Category: Travel

Travel

Manohar International Airport Unveils India’s First Ceiling-Suspended Curved Digital Videowall

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral Travel Desk

Manohar International Airport in North Goa has added another landmark to India’s evolving airport media landscape with the launch of a state-of-the-art ceiling-suspended curved digital videowall at its Arrivals area. Introduced by Times OOH, a Times Group company and India’s leading out-of-home advertising player, the installation marks a first-of-its-kind innovation inside an Indian airport, setting new global benchmarks for digital out-of-home advertising.

The distinctive videowall features a unique top-curved design and large-format display, transforming the Arrivals Hall into an immersive visual experience. Designed to deliver cinematic storytelling, the digital installation offers brands a powerful platform to captivate travellers the moment they land, creating memorable first impressions through high-impact visuals.

Strategically positioned head-on at the baggage claim area, the curved videowall ensures maximum dwell time and unmatched visibility, making it an ideal medium for brands targeting premium domestic and international travellers. This launch represents the second iconic media installation by Times OOH at Manohar International Airport, following the record-breaking largest videowall inside an Indian airport located at the Departures terminal, which is certified by the India Book of Records.

Speaking on the launch, Rohit Chopra, Chief Operating Officer, Times OOH, said the new digital innovation reflects the spirit of Goa itself—vibrant, aspirational and leisure-driven. He described the videowall as more than just a screen, calling it a storytelling canvas that allows brands to be seen, remembered and talked about, while signalling the future of digital OOH where technology enhances creativity.

The timing of the launch coincides with Goa’s peak festive and tourist season, a period marked by a surge in both domestic and international arrivals, further amplifying the value of the installation for advertisers. Over the past year, Manohar International Airport has emerged as a preferred hub for brand innovation, hosting multiple first-of-their-kind campaigns and high-impact launches.

Rohit Chopra also acknowledged the role of the airport authorities, highlighting their innovation-first mindset and consistent support in enabling landmark media formats. He noted that Manohar International Airport is among the few airports in the country to achieve such success in a short span, crediting the authorities for fostering an environment where innovation thrives.

Since commencing commercial operations in January 2023, the airport has handled 4.6 million passengers in FY25 and connects to over 19 domestic and six international destinations. Serving as a gateway to Goa’s leisure and luxury tourism ecosystem, the airport offers strong connectivity, premium footfall and high dwell time, especially in the Arrivals area.

With the launch of the ceiling-suspended curved digital videowall, Times OOH, the exclusive advertising partner at Manohar International Airport, further strengthens its position as a pioneer in premium digital out-of-home innovation, seamlessly blending technology and creativity to deliver impactful advertising experiences across India’s most prestigious travel hubs.

Travel

From Kebab to Bibimbap: Air India Refreshes Its Inflight Dining with a Global Gourmet Menu

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral Travel Desk

Air India announces the introduction of a refreshed global inflight menu across its fleet, drawing inspiration from India’s rich culinary traditions while incorporating flavours from international cuisines. The new menu reflects the airline’s focus on enhancing customer experience as part of its ongoing transformation, offering thoughtfully curated meals that cater to diverse tastes and preferences of global travellers.

The menu takes inspiration from India’s culinary landscape, ranging from the royal kitchens of Awadh to the coastal flavours of southern India, while also featuring Pan-Asian dishes, European bistro selections and geo-specific star offerings. It is introduced on several international ex-India routes, including flights from Delhi to London Heathrow, New York, Melbourne, Sydney, Toronto and Dubai, as well as services from Mumbai and Bengaluru to San Francisco and Mumbai to New York. The rollout continues progressively across all international sectors and domestic routes.

Travellers in First Class enjoy gourmet meals with artisanal breads, signature desserts and bespoke wine and champagne pairings. Business Class features multi-course gourmet meals with customisable options and curated beverages, while Premium Economy and Economy cabins receive upgraded meal trays with balanced options, familiar regional flavours and improved presentation. The menu includes signature Indian dishes such as Awadhi Paneer Anjeer Pasanda, Murgh Massalam and South Indian platters, alongside international offerings like Japanese Teppanyaki bowls, Mediterranean tapas and Korean-inspired Bibimbap.

The refreshed menu also introduces Gen Z-inspired desserts, homestyle comfort food options and a wide range of plant-based and special dietary meals, including vegan, gluten-free and allergen-conscious choices. Guests can select from over 18 special meal types, reinforcing Air India’s commitment to inclusivity and personalised dining experiences.

Curated by Chef Sandeep Kalra, who recently joined Air India, the menu reflects both traditional Indian flavours and global culinary trends that resonate with modern travellers. The airline’s cabin crew undergo specialised training to further enhance the onboard dining experience, ensuring attention to detail in service and presentation.

