Goa's MIA Joins Elite Ranks as Authorized E-Visa Checkpoint

Goa's MIA Joins Elite Ranks as Authorized E-Visa Checkpoint

By Author

Published on August 22, 2023

Goa, a land of vibrant diversity, welcomes travelers from around the world through its bustling Manohar International Airport (MIA). This gateway to the state’s beauty and charm has taken a step further by becoming an authorized immigration checkpoint for travelers with e-visas. As highlighted by a recent Money Control report, this move aims to provide a seamless and hassle-free journey for international tourists.

E-visas are issued to foreigners coming to India for leisure, business, medical purposes, or to visit friends and family. Specific international airports and seaports are designated for entry for e-visa holders. With the MIA now facilitating e-visa entry, international travelers can expect a smoother process upon arrival. The airport is also gearing up to welcome more international carriers in the near future.

Beyond the travel aspect, Goa Airport is a vibrant hub where families, honeymooners, solo adventurers, and business professionals converge, creating a dynamic blend of cultures and backgrounds.

The airport's inauguration by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on December 11, 2022, marked a significant milestone. Having launched domestic operations on January 5, 2023, it swiftly secured a place among India's top 20 airports within just three months, based on domestic traffic data from March 2023.

Goa: A Global Tourist Magnet

Renowned for its pristine beaches, rich culture, and historical significance, Goa has earned its place as a sought-after international tourist destination. The state's global appeal has significantly contributed to its economy, making it a prominent name in global travel. Particularly during peak tourist seasons, the state sees a consistent influx of international visitors.

The development of Mopa Airport revolves around sustainable infrastructure principles. The focus was on fostering sustainability, resulting in a facility characterized by green architecture, LED lighting, rainwater harvesting, and a solar power plant, among other features.

Complementing Dabolim Airport (GOI), Mopa Airport adds a valuable edge in managing the yearly surge in tourist traffic, enhancing Goa's role as a premier global destination.

In a significant announcement, the authorities of Manohar International Airport (MIA) at Mopa have declared it an official entry point for those holding E-Visas. This strategic move has come after recent discussions on extending E-Visa facilities to Mopa, ensuring a smoother travel experience for passengers.

Passengers with E-Visas can now look forward to a hassle-free immigration process after landing at Mopa Airport. This development further underscores MIA’s commitment to providing travelers with convenience and efficiency.


Uncover the Soul of Krabi with 5 Extraordinary Experiences in 2025

Uncover the Soul of Krabi with 5 Extraordinary Experiences in 2025

By Nishang Narayan

Published on July 3, 2025

As Thailand captures the world’s imagination—serving as the backdrop for the newest season of The White Lotus and the much-awaited Jurassic World Rebirth—there’s never been a better time to visit. Perched gracefully on Krabi’s stunning Andaman shoreline, Phulay Bay, a Ritz‑Carlton Reserve, gives travellers a chance to step into these cinematic stories, all while immersing in Thailand’s rich cultural and natural beauty.

Here are five unforgettable ways to experience Krabi’s soul in 2025:

Explore Krabi’s Untouched Wonders

Embark on Phulay Bay’s exclusive Discover the Jurassic Paradise adventure—a curated journey inspired by Krabi’s prehistoric charm and its starring role in the upcoming Jurassic World film. Start with a stroll on Pak Bia Island’s powdery sands, hemmed in by towering karst cliffs and turquoise seas. Then kayak across the still waters of Klong Root—also known as Mirror Lake—where lush canopies reflect so perfectly, it feels like paddling through a painting. From secret lagoons to wild forest trails, this is Krabi in its raw, magical form.

A Taste of Thailand: Cook Like a Local

Food is at the heart of Thai culture, and there’s no better way to connect than by learning to cook like a local. At Phulay Bay, join a small, hands-on Thai cooking class that starts with hand-picking fresh herbs and produce. Discover how to balance sweet, sour, and spicy notes, pick up time-honoured kitchen techniques, and prepare classic dishes. The best bit? You’ll feast on your creations in a serene nook of the resort—often at the Chomtawan Bar—paired with sunset views and a soft sea breeze.

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Reconnect with Yourself at The Spa

Begin your day with yoga by the sea, where gentle Andaman waves and rustling palms set the rhythm for breathwork and meditation. Then retreat to The Spa at Phulay Bay, an expansive haven with 11 treatment rooms, vitality pools, steam and sauna facilities. Indulge in rituals drawn from Thai and global wellness traditions—whether it’s a warm herbal compress, sound therapy with singing bowls, or a detox session with local botanicals. It’s restoration, reimagined.

