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Embark on India’s inaugural tourist submarine experience in Dwarka, where you can dive beneath the waves to uncover the sunken remnants of this historic city. Seize the opportunity to join this groundbreaking adventure!

Religious tourism in India is currently experiencing rapid growth, and this momentum is about to receive a remarkable enhancement with the Gujarat government’s pioneering initiative to introduce submarine tourism. This visionary project will allow visitors to delve into the ancient underwater city of Dwarka, offering a unique blend of adventure and spiritual exploration. By tapping into the allure of Dwarka’s legendary history, the government aims to create a one-of-a-kind tourist attraction that will draw both domestic and international travelers eager to witness this submerged marvel.

The ambitious plan has taken a significant step forward with the signing of a memorandum of understanding between the Gujarat government and Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders. This collaboration will pave the way for the creation of India’s first underwater tourism facility, specifically tailored to offer tourists an unparalleled experience of Dwarka’s rich historical heritage from beneath the ocean’s surface. The introduction of submarine services represents a groundbreaking moment for India’s tourism sector, promising to set a new standard for heritage tourism in the country.

The project is anticipated to launch by Diwali in October 2024, marking a transformative milestone in India’s tourism landscape. As the first of its kind, this venture will provide travelers with an immersive journey into one of India’s most iconic mythological sites, blending the thrill of underwater exploration with the deep spiritual significance of Dwarka. This innovative approach to tourism is expected to not only boost the local economy but also place India on the global map as a destination for cutting-edge, experiential travel.

Underwater tourism in India

The forthcoming submarine tourism initiative in Dwarka is poised to be a pioneering venture in India, marking the introduction of the country’s very first underwater tourism experience. This innovative project represents a significant leap forward in India’s tourism landscape, building on a deep-rooted tradition of developing religious sites to attract visitors and emphasize their spiritual and cultural significance.

By offering an unprecedented opportunity to explore the submerged city of Dwarka, this initiative is set to provide visitors with a truly unique perspective on one of India’s most storied and revered locations. This new attraction aims to enhance the already diverse and dynamic array of spiritual tourism experiences available in India, adding a fresh and exciting dimension to the nation’s rich heritage and cultural landscape.

Ancient legends recount that the city of Dwarka was submerged beneath the Arabian Sea following the departure of Lord Krishna from the earthly realm, an event that heralded the beginning of the Kali Yuga. The submerged ruins of this city, steeped in mythological significance, are believed to have vanished beneath the ocean’s surface due to divine intervention, marking a crucial moment in Hindu cosmology and the transition into the age of darkness and moral decline known as the Kali Yuga.

The opportunity to explore these underwater remnants of Dwarka will not only offer a deeper connection to the region’s spiritual roots but also serve as a testament to the enduring power of mythology in shaping India’s cultural and historical identity. This submarine tourism initiative is expected to draw both domestic and international travelers, eager to immerse themselves in the rich narratives and ancient mysteries that lie beneath the waves, further solidifying India’s status as a premier destination for spiritual and heritage tourism.

The post India’s Travel Sector Booms As Dwarka’s New, First Submarine Tour To Launch This October 2024 appeared first on Travel And Tour World.

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Tokushima is revamping the Awa Odori Festival, tackling accommodation shortages to better accommodate the influx of tourists this summer.

A city in Shikoku, one of the country’s four main islands, is seeking to liven up its Awa Odori dance festival amid the inbound tourism boom partly by addressing a shortage of accommodation.

The vibrant summer festival in Tokushima attracts over a million spectators annually, but its economic impact has been limited due to a lack of available lodging, which hinders visitors from staying overnight.

The Awa Odori festival, which began on Sunday and runs through Thursday, is being held under heightened caution following Japan’s first-ever advisory for a potential major earthquake in the Nankai Trough, along the Pacific coast. Organizers have implemented measures to guide the public on evacuation procedures in case of a significant quake.

