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5 Most delectable vegetarian Turkish dishes
Every year, Turkiye welcomes a great number of visitors from all over the world, including a significant number of Indian tourists. While the country is well-known for its exquisite kebabs and grilled meats, it also provides a varied choice of vegetarian meals to meet the dietary needs of all visitors. Indian travellers who are accustomed to vegetarian cuisine and have a strong preference for flavorful plant-based dishes will find a variety of options in Turkiye to suit their taste buds. Turkish cuisine contains a wonderful variety of vegetables, legumes, grains, and herbs, making it a haven for vegetarian food enthusiasts, in equal measure. With its abundance of vegetarian and vegan dishes, Turkish cuisine is known for its use of olive oil, fresh herbs, and seasonal produce. Here are 5 Turkish dishes that are widely popular among vegetarians: Turkish foods; stuffed leaves (yaprak sarma dolma) Yaprak Sarma, also known as stuffed grape leaves, is a popular vegetarian dish in Turkish cuisine. This appetizer includes a savory filling of rice, sautéed onions, and currants, delicately wrapped in vine leaves. Yaprak Sarma is a delicious culinary creation suitable for enjoyment throughout the year. To enhance its flavour, a drizzle of lemon juice is often added, accentuating the subtle sweetness of the currants. This versatile dish can be served as an appetizer, a side dish, or even a main course. It exemplifies the meticulous art of preparation, the celebration of seasonal ingredients, and the delight of sharing a cherished traditional dish with loved ones. Traditional Turkish zucchini fritters meal , mucver Mücver, a beloved Turkish dish that showcases the culinary excellence of Turkiye, is an appetizing creation in the form of savoury fritters. These fritters are primarily crafted using grated zucchini, which imparts a delightful texture and a vibrant green hue to them. Mücver is commonly served as an appetizer or meze, accompanied by a tangy yogurt dip or a refreshing splash of freshly squeezed lemon juice. The combination of a crispy exterior and a tender interior, coupled with the subtle notes of zucchini, herbs, and cheese, results in a delightful medley of textures and flavours. Its freshness, tantalizing taste, and crispy texture have made it a favoured choice among both locals and visitors alike. Traditional Delicious Turkish foods; lentil food (mercimekli kofte) Lentil köfte is a delectable vegetarian meal with a unique position in Turkish cuisine. These hearty, savoury morsels are made with bulgur wheat, cooked lentils, and a variety of fragrant herbs and spices. The lentils are cooked until tender before being combined with the bulgur and formed into small, round patties. Typically, köfte is seasoned with parsley, cumin, paprika, onion, and other spices that give them a rich, fragrant flavour. Lentil köfte can be eaten as a solitary appetiser, with a cool yogurt dip, or nestled into bread as a wonderful sandwich filler. With its comforting texture and savoury flavours, it is indeed a delicious vegetarian alternative that is also very nutritious. Kisir Kısır, a delicious salad originating from Turkish cuisine, is a classic dish crafted with fine bulgur wheat and a variety of fresh, vibrant ingredients. The foundation of kısır entails soaked bulgur wheat combined with finely diced tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and parsley. To enhance its taste, the salad is seasoned with a zesty mixture of lemon juice, olive oil, pomegranate molasses, and a blend of fragrant spices. Despite regions like Osmaniye, Adana, Mersin, Antalya, Karaman, Konya, Gaziantep, Kilis, and Antakya being renowned for their meat-focused cuisine, kısır has gained widespread popularity and is often served during festive occasions, always accompanied by Turkish tea. Barbunya Barbunya, a classic Turkish dish, features pinto beans, which are known for their creamy texture and pink flecks. The highlight of the dish is the perfectly cooked beans, which are smothered in a delicious sauce made with onions and salça, a tomato paste that is frequently used in Turkish cooking. A delectable and soothing flavour is produced by the blend of delicate pinto beans and savory sauce. There are several ways to enjoy Barbunya. It can be enjoyed as a major dish on its own or combined with a serving of fluffy rice to make a satisfying supper. This popular Turkish meal is served at establishments and households all over the nation, attesting to its standing as a genuine staple of Turkish cuisine.
