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Michael Goh presents two different brands to meet every traveller’s cruise needs

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Michael Goh, president of both StarCruises and Dream Cruises, would like to give every traveller the experiences they want aboard either brand’s vessels.

Goh said at an interview following the double launch on Wednesday, 26th March: “Over the past two and a half years, we’ve carried over two billion passengers throughout our deployments. So we think it’s now time for us to actually have a different branding for our mid-sized ship, as well as for a larger vessel.”

For this reason, one presents affordable vacation options, while the other is set to change the game when it comes to luxury cruises in the region.

What came before 

Prior to this recent shift, the two cruise lines were under a single entity: Resorts World Cruises.

The line’s three-vessel lineup included the luxury Genting Dream, and the mid-market ships Resorts World One and Star Scorpio.

According to Goh: “When we started Resorts World Cruises two and a half years ago, we felt that using the Resorts World brand was the most relevant. So we went with that.”

Given the way global travel evolved following the pandemic years wherein travellers saw the value of family-centric trips as well as the “you only live once” (YOLO) mentality leading to a slow but growing surge of interest in luxury travel, creating two brands catering to specific needs was the way to go.

StarCruises: the return of an iconic Asian brand

The original Star Cruises was a game changer in the 1990s, giving travellers a close-up on the diverse cultures of Asia.

The revitalised StarCruises brand takes the icon well into the 21st century in a dynamic manner but retains the warm hospitality and exceptional service that made it a key player in the industry.

As Goh puts it: “We’re going back to StarCruises, because it’s legendary. I’ve been with the company for 26 years, and I’ve seen how the brand still goes deeply into people’s minds. So, we feel that this new legendary brand will continue to resonate with them.”

Indeed, StarCruises transforms the Asian mid-market cruise experience into an intimate and deeply satisfying travel experience.

The Star Navigator and the Star Voyager which is currently on her maiden voyage can comfortably welcome around 2,000 in all classes, offering them a different way to experience Asia.

Dream Cruises: the luxurious way to explore Asia and beyond 

Meanwhile, Dream Cruises is set to redefine luxury cruises in Asia via it’s flagship, the magnificent Genting Dream.

This signature vessel can ferry over 3,000 guests per sailing, offering them an exceptional standard for comfort and elegance on the high seas.

With Singapore as it’s homeport for the full year, Dream Cruises’ Genting Dream takes the discriminating traveller to the heart of Asia and the Gulf.

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Uncover Alaska’s Wilderness with Seabourn’s Elite Expedition Team

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This summer, Seabourn is redefining exploration with its Ventures by Seabourn program, as the ultra-luxury cruise line introduces an elite expedition team aboard Seabourn Quest. With voyages spanning Alaska and British Columbia from May to September 2025, guests can embark on unforgettable adventures, guided by world-class naturalists, scientists, and historians. This is Alaskan exploration like never before, combining deep insights into the region’s geology, ecology, and culture with Seabourn’s signature luxury experience.

Curating Once-in-a-Lifetime Adventures

Seabourn’s mission is clear: to offer immersive, one-of-a-kind experiences that connect travellers with nature in profound and meaningful ways. According to Robin West, Seabourn’s Vice President and General Manager of Expeditions, “Our Expedition Team’s passion for the region is truly infectious. Through their knowledge and enthusiasm, guests will gain a richer understanding and appreciation of ‘the Great Land.’”

The Ventures by Seabourn program reflects this ethos, offering optional expedition-style excursions across Alaska’s dramatic landscapes. From kayaking and hiking to intimate Zodiac cruises, these activities provide close encounters with iconic destinations, including Hubbard Glacier, Tracy/Endicott Arm, the Misty Fjords, and the Inian Islands.

Meet the Experts Behind the Adventures

What sets Seabourn apart is the calibre of its Expedition Team—each member handpicked for their expertise and passion for exploring the natural world. The team includes seasoned sailors like Adam Jenkins, an experienced skipper and marine researcher, and Sean Bercaw, a former Naval Officer with over 200,000 miles under sail. Guests will also have the opportunity to learn from knowledgeable naturalists like J. Brian Mahoney, a geology professor whose research spans continents, and Kristina Rau, a marine life expert who has contributed to wildlife documentaries for BBC and National Geographic.

