US tightens business, tourism visa renewal rules, wait to get longer

NEW DELHI: Indian applicants who are in the process of renewing their American B1/B2 (business/tourism) visas are currently facing extended wait times. This change comes as the US government has reverted to its pre-Covid policy concerning visa renewals. Under the new rule, travelers can renew their visas without the necessity of an in-person interview only if their previous visa is still valid or has expired within the last 12 months.

In November 2022, during a peak period when B1/B2 visa interview wait times in India exceeded a staggering 999 days—almost three years—the US had temporarily extended the eligibility for renewal to 48 months. Although these wait times have seen some reduction, they are still considerable, with current delays averaging over 440 days in major cities such as New Delhi and Mumbai, 436 days in Chennai, 429 in Hyderabad, and 415 in Kolkata.

As more applicants now find themselves needing in-person interviews, it is anticipated that the backlog will continue to increase. To make matters worse, the US embassy has yet to announce any additional measures to mitigate this growing situation. Despite a record number of Indian travelers visiting the US in 2023, surpassing 1.7 million and exceeding pre-pandemic levels, the travel industry's growth appears to be hampered by two significant challenges: long visa wait times and limited direct flight options stemming from US airlines' avoidance of Russian airspace. Notably, India has now emerged as the second-largest source of international visitors to the US, only behind the UK.

160 stalls from eight States at Travel and Tourism Fair Bengaluru

The Travel and Tourism Fair (TTF) Bengaluru 2025, a prominent travel trade show, commenced on Thursday and will run until February 15. This year, around 160 stalls have been set up, showcasing offerings from eight different states across India, as well as participants from two international countries. Salma K. Fahim, the principal secretary of the Tourism Department, highlighted the diverse representation of travel stakeholders including travel agents and adventure sports operators from states like Telangana, Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, and Goa.

In addition to the Indian states, the fair is also featuring international stalls from Nepal and Bhutan, along with destination management companies from various locations including Africa. This event serves as an exceptional platform for buyers and sellers of tour packages to connect and collaborate.

The organisers emphasized that Bengaluru’s established status as the Silicon Valley of India, alongside its vibrant scene for corporate travel, destination weddings, and affluent travelers, positions TTF Bengaluru 2025 as a significant player in the travel industry landscape, rivaling major markets such as Mumbai, Delhi, and Gujarat.

Notably, the first half of this three-day exhibition will be exclusive to business-to-business visitors, while the latter half offers travel enthusiasts the chance to explore new destinations, book flights, and secure attractive travel deals.

Tourist influx continues as Munnar records -1°C again

Chilly Attraction: Munnar Experiences Record Low Temperatures

On Thursday morning, the scenic hill station of Munnar reached its coldest temperature of the season at a brisk -1°C, recorded at Chenduvarai, near Idukki. This frigid temperature mirrors last Saturday's readings, marking a significant chilly period extending even into the second week of February. The frosty air has led to a stunning display of white frost covering the valleys and rolling hills of vibrant tea plantations.

This unusual cold snap has captivated tourists, prompting many to visit Munnar, drawn by the crisp climate that typically heralds a slowdown in tourist numbers after early January. A local tourism stakeholder noted, “Normally after the first week of January, Munnar witnesses a lull in tourist arrivals. But the chilly weather is a huge attraction for tourists.”

According to the United Planters Association of South India (Upasi), other areas near Munnar also reported significant drops in temperature: Devikulam at 1°C, Silent Valley at 2°C, and Sevenmalai and Upasi Nallathanni at 3°C, while R&D Mattupetty recorded a cool 4°C.

However, the influx of visitors has also led to heavy vehicular congestion. As noted by Nayanathara N.G., who traveled from Thrissur, traffic jams became a major hindrance to enjoyment. She recounted her frustrating experience spent in long queues near the Mattupetty dam, exacerbated by a lack of traffic control. “We were trapped for around an hour near the narrow bridge over the dam,” she said, illustrating the challenges both visitors and local traffic management face during this peak season.

Forest department begins work on tourism development initiative in Pachamalai

The Forest Department is actively working on constructing a new approach road to the stunning Koraiyar Falls located in Pachamalai, Tiruchi district, aimed at enhancing accessibility for visitors. This initiative forms part of a broader tourism development project, which is a collaboration between the Forest, Tourism, and Rural Development departments. The project has received approval with an estimated budget of about ₹4 crore, funded under the Tamil Nadu Innovation Initiatives.