Last year, the festival faced backlash over premium seating. Tickets for elevated seats priced at 200,000 yen per person, aimed primarily at affluent international tourists, were found to breach building standards regulations, resulting in refunds.

Festival-goers often stay in Takamatsu, located in the neighboring Kagawa Prefecture, where hotel options are more plentiful, according to local officials.

To address the accommodation gap, the prefectural government has introduced a subsidy program to encourage the development of four-star hotels.

With Japan anticipating a record 35 million foreign visitors in 2024, both Tokushima’s city and prefectural governments are also planning new events to attract more tourists.

The post Tokushima Aims To Energize Awa Odori Festival with New Accommodation Solutions Amid Tourism Surge appeared first on Travel And Tour World.

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Tokushima is revamping the Awa Odori Festival, tackling accommodation shortages to better accommodate the influx of tourists this summer.

A city in Shikoku, one of the country’s four main islands, is seeking to liven up its Awa Odori dance festival amid the inbound tourism boom partly by addressing a shortage of accommodation.

The vibrant summer festival in Tokushima attracts over a million spectators annually, but its economic impact has been limited due to a lack of available lodging, which hinders visitors from staying overnight.

The Awa Odori festival, which began on Sunday and runs through Thursday, is being held under heightened caution following Japan’s first-ever advisory for a potential major earthquake in the Nankai Trough, along the Pacific coast. Organizers have implemented measures to guide the public on evacuation procedures in case of a significant quake.

Last year, the festival faced backlash over premium seating. Tickets for elevated seats priced at 200,000 yen per person, aimed primarily at affluent international tourists, were found to breach building standards regulations, resulting in refunds.

Festival-goers often stay in Takamatsu, located in the neighboring Kagawa Prefecture, where hotel options are more plentiful, according to local officials.

To address the accommodation gap, the prefectural government has introduced a subsidy program to encourage the development of four-star hotels.

With Japan anticipating a record 35 million foreign visitors in 2024, both Tokushima’s city and prefectural governments are also planning new events to attract more tourists.

The post Tokushima Aims To Energize Awa Odori Festival with New Accommodation Solutions Amid Tourism Surge appeared first on Travel And Tour World.

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Discover Korea’s rich culture for free with the “Korean Bucket List” event, offering 36 immersive experiences including K-pop, markets, and wellness retreats.

The “Korean Bucket List” event provides an exceptional opportunity for visitors to deeply experience Korean culture, all at no cost. This initiative is specifically designed to attract international tourists by offering an immersive introduction to Korea’s rich traditions and modern attractions.

Participants can register through the event’s official platform, where they can choose from a selection of 36 unique programs. These include learning K-pop dance moves, recording popular K-pop songs, exploring traditional markets, and staying in serene temples.

The event also offers exciting activities such as idol-style makeovers and stays at wellness resorts, ensuring a well-rounded cultural experience. With a variety of options available, visitors are guaranteed a memorable and diverse experience.

To further promote tourism beyond Seoul, the government, in partnership with Korea Airports Corporation, is providing 100 domestic flight tickets to selected foreign tourists. These flights will connect Gimpo Airport in Seoul with popular regional destinations like Yeosu, Pohang, Gyeongju, and Jeju, offering easy access to Korea’s stunning landscapes and attractions.

Participants can register through the event’s official platform, where they can select from 36 carefully curated programs. These experiences include learning K-pop dance routines, recording popular K-pop songs, exploring traditional markets, and staying in tranquil temples.

In addition to these activities, the event features exciting opportunities for idol-style makeovers and stays at wellness resorts, ensuring a comprehensive cultural experience. The wide range of offerings is designed to appeal to diverse interests, promising visitors a memorable journey.

To encourage tourism beyond the capital, the government, in collaboration with the Korea Airports Corporation, is offering 100 domestic flight tickets to select foreign tourists. These flights will connect Seoul’s Gimpo Airport with popular regional destinations such as Yeosu, Pohang, Gyeongju, and Jeju, making it easier to explore Korea’s varied landscapes and attractions.

