Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan will inaugurate KTM 2026 on September 24 at the Grand Hyatt Convention Centre, Bolgatty, Kochi. The event assumes added significance as the first major tourism industry gathering following the formation of Kerala’s new government, reflecting the state’s commitment to strengthening tourism as a key economic driver. Business sessions and B2B meetings will continue from September 25 to 27 at the Sagara and Samudrika Convention Centres on Willingdon Island.

Announcing the event, Kerala’s Minister for Tourism and Culture, P.C. Vishnunadh, said the government is working on implementing the proposal announced in the recent state budget to accord industry status to the tourism sector. He described KTM as a strategic platform that reinforces Kerala’s position in the global marketplace, noting that the state competes with leading international destinations rather than domestic tourism markets. The minister also highlighted plans to reposition Kerala’s renowned Ayurveda and wellness offerings to better align with evolving global travel preferences.

The enthusiasm surrounding KTM 2026 is already evident. Nearly three months before the event, the mart has recorded an unprecedented 2,360 buyer registrations, including 610 international buyers and 1,750 from across India. Media participation is equally impressive, with 117 accredited journalists—60 international and 57 domestic—expected to cover the event. The exhibition will bring together 366 exhibitors, supported by delegates representing sponsors and government agencies.

Widely regarded as India’s premier tourism networking platform, KTM 2026 will feature structured B2B meetings, policy discussions and knowledge sessions led by distinguished tourism experts from India and overseas. The programme is designed to foster new partnerships, explore emerging market opportunities and facilitate meaningful dialogue on the future of travel.

Following the business sessions, international and domestic buyers will embark on curated familiarisation tours across twelve tourism circuits from September 28 to October 3, offering immersive experiences of Kerala’s diverse tourism products, from backwaters and beaches to heritage, wellness and nature-based experiences. Invited journalists will also participate in specially curated pre-mart media tours.

This year’s edition also marks KTM’s digital transformation. For the first time, registrations, appointment scheduling and event management will be integrated through a dedicated software platform and mobile application, delivering a seamless experience for exhibitors, buyers and delegates.

The organisers also highlighted the momentum created by the recently concluded Wedding and MICE Conclave, jointly organised by KTM and Kerala Tourism. The conclave resulted in key initiatives, including the proposed Kerala Convention Promotion Bureau and the formulation of a dedicated MICE policy, signalling the state’s intent to expand its footprint in the lucrative business events segment.

Tourism Secretary K. Biju said KTM has the potential to evolve into one of Asia’s leading tourism trade events through greater international participation and stronger industry engagement. Tourism Director M. Anjana noted that the mart will provide valuable insights into emerging travel trends while creating new opportunities for stakeholders across the tourism value chain. Meanwhile, KTM organisers confirmed that focused international marketing campaigns are underway to attract buyers from both established and emerging markets, further strengthening Kerala’s standing as one of the world’s most compelling travel destinations.

With record buyer registrations, a future-focused agenda and renewed government support, Kerala Travel Mart 2026 is poised to reinforce the state’s reputation as a global tourism powerhouse while opening new avenues for business, investment and international collaboration.

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OUTRIGGER Hospitality Group announces the opening of OUTRIGGER Phi Phi Island Resort in Thailand, welcoming its first guests and joining OUTRIGGER’s Thailand portfolio alongside properties in Koh Samui, Khao Lak, and Phuket. Set within the protected boundaries of Hat Noppharat Thara-Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park, the resort offers 63 suites and villas on a stretch of coastline where limestone cliffs rise from jade-green water, coconut palms line a white-sand beach, and the Andaman Sea sets the rhythm of each day.

“What we’ve created at Phi Phi Island is truly special — a resort that matches one of Thailand’s most breathtaking settings and honors the culture and environment that make it extraordinary. This opening is a reflection of OUTRIGGER’s long-term commitment to Thailand, and for those who make the journey here, I believe it will be unlike anything they’ve experienced before,” said Jeff Wagoner, President & CEO of OUTRIGGER Hospitality Group.