Among the various components of this project, the creation of essential infrastructure at both Koraiyar and Mangalam falls is a highlight. These waterfalls naturally attract significant water flow during the monsoon season, thereby increasing their appeal as tourist destinations.

Koraiyar Falls is located approximately 40 km away from Thuraiyur, accessible through a series of villages including Adivaram, Keerambur, and Manalodai, among others. Despite a two-kilometer road that was built a few years ago, visitors previously faced challenges due to a rugged stretch of about 800 meters lacking a proper pathway. Fortunately, the Forest Department has stepped in to rectify this, now constructing a suitable pathway that promises a smoother journey for guests eager to experience the falls.

Additionally, plans are in place for further developments at the Mangalam Falls, another charming yet lesser-known picnic spot located about 14 km away from Top Sengattupatti. This location is also reachable by road from Tiruchi through Thuraiyur and Uppilliyapuram, enhancing the overall tourism potential for the area.

Santorini fears for summer tourist season as earthquakes hit island

February signals the unofficial onset of the tourism season in the stunning Greek island of Santorini, as it prepares to welcome the first cruise ships and the Easter holidays approach. However, the island has been rocked by a series of earthquakes since January, leaving many experts uncertain about when they might conclude. This seismic activity has already led to the cancellation of at least one cruise, raising concerns that the island's crucial tourism sector could face a challenging year ahead.

Anticipating the effects of these tremors, Antonis Pagonis, president of Greece's Association of Hoteliers, noted, "In the past two days, we have seen a drop in bookings, but we hope this will be short-lived." Even if tourists choose to visit, there are growing worries that hotels may struggle to find sufficient staff to cater to their needs during the busy summer season. Santorini, with a permanent population of just over 15,000, typically accommodates tens of thousands of tourists daily during peaks, relying heavily on seasonal workers from other parts of Greece and abroad.

Some potential workers are reconsidering their plans due to the uncertainty surrounding the tourist influx. Manos, a bartender who has spent the last five summers on the island, expressed his concerns, saying, "I'm worried there won't be enough tourists. If the season is weak, I might not make as much money or they might not need me for the whole summer. I can't take that risk." Consequently, he has accepted a job in Corfu instead of returning to Santorini.

As summer approaches, construction work is also essential to refurbish hotels, but this has come to a halt due to safety worries related to the earthquakes. Hoteliers are urging the government for support to sustain current employees until they can commence work again. Mr. Pagonis stated that they have submitted proposals aimed at bolstering both the existing workforce and potential summer employees, and while the government has shown a positive response, the actual implementation of these measures is still uncertain.

Greek authorities have swiftly addressed the earthquake risks by deploying rescue teams and declaring a state of emergency for expedited aid. However, some industry players advocate for essential infrastructure investments to secure Santorini’s long-term viability. Margarita Karamolegkou, a hotel owner, pointed out that the island's worker-to-visitor ratio peaks dramatically during the season, underscoring the need for improvements such as a new port. She emphasized that stricter safety regulations must also apply to private rental properties, which may not adhere to the same standards as established hotels.

Generating approximately 2.5% of Greece's GDP and an estimated €5.9 billion annually, the economic significance of Santorini cannot be overstated. While there haven't been significant cancellations yet, the industry is feeling the pinch of declining bookings, with professionals warning that continued earthquake activity could lead to severe repercussions for businesses. During a recent visit, Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis stressed the importance of preserving Santorini’s esteemed reputation as a tourist destination, vowing to ensure 2025 remains a banner year for tourism.

Despite the looming challenges, Ms. Karamolegkou is resolute, stating, "We have been in this business for decades, operating at the highest level. I am confident that even with fewer staff, our services will remain exceptional."

9 Best Travel Adapters (2025), Tested and Reviewed

Exploring the Best Travel Adapters

If you're a frequent traveler, having the right travel adapter can be a game-changer. With various options available on the market, this guide highlights several travel adapters that have been tested and appreciated, though they didn't make the top tier for one reason or another.

