Travel Trends 2025: Hospitality Leaders Share the Future of Guest Experiences

Travel Trends 2025: Hospitality Leaders Share the Future of Guest Experiences

By Nishang Narayan

Published on December 31, 2024

As Indian travellers prepare for 2025, the hospitality industry is brimming with innovative trends set to redefine travel experiences. From immersive adventures to sustainable tourism and multi-generational journeys, leading general managers offer insights into what’s shaping the future of hospitality.

Immersive Experiences Take Centre Stage

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The modern Indian traveller is shifting focus towards immersive, one-of-a-kind experiences. Maurice Lucien Van Den Bosch, General Manager of RAAYA by Atmosphere, highlights this trend:
"Indian outbound tourists are now drawn to secluded private islands, curated culinary adventures, and wellness retreats. At RAAYA, we embrace this shift with bespoke luxury offerings that reflect our ‘Joy of Giving’ philosophy, redefining the Maldivian hospitality experience."

Rise of Multi-Generational Travel

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The deep-rooted family connections of Indian travellers are inspiring the rise of multi-generational tourism. Christopher Baker, General Manager of OBLU XPERIENCE Ailafushi, explains:
"Families are seeking unique experiences that cater to all generations, from adventures for children to serene retreats for seniors. At OBLU, we blend tropical island indulgence with vibrant activities, creating moments that bring families together in unforgettable ways."

Driving Sustainable Hospitality

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Eco-consciousness is emerging as a significant factor in travel decisions. Shiv Bose, General Manager of Jaisalmer Marriott Resort & Spa, shares how this trend is shaping their approach:
"Travellers are increasingly choosing destinations aligned with their environmental values. Our launch of an EV-charging station reflects our commitment to sustainability. As guardians of Jaisalmer’s UNESCO World Heritage Site status, we continue to prioritize preserving its natural beauty."

Timeless Travel Essence

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Despite changing trends, the core of travel remains timeless. Monica Coppetta, General Manager of OZEN RESERVE BOLIFUSHI, emphasizes:
"Today’s travellers are no longer checking destinations off a list—they are seeking transformative experiences. Whether engaging in local traditions or exploring hidden gems, it’s about the connections they make and the stories they bring back."

From luxury retreats in the Maldives to eco-friendly stays in India, the travel industry is evolving to meet the demands of the modern traveller. As 2025 approaches, these emerging trends promise to enhance journeys with sustainability, inclusivity, and personalization at the forefront.


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.


Thomas Cook India and SOTC Reveal 7 Christmas Getaways Across India

Thomas Cook India and SOTC Reveal 7 Christmas Getaways Across India

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on December 8, 2025

Christmas in India brings together beaches, hills, colonial heritage, and cultural celebrations, creating a festive atmosphere that feels unique to every region. Showcasing this diversity, Thomas Cook India and SOTC Travel have highlighted seven destinations that capture the country’s holiday spirit and inspire travellers to plan memorable year-end trips.

Goa remains one of India’s most popular festive escapes, glowing with lights, carols, and its signature Christmas flavours. Churches such as the Basilica of Bom Jesus and Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception host soulful midnight masses that attract visitors from across the country. Travellers can explore lively Christmas markets, enjoy beachfront music sessions, or savour traditional Goan feasts.

In Kerala, Christmas blends coastal charm with serene celebrations. Cities such as Kochi, Kottayam, and Thiruvananthapuram come alive with star lanterns, nativity displays, and warm community gatherings. A backwater cruise on Christmas Eve, a Kathakali show in Kochi, and the beautifully lit streets of Fort Kochi offer a relaxed yet festive holiday experience.

Puducherry brings together French elegance and coastal simplicity for a peaceful Christmas getaway. White Town turns into a picture-perfect festive setting lined with cafés, heritage buildings, and soft illumination. Visitors can attend midnight mass at the Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, enjoy French-Indian festive menus, or spend quiet evenings by the sea.

For travellers seeking a hill destination, Meghalaya offers a vibrant yet serene celebration. Shillong shines with decorated churches, choir performances, and lively music nights that reflect the state’s strong musical culture. Christmas fairs, colourful lights at Police Bazaar, and outings to Umiam Lake make it an inviting winter retreat.

A culturally rich experience awaits visitors in Nagaland, where community feasts, gospel performances, and beautifully decorated churches define the celebrations. Kohima and Dimapur showcase the state’s strong sense of togetherness, while travellers visiting in early December can also experience the energy of the Hornbill Festival.

Kolkata brings timeless charm to Christmas with its Anglo-Indian traditions and festive street scenes. Park Street turns into a hub of lights, music, and food, drawing crowds throughout the season. Midnight mass at St. Paul’s Cathedral, treats from heritage bakeries, and the warm celebrations of Bow Barracks add to the nostalgic experience.

Those dreaming of a winter escape can head to Shimla, where pine trees, colonial architecture, and the possibility of snow create a classic Christmas mood. The Ridge and Mall Road glow with decorations, while Christ Church offers a peaceful setting for Christmas services. Visitors can enjoy scenic walks, warm cafés, and short trips to Kufri for snow-filled adventures.

Thomas Cook India and SOTC Travel’s curated selection offers travellers a chance to choose a Christmas holiday that suits their festive mood, be it relaxed, cultural, adventurous, or nostalgic.

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