This team’s dedication ensures that every journey is both educational and unforgettable. From onboard presentations as part of the Seabourn Conversations program to casual interactions over meals, their insights and stories bring the Alaskan wilderness to life.

Adventures at Sea and Beyond

Whether you’re paddling alongside glacial cliffs in a kayak or cruising past sunbathing sea lions in a Zodiac, Ventures by Seabourn offers something for everyone. Highlights include:

  • Up-close Glacier Explorations: Witness the towering Hubbard Glacier, an awe-inspiring force of nature, in all its icy splendour.
  • The Inian Islands and Wildlife: Marvel at bald eagles, otters, and sea lions in this vibrant natural habitat.
  • Misty Fjords’ Serenity: Navigate narrow channels flanked by towering cliffs, lush forests, and cascading waterfalls.

Luxury Meets Adventure

Back on board Seabourn Quest, indulgence awaits. With its boutique ship design, all-suite accommodations, and award-winning dining, the vessel provides the perfect balance of comfort and adventure. Guests can enjoy complimentary premium spirits, fine wines, and the renowned service that defines Seabourn’s ultra-luxury offering.

Why This Season Is Unmissable

As Seabourn Quest embarks on its maiden Alaskan season, now is the time to experience the breathtaking wilderness of Alaska under the guidance of an extraordinary expedition team. Whether you’re a seasoned explorer or a first-time visitor to “the Great Land,” Ventures by Seabourn promises an unparalleled journey filled with discovery, learning, and connection.

For those eager to combine adventure with the ultimate in luxury, Seabourn Quest offers the experience of a lifetime. Ready to set sail?

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Banyan Tree Samui: Embracing the White Lotus Effect

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Koh Samui, Thailand’s tropical paradise, has recently found itself in the spotlight thanks to the hit U.S. TV series The White Lotus. The third season, which premiered in February 2025, was filmed primarily on the island, captivating audiences around the world with its stunning scenery and lush landscapes. This newfound attention, fondly dubbed “The White Lotus Effect,” has sparked a surge in interest from travellers keen to explore the idyllic beauty of Koh Samui.

Among the island’s many gems is Banyan Tree Samui, a MICHELIN-listed luxury resort perched on a picturesque hillside overlooking sapphire-blue seas. Although The White Lotus was not filmed at the property, its panoramic vistas and verdant rainforest setting bear a striking resemblance to the show’s most iconic scenes. Seizing this moment, Banyan Tree Samui has unveiled a host of innovative offerings inspired by the island’s newfound prestige.

The White Lotus-Inspired Experience

From the moment guests arrive, Banyan Tree Samui provides touches reminiscent of The White Lotus. Locally infused welcome amenities greet visitors, while the resort’s Wellbeing Sanctuary programs—including yoga, meditation, and fitness sessions—offer the perfect opportunity to relax and rejuvenate amidst nature.

At the Banyan Tree Spa Samui, the newly introduced Sense of Lotus spa package takes indulgence to a new level. The 120-minute treatment begins with a White Lotus Polisher, a gentle exfoliation using bead powder from lotus seeds, followed by a soothing Sense of Lotus body massage to calm the mind and body.

For sunset lovers, the White Lotus cocktail is a must-try. This tropical masterpiece blends vodka, white rum, lychee juice, lime juice, and coconut milk, garnished with fresh lychee and dried Damask rose petals, making it the ideal way to toast the day.

Explore Koh Samui from Sea

Adding to the experience, Banyan Tree Samui offers a private speedboat, Sense of the Sea, which guests can charter to recreate their own White Lotus-inspired day trip. Explore the captivating limestone islets of Mu Koh Ang Thong Marine Park, a prominent filming location in the series, or uncover hidden gems within the Gulf of Thailand’s vibrant marine ecosystem.

