Meghalaya Secures USD 100 Million Loan for Tourism Projects

Meghalaya Secures USD 100 Million Loan for Tourism Projects

By Author

Published on July 16, 2023

The Meghalaya government has successfully secured a loan of Rs 731 crore (approximately USD 100 million) from the New Development Bank (NDB) to support tourism-related infrastructure projects. The funding will be used for various initiatives, including the construction of a ropeway from the city to Shillong Peak, the development of tourism and eco-tourism attractions, the upgrade of accommodation facilities in villages, the construction of strategic tourism-related roads, and capacity building and management at different institutions.

The NDB has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Government of India for the Meghalaya Ecotourism Infrastructure Development Project, with the NDB providing USD 79.1 million of the total loan amount. The remaining 10 per cent will be borne by the state government. This project is considered a significant milestone in enhancing the tourism landscape of Meghalaya and establishing the state as a premier destination for global travellers.

Tourism Minister Paul Lyngdoh expressed his enthusiasm for the agreement and highlighted the government's plan to create 1,000 "homestays" each year for the next five years. 

“This will not only help in generating employment in the tourism sector but also will help to create more tourism infrastructure in the state,” he informed.

With financial support from the NDB, Meghalaya is poised to boost its tourism industry and attract travellers from around the world.


Swim with Giants: Four Seasons Maldives Unveils 2025 Manta Hot Dates

Swim with Giants: Four Seasons Maldives Unveils 2025 Manta Hot Dates

By Nishang Narayan

Published on March 18, 2025

What do the moon and manta rays have in common? They both play a crucial role in one of the ocean’s most breathtaking natural spectacles—the mass gathering of manta rays in Baa Atoll’s UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

Thanks to the groundbreaking research of the Maldives Manta Conservation Programme, based at Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru, travelers now have a scientifically backed chance to witness these gentle giants in action. The team has combined two decades of manta tracking, moon phase analysis, and tidal movements to predict the Manta Hot Dates for 2025—the optimal times when these marine marvels are expected to congregate in vast numbers.

2025 Manta Hot Dates

  • May 10 – 14 | May 25 – 29
  • June 9 – 13 | June 23 – 27
  • July 8 – 12 | July 22 – 26
  • August 7 – 11 | August 21 – 25
  • September 5 – 9 | September 19 – 23
  • October 5 – 9 | October 19 – 23
  • November 3 – 7 | November 18

A Front-Row Seat to the Ocean’s Grand Performance

With over 4,477 manta sightings recorded in 2024—alongside 26 whale sharks and nine devil rays—the waters around Landaa Giraavaru offer an unparalleled marine adventure. Guests visiting during the Manta Hot Dates can join the exclusive Manta Watch experience, which includes:

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Manta-on-Call speedboat safari – Get alerted via a personal phone the moment mantas are sighted nearby.
Dolphin cruise – Witness playful dolphins leaping across the Indian Ocean.
Coral frame propagation – Contribute to marine conservation by helping restore coral reefs.
Round-trip shared seaplane transfers from Velana International Airport.
Daily breakfast at Café Landaa or Blu Restaurant.

For those who prefer spontaneity, the resort’s Manta-on-Call program offers a real-time adventure—guests receive a direct call the moment manta rays are spotted, allowing them to rush to a speedboat and snorkel with these oceanic giants on their terms.

More Than a Spectacle—A Conservation Mission

Since its inception in 2005, the Maldives Manta Conservation Programme has played a vital role in protecting manta rays worldwide. Project Manager Elspeth Strike explains,

“Seeing a guest’s face light up as they spot a manta for the first time is unforgettable. At Landaa Giraavaru, we combine conservation with education—offering managed experiences that allow people to connect with these incredible creatures while helping ensure their future.”

Manta sightings are seasonal and subject to weather conditions and the moods of these gentle giants.

To book your Manta Watch adventure at Four Seasons Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru, click here, email reservations.mal@fourseasons.com, or call +960 66 00 888.


