The original proposals for this bridge date back to 2020 with an expected completion date of 2028. But, very little progress has been documented since the announcement in Parliament in spring 2023.

At the time, the government’s estimated cost was set at USD 2.7 billion and is expected to be a public-private partnership, with some funding from the African Development Bank.

Sao Paulo, the largest city in Brazil, is still very popular, especially with business visitors. However, most also find time to enjoy its cultural delights, such as the historic Municipal Market, where foreign visitors have been known to splurge on local products and other goods.

The Minister of Tourism of Brazil, Celso Sabino, indicated that his country is full of potential. He is optimistic that with the proper steps, it will attract many more Chinese tourists to Brazil and experience the country’s different foods and lively culture.

With such efforts, Brazil targets a manifold expansion of its tourist industry to new markets and greater cultural exchange.

The atmosphere was charged with energy as Indian travel trade professionals engaged in meaningful dialogues with Oman Tourism officials. The message was clear: Oman is not just a destination; it is a luxurious haven of natural beauty, rich heritage, and extraordinary experiences that promise to leave a lasting impression.
His Excellency (H.E.) Azzan Al Busaidi, Undersecretary of Tourism, Ministry of Heritage and Tourism, Sultanate of Oman, underscored the importance of the Indian market, noting that India ranks as Oman’s second-largest source market. In 2023, Indian visitor numbers soared past 625,000—a remarkable growth of over 70% compared to the previous year. This momentum shows no signs of slowing, with the first five months of 2024 already seeing a 15% increase in arrivals.

With direct flights from more than 10 Indian cities, including Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, and Bengaluru, Oman is more accessible than ever. The short flight duration of under 3.5 hours and over 100 weekly flights operated by premier airlines like Oman Air, Salam Air, Vistara, Indigo, and Air India Express make Oman a convenient and compelling choice for luxury travellers.

Oman offers a wealth of experiences tailoured for the luxury traveller. The roadshow highlighted
Oman’s sun-kissed beaches, where exclusive resorts offer private stretches of sand and personalized
service, as well as its majestic deserts, where visitors can stay in lavish tents under the stars,
surrounded by the tranquillity of the dunes. The rugged mountains provide a stunning backdrop for
luxury eco-lodges that offer both adventure and relaxation.

Attendees were also introduced to Oman’s rich cultural heritage, with tours of historic forts and castles and the enchanting Omani village life. The story of the Land of Frankincense captivated the audience, showcasing Oman’s deep-rooted history and its significance as a cultural crossroads.

Oman is a playground for adventure enthusiasts who crave both excitement and luxury. The roadshow spotlighted activities such as private paragliding sessions, kite surfing on secluded beaches, guided mountain biking trails, and exclusive caving expeditions. Snorkelling in crystal-clear waters and camping in bespoke setups under the stars are just a few of the experiences that Oman offers.

The Ministry of Heritage and Tourism announced plans to further enhance Oman’s appeal in India through residential workshops, consumer promotions, and luxury brand campaigns. These initiatives are designed to elevate Oman’s status as a premier destination and ensure it remains the top choice for Indian travellers seeking a luxurious escape. Oman is not just a destination; it’s an experience of a lifetime. Whether you’re searching for luxury, adventure, culture, or tranquillity, Oman promises to exceed expectations at every turn.

Madhya Pradesh is, without doubt, a treasure house of Tourism Experiences and an “Offbeat Multispecialty Destination of First Choice.” The accelerated change in the tourism scenario took the Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board to commit to the organisation of comprehensive workshops. The extensive workshops showcased the state’s tourism products to bring greater synergy between principal industry stakeholders.

Madhya Pradesh is not only the greenest state in India but also fulfils the status of the ‘Tiger State of India’ with a population of 785 tigers and holds the status of ‘Cheetah State of India.’ It has acquired the reputation of being the cleanest and safest state for tourists visiting India. Astonishingly, Madhya Pradesh has become the first state in India to witness an unprecedented rise in the arrival of tourists in the year 2023 with 112.1 million tourists as compared to 34.1 million tourists in 2022.

