IATO Day 3 2013 by Ashish Chakraborty

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2.5cr jobs from tourism FAITH releases Big 5 As per the working strategy for the 12th Five Year Plan, Now on a continuous basis, FAITH will engage and work with the Ministry of Tourism has adopted a ‘pro-poor tourism’ the Central Government and various state governments on approach. reports... the Big 5 for Indian tourism and hospitality. As per the working strategy for the 12th Five Year Plan, the Ministry of Tourism has adopted a ‘pro-poor tourism’ approach which could contribute significantly to poverty reduction. This has been stated in the Annual Report of the Ministry of Tourism for the year 2012-13 released recently.

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uring the 12th Five Year Plan, the Ministry of Tourism is poised to address the various issues related to development and promotion of tourism in the country. One of the most important motivations to grow the tourism sector comes from the immense employment creation potential it has. “During the 12th Five Year Plan, the Ministry of Tourism has targetted to create additional employment of about 2.5 crore in the tourism sector, both direct and indirect. India’s share in the international tourist arrivals is also targetted to increase to 1% from the existing 0.64%,” said K Chiranjeevi, Minister for Tourism in a written reply in the Lok Sabha in New Delhi. The role of the Government in tourism development has been redefined from that of a regulator to that of a catalyst. Apart from marketing and promotion, the focus of tourism development plans is now on

K Chiranjeevi, Minister for Tourism India

During the 12th Five Year Plan, the Ministry of Tourism targetted an additional employment of about 2.5 crore in the tourism sector, both direct and indirect integrated development of enabling infrastructure through effective partnership with various stakeholders.

In fact, the Ministry of Tourism provides Central Financial Assistance (CFA) to various State Governments and Union Territory Administrations for various tourism projects prioritised every year in consultation with them, subject to availability of funds, inter-se priority and adherence to the scheme guidelines. Further, to resolve Inter-Ministerial issues involved in the development of tourism in the country, an Inter-Ministerial Coordination Committee (IMCCTS) has been constituted under the Chairmanship of the Principal Secretary to the Prime Minister. Further, the Ministry of Tourism has been making Contd. on page 10

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he Federation of Associations in Indian Tourism and Hospitality

Nakul Anand Chairman FAITH

We need to transform ‘Impossible India’ to ‘Incredible India’ and win over 1 per cent share in the global international travel market

(FAITH), which has 10 travel trade associations as its members conducted a launch event recently in Delhi. Nakul Anand, Chairman, FAITH, kick-started the event with his presentation, deliberating on the global perspective and then highlighting the tourism potential in India. “In 2012, we saw global tourist visits cross the 1 billion mark. However, we need to transform ‘Impossible India’ to ‘Incredible India’ and win over 1 per cent share in the global international travel market,” said Anand. Aashish Gupta, newlyappointed Consulting CEO, FAITH, then announced the top five priorities that FAITH will pursue with the Central Government and the various State Governments. “Now, on a continuous basis, FAITH will engage and work along with the Central Government and will start on

the ‘Big 5’ for Indian Tourism and Hospitality. It includes elevation of tourism and hospitality to get benefits similar to industry; creation of an enabling tax regime for both direct and indirect (service tax); creation of specialised tourism and hospitality infrastructure; creation of sustainable supply of skilled and highly-motivated workforce and further extension of visa on arrival for seamless travel.” “Creation of seamless and cost-efficient ground transportation movement; development of specialised tourism infrastructure and last-mile tourism infrastructure; availability of competitive land bank and FSI; high-speed of project Contd. on page 10

STATES

TRAVTALK IATO DAILIES 2013 – DAY 3

South Indian cities on the world map With Mumbai and New Delhi still acting as top source markets for service providers in the tourism sector, the South Indian metros – Bengaluru, Chennai and Hyderabad are in the limelight! Considering this; , in association with the Ministry of Tourism, is organising the South India Travel Awards this year. A N I TA

