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Tag: Travelxp

  • Madhya Pradesh Tourism gets shot in the arm from Travelxp

    Madhya Pradesh Tourism gets shot in the arm from Travelxp

    MUMBAI: Madhya Pradesh tourism is all set to get a facelift as it collaborates with Travelxp to showcase the beauty and uniqueness of tourism destinations of the state worldwide. Travelxp will be creating an exclusive series showcasing the highlights of Madhya Pradesh to the global travel loving audience.  

    “Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board (MPTB) is working strategically towards getting tourists to plan vacations; promote explored (travel circuits) and offer new experience circuits in different segments to the tourists exploring heritage, culture, adventure and wildlife destinations. We are in the process to build confidence and trust amongst the travellers and have launched numerous campaigns during lockdown with the intention of keeping in touch with travellers and our stakeholders to reassure them that all the norms for safety against Covid2019 are being followed. Collaboration with Travelxp definitely helps us to reach to travel loving people and they will surely get attracted towards Madhya Pradesh for tourism,” said MPTB MD & department of tourism Madhya Pradesh principal secretory Sheo Shekhar Shukla

    “Madhya Pradesh has always been known for its wildlife and hospitality. Now, with this partnership with Travelxp, the world’s leading travel channel, we are all set to showcase the natural beauty and alternative experiences Madhya Pradesh has to offer, from boating to Parasailing, from some of the spiciest food to some of the sweetest dishes. Madhya Pradesh is unique in its essence and flavour, and this show with Travelxp will demonstrate the power of brand MP,” added MPTB film tourism & film facilitation cell director Ram Kumar Tiwari.

    Even before the pandemic, Madhya Pradesh has been leveraging film and entertainment media to showcase the central Indian state’s beauty and allure. The partnership with Travelxp will be a shot in the arm for the shooting-driven strategy propagated by MP Tourism, providing it access to its core target, travel-loving audience in over 120 million+ homes in 40+ countries.

    “When the world opens up, we will ensure Madhya Pradesh is well positioned to attract the tourist who is fascinated by the raw beauty and diversity India has to offer,” said Travelxp creative director Kamakhya Narayn Singh.

    The show is set to telecast towards the second quarter of this calendar year on Travelxp globally. This unique strategic partnership will enable Madhya Pradesh to create a recall factor for travellers globally, and position the state as a destination with several experiences for different audience segments.

  • Travelxp 4K HDR expands availability in German-speaking markets

    Travelxp 4K HDR expands availability in German-speaking markets

    MUMBAI: M7 Deutschland, Germany’s leading provider of TV entertainment for cable and IP networks, has expanded its ultra HD (UHD) portfolio: International travel and lifestyle channel Travelxp 4K HDR. The channel is now available to network and platform operators in the German-speaking markets for distribution to their subscribers.

    The world's first travel channel in UHD/HDR resolution shows reports and features covering holiday destinations in more than 60 countries around the world 24 hours per day. The programmes are offered in German language on networks supplied by M7 in Germany, Austria and Switzerland.

    "We are excited about this attractive new addition to our UHD line-up: Travelxp 4k brings foreign cultures and exotic locations directly into the living room and enables viewers to experience destinations far away, particularly now that travelling is difficult," said Christian Heinkele, managing director of Eviso Germany GmbH, business partner of M7 in Germany.

    "Travel reports and landscape images are the perfect examples of content where excellent TV/video resolution and powerful distribution infrastructures are essential. This is a great opportunity for public utility companies, network operators and fibre-optic providers to show what their networks are capable of."

    Sumant Bahl, managing director, Europe & Africa, Travelxp, said: "We are delighted to further strengthen both our relationship with M7 Group as well as our 4K distribution in Germany. Travelxp 4K HDR is among the best in 4K and travel shows in the world. Apart from the vivid and immersive picture quality our channel offers, we are also excited about showcasing the original and interesting travel content we produce in diverse genres. We are confident that M7 audiences will love our shows."

    With Travelxp 4K HDR, M7 offers its partners a total of three UHD channels for distribution on their networks. This agreement builds upon the cooperation M7 Group and Travelxp have already established in the Benelux and central Eastern European markets.

