Tamil Nadu Shines at WTM London 2024: Showcasing Culture, Nature, and Tourism Excellence

Tamil Nadu Shines at WTM London 2024: Showcasing Culture, Nature, and Tourism Excellence

By Nishang Narayan

Published on November 10, 2024

Tamil Nadu, the southernmost state of India, stole the spotlight at the World Travel Market (WTM) London 2024, presenting its rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and innovative tourism initiatives. Recognized globally for its history, architecture, and vibrant traditions, Tamil Nadu captivated industry leaders and travel enthusiasts alike.

A Grand Showcase of Tamil Nadu Tourism

At the dedicated Tamil Nadu Tourism pavilion, attendees were introduced to the state’s diverse offerings, from heritage tourism and eco-tourism to adventure travel and cultural experiences. Inaugurated by H.E. Mr. Vikram K. Doraiswami, IFS, High Commissioner of India to the UK, the pavilion served as a hub for fostering connections and driving investments. B2B meetings facilitated partnerships with tour operators, travel agents, and hoteliers, strengthening Tamil Nadu’s global appeal as a premier travel destination.

The Tamil Nadu delegation was led by Dr. Chandra Mohan B, I.A.S., Principal Secretary for Tourism, Culture, and Religious Endowments, and Thiru C. Samayamoorthy, I.A.S., Commissioner of Tourism and Managing Director of Tamil Nadu Tourism Development Corporation, along with other officials.

Celebrating Culture and Nature

Tamil Nadu boasts an impressive lineup of cultural and natural attractions:

  • Iconic Temples: Renowned for their intricate architecture and millennia-old heritage.
  • Festivals: The Indian Dance Festival, Margazhi Utsav, and Karthigai Deepam showcase Tamil Nadu’s artistic vibrancy.
  • Natural Wonders: Biosphere reserves, hill stations like Yercaud and Kolli Hills, and pristine coastlines offer unmatched adventure and serenity.

Upcoming events such as the Tamil Nadu Travel Mart in February and the Tamil Nadu International Balloon Festival in January promise to further enhance the state's tourism calendar, drawing global visitors to its shores.

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Tourism Innovations for 2025

Tamil Nadu's forward-thinking tourism strategy includes:

  • Adventure Tourism: Water sports along the 1,076 km coastline and trekking trails in lush hill stations.
  • Niche Experiences: Cruise tourism, photo walks, and glamping opportunities.
  • Modern Infrastructure: A new 16-acre Jallikattu arena in Madurai, blending ancient traditions with contemporary facilities.

Commitment to Sustainability

Aligning with global trends, Tamil Nadu Tourism emphasized its commitment to environmentally and culturally sustainable practices, ensuring that tourism growth benefits local communities while preserving the region’s natural and cultural treasures.

A Destination for Every Traveller

Whether it's exploring the majestic Thiruvalluvar Statue in Kanniyakumari, diving into traditional Tamil festivals, or embarking on eco-adventures in lush landscapes, Tamil Nadu offers a rich tapestry of experiences for all. With 58 GI-tagged products, including handcrafted sarees, jewellery, and pottery, the state provides an authentic cultural immersion like no other.

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Positioning Tamil Nadu on the Global Map

By showcasing its diverse tourism portfolio at WTM London 2024, Tamil Nadu solidified its position as a world-class destination. With a harmonious blend of ancient traditions and modern advancements, the state invites global travellers to discover its unparalleled beauty and heritage.

For more details, visit Tamil Nadu Tourism's official website.


Bollywood Meets the High Seas: Yacht Week Opens Its Iconic Adriatic Experience to Indian Travellers

Bollywood Meets the High Seas: Yacht Week Opens Its Iconic Adriatic Experience to Indian Travellers

By Hariharan U

Published on December 25, 2025

Following the release of the visually striking trailer of the Bollywood entertainer Tu Meri Main Tera, curiosity around its breathtaking coastal backdrops has surged among Indian audiences. From turquoise waters to sun-drenched decks and high-energy yacht parties, the film’s sailing sequences have quickly become talking points online.

Yacht Week has now confirmed that these iconic scenes are not cinematic fantasy. The sailing lifestyle, vibrant social moments, and the much-talked-about circle raft parties featured in the trailer are part of its real-world experience and Indian travellers are officially invited to join.

Shot along Croatia’s stunning Adriatic coastline, the film showcases destinations such as Hvar, Vis, and Brač. These islands form the core of Yacht Week’s legendary Original Route, a carefully curated sailing journey that has long been popular with travellers from around the world.

For Indian audiences, this marks a chance to step beyond the screen and experience the lifestyle themselves. Yacht Week combines island-hopping, sailing, and immersive social experiences that closely echo the companionship, romance, and freedom portrayed in Tu Meri Main Tera.

The week-long journey mirrors the spirit of the film, taking guests along the same Adriatic waters, stopping at historic coastal towns and hidden bays. Days are spent soaking up the sun on deck, swimming in clear blue waters, and enjoying relaxed seaside meals. Evenings transform into open-air celebrations, culminating in the iconic Circle Raft, a signature Yacht Week moment where yachts connect in the middle of the sea to create a floating celebration, just as seen in the trailer.