Top 10 Europe destinations for vegetarians to visit this summer
It’s National Vegetarian Week, so what better time to try out amazing vegetarian dishes in some of Europe’s most beautiful destinations! In light of this, new research has revealed the most accommodating European cities for vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free dining. The study by Bounce analysed European cities on their total number of vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free eateries, to reveal the most accommodating European cities for food lovers in 2023. The top 5 European cities with the most vegetarian eateries: Rank City Country Vegetarian Eateries per 100,000 people 1 Brussels Belgium 526 2 Florence Italy 343 3 Venice Italy 270 4 Porto Portugal 238 5 Edinburgh United Kingdom 229 Brussels is the most accommodating European city for vegetarians, with 526 vegetarian eateries per 100,000 people. Vegetarian menus are becoming more popular than ever thanks to the growing concern about the environmental and health impacts of eating meat. The top 5 European cities with the most vegan eateries: Rank City Country Vegan Eateries per 100,000 people 1 Brussels Belgium 209 2 Florence Italy 163 3 Edinburgh United Kingdom 154 4 Porto Portugal 142 5 Lisbon Portugal 128 Brussels is also the most accommodating European city for vegan dining, with 209 vegan-friendly eateries per 100,000 people. The plant-based food sector has been experiencing monumental growth recently, with higher quality, and greater meat alternatives on offer. The top 5 European cities with the most gluten-free eateries: Rank City Country Gluten-free Eateries per 100,000 people 1 Florence Italy 164 2 Edinburgh United Kingdom 140 3 Venice Italy 115 4 Lisbon Portugal 105 5 Porto Portugal 103 Florence is the most accommodating European city for a gluten-free diet, with 164 gluten-free eateries per 100,000 people. When you’re on vacation it’s reassuring to know that any dietary requirements you possess can be fully taken care of, giving you more time to relax and explore what the city has to offer.
The best European cities for vegan & vegetarian travellers revealed in new study
New research reveals the most accommodating European cities for vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free dining. The study by Bounce analysed European cities on their total number of vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free eateries, to reveal the most accommodating European cities for food lovers in 2023. The top 5 European cities with the most vegetarian eateries: Rank City Country Vegetarian Eateries per 100,000 people 1 Brussels Belgium 526 2 Florence Italy 343 3 Venice Italy 270 4 Porto Portugal 238 5 Edinburgh United Kingdom 229 Brussels is the most accommodating European city for vegetarians, with 526 vegetarian eateries per 100,000 people. Vegetarian menus are becoming more popular than ever thanks to the growing concern about the environmental and health impacts of eating meat. The top 5 European cities with the most vegan eateries: Rank City Country Vegan Eateries per 100,000 people 1 Brussels Belgium 209 2 Florence Italy 163 3 Edinburgh United Kingdom 154 4 Porto Portugal 142 5 Lisbon Portugal 128 Brussels is also the most accommodating European city for vegan dining, with 209 vegan-friendly eateries per 100,000 people. The plant-based food sector has been experiencing monumental growth recently, with higher quality, and greater meat alternatives on offer. The top 5 European cities with the most gluten-free eateries: Rank City Country Gluten-free Eateries per 100,000 people 1 Florence Italy 164 2 Edinburgh United Kingdom 140 3 Venice Italy 115 4 Lisbon Portugal 105 5 Porto Portugal 103 Florence is the most accommodating European city for a gluten-free diet, with 164 gluten-free eateries per 100,000 people. When you’re on vacation it’s reassuring to know that any dietary requirements you possess can be fully taken care of, giving you more time to relax and explore what the city has to offer.