Luxurious Living with Spectacular Views

Each of Banyan Tree Samui’s 88 villas features its own private infinity pool, offering guests the ultimate in privacy and comfort. Tiered into the hillside, the resort spans an impressive 38 acres, boasting lush flora, a private beach framed by coral reefs, and breathtaking vistas of the surrounding seascape.

The resort’s three restaurants—including Saffron, listed in the 2025 MICHELIN Guide—present culinary delights that cater to every palate. For relaxation, guests can unwind at the award-winning spa featuring Banyan Tree’s signature Rainforest hydrotherapy facility, or enjoy the other amenities, including a fitness centre, kids’ club, and a library.

Koh Samui’s Time to Shine

With the “White Lotus Effect” firmly placing Koh Samui on the world travel map, Banyan Tree Samui stands out as a beacon of luxury and serenity. General Manager Remko Kroesen shares, “Viewers are falling in love with the idea of Koh Samui. This wave of visitors will not only elevate the island’s prestige but also foster a newfound appreciation for its natural beauty.”

For those seeking an unforgettable escape, there’s no better time to visit Koh Samui. Whether you’re indulging in world-class spa treatments, sipping on the White Lotus cocktail, or soaking in the stunning views from your private villa, Banyan Tree Samui offers a tropical retreat inspired by the allure of one of television’s most captivating series.

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Sail Into Memories: Top 4 Must-Do Experiences in River Port Destinations

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River cruising in 2025 is making waves like never before. With passenger numbers projected to hit an all-time high of 37.1 million – a staggering 125% increase compared to 2019 – the stage is set for an unforgettable year of exploration. Adding to the excitement, 19 brand-new riverboats are ready to debut, enhancing the experience for travellers seeking unique adventures off the beaten path. Here’s a glimpse at four unmissable experiences that promise to elevate your journey.

1. Candlelight Cruise in Amsterdam

Imagine gliding through Amsterdam’s enchanting canals under a star-lit sky, as hundreds of glowing bridges reflect on the water. Aboard a candlelit boat, indulge in exquisite wines and gourmet cheeses, while soaking in the romance and charm of the “Venice of the North.” It’s an intimate, picturesque moment that captures the city at its most magical.

2. Paris: The Seine Gateway

The beauty of river cruising lies in its ability to reach places that traditional ocean liners can’t, and Paris is no exception. Arriving via the Seine River opens the door to iconic experiences. Take a tranquil stroll through Monet’s gardens in Giverny, marvel at the splendour of Versailles’ gilded halls, or add a touch of flamboyance to your visit with dinner and a show at the Moulin Rouge. The “City of Love” truly offers something for every taste.

3. Port Wine Cellars in Porto

Porto isn’t just a port of call; it’s a feast for the senses. In the historic wine district of Vila Nova de Gaia, travellers can explore the world’s oldest active wine cellar. Sample a curated selection of Port wines, paired with local culinary delights, while uncovering hidden gems often overlooked by the usual guidebooks. It’s an irresistible experience for food and wine lovers alike.

4. Basilica Concert in Budapest

Step into the grandeur of St. Stephen’s Basilica in Budapest, where an intimate, 70-minute concert brings the works of Liszt, Vivaldi, and Bach to life. Surrounded by intricate architecture and bathed in golden light, this cultural immersion is as much a treat for the soul as it is for the senses. It’s an ode to Hungary’s rich musical history that lingers long after the final note.

From Amsterdam’s flickering canal lights to Budapest’s hauntingly beautiful melodies, these river port destinations redefine the art of travel. As the world of river cruising continues to grow, 2025 is shaping up to be a golden year for adventurers seeking unforgettable journeys along the globe’s iconic waterways. Ready to set sail?

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Best Western DHA Hanna Mall Quetta opens with 25 keys in Pakistan

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Now open and welcoming guests, Best Western DHA Hanna Mall Quetta forms part of a major new mixed-use development. Travelers can stay in complete comfort with a choice of 25 spacious rooms and suites, all fully equipped with modern and comfortable amenities.