Epicka Universal Travel Adapter - $23: This adapter has held the title of our budget pick for some time. It features a versatile sliding plug design that covers 150 countries and includes four USB-A ports along with a 15-watt USB-C port. Additionally, it comes with an 8-amp fuse and a spare, backed by certifications from RoHS, CE, and FCC, ensuring quality and safety.

Ceptics 65W World Travel Adapter - $40: This flexible adapter offers slide-on plugs for types A, B, C, E/F, G, and I. It can connect directly to the outlet or be used with an optional 5-foot cable, which makes it convenient. The brick features one grounded US outlet, one non-grounded outlet, a 30-watt USB-A port, and two impressive USB-C ports (65 and 33 watts).

Masterplug Visitor to UK Travel Adaptor (3 Pack) - £12: Ideal for visitors to the UK, this affordable trio of adapters accepts plugs from Europe, America, Australia, and Asia. Each adapter is equipped with a 13-amp fuse and works seamlessly for travelers who may have forgotten to pack a proper adapter.

Anker European Travel Plug Adapter - $16: Known for their portable chargers, Anker also excels in travel adapters. This model plugs into most European outlets, providing a grounded US outlet along with a USB-A and two USB-C ports. It's important to note, however, that the combined output for the three USB ports is capped at 15 watts, making it suitable mainly for overnight charging, although safety features like temperature and overload protection are commendable.

Ceptics Travel Power Strip - $35: This compact power strip is similar to the World Travel Adapter Kit, featuring two grounded US outlets with one USB-A and one USB-C port. It connects via a cable to an interchangeable plug head offering compatibility with Type A, B, C, E/F, G, and I adapters. While the adapter switches can be a bit stiff, its overall performance is reliable.

Special train to Kumbh Mela from Mysuru

Special Trains Launched for Kumbh Mela

In response to the high influx of travelers during the ongoing Kumbh Mela, the Railway Board has announced the operation of special express trains, specifically Train No. 06217/06218, connecting Mysuru and Tundla, Uttar Pradesh. This initiative aims to ease the congestion and provide a more convenient travel option for the attendees.

According to an official release, the Mysuru-Tundla Special Express (Train No. 06217) is scheduled to depart from Mysuru at 9:40 PM on February 17 (Monday), and it will reach Tundla by 9:30 AM on February 20 (Thursday). In its return journey, the Tundla-Mysuru Special Express (Train No. 06218) will leave Tundla at 11:30 AM on February 21 (Friday) and is expected to arrive back in Mysuru by 10:00 PM on February 23 (Sunday).

This special train service will make stops at several key stations along the route, including Mandya, KSR Bengaluru, Dharwad, and Pune, among others. Comprising a total of **17 coaches**, the train will feature amenities such as three AC three-tier coaches, ten sleeper coaches, two general second class coaches, and two SLR/D coaches, ensuring comfort for various types of passengers.

For further details regarding train schedules or ticket bookings, travelers are encouraged to visit the official Indian Railways website or contact the helpline at 139.

Kerala sees over 2.22 crore tourists in 2024: Riyas

Kerala's tourism industry is experiencing a remarkable revival, welcoming 2.22 crore tourists in 2024. This impressive figure represents a 21% increase compared to the pre-pandemic levels, showcasing the state's resilience and visitor appeal. Minister for Tourism and Public Works, P. A. Mohamed Riyas, presented these statistics during the State Assembly's Question Hour, highlighting the significant growth in tourist inflows over recent years.

To cater to the growing number of visitors, the Kerala government is set to implement the K-Homes project, which will facilitate online bookings for stays in private accommodations. By utilizing unoccupied homes in proximity to popular tourist destinations, this initiative aims to enhance the state's hospitality sector. The minister noted that Kerala already boasts a wide range of five-star hotels as well as Government Rest Houses, ensuring that tourists can find both luxury and affordable options.

The K-Homes project will initially focus on areas within a 10 km radius of key destinations like Kovalam, Kumarakom, Munnar, and Fort Kochi. Announced as part of the 2025-26 state budget, this venture is set to enrich the tourist experience by providing comfortable accommodations while also allowing visitors to immerse themselves in local culture and cuisine.

