In conversation with CEO of Zambia Tourism Agency (ZTA), Matongo Matamwandi.

Is India’s hospitality sector truly stepping into its golden decade—or is it racing ahead on uneven ground? At the mid-year mark of 2025, the data tells a story of exuberance: soaring occupancies, investors doubling down on midscale bets, price maturity across brands, average room rates climbing past historic highs, and a market poised to hit USD 281.8 billion.

The order comprises 15 A330neo and 75 A321neo, with the incremental order Avolon’s portfolio comprises 79 A330neos and 264 A321neos.

Asian nations continue to lead the global mobility race. The UK and US have each dropped a place in the global passport rankings since January, continuing a long-term downward trend.

The event will also commemorate HRAWI’s 75th Platinum Jubilee Year.

Top destinations by YoY increase in bookings include Udaipur, Candolim, Lonavala, followed by others.

MakeMyTrip announced its entry into the global experiences space with the launch of a tours and attractions booking platform, giving Indian travellers access to over 200,000 bookable activities across 1100 cities in 130 countries worldwide.

Kamat Hotels India Ltd (KHIL) is accelerating its expansion in Gujarat after establishing The Orchid Hotel in Jamnagar, the group is now set to launch two new properties under its mid-market brand IRA by Orchid Hotels in Dwarka and Bhavnagar within this financial year.

A rebound to 8.1% growth is projected for 2026, while long-term forecasts remain clouded by geopolitical and economic volatility. The GBTA report also shows that the spending is projected to grow in 2027 by 6.4% and 6.3% in 2028.

The Thailand government has approved a 4.5-billion-Baht budget for tourism to drive 22 strategic initiatives.