An important highlight of the roadshow was Madhya Pradesh’s dynamic scenario in the tourism sector. The state is a perfect blend of historical, cultural, and natural beauty and an emerging spiritual tourism hub. This is evident from the huge numbers flocking to sites like Mahakal Lok in Ujjain and Raja Ram Temple in Orchha, which will soon be developed into the Raja Ram Lok. Besides, the tallest statue of Adi Shankaracharya in India, towering at 108 feet, is attracting tourists from far and wide.

Minister for Tourism, Culture, Religious Trusts, and Endowments Department Shri. Dharmendra Lodhi spoke about the immense importance of road shows in promoting the grandeur of Madhya Pradesh’s tourism on the national level. With this, the Managing Director of the MP Tourism Board and Principal Secretary in the Department of Tourism and Culture, Shri Sheo Shekhar Shukla, highlighted his satisfaction with the event’s turnout and emphasised the point that this event would help give a new dimension to understand the tourism potential of Madhya Pradesh and Gujarat while further strengthening the bond between the two regions.

Madhya Pradesh is soon coming up with a jungle safari, which is set to begin on 1st October 2024. The state is poised to be a leading tourist destination in India, offering unique and enriching experiences based on breathtaking landscapes, giants of history, and vibrant cultural sites.

14 UNESCO Heritage Sites of the State

Madhya Pradesh is currently home to three UNESCO World Heritage Sites- Khajuraho temple complex, Bhimbetka Caves, and Sanchi Stupa. The state continues to strive for more such recognitions with formal entries like Gwalior Fort, Khooni Bhandara of Burhanpur, Rock Art Sites of the Chambal Valley, the Bhojeshwar Mahadev Temple at Bhojpur, the Gond monuments of Ramnagar in Mandla, the historic ensemble of Dhamnar, Group of Monuments at Mandu, the historic ensemble of Orchha, Bhedaghat-Lametaghat in Narmada Valley, Satpura Tiger Reserve, and Chanderi: Iconic Saree Weaving Clusters of India.

Assistant Secretary of Tourism Doug Bourgeois said, “We’re excited to be working with Sartha Global Marketing on sharing all the ways you can Feed Your Soul in Louisiana. India is a wonderful country, home to people who love to experience culture, food, the outdoors, and more. Louisiana is the perfect destination to find those authentic experiences.”

Sheema Vohra, Managing Director of Sartha Global Marketing LLP, added, “We are indeed elated to take this opportunity to promote the Louisiana Office of Tourism in India. With its deep history, rich culture, and vibrant celebrations, Louisiana is an unusual destination that would simply conquer the hearts of all travellers seeking a deeper, richer cultural experience. Bayou State, an addition to all itineraries on the East Coast and the South, offers many attractions and experiences for Indian visitors to soak in.”

Panchatatva Park and Naad Brahm Upavan. Other facilities include a Visitor Centre and a Water Experience Park.
Hasrat Jasmine, the district development officer of Mehsana, said, “The long-term vision is to establish North Gujarat as a major tourist circuit with Dharoi being the focal point. The peripheral attractions will be pilgrimage places like Ambaji, Hatkeshwar Temple, and Vadnagar. This will also generate good revenue and place this area on the cultural map.”.

The project is likely to be completed within two years as the process of land acquisition is already complete by 80% . The authorities are also eyeing a PPP model for hastening the development process. Tourists have already started getting excited about the new facilities and are comparing it to the Statue of Unity.

Spiritual, adventure, and eco-tourism have combined under the banner of Dharoi Dam to turn this area into a formidable economic force in North Gujarat, opening up new vistas for employment opportunities and regional tourism.

