#AllycaralFeature 👒, #TravelwithAllycaral 👒

Experience Goa’s diversity and charm at OTM Mumbai 2025


Goa Tourism is all set to mesmerize visitors at the highly anticipated OTM Mumbai 2025, Asia’s leading travel and tourism exhibition. The event, scheduled from January 30th to February 1st, 2025, at the Jio World Convention Centre.

Our participation at OTM Mumbai will showcase Goa’s rich cultural heritage, colourful traditions, adventure activities, and spiritual tourism, offering an engaging experience beyond its iconic beaches. Visitors can explore Goa Tourism’s stall at J-T 110, Jasmine Hall, 3rd Floor, which will vividly present Goa’s lesser-explored gems, including heritage sites, traditional festivals, eco-tourism offerings, and much more. Key highlights will include initiatives like Ekadasha Teertha, adventure tourism, and spiritual tourism, underscoring Goa’s dedication to sustainability and cultural preservation.

Shri Kedar Naik, Director of Tourism, remarked, “At OTM Mumbai, we are excited to showcase the true essence of Goa. Platforms like OTM allow us to present Goa’s diverse offerings, highlighting the state as a global destination for travellers seeking authentic and enriching experiences.”

Goa Tourisms’ participation reflects the ongoing commitment to promoting regenerative tourism. The pavilion will feature Goa’s cultural legacy, dynamic festivals, thrilling adventure options, and the charm of its serene hinterland. The exhibition also serves as a valuable networking platform to strengthen Goa’s position as a leading, innovative tourism destination. It will also promote Goa as a premier destination for MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) tourism and as an ideal locale for destination weddings, with its picturesque settings and bespoke services offering a memorable backdrop for both business and celebratory events.

Visit Goa Tourism’s stall at OTM Mumbai 2025 and rediscover the magic of “Goa Beyond Beaches.” Experience the sights, sounds, and stories that define Goa’s unique identity, from its bustling markets to traditional celebrations. Learn about the bespoke offerings that make Goa an exceptional destination for leisure, business, and milestone events. Whether you are a traveller seeking adventure, a couple planning a picturesque wedding, or a professional organizing a memorable corporate event, Goa has something special to offer for every occasion. Dive into a world where tradition meets modernity and create unforgettable memories in India’s favourite coastal paradise.

#AllycaralFeature 👒, EduConnect

University of Surrey unveils plans for International Branch Campus (IBC) in GIFT City, with GUS Global Services as strategic partner


The University of Surrey is set to open a world-class International Branch Campus in GIFT City, Gujarat, India, delivered in collaboration with experienced transnational education group GUS Global Services (GGS). Professor GQ Max Lu, President and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Surrey, and Dr Sharad Mehra, Regional CEO – Asia and Australia, Global University Systems (GUS) Asia Pacific, announced the collaborative project on the side lines of the QS India Summit 2025 in Goa today.

The project, which is at an advanced stage of pre-delivery, is contingent on regulatory approval from Gujarat’s International Financial Services Centres Authority (IFSCA) under the International Branch Campus Regulations, in place to position GIFT City as an Indian hub for international higher education providers. Professor Lu and representatives from GGS will be meeting with IFSCA in GIFT City on Friday 31 January to progress discussions.

Delivery of the new India campus will be a partnership combining the University of Surrey’s teaching and research excellence in business, international finance, computer science, cyber-security and other areas aligned with the strategic vision of GIFT City with GGS India’s proven capabilities as a strategic partner for higher education providers. All teaching and academic assurance will be delivered and led by University of Surrey staff. Ancillary services, such as strategic advice on India entry, student enrolment, campus establishment and operations management, will be provided by GGS, ensuring a seamless setup and operational excellence.

The University of Surrey and GGS are working closely with officials from the British High Commission and the British Council in India. The project will help cement ties between the two countries and is closely aligned with Government of India priorities to expand education and become a global knowledge superpower. The UK Government has expressed its appetite for collaboration across a range of scientific priorities and opportunities to drive greater growth for both countries.