    Launched in 2011, Travelxp is currently distributed in 97+ million homes across 40+ countries with several global feeds localised in 15+

    languages. Travelxp 4K HDR, the world’s first 4K HDR linear channel, provides immersive experience with 10 bit colour depth, 50 frames and HLG HDR.

    Travelxp’s content strategy to showcase exclusive, well researched, in-depth depiction of destinations around the world has been inspiring viewers to explore the world like never before. Travelxp is the world’s leading travel influencer inspiring millions to choose their holiday destination based on content that they consume on Travelxp.

    As one of the largest platform operators for satellite and IP-based TV, M7 Group SA serves more than three million end customers in Europe. In Germany and Austria, M7 is also the landmark B2B provider for TV services. 

  • Visuals go hand-in-hand with storytelling for compelling content

    Visuals go hand-in-hand with storytelling for compelling content

    MUMBAI: It takes massive effort, time and investment but delivers great result for producing high-quality content in terms of visuals, said Travelxp’s creative director Kamakhya Narayana Singh while sharing the advantages of 4K and 8K format during the fourth edition of The Content Hub 2020 hosted by indiantelevision.com.

    Travelxp is the first Indian travel genre broadcasting channel to provide high-quality viewing experience of 4K and 8K to the viewers. It began its journey to create 4k content in 2015 and 8K in between 2016-17.

    “Two things make content great: storytelling and visual quality,” said Singh. “Storytelling is important but at the same time visuals are also important as it increases the viewing experience of the consumer.”

    From scratch to the final product, Singh points out that content creation in high-quality visual may be tiresome but the final output is beautiful and enriching. He said, “The concept of 4K is not just about increasing pixels but making the pixels, screen and viewers' experience more beautiful.”

    “Producing content is a futuristic process; we don’t produce content for one day; rather it’s done for the generations to come. And because of our futuristic approach, it took us time to understand the value of high-quality filmings such as 4K and 8K,” he said. 

    Singh said, “70 minutes of an HD shoot takes 52 gigabytes (GB) storage, whereas a 32-minute 4K shoot requires 512 GB storage. Similarly, it takes 2 hours to ingest one terabyte (TB) data, while for 4K data it takes 24 hours to ingest at the same duration.”

    “Even the last stage to get the final product takes time: 24 hours to render 30 minutes of 4K show, and 36 hours to render 8K. The time for rendering may increase subject to glitches in the first attempt'" added Singh.  

    The advantage of shooting the content in raw format and increasing the frame-per-second (FPS) from 25 to 55 gave producers a lead in visual experience. However, the major challenge they faced was storing the data they shot in high-quality like 4K and 8K as the budget increased four-fold.

    Singh said that the channel started receiving respect in the broadcasting industry because of the quality of its content (4K and 8K).

    During his 20-minute conversation with the audience, he explained how visual quality is important along with content, to give 360-degree experience to viewers. 

    The Content Hub 2020 witnessed over 900 registered delegates, more than 110 speakers and 19 partners. The two-day event saw at least 35 sessions for the content creators.

    The Content Hub’s main goal is to bring individual creators, professional storytellers, producers, streaming platforms, broadcasters and film studios under one platform to connect with a mission to broaden the knowledge pool of the content industry. “It is all about learning, networking and collaborating towards building a roadmap for a better content ecosystem,” said Indiantelevision.com group founder, chief executive officer and editor-in-chief Anil Wanvari.

  • Visuals are as important as storytelling for content, says Travelxp’s creative director

    Visuals are as important as storytelling for content, says Travelxp’s creative director

    MUMBAI: Along with storytelling, the impact of visuals is also important, says Travelxp creative director Kamakhya Narayana Singh, while addressing the crowd about the advantages of 4K and 8K format experience on day two of The Content Hub 2020, an initiative by Indiantelevision.com.

    Travelxp is the first Indian travel genre broadcasting channel to come up with high quality viewing experience of 4K and 8K to the viewers.

    Singh mentions that the concept of 4K is not just about enhancing pixels but making the screen and viewers' experience beautiful. He adds that it may take time and investment to produce 4K content but the results they achieved were tremendous.