TGSRTC’s new bus service from JBS to Airport passes through old city

The Telangana State Road Transport Corporation (TSRTC) has launched an exciting new Pushpak bus service that connects the Jubilee Bus Station (JBS) in Secunderabad to the Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (RGIA) situated in Shamshabad. This service officially commenced on February 12, 2025, and it aims to enhance the accessibility and convenience for passengers traveling to and from the airport.

One of the notable features of this service is its frequency, with buses operational every hour. What makes this route particularly unique is that it travels through the bustling old city, allowing passengers to experience a slice of local culture while en route to their destination. The bus will navigate various significant areas, including Secunderabad Railway Station, Ranigunj, Secretariat, Ravindra Bharati, and several others, before reaching RGIA.

For travelers returning from the airport, the bus service will follow a similarly efficient route, ensuring a smooth journey back to the city. The first bus from the Secunderabad Railway Station is set to depart at 00:55 hours, while the first bus leaving RGIA will commence its journey at 00:50 hours.

The 5 Best Travel Pillows (2025), Tested and Reviewed

Your Ultimate Guide to Travel Pillows

Napping on the go can be extremely challenging, especially during air travel. However, selecting the right travel pillow can make a world of difference. In this article, we highlight some of the best travel pillows, focusing on neck support, comfort, and durability—all crucial elements for a good nap while jet-setting.

Best for Most People: Travelrest Nest Ultimate Travel Pillow
The Travelrest Nest Pillow is nearly flawless. Its flat back is designed with grippy dots, making it ideal for travel whether you're on a bus or in a car. It features a hook-and-loop fastener that supports your head and chin, particularly beneficial for side sleepers. Constructed from soft microfiber, it’s both comfortable and practical. Plus, the cover is removable and washable, and it comes with a suitcase-friendly stuff sack. Minor drawback? The stuff sack lacks an attachment point, posing a bit of a challenge for storage.

Most Luxurious: Honeydew Sleep The Scrumptious Travel Pillow
This pillow stands out for its luxurious comfort. It’s thick and supportive, resembling a mini version of your favorite bed pillow. While it’s bulky when packed, the actual sleeping experience is close to divine, making it perfect for camping trips or hotel stays where you find regular pillows lacking. With a medium-firm feel, it’s great for anyone who prefers a bit more support while sleeping.

Comfort Over Looks: Trtl Neck Pillow
Although visually unappealing, the Trtl Neck Pillow rivals its competitors in comfort. This scarf-like pillow wraps around your neck, providing sturdy head support through a built-in frame. Despite its bulk, it’s effective at preventing neck pain, making it ideal for side sleepers or anxious flyers. However, it clashes with over-ear headphones, so keep that in mind when traveling.

Best Blanket-Pillow Combination: Coalatree Puffy Kachula Adventure Blanket
Primarily designed for outdoor use, the Coalatree Puffy Kachula can convert into a travel pillow, making it a two-in-one purchase. While it may not outperform traditional travel pillows, its versatility as both a blanket and a pillow is perfect for adventurers. The zippers are durable, and once you get the stuffing right, it becomes quite comfortable.

Budget-Friendly Pick: Cabeau Evolution Earth Neck Pillow
For those seeking comfort without a hefty price tag, the Cabeau Evolution Earth Neck Pillow fits the bill. Made from recycled materials, this pillow is firm yet comfy, coming equipped with a unique chin strap feature to prevent your head from bobbing forward. Though it has some usability issues, many users report waking up refreshed after a nap.

Choosing the right travel pillow hinges on understanding your sleeping style and comfort preferences. With options ranging from luxurious to budget-friendly, there’s a travel pillow that can help turn travel time into nap time.

Uttrakhand CM Dhami launches Destination Tehri Calendar 2025

Destination Tehri Calendar 2025 Unveiled to Boost Winter Tourism

In an exciting development for adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami launched the Destination Tehri Calendar 2025 today, highlighting the theme of Winter Tourism. This initiative underscores Tehri’s potential as a premier winter destination, showcasing its rich blend of adventure, stunning scenic landscapes, and spiritual landmarks. Developed by the District Administration of Tehri Garhwal in collaboration with Uttarakhand Tourism and The Times of India, the calendar aims to draw attention to the winter offerings Tehri has to offer.