Professor GQ Max Lu, President and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Surrey, said:
“The University of Surrey campus at GIFT City will be a shining example of British education excellence and impact, contributing to transnational education in a more globalised world. We are proud and excited to be part of the GIFT City story, where we’ll combine India’s strengths in the global financial sector with the University of Surrey’s academic and teaching competencies in business, finance and computer science.

“Students can look forward to a world-class education delivered at the heart of a thriving new international finance and technology powerhouse for the region. Together we’ll be contributing to the skills and growth agendas of both our countries.”

Dr Sharad Mehra, Regional CEO – Asia & Australia, Global University Systems (GUS), said: “This initiative seeks to expand world-class academic standards and global learning experiences available in India. It will offer Indian students the opportunity to access transformative education without leaving the country. The collaboration aligns with India’s higher education goals, such as improving global competitiveness, offering world-class education locally, and contributing to the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020’s emphasis on internationalisation.”

Aaron Etingen, Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Global University Systems, said: “This strategic alliance between the University of Surrey and Global University Systems in GIFT City represents a significant milestone in transnational education. The collaboration aligns perfectly with our vision of transforming lives through education while supporting India’s ambitions to become a global knowledge hub. By bringing together international expertise and local knowledge, we’re creating pathways that will empower students and strengthen communities. It combines Surrey’s academic excellence with Global University Systems’ proven expertise in educational services, creating new opportunities for students in India to access world-class British education.”

The University of Surrey and GGS delegations will be travelling together from the announcement at the QS India Summit in Goa to GIFT City on January 31 for high-level meetings to accelerate progress on the project, which is designed to grow a talent pool in GIFT City, ready to thrive in a globally-connected world

#AllycaralFeature 👒, #TravelwithAllycaral 👒

Radisson Blu Hotel Bengaluru Achieves Milestone in Sustainability with LEED Net Zero Carbon Certification


In a groundbreaking achievement, Radisson Blu Hotel Bengaluru Outer Ring Road has become the first hotel in Radisson Hotel Group’s global portfolio to receive the prestigious LEED Net Zero Carbon Certificate from the US Green Building Council (USGBC). This top-level certification is a testament to the hotel’s commitment to sustainability and its efforts to reduce its carbon footprint.

The LEED Net Zero Carbon certification is the highest level of recognition for buildings that have achieved net-zero carbon emissions. To achieve this certification, Radisson Blu Hotel Bengaluru Outer Ring Road has implemented various sustainability measures, including investing in renewable energy, reducing energy consumption, and offsetting its carbon emissions.

“We are proud to achieve this milestone in sustainability,” said Mr. Austin Roach, Chairman, Radisson Blu Hotel Bengaluru Outer Ring Road. “At Radisson Blu Hotel Bengaluru Outer Ring Road, sustainability is not just a trend, but a way of life. We are committed to reducing our environmental impact and providing our guests with a sustainable and responsible hospitality experience.”

Some of the sustainability measures implemented by the hotel include:

  • A solar power plant that generates 100% of the hotel’s energy needs
  • An onsite biogas plant that converts waste into energy
  • A rainwater harvesting system that reduces water consumption
  • An effluent treatment plant that recycles wastewater
  • Electric vehicles for guest transportation

The hotel’s commitment to sustainability has also been recognized by the USGBC, which awarded the hotel the LEED Platinum 4.1 O+M Existing Buildings certification last year.

“Radisson Blu Hotel Bengaluru Outer Ring Road is a shining example of sustainability leadership in the hospitality industry,” said Nikhil Sharma, Managing Director & Area Senior Vice President – South Asia, Radisson Hotel Group. “We are committed to reducing our environmental impact and achieving Net Zero across all our properties.”

Inge Huijbrechts, Chief Sustainability and Security Officer, Radisson Hotel Group, added, “As a global hospitality group, we are committed to becoming Net Zero by 2050. Hotels like Radisson Blu Hotel Bengaluru Outer Ring Road demonstrate that sustainability leadership is possible today, and we will continue to innovate and expand our efforts globally.”