    Producing content is a futuristic process and it’s done for the generations to come, said Singh. “And, it is very much viable in terms of returns as it increases the viewers' experience altogether,” he said.

    He said, “The channel, Travelxp, made a difference and mark in the broadcasting industry because of the quality of content in 4K and 8K that we started producing. However, it took us time to understand what 4K is but eventually, it started bearing results for us.”

  • Travelxp launches in Romania’s via Telekom Romania

    Travelxp launches in Romania’s via Telekom Romania

    MUMBAI: Expanding its footprint in Europe, Travelxp has launched its operations in Romania from 1 January 2020. The channel will be shown on DTH and IPTV platforms of Telekom Romania, which is an integrated telecommunications company.

    As viewers in Romania enjoying global travel programmes from the comfort of their homes, Travelxp is becoming 100 per cent localised with subtitles in Romanian and keeping its commitment to connect with audiences in their own language.

    Travelxp managing director – Europe Sumant Bahl said: “The year 2019 has been an excellent year for the channel, and 2020 begins with a crucial partnership with Telekom Romania. We are excited to showcase 100% original travel documentary programming to the viewers of Romania, and to have the experience and explore the world on their television screens.”

    Meanwhile, Telekom Romania chief commercial officer, residential segment Andreas Elsner said: “By including Travel XP in our TV grids, we are providing our customers with exciting programmes, which will broaden their perspective on travel and will give them the opportunity to learn new things about different cultures and countries. Our partnership with Travel XP is valuable through the variety and quality of the broadcast content which we are certain that our customers will enjoy watching.”

    Travelxp is already localised in nine European languages and distributed in over 18 countries across Europe.

    Travelxp is an initiative of Celebrities Management Private Limited, India, and Media Worldwide Limited, UK with interests in broadcast, advertising, media consulting and other related services.

  • Travelxp to premiere ‘Off The Grid Ethiopia’ from 8th September

    Travelxp to premiere ‘Off The Grid Ethiopia’ from 8th September

    MUMBAI: Travelxp will feature an exclusive show on Africa’s oldest country, Ethiopia from September 8-12, 2019 at 8 pm on Travelxp 4K, Travelxp HD and Travelxp SD. Off The Grid explores an offbeat travel perspective by journeying into the unknown, doing the unconventional, going local and living the anticipation to experience something new.

    “Off The Grid Ethiopia” is a 5-episode series, featuring Ethiopia’s unparalleled heritage through rock-hewn churches of Lalibela, rare archaeological remains of early hominids in Addis Ababa, ancient palaces of Gondar and the fortified historic town of Harari. The show also introduces indigenous tribal communities like Karo, Hammar, Daasanach and Mursi. Glimpses of some rare species like a Gelada baboon, world’s only grass-eating monkey make the show one-of-its-kind.  

    OTG has been directed by the veteran travel director Rohan Patoley and hosted by an adventurous Emeline Nsingi Nkosi. Sharing his experience, Rohan commented, “The expedition to Ethiopia surpassed our expectations. We were up and close with nature, spending days with ethnic tribes, documenting UNESCO heritage sites, etc. The country has a distinct beauty and it deserves to be seen. Off The Grid will be an immersive watch for our audience

  • The challenge of DD FreeDish and new tariff order for DPOs

    The challenge of DD FreeDish and new tariff order for DPOs

    GOA: With the emergence of a large number of OTT platforms and cord-cutting phenomenon globally, the future of pay-TV has often been questioned. The talk of the town seems to be about the how pay-TV industry will continue to thrive in such an environment. Moreover, the new tariff order (NTO) in India is also set to overhaul the entire value chain, leading to some uncertainty.

    Against this backdrop, Video and Broadband Summit 2018 held an intense discussion on the “future of pay TV in India”. Travelxp CEO Prashant Chothani and Doordarshan additional director general Sunil participated in the session which was moderated by Indiantelevision.com founder and CEO Anil Wanvari. The session had viewpoints from two entirely different players as Chothani provides a niche premium offering to viewers, while Sunil is responsible for public service which caters to the masses.