Principal Secretary of Tourism and Culture and Managing Director Madhya Pradesh Tourism board Shri Sheo Shekhar Shukla said Madhya Pradesh is committed to responsible tourism and is focussing at the importance of minimizing environmental impact and involving local communities. By collaborating with forest departments, local authorities, and tourism operators, Madhya Pradesh aims to sustain tourism activities even during the park closures (July to September) and generate employment opportunities for local residents.

Here’s a glimpse into all 7 awe-inspiring tiger reserves of Madhya Pradesh:

Bandhavgarh National Park: Boasts a thriving 104 tiger population

Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve spans across districts of Umaria and Katni. Encompassing an area of 1,536.93 square kilometres, the reserve boasts a thriving tiger population of 104 tigers. Bandhavgarh is one of the smallest parks but wildlife-rich and picturesque park having the highest density of tigers in India. There are estimated to be one tiger to every 14 km which offers a thrilling opportunity to spot tigers in their natural environment. A flight from Delhi to Jabalpur takes roughly 2 hours which is followed by a 4 hour drive to the park.

Kanha National Park: A pioneer in conservation initiatives

Kanha Tiger Reserve spanning the districts of Mandla and Balaghat is proudly one of the country’s premier tiger reserves and the state’s largest national park. The reserve encompasses an area of 940 square kilometres and the tiger population is 61. Kanha undoubtedly offers an unforgettable safari experience and spotting the master of camouflage is a thrilling reward estimated with one tiger every 15 km. Interestingly the lush forests of Kanha are believed to have inspired the setting for “The Jungle Book.” Visitors can opt a flight to Jabalpur or reach the park by Balaghat Railway Station or take a bus to Kanha Gate from Balaghat.

Pench Tiger Reserve: More than just a wildlife sanctuary

Pench National Park spans across the districts of Seoni and Chhindwara. Pench National Park is renowned for its thriving tiger population of 61 tigers across an area of 1179.63 square kilometres posing a possibility of tiger tracking every 19 km. Pench Tiger Reserve is a living chapter from Rudyard Kipling’s iconic tale, “The Jungle Book.” The inspiration for the fictional world of Mowgli can be traced directly back to this region.
Veerangana Durgavati Tiger Reserve: Newest reserve at Heart of Incredible India
Madhya Pradesh’s newest tiger reserve aims to conserve tigers and other wildlife within its vast expanse. The 7th protected habitat for big cats in the state is spread across Sagar, Damoh and Narsinghpur districts. Veerangana Durgavati Tiger Reserve is spread across 2339 square kilometres and is estimated to have 15 tigers making it a vital habitat for the endangered species. The Tiger reserve is located approximately 20 kilometers from Bhopal.

Satpura Tiger Reserve: Spot at UNESCO’s tentative list of World Heritage Sites

The Satpura Tiger Reserve stuns visitors with its exquisite natural beauty. It is aptly nicknamed as “Seven Folds,” derived from the Satpura mountain range.The reserve is estimated to have 40 tigers. The Satpura reserve also boasts ancient rock paintings dating back 10,000 years making it a memorable experience. Satpura’s ecological wealth has earned it a well-deserved spot on UNESCO’s tentative list of World Heritage Sites in the Natural category. Fly into Bhopal or Jabalpur, followed by a scenic road trip from either city to conveniently reach the Satpura Tiger Reserve.

Panna Tiger Reserve: Land of Ken River

Panna Tiger Reserve span 1,598.10 sq km spread across Panna and Chhatarpur districts. The reserve is home to 25 tigers. This reserve offers a glimpse at the dynamic dry deciduous forest. The visuals of Ken River are matchless memory during the safari with a flash of sunshine lends it unparalleled beauty. Reach Khajuraho which is the nearest Airport and the Railway station to enjoy a visit to Panna in between 15 October to 15 June for a lifetime memorable wildlife exploration.

