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By Author
Published on January 2, 2025
In a landmark move aimed at reshaping travel between India and Japan, IndiGo, India’s largest carrier, has joined forces with Japan Airlines (JAL) through a codeshare partnership. This collaboration promises to enhance travel experiences, expand connectivity, and boost economic and cultural exchanges between the two nations.
Under this codeshare agreement, Japan Airlines will leverage IndiGo's expansive domestic network, enabling Japanese travelers to access 18 prominent Indian destinations from major gateways like Delhi and Bengaluru. Key cities such as Mumbai, Chennai, and Hyderabad are now just one seamless booking away for passengers flying on JAL.
For Indian travelers, the partnership unlocks access to JAL’s robust global network, facilitating smoother connections to Japan and beyond. By bridging these networks, the two airlines aim to simplify itineraries and enrich the travel experience for passengers from both countries.
This agreement aligns with the growing demand for stronger India-Japan ties in business and tourism. With Japan emerging as a vital economic partner for India, this enhanced connectivity is poised to bolster bilateral trade and investment. Furthermore, easier travel routes will encourage tourism, allowing travelers to explore the rich cultural heritage of both nations.
The hospitality and travel industries in India stand to benefit significantly from this partnership. With Japan known for its strong outbound tourism market, hotels, restaurants, and tour operators across India can expect an influx of Japanese visitors. Similarly, Indian travelers exploring Japan will seek immersive experiences, creating opportunities for local businesses there.
The codeshare agreement ensures that passengers can book tickets for their entire journey through a single transaction. With IndiGo’s reputation for punctuality and efficiency combined with JAL’s world-class services, travelers are assured of comfort and reliability.
This partnership extends beyond air travel—it is a testament to the growing cooperation between India and Japan. By enabling smoother travel experiences, IndiGo and JAL contribute to fostering closer diplomatic, cultural, and economic ties.
With the first codeshare flights set to commence on December 16, 2024, the partnership’s impact will soon be felt across sectors. Hospitality stakeholders are encouraged to prepare for the influx of tourists by enhancing offerings tailored to Japanese preferences and vice versa.
As this collaboration takes flight, it marks a new era in India-Japan relations, redefining travel and setting the stage for deeper connections between the two vibrant nations.
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By Hariharan U
Published on November 29, 2025
This season comes with its own charm, and if you’re looking for places that truly feel festive, here’s a handpicked list of nine restaurants, cafés, and hotels that have gone all out to make Christmas warm, joyful, and experience-driven.
1. Late Checkout*Late Checkout* in Lower Parel takes on a beautiful holiday mood with soft lights, rich festive colours, and a cosy vibe that instantly feels welcoming. Set inside a restored textile warehouse, the space blends industrial-chic interiors with snug corners and a lively cocktail room. Whether it's a quiet festive date or a fun group night out, the easygoing atmosphere encourages guests to linger, sip winter cocktails, and enjoy the season comfortably. With its design-led aesthetic and warm Christmas spirit, it makes for a perfect holiday hangout.
2. JW Marriott Mumbai SaharJW Marriott Mumbai Sahar brings the festive season alive with elegant décor, warm lighting, and a cheerful Christmas atmosphere. JW Café rolls out indulgent festive brunches, while AUTM JW Lounge serves winter-inspired cocktails that match the mood of the season. The hotel’s hospitality, seasonal menus, and comforting ambience come together to create a setting that feels refined yet homely, making it one of the most charming Christmas destinations in the city.
3. Della Resorts & AdventureDella Resorts & Adventure introduces its Christmas Festive Package for 2025, designed for a relaxed, feel-good holiday. The two-night stay begins at ₹34,000 and focuses on small, thoughtful experiences—slow mornings, comforting breakfasts, and an Adventure Day Pass for playful fun. Guests also get access to The Vegas Noelat, the resort’s annual Christmas production, and festive drinks at Café 24. A hearty Christmas Brunch, a traditional pudding takeaway, and kid-friendly highlights like Santa Meet-and-Greet and gingerbread decorating add warmth to the holiday. It’s a great choice for anyone wanting a quiet but festive break away from the city rush.
4. Sofitel Mumbai BKCSofitel Mumbai BKC takes on a glowing, cosy holiday look with festive décor and cheerful accents. Guests can pick from a variety of Christmas dining experiences—brunch at Pondichery Cafe, Indian festive dinners at Jyran, or traditional thalis at Tuskers. Each menu is crafted with seasonal flavours that bring out the essence of the holidays. Add to that relaxing spa sessions and Sofitel’s signature hospitality, and you get an experience that feels warm, indulgent, and perfectly festive.
5. Harajuku Tokyo Cafe & BakehouseHarajuku Tokyo Café turns into a colourful Christmas wonderland with twinkling lights and bright installations that match its playful Japanese-inspired look. The Bakehouse showcases desserts that are almost too pretty to touch, and their exclusive Christmas cocktail menu adds to the holiday excitement. It’s the ideal spot for those who love aesthetic corners, festive photos, and sweet, comforting treats.
6. Amelia BKCAmelia BKC brings a bold holiday vibe with its dramatic interiors—deep reds, black accents, unique lighting, and statement décor. With warm Christmas lights and luxe festive touches blending seamlessly into the space, it becomes a striking backdrop for dinners, celebrations, and stylish December nights. If you're looking for a place that feels festive yet modern, Amelia stands out beautifully.
7. ToriiAt Torii in Khar, festive elegance takes centre stage. The restaurant’s rich textures, sculptural elements, and warm lighting get an added Christmas glow, making it perfect for intimate dinners or quiet festive gatherings. The décor remains refined and tasteful, giving the place a soft, holiday-ready charm throughout the month.