“We are delighted to start welcoming guests to Best Western DHA Hanna Mall Quetta, which marks the start of an exciting new era of world-class hospitality in this major city. An integral part of the new DHA Hanna Mall complex, I am confident this outstanding property will become one of the most popular places to stay, meet, shop and dine in Quetta,” said Olivier Berrivin, Vice President – APAC, BWH Hotels.

This contemporary hotel also features extensive facilities for business and leisure, including an all-day dining restaurant, a lobby lounge, state-of-the-art fitness center, yoga studio, and business center. The five meeting rooms will enable companies to conduct professional conferences, and all guests will enjoy the convenience of direct access to the Hanna Mall retail complex.

The hotel is conveniently situated on the outskirts of the city, and easily accessible via National Highway 25. It is approximately 20km from Quetta’s historic center and 10km from Quetta International Airport, which offers direct connections to and from major cities including Dubai, Jeddah, Karachi and Lahore.

Best Western DHA Hanna Mall Quetta becomes BWH Hotels’ fifth property in Pakistan, following the group’s popular Best Western Premier hotels in Lahore and Islamabad and two new Best Western properties in Rawalpindi and Gujranwala. It also marks the first internationally-branded hotel in the city of Quetta, a vibrant regional commercial hub which is home to more than one million people.

With five hotels now operating and several more in the pipeline, BWH Hotels is one of the leading hotel operators in Pakistan.

 

 

 

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Gen Z wants to travel for work: Ipsos & Amex GBT

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Almost seven in ten travellers across generations (69%) look forward to business trips – but there are clear generational differences, according to new research by Ipsos UK and American Express Global Business Travel (Amex GBT). The ‘Meet Tomorrow’s Business Travelers’ report used representative samples of more than 1,800 business travelers in the US and UK to better understand the needs of business travelers and explore how people really feel about traveling for work.

While 70% of Gen Z respondents (aged 18 – 28) say they look forward a lot or a fair amount to traveling for work, they are also more likely to report experiencing stress, disruption and difficulty in business travel than older generations. Gen Z is also the least likely (63%) to understand that their employer has a responsibility to care for them while they are on work trips vs. business travelers overall (68%) and Millennials (73%), highlighting an opportunity for better education and communication about business travel policies and support services.

The older Millennial cohort (aged 29-44) are most positive about traveling for work and more likely than other generations to describe business travel as good for their career, exciting, motivating and good for teamwork.

Travel Disruption and Technology

  • A majority of travelers across all generations, who reported experiencing disruption to work travel plans over the past year, say they felt well supported by their employer – 84% in the UK and 90% in the US.
  • Gen Z travelers report higher levels of disruption in their work travel plans over the past year (45%) vs. Millennials (36%) and Gen X (32%).
  • When travel is disrupted, the report found that six in ten business travelers across the generations express interest in using digital and self-service tools, while seven in ten desire human assistance – highlighting the need for a blend of human and tech support.
  • More than half of respondents across all generations report they are comfortable with generative AI (GenAI) carrying out tasks ranging from booking flights (62%), to completing expense reports (60%) to booking hotels and restaurants on their behalf. However, Millennial comfort with GenAI consistently outpaces Gen Z. Despite sometimes being seen as a “digital native” generation, Gen Z travelers (60%) are less likely than Millennials (66%) to express comfort with using GenAI to book flights.

Evan Konwiser, Chief Product and Strategy Officer, Amex GBT, said: “We can see that Gen Z workers recognize how business travel can enable career growth and connection in a more disrupted world. With that said, we know that traveling can be an emotional experience, especially when it is disrupted. As an industry it is important that we find the right mix of digital self-service and human support to meet the needs of both today and tomorrow’s traveling workforce.”

He continued: “When you combine AI with human talent you can unlock exceptional user experiences while managing the corporate policy and program.”