The post Plan Your Tip And Discover 36 Free Cultural Programs With The ‘Korean Bucket List’ Event appeared first on Travel And Tour World.

Reading Time: 2 minutes

Discover Korea’s rich culture for free with the “Korean Bucket List” event, offering 36 immersive experiences including K-pop, markets, and wellness retreats.

The “Korean Bucket List” event provides an exceptional opportunity for visitors to deeply experience Korean culture, all at no cost. This initiative is specifically designed to attract international tourists by offering an immersive introduction to Korea’s rich traditions and modern attractions.

Participants can register through the event’s official platform, where they can choose from a selection of 36 unique programs. These include learning K-pop dance moves, recording popular K-pop songs, exploring traditional markets, and staying in serene temples.

The event also offers exciting activities such as idol-style makeovers and stays at wellness resorts, ensuring a well-rounded cultural experience. With a variety of options available, visitors are guaranteed a memorable and diverse experience.

To further promote tourism beyond Seoul, the government, in partnership with Korea Airports Corporation, is providing 100 domestic flight tickets to selected foreign tourists. These flights will connect Gimpo Airport in Seoul with popular regional destinations like Yeosu, Pohang, Gyeongju, and Jeju, offering easy access to Korea’s stunning landscapes and attractions.

Participants can register through the event’s official platform, where they can select from 36 carefully curated programs. These experiences include learning K-pop dance routines, recording popular K-pop songs, exploring traditional markets, and staying in tranquil temples.

In addition to these activities, the event features exciting opportunities for idol-style makeovers and stays at wellness resorts, ensuring a comprehensive cultural experience. The wide range of offerings is designed to appeal to diverse interests, promising visitors a memorable journey.

To encourage tourism beyond the capital, the government, in collaboration with the Korea Airports Corporation, is offering 100 domestic flight tickets to select foreign tourists. These flights will connect Seoul’s Gimpo Airport with popular regional destinations such as Yeosu, Pohang, Gyeongju, and Jeju, making it easier to explore Korea’s varied landscapes and attractions.

The post Plan Your Tip And Discover 36 Free Cultural Programs With The ‘Korean Bucket List’ Event appeared first on Travel And Tour World.

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Indonesia, the largest economy in Southeast Asia, has credited the recent adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) technology as a key factor in its significant leap on the global tourism competitiveness scale. In the latest Travel and Tourism Development Index, Indonesia climbed to the 22nd position, marking a 10-place advancement from its 2022 ranking. This notable improvement has placed Indonesia ahead of regional peers such as Malaysia, Vietnam, and Thailand. The biennial report, published by the World Economic Forum, highlights Indonesia’s growing prominence in the global tourism sector, with AI playing a pivotal role in enhancing its appeal and competitiveness.

The integration of AI has enabled Indonesia to streamline its tourism services, optimize visitor experiences, and offer personalized travel solutions, all of which have contributed to this impressive rise. The country’s strategic focus on digital transformation and innovation in the tourism industry has not only boosted its rankings but also set a new benchmark for other nations in the region. Indonesia’s success story is a testament to the power of technology in driving economic growth and improving global competitiveness in the tourism sector.

Tourism Development Rankings for Southeast Asian countries

Country2024 Rank2022 RankChange in RankIndonesia2232+10Malaysia2825-3Thailand3130-1Vietnam3436+2Singapore1513-2Philippines4243+1Myanmar7674-2Cambodia6866-2Laos8381-2Brunei5557+2

According to Uno, the value of tourism in Indonesia is increasingly being measured not by the sheer number of visitors but by the quality of their experience. He emphasized that this shift in focus is driven by the use of artificial intelligence, which suggests that the quality of tourists holds greater significance than quantity. In Indonesia, the quality of tourists is reflected in several key metrics, including the duration of their stay and their overall spending during their visit. These indicators are now seen as crucial benchmarks for assessing the true impact of tourism on the economy.

