IndiGo, a low-cost carrier in India, has recently added a hotel booking option to its website and app. The goal is to provide customers with a convenient one-step solution for booking both flights and hotels. Through a partnership with Vernost Marketing Services, a marketing partner of the Expedia group, IndiGo customers can access exclusive discounts on over 700,000 properties across 250,000 destinations. While IndiGo is not the first Indian airline to offer this integrated service, the move aligns with the trend of airlines aiming to provide a seamless travel booking experience for their customers.
Other Indian airlines, such as Vistara and SpiceJet, have also introduced integrated flight and hotel booking platforms. Vistara’s partnership with Booking.com allows customers to earn rewards points for hotel bookings, while SpiceJet’s Spice Vacations platform offers a range of booking options. In line with this industry trend, IndiGo is expanding its operations and codeshare partnerships, with plans to launch a business class later this year. CEO Pieter Elbers aims to position IndiGo as a global aviation player, showcasing the airline’s commitment to enhancing its services and offerings for customers.
In other news, Mumbai International Airport has introduced a digital gateway solution to enhance the travel experience for passengers. By increasing the number of e-gates, the airport can process a higher volume of passengers efficiently, reducing wait times and improving overall passenger movement. These upgrades are part of the airport’s efforts to enhance security measures and streamline the check-in process for travelers, reflecting a commitment to providing a seamless and hassle-free travel experience.
The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts is set to launch one of India’s largest IPOs, seeking a valuation of approximately $2.5 billion. The company’s public offering aims to raise around $377 million, with plans to list within the next nine months. The IPO excludes The Leela Mumbai, a property already listed by Hotel Leelaventure Limited. Additionally, Sarovar Hotels and Resorts has announced the Sarovar Leadership Development Program in collaboration with the Indian School of Hospitality. The program is designed to provide young professionals in the hotel industry with career development opportunities and skill-building experiences.
The Korea Tourism Organization recently concluded a roadshow in Kochi, focusing on engaging travel agents and promoting South Korea as a premier travel destination. With plans to welcome 200,000 Indian tourists in 2024, the organization aims to capitalize on the growing interest in South Korea among Indian travelers. Finally, BBC Studios’ streaming service is set to debut a new series, ‘Grand Indian Hotel,’ featuring Oberoi Hotels and Resorts. The series showcases the hospitality traditions and service excellence of Oberoi properties, highlighting the commitment to upholding high standards of hospitality. Through these initiatives and developments, the hospitality and tourism industry in India continues to evolve and adapt to meet the changing needs and preferences of travelers.