Accessible only by boat, the resort sits inside a national park where development is tightly controlled, and the natural environment remains largely untouched. Guests arrive by sea, stepping onto the sand as the Andaman horizon opens before them.

The resort’s suites and villas are guided by “Nit Thra,” a Thai concept centered on the soul of rest. Handcrafted furnishings, organic textiles, and woven motifs drawn from the island’s craft traditions give each space its character, alongside contemporary amenities. Three accommodation types lead the offering: the Hilltop Ocean View Pool Villa, with a private infinity pool and sea views; the Beachfront Pool Villa, positioned directly on the sand; and the Family Garden Villa, wrapped in tropical gardens.

At the resort’s Mala Kitchen, resident chefs work within the philosophy of “Samrub Thai” – a Southern Thai culinary approach built on the balance of taste, texture, and tradition. The menu draws on the region’s spices, fresh produce, and coastal ingredients, prepared and presented by chefs with deep roots in the local food culture. The Edgewater Bar & Grill serves fresh local seafood, aromatic curries, and tropical cocktails at the edge of the Andaman Sea – with an open view of the water that makes it the natural setting for sundowners & long evenings.

The national park that surrounds the resort is one of the most biodiverse marine environments in Southeast Asia. PADI-certified diving excursions reach coral formations where sea turtles, manta rays, and reef sharks are regular sightings. Eco-sensitive boat rides access islands and coves that see limited visitor traffic. Long-tail boat picnics travel the mangrove channels at a pace that suits the landscape. Back on land, private Thai cooking classes, non-motorized water sports, and bead-making sessions, drawn from the island’s ancient craft traditions, round out the offering. Relaxation journeys at Zeavola Spa are grounded in Southern Thai wellness practices and local botanicals. The Coral Kids Club and a teen zone ensure the resort works equally well for families. For guests who wish to explore further, Tonsai Village – Phi Phi’s lively hub of restaurants, bars, and local shops – is a short boat ride away.

The indigenous Urak Lawoi people have inhabited these islands for centuries, and their heritage informed the resort’s design as well as its welcome rituals. Each arriving guest receives a handcrafted bead bracelet, a gesture rooted in Urak Lawoi tradition and a reflection of the community’s place at the heart of the resort’s identity. Guests wishing to learn more can join bead-making sessions that trace the craft’s origins along the island’s historic trade routes.

The resort was constructed using local, organic materials and designed to work with its environment – maximizing natural light and ventilation, minimizing waste and protecting the ecosystem it sits within. Operating inside a national park is both a privilege and a responsibility; the standards applied here reflect that. The aim is straightforward: guests leave nothing behind except footprints in the sand.

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With Ortahisar’s inclusion in the Cittaslow Network, Türkiye’s total number of slow cities has risen to 29, further strengthening the country’s presence in the global Cittaslow movement.

Ortahisar: Where Heritage and Slow Living Unite

Ortahisar, which has also earned a spot on Forbes’ 2025 list of ‘The World’s 50 Most Beautiful Villages, stands out as a must-visit destination and deserves a place on every traveller’s bucket list in the region. Located approximately 6 km from Ürgüp, one of Cappadocia’s largest settlements, Ortahisar showcases the region’s distinctive rock-carved architecture, crowned by its ancient castle and an iconic skyline dotted with hot-air balloons.

At the heart of the town rises the Ortahisar Castle, believed to date back to the Hittite period. Today, the castle serves as one of the region’s highest points, and offers breathtaking panoramic views over Cappadocia’s dramatic landscape. Carved into the rock, the castle features an intricate network of caves, dovecotes and labyrinthine tunnels, and is widely regarded as ‘one of the world’s earliest multi-storey settlements’.

Clustered around the castle are striking examples of Cappadocia’s vernacular architecture. Stone-paved alleys, lined with apricot stalls and rose-scented tea gardens, lead visitors toward scenic valleys that once played a vital role in the area’s agricultural life. The rock-carved storage spaces in these valleys historically preserved local products, including apples and potatoes, as well as citrus fruits brought from the Mediterranean, such as oranges and lemons.

