Skift India Report

After facing some of the longest wait times, Indian applicants for the U.S. visa finally have much reason to cheer.

Marriott wants in on the India story as it positions itself for growth and relevance in the country's hospitality market. The hotel company now seeks to tap into the burgeoning demand stemming from smaller cities — a strategic step that could define its path in this dynamic market.

The hotel industry is flourishing and its demand has now outpaced supply. Despite skyrocketing prices, travelers are willing to pay a premium for both air travel as well as accommodation.

Reliance’s venture into hospitality is timely, especially at a time when hotel demand is set to outstrip supply over the next few years.

Marriott is poised to gain a significant early advantage in a nation where credit card payments enjoy widespread popularity. This strategic move is set to provide added momentum to the hotel chain's ambitious target of expanding to 250 hotels by 2025.

After a remarkable year of growth, performance, service, and network expansion, Akasa Air gears up to herald the next chapter of growth with its latest clearance for international routes.

With the insolvency proceedings turning out to be a long-drawn-out process, cash-strapped Go First is as good as a shut shop.

The vision for the hospitality sector goes much beyond just branded hotels — to include tier-2 and 3 cities which will be crucial for tourism growth. Plus, other highlights from last week's news in hotel deals and development across the country.

Given Rakesh Gangwal’s previous comments on selling his entire holding in InterGlobe over a period of five years, this news comes as no surprise. Of more interest is where will the low-cost airline’s investor turn his attention to next?

Given travelers’ demand for exciting alternatives to the packed streets of tourist hotspots, India’s best kept secrets are now waiting for new stories to tell.