The launch event took place at the majestic Tehri Dam, where various activities available during the winter season were showcased. From exhilarating adventure sports to tranquil spiritual retreats, Tehri has emerged as a go-to destination for travelers looking to immerse themselves in Uttarakhand's winter beauty. The calendar features a diverse array of winter attractions, including the serene Tehri Lake, prominent for its water sports, rugged hills perfect for trekking and mountaineering, and a rich religious heritage that draws pilgrims year-round.

The appeal of adventure sports like paragliding, kayaking, and trekking on snow-capped peaks is also highlighted, inviting thrill-seekers to explore Tehri's natural wonders. Additionally, the calendar sheds light on some lesser-known yet stunning locations that present breathtaking views and fascinating flora and fauna, establishing Tehri as a must-visit destination this winter.

During the launch, Chief Minister Dhami emphasized Tehri's potential as a hub for adventure tourism, stating, “Tehri has always been a treasure trove of natural beauty and cultural richness. We are committed to supporting infrastructure development and promoting sustainable tourism in the region.” He expressed confidence that Tehri's varied activities and picturesque landscapes will make it one of India's most sought-after adventure destinations, thereby boosting local economies and creating job opportunities for the youth.

District Magistrate Mayur Dixit reinforced this vision by detailing the district administration's endeavors to promote tourism, asserting, “With its unique blend of adventure, spirituality, and stunning natural beauty, Tehri boasts immense potential to become a year-round tourist destination.” He mentioned ongoing efforts to enhance tourism infrastructure to ensure a smooth experience for visitors.

Tourism Secretary Sachin Kurve received the collaboration of the Destination Tehri Calendar from a TOI official at the Secretariat, praising its focus on the various aspects of Tehri tourism. He remarked on Tehri's potential to establish itself as a global adventure hub, highlighting the annual Acro Festival that attracts players and tourists from across the nation.

The launch attracted key officials from the Uttarakhand tourism department, local leaders, and tourism experts, all united in their enthusiasm for the region's blossoming tourism potential.

Alliance Air launches direct flights to Prayagraj for Maha Kumbh Mela

Alliance Air is set to launch direct flights connecting Hyderabad and Prayagraj from February 11 to February 25, 2025, catering specifically to the influx of pilgrims attending the Maha Kumbh Mela. This newly introduced service will operate thrice a week on Monday, Tuesday, and Friday.

Passengers can expect convenience with flights scheduled to leave from Hyderabad's Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (RGIA) at 9:35 a.m. on Mondays and Fridays, arriving in Prayagraj at 12:15 p.m.. The return journey from Prayagraj will commence at 12:40 p.m., bringing travelers back to Hyderabad by 3:20 p.m.. On Tuesdays, the schedule shifts a bit later with the flight departing Hyderabad at 2:20 p.m., landing in Prayagraj by 5:00 p.m., and returning at 5:25 p.m. to reach Hyderabad by 8:05 p.m..

This initiative by Alliance Air highlights the airline's effort to facilitate travel during one of the largest religious gatherings in the world, ensuring pilgrims can embark on their spiritual journey with ease.

Why is this Malayali YouTuber digging wells in Africa?

Travel Vlogger Muhammed Dilshad's Mission to Build Wells in Africa

Muhammed Dilshad, a 29-year-old travel vlogger from Chelambra, Malappuram, transformed his life through his passion for travel. His journey began in 2019 with a Royal Enfield bike trip to Kashmir, which eventually led to the creation of his YouTube channel, YathraToday, that has amassed over 907K subscribers and 153 million views. What started as a personal travel journal has since evolved into a platform that highlights his remarkable adventures.

Following the pandemic and a disrupted trip to South Asia, Dilshad decided to traverse through Africa on his bike in 2021. During this ambitious journey, he explored 14 countries and experienced harsh realities, such as witnessing locals trek long distances for water. Feeling moved by their struggles, he made a promise to return—equipped with a 4x4 vehicle—to dig wells for those in need. Fast forward to 2023, he has constructed 14 wells across Africa, marking a remarkable change in his travels.

On his recent journey across countries such as Kenya, Tanzania, Zambia, and Mozambique, Dilshad undertook significant projects, including the construction of water sources. Notably, in June 2024, he dug a well in Mombasa, Kenya after witnessing the dire conditions of locals collecting dirty water. The well, built with the help of locals, cost about ₹10,000. One of Dilshad's proudest achievements was the well built at a government school in Tanzania, which took 25 days to complete and eliminated the need for students to walk 1.5 kilometers to collect water. The overwhelming gratitude of the children left a lasting impression on him.

