The Newsletter from the Creative Travel Family of Brands
Dear Industry Colleagues,
Welcome to another edition of 'Creatively Yours'.
March brings a refreshing blend of new beginnings and vibrant experiences. With the festival of Holi painting the streets in joyful hues, it's a time to celebrate unity, laughter, and the arrival of spring. The big news this month includes Atmosphere Core’s grand debut in Bhopal, Air India Express's new flight routes enhancing regional connectivity, and Encalm Hospitality’s premium lounge launch at IGI Airport. Plus, Delhi Airport’s Terminal 2 gears up for a major renovation starting April.
In our Cool Location feature, Brij Lakshman Sagar in Rajasthan invites you to experience Rajput grandeur with sustainable luxury. Foodies will love our Iconic Things to Eat spotlight on momos, while our Story of the Month delves into the timeless symbolism of Indian bridal jewellery.
We are delighted to present our 2025 ‘Be our Guest‘ portfolio to our partners. This gives you the opportunity to experience not only India, Nepal and Sri Lanka, but also the legendary services that have made us what we are today. Many will copy us, but there is only one ‘Be our Guest‘.
For personalized training and strategy sessions tailored for travel advisors and tour operators, feel free to reach out to us at knowledge@creative.travel Stay informed with weekly updates from The South Asia Travel Journal.
See details here.
They say, “seeing is believing”.
Can words describe 3.2 million sq. kms. of the Indian subcontinent? Can pictures capture a terrain as diverse as lush green forests, golden deserts and the majestic Himalaya range? Can stories tell you all you want to know about the complex cultures of the Indian people, their languages and dialects, their rituals and traditions? To feel their magic, be touched by her spirituality, experience her intensity or join in her celebrations, you have to be in India.
Maldives-based luxury hotel brand Atmosphere Core has officially launched in India with the opening of Sadar Manzil Heritage by Atmosphere in Bhopal. Inaugurated on February 22, 2025, by Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav, the property is located strategically between Bhopal's Old and New City. Housed in a historic 126-year-old building.
Air India Express launches daily direct flights between Mangaluru and Delhi
Air India Express has launched a daily direct flight service connecting Mangaluru International Airport with New Delhi International Airport, enhancing connectivity between the two cities. The inaugural flight, IX 1552, took off from Mangaluru at 6:40 AM and arrived in Delhi at 9:35 AM on February 1, 2025. This new route complements the evening flights operated by IndiGo, providing passengers with more flexibility and convenience. The service is expected to boost business, leisure, and transit travel while promoting regional economic growth by improving access to the national capital.
Air India Express introduces new Tiruchi-Chennai flight service
Air India Express's new Tiruchirappalli-Chennai flight services will enhance regional connectivity. This new route benefits business and leisure travellers, offering additional travel options for easier access between the two cities. The launch is part of the airline's strategy to expand its network and cater to growing demand.
Air India expands international network for summers
Air India is expanding its international route network for the northern summer to boost capacity to key destinations. The airline is introducing new flights and enhancing existing services, improving connectivity between India and major global markets. This expansion includes launching direct routes and resuming services to popular travel hubs, highlighting Air India's focus on addressing increasing travel demand. With this growth, the airline aims to offer greater convenience to international travellers, benefiting business and leisure passengers.
Encalm Hospitality launches premium lounge at IGI Airport, New Delhi
Encalm Hospitality has introduced a luxurious new lounge in the T1 departures area at IGI Airport, New Delhi, offering passengers a tranquil retreat before their flights. Equipped with modern amenities and comfortable seating, the lounge caters to both business.
Starting in April, Delhi Airport's Terminal 2 will be closed for 4-5 months for significant upgrades. During this time, flight operations will be moved to Terminal 1. Passengers are urged to verify flight details, as airlines will adjust check-in and boarding procedures accordingly. The closure is part of a more extensive infrastructure overhaul to enhance passenger flow, upgrade facilities, and improve overall airport services. While the temporary shift may cause operational disruptions, it promises long-term benefits.
Mercure, part of the Accor group, has made its debut in Nepal with the launch of Mercure Kathmandu Sukedhara Heights on January 15, 2025. The hotel in central Kathmandu features 104 rooms that blend contemporary comfort with traditional Nepali aesthetics, offering stunning city views and the Himalayas. Guests can enjoy an array of facilities.
Ramada by Wyndham Kathmandu Dhumbarahi opens in Nepal
Ramada by Wyndham Kathmandu Dhumbarahi has officially opened its doors, offering a premium stay option in Nepal's capital. Located in Dhumbarahi, the hotel features spacious rooms with modern decor, an international cuisine restaurant, and a fitness centre. Additionally, it offers versatile event spaces for meetings, weddings, and conferences. With easy access to key attractions in Kathmandu, this hotel caters to leisure and business travellers. As part of Wyndham Hotels & Resorts' regional expansion.
Pullman Hotels & Resorts has made its debut in South India with the opening of Pullman Chennai Anna Salai. Located in the heart of Chennai, this luxury hotel offers modern design, spacious rooms, and world-class amenities. Guests can enjoy diverse dining options, including an all-day restaurant, speciality dining.