The LEED Net Zero Carbon certification is a significant milestone for Radisson Blu Hotel Bengaluru Outer Ring Road and a testament to its commitment to sustainability. The hotel’s efforts to reduce its environmental impact and provide a sustainable hospitality experience make it a leader in the hospitality industry.

#AllycaralFeature 👒, #TravelwithAllycaral 👒

India and China Agree to Resume Kailash Mansarovar Yatra and Direct Flights


In a significant development, India and China have agreed to resume the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, a sacred pilgrimage for Hindus, and direct flights between the two countries. The decision was made during a two-day foreign secretary-level talk in Beijing, where Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri met with Chinese officials.

Resumption of Kailash Mansarovar Yatra

The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, which has been suspended since the Covid-19 outbreak in 2020, is expected to resume in the summer of 2025. The relevant mechanism will discuss the modalities for the pilgrimage as per existing agreements. This development is a significant step forward in promoting people-to-people exchanges and strengthening bilateral ties between India and China.

In-Principle Approval for Direct Flights

In addition to resuming the yatra, India and China have also given an in-principle nod to resume direct flights between the two countries. The relevant technical authorities will meet to negotiate an updated framework for direct air services. This move is expected to boost trade, tourism, and cultural exchanges between the two nations.

A Positive Step in India-China Relations

The agreement to resume the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra and direct flights is seen as a positive step in stabilizing and rebuilding ties between India and China. The two countries have agreed to take people-centric steps to promote bilateral relations, including facilitating people-to-people exchanges and media interactions.

Background

The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is a sacred pilgrimage for Hindus, who believe that Lord Shiva resides on Mount Kailash. The yatra, which takes place every year, involves a trek to Mount Kailash and a visit to Lake Mansarovar. The suspension of the yatra due to the Covid-19 pandemic had caused disappointment among devotees.

Implications

The resumption of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra and direct flights between India and China is expected to have significant implications for bilateral relations, trade, and tourism. The move is likely to boost people-to-people exchanges, cultural exchanges, and economic cooperation between the two nations.

Conclusion

The agreement to resume the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra and direct flights between India and China is a welcome development that is expected to strengthen bilateral ties and promote people-to-people exchanges. The move is a positive step forward in rebuilding trust and cooperation between the two nations.

#AllycaralFeature 👒, Goan Personalities

Meet Sanam Sayad: The Face of Confidence and Beauty


Sanam Sayad, a stunning model, has been making waves in the fashion industry with her captivating looks and charming personality. In an exclusive interview, Sanam opens up about her journey, passions, and experiences in the world of modeling.

Sanam’s fascination with modeling began at a young age. She would often pose in front of the mirror, admiring her reflection. As she grew older, her passion for modeling only intensified. With the encouragement of photographer Datta Gawade, Sanam took her first steps into the world of professional modeling.

For Sanam, staying physically and mentally fit is crucial. She emphasizes the importance of hydration, a balanced diet, and natural products. Her commitment to a healthy lifestyle is evident in her radiant skin and toned physique.

Apart from modeling, Sanam has a deep passion for travel, exploring new cultures, and trying new foods. She enjoys outdoor activities like hiking and biking, which help her stay grounded and focused.

Sanam’s most memorable modeling experience was an underwater scuba shoot in Karnataka. She recalls the experience as both amazing and challenging. As for future aspirations, Sanam plans to continue modeling and exploring new opportunities in the fashion industry.

Sanam’s journey is a testament to her hard work, dedication, and passion. She hopes to inspire young girls and women to pursue their dreams, just as she has. With her confidence, beauty, and charm, Sanam Sayad is undoubtedly a role model for aspiring models and fashion enthusiasts alike.

Follow Sanam’s journey on social media and get inspired by her stunning looks, captivating personality, and empowering story!