Best countries to visit if you’re vegan or vegetarian
In honour of Veganuary, researchers have found the world's most vegan and vegetarian-friendly countries to visit with destinations including India and Poland. The team at Busuu have identified the world’s most vegan and vegetarian-friendly countries where sticking to meat and dairy-free diet is a piece of cake. Veganuary has become bigger and bigger and in 2022 there were over 620,000 people from all around the world taking part in the challenge. Although veganism and vegetarianism are growing in popularity, sticking to a plant-based diet is still quite tricky in some parts of the world where eating meat is the norm and veggie options are limited. The greatest countries for vegans and vegetarians to visit have adapted to this new lifestyle, are promoting new vegan cuisines and offer a large selection of vegan restaurants. A spokesperson for Busuu said: “One of the best ways to experience foreign culture is through food, and vegan and vegetarian travellers should not have to miss out on that because of their dietary requirements. “In vegan-forward countries, people following a meat-free lifestyle don’t have to worry about finding places that accommodate their diet, as there is an abundance of restaurants and markets that offer plant-based authentic food to feast on. “The list of vegan meccas includes formerly meat-loving countries that have adopted the new veganism trend, and also those whose traditional cuisine is already largely made up of plant-based dishes.” Here are Busuu’s top eight vegan and vegetarian-friendly countries around the world: India It is not difficult finding vegan or vegetarian options in India, as approximately 30% of Indians follow a plant-based diet. It’s a dream destination for foodies who wish to take their taste buds on an adventure. The entire country is full of food markets and restaurants that offer diverse and richly-spiced authentic dishes. Israel Israel’s capital city Tel Aviv is also known as the ‘vegan capital of the world’. The prevalence of vegans has transformed the city’s culinary scene into a plant-based haven. It’s bursting with delicious vegan-friendly eateries where some of the best food in town can be sampled. Taiwan Taiwan has the third-highest percentage of vegetarians per capita after Israel and India. In addition, the government heavily promotes vegetarian lifestyle, so it’s not surprising that veggie-friendly food is easy to come by when visiting Taiwan. Germany Although Germany is known for its traditional sausages and schnitzels, veganism is on the rise as Germans are enthusiastically embracing plant-based diets. Germany is kicking its meat consumption by becoming a leading producer of meat substitutes. Poland Poland has gone through a vegan revolution in recent years and its capital Warsaw is now considered one of the most vegan-friendly cities in the world. There are more than 950 restaurants in Poland that cater to a vegan clientele and the capital city’s renowned veggie burgers are considered one of the best in the world. Australia Australia has one of the fastest-developing vegan markets in the world and in the last decade, the number of people shifting to plant-based diets has doubled. With popular fast-food restaurants adapting to veggie-friendly menus and tons of fully vegan restaurants popping up, there are plenty of options for vegan travellers. USA American cuisine is very much meat dominated, with burgers, hot dogs, BBQs, meaty pizzas and fried chicken. However, all of these classic American dishes can easily be accommodated to a vegan or vegetarian diet by substituting meat. Plant-based diets are soaring in popularity with veganism having increased by 600% in the last three years. Thailand Thailand is a great place to get fresh fruits, vegetables, noodles, and rice meals that are ideal for a vegetarian or vegan traveller. This country has huge local markets for fresh produce, plus over 1500 vegan restaurants and cafes.
Air India goes vegetarian to cut costs
Air India will offer a vegetarian hot meals on domestic routes Air India will only serve vegetarian meals to passengers on its all-economy class domestic flights in future, as a means of reducing costs. The Economic Times reports that the debt-laden national carrier has already implemented the vegetarian initiative on flights of less than 90 minutes, and will now expand it to all domestic sectors. Meat dishes will continue to be served on international routes. "Air India has taken a conscious decision not to have the non-vegetarian meal in economy class on its domestic flights to reduce wastage, reduce cost and improve catering service," GP Rao, Air India's general manager for corporate communications was quoted saying. Some analysts have queried the move however, saying that Air India should offer the option of purchasing in-flight food as a means of boosting ancillary revenues, rather than limiting its options. The airline previously served vegetarian and non-vegetarian sandwiches and snacks on domestic routes, but these will now be replaced by an "all-vegetarian" hot meal.