Sanjay-Dubri National Park and Tiger Reserve: Haven for wildlife

Sanjay-Dubri Tiger Reserve comprising an Evergreen Sal, Bamboo and mixed forest span an impressive 1,674.5 square kilometers across Sidhi and Shahdol districts is a haven for wildlife. The reserve plays a crucial role in tiger conservation is home to about 5 tigers, 152 species of birds 32 species of mammals, 11 species of reptiles, 03 species of amphibian and many more, 34 species of fresh water fishes. Sanjay National Park which is a part of Sanjay-Dubri Tiger Reserve is the most popular place to visit.

Planning Your Tiger Safari: The best time to visit the tiger reserves is generally between October and June.

More than 1 million tourists visited Al-Mamzar Park; more than 870,000 people visited Mushrif Park, Creek Park — 583,508; Za’abeel Park — 545,335. It was followed by the Quranic Park, which received more than 1.03 million visitors, whereas Dubai Frame was visited by 827,000 people.

These statistics stand mid-year to prove the attractiveness and importance of parks and recreational facilities in Dubai as world-class leisure and tourist spots, according to Dawoud Al Hajri, the Director-General of Dubai Municipality. He added that the Municipality is committed to rendering high-quality services and ultra-modern facilities while considering the function of managing and developing parks as part of its core business.

“The Municipality is keen on providing outstanding services and experiences to support the quality of life and happiness of visitors by providing integrated facilities, managing all related works and activities and arranging recreational events throughout the year. All this will add to our commitment towards enhancing the quality of life in Dubai and its attractiveness and promoting its tourist goals and consolidating its position as one of the world’s most famous destinations,” Al Hajri said.

An initial opening was planned for last year but was delayed due to flooding. Now, the Vermont Agency of Transportation confirms the Lamoille Valley Rail Trail is a four-season, multi-purpose corridor that enormously expands recreational and transportation opportunities around the state.

Specifically, the trail connects to a great many regional and local trail systems, including the Vast snowmobile trail network, Long Trail, Catamount Trail, Velomont, Missisquoi Valley Rail Trail, Hardwick Trails, Three Rivers Bike Path, and Cambridge Greenway. Indeed, the connectivity reaches trails in Canada and thus offers more space to explore.

Vermont hosts other four-season rail trails, including the Missisquoi Valley Rail Trail, which stretches some 42 km through Franklin County. It’s one of the most beautiful rides through villages, farms, forests, and fields that the countryside offers. Reopening the Lamoille Valley Rail Trail will enable major outdoor fun while further supporting Vermont’s commitment to preserving and promoting its natural beauty and heritage.

According to Phillip Jones, Chief Tourism Officer at the Royal Commission for Al-Ula, “The achievement of accreditation through the Destination Marketing Accreditation Programme is a great success for Al-Ula in our drive to set up a world-class, progressive tourism industry and ecosystem. This seals our commitment to the highest standards for our destination, thus building trust with visitors, the community, stakeholders, and our partners.” It’s in participation with Destinations International—a centre of best practice—that we can share our unique approach with the world and demonstrate why Al-Ula, at the present moment, is one of the most innovative and sought-after luxury destinations in the world.

These destination organisations must accredit more than 100 performance standards in the governance, financial, human resource, sales and marketing, stakeholder engagement, and destination development areas to achieve DMAP accreditation. The standards have been prescribed by an independent panel of industry experts and destination organisations’ representatives. They have periodic revisions to keep them relevant in relation to the changing best practices within the industry.

These are not the first recognitions that Al-Ula has received in recent times. The 2024 World Travel Awards awarded Al-Ula the Middle East’s Leading Festival and Event Destination, Saudi Arabia’s Leading Cultural Tourism Project, and the Middle East’s Leading Cultural Tourism Project during May. Last May, the Royal Commission for Al-Ula acquired a five-star rating for organisational excellence from the European Foundation for Quality Management and the Middle East Facility Management Association Excellence Award.

With regional and global honours, Al-Ula continues to further assert its top position as a luxury boutique heritage destination with deep connections to arts and culture, natural beauty, holistic wellness, and exciting adventures.