    Travelxp works on a B2B2C model despite having 100 per cent original content. Chothani, who is very passionate about linear TV, does not share his content with any OTT platform other than Netflix in North America. He thinks it is extremely crucial to protect linear business as much as possible.

    Chothani, talking about the NTO, said that DPOs are in existential crisis. He thinks DD FreeDish is the biggest challenge for distribution platform operators (DPOs) as the former offers over 100 free to air channels to consumers for free and the latter has to charge Rs 130 for the same as per the NTO.

    “FreeDish is your biggest competitor. Where do you think these 30 or 40 million homes have come from? They go to a large part of north India, UP, Bihar and lot many other markets, where the customer is not willing to pay even Rs 99. There comes the cord cutting in favour of DD FreeDish because this population is satisfied whatever channels come to them for free,” he commented.

    While there are already technological disruptors like Hotstar, Netflix, Amazon threatening linear TV’s growth, consumers, who don’t wish to pay for the channels, can turn to DD FreeDish, said Sunil endorsing Chothani’s view.  

    From the audience, Doordarshan director general Supriya Sahu added that DD FreeDish is not only used by a marginal section of the society but the service is quickly evolving as an alternative option which clearly indicates that it could be a potential threat for DPOs.

    When asked if DD FreeDish would partner with broadcasters, Sunil said he was open to the idea of collaboration. Rather than making money, the pubcaster’s aim is to let the system grow, he said.

    “We have to work on a business model on that front and it is very difficult to answer this question at this point of time because the call has to be taken by the government. But yes cable operators and broadcasters are a part of this system. They are always welcome to partner with us,” he added later.

    He also thinks NTO will be a big game changer as the difference in price between small LCOs and bigger ones has been taken away by TRAI regulations. He also believes that the future of pay-TV is threatened by TRAI regulations. Customers will watch what they want, where they want and when they want and will only pay for that purchase, he added.

    Chothani also added that India is a very price sensitive market. Even in Serbia where currency value is weaker than India’s, Coke is priced the same as in Germany but in India, it is offered at a much cheaper rate. This nature does not fade away when it comes to entertainment.

    “We content creators got greedy. We thought why would you pay 50-60 per cent money with DPOs and do B2B2C business why not B2C. If you see RIOs of some broadcasters, you will see their B2C offering subscription on their apps is cheaper than they are giving to LCOs or DPOs. Why? Because OTT apps are not regulated,” said Chothani.

    “So, this regulation is also going to take away a lot of customers from traditional DPOs unless they play smart. Broadcasters have been playing this game for too long and will keep on playing for times to come. But DPOs need to rethink now. This is a golden opportunity for them. So, they need to get behind and think how they can make consumers pay for content while DD FreeDish is offering so many channels for free,” he added.

    The experts believe that though the future of pay-TV has a few challenges, the NTO offers opportunities to restructure the industry and make the business profitable for all.

  • ‘Backpack – Egypt’ and ‘City Breaks Salzburg’ – new shows to broadcast on Travelxp, world’s leading travel channel

    ‘Backpack – Egypt’ and ‘City Breaks Salzburg’ – new shows to broadcast on Travelxp, world’s leading travel channel

    Mumbai, 26th September, 2018: Travelxp, the world’s leading travel channel reaching more than 92 million homes globally brings superlative viewing experience to the television screens with two new series of the popular shows “Backpack” and “City Breaks”. Titled “Backpack-Egypt” and “City Breaks – Salzburg”, the shows uncover and explore respectively; a civilization which is rich in history and culture and a picturesque old town which is an UNESCO Heritage Site.

    “Backpack – Egypt” and “City Breaks – Salzburg” are presented by Travelxp anchor Sabrina Chakici, who is a popular British television presenter and travel expert. She recently hosted live from the red carpet at The British Fashion Awards and The Golden globes interviewing Lady Gaga and Christopher Bailey. Sabrina has also presented on a number of Sky Channels and is a recognizable radio voice over artist for brands such as Boots, Glossy Box and Lego; as well as well-known for hosting the breakfast show for Vibe 197.6 FM.

    In “Backpack-Egypt”, Sabrina will take travelers to the land of dessert and the country known for pyramids, ancient temples and crafty mosques – Egypt! Viewers will be able to explore an exceptional and pleasing experience to an ancient city which is much more than Hollywood fantasies of mummies and hidden treasures.