This approach underscores a broader strategy to enhance the tourism sector by attracting visitors who are more likely to engage deeply with the local culture and economy. By prioritizing quality over quantity, Indonesia aims to foster a more sustainable and profitable tourism industry. AI plays a pivotal role in this by providing insights that help tailor experiences to meet the expectations of high-value tourists, thereby boosting their satisfaction and encouraging longer stays and higher expenditure. This strategy not only benefits the local economy but also helps in preserving the cultural and natural resources that make Indonesia a unique destination.

In the first half of this year, Indonesia experienced a significant surge in international tourism, welcoming 6.4 million foreign visitors between January and June. This impressive figure represents a substantial 21% increase compared to the same period last year, highlighting the country’s growing appeal as a global travel destination. The increase in tourist arrivals can be attributed to various factors, including improved international connectivity, enhanced promotional efforts, and the easing of travel restrictions that had previously hindered global mobility.

Building on this momentum, Indonesia has set an ambitious goal for the year, aiming to attract a total of 17 million foreign tourists by the end of the year. This target reflects the country’s confidence in its ability to continue drawing visitors from around the world, bolstered by its diverse cultural heritage, stunning natural landscapes, and a wide array of attractions that cater to different types of travelers. The government and tourism stakeholders are working diligently to ensure that the infrastructure, services, and experiences offered to tourists meet the highest standards, thereby supporting this ambitious target and reinforcing Indonesia’s position as a leading tourist destination in Southeast Asia.

The post Indonesia Tops Southeast Asia Tourism, Beats Malaysia, Vietnam, And Thailand With AI-Driven Growth appeared first on Travel And Tour World.

Reading Time: 3 minutes

Indonesia, the largest economy in Southeast Asia, has credited the recent adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) technology as a key factor in its significant leap on the global tourism competitiveness scale. In the latest Travel and Tourism Development Index, Indonesia climbed to the 22nd position, marking a 10-place advancement from its 2022 ranking. This notable improvement has placed Indonesia ahead of regional peers such as Malaysia, Vietnam, and Thailand. The biennial report, published by the World Economic Forum, highlights Indonesia’s growing prominence in the global tourism sector, with AI playing a pivotal role in enhancing its appeal and competitiveness.

The integration of AI has enabled Indonesia to streamline its tourism services, optimize visitor experiences, and offer personalized travel solutions, all of which have contributed to this impressive rise. The country’s strategic focus on digital transformation and innovation in the tourism industry has not only boosted its rankings but also set a new benchmark for other nations in the region. Indonesia’s success story is a testament to the power of technology in driving economic growth and improving global competitiveness in the tourism sector.

Tourism Development Rankings for Southeast Asian countries

Country2024 Rank2022 RankChange in RankIndonesia2232+10Malaysia2825-3Thailand3130-1Vietnam3436+2Singapore1513-2Philippines4243+1Myanmar7674-2Cambodia6866-2Laos8381-2Brunei5557+2

According to Uno, the value of tourism in Indonesia is increasingly being measured not by the sheer number of visitors but by the quality of their experience. He emphasized that this shift in focus is driven by the use of artificial intelligence, which suggests that the quality of tourists holds greater significance than quantity. In Indonesia, the quality of tourists is reflected in several key metrics, including the duration of their stay and their overall spending during their visit. These indicators are now seen as crucial benchmarks for assessing the true impact of tourism on the economy.

This approach underscores a broader strategy to enhance the tourism sector by attracting visitors who are more likely to engage deeply with the local culture and economy. By prioritizing quality over quantity, Indonesia aims to foster a more sustainable and profitable tourism industry. AI plays a pivotal role in this by providing insights that help tailor experiences to meet the expectations of high-value tourists, thereby boosting their satisfaction and encouraging longer stays and higher expenditure. This strategy not only benefits the local economy but also helps in preserving the cultural and natural resources that make Indonesia a unique destination.