8. SthambaSthamba Brewery in Versova turns up the Christmas energy with bright decorations, playful lighting, and a buzzing ambience. Known for its upbeat crowd and industrial-cool interiors, the brewery adds a festive twist with a special Christmas menu and lively music. It’s a great pick for year-end outings, cheerful nights with friends, and celebrations that are full of warmth and fun.
9. MoussestruckMoussestruck embraces the season with cosy décor, a warm festive glow, and a delightful spread of strawberry specials and winter desserts. The space is aesthetic and inviting, perfect for anyone who enjoys sweet treats and holiday-themed cafés. Whether you’re visiting for the desserts or the festive vibe, Moussestruck makes for a lovely Christmas outing.
SOTC Travel, a leading omnichannel Travel and Tourism Company, has opened its first franchise outlet in Anand, Gujarat, expanding its retail presence to five locations across the State. Anand has emerged as an important travel source market with strong interest in world-class holidays, prompting SOTC to strengthen its footprint in the region.
Known for its growing economy, prominent educational institutions, and rising urban affluence, Anand offers strong potential for travel-related businesses. The new outlet is designed to serve both leisure and business travellers with a wide portfolio of offerings, including domestic and international group tours, personalised holidays, cruises, and value-added services like travel insurance, making holiday planning simpler and more convenient.
Top domestic and subcontinent destinations: Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Rajasthan, Andaman, Bhutan, Sri Lanka
Top international destinations: Europe, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Malaysia, Vietnam, Thailand, Bali, Japan, South Africa, Egypt
Emerging interests: luxury cruises, Northern Lights experiences, self-drive holidays, island stays (Maldives, Mauritius), and adventure trips to Ladakh and the North-East
Top customer groups: multi-generational families, honeymooners, working professionals, millennials, and Gen Z
Average holiday duration: 4–6 days for domestic or short-haul, 10–12 days for long-haul trips
SOTC Holiday World OutletNarayan Empire, No. 103–104, Beside Panchal Hall,Anand–Vidyanagar Road, Anand, Gujarat 38800
Speaking about the launch, Rakesh Bawa, Senior Vice President & Head – Holidays, SOTC Travel Limited, said, “Opening our first store in Anand is a strategic step in strengthening SOTC’s presence in Gujarat. Anand’s growing economy, strong educational base and rising affluence make it an important hub for travel demand. By expanding here, we are addressing the evolving needs of customers who want convenient, world-class holiday solutions. Gujarat is a key growth market for us, and Anand will play a significant role in driving our future expansion in the region. My team and I look forward to welcoming our customers at this new location and delighting them with exceptional travel offerings.”
About SOTC TRAVEL
SOTC Travel Limited, a step-down subsidiary of Fairfax Financial Holdings through Thomas Cook (India) Limited, is a leading omnichannel travel company operating across leisure, incentive and business travel. Established in 1949, SOTC has built a legacy of more than 75 years and has served millions of travellers across India and the world.
The brand has won multiple industry accolades, including the PATA Gold Awards 2025, MaxiiiMICE Awards 2025, SATTE Awards 2025, and recognitions at World Travel Awards 2024, E4M Maverick Awards 2024, and ET Travel & Tourism Awards.
For more information, visit the official website.
By Manu Vardhan Kannan
Published on November 23, 2025
Etihad Airways and Vietnam Airlines have taken their partnership forward with the launch of a new codeshare agreement. This move builds on Etihad’s recently introduced Abu Dhabi–Hanoi service, creating smoother travel options between the UAE and Vietnam.
With this partnership, Etihad guests can now book onward journeys to major domestic destinations in Vietnam as well as popular cities across Asia, all on a single ticket. Travellers also benefit from one check-in and automatic baggage transfer, making Abu Dhabi an easy connection point to the Middle East, Europe, and Africa.
Arik De, Chief Revenue and Commercial Officer, Etihad Airways, said: "This partnership with Vietnam Airlines delivers significant value to our guests by unlocking access to some of Asia's most dynamic and popular destinations. Our new Abu Dhabi-Hanoi service has been warmly received, and this codeshare agreement transforms it into a gateway to Vietnam's most exciting cities. Combined with our frequent flyer partnership, which enables loyalty members of both airlines to earn and redeem miles across our combined global networks, this collaboration underscores our commitment to providing our guests with greater flexibility, broader reach, and superior travel experiences."
From Vietnam Airlines’ perspective, this collaboration builds on the Memorandum of Understanding signed earlier. Nguyen Quang Trung, Director of Corporate Planning and Development, Vietnam Airlines, said: “Vietnam Airlines is pleased to advance our partnership with Etihad Airways through this new codeshare agreement, following the Memorandum of Understanding signed in 2024. The collaboration offers seamless access to Etihad’s network across the Middle East, Europe, and Africa, while allowing more travellers to experience Vietnam Airlines’ signature warmth and hospitality. Together with our expanded frequent-flyer partnership, this agreement enhances convenience, broadens destination choices, and strengthens tourism and economic ties between Vietnam and the UAE.”
The rollout of the codeshare will take place in phases. As it expands, passengers of Vietnam Airlines will gain access to six destinations beyond Abu Dhabi, Athens, Addis Ababa, Bahrain, Muscat, Cairo, and Istanbul, opening up a wider network across the Middle East, Europe, and Africa through Etihad’s strong connectivity.
Etihad and Vietnam Airlines already have a frequent flyer partnership in place. Launched in July 2025, it allows Etihad Guest and Lotus Miles members to earn and redeem miles across both airlines’ networks. This loyalty integration adds more value to the newly announced codeshare, giving travellers broader options and smoother travel experiences.
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