The report also found that, across generations, there are multiple opportunities and challenges that employers must address to keep business travelers satisfied and secure on the road. Some additional takeaways include:

  • Combining work with pleasure or ‘Bleisure’ travel: Almost two-thirds (62%) of US and UK business travelers have extended work trips for leisure, and half (52%) have incorporated work into leisure trips, raising conversations around work-life balance and compliance.
  • Personal values heard: Nearly two thirds (65%) say their employer enables them to stick to their personal values on the road. The most frequent travelers (who have taken at least 11 flights for work in the past two years) feel this more strongly, with nearly eight in ten (78%) agreeing this is the case.
  • Remote and hybrid workers on travel: Among those working remotely, four in ten said opportunities for travel would be one of the most important factors when looking for a new job. When asked about the purpose of their last work trip, hybrid workers were more likely to report a wider range of travel categories with 55% saying that client work (project work, relationship building and sales meetings) was the reason for the trip compared with 49% of remote and 47% of location workers.
  • They expect to travel more for work and for it to get easier: Overall, more than half (55%) of respondents across generations expect to travel more in five years than they do today, with two-thirds thinking travel for work will get easier in the future.

Kelly Beaver MBE, Chief Executive of Ipsos in the UK and Ireland, said: “The past few years have been challenging for everyone, employers and employees alike, and those just entering the workforce for the first time are finding it especially difficult to find their feet.

We know from our own experience, and from research done by our specialist employee research team at Ipsos Karian and Box, that time spent together, whether collaborating in offices or onsite with our clients, has an important, positive impact on employee advocacy and connection. In our wider work, we are also seeing Generation Z reporting higher stress levels than other generations, so businesses and brands have an opportunity to understand how to respond to make things easier.”

The study concludes by identifying a range of ways to make business travel more seamless, secure, special and sustainable for travelers across generations.

 

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RevPAR surges 23% in Hyderabad, Tier II & III cities dominate new hotel signings: JLL

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The Indian hospitality sector demonstrated strong growth in Q4 (October-December) 2024, with the top six markets experiencing year-over-year increases in both Average Daily Rate (ADR) and Revenue Per Available Room (RevPAR).

Hyderabad emerged as the standout performer, recording the highest RevPAR growth at 23.3%, primarily driven by a significant increase in ADR. Bengaluru also showed impressive resilience, with high RevPAR growth supported by improvements in both ADR and occupancy rates.

The quarter saw substantial activity in hotel signings, with 99 new hotels totaling 11,943 keys being signed. This indicates continued investor confidence and expansion in the Indian hospitality market. In terms of transactions, the total value for 2024 was estimated at approximately INR 2,900 crore, highlighting significant investment in the sector.

Interestingly, Tier II and Tier III cities accounted for 50% of the transactions, predominantly involving unbranded midscale properties. This suggests a growing interest in developing hospitality infrastructure beyond the major metropolitan areas. The investment landscape saw diverse participation, with High-Net-Worth Individuals (HNIs), family offices, and private owners contributing 51% of the investment volume.

Q4 2024 saw a significant shift towards Tier II and III cities, which accounted for 75% of new hotel signings. The midscale segment dominated, representing 53% of hotel openings and 44% of signings. Uttar Pradesh led in signings, with 1,744 keys. Interestingly, HNIs, family offices, and private owners contributed 51% of the investment volume, indicating a growing interest from individual investors in the hospitality sector.

New hotspots are emerging in Delhi’s Yashobhoomi and Mumbai’s airport district, signaling potential for future growth in these areas. Overall, the Q4 2024 report paints a picture of a robust and expanding Indian hospitality market, with growth spread across various cities, tiers, and segments, suggesting a positive outlook for the industry.

“Hospitality markets in India saw an unprecedented activity in 2024. Backed by a strong domestic travel demand both in business and leisure segments, hotel investments saw several new groups attracted towards building new hotels especially in tier II and tier III towns. We witnessed 367 new hotel signings and 154 new hotel openings last year. This represented 14% of growth over 2023. This is encouraging news for the Hotel industry ecosystem as it will boost construction activity, lending activity and finally providing jobs across the spectrum,” stated Jaideep Dang, Managing Director, Hotels and Hospitality Group, India, JLL.