Air India also strengthens its focus on sustainability through responsible sourcing, eco-friendly packaging and waste reduction initiatives. The airline prioritises locally sourced, seasonal ingredients to support farmers and reduce food miles, while adopting compostable utensils, paper meal boxes and reduced single-use plastics. With these initiatives, Air India continues to reimagine inflight dining by combining taste, care and culinary excellence, reinforcing its vision of being a world-class global airline with an Indian heart.

Travel

Goa Crowned ‘Best Romantic Destination’ at Travel + Leisure India’s Best Awards 2025

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral Travel Desk

Goa has been conferred with the Winner – Best Romantic Destination at the prestigious Travel + Leisure India’s Best Awards 2025, further reaffirming its position as one of India’s most admired and loved travel destinations. The award was presented at a distinguished ceremony held at Nandiya Gardens, ITC Maurya, New Delhi, on December 16, 2025. The honour on behalf of the Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, was received by Ms. Swati Prabhu Shastri, currently serving at Goa Sadan on deputation from the Education Department.

This recognition highlights Goa’s timeless appeal, from its scenic coastline and intimate hospitality experiences to its vibrant cultural fabric and seamless balance of luxury with laid-back charm. Over the years, Goa has evolved beyond its beach identity, offering meaningful experiences rooted in heritage, wellness, hinterland exploration, and responsible tourism, making it a preferred destination for couples and travellers alike.

Reacting to the recognition, Hon’ble Minister for Tourism Shri Rohan A. Khaunte described the award as a proud moment for the state, noting that Goa offers far more than picturesque landscapes. He emphasised that the essence of romance in Goa lies in its culture, warmth, authenticity, and strong sense of place, while reiterating the government’s commitment to regenerative tourism that benefits both visitors and local communities.

Director of Tourism Shri Kedar Naik also welcomed the honour, stating that the recognition reflects the consistent efforts of the Department of Tourism, industry stakeholders, and local communities. He highlighted how curated experiences such as heritage stays, wellness retreats, immersive cultural encounters, and responsible tourism initiatives continue to strengthen Goa’s identity while keeping pace with evolving traveller expectations.

Now in its 14th year, the Travel + Leisure India’s Best Awards is a marquee celebration recognising excellence across the travel, tourism, and hospitality sectors. This accolade reinforces Goa’s positioning as a destination that effortlessly blends celebration with serenity, luxury with simplicity, and romance with sustainability. The Department of Tourism expressed its gratitude to Travel + Leisure India, industry partners, and travellers for their continued trust and support, viewing the award as a strong endorsement of Goa’s vision for experience-led, responsible, and regenerative tourism.

Travel

Paris Cancels New Year’s Eve Celebrations on Champs-Élysées Over Security Concerns

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Paris will ring in the New Year without its traditional grand celebrations this year. Authorities in the French capital have officially cancelled the much-anticipated New Year’s Eve music and festivities on the iconic Champs-Élysées, which were scheduled for December 31, 2025.

The decision was taken following heightened security concerns in the city. According to official sources, the cancellation is linked to the growing crisis surrounding illegal migration and the government’s assessment that it cannot adequately guarantee safety during large-scale public gatherings.

France Info reported that Paris police formally requested Mayor Anne Hidalgo to call off the event, warning of potential risks including stampedes, riots, and uncontrolled crowd movements. The annual celebration, which typically attracts hundreds of thousands of locals and tourists, has long been a symbol of Parisian festivity, marked by music, lights, and communal joy.

Authorities stressed that the decision was made in the interest of public safety, despite disappointment among residents and visitors who look forward to celebrating the New Year at one of the world’s most famous avenues. Officials have not announced any alternative public celebrations at this time.

The cancellation highlights the growing challenges faced by major global cities in managing security amid increasing population pressures and large public event

Travel

Passenger Advisory: Multiple Indigo Flights Delayed at Goa Airport on December 15, 2025

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Goa | December 15, 2025: Passengers travelling through Goa International Airport (GOI) experienced multiple flight delays on Monday, December 15, 2025. Airport authorities issued a passenger advisory confirming revised arrival and departure timings for several domestic flights operated by IndiGo and Air India Express.

According to the advisory, IndiGo flight 6E211 operating from Goa (GOI) to Raipur (RPR) has been delayed, with the revised time of departure scheduled at 13:10 hours.

Air India Express flights were also impacted. Flight IX 1108 from Delhi to Goa is now expected to arrive at 11:45 hours, while IX 1109 from Goa to Delhi has a revised departure time of 12:15 hours.

Further delays were reported for Air India Express services later in the day. Flight IX 1339 from Delhi to Goa is scheduled to arrive at 18:10 hours, and IX 1340 from Goa to Delhi will now depart at 18:40 hours.

Airport officials confirmed that a total of 39 flights were scheduled to operate from GOI on December 15, 2025. However, four IndiGo flights were cancelled during the day.

Passengers have been advised to check directly with their respective airlines for the latest updates and to plan their travel accordingly. Authorities continue to monitor the situation and issue timely advisories to ensure passenger convenience and safety.