Transforming Uttar Pradesh’s Hospitality and Tourism Landscape

Transforming Uttar Pradesh’s Hospitality and Tourism Landscape

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on April 22, 2024

Uttar Pradesh, India's cultural heartland, is poised for a monumental transformation in its hospitality and tourism sector. With a projected annual tourist footfall of 850 million by 2028, the state government is embarking on an ambitious journey to attract investments totaling INR 32,000 crore into this burgeoning industry.

Focusing on iconic destinations like Varanasi, Ayodhya, Prayagraj, and Agra, Uttar Pradesh aims to bolster its hospitality offerings significantly. The plan includes adding approximately 80,000 new accommodation units through the development of hotels, resorts, and homestays, catering to the diverse needs of travelers.

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One of the key strategies involves leveraging the state's rich heritage by offering historical properties such as forts and palaces to the private sector for development. Incentives are being provided to transform these gems into heritage hotels, enriching the tourism experience while preserving cultural legacy.

Moreover, Uttar Pradesh is championing rural tourism, emphasizing authentic farm stays that showcase local culture, cuisine, and folklore. An agreement with rural homestay providers underscores the government's commitment to grassroots tourism initiatives, fostering economic growth in rural areas.

Minister Jaiveer Singh highlighted the state's support for setting up unique countryside farm stays, offering subsidies under the Tourism Policy 2022. Selected villages are being transformed into rural tourism hubs, creating avenues for cultural exchange and economic empowerment.

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Furthermore, the state is diversifying its tourism portfolio to include wellness centers and adventure tourism activities. With over 500 tourism and infrastructure projects underway, Uttar Pradesh anticipates generating over 250,000 new job opportunities, providing a significant boost to employment.

Religious tourism, particularly in Ayodhya following the consecration of the Lord Ram temple, has gained significant momentum. The state government projects an annual tourism revenue of Rs 55,000 crore in the initial years, reflecting the immense potential of Uttar Pradesh as a premier destination for travelers.

As Uttar Pradesh charts a course towards becoming a hub of hospitality and tourism excellence, these initiatives underscore a commitment to sustainable growth and the preservation of cultural heritage, promising an enriching experience for visitors from around the globe.


Wyndham Hotels & Resorts Reports Q3 2025 Results

Wyndham Hotels & Resorts Reports Q3 2025 Results

By Hariharan U

Published on October 27, 2025

Wyndham Hotels & Resorts reported its Q3 2025 financial results, showing steady growth across operations and financial metrics. Global system-wide rooms increased 4% year-on-year to 855,400, including 503,400 in the U.S. and 352,000 internationally, while the company awarded 204 new development contracts, up 24% from Q3 2024. The global development pipeline grew 4% to 257,000 rooms, with roughly 70% in midscale and above segments and 58% internationally.

 Ancillary revenues rose 18% compared to the same period last year. Net income climbed 3% to $105 million, and adjusted net income reached $112 million, with diluted EPS increasing 5% to $1.36 and adjusted diluted EPS up 5% to $1.46. Adjusted EBITDA grew 2% to $213 million, while global RevPAR declined 5% in constant currency, mainly due to softer results in Asia Pacific and Latin America, partially offset by gains in EMEA and Canada.

Wyndham generated $86 million in net cash from operating activities and $97 million in free cash flow, ending the quarter with $70 million in cash and total liquidity of about $540 million, maintaining a net debt leverage ratio of 3.5x. In October 2025, the company refinanced its $750 million revolving credit facility, extending maturity to 2030, increasing capacity to $1 billion, and reducing borrowing costs by 35 basis points. Shareholder returns included the repurchase of 830,000 shares for $70 million in Q3 and year-to-date buybacks of 2.5 million shares for $223 million, alongside $31 million in dividends.

Looking ahead, Wyndham expects full-year global room growth of 4–4.6%, global RevPAR change of -3% to -2%, fee-related revenues of $1.43–$1.45 billion, adjusted EBITDA of $715–$725 million, adjusted net income of $347–$358 million, and adjusted diluted EPS of $4.48–$4.62, while maintaining a focus on portfolio expansion, strengthening its development pipeline, and delivering consistent shareholder value amid evolving industry conditions.


Alaska Air Reports Strong Q3 2025 Earnings, Expands Seattle Routes

Alaska Air Reports Strong Q3 2025 Earnings, Expands Seattle Routes

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on October 26, 2025

Alaska Air Group reported strong financial results for the third quarter of 2025, posting a GAAP net income of $73 million and adjusted earnings per share of $1.05. The airline’s growth is being fueled by new nonstop routes from Seattle to London and Reykjavik, set to launch in May 2026, and the introduction of the Atmos Rewards loyalty program, which exceeded premium credit card sign-up expectations.

In a major technological upgrade, Alaska Air is installing Starlink high-speed Wi-Fi across its fleet, offering complimentary access to Atmos Rewards members. The company is also progressing with the integration of Hawaiian Airlines and advancing its Alaska Accelerate strategy, aiming for significant growth and profitability by 2027.

Analysts have assigned a Hold rating on ALK stock with a $49.00 price target, citing strong financial recovery but noting bearish technical indicators and increased leverage as potential risks. The airline continues to focus on expanding its global reach and enhancing customer loyalty through strategic partnerships and its Atmos Rewards program.


Royal Caribbean Group raises dividend by 33% to $1 per share

Royal Caribbean Group raises dividend by 33% to $1 per share

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on September 14, 2025

Royal Caribbean Group (NYSE: RCL) has announced a significant increase in its shareholder returns, declaring a 33% hike in its quarterly dividend. The company’s Board of Directors approved a dividend of $1.00 per common share, payable on October 13, 2025, to shareholders of record at the close of business on September 25, 2025.

Jason Liberty, President and CEO of Royal Caribbean Group, said the move underscores the company’s confidence in its performance and long-term growth strategy. “Today’s dividend increase reflects both the strength of our performance and our commitment to return capital to shareholders. This increase in dividend, along with our ongoing share repurchase program, highlights our balanced approach to capital allocation, returning value to shareholders while funding future growth,” Liberty stated.

Royal Caribbean Group is a global leader in the vacation industry, operating a fleet of 68 ships across five brands that serve millions of guests annually. Its portfolio includes Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, and Silversea, as well as land-based experiences such as Perfect Day at CocoCay and the Royal Beach Club collection. The company also holds a 50% joint venture in TUI Cruises, which manages brands like Mein Schiff and Hapag-Lloyd Cruises.

With a reputation for innovation and guest-focused experiences, Royal Caribbean Group continues to expand its global footprint while maintaining its commitment to responsible and sustainable growth.

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