 

 

 

 

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Orient Express Corinthian opens reservations

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Orient Express  Sailing  Yachts  officially  opens  reservations  for Orient Express Corinthian, the largest sailing yacht in the world, setting sail in summer 2026. Inviting travellers to embark on her first sailing season between May to October 2026, guests can expect an unprecedented sailing experience of the highly anticipated yacht.

Tracing a course shaped by the wind, each voyage offers discovery through the Mediterranean and Adriatic with an unprecedented freedom to explore. Offering sailings from two to eight-nights, or combined into longer experiences, each voyage is created to reveal coastal panoramas of striking beauty. Orient Express Corinthian follows the most favorable winds to minimize its impact on the ecosystem and provides an authentic sailing experience in luxury synonymous with the legendary brand.

The vessel will call at storied ports whose very names evoke indulgence and beauty, such as Monte-Carlo, Portofino and Saint-Tropez. Beyond these iconic stops, she unveils more discreet, picturesque harbors: Portoferraio, Napoleon’s secret island retreat; Saint-Florent, with its fishing port nestled deep in the Corsican maquis; and Lerici, a jewel of the Gulf of La Spezia, long known as the Gulf of Poets.

A journey tracing the shores that have long captivated aesthetes and stirred the imagination of artists. Thirty-five ports, each an ode to a Mediterranean at its most luminous, where unspoiled nature meets effortless elegance, where antiquity lingers amid the rhythms of the art of living.

Orient Express Corinthian is more than a journey through history—it is a voyage into the heart of the Mediterranean’s most vibrant moments. From Venice, alive with artistic brilliance during the Biennale and the Mostra, to St. Tropez, where sails dance across the horizon during Les Voiles, and Monaco, where the world’s finest yachts gather in a dazzling display at the Yacht Show, each destination is carefully chosen to immerse guests in a seamless blend of heritage and modern grandeur.

With just 54 suites, ranging from 45 to 230 square meters (463 to 2422 feet), space is a luxury unto itself, Orient Express Corinthian offers a world of handcrafted experiences designing every moment on board to be unforgettable. Where an all- inclusive philosophy ensures a seamless balance of pleasure, enlightenments and reconnection.

Architect Maxime d’Angeac, Artistic Director of Orient Express, has envisioned interiors that reimagine the golden age of travel with a contemporary and elevated sensibility. From railways to the open sea, the journey remains a study in movement, an ever-changing panorama and a masterclass in hospitality, where service is intuitive and every element is meticulously curated. Each moment on board feels immediate and timeless.

With multiple restaurants under the culinary direction of multi-Michelin-starred Michelin chef Yannick Alléno, to plentiful bars and lounges, including an intimate Art Deco- inspired speakeasy, guests are further invited to savor each moment. A 115-seat cabaret and a state-of-the-art recording studio, two pools and marina complete this world of sophisticated revelry, where every evening carries the promise of a new experience.

Additionally, in several ports of call, Orient Express Corinthian transforms destinations into unforgettable encounters with culture, history, and craftsmanship through inclusive experiences. Whether it’s exclusive access to archaeological wonders in Pompeii, a private tour and dinner atop the Peggy Guggenheim Museum in Venice, or the thrill of driving a race car on the legendary Circuit Paul Ricard, each moment creates memories that last a lifetime.

With reservations now open, the world’s most discerning travellers are invited to embark on a sailing experience like no other—an odyssey of elegance, innovation, and timeless adventure on board.

 

 

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Eagle Travel transitions to Advantage Managed Services

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The Advantage Travel Partnership has announced Eagle Travel has transitioned its business to operate under its Managed Services model – Advantage Managed Services (AMS) from being a standard member.

Eagle Travel said that having access to Advantage’s bespoke AMS back-office V-Suite, whilst receiving full support from its dedicated AMS finance team to manage all their supplier payments, would better support the agency’s strategic goals going forward.