Aside from his noble contributions, Dilshad faced bureaucratic challenges, including an encounter with Tanzanian emigration authorities who questioned his intentions behind constructing a well at a government school. Despite needing sponsorship to fund his travels and sustaining costs, he has shown resilience by opting for a jeep for his journey. This not only helps save costs but also provides more comfort and stability compared to traveling on a bike.

Looking ahead, Muhammed Dilshad plans to continue his mission, traveling to Uganda to dig five more wells, with a goal to cover all of Africa by June. Following that, he intends to embark on a journey through Europe, highlighting both his adventurous spirit and charitable endeavors.

UK family share nightmare of bloodstained, sex toy-filled holiday rental

A family recently arrived at their rented holiday home in Northern Ireland, eager for a week’s escape, only to be met with a shocking scene. Rather than a welcoming environment, Paul Norris (a pseudonym for privacy) and his family found bloodstained furniture, a room cluttered with sex toys, and unsecured medication scattered throughout the house. This shocking discovery turned what should have been a joyful holiday into a nightmare, especially with four young children in tow.

The situation unfolded dramatically when Norris' five-year-old son unwittingly opened a bedside cabinet revealing an array of adult items alongside open medication. Alarmed, Norris quickly moved the children to the kitchen, where they stumbled upon an open bottle of nicotine vape liquid on the countertop. Further searching revealed even more disturbing items like ropes, handcuffs, penis enlargers, and lubricants, all amidst soiled upholstery and moldy food. It was evident that the house had not been cleaned properly prior to their arrival.

In their bewilderment, the family reached out to Vrbo, the booking platform they used, sharing photographic evidence of the distressing findings. Unfortunately, the response was far from reassuring. A customer service agent, in a recorded conversation that later came to light, claimed the health and safety issues were merely “minor” and suggested that Norris address the matter with the host instead of receiving any immediate assistance.

Upon contacting the host, Norris faced further disappointment — he was warned that if he pursued a refund, he could be accused of damaging the property. The host claimed he’d been unable to clean the house due to a personal disturbance with the police after his dog was shot. Eventually, Vrbo suggested hotel accommodation while the house was cleaned, but Norris opted for a more secure solution and booked a nearby Airbnb, spending an additional £2,000.

Weeks later, Vrbo eventually refunded the family's original booking, but promised compensation was notably absent. Moreover, Norris expressed frustration over Vrbo's refusal to allow his review of the incident while the host was permitted to leave a negative rating. He recounted feeling trapped by the situation and the lack of support from the company, stating, “The experience completely ruined our trip.”

Following inquiries from the Guardian, Vrbo re-evaluated the situation and offered £1,000 in compensation, apologizing for the inconvenience caused. A spokesperson confirmed that they take the health and safety of guests seriously and stated that the case was under further investigation.

SCR carried 1.3 lakh pilgrims to Maha Kumbh till date

In an impressive logistical operation, South Central Railway (SCR) is currently managing a total of 140 trains that either originate or terminate within the zone. Additionally, 39 trains are facilitating pilgrim traffic, passing through various locations as part of the preparations for the ongoing Maha Kumbh 2025 event.

Advance bookings for these special trains have reached full capacity, with an average occupancy of 149%. As reported on Monday, February 10, around 1.3 lakh passengers utilized the reserved accommodations to travel on these special services. A total of 179 trains have been strategically planned for operation from January through March, primarily via key stations such as Prayagraj Chheoki, Prayagraj, and Varanasi.

Some important destinations served include Gaya, Patna, Azamgarh, Banaras, Gomatinagar (Lucknow), Danapur, and Raxaul. These special trains are being curated from numerous stations including Secunderabad, Charlapalli, Moula-Ali, Guntur, Vijayawada, Kakinada, Narsapur, Nanded, Aurangabad, Tirupati, Bidar, Vikarabad, and Machilipatnam. Moreover, there are provisions to operate four additional special trains if demand continues to soar.