JAIN

onsidering the potential of Indian outbound travel market, major global service providers – be it airlines, hotels, tourism boards, cruise lines, etc; are turning their focus on India to tap the maximum market share. Despite the increasing number of competitors in the market, the service providers are confident of profits. They feel that the competition is expanding the size of the market, resulting in a healthy distribution of market share for each of them. The top five metro cities are the major

Action Down South

focus for everyone, while mini metros are coming into their view as well. However, the most interesting market trend is ‘South India’ coming up as a major tourism hub for these service providers. According to Partha Chatterjee, Advisor, Keys Hotels; South India is becoming an attractive breeding ground for tourism service providers. “Look at the growth in domestic, inbound and outbound tourism traffic from South Indian cities – it is an excellent rate. The Bangalore airport is proving to be an excellent connectivity point for international airlines, and now the new terminal at Chennai airport will further act as a gateway to South India. With improving infrastructure at tourist locations, more and

Partha Chatterjee

Tony Fernandes

Advisor Keys Hotels

CEO AirAsia

With improving infrastructure at tourist locations, more and more hoteliers are entering this region

more hoteliers are entering this region. And with better accommodation facilities,

AirAsia India will initially operate in the South Indian market as we understand this region

even MICE is becoming an emerging segment in South India.”

For global and domestic tourists, South India is popular for two things action by Superstar Rajnikanth and for its cuisine. The tourism boards are also working hard to popularise their culture, heritage, festivals, wildlife, hill stations, etc by participating in domestic and global travel trade shows, and working with tour operators.

Spreading wings According to the Civil Aviation Ministry; Mumbai and New Delhi airports handle about 200 international flights a day, Chennai receives 100 flights a day (expected to increase with the new international terminal) while Hyderabad and Bengaluru receive about 50 flights a day. However, with increasing airport charges at Mumbai and New Delhi airports, airlines are also considering to shift focus to South Indian airports.

According to a recent study, India is the biggest market for Emirates outside UAE. Bengaluru and Hyderabad contribute to about 20-25 per cent of its total market share, while Chennai contributes about 13 per cent, which is much higher than its market share from Mumbai and New Delhi. AirAsia India will soon start its India operations with its head-office in Chennai and operational bases in Bangalore, Chennai and Kochi. Tony Fernandes, CEO, AirAsia said, “A lot of Malaysians fly to South India. AirAsia India will initially operate in the South Indian market as we have a good understanding of this region.” According to him, the operational cost and airport taxes are also much lower in South India, as compared to Mumbai and New Delhi. Multiple European, Contd. on page 14

ASSOCIATIONS

TRAVTALK IATO DAILIES 2013 – DAY 3

Working Partnerships- The Future in 2025 The 29th Annual Convention of IATO is providing a special platform for its members to handpick from a host of global best practices, the most suitable measures that could be introduced in daily business regimes for ‘Working PartnershipsThe Future in 2025’. brings to you the merits of picking as many best practices as possible. T T B U R E AU Homa Mistry,

Maahesh Aiyer

Nikhil Dhodapkar

CEO, Trail Blazer Tours India In the last few years, technology has become an inherent part of travel business in such a manner that today, life without it, seems impossible. This will primarily drive all the partnerships between tour operators, hoteliers, airline professionals, OTAS and other players in the travel industry. In fact, all the stakeholders in the travel business unanimously agree that in future, technology will play a far more important role. Partnerships will continue but it will have to evolve. And as Darwin had put forward, it will be the survival of the fittest in the industry. In the next 10 years, only those travel stakeholders will survive and sustain their business who go with this flow and adapt to the situation. Starting from big consolidators, major online players, medium and small tour operators, all will have to deploy complex technology with immense ease to undertake marketing and promotion.

VP-Operations Lemon Tree Premier Hotels For looking at partnerships in the B2B travel industry, it is imperative that we know who our customers are. In the next five years, our consumers are and will be more of global animals. We need to understand that we cannot push our own products to them as they are seekers. They will seek what they want. Thus, going forward, I see more generic tour operators merging to become more niche. I see the emergence of virtual travel shopping malls where tour operators and hoteliers might come together and virtually sell products to the future customers. If five years back, the tour operators had taken this step and come ahead to form an online portal in collaboration, perhaps OTAs might not have been this successful. So what is now required is to work in cooperation and not competition.