Based in Goldington Road in Bedford since 1991, Eagle Travel is a boutique-style agency offering tailor-made and luxury holidays, whilst offering experiences such as worldwide cruises, rail journeys, UK tours and beach escapes. The business takes pride in its personal approach, and professional environment and offers a trusted service to its customers.

This transition also facilitates the semi-retirement of Eagle Travel’s co-owners, Sue Alexander and Carole Forth, who have been integral to its success.

Sue, who began her journey in travel in 1979, joined Eagle in 1994 and, alongside Carole, took ownership in 2013. Their legacy of exceptional service and industry expertise will continue to shape Eagle Travel as the company embraces the opportunities offered through Advantage Travel Partnership’s AMS model.

With Sales Director Charlotte McGennity now leading the team, Eagle Travel is entering an exciting phase of its development. Charlotte has been with Eagle Travel for nine years and brings extensive industry experience from her career in travel since 1998.

Sue Alexander, Manager Director of Eagle Travel, says: “Joining Advantage Managed Services (AMS) has allowed us to enhance operational efficiency and future-proof our business. We look forward to this new chapter, continuing to provide our clients with the highest level of service while leveraging the advantages of AMS to drive growth and efficiency. “

Kelly Cookes, Chief Commercial Officer of The Advantage Travel Partnership, said: “We look forward to working closely with Eagle Travel during this exciting new chapter and wish Charlotte every success in her new role. They are revitalising the back office and now operating under new leadership so that the two owners can take a step back, exciting times ahead.”

 

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Jatashankar: The cave temple of Pachmarhi

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Nestled within the serene landscapes of Pachmarhi, Madhya Pradesh, the Jatashankar Cave Temple stands as a testament to nature’s artistry and spiritual reverence. Often hailed as the Heart of Incredible India, Madhya Pradesh boasts the highest forest cover in the country, with 30% of its land blanketed in greenery, along with 12 national parks and 9 tiger reserves—the most in India. Among its many treasures, the Jatashankar Cave Temple offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty and sacred significance.

Situated approximately 1.5 kilometers from the Pachmarhi Bus Station, the temple is set deep within a ravine, overshadowed by imposing rock formations. This limestone cave is renowned for its stalactites and stalagmites, which resemble the matted hair of Lord Shiva—hence the name “Jatashankar.” Within the cave, 108 naturally formed lingams are revered as sacred symbols of Shiva, while the ceiling features formations resembling the hundred-headed serpent, Seshnag, a legendary figure in Hindu mythology. According to local lore, Lord Shiva sought refuge here to escape the wrath of the demon Bhasmasura, making the cave an important spiritual site.

Adding to its mystique, the cave houses two spring-fed ponds—one with cold water and the other with warm. A mysterious underground stream, known as ‘Gupt Ganga’, flows through the cave, its source still unknown. The Jambu Dwip stream is also believed to originate from here, further enhancing its spiritual and geographical significance. The cave’s most celebrated event is Maha Shivaratri, when thousands of devotees gather for rituals and celebrations, transforming the temple into a vibrant pilgrimage site.

Beyond Spirituality: A haven for adventure and relaxation

Beyond its spiritual aura, Pachmarhi offers a range of adventure activities, including cycling through the lush forests, trekking to hidden waterfalls, and zip-lining at the Satpura Adventure Club. For those seeking tranquility, the soothing sounds of flowing streams, rustling leaves, and chirping birds make Jatashankar a perfect retreat. Visitors can also stay in homestays supported by the Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board’s responsible tourism initiatives, offering an authentic and eco-friendly experience.

Jatashankar is accessible year-round, though the monsoon season enhances its beauty with lush greenery and cascading waterfalls. The nearest railway station is Pipariya, while the closest airport is Raja Bhoj Airport in Bhopal.

More than just a temple, Jatashankar is a confluence of nature’s grandeur, thrilling adventure, and deep spirituality. Whether you are a pilgrim, an adventurer, or a seeker of peace, this mystical destination in the heart of India promises an experience that lingers in the soul long after the journey ends.

 

 

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