Despite its global reputation, Yacht Week is positioning the experience as accessible for Indian millennials, couples, and groups of friends. Flexible instalment plans are also available, allowing guests to secure their spot with an initial deposit.

Commenting on the growing interest, Sahil Wahid, Director, Revel Travel — Official Travel Partner for India, said,

“We were thrilled to see Bollywood bring the energy of Yacht Week to the big screen with Tu Meri Main Tera. The trailer perfectly captures the spirit of friendship and freedom that defines our global community. We know Indian travelers have a deep love for travel and cinema, and we are ready to welcome them to live the journey they've fallen in love with on screen — real yachts, real people, and the real Adriatic summer.”

Bookings are now open for the upcoming summer season, offering Indian travellers the opportunity to experience the exact route, lifestyle, and energy that made the film’s sailing scenes go viral.

For more details, visit: www.theyachtweek.com


Ring in 2026 with Grand Celebrations at ZANA Luxury Resorts & Country Inn Hotels

Ring in 2026 with Grand Celebrations at ZANA Luxury Resorts & Country Inn Hotels

By Hariharan U

Published on December 19, 2025

As the countdown to 2026 begins, ZANA Luxury Resorts and Country Inn Hotels & Resorts invite travellers to celebrate the New Year in style with thoughtfully curated packages across some of India’s most picturesque destinations. From lakeside luxury and hill retreats to wildlife escapes, these celebrations promise a perfect blend of fun, relaxation, and indulgence.

ZANA Luxury Resorts – Jim Corbett: Guests at ZANA Luxury Suites & Cottages and ZANA In The Wild can enjoy an energetic New Year under the stars with DJ entertainment, fireworks, lucky draws, and a live performance by acclaimed percussionist Nishant Gugnani. A dedicated kids’ zone and special buffet ensure fun for all ages.

ZANA Lake Resort, Udaipur: Celebrate amid the shimmering lakes of Udaipur with a serene yet festive lakeside gala dinner. Guests can enjoy gourmet breakfasts, leisurely hi-teas, and even bring their own alcohol for a personalised experience.

ZANA By The Ganges, Rishikesh: This newest luxury address offers a soulful start to 2026 with a lively gala dinner, live singing, and tranquil views of the Ganges and Himalayas—perfect for those seeking festive celebrations with a touch of serenity.

ZANA Forest Resort, Ranthambore: Spread across 11 acres, the resort blends luxury cottages, green spaces, and a festive gala dinner, making it ideal for families and nature enthusiasts looking for a peaceful yet memorable New Year.

Country Inn Nature Resort, Bhimtal: Surrounded by hills and crisp mountain air, guests can enjoy a DJ, fireworks, Kumaoni folk dance, live singing, bonfire, and a lavish gala dinner, providing a joyous and family-friendly way to welcome 2026.

Country Inn Premier, Mussoorie: Step into the New Year with panoramic hill station views, warm hospitality, a lively DJ, and gala dinner, creating a relaxed yet festive celebration in Mussoorie.

Country Inn Riverside Resort, Jim Corbett: Adjacent to ZANA In The Wild, this property offers a nature-centric celebration with fireworks, bonfire, DJ entertainment, lucky draws, and live percussion performances, ensuring a memorable New Year getaway.

Across all locations, guests can enjoy live music, curated gastronomic experiences, and immersive entertainment designed to create unforgettable memories. With these New Year packages, ZANA Luxury Resorts and Country Inn Hotels offer the perfect blend of celebration, comfort, and scenic beauty.


PRISM Offers Full Refunds for Guests Affected by Flight Disruptions

PRISM Offers Full Refunds for Guests Affected by Flight Disruptions

By Hariharan U

Published on December 10, 2025

PRISM, the parent company of OYO, has announced a full refund policy for guests who could not check into their hotels between December 5 and 15, 2025 due to the widespread flight disruptions across India. With more than 1,400 flights cancelled over the weekend and multiple delays crossing four hours, thousands of travel plans were affected at the peak of the wedding and holiday season.

Under this policy, guests who booked through the OYO or CheckIn apps will receive automatic refunds once they submit valid proof of cancellation or delay. PRISM is also coordinating closely with its hotel partners to ensure the process is smooth and does not burden small and mid-sized properties that depend heavily on seasonal business.

Sharing more details, Varun Jain, Chief Operating Officer, PRISM Asia, said, “Our early estimates indicate that significant bookings across our hotel network may be affected by the ongoing flight disruptions. Coinciding with the peak wedding and holiday season, both leisure and business travel plans are being impacted. Our decision to offer full refunds is guided by empathy and a sense of responsibility to ensure our guests are not financially burdened by circumstances entirely beyond their control.”

PRISM today operates 13,000+ hotels under brands such as Townhouse, Sunday and Palette across India. To support the increased volume of queries, the group has also expanded its customer service team to help guests with refund requests and clarity on documentation. The company will continue to monitor the situation and extend the refund window if required.

Guests can access detailed policy information or raise requests through the CheckIn policy page or contact the dedicated support helpline.

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