In the first half of this year, Indonesia experienced a significant surge in international tourism, welcoming 6.4 million foreign visitors between January and June. This impressive figure represents a substantial 21% increase compared to the same period last year, highlighting the country’s growing appeal as a global travel destination. The increase in tourist arrivals can be attributed to various factors, including improved international connectivity, enhanced promotional efforts, and the easing of travel restrictions that had previously hindered global mobility.

Building on this momentum, Indonesia has set an ambitious goal for the year, aiming to attract a total of 17 million foreign tourists by the end of the year. This target reflects the country’s confidence in its ability to continue drawing visitors from around the world, bolstered by its diverse cultural heritage, stunning natural landscapes, and a wide array of attractions that cater to different types of travelers. The government and tourism stakeholders are working diligently to ensure that the infrastructure, services, and experiences offered to tourists meet the highest standards, thereby supporting this ambitious target and reinforcing Indonesia’s position as a leading tourist destination in Southeast Asia.

The post Indonesia Tops Southeast Asia Tourism, Beats Malaysia, Vietnam, And Thailand With AI-Driven Growth appeared first on Travel And Tour World.

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Maharashtra’s tourism policy boosts cruise and houseboat tourism, leveraging waterways to draw more visitors and revitalize the state’s travel industry.

On July 17, the state government unveiled a new tourism strategy aimed at revitalizing the tourism sector in Maharashtra. This policy focuses on enhancing cruise and houseboat tourism across the state, signaling a significant push towards leveraging Maharashtra’s rich waterways to attract more tourists.

Under this new policy, the government plans to develop cruise and waterways tourism in several key regions, including Konkan, Mumbai, Pune, Nashik, Nagpur, and other cities. To ensure the successful implementation of this initiative, a meeting was held on August 8, during which the tourism department resolved to appoint a panel of experts. These experts will be tasked with identifying potential sites and crafting a comprehensive plan for the development of waterways tourism. Additionally, the panel will explore sustainable options for cruise tourism, ensuring that the growth in this sector aligns with environmental considerations.

A major aspect of this policy is the promotion of tourism in coastal areas. The state aims to develop jetty spots at eight strategic locations along the coastline, including popular destinations such as Alibaug, Murud-Janjira, Ganpati Pule, and Dapoli. By enhancing infrastructure in these areas, the government hopes to boost tourism and create new opportunities for economic growth in these coastal regions.

Furthermore, the policy outlines plans to develop cruise tourism on rivers like the Godavari and Narmada, which maintain a consistent flow throughout the year. This initiative is expected to open up new avenues for river tourism, attracting both domestic and international tourists to experience Maharashtra’s scenic river landscapes from the comfort of a cruise.

In addition to river cruises, the state government is keen on introducing floating houseboat tourism. This initiative will focus on integrating houseboats into small and medium-scale dam projects, as well as select rivers in cities like Pune, Nashik, and Nagpur. By diversifying the types of water-based tourism available, the government aims to cater to a broader range of tourist preferences, thus boosting overall tourism numbers.

Overall, this new tourism policy represents a comprehensive effort by the Maharashtra government to capitalize on the state’s natural waterways. Through careful planning and sustainable development, the state aims to transform its coastal and river tourism sectors, offering unique experiences that are both eco-friendly and economically beneficial.

The post Maharashtra’s new Tourism Policy Aims to Enhance Cruise and Houseboat Attractions appeared first on Travel And Tour World.

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Italy sees a surge in global tourists in August, undeterred by intense heatwaves sweeping the nation and pushing temperatures to record highs.

The surge in individuals seeking emergency care for heat-related illnesses has significantly increased in some of Italy’s most popular tourist destinations as the nation grapples with an intense heatwave that hasn’t deterred visitors.

Since mid-June, Italy has been under the grip of consecutive heatwaves. In the coming days, certain central and southern regions are forecasted to experience temperatures soaring above 40°C.