Ortahisar is also home to remarkable religious landmarks, including Sarıca Church, Cambazlı Church, Tavşanlı Church, the Balkan Deresi churches and Hallaç Deresi Monastery, all reflecting the deep-rooted spiritual and cultural heritage that defines Cappadocia.

Türkiye Embraces the Cittaslow Spirit

The Cittaslow movement emerged in response to concerns that globalisation is homogenising city life and erasing its unique identity. In Cittaslow cities, life moves leisurely, and local cuisine, architecture, traditions, and history are well-preserved. The Cittaslow Türkiye network was established in 2009 when Seferihisar became the first Turkish member of the Cittaslow. Since then, the network has steadily expanded as new cities have joined.

Today, Cittaslow Türkiye comprises 29 districts across 24 provinces in all seven regions of the country, further strengthening Türkiye’s reputation for preserving its rich cultural heritage and local identity. Türkiye’s twenty-nine Cittaslow cities include Ahlat, Akyaka, Arapgir, Çameli, Demre, Daday, Eğirdir, Finike, Foça, Gökçeada, Gerze, Göynük, Güdül, Halfeti, İbradı, İznik, Kemaliye, Köyceğiz, Mudurnu, Ortahisar, Perşembe, Safranbolu, Şarköy, Şavşat, Seferihisar, Uzundere, Vize, Yalvaç and Yenipazar.

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Jamaica’s tourism sector has maintained a strong growth trajectory, with the destination recording over three million visitor arrivals by the end of 2025 and into early 2026, reflecting sustained global demand and renewed traveller confidence. This performance reinforces Jamaica’s position as one of the Caribbean’s most resilient and sought-after destinations, supported by strategic destination marketing, expanding air connectivity and a diversified tourism product.

“India represents a significant growth opportunity for Jamaica’s tourism sector,” said the Honourable Edmund Bartlett, Jamaica’s Minister of Tourism. “Indian travellers are sophisticated, discerning consumers who appreciate authentic cultural experiences, luxury hospitality, and bespoke travel offerings. Jamaica’s world-class romance tourism product, from intimate beachfront weddings to luxurious honeymoon experiences, aligns perfectly with what the Indian market is seeking. Our presence at SATTE 2026 underscores our commitment to building deeper partnerships with India’s travel trade and positioning Jamaica as the Caribbean’s premier romance destination for Indian couples.”

As part of its presence at SATTE 2026, the Jamaica Tourist Board will place a renewed spotlight on India as a priority growth market, aligning with the destination’s broader international marketing strategy. With Indian travellers increasingly seeking long-haul destinations that offer immersive cultural experiences, luxury, leisure, weddings and curated travel, Jamaica continues to see strong potential for growth from the market.

In this context, the Jamaica Tourist Board is preparing a focused marketing push for India, aimed at strengthening trade relationships, increasing destination visibility and driving deeper engagement with Indian travel partners and consumers. The upcoming initiatives are designed to build sustained awareness of Jamaica’s tourism offerings and support long-term market development.

Jamaica’s participation at SATTE 2026 reflects its commitment to strengthening partnerships with the Indian travel trade and media, while showcasing the destination’s evolving tourism landscape that extends beyond leisure travel to include culture, music, heritage, wellness and experiential journeys. The destination’s robust infrastructure for destination weddings, including dedicated wedding coordinators at major resorts, simplified legal requirements for overseas couples, and experienced local vendors, positions Jamaica as an ideal choice for Indian couples seeking a Caribbean destination wedding experience.

The Jamaica Tourist Board remains focused on expanding its presence across key international markets and leveraging platforms such as SATTE to reinforce Jamaica’s appeal as a dynamic, year-round destination for Indian travellers, including couples seeking unforgettable romance experiences in the Caribbean.

