Ho Chi Minh City River Festival 2024: A Grand Celebration of Cultural Heritage

Ho Chi Minh City River Festival 2024: A Grand Celebration of Cultural Heritage

By Nishang Narayan

Published on June 5, 2024

Ho Chi Minh City is gearing up to host the second edition of its River Festival from May 31 to June 9, 2024. Known for its vibrant lifestyle and rich cultural tapestry, the city is set to dazzle visitors with an even grander festival this year, promising a series of engaging activities across multiple locations.

Expanding in Scale and Quality

The 2024 Ho Chi Minh City River Festival aims to honour the city's cultural heritage and its picturesque rivers and canals. This year, the festival is expanding its scale to ten continuous days and will strengthen its connections with the Mekong Delta and Southeast provinces. Attendees can look forward to a range of activities including spectacular fireworks, vibrant river parades, and performances.

Diverse Activities for Everyone

The festival will host a variety of events such as recreating the Western floating market, a fruit week, open river swimming competitions, stand-up paddleboarding championships, and jet ski performances. Additionally, artistic light decorations will illuminate the city, creating a mesmerising ambiance.

Promotions and Discounts

Over 100 businesses will participate, offering promotional discounts ranging from 10% to 60% on shopping, dining, and sightseeing services, adding an extra incentive for visitors and locals to engage fully with the festival.

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Cultural and Historical Celebrations

The highlight of the event will be the opening art program "The Legendary Voyage" at the Nha Rong Wharf - Saigon Port. Scheduled for 8 PM on May 31, 2024, this musical drama will feature over 1,000 performers and is expected to draw a crowd of 9,000. The production will recount the epic journey of the great leader Ho Chi Minh, using advanced technologies like 3D mapping and drone shows to enhance the narrative.

Ho Chi Minh City's River Festival is not just an event; it's a cultural spectacle that invites visitors to immerse themselves in the rich history and vibrant spirit of this dynamic city. Join us this summer to explore the unique blend of tradition and modernity at one of Vietnam's most anticipated festivals.


PM Modi Avoids Pakistan Airspace: A Wake-Up Call for India’s Travel and Hospitality Sector

PM Modi Avoids Pakistan Airspace: A Wake-Up Call for India’s Travel and Hospitality Sector

By Author

Published on April 23, 2025

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.

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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.

Images used in this article are sourced from publicly available content on Google and are not the property of Hospitalitynews. All rights remain with the original creators.


Sustainable Cooling at Niraamaya Kumarakom: Where Nature Keeps You Cool

Sustainable Cooling at Niraamaya Kumarakom: Where Nature Keeps You Cool

By Nishang Narayan

Published on April 17, 2025

As the mercury climbs this summer, luxury travel is finding refreshing new ways to stay cool—without leaving a heavy footprint. At Niraamaya Retreats Backwaters & Beyond – Kumarakom, sustainability and comfort go hand in hand, offering guests a naturally cooler, deeply immersive experience by the backwaters of Kerala.

Set beside the tranquil Vembanad Lake, this eco-retreat exemplifies how thoughtful design and traditional wisdom can keep things breezy even in peak heat.

A Design That Breathes

Drawing inspiration from Kerala’s heritage, the villas at Niraamaya feature sloped clay-tiled roofs, open courtyards, and lofty ceilings that allow natural air flow. The result? Cooling that feels effortless—and rarely needs mechanical backup.

Cool Landscapes, Cooler Minds

The property’s lush greenery—towering palms, lotus ponds, and winding water channels—creates a calming microclimate. Guests often feel the temperature drop as soon as they step into the shaded gardens, where nature acts as the ultimate air conditioner.

Smart Energy, Subtle Luxury

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Where artificial cooling is used, the resort turns to high-efficiency systems with motion sensors and inverter tech, cutting down energy waste while keeping comfort levels just right. Rooms adapt to occupancy, offering a seamless blend of luxury and logic.

Materials That Matter

Built using local terracotta, sustainable timber, and laterite stone, the structures don’t just look earthy—they feel it. These breathable materials offer thermal insulation, paying homage to local craftsmanship while reducing heat buildup.

A Gentle Pace of Living

From early morning yoga by the lake to spa treatments rooted in Ayurveda, Niraamaya encourages guests to move with nature’s rhythm. Mealtimes feature seasonal, cooling dishes enjoyed under breezy cabanas—adding wellness to every bite.

Sustainability, Rooted in Soul

At its core, Niraamaya Kumarakom is about more than just green practices. With solar energy, waste reduction efforts, and nature-led experiences, it offers a model where every stay nurtures both guests and the environment.

This summer, the resort extends an invitation to slow down, cool off, and reconnect—with self, nature, and a new way of living luxuriously.

At Niraamaya Kumarakom, cooling is no longer just a service—it’s a philosophy.


Tamarind Global Expands to UK & Scandinavia Through Canopy Sales & Marketing

Tamarind Global Expands to UK & Scandinavia Through Canopy Sales & Marketing

By Nishang Narayan

Published on April 17, 2025

Tamarind Global, one of India’s leading Destination Management Companies, has announced its partnership with Canopy Sales & Marketing as its official representative for the UK and Scandinavian markets. The collaboration marks a significant step in Tamarind’s ongoing global expansion strategy.

With a team of over 400 professionals and operational strength across India’s key cities—including Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru, Chennai, Kochi, Jaipur, and Kolkata—Tamarind Global offers a wide array of travel and event services. From tailor-made individual tours and group travel to high-end incentive programs and corporate events, the company has built its reputation on curated experiences, local expertise, and personalised service.

The partnership with Canopy Sales & Marketing is designed to enhance Tamarind’s presence in the European market, tapping into Canopy’s deep-rooted relationships and understanding of the UK and Scandinavian travel sectors. This will allow Tamarind to better reach leisure travelers and corporate clients looking for immersive and well-executed travel experiences in India.

“At Tamarind, we are excited to expand our signature services to cater to the global travellers’ requirement through curated journeys,” said Louis D'Souza, Managing Partner, Tamarind Global. “With the UK and Scandinavia being essential growth markets for us, we are excited to join hands with Canopy Sales & Marketing. Their on-ground presence and deep trade know-how make them the perfect partners to represent Tamarind Global.”

Echoing the sentiment, Adrian Croft, Managing Director, Canopy Sales & Marketing, said, “We are honoured to be chosen as Tamarind Global's UK and Scandinavian representative. We are excited to promote their range of offerings and help connect travel advisors and event planners with an expert partner in India.”

With this strategic alliance, Tamarind Global continues its journey to bring the richness of Indian travel experiences to a wider international audience.

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