Tag: international travel

Travel

Air India to Resume Non-Stop Flights to Mainland China; Delhi–Shanghai Route Restarting February 2026

allycaralgoa

Air India has officially announced the resumption of its non-stop operations to mainland China, nearly six years after services were halted. Beginning 1 February 2026, the airline will operate four weekly flights between Delhi and Shanghai (PVG), marking a major milestone in restoring India–China air connectivity.

The flights will be operated using Air India’s modern Boeing 787-8 aircraft, equipped with 18 fully flat beds in Business Class and 238 comfortable seats in Economy Class. Shanghai now becomes the 48th international destination served by the Air India group.

In addition, Air India has revealed plans to launch a Mumbai–Shanghai non-stop service later in 2026, pending regulatory permissions.

A Major Step Forward for India–China Connectivity

The resumption follows new diplomatic agreements that restored suspended air links between the two nations. Air India originally launched non-stop flights to mainland China in October 2000, and this relaunch reflects renewed confidence in business, tourism, trade, and academic exchanges.

Air India CEO & MD Campbell Wilson called the move a symbolic reconnection of two ancient cultures and fast-growing global economies.
He stated:

“This resumption is more than a route launch. It is a bridge between two great, ancient civilisations and modern economic powerhouses. We are happy to reconnect one of the world’s most vital air corridors, enabling travellers to pursue opportunities in business, trade, healthcare, education and culture — with warm Indian hospitality that defines Air India.”

Flight Schedule: Delhi (DEL) – Shanghai (PVG)

Effective 01 February 2026

Flight No.SectorDepartureArrivalDays
AI352Delhi–Shanghai1200 hrs2020 hrsTue, Thu, Fri, Sun
AI351Shanghai–Delhi2200 hrs0315 hrs (+1)Tue, Thu, Fri, Sun

Bookings are now progressively opening across Air India’s channels — website, app, sales offices, contact centre, and travel agents worldwide.

The airline expects that the restored route will help strengthen ties in pharmaceuticals, technology, education, finance, and tourism, contributing to deeper socio-economic exchanges.

Travel

First International Charter Flight Lands at Mopa Airport, Marking Start of Goa’s Peak Tourist Season

Tanisha Cardozo

Goa officially welcomed the 2025–26 year-end travel season with the arrival of its first international charter flight from Novosibirsk, Russia, at Manohar International Airport (Mopa) on October 2. The occasion marks a significant milestone for the state’s tourism industry, reinforcing Goa’s status as a preferred international travel destination.

The arrival was celebrated with a traditional Goan welcome that included folk performances such as the Samayi Dance, Ghodemodni, and Dhangar Dance. A brass band and floral greetings completed the warm reception, showcasing Goa’s hospitality and rich cultural heritage. The dignitaries present included Director of Tourism Shri Kedar Naik, Deputy Director of Tourism Shri Jayesh Kankonkar, Assistant Tourist Officer Smt Chitra Vengurlekar, Senior Vice-President of Concord Exotic Voyages Shri Sheik Ismail, and Vice-President of Minar Group Shri Shubert Reinald Colaco.

This season, Goa will see a significant increase in connectivity from Russia with three new weekly flights from Novosibirsk joining existing routes from Yekaterinburg and Moscow. Aeroflot’s operations have now grown to nine flights a week, reflecting the rising demand for Goa among Russian travellers.

The momentum continues with a second charter flight from Novosibirsk scheduled to arrive on October 3 at 06:00 AM, followed by flights from Yekaterinburg on October 4 and 5, and a large-capacity A330-300 flight from Moscow arriving on October 5. Further enhancing Goa’s global connectivity, direct charter flights from Kazakhstan are set to commence on October 25, 2025.

The influx of international tourists is expected to boost Goa’s hospitality sector and open new avenues for economic growth. It also signifies a shift toward a more diverse and resilient tourism landscape with expanded source markets.

Tourism Minister Shri Rohan A. Khaunte expressed pride in Goa’s preparedness, stating that the state is ready to welcome the world with enhanced infrastructure, immersive experiences, and the warmth of Goan hospitality. Director of Tourism Shri Kedar Naik echoed the sentiment, highlighting how increased air connectivity is creating opportunities for stakeholders across the tourism value chain.

With coordinated efforts from the Department of Tourism and industry players, Goa is all set for a vibrant and impactful tourist season. The arrival of charter flights not only strengthens international ties but also ensures that tourism continues to serve as a vital contributor to the state’s inclusive economic growth.

#TravelwithAllycaral 👒

Goa Tops Travel Charts for Independence Day Long Weekend: MakeMyTrip Insights Reveal

Tanisha Cardozo

As Indians prepare to celebrate the 78th Independence Day, many are also taking advantage of the long weekend to travel, unwind, and reconnect. Travel trends from MakeMyTrip, one of India’s leading travel platforms, show that Goa has emerged as the most sought-after domestic travel destination this year.