Cox & Kings names top destinations for Indian vegetarians
70% of vegetarian travellers choose destination based on availability of food Dubai, the UK and Singapore have been identified as the most “vegetarian-friendly” destinations for Indian travellers. In a survey, Cox & Kings Survey found that these three popular outbound destinations are becoming the “top choices for Indian vegetarian travellers” due to their large Indian populations and rising number of vegetarian and Indian restaurants. Other destinations preferred by Indian vegetarians were the US, Switzerland, Malaysia, Israel, Thailand, Australia and New Zealand. The survey also revealed that food is the most important factor Indian vegetarians consider when finalising a holiday. A whopping 70% of this market segment said they choose their destination based on the availability of vegetarian food. The assurance of a vegetarian meal also dictates what type of accommodation is chosen. Fifty-three percent of the vegetarian travellers select hotels with vegetarian restaurants, whereas only 20% will be content with a multi-cuisine restaurant. In addition, on a shorter trip (less than five days), 77% of the vegetarian travellers would take their own food, such as instant noodles. Those travelling for longer durations however, would require a vegetarian-friendly destination. Karan Anand, head of relationships at Cox & Kings said that the main demand for Indian outbound vegetarian holidays was coming from the states of Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Tamil Nadu. The survey was conducted from January to March 2017 with a sample size of 5,000 respondents.
Hong Kong Airlines upgrades facilities to ‘wow’ passengers with “We Serve with Heart”
Hong Kong Airlines is set to elevate passenger’s travel experience with a comprehensive suite of service upgrades spanning baggage policy, inflight dining, online check-in, airport lounge facilities and some unique products. The enhancements reaffirm the airline’s commitment to blending international standards with authentic Hong Kong character, offering passengers greater value across every touchpoint of their journey. YAN Bo, Chairman of Hong Kong Airlines said: “At Hong Kong Airlines, our commitment to ‘Serve with Heart’ represents a pivotal step in our mission to redefine full-service travel through authentic Hong Kong hospitality. By infusing local cultural elements into every journey touchpoint – from Michelin Cantonese cuisine to beloved local street food - we are transforming our city’s unique charm into a globally recognised signature. The whole service upgrade programme synergises perfectly with our network expansion, including key long-haul routes to Vancouver and Sydney, propelling our transition from a regional hub carrier to a global full-service airline. Supported by the three-runway system’s increased capacity and our global lounge partnership with Plaza Premium Group, we are strengthening our role as an aviation bridge that connects China with the world while delivering exceptional point-to-point and transit flight experiences.” 1) Baggage Policy Redefined Hong Kong Airlines is pleased to announce that with immediate effect, a new baggage policy will be implemented for flights departing on or after May 7, allowing every passenger to enjoy worry-free checked baggage service. Economy Class: Includes an increased checked baggage allowance starting at 23kg (one piece), plus 7kg of cabin baggage (one piece) Business Class: Includes a significantly higher baggage allowance of 64kg (two pieces, 32kg each), plus an increased cabin baggage allowance of 15kg (two pieces in total) 2) Elevated Inflight Experience Hong Kong Airlines has designed a comprehensive inflight dining programme which features the “Taste of Hong Kong” and destination-inspired cuisine across all routes, covering Business Class and Economy Class. Business Class passengers will be treated with our three exclusive signature Cantonese dishes, created in collaboration with Michelin restaurant Ming Court, along with a selection of Chinese, Western, and vegetarian menus which updated seasonally, for breakfast, lunch, dinner and light snacks. For examples: Seasonal and route-specific dishes, such as “Okinawa Style Braised Pork with Japanese Rice” Hong Kong-style Economy Class meals, such as “Rice with Two Sides (This This Rice)" and “Braised Rice Noodle with Preserved Vegetable and Shredded Pork” Meal Upgrade for Economy First Passengers who choose the front-row seats in economy class of selected routes will enjoy not only more generous legroom and priority boarding/deplaning privileges, but also upgraded meal service — making every journey more comfortable. 3) Upgraded VIP Lounge Experience Hong Kong Airlines has implemented a significant enhancement programme at its “Club Autus” lounge at Hong Kong International Airport, marking the commencement of a strategic alliance with Plaza Premium Group, the world’s leader in airport lounge service, to deliver a world-class airport hospitality experience that combines international standards with authentic Hong Kong culture. Hong Kong Airlines not only provides the upgraded premium lounge service for existing Business Class passengers and Platinum and Gold members of its loyalty programme, Fortune Wings Club, but also extends the access privilege to members of the Enjoyment Programme in Economy Class and other eligible travellers, including invited intercontinental transit passengers on Hong Kong Airlines-operated flights and qualified corporate