General Manager Arun Kumar Jain indicated that the influx of pilgrims is being closely monitored from war rooms established at Rail Bhavan in New Delhi, as well as at the zonal headquarters of North Central Railway and divisional headquarters in Prayagraj and Lucknow. The railway department is poised to facilitate the massive transport of over 13,000 trains during the Kumbh Mela, comprising approximately 3,100 special trains and 10,000 regular services.

On the day of Mauni Amavasya, the Prayagraj division notably operated more than 150 special trains, achieving a new record. To enhance passenger experience, color-coded tickets and extra shelter areas have been introduced to streamline the boarding and deboarding processes, ensuring smooth transit for all attendees.

Nagapattinam-Kankesanthurai ferry service to resume from February 12

The much-anticipated passenger ferry service between Nagapattinam in India and Kankesanthurai in Sri Lanka is scheduled to resume operations on February 12. This popular service had previously been suspended due to unfavorable weather conditions. Managed by Subham Ferry Services, a subsidiary of the Subham Group, the ferry will run six days a week, with Tuesdays excluded from the schedule.

Passengers can conveniently book their tickets through the official website www.sailsubham.com. In a recent statement to The Hindu, Sundararaj Ponnusamy, the Chairman and Managing Director of Subham Group, announced the introduction of new travel packages designed specifically for middle-class travelers. These packages include options for two-night, three-day stays at selected destinations, as well as comprehensive Ramayana Yatra packages that span various lengths, from five nights and six days to shorter options.

In an effort to lower costs, the two-way fare has been significantly reduced from ₹9,700 to ₹8,500, making the service more accessible to a wider audience. Passengers will also benefit from a revision in baggage policies—each person is allowed to carry up to 10 kg of luggage for free, and the overall baggage limit has increased from 50 kg to 70 kg with an allowance of 23 kg at no extra charge. Enhanced onboard facilities have also been introduced, including newly structured toilets, expanded snack options, as well as fresh milk, coffee, tea, and cool drinks being offered.

Additionally, a duty-free shop will make its debut on the ferry, allowing passengers to purchase goods at discounted prices. Launched in August of last year, the ferry service initially received a warm welcome from travelers on both sides of the Palk Strait but was temporarily halted due to disruptions caused by the monsoon.

Vande Bharat towards Visakhapatnam to halt at Eluru station

Great news for travelers! The Secunderabad – Visakhapatnam – Secunderabad Vande Bharat Express trains will now make an additional stop for one minute at Eluru Station starting from February 25. This initiative, announced by the South Central Railway (SCR), allows passengers more convenient travel options between these major stations.

The service update includes a scheduled halt for Train No. 20707/20708. Specifically, the train departing from Secunderabad will stop at Eluru at 9:49 a.m., while the train heading from Visakhapatnam will pause at 5:44 p.m.. This adjustment will be in place for a duration of six months, ensuring that more travelers can benefit from this added convenience.

Bo-Kaap: the candy-coloured corner of Cape Town facing tourism v heritage dilemma

After the iconic Table Mountain, the vibrant Bo-Kaap neighborhood has emerged as one of Cape Town's most recognizable landmarks, becoming a must-visit for tourists and a favorite spot for Instagram enthusiasts. However, many local residents are voicing their frustrations about the rise in tourist activity; they are particularly concerned about the congestion caused by tour buses, the influx of visitors blocking streets for photos, and the growth of tourism businesses owned by outsiders. These changes raise fears that gentrification is encroaching upon the area.

Cape Town has become increasingly appealing to digital nomads and affluent Europeans seeking refuge from winter, resulting in a steady increase in tourism that, while not yet surpassing the pre-pandemic numbers from 2019, continues to rise. In December alone, over 160,000 foreign tourists arrived, marking a 3.7% increase compared to the previous year.

In November, residents organized a protest outside the Bo-Kaap Museum, an important landmark within the district, carrying placards with slogans like “No buses in Bo-Kaap” and “Stop exploiting Bo-Kaap.” Osman Shaboodien, chair of the Bo-Kaap Civic and Ratepayers Association, expressed the community's concerns by stating, “Tourism has become an attraction in Bo-Kaap, but… it brings little monetary benefit.” He highlighted issues related to over-tourism, such as traffic congestion and the inadequacy of narrow streets for accommodating large buses.