Business Travel Show Asia Pacific to Launch in Singapore This April

Business Travel Show Asia Pacific to Launch in Singapore This April

By Nishang Narayan

Published on March 16, 2025

The Business Travel Show Asia Pacific is set to make its debut in Singapore on April 16-17, 2025, at Marina Bay Sands, uniting over 200 corporate travel buyers from across Asia Pacific, the US, the UK, and Europe with 50+ top-tier exhibitors from the global travel industry. Backed by BTN Group’s 30 years of expertise in corporate travel events, this launch marks a significant milestone for the region’s booming business travel sector.

A World-Class Corporate Travel Event

The Asia Pacific region is the world’s fastest-growing corporate travel market, with spending projected to hit $900 billion this year. Business Travel Show APAC is more than just a trade show—it’s a critical platform for industry professionals to connect, collaborate, and stay ahead in an evolving landscape.

Exhibitors include some of the most influential names in the travel industry, such as Oneworld, Wings, Wego, Amex GBT, BCD, Amex Card, Emburse, and more. The event promises meaningful business meetings, knowledge-sharing sessions, and exclusive networking opportunities for buyers and suppliers alike.

Exclusive Hosted Buyer Programme

Senior corporate travel decision-makers can apply for the hosted buyer programme, which includes:

  • Complimentary travel and accommodation
  • Curated one-on-one meetings with key suppliers
  • VIP access to event sessions and networking lounges

Corporate travel managers and procurement professionals handling business travel programmes are encouraged to register early to secure their spot.

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Expert Panels & Cutting-Edge Industry Insights

Spanning two days, the event features 16 free-to-attend sessions covering:

  • Sustainability in corporate travel
  • Enhancing traveller experience
  • Innovative travel technology
  • Supplier sourcing strategies
  • Cost-cutting and resilience in travel programmes

Speakers from Avis Budget Group, MSD International, IKEA, Rheinmetall, Crisis24, HN Consulting, and Align Tech will share their expertise.

Business Travel Innovation Faceoff & APAC Travel Buyer of the Year Award

For the first time in APAC, the Business Travel Innovation Faceoff will showcase game-changing solutions set to redefine corporate travel. Additionally, the APAC Travel Buyer of the Year Award will honor a regional leader in corporate travel innovation.


CGH Earth Saha Unveils Coorg Wild Walk – A Wilderness Retreat at Nagarhole

CGH Earth Saha Unveils Coorg Wild Walk – A Wilderness Retreat at Nagarhole

By Author

Published on March 10, 2025

CGH Earth Saha has launched its ninth villa, Coorg Wild Walk, adjacent to Nagarhole National Park in Karnataka. Nestled within a lush coffee estate near Kutta’s Nanachi Gate, this secluded four-bedroom villa offers travelers an intimate and immersive experience in one of India’s most pristine wildlife reserves, home to tigers, leopards, elephants, and a thriving bird population.

Designed as a peaceful retreat, the villa blends seamlessly with its natural surroundings. Expansive picture windows frame uninterrupted views of the coffee plantation and forest, while the semi-open lounge and dining areas allow guests to stay connected to nature. Infused with Kodava craftsmanship, the interiors add a touch of local charm to the space. Guests can book individual rooms or reserve the entire villa for a private escape.

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The experience at Coorg Wild Walk extends beyond the villa. Guided nature walks, birdwatching excursions, and safaris in Nagarhole offer thrilling encounters with wildlife. The on-site culinary offerings celebrate the flavors of Kodagu and Karnataka, with locally sourced ingredients shaping an authentic dining experience.

"We are thrilled to welcome guests to Coorg Wild Walk. Nestled within a coffee plantation and just minutes from the Nanachi Gate of Nagarhole National Park, this retreat offers an unmatched connection with nature. Whether it's waking up to bird calls, sipping estate-grown coffee on the verandah, or embarking on curated wildlife experiences, the thrill of the forest is ever-present," said George Joseph, Vice President, Operations – CGH Earth.

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With a strong focus on sustainability and cultural authenticity, CGH Earth Saha continues its legacy of crafting meaningful travel experiences. Coorg Wild Walk promises a unique blend of adventure and serenity, making it an ideal getaway for wildlife lovers and nature enthusiasts.

More details at CGH Earth Saha

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