clients. Distinguished guests using the lounge service can enjoy the freshly prepared local delicacies, including Hong Kong favourites such as Egg Waffles in Original Flavour, Wonton Noodles, and Shredded Chicken Noodle Soup with Pickled Vegetable. Welcome Drinks by Leo Ko, Champion Bartender Crafted by champion bartender Leo Ko, guests in Club Autus are treated with an exclusive collection of welcome drinks, namely Victoria Fizz, Oriental Iced Tea, Summer.com and Southern Beauty. As a talented homegrown mixologist, Leo meticulously curates a selection that showcases his extensive knowledge of wine, spirits, and handcrafted cocktails. Zoned Design Dedicated VIP / CIP private dining areas with la carte menu options Zoned seating configurations accommodating both business and leisure travellers Revitalising Zone designed to help travellers unwind and recharge before their flights. Equipped with ergonomic massage chairs and infused with THANN’s signature Aromatic Wood Fragrance Mist, the serene space offers guests a truly restorative experience 4) Enhanced Online Check-in Seat Selection Service Hong Kong Airlines is pleased to announce that starting May 2nd, passengers will enjoy expanded complimentary seat selection options during online check-in. Additionally, children under 12 traveling with adults can now secure adjacent seats free of charge. 5) Unique Product and Service Flying with Pets: A First for Hong Kong Hong Kong Airlines is revolutionising air travel by introducing Hong Kong’s first and only in-cabin pet travel service that allows passengers to journey alongside their furry companions in the aircraft cabin. Applicable on flights to Tokyo (NRT), Osaka (KIX), and Nagoya (NGO), this service marks a significant step for Hong Kong Airlines in promoting pet-friendly travel and creating unforgettable memories for passengers with their four-legged friends at 30,000 feet. Fragrance Mist – THANN Hong Kong Airlines is redefining inflight comfort by partnering with THANN, the internationally acclaimed natural skincare and spa brand, to introduce its signature Aromatic Wood Fragrance Mist across its aircraft cabins and airport lounge. This carefully curated sensory enhancement transforms the journey into a sanctuary of calm, wrapping passengers in the soothing embrace of nature’s purity.
SAI overhauls Shahi Thali and Ruchi Thali experience
Singapore Airlines (SIA) unveiled its revamped Shahi Thali and Ruchi Thali experience for Suites, First Class, and Business Class customers. Conceptualised and developed in collaboration with the Airline’s International Culinary Panel (ICP) Chef Sanjeev Kapoor, these enhanced offerings will elevate the in-flight dining experience on flights between India and Singapore from 1 May 2025. Yeoh Phee Teik, Senior Vice President Customer Experience, Singapore Airlines, said: “India is a key market for Singapore Airlines, and we continuously strive to meet and exceed our customers’ evolving expectations. Our refreshed Shahi Thali and Ruchi Thali demonstrate our commitment to elevate the in-flight dining experience and delight our customers.” Sanjeev Kapoor, SIA’s International Culinary Panel chef, said: “Designing in-flight menus requires a blend of science and creativity, while preserving authentic flavours that align with Singapore Airlines’ commitment to serve fresh, wholesome meals. Since their introduction in 2006 and 2016 respectively, SIA’s Shahi Thali and Ruchi Thali have been well-received by customers. The enhanced menus incorporate seasonal ingredients, offering balanced meals with a comforting Indian touch that tastes just as delicious at 35,000 feet as they do on the ground.” SIA’s updated Shahi Thali, a unique Indian meal that features a spread of traditional delicacies for Suites and First Class customers, will feature eight components in its main course, up from the previous six. It will comprise six vegetable or meat dishes, rice, and a paratha (Indian bread), providing customers with a wider variety of flavours. The main course will be complemented by cold and hot appetisers, dessert, and a refreshing Indian lassi (yoghurt drink). Enhancing the premium dining experience, the meal will be presented on a hammered-finish, copper-coloured steel Thali platter, served with similarly-designed cutlery for an authentic Indian culinary experience. Business Class customers will enjoy an enhanced Ruchi Thali experience, featuring an expanded main course with six components, up from the previous four. It will include four vegetable or meat dishes, rice, and a paratha (Indian bread). Complementing the main course are a starter, kachumber salad (Indian salad dish), dessert, and an Indian lassi (yoghurt drink). The meal will now be served in traditional silver hammered-finish serviceware. Leveraging Chef Sanjeev Kapoor’s expertise in Indian cuisine, the refreshed Shahi Thali and Ruchi Thali will feature dishes prepared using traditional cooking methods such as tandoors (a cylindrical clay pot oven), iron griddles, and slow cooking in clay pots, bringing authentic Indian flavours to the sky. The new menus have been designed to be well-balanced, incorporating protein, starch, and vegetables, with gut-healthy ingredients such as turmeric and ginger to aid digestion. Showcasing a variety of dishes and flavours from various regions across India, the menus will be available in vegetarian and non-vegetarian options. They will be introduced on all SIA flights between India and Singapore from 1 May 2025. A sample of the menus available can be accessed here.