Muay Thai: A Cultural Workout

Blend fitness and tradition with Phulay Bay’s Muay Thai sessions. Held in a calm indoor-outdoor studio, these workouts are led by seasoned trainers and tailored to all skill levels. You’ll learn the art of Thai boxing—mastering punches, kicks, and elbow strikes—while uncovering stories behind Thailand’s national sport. It’s as invigorating for the body as it is enlightening for the mind.

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Walk with Giants: The Elephant Sanctuary Experience

In partnership with the Krabi Elephant House Sanctuary, Phulay Bay offers a respectful, deeply moving way to meet Thailand’s gentle giants. Spend your morning alongside rescued elephants: feed them, give them playful mud baths, or join them for a dip. Guided by passionate sanctuary workers and the resort’s dedicated team, this immersive experience highlights conservation efforts and forges connections that last long after you leave.

Plan the Extraordinary

At Phulay Bay, every moment is artfully crafted—where personal butlers, bespoke experiences, and Krabi’s natural splendour come together in seamless harmony. Whether you’re chasing cinematic landscapes, culinary adventures, or soulful Thai traditions, this is where you embrace the extraordinary.

Plan your journey to Phulay Bay, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, and let Krabi’s spirit become part of yours.


Plan B Travel Jordan & Royal Jordanian Airlines Host Destination Webinar for Indian Travel Trade

Plan B Travel Jordan & Royal Jordanian Airlines Host Destination Webinar for Indian Travel Trade

By Nishang Narayan

Published on July 1, 2025

Plan B Travel Jordan and Royal Jordanian Airlines recently joined hands to host a destination-focused webinar aimed at the Indian travel trade. Titled Master the Wonders of Jordan, the session attracted notable Indian travel agents, underlining Jordan’s growing appeal as a luxury travel destination for Indian travellers.

The webinar offered a comprehensive look at Jordan’s diverse tourism highlights — from the archaeological marvels of Petra, the tranquil shores of the Dead Sea, to the dramatic landscapes of Wadi Rum. Designed to equip travel professionals with deeper insights and practical tools, the session aimed to boost confidence in promoting and selling Jordan as a unique travel experience.

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Participants also received exclusive updates from Royal Jordanian Airlines, which showcased their enhanced connectivity, service upgrades, and tailored trade benefits for the Indian market — making Jordan even more accessible and attractive for outbound travellers.

Sharing thoughts on the initiative, Rana Abu Alhala, CEO of Plan B Travel & Tourism, said, “We aim to strengthen partnerships within the Indian travel fraternity. With Jordan’s exclusive offerings of legacy, adventure, and well-being experiences, we see great potential for tourism growth. This webinar was aimed at strengthening product knowledge and empowering the trade to position Jordan notably.”

To add to the excitement, participants stood a chance to win exclusive prizes from Royal Jordanian Airlines along with thoughtfully curated tokens of appreciation from Plan B Travel Jordan — turning the educational experience into a rewarding one.

As Jordan emerges as a compelling destination for Indian travellers, initiatives like these ensure travel agents are well-equipped to inspire their clients with unforgettable journeys.


TV9 Network Appoints SKIL Travel as Official Partner for News9 Global Summit UAE

TV9 Network Appoints SKIL Travel as Official Partner for News9 Global Summit UAE

By Nishang Narayan

Published on June 28, 2025

TV9 Network has partnered with SKIL Corporate Travel, India’s leading corporate travel and event management firm, as the Official Travel Partner for the News9 Global Summit, UAE Edition. Organised by News9 and promoted by TV9 Network, this summit marked its second international edition, bringing together a distinguished group of Indian policymakers, entrepreneurs, diplomats, and global thought leaders to chart India’s growing global influence.

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As the Official Travel Partner, SKIL Corporate Travel seamlessly managed end-to-end logistics for all attending delegates and speakers — covering international and domestic flights, local transportation, and comprehensive on-ground support throughout the summit.

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Elevating its engagement beyond operational support, Mr. Shylender Jindal, Managing Director, SKIL Group, also featured as a distinguished speaker at the Summit. He contributed to the headline panel titled "Delhi to Dubai: Building the Startup Corridor," offering insights on the future of mobility, cross-border innovation, and India’s dynamic role in shaping global entrepreneurship ecosystems.

Vikash Kejriwal, CEO, SKIL Group, said,

"We are honoured to partner with TV9 for this international edition of the News9 Global Summit. As India steps into its role as a global business powerhouse, we are proud to support the journeys that move those ideas forward. Our experience in handling high-stakes, cross-border corporate travel makes this a natural and meaningful collaboration."

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With decades of experience in managing CXO delegations, enterprise mobility, and large-scale international conferences, SKIL Corporate Travel continues to stand out as a trusted name in premium corporate travel services, seamlessly blending efficiency with excellence across sectors and destinations.

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