In a strong sign of investor confidence and product expansion in Jamaica’s tourism sector, the luxury Excellence Oyster Bay resort in Trelawny has announced a significant US $25 million expansion programme, adding 50 ultra-luxury villa accommodations with private butler and personalised service by the end of this year. The investment also includes about US $8 million in upgraded staff accommodation and wellbeing facilities, reinforcing the resort’s commitment to both world-class guest experiences and local employment. This announcement — made jointly by the resort’s CEO and Jamaica’s Minister of Tourism — comes as the property continues to rebound strongly after Hurricane Melissa, underscoring Jamaica’s growing appeal as a resilient, high-end destination with evolving product offerings for international travellers.

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Running until February 27, the Jordanian delegation is operating out of a dedicated national pavilion. The contingent comprises key representatives from the Kingdom’s tourism and hospitality sectors, alongside its national carrier, Royal Jordanian Airlines.

In a statement released during the exhibition, the JTB framed its participation as a core component of a broader strategy to deepen its resonance within the Indian market. “The participation at SATTE 2026 is part of JTB’s ongoing efforts to enhance Jordan’s footprint in the promising Indian market,” the statement read.

This growing interest is reflected in Jordan’s 2025 arrival figures, which indicate a strong market rebound. Overall Indian arrivals reached 48,105 last year, marking a notable 23% increase compared to 2024 and signaling a steady recovery. More significantly, air arrivals—a key indicator of tourism demand—surged in the final quarter of 2025, surpassing even the exceptional 2023 levels by 29%. December 2025 emerged as a standout month, recording a remarkable 59% year-on-year increase in Indian air arrivals.

The promotional focus in New Delhi is on the diverse range of experiences Jordan offers. The JTB is actively showcasing cultural and religious heritage, adventure tourism, medical travel, as well as its capacity for MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) and wedding tourism. According to the statement, this targeted approach “responds to the growing demand from Indian tourists for distinctive destinations and luxury experiences in Jordan.”

Beyond the exhibition floor, the program includes a series of scheduled bilateral meetings with major Indian travel companies. These discussions are aimed at forging partnerships to increase tourist arrivals from India to Jordan.

Supporting these promotional efforts, Royal Jordanian is bolstering its operational footprint in the country. The airline currently operates direct flights to Mumbai and is preparing to launch a direct route to New Delhi. The enhancement of air connectivity is expected to facilitate a smoother flow of tourism and trade between the two nations, further solidifying Jordan’s position on the global tourism map.

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In response to this surge, Asego is spotlighting its Southeast Asia & UAE Travel Special Plans — destination-focused global assistance and travel insurance solutions curated for today’s Indian international traveller.

The plans provide 24/7 emergency medical assistance and evacuation support, coverage for life-threatening pre-existing conditions, adventure sports injury cover up to USD 20,000, and protection against flight delays and cancellations. With adventure-led itineraries across Dubai, Singapore, Bali, Thailand, and Vietnam on the rise, structured medical backing has become essential.

To address operational travel challenges, Asego integrates BOLT+, offering real-time baggage tracking, lounge access during flight delays, and global eSIM connectivity — reducing on-ground stress for travellers.

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The inaugural edition of the Festival of Arunachal 2026, organised by the Department of Tourism, Government of Arunachal Pradesh with the support of the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, concluded successfully at Dilli Haat, INA, New Delhi. The two-day festival marked a significant milestone in presenting the State’s rich cultural heritage and growing tourism potential to audiences in the national capital.

Held on 21–22 February 2026, the festival recorded a footfall of more than 6000 visitors across two days, reflecting strong public interest in Arunachal Pradesh’s diverse traditions, crafts and tourism offerings.

The festival brought together exhibitors from various tribes and districts of Arunachal Pradesh, showcasing indigenous handicrafts, handwoven textiles, organic agricultural products, traditional cuisine and community-led enterprises. Visitors experienced vibrant cultural performances, ethnic fashion presentations, soulful tribal music and the traditional Yak Dance. Curated audio-visual presentations further highlighted the State’s breathtaking landscapes and emerging tourism experiences.