Bo-Kaap is not just known for its colorful houses but also for its deep historical significance. Established in the 1760s, it was inhabited by the descendants of enslaved Muslim people brought from Southeast Asia by the Dutch. Even though efforts to preserve the area during apartheid succeeded in keeping it from being razed, new challenges have emerged, such as fears that incoming residents will lodge noise complaints against the area’s calls to prayer.

Preservation efforts are being spearheaded by local residents like Zaki Harris, a tour guide in the area. He aims to maintain the cultural heritage of Bo-Kaap in the face of gentrification, advocating for better education of external tour guides. Meanwhile, the local tourism economy must integrate residents so they can benefit financially from the influx of visitors.

While some residents, such as Nurahn Essop, have adjusted their businesses to capitalize on tourism, many worry about their long-term future as property values rise and the essence of their neighborhood changes. The nostalgia for a vibrant community coupled with growing concerns for its future reflects the ongoing tension between tourism and local identity.

The Recombobulation Area

Traveling during the holiday season can often be a daunting experience, particularly when navigating through security checkpoints. While these checkpoints are a necessary measure, they can quickly become sources of stress and anxiety — especially when you've got mere minutes to reach your gate and find yourself fumbling with laced shoes.

Recognizing this challenge, Barry Bateman, the former director of Milwaukee's Mitchell Airport, took a creative approach 15 years ago. He coined the term “recombobulate,” aiming to capture the much-needed process travelers undergo after the chaotic security checks. Following the ordeal of emptying pockets, placing laptops in separate bins, stepping through a futuristic scanner, and anxiously awaiting the fate of personal belongings, it became clear that travelers required a designated space to regain their composure.

In 2008, Bateman made a significant move by introducing the concept of “Recombobulation Areas” complete with playful signage, giving travelers a place to regroup and collect themselves after security checks. His foresight gained traction, and in 2009, the American Dialect Society even recognized “recombobulation” as the most creative word of the year. Not only did it ultimately make its way into dictionaries, but the signs have also become a charming feature of Milwaukee Airport's culture.

According to Harold Mester, public relations manager at the airport, the signs are meant to bring a smile to travelers' faces. They have evolved into a unique representation of the city's character, akin to other local quirks like Bloody Mary chasers or the mythical Milverine. The relevance of these signs extends beyond the airport; they have inspired an online column, merchandise, and have even been featured at local festivals.

What makes the “Recombobulation Area” signs particularly delightful is their ability to inject humor into a typically serious environment. Airports can often feel daunting and emotional, yet these signs provide a much-needed sense of levity, helping to ease the travel experience. Mester encapsulates this ethos perfectly by stating, “We want people to feel comfortable – even have fun here,” underscoring the airport's commitment to creating a positive atmosphere for travelers.

KSRTC launches double-decker bus for tourists in Munnar

New Buses Enhance Tourism in Munnar

The Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) is set to boost the tourism appeal of the picturesque Munnar hill station by introducing four new buses. This announcement was made by the Transport Minister, K.B. Ganesh Kumar, during the flag-off of a double-decker bus designed specifically for sightseeing in Munnar on Saturday.

Minister Ganesh Kumar emphasized that this new double-decker bus service promises to offer a unique experience for visitors, allowing them to enjoy panoramic views of Munnar without disrupting the currently established tourism facilities. "The bus will provide a new view of Munnar," he expressed, reassuring that this initiative aims to enhance the overall tourist experience.

In addition to the sightseeing bus, the state transport department is also looking into the development of a five-star hotel on KSRTC-owned land in Munnar, which could further enrich the local tourism landscape. Furthermore, the Minister noted that the corporation plans to extend bus services from Munnar to various other tourist destinations, which could make travel more convenient for visitors.

The newly inaugurated Munnar Royal View double-decker bus is equipped with transparent glass panels, allowing for a 360-degree view of the lush tea plantations and stunning high ranges that Munnar is renowned for. It accommodates 38 passengers on the upper deck and 12 on the lower deck, with four daily services operating on the Munnar-Devikulam route. The inaugural trip commenced from the Munnar KSRTC bus stand to the scenic Gap Road viewpoint along the Munnar-Bodimettu National Highway.

This initiative was witnessed by several dignitaries, including the Devikulam MLA A. Raja and various KSRTC officers, all of whom are excited about the new journey Munnar has embarked on to elevate its tourism prospects.