Andhra Pradesh invites IATO members to drive tourism growth
Andhra Pradesh Tourism Minister Kandula Durgesh has invited IATO members to partner with the State to develop and promote its diverse tourism offerings. Speaking ahead of the 41st IATO Annual Convention in Visakhapatnam from September 10–12, 2026, he highlighted spiritual, heritage, coastal, tribal, adventure, MICE and culinary tourism opportunities. He also identified Godavari Pushkaralu 2027 as a major platform to showcase Andhra Pradesh globally.
Georgia strengthens appeal as global filming destination
Georgia is emerging as a preferred international filming destination, offering diverse landscapes ranging from historic cities and alpine mountains to monasteries and the Black Sea coast. Its “Film in Georgia” programme provides a 20–25% cash rebate on eligible local expenses. Global and Indian productions, including Extraction 2, F9, Billa II, Sye Raa Narasimha Reddy and Special Ops 2, have showcased Georgia’s cinematic versatility.
Maldivian expands AVIAREPS India mandate pan-India
Maldivian has expanded AVIAREPS India’s representation from South India to a pan-India GSA mandate, strengthening its commercial focus on the Indian market. AVIAREPS will support trade engagement, sales and visibility across key cities. The airline currently operates services from Malé to Kochi and Thiruvananthapuram, and between Hanimaadhoo and Thiruvananthapuram. India contributed nearly 190,000 visitor arrivals to the Maldives in 2025.
Riyadh Air partners with Disney for family travel experience
Riyadh Air has partnered with The Walt Disney Company to enhance the onboard experience for young travellers. Children aged 0–11 will receive age-specific Mickey & Friends-themed amenity kits on short and long-haul flights, featuring toys, activities and travel accessories. The airline will also offer Disney+ entertainment onboard, including movies, series and Originals from Disney, Pixar, Marvel, National Geographic and Hulu, catering to guests across age groups.
#First Opinion
“For four decades, The Leela has celebrated India’s cultural richness through architecture, design, art, cuisine and hospitality. Music has always been an integral part of that journey, quietly shaping the emotional connection our guests have with our hotels. With Melodies by The Leela, we are bringing together years of original musical collaborations into a distinctive sonic identity that is uniquely our own. As we celebrate forty years of True Indian Luxury, A Living Raga marks the inaugural chapter of this journey, reflecting our commitment to preserving India’s artistic heritage while presenting it in ways that continue to resonate with contemporary audiences.”
Anuraag Bhatnagar,
CEO and Whole-time Director, The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts
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