Germany unveils 2025 tourism initiatives: Romance, culture, and sustainability take centre stage
German tourism industry is experiencing remarkable growth, with Indian travellers playing a key role in driving this momentum. The country has witnessed a surge in visitor numbers, reflecting a significant rise in tourism compared to previous years. With a strong air connectivity between India and Germany tourism has expanded significantly, with the number of monthly flights rising from 241 in January 2019 to 309 in January 2025, marking a 28% increase. The heightened demand for direct flights underscores Germany’s growing appeal among Indian tourists, ensuring greater ease of access and a seamless travel experience. The German National Tourist Board (GNTB) and German Embassy in India successfully conducted a joint press conference, highlighting Germany as the premier destination for Indian travellers. The event showcased exclusive offers designed for those seeking romantic getaways, immersive nature-filled, and sustainable travel experiences. Recognising the growing interest of Indian tourists in Germany, GNTB introduced specially curated packages tailored for their preferences. There has been a remarkable 71,138 visitor (8,6%) surge in overnight stays by Indian tourists in 2024 to Germany, reaching 897,841. The total mean length of stay of Indian tourists was 9.6 nights in 2024 in Germany, compared to 9.3 nights in 2023, reflecting their growing engagement with the destination. This significant growth, coupled with Skift India's report highlighting that Indian travelers’ spending soared four times faster than the global average, underscored the strategic importance of this dynamic market. The new tourism packages will position Germany as a premier destination for discerning Indian honeymooners and cultural explorers, offering a blend of romantic allure and historical depth. Romit Theophilus, Director of Marketing & Sales Office – India at the GNTO, emphasized the country’s growing appeal: "Germany ignites Indian wanderlust by offering romantic escapes and cultural deep dives that cater to the modern traveller. Whether it's a couple looking for a peaceful retreat amidst nature or an adventurous exploration of our historic routes, Germany has something exceptional to offer. We believe our focus on sustainability and cultural richness will resonate deeply with Indian travellers, especially those seeking romantic breakaways." Our partners from the Lufthansa Group state “With a legacy of over six decades in India, our commitment to the Indian market is as strong as ever. Today, we operate 64 weekly flights connecting India to Europe, serving more cities across the country than in any other Asia Pacific nation. Our decision to launch the groundbreaking Lufthansa Allegris First Class product in the city of Bengaluru underscores India’s strategic importance to us. As we look to the future, we see incredibly opportunity for continued growth in India”. As interest continues to soar, Germany remains at the forefront of global tourism, welcoming Indian visitors with unparalleled hospitality and tailored travel offerings. In 2025, the GNTB is set to introduce three key tourism initiatives: Romantic Germany, tailored for honeymooners; Cultureland Germany, showcasing the country’s rich artistic and historical heritage; and Embrace German Nature, highlighting sustainable and eco-conscious travel experiences. Romantic Germany: A Fairytale Honeymoon For couples seeking a fairytale honeymoon, Germany offers more than just the iconic Neuschwanstein Castle. Imagine private wine tasting river cruises along the serene Moselle Valley, or intimate spa retreats nestled within snow-dusted Bavarian chalets. As spring blossoms, Saxon castle gardens transform into enchanting backdrops, providing unique and memorable experiences that transcend the ordinary. Notably, with Indian outbound travel booming, the GNTB aims to strategically target this market, especially honeymooners seeking unique European experiences. Cultureland Germany: A Journey Through History and Art Those with a passion for history and culture will find themselves captivated by "Cultureland Germany." The initiative highlights the country’s 52 