On Monday, the health ministry issued a red alert for 17 cities, signaling that even healthy individuals could be at risk from the extreme heat. Those residing in or visiting these areas are advised to avoid direct sunlight between 11 a.m. and 6 p.m.

Fabio De Iaco, the president of the Italian Society of Emergency Medicine, informed Corriere della Sera that as the heatwave intensified, there was a 20% increase in the number of people seeking emergency care for heat-related issues in cities such as Rome, Florence, Venice, and Naples.

In Rome, incidents of people fainting from the heat have been reported in St. Peter’s Square and near popular landmarks like the Trevi Fountain.

Dr. Pierpaolo Ciocchetti, the director of the emergency department at Fatebenefratelli Hospital in central Rome, noted that most of those requiring medical attention were elderly and had pre-existing conditions. However, he cautioned that younger people should not underestimate the dangers of extreme heat. He urged people to avoid overcrowding emergency units with conditions that could be managed at home, noting a concurrent rise in hospital admissions for COVID-19.

The majority of heat-related cases are treated with rehydration, with only 1-2% requiring hospitalization.

In July, four deaths in Italy were linked to heat-related illnesses. Last week, a 26-year-old woman in Turin underwent an emergency liver transplant after collapsing from heatstroke while working on a farm.

Despite the oppressive heat, tourism in Italy remains undeterred, with foreign visitor numbers estimated to be 2.5% higher than in 2023. In July and August, major cities are packed with tourists, while many Italians seek refuge at the beach or in the mountains. However, with sea temperatures exceeding 30°C, finding relief from the heat is challenging even along the coast.

The post Global Tourist Arrivals In Italy Surge Despite Heatwave In August appeared first on Travel And Tour World.

Reading Time: 2 minutes

Italy sees a surge in global tourists in August, undeterred by intense heatwaves sweeping the nation and pushing temperatures to record highs.

The surge in individuals seeking emergency care for heat-related illnesses has significantly increased in some of Italy’s most popular tourist destinations as the nation grapples with an intense heatwave that hasn’t deterred visitors.

Since mid-June, Italy has been under the grip of consecutive heatwaves. In the coming days, certain central and southern regions are forecasted to experience temperatures soaring above 40°C.

On Monday, the health ministry issued a red alert for 17 cities, signaling that even healthy individuals could be at risk from the extreme heat. Those residing in or visiting these areas are advised to avoid direct sunlight between 11 a.m. and 6 p.m.

Fabio De Iaco, the president of the Italian Society of Emergency Medicine, informed Corriere della Sera that as the heatwave intensified, there was a 20% increase in the number of people seeking emergency care for heat-related issues in cities such as Rome, Florence, Venice, and Naples.

In Rome, incidents of people fainting from the heat have been reported in St. Peter’s Square and near popular landmarks like the Trevi Fountain.

Dr. Pierpaolo Ciocchetti, the director of the emergency department at Fatebenefratelli Hospital in central Rome, noted that most of those requiring medical attention were elderly and had pre-existing conditions. However, he cautioned that younger people should not underestimate the dangers of extreme heat. He urged people to avoid overcrowding emergency units with conditions that could be managed at home, noting a concurrent rise in hospital admissions for COVID-19.

The majority of heat-related cases are treated with rehydration, with only 1-2% requiring hospitalization.

In July, four deaths in Italy were linked to heat-related illnesses. Last week, a 26-year-old woman in Turin underwent an emergency liver transplant after collapsing from heatstroke while working on a farm.

Despite the oppressive heat, tourism in Italy remains undeterred, with foreign visitor numbers estimated to be 2.5% higher than in 2023. In July and August, major cities are packed with tourists, while many Italians seek refuge at the beach or in the mountains. However, with sea temperatures exceeding 30°C, finding relief from the heat is challenging even along the coast.

The post Global Tourist Arrivals In Italy Surge Despite Heatwave In August appeared first on Travel And Tour World.