Regional Director, Sales & Marketing- India, Accor Traditional selling channels such as travel agents in markets such as India are extremely important for hotel chains including Accor. A step towards strengthening this alliance was taken almost two years back with the tie-up with ConnectWorldwide (CWW). With the CWW pact, we have been able to strengthen our relationship with the traditional travel agent. The idea was to bring the Accor brand closer to the travel agent, help Accor to drive its visibility and of course, to reward our travel agents. CWW has helped us expand our reach into the Indian market quicker and at the same time, helped drive business to our hotels globally.

New policy on the anvil for Gujarat The state plans to focus on involving private players with the support of the government in order to boost tourism in the state… TT B U R E AU

n a bid to improve the tourism infrastructure in the state, the Government of Gujarat plans to introduce a new tourism policy by the end of the year. The policy will focus on increasing the part-

sen for development.” Saurabh Patel, Minister for Tourism, Govt of Gujarat informed, “Since last few years, tourism has become a priority and therefore, we will be introducing a new policy for investment in tourism later this year.

nership of private players in the tourism sector as well as developing tourism infrastructure in the state. The government also plans to lease land to private players on a longterm basis for tourism purposes and that the regulations were being worked out.” Vipul Mittra, Principal Secretary – Tourism, Civil Aviation, Pilgrimage & Devasthan (Industries & Mines Department),

Vipul Mittra Principal Secretary – Tourism Gujarat

Govt of Gujarat, said that the private sector is interested to invest in Gujarat and that 39 projects had already been cho-

In terms of visitor arrivals, we are seeing 13-14% growth per year to Gujarat, but we still have a long way to go .”

Khushboo Gujarat Ki The Gujarat senior tourism officials were speaking on the sidelines of a roadshow organised in Mumbai recently by the Tourism Corporation of Gujarat Limited. Over 40 suppliers from Gujarat comprising travel agents, tour operators and hotels and resorts participated in the roadshow. The state tourism board has also held similar roadshows in Delhi, Chennai, Hyderabad, Bengaluru and Pune. This year, the Gujarat Government will invest `90 crore in the campaign. The third phase of the campaign is set to roll out this September. The Gujarat govt has outlined over ` 450 crore in FY2013-2014, an increase from ` 250 crore in FY20122013 to develop tourism infrastructure as well as to promote the state. Our goal is to catch up with other

states over the next couple of years.” Patel also said that though the state is keen on attracting more inbound tourists, its main focus would be on the domestic tourist segment.

AGENTS

TRAVTALK IATO DAILIES 2013 – DAY 3

A sound time for new acquisitions The group is open to new alliances and partnerships, including acquisitions, which in the present environment makes sound business sense. Arjun Sharma, Managing Director, Le Passage to India (LPTI) talks about the journey of the company, its various strategic business units and much more in a candid interaction with . T T B U R E AU

Q. Kindly brief us on the LPTI’s journey so far? It has been a very exciting journey and a one of self-realisation, too. For example, when we as a team first went about expanding the market base. Once that was done, we started to work at building our brand and increasing our market share. It has been a fulfilling journey because we brought smiles to faces of millions of people who travelled with us.

Our work enabled us to showcase the myriad hues of Incredible India which compelled a lot of travellers to come back to India again and again. And somewhere, while we enjoyed what we were doing, we reached the Number One position in the country. One of our most cherished and humbling achievements is the smile we could bring to the faces of little children by creating the first dedicated foundation in the history of the Indian travel industry, ‘Shaping Lives’.

