IRCTC unveils upgraded Golden Chariot for 2026–27 season
IRCTC has announced the upgraded Golden Chariot Luxury Train for the 2026–27 tourist season, featuring refreshed cabins, redesigned interiors, Smart TVs, Wi-Fi-enabled entertainment, CCTV and advanced fire alarm systems. The train will offer three curated South India itineraries — Pride of Karnataka, Jewels of South and Glimpses of Karnataka. IRCTC is also offering discounts on selected departures, with additional early-bird benefits for bookings made by June 30, 2026.
Saudia receives first Airbus A321XLR in Middle East and Africa
Saudia has taken delivery of its first Airbus A321XLR, becoming the first airline in the Middle East and Africa to receive the extra long-range narrow-body aircraft. With a range of up to 8,700 km and flying time of up to nine hours, the aircraft will support Saudia’s international expansion. It also introduces elements of “The New Saudia Experience”, featuring upgraded cabins, inflight connectivity, enhanced entertainment and personalised Business Class dining.
Telangana Tourism Conclave explores new branding ideas
The National Institute of Tourism and Hospitality Management, Hyderabad, organised a Tourism Conclave on “Destination Telangana – The Road Ahead” as part of Tourism Week celebrations. The event brought together policymakers, tourism experts and industry stakeholders to discuss heritage, sustainable and experiential tourism. Speakers highlighted Telangana’s cultural assets, including Bathukamma, Deccan heritage, lakes, forts, cuisine and the Kohinoor legacy, as strong elements for building a distinctive global tourism identity.
PRISM expands Studio 6 Portfolio with 38 extended-stay hotels in US
PRISM, corporate parent of OYO, has launched 38 extended-stay hotels across the US under Studio 6, part of G6 Hospitality. The portfolio spans cities including New York, Dallas, Houston, Phoenix, Charlotte, Las Vegas and Indianapolis. Designed for long-stay travellers, the hotels offer kitchenettes, workspaces, laundry and flexible housekeeping. PRISM plans to deploy India-built technology, revenue management systems and AI capabilities across these properties.
#First Opinion
“Tourism development today requires much more than infrastructure creation; it requires professional destination management, seamless visitor experiences, strong branding, and coordinated stakeholder participation. The DMO framework can help create structured, professionally managed destinations that strengthen local economies, improve tourism services, and enhance Maharashtra’s competitiveness in the global tourism market.
Shri Neelesh R. Gatne (IAS),
Managing Director, Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC)
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