The Long Weekend Boost
 With Independence Day falling on a Friday (August 15), many travelers are taking off as early as Wednesday, August 13, effectively giving themselves a 5-day travel window. Rajesh Magow, Co-founder and Group CEO of MakeMyTrip, shared that search and booking activity has significantly increased, making this one of the busiest long weekends of the year.

“Independence Day has emerged as a key travel occasion over the years. This year too, the search and booking trends point to strong intent to travel,” said Magow.

Top Domestic Travel Destinations
 Goa leads the pack, thanks to its beaches, vibrant nightlife, and monsoon charm. Following closely are:

  • Udaipur
  • Jaipur
  • Puri
  • Lonavala
  • Varanasi
  • Coorg
  • Mahabaleshwar
  • Ooty
  • Pondicherry

These destinations offer a mix of culture, heritage, scenic beauty, and short travel times — ideal for weekend travelers.

International Trends: Asia Leads
 For those venturing abroad, nearby international destinations dominate the trend list. The top ten trending international cities include:

  1. Pattaya
  2. Bali
  3. Bangkok
  4. Singapore
  5. Dubai
  6. Phuket
  7. Colombo
  8. Kuala Lumpur
  9. Zurich
  10. London

These cities are popular for their visa accessibility, short flight durations, and diverse experiences.

A New Independence Day Tradition
 Independence Day has gradually become more than a patriotic holiday — it’s evolving into a key travel moment for Indian families, couples, and solo adventurers alike.

Whether it’s a serene hill station, a temple town, or a buzzing coastal city, this long weekend promises movement, memories, and meaningful escapes.

#TravelwithAllycaral 👒

India Rises to 77th on Henley Passport Index 2025: What It Means for Indian Travellers

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India has made a significant leap on the global travel map. According to the newly released Henley Passport Index 2025, India has moved up eight places to rank 77th globally. The index ranks world passports based on the number of destinations their holders can access without a prior visa.

Indian passport holders now enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 59 countries, compared to 57 last year. While only two new countries were added, the jump in ranking reflects improved international diplomatic ties and mobility opportunities.

The Henley Passport Index, based on exclusive data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA), is widely recognized as a benchmark for global mobility. The index considers factors such as visa agreements, bilateral relations, and travel freedom.

🌐 What Changed?

  • New Additions: 2 new destinations added to India’s visa-free/visa-on-arrival list.
  • Improved Ranking: From 85th in 2024 to 77th in 2025.
  • Total Access: 59 countries now open to Indian passport holders without prior visa.

🧳 What It Means for You:

This improved ranking signals better global perception, potential ease for business travel, international education, tourism, and people-to-people ties. However, India still trails behind many Asian counterparts like Japan, Singapore, and South Korea.

While there’s a long way to go to reach the top tiers, this upward move reflects growing opportunities for Indian citizens on the global stage.

#TravelwithAllycaral 👒

Big Travel News: Indian Passport Holders Can Now Visit the Philippines Visa-Free for 14 Days

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In a major boost to travel and tourism, the Philippines has officially opened its doors to Indian passport holders for visa-free entry of up to 14 days, starting this month. This exciting update is set to strengthen ties between the two nations and offer Indian travelers a new, accessible tropical getaway in Southeast Asia.

According to the latest update from the Philippine Bureau of Immigration, Indian citizens can now enjoy visa-free entry for a period of up to 14 days, provided they meet specific requirements.

✅ Eligibility Conditions Include:

  • Holding a valid visa or permanent residency from the U.S., Japan, Australia, Canada, Schengen Area, Singapore, or the UK
  • A passport valid for at least six months beyond the period of stay
  • Proof of onward or return travel
  • No derogatory records or blacklisting

This policy applies to tourism and short business visits and can be extended once for an additional 7 days, bringing the total stay to 21 days.

The Philippines—famous for its pristine beaches, island-hopping adventures, and vibrant culture—has been a rising destination among Indian travelers. However, visa processes in the past often posed a barrier. This new policy removes that friction, giving Indian tourists a seamless opportunity to explore destinations like Boracay, Palawan, Cebu, and Manila.

“This is a game-changer,” said travel consultant Priya Malhotra. “Indian travelers are looking for quick, visa-free escapes, and the Philippines just became a top contender.”

This move reflects growing diplomatic and tourism cooperation between India and the Philippines. It aligns with the Philippines’ efforts to revive tourism post-pandemic and India’s expanding influence in the Asia-Pacific region.

It also brings the Philippines in line with other Southeast Asian nations like Thailand and Indonesia, which already offer relaxed or visa-free entry to Indian tourists.

With direct and connecting flights available from major Indian cities via hubs like Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, and Bangkok, planning your Philippines trip has never been easier.

Whether it’s lounging on white sand beaches, diving in coral reefs, exploring volcanoes, or experiencing Filipino hospitality—your island adventure awaits.

For Indian travelers seeking a quick getaway, this is an invitation to explore the Philippines like never before. So pack your bags, grab your passport—and say “Mabuhay!” to your next visa-free destination. 🌴🇵🇭