    Show host Sabrina takes us through the Austrian town of Salzburg in “City Breaks Salzburg”, unraveling a city, nestled in the beautiful Alps. Unwrap Salzburg with Sabrina, a city not just known for Mozart but also for its cityscape dominated by beautiful churches, castles and palaces.

    Nisha Chothani, Director – Travelxp, said, “Those who are passionate about traveling are always in search of new places to travel to and explore. We are happy that Travelxp is able to bring to its viewers new television shows which are 100% original travel content. With Backpack-Egypt and City Breaks – Salzburg, we give our audience new destinations to learn about which are so different from each other, making the wait for the release of the shows even more worthwhile. The idea is to showcase the places in depth, giving travel buffs a great experience while watching it.”

    Backpack-Egypt will telecast three episodes starting with “Cairo” which will comprise the first part, where Sabrina starts her backpacking journey in Egypt from the capital Cairo, evenly painted in the shades of ancient Islamic and modern architecture. Marveled at the Pyramids, exploring the necropolis of Giza, Sabrina calls off her day after an eventful river cruise on the Nile.

    In the second part “Alexandria and Luxor”, Travelxp will unfold Alexandria, a perfect amalgamation of modern culture and traditional art. It covers the city from the Royal Library to the glorious Citadel on the Mediterranean coast. The grand temple of Luxor dedicated to the rejuvenation of kingship in Egypt with a dash of traditional Arabic delicacies of Koshari and Falafel.

    “Luxor and Sinai” is its third part and the final leg of Sabrina’s journey where she uncovers the mysteries of the ancient temples of Luxor, Aswan and Abu Simbel paired with the Monastery of Catherine atop Mt. Sinai. Bidding adieu to Egypt she visits the vibrant town of Sharm-El-sheikh, exploring the local market and a mosque.

  • Travelxp announces five-part series ‘10 Days Cyprus’

    Travelxp announces five-part series ‘10 Days Cyprus’

    Mumbai, 9th August, 2018: Travelxp, the world’s leading travel channel reaching more than 91 million homes globally and renowned for mainstream travel shows filmed on the latest 4K technology, has launched a new show, “10 Days Cyprus”, encompassing stunning beaches and uncovering beautiful nature trails.
    The show, “10 days Cyprus” is presented by Travelxp anchor Sabrina Chakici, who is a popular British television presenter and travel expert. She recently hosted live from the red carpet at The British Fashion Awards and The Golden globes interviewing Lady Gaga and Christopher Bailey. Sabrina has also presented on a number of Sky Channels and is a recognizable radio voice over artist for brands like Boots, Glossy Box and Lego; as well as well-known for hosting the breakfast show for Vibe 197.6 FM.
    Sabrina will take travel buffs and foodies on an expedition to explore the Mediterranean island nation. Viewers will be able to explore a unique and rewarding experience to ancient cities steeped in Greek myths and will cherish local cuisines to understand the region’s rich culture.

    Nisha Chothani, Director – Travelxp, said, “I am delighted to announce the launch of our latest show, 10 Days Cyprus, showcasing this unique and extraordinary Mediterranean island nation. The show has been created with 100% original travel content shot in exquisite 4K and HD. We are launching the show on 12th August in India. The show will telecast on channel Travelxp. Through this new show, we want our audience to experience the history and archeology of these ancient cities soaked in Greek myths, the pristine beaches and the rich culture that Cyprus has to offer its viewers. ”
    H.E. Mr. Agis Loizou., Ambassador – High Commissioner of the Republic of Cyprus stated, “We are delighted that Travelxp has filmed an entire television show in our beautiful Mediterranean island of Cyprus. Through this show, I am confident viewers will get a wonderful tour of this picturesque traveler’s hot-spot and will certainly like to visit and experience it’s amazing beauty and vibrant lifestyle. I urge you all to watch 10 Days Cyprus on Travelxp and get immersed in exciting Cyprus.”
    10 days Cyprus will be showcased in five parts and “Larnaca” shall comprise the first part of it, wherein viewers can catch a glimpse of the city of Lazarus with ten thousand years of history, and one of the world’s twenty most ancient, continuously inhabited cities for the last 4000 years.