Q. How do the various strategic business units of LPTI work to stay on top in their respective domains? Since inception, we have created 12 dedicated Strategic Business Units Arjun Sharma

(SBUs) that work across entire gamut of the Indian tourism products, representing all the market segments. Each of these verticals is an individual profit centre with its own targets, goals and working with its distinct methodology. It is this diversity that blends beautifully into a tapestry and forms the unique identity of Le Passage to India. Each of these SBUs has relevant leadership, great teams and every one of them is either already a market leader or fast on their way to becoming one. All the SBUs have been nurtured with patience and dedication while providing them with an environment and apt tools to grow.

Q. What new SBUs are in the offing? Is it good time for acquisition? While currently all our Strategic Business Units are in various stages of maturing, growth and consolidation, we

Our work enabled us to showcase the myriad hues of Incredible India which compelled a lot of travellers to come back to India. And somewhere, while we enjoyed what we were doing, we reached the Number One position in the country are open to new alliances and partnerships. Acquisitions, in the present environment are also a sound business sense as we can achieve good valuations for a good idea. We, at Le Passage, are committed to long-term growth of the tourism sector and strive

towards being responsible leaders.

Q. From a leadership perspective, what attributes of your leader infuses the burning desire to stay on top year after year?

There is no magic wand to all this. There is no substitute to passion, perseverance and hard work. As a company, we will grow by between 1015% this year across our various business verticals viz. inbound, Outbound and MICE segments.

How important are the annual conventions of leading travel trade associations? Why? Annual conventions are a melting pot of ideas and a platform, where the industry can iron out differences, find solutions and most importantly set the tone for future growth. It is also an opportunity to bring the industry together and create the necessary platform for creating a single voice that can bring about evolution. I must congratulate the current leadership at IATO for steering the industry well during these challenging times. I wish the IATO convention much success.

HOTELS

TRAVTALK IATO DAILIES 2013 – DAY 3

Better growth for hospitality in 2014-15 The hotel industry is expected to continue facing challenges due to economic conditions in key Western markets and the supply-demand imbalances. A report by . M E G H A P AU L

s no major policy change is expected in the run-up to the elections next year, experts feel the industry would continue to face challenges due to the demandsupply imbalance. According to a recent study, the growth in demand would slow this

Scenario O The hotel industry is expected to continue facing challenges due to economic conditions in key Western markets and supply-demand imbalances.

key Western markets and the supply-demand imbalances. “Due to the impending elections, we do not expect many policy changes. The industry expects pressures on room-rates to continue, though we expect Tier-II and Tier-III markets to show good growth,” he pointed out.

year, owing to additional supply in the market. Speaking on the sidelines of a recent event, hoteliers said they had a cautious outlook this year. Jyotsna Suri, Chairperson and Managing Director, The Lalit Suri Hospitality Group remarked, “Last year was a challenging one for the industry with average room rates and revenue per room being under pressure. In 2013-14, the demand for hotel rooms is expected to see modest growth. We are trying to control our costs and overheads. So far, we have not reduced our staffto-room ratio or room rates. These are trying times, not just for the hotel industry, but the overall economy. In 2014-15, the hotel industry could see better growth after there is more clarity

Jyotsna Suri

KB Kachru

Raymond

Chairperson and Managing Director, The Lalit Suri Hospitality Group

Chairman Carlson Rezidor Group

Managing Director Indian Hotels Company

In 2014-15, the hotel industry could see better growth after there is more clarity in the political situation

in the political situation in the country.”

Due to the impending elections, we do not expect many policy changes

According to KB Kachru, Chairman, Carlson Rezidor Group, the hotel

With rising operating costs, it has become imperative for companies to manage baselines

industry is expected to continue facing challenges due to economic conditions in

Hotel chains are thus, giving discount offers and freebies this summer to spur demand in a poor market. “Companies are not expecting a turnaround in business, which has already witnessed a drop of seven per cent in the revenue per available room (RevPAR) and a marginal increase in occupancy. Going forward, our strategy will be to maintain the market share and look at sub-segments carefully,” Rajeev Kaul, President, Leela Hotels and Resorts asserted. Certain markets Contd. on page 20

