef is an exciting milestone in my culinary journey. The brand’s vision of redefining modern Indian cuisine resonates deeply with my passion for innovation and excellence. I look forward to contributing to TIYA’s continued growth and delivering memorable dining experiences to our guests.”

With experience across well-known hospitality brands in both India and the United States, Chef Bobby’s appointment marks a meaningful step forward for TIYA as it continues to raise the bar for modern Indian fine dining in San Francisco.

Unwind in the Sacred Spirit of Ramadan at Novotel Cairo Airport

By Hariharan U

Published on February 24, 2026

As the holy month of Ramadan begins, Novotel Cairo Airport welcomes guests to experience the season in an atmosphere defined by serenity, reflection, and heartfelt hospitality. Designed for both Cairo residents seeking a peaceful retreat within the city and travellers exploring Egypt’s capital, the hotel offers a setting where the spirit of togetherness takes centre stage.

Ramadan at Novotel Cairo Airport focuses on creating meaningful moments. Guests can slow down, reconnect, and embrace the traditions of the holy month while enjoying a comfortable and relaxing stay. The property’s dining venues present thoughtfully curated Iftar and Sohour experiences, blending traditional Ramadan flavours with contemporary touches. Each meal is crafted to bring families, friends, couples, and colleagues together around the table in celebration.

For corporate guests, the hotel provides fully equipped banquet rooms and dedicated facilities suited for Iftars, Sohour gatherings, and Ramadan celebrations. The spaces are designed to encourage connection and appreciation, offering organisations a welcoming environment to host teams and partners during the blessed month.

A highlight of the season is the exclusive Ramadan dessert display, available throughout the day. Guests can indulge in a carefully selected assortment of oriental pastries, featuring both classic favourites and delicately crafted treats that reflect the flavours of Ramadan. Whether enjoyed on-site or taken home to share, the sweet offerings add a festive touch to the experience.

More than a destination to stay or dine, Novotel Cairo Airport positions itself as a place where Cairo’s Ramadan evenings come alive with warmth and community spirit. It is a space to unwind after a long day of fasting, reflect on the blessings of the season, and create lasting memories.

Part of the global Accor portfolio, Novotel operates over 590 hotels across more than 65 countries and participates in the ALL – Accor Live Limitless lifestyle loyalty programme, offering members access to rewards and exclusive experiences worldwide.

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Germany Positions Culture-Led, Sustainable and Experience-Driven Travel for Indian Tourists in 2025

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TOKYO SKYTREE Brings Cherry Blossom Season to New Heights with “THE Sakura SKYTREE”

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Chef Bobby Appointed Sous Chef at TIYA in San Francisco

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Unwind in the Sacred Spirit of Ramadan at Novotel Cairo Airport

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