Speaking on the occasion, Shri Pasang Dorjee Sona, Hon’ble Minister of Education, Tourism, Rural Works, Libraries and Parliamentary Affairs, Government of Arunachal Pradesh, said, “The Festival of Arunachal 2026 marks an important step in taking our State’s identity, culture and tourism offerings to a wider national audience. The festival showcases Arunachal Pradesh’s strengths in culture, handicrafts and tourism, while creating meaningful market linkages for our community-led enterprises. We are committed to positioning Arunachal Pradesh as one of the most preferred experiential and cultural tourism destinations in the country. Such initiatives strengthen our cultural connect across India and reinforce confidence in our local industries”.

The second day of the festival was graced by several distinguished dignitaries including Shri Neeraj Kumar, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (MDoNER), Smt. Indra Mallo, IAS, Additional Secretary, Smt. Mitali Namchoom, IAS,Director Department of Women and Child Development (Government of NCT of Delhi), Shri Anirudh Saran Singh, IRS, Smt. Seema Jain, Director, Ministry of Tourism, Shri Arun Srivastava, Joint Director General Strategy & Product Development Division, Smt Maya Lingi, Joint Secretary, Lok Sabha Secretariat, Parliament of India., Shri Anupam Yadav, OSD to CM of Arunachal Pradesh, Smt Manna Bengia Sonam, Deputy Director, Department of Tourism, Arunachal Pradesh and Smt. Adong Moyong, Resident Tourism Officer, Department of Tourism, Arunachal Pradesh, among others dignitaries. Their presence underscored the growing national focus on strengthening tourism and cultural promotion of the Northeast region.

The festival served not only as a cultural showcase but also as a strategic tourism outreach initiative, highlighting emerging sectors such as agro-tourism, sustainable farming practices, indigenous food traditions and responsible travel experiences.

Notably, Festival of Arunachal 2026 was the first edition of the event and the first time it was organised in New Delhi, marking a new chapter in the State’s tourism promotion efforts at the national level.

The successful conclusion of the inaugural edition has set the stage for future engagements aimed at strengthening Arunachal Pradesh’s presence in key tourism markets across India.

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Mumbai, 13 February 2026: Strengthening its on-ground connection with the travel trade, Global Destinations concluded its 6th Annual Roadshow, bringing together 8 tourism brand partners and engaging with over 200 travel agents across Surat, Ahmedabad, and Kolkata. The multi-city initiative provided a focused platform for knowledge exchange, product updates, and the strengthening of meaningful relationships with the travel fraternity.

The cities were strategically selected for their growing outbound relevance. While Tier II markets such as Surat continue to demonstrate strong momentum, metro hubs like Kolkata and Ahmedabad remain key source markets for high-value, well-travelled clients seeking new destinations, innovative itineraries, and immersive travel experiences. The inclusion of at least one Tier II city is a conscious element of Global Destinations’ annual roadshow strategy, aimed at engaging trade partners who cater to discerning, high-spending clientele and offer strong growth potential.

Participating partners included AlliedTPro (USA), Australia & Worldwide Travel (Australia), Desert Adventures (UAE, Jordan & Oman), Escapes & Co. Travel (Morocco), Private Safaris (East Africa), Sopa Lodges (East Africa), Tangerine Tours (Sri Lanka), Threeland Travel (Indo China), and World of Travel Factory (Greece & Cyprus), each offering destination insights and product updates to support trade partners during a critical planning phase.

Sharing his perspective, Pranav Kapadia, Founder & Director, Global Destinations, said:

“Our roadshow is not just about reach, but about relevance. Its timing, just ahead of the peak travel season, allows trade partners direct access to destination insights when client enquiries are strongest. Engaging closely with partners across both emerging and established markets enables us to align offerings with evolving traveller expectations and grow business collaboratively.”

Global Destinations’ participation at OTM 2026 preceded the roadshow, enabling engagement with a wide network of travel professionals and reinforcing visibility for partner destinations during one of the industry’s key business events.

With strong participation and high-quality interactions across all three cities, the initiative reaffirmed Global Destinations’ commitment to empowering the trade and strengthening outbound travel growth across India.

