Thomas Cook (India) and its group company, SOTC Travel, have signed a long-term memorandum of understanding with Tourism and Events Queensland to encourage travel from India to Queensland, Australia.

The agreement will cover content, education and training programmes and joint marketing, using Thomas Cook India and SOTC Travel’s digital platforms and retail network to promote Queensland as a destination for leisure, meetings and incentives, business and sports tourism across metro and regional markets in India.

The agreement was signed by senior leadership from Thomas Cook (India) and SOTC Travel with Katie Mills, international director at Tourism and Events Queensland, in the presence of David Crisafulli, premier of Queensland and minister for veterans.

Queensland offers a range of experiences for visitors, from UNESCO World Heritage sites such as the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest to the Gold Coast’s beaches and theme parks, the Whitsundays’ island stays and sailing, and Brisbane’s riverfront precincts and dining. Cairns and Port Douglas serve as gateways for reef and rainforest exploration. The state attracts families, couples, younger travellers and business groups, with sports tourism also a focus, including interest in cricket and the 2032 Brisbane Olympic Games.

Craig Davidson, CEO of Tourism and Events Queensland, commented: “This strategic connection with Thomas Cook India and SOTC Travel is a powerful step forward in our mission to position Queensland as the destination of choice for India travellers. Through collaborative marketing, education and content creation, we’re excited to inspire more India visitors to discover ‘Australia’s Holiday Feeling’, which can only be experienced in Queensland.”

“Our intent is to create innovative, immersive, experience-led itineraries that appeal to our range of segments across multi-generational families, millennials and Gen Z, couples, working professionals and our powerful MICE corporates,” said Rajeev Kale, president and country head – holidays, MICE, Visa, Thomas Cook (India).

S D Nandakumar, president and country head – holidays and corporate tours, SOTC Travel, added: “Our strategy will focus on the key pivots of product development, education and marcom – we intend to spotlight Queensland’s iconic natural beauty while also showcasing the state’s hidden gems and exciting experiences – ensuring truly memorable and repeat visitations.”

TBO has officially announced its agreement to acquire Classic Vacations, a U.S.-based luxury travel wholesaler, from Phoenix-headquartered Najafi Companies. The deal is valued at up to USD 125 million (INR 1,100 crore) and marks a major milestone in TBO’s expansion strategy. This acquisition combines TBO’s advanced technology-driven platform with Classic Vacations’ robust network of luxury travel advisors and suppliers.

Classic Vacations generated USD 111 million in revenue and an operating EBITDA of USD 11.2 million for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2024. With nearly five decades of brand recognition, Classic Vacations has built strong relationships in the premium travel sector, making it an ideal fit for TBO’s vision of scaling its global footprint.

According to Gaurav Bhatnagar, co-founder and joint managing director of TBO, “Classic Vacations has consistently delivered outstanding service, earning the trust of over 10,000 travel advisors across the U.S. Their expertise aligns perfectly with our mission of redefining global travel through innovation and scale.” Bhatnagar emphasised that the Classic Vacations brand will continue independently while leveraging TBO’s extensive technological and distribution strengths.

Ankush Nijhawan, co-founder and joint managing director of TBO, added that the acquisition underlines the company’s broader strategy of pursuing both organic and inorganic growth. He highlighted that TBO is actively open to future strategic partnerships that strengthen its portfolio and further position it as a global leader in premium and luxury travel solutions.

Melissa Krueger, CEO of Classic Vacations, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, “TBO’s technology-first solutions are designed to empower travel advisors with unparalleled tools, resources, and insider access. This integration ensures we bring even more value to our advisors and clients.” Krueger stressed that the collaboration enhances Classic Vacations’ role as the premier luxury travel partner while expanding its global reach.

This acquisition signals a new phase for both companies, bringing together complementary strengths to serve an evolving luxury travel market. With demand for high-end travel projected to surge worldwide, the partnership positions TBO and Classic Vacations to accelerate growth, maintain brand trust, and deliver seamless experiences to customers, suppliers, and employees across the globe.