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, world- class museums, and architectural treasures. Berlin stands out as a dynamic cultural hub, where contemporary art meets historical landmarks. Rothenburg ob der Tauber, with its perfectly preserved medieval architecture, offers an immersive experience into Germany’s past. The Museum Reinhard Ernst in Wiesbaden, renowned for its healing thermal waters, enhances Wiesbaden’s appeal. The city of Chemnitz, named the European Capital of Culture for 2025, kicked off its year-long programme in January and is currently hosting a diverse lineup of special events, exhibitions, and performances, making it a must-visit for art and history enthusiasts. The focus on UNESCO heritage aims to increase the average stay of Indian tourists, which currently sits at 4.2 nights, by showcasing the depth and breadth of Germany's cultural offerings. Embrace German Nature: Sustainable and Eco-Conscious Travel As sustainability becomes an important factor in travel decisions, the GNTB’s Embrace German Nature initiative is designed to appeal to environmentally conscious travellers. Germany’s commitment to sustainable tourism is reflected in its well-preserved national parks, eco-friendly accommodations, and extensive cycling and hiking trails. The Black Forest, with its dense woodlands and scenic villages, offers a tranquil escape into nature, while the Wadden Sea National Park, a UNESCO-listed site, provides visitors with a unique coastal experience featuring diverse wildlife and eco-tours. Bavaria’s alpine lakes and mountains allow for immersive outdoor experiences, with trekking, cycling, and nature retreats catering to travellers looking to explore Germany’s natural beauty responsibly. With a focus on sustainable travel, Germany’s well-developed public transport system, energy- efficient hotels, and eco-tourism initiatives ensure that visitors can enjoy their journeys with minimal environmental impact. The GNTB aims to attract the growing segment of Indian travellers who prioritize sustainable travel. 50th Anniversary of the German Fairytale Route This year marks the 50th anniversary of the German Fairytale Route, a significant milestone. Travellers can embark on a specially curated journey, following in the footsteps of the Brothers Grimm, with interactive experiences, themed accommodations, and exclusive anniversary events that bring these timeless stories to life. “We are moving beyond conventional tourism," Romit added. "We're offering experiences that resonate deeply with the Indian desire for authentic and transformative travel. Whether it's a romantic getaway, a cultural exploration, or a sustainable adventure, Germany has something extraordinary to offer." Enhanced Accessibility and Culinary Delights Germany is also enhancing its accessibility for Indian travellers by improving flight connectivity and streamlining visa procedures, making travel to the country more seamless. The country’s evolving culinary scene caters to diverse tastes, with an increasing number of vegetarian and vegan-friendly restaurants to accommodate Indian visitors. Additionally, Germany is emerging as a preferred destination for Indian weddings, with its picturesque locations providing an alternative to traditional European wedding venues. The GNTB reported a 15% increase in direct flight connections from India last year, contributing to the ease of travel. Strategic Growth and Engagement The GNTB’s press conference has brought together travel industry leaders, destination experts, and tourism stakeholders to discuss Germany’s growing significance as a honeymoon and cultural tourism hub for Indian travelers. With Indian outbound travel set to grow by 230% by 2027, according to Skift India, the GNTB aims to strengthen its engagement with Indian travelers and position Germany as a leading destination for both romance and cultural exploration. The board is investing 2 million Euros in marketing campaigns targeted at the Indian market in 2025, demonstrating its commitment to this growing sector.
August ’17 – TripAdvisor to Speak at Skal Bangkok Lunch
BANGKOK: The Skal Club of Bangkok guest speaker at this month’s lunch is Amolakh Calais, Regional Director of Hotel Solutions,