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The brand has been very strong for FIT and Groups historically and Mice has now became the significant new segment with a deep strategy behind it.

Speaking on the momentum, Mita Vohra, Board Director, Sarova Hotels & Resorts, said: “I am deeply grateful for the overwhelming support we received from the Indian travel trade in 2025. It truly has been such an formidable and fast to open up! As we look ahead to 2026, our focus will be on deepening our presence in the existing markets that have shown strong potential, while also exploring newer markets across India. We truly value our trade partners and look forward to continued collaboration and shared growth in the year ahead.” 

Following OTM 2026, Sarova Hotels & Resorts hosted a mice networking dinner in Mumbai on 10 February at Eve, Worli, bringing together around 30 leading mice agents and key media representatives. The evening was marked by warm hospitality, curated drinks and dinner, and engaging conversations, creating a relaxed setting for networking and relationship building. Hosted with gratitude and warmth, the gathering reflected Sarova’s appreciation for its partners and the strength of its industry relationships. 

As Sarova Hotels & Resorts Kenya steps into 2026, the group remains committed to its renovation plan which is transforming our product dramatically to give the very best to you. As always India has a deep place in the hearts of our Brand. The market is so dynamic and the pulse and love in tourism is above and beyond. We always learn when we are in India and look forward to what comes next.

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· Up to 45% off at Saudi’s most sought-after stays including Banyan Tree AlUla, Our Habitas AlUla, Ashar Tented Resort, Shaden Resort, Desert Rock, and Shebara.

Saudi, Welcome to Arabia, the consumer facing brand of Saudi Tourism Authority (STA), has unveiled a new collection of exclusive travel deals for early 2026 as part of its global Ramadan campaign, “Embrace the Radiance of Ramadan Lights.” These limited‑time offers provide exceptional value across Saudi’s most iconic destinations, and idyllic resorts in The Red Sea and AlUla, giving travelers broader access to night itineraries designed specifically for the season.

Saudi, Welcome to Arabia and its strategic partners are rolling out luxury-made-affordable Ramadan offers across The Red Sea, and AlUla. With over 35 curated packages, travelers can enjoy special Ramadan pricing across more than 12 remarkable properties. Guests can enjoy exceptional savings in spectacular natural settings, including up to 42% off at Banyan Tree AlUla, 45% at Our Habitas AlUla, 35% at Ashar Tented Resort and Chedi Hegra, and 30% at Shaden Resort. While those visiting The Red Sea can benefit from 20% savings at standout properties such as Desert Rock and Shebara, creating opportunities to experience restorative wellness, contemporary design, and unforgettable coastal and heritage‑rich escapes.

At a time when Saudi is seeing record tourism growth, reaching more than 122 million visitors in 2025 and advancing toward its goal of being among the top ten tourism destinations, these exclusive deals open the door for even more travelers to experience the country during Ramadan.

Throughout the month of Ramadan, Saudi adds an extra layer of warmth, beauty, and celebration to its destinations. Days carry a gentle rhythm, defined by relaxation, wellness, and opportunities for meaningful pauses, while nights come alive with softly lit streets, lively souks, seasonal festivities, and exceptional culinary moments enhanced by Saudi hospitality. Riyadh, Jeddah, and Diriyah too, offer Ramadan tents, markets, and events with their own distinct flavor. Visitors will be able to experience the unique charm of Ramadan,

Saudi style – a month where calm meets celebration, and where the radiance of Ramadan lights reflects the inimitable Saudi hospitality

In addition to the exclusive deals in the enchanting resorts at The Red Sea and AlUla, throughout Ramadan, visitors to Saudi can enjoy illuminated night markets, festive streetscapes, beautifully prepared Iftar and Suhoor settings and opportunities for heritage exploration and adventure in Riyadh, Jeddah, and Diriyah. Every moment offers a chance to connect with Saudi’s iconic destinations at a time when generosity and communal spirit define the month. Explore all deals and packages on the Visit Saudi website from 26 January 2026

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