Alchi Kitchen: Celebrating Ladakhi flavours and empowering women
Alchi Kitchen in Ladakh is an initiative that preserves the region's traditional flavours and empowers local women economically. Run by women from the community, the kitchen offers authentic Ladakhi dishes made with locally sourced ingredients, showcasing the unique culinary heritage of Ladakh. This project helps women develop valuable skills, earn an income, and thrive in the hospitality industry. Alchi Kitchen plays a vital role in preserving Ladakhi cuisine for future generations by keeping ancient recipes alive.
Wyndham unveils 'Grand Fatehsagar Lake' in Udaipur
Wyndham Hotels & Resorts has launched the Grand Fatehsagar Lake in Udaipur, Rajasthan, offering a mix of luxury and Rajasthani charm. The hotel, near the picturesque Fatehsagar Lake, features spacious rooms with stunning lake views and various dining options.
Absolute Hotel Services opens Tiger Claws Resort in Tadoba, Maharashtra
Absolute Hotel Services has unveiled the Tiger Claws Resort in Tadoba, Maharashtra, a luxury retreat catering to nature and wildlife lovers. Situated near the famous Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve, the resort offers a premium experience with comfortable rooms, diverse dining options, and modern amenities.
The International Yoga Festival in Rishikesh, held from 9th to 15th March, celebrated yoga’s ancient practices and their holistic benefits. The week-long festival attracted global participants, offering diverse yoga styles, meditation, and wellness workshops.
Gangaur, celebrated on March 31, is a vibrant festival dedicated to Goddess Gauri, symbolising marital bliss and fertility. Women observe fasting and prayers for their husbands' well-being, while unmarried girls pray for a good spouse. The festival features colourful processions, folk dances, and music, particularly in Rajasthan's cities like Jaipur, Udaipur, and Jodhpur. Decorated idols of Goddess Gauri are paraded through the streets, creating a joyful atmosphere and celebrating the region's cultural traditions.
Eid-Ul-Fitr, observed on March 31 and April 1, marks the end of Ramadan with prayers, feasts, and charity. The celebration starts with a special mosque prayer, followed by family gatherings, gift exchanges, and joyous meals.
Baisakhi, celebrated on April 13, is a harvest festival in Punjab, also commemorating the formation of the Khalsa in 1699 by Guru Gobind Singh Ji. The festival is marked by dances like Bhangra and Gidda, bonfires, and traditional foods. It's a time of gratitude for the new harvest and a celebration of Sikh spiritual significance. Baisakhi brings communities together across Punjab and northern India in joyful celebrations of faith, culture, and prosperity.
Have you ever looked closely at an Indian bride walking into the Mandap, sparkling from head to toe in her wedding jewellery? In India, bridal jewellery isn’t just about looking beautiful…it’s a symbol of heritage, blessings, and new beginnings. When she steps into the wedding ceremony, she’s not just wearing extravagant accessories; she’s wearing precious memories that tell the story of her family, culture, and life ahead.
Step into the enchanting world of Jal Sanjhi Painting, a centuries-old art form revived by a single family in Udaipur. Originating in Jaipur, this exquisite craft boasts a rich history spanning over 200 years, now meticulously preserved by dedicated artisans through generations. Embark on an exclusive Jal Sanjhi Painting Workshop where you’ll unlock the secrets of this mesmerizing artistry, a divine homage to Lord Krishna. Watch in awe as charcoal and mystical ingredients gracefully dance on the water’s surface, forming a floating canvas where vibrant hues blend seamlessly.
A meticulously restored 19th-century hunting lodge of the royal family of Raipur, Brij Lakshman Sagar unfolds across 32 acres of untouched countryside. Here, Rajputana grandeur meets sustainable design, creating an immersive retreat beside a tranquil private lake.
Few street foods have won over India quite like momos. These little pockets of joy, stuffed with minced meat or fresh vegetables, are incredibly satisfying. Whether steamed for a delicate bite, fried for a crispy edge, or pan-seared to perfection, they are almost always served with a fiery red chutney that adds just the right kick. From roadside stalls in the hills to trendy cafés in the city, momos are everywhere, and for good reason.
Born in 1915 in Maharashtra, M. F. Husain began his artistic journey painting Bollywood billboards on the streets of Mumbai. Over time, he became one of India's most celebrated modern artists, known for his bold strokes, vibrant colours, and ability to capture the nation's soul on canvas.
Gujiyas are sweet dumplings made of maida or flour and filled with a delightful khoya and dry fruits mixture and are popularly made in Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh. Deep fried in ghee and dipped in a sugary syrup, this Indian dessert is commonly made during the festival of Holi. The crisp outer layer cracks in the mouth for the sweet filling to take on your senses. Today, there are many versions of the gujiya available with different fillings such as dry fruit gujiya, mawa gujiya and even healthier ones like baked gujiyas, but nothing beats the timeless classic.
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