    In the second part “Nicosia”, Travelxp will unfold the largest city of Cyprus. This city for the past 1100 years served as the nation’s capital and travel to the medieval village of Fikardou, visiting Troodos ranges.
    “Khirokitia” which is its third part will showcase the road leading to Troodos ranges and UNESCO village churches. It will showcase the Greek culture and uncover the history and beautiful beaches of Paphos.
    In the fifth part of the show, “Paphos” will present the discovery of the myths of Greek and Roman philosophies and unravel the stories at Paphos Archaeological Park. It will help travelers explore the historic town of Limassol and top it with fun-filled kite surfing on Mediterranean.
    In the final leg, the show will unravel “Akamas National Park” which is known for its Biodiversity. It will also show donkey farms to learn about its significance and dine on traditional Cypriot dishes.

  • Travelxp announces five-part series ’10 Days Cyprus’

    Travelxp announces five-part series ’10 Days Cyprus’

    Mumbai, 9th August, 2018: Travelxp, the world’s leading travel channel reaching more than 91 million homes globally and renowned for mainstream travel shows filmed on the latest 4K technology, has launched a new show, “10 Days Cyprus”, encompassing stunning beaches and uncovering beautiful nature trails.

    The show, “10 days Cyprus” is presented by Travelxp anchor Sabrina Chakici, who is a popular British television presenter and travel expert. She recently hosted live from the red carpet at The British Fashion Awards and The Golden globes interviewing Lady Gaga and Christopher Bailey. Sabrina has also presented on a number of Sky Channels and is a recognizable radio voice over artist for brands like Boots, Glossy Box and Lego; as well as well-known for hosting the breakfast show for Vibe 197.6 FM.

    Sabrina will take travel buffs and foodies on an expedition to explore the Mediterranean island nation. Viewers will be able to explore a unique and rewarding experience to ancient cities steeped in Greek myths and will cherish local cuisines to understand the region’s rich culture.

    Nisha Chothani, Director – Travelxp, said, “I am delighted to announce the launch of our latest show, 10 Days Cyprus, showcasing this unique and extraordinary Mediterranean island nation. The show has been created with 100% original travel content shot in exquisite 4K and HD. We are launching the show on 12th August in India. The show will telecast on channel Travelxp. Through this new show, we want our audience to experience the history and archeology of these ancient cities soaked in Greek myths, the pristine beaches and the rich culture that Cyprus has to offer its viewers. ”

    H.E. Mr. Agis Loizou., Ambassador – High Commissioner of the Republic of Cyprus stated, “We are delighted that Travelxp has filmed an entire television show in our beautiful Mediterranean island of Cyprus. Through this show, I am confident viewers will get a wonderful tour of this picturesque traveler’s hot-spot and will certainly like to visit and experience it’s amazing beauty and vibrant lifestyle. I urge you all to watch 10 Days Cyprus on Travelxp and get immersed in exciting Cyprus.”

    10 days Cyprus will be showcased in five parts and “Larnaca” shall comprise the first part of it, wherein viewers can catch a glimpse of the city of Lazarus with ten thousand years of history, and one of the world’s twenty most ancient, continuously inhabited cities for the last 4000 years.

    In the second part “Nicosia”, Travelxp will unfold the largest city of Cyprus. This city for the past 1100 years served as the nation's capital and travel to the medieval village of Fikardou, visiting Troodos ranges.

    “Khirokitia” which is its third part will showcase the road leading to Troodos ranges and UNESCO village churches. It will showcase the Greek culture and uncover the history and beautiful beaches of Paphos.

    In the fifth part of the show, “Paphos” will present the discovery of the myths of Greek and Roman philosophies and unravel the stories at Paphos Archaeological Park. It will help travelers explore the historic town of Limassol and top it with fun-filled kite surfing on Mediterranean.

    In the final leg, the show will unravel “Akamas National Park” which is known for its Biodiversity. It will also show donkey farms to learn about its significance and dine on traditional Cypriot dishes.