Tourism Minister Highlights Israel’s Safety and Diversity During India Visit

Tourism Minister Highlights Israel’s Safety and Diversity During India Visit

By Nishang Narayan

Published on February 6, 2025

Israel’s Minister of Tourism, Haim Katz, wrapped up a pivotal visit to India aimed at strengthening bilateral tourism ties and engaging with key industry players. The visit featured multi-city networking events, high-profile meetings, and Israel’s strong presence at OTM 2025, reinforcing Israel’s commitment to boosting tourism from India.

Strengthening Tourism & Air Connectivity

During his visit, Minister Katz met with India’s Minister of Tourism, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, to discuss enhancing cooperation between the two nations. They explored ways to leverage the deep historical and cultural connections shared by India and Israel.

The Israel Ministry of Tourism (IMOT) delegation, including Ambassador Peleg Lewi, Foreign Affairs Advisor, and Hassan Madah, International Marketing Director, IMOT, also met with Air India CEO Campbell Wilson. The discussions focused on improving air connectivity and creating seamless travel opportunities for Indian tourists heading to Israel.

Israel at OTM 2025: A Grand Showcase

Israel made a strong impression at OTM 2025, one of India’s largest travel trade exhibitions, held at Jio World Convention Centre, Mumbai. Minister Katz inaugurated the event, addressing a distinguished audience of travel professionals, tourism stakeholders, and media representatives.

image

Speaking at the event, Minister Katz emphasized,
"India is a critical market for us, and we are committed to deepening our engagement with the Indian travel trade. With the launch of the e-Visa system and our continued presence at key exhibitions, we are confident of achieving new milestones in 2025."

Israel’s pavilion at OTM stood out, winning the Best Booth Decoration Award for its visually engaging and interactive showcase of the destination.

Exclusive Networking Events in Delhi & Mumbai

IMOT hosted exclusive networking evenings in Delhi and Mumbai, bringing together travel associations, industry leaders, and OTAs. These events facilitated discussions on collaborative strategies to position Israel as a preferred destination for Indian travelers.

image

"We witnessed a surge in the number of Indian travelers visiting Israel in 2024, which presents the right moment for us to promote the destination. We want to ensure that Israel is safe and welcoming to tourists. We urge Indian travelers to experience our country in a more holistic way," Minister Katz stated.

Tourism Growth & Air Connectivity Resumption

Despite geopolitical challenges, India remained a strong source market for Israel in 2024, with 9,600 Indian tourists visiting between January and December.

With the recent ceasefire announcement and Air India resuming flights to Israel from March 2025, tourist arrivals are expected to rise significantly. In total, Israel welcomed 961,700 global tourists in 2024.

e-Visa Launch for Indian Travelers

To make travel easier, Israel has launched a new e-Visa system for Indian tourists, particularly families and multi-generational travelers. This digital service simplifies the application process and integrates with Israel’s Entry Travel Authorization (ETA) system.

image

Indian travelers can apply through the official portal:

www.gov.il/en/departments/topics/eta-il/govil-landing-page

More information on e-visas: israel-entry.piba.gov.il

While group visa applications will continue via existing channels, the pilot phase is exclusively for Indian citizens, with plans for global expansion.

A Bright Future for India-Israel Tourism

Minister Katz’s visit reinforced Israel’s long-term vision for the Indian market. IMOT’s roadmap for 2025 includes:

✅ Trade & media outreach

✅ Participation in major trade shows

✅ Experiential events across India

✅ Promotions in tier-II cities

✅ Showcasing Israel as a year-round destination

With enhanced connectivity, a simplified visa process, and strategic marketing initiatives, India-Israel tourism is set to reach new heights in 2025.


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.

image

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

image

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.

Stay up-to-date with the latest Hospitality news and trends in the Hospitality industry!

Subscribe to Hospitality news e-magazine for free and never miss an issue.

By clicking subscribe for free you agree to the Terms & Conditions and acknowledge our Privacy Policy.

Advertise With Us

We have various options to advertise with us including Events, Advertorials, Banners, Mailers, etc.