IGLTA LGBTQ+ Travel Symposium Highlights India’s Growth

IGLTA Foundation LGBTQ+ Travel Symposium 2025 Showcases India’s Inclusive Tourism Potential

By Nishang Narayan

Published on March 2, 2025

The IGLTA Foundation LGBTQ+ Travel Symposium 2025, hosted at The LaLiT New Delhi, successfully brought together thought leaders, hospitality professionals, and LGBTQ+ advocates to explore the vast potential of inclusive tourism in India. The symposium emphasized the economic and social impact of LGBTQ+ travel, aligning with global trends that project the sector’s value to reach USD 552 billion by 2031, growing at an annual rate of 7%.

With India home to 20% of the world’s Gen Z population and an increasing number of LGBTQ+ affirmative individuals, the country presents significant opportunities for inclusive travel. The symposium served as a collaborative platform for industry experts to discuss these opportunities and share strategies to foster a more welcoming and economically viable travel sector.

Key sessions covered international policies, safety measures, and best practices for LGBTQ+ travelers, while also highlighting the untapped potential of marketing for the queer community.

Speaking at the event, LoAnn Halden, Vice President of Communications, IGLTA, emphasized:
"The LGBTQ+ community in India is in a position to revamp and transform the travel and hospitality industry. With this symposium, we aim to tap into a market that is very much willing and ready to engage."

Swati Jain, Founder of Katha Studio, shared insights on authentic engagement, stating:

"Creating marketing campaigns that resonate with the LGBTQ+ community and reinforcing the messaging of safe spaces can encourage travelers to explore freely. Sometimes, even putting up a rainbow flag can be a radical statement of inclusion—provided it is backed by affirmative actions."

As India strengthens its presence in the global travel market, the discussions at the IGLTA Foundation LGBTQ+ Travel Symposium 2025 pave the way for tangible change, authentic engagement, and a more inclusive industry that recognizes and celebrates diversity in travel.

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

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

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.

Summer Travel Heats Up with Surge in Pilgrimage Routes: YoloBus Sees Rising Demand

By Nishang Narayan

Published on April 10, 2025

As summer temperatures climb, Indian travelers are hitting the roads in search of adventure, scenic escapes, and spiritual solace—and YoloBus is seeing the impact firsthand. The premium intercity bus service has recorded a sharp increase in bookings across pilgrimage routes and tourist hotspots, prompting it to expand its network to meet the growing demand.

While hill stations like Manali, Shimla, and Nainital remain perennial summer favorites, and coastal gems like Goa, Gokarna, Puri, and Cochin continue to draw beach lovers, it’s the pilgrimage sector that’s showing notable growth. Destinations such as Tirupati, Shirdi, Katra, and Varanasi are seeing a significant rise in footfall this season.

Other emerging high-demand routes include Amritsar, Tenkasi, and Cochin, along with consistent traffic on circuits like Delhi–Manali, Dehradun, and Lucknow–Manali.

Manali remains a go-to for its cool climate and adventure sports, while Rishikesh attracts spiritual and thrill-seeking travelers alike. Nainital’s scenic charm and Tenkasi’s blend of waterfalls and temples are also proving popular. Meanwhile, Tirupati and Varanasi continue to be top choices for those seeking spiritual fulfillment.

“Summer is one of the most exciting times for travel, as people look for adventure, relaxation, and meaningful experiences,” said Sanjay Jadoun, CEO of YoloBus.
“We’re committed to making their journeys seamless with expanded routes, upgraded comfort, and exclusive offers. The shift in traveler preferences—towards nature and spirituality—is clear, and we’re ready to serve every kind of traveler.”

To enhance the experience, YoloBus has rolled out several customer-first initiatives:

Passenger insurance for peace of mind
Advanced IoT safety devices in every bus
Air-conditioned cabins and premium sleeper buses for long hauls
Travel packages, onboard essentials, and round-the-clock support
Onboard entertainment and refreshments for a more enjoyable ride

And to make travel more budget-friendly, YoloBus is offering up to INR 200 off using the coupon code SUMMER25. With peak travel season kicking off mid-April, early birds are encouraged to book in advance.

About YoloBus

YoloBus is a leading intercity travel service offering safe, comfortable, and premium travel across India. With over 1 million travelers served across 400+ routes, YoloBus combines state-of-the-art amenities, punctuality, and high customer satisfaction to deliver an exceptional travel experience.

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IGLTA Foundation LGBTQ+ Travel Symposium 2025 Showcases India’s Inclusive Tourism Potential

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Sustainable Cooling at Niraamaya Kumarakom: Where Nature Keeps You Cool

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Summer Travel Heats Up with Surge in Pilgrimage Routes: YoloBus Sees Rising Demand

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