Travel Links Interview with Western India Chapter Chairman Mr. Jay Kantawala
About Jay Kantawala
With over three decades of experience in the travel industry, Jay Kantawala has built a distinguished career defined by entrepreneurship, leadership, and a passion for bespoke travel. He began his professional journey with leading names such as Cox & Kings and SOTC, before founding WIYO Travel in 2006. Under his leadership, WIYO evolved into a respected name in customised travel, delivering highly personalised experiences to discerning clients across the globe.
His association with TAFI’s Western India Chapter has included serving 2 Terms as Chapter Treasurer, followed by his current tenure as Chapter Chairman. He has also been appointed the Convention Chairman for the upcoming Greece Convention in October 2026.
In 2021, Jay diversified into hospitality as a partner in The Gourmet Kitchen, a bespoke catering enterprise. In April 2025, WIYO Travel merged with the business interests of Mr. Jitul Mehta and today operates his travel business under Arrivinz Bespoke Luxury LLP and VP Travels (Mumbai) LLP, reflecting Jay’s continuing evolution as an entrepreneur across travel and hospitality.
Questions and Answers:
- TAFI has been a pillar of India’s travel trade for decades. Looking back, what do you believe have been the defining milestones that transformed it into one of the country’s most influential travel associations?
For over four decades, TAFI has been far more than an association—it has been the conscience and collective voice of India’s travel fraternity. Our journey has been defined by trust, integrity and an unwavering commitment to our members. From advocating policy reforms and strengthening industry partnerships to creating global opportunities through our conventions, TAFI has consistently evolved with the times while remaining rooted in its founding values. That is precisely why our theme this year, “Connecting Legacies & Crafting Futures,” reflects who we are— honouring the legacy that built us while preparing our members for the opportunities of tomorrow.
- Every TAFI Convention has a distinct purpose. What makes the 2026 Greece Convention different, and what are the key outcomes delegates should expect to take back to India?
The Greece Convention has been curated as a catalyst for transformation. It is not simply about visiting a destination; it is about expanding perspectives. Every session, every interaction and every business engagement has been designed to inspire innovation, strengthen global partnerships and create tangible business opportunities. Delegates will return not only with new contacts but with new ideas, new collaborations and renewed confidence to shape the future of their businesses.
- The travel industry has evolved rapidly with AI, changing consumer expectations and digital transformation. How is TAFI preparing its members to remain competitive?
Technology will undoubtedly redefine how travel is delivered, but it will never replace trust. TAFI is committed to equipping its members with the knowledge, digital capabilities and strategic insights needed to embrace AI and emerging technologies, while reinforcing the human relationships, professional expertise and personalised service that remain the true differentiators of a trusted travel advisor.
- As Convention Chairman, what has been your vision while curating this year’s programme?
Our vision has been to create a convention where every delegate finds value— whether through knowledge, business or meaningful relationships. We have brought together thought leaders, global industry experts and destination partners to deliver conversations that are relevant, practical and future-focused. Above all,
we wanted every participant to leave feeling inspired, empowered and better connected than when they arrived.
- Travel Links has been documenting the growth of India’s travel industry for years. How important is the role of credible travel trade media?
A progressive industry needs a credible voice. Publications such as Travel Links do far more than report news—they educate, inspire dialogue, showcase emerging destinations, and celebrate excellence. By connecting stakeholders and encouraging informed conversations, responsible travel media plays a vital role in shaping the future of our industry.
- How do collaborations between TAFI and platforms like Travel Links contribute to the long-term growth of India’s travel ecosystem?
Great industries are built on meaningful partnerships. When associations, industry stakeholders, and credible media work together, knowledge travels faster, innovation reaches farther, and opportunities multiply. Such collaborations strengthen our collective voice, promote best practices and create a more informed, resilient, and globally competitive travel ecosystem.
- Beyond networking and business meetings, what lasting value should members expect from attending the Greece Convention?
The true value of a TAFI Convention cannot be measured by the number of meetings held during the event. It lies in the relationships that endure long afterwards. Many of today’s strongest business partnerships and lifelong friendships within our industry began at a TAFI Convention. Greece 2026 will continue that proud tradition by creating connections that inspire collaboration, trust and shared growth for years to come.
- Today’s travel professionals are navigating sustainability, responsible tourism and experiential travel. How is TAFI encouraging its members to embrace these global shifts?
The future of tourism must be responsible, sustainable and experience-driven. TAFI actively encourages its members to promote destinations with sensitivity, support local communities and create journeys that are authentic and meaningful. Responsible tourism is not simply a global trend—it is our shared responsibility towards future generations.
- If you could introduce one transformative initiative for TAFI over the next five years, what would it be?
I aspire to position TAFI as Asia’s most respected knowledge and leadership platform for travel professionals. By investing in education, digital transformation, leadership development and global partnerships, we can empower the next generation of entrepreneurs to build businesses that are innovative, resilient, and internationally competitive. That is how we will continue connecting legacies while crafting the future of India’s travel industry.
- Finally, what message would you like to share with the Indian travel fraternity and the readers of Travel Links?
The story of Indian tourism has always been one of resilience, innovation and collaboration. Every challenge has strengthened our resolve, and every opportunity has reinforced our belief in the power of partnerships.
As we gather in Greece under the theme “Connecting Legacies & Crafting Futures,” we celebrate not only the remarkable journey that has brought us here but also the limitless possibilities that lie ahead.I warmly invite every member of our fraternity to be part of this journey. Together, let us honour our legacy, embrace innovation and shape a future where India’s travel professionals continue to lead with excellence, integrity and global vision.
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