HOTELS

TRAVTALK IATO DAILIES 2013 – DAY 3

Domestic conventions on hotel’s radar With over two million Indians travelling abroad every year for MICE, hotels are increasingly focussing on domestic conventions. analyses the potential of MICE in the Indian market. LYANDRA D’ SOUZA

ith its rich culture, heritage and vibrant natural beauty, India has much to offer to leisure tourists. However, to attract MICE tourists, the country lacks the infrastructure required to host large numbers. Numerous plans have been mooted to develop world-class convention centres, international standard airports and hotels with capacity to host these large numbers. The number of domestic companies choosing to hold their MICE activities outside the country has seen India’s outbound MICE grow to US$600 million last year, according to statistics from International Congress & Convention Association (ICCA).

Domestic Focus Several hoteliers in the country, though, are of the opinion that instead of aiming to attract more international conventions to India, the focus should be on domestic conventions. Vikram Kamat, Executive Director, Kamat Hotels observed, “One-sixth of the world’s population is in India and the country has tremendous potential in the MICE segment. I believe that we should forget international conferences, for the moment at least, and focus on the domestic segment. Domestic conventions are increasingly going abroad because they find greater value there. We need to offer them similar opportunities in the country and begin

by ironing out any problems or issues that arise here.” Partha Chatterjee, Advisor, Keys Hotels concurred, “One of the most popular destinations for outbound MICE activities from India is France, which has over 200

cent of a hotel’s business coming from the domestic segment, this is where the focus of hotels should lie.”

MICE Potential With growing interest among business travellers to

Ajay K Bakaya

Vikram Kamat

Executive Director Sarovar Hotels and Resorts

Executive Director Kamat Hotels

Hotels should come together and ask big conferences to come to India. We need greater team work to develop MICE locations for MICE activities. In India, the preferred destinations for MICE are New Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Hyderabad, Greater Noida, Bengaluru, Kochi, Jairpur and Kolkata. Other then these, there are over 4,000 towns in India, so there are locations available. For instance, Lavasa has 1,000 rooms available, but is not generally thought of as a MICE destination, though 40 per cent of its revenues come from the MICE segment.” Chatterjee also opined that, “With 60-70 per

We should forget international conferences, for the moment at least, and focus on the domestic segment experience the culture and beauty of India, MICE travellers are constantly on the lookout for new and unique destinations. And India has plenty to offer to this segment. Chatterjee stated, “The startling statistic is that over two million Indians travel abroad for MICE every year. In India today, the MICE segment contributes 20 per cent of a hotel’s business in India and the growth year-on-year is also 20 per cent currently. It is the infrastructure that needs to be developed further. For instance, a state-of-the-art convention centre will be built in Pragati Maidan in Delhi by September 2015

which will give the MICE market a tremendous boost.” According to Ajay K Bakaya, Executive Director, Sarovar Hotels and Resorts, with Indian hotels not having enough rooms to host large conventions, two-three hotels

Partha Chatterjee Advisor Keys Hotels

With 60-70% of a hotel’s business coming from the domestic segment, this is where the hotel’s focus should lie

tour operators, transport providers; all need to work together. A convention with 5,000 participants, for example, will require many vehicles and we need to see if the basic support is available for conventions of that size. MICE events don’t involve only hotels. It’s an important component, but there is a much larger eco-system that goes with it. We need more conference co-ordinators who are capable of handling conventions of that size. MICE in India still has a long way to go.” Bakaya added, “We have an opportunity to grow MICE in India, but these opportunities are not available all across the country. We need hotels to come together and ask big conferences to come to India. MICE travellers want to go to good destinations. When we’re talking large-scale conventions in India, we only have one convention centre, which is the Hyderabad International Convention Centre. So these facilities need to be developed on an urgent basis.”

Sobering Stats

or more as needed could come together and approach large conventions. He also said that there was undoubtedly potential in the segment but that it needed to be tapped in the right way.

According to ICCA statistics, every year 4,00,000 conferences are held worldwide which costs up to US$ 280 billion

Challenges

Every year, two million Indians travel abroad for MICE

The lack of infrastructure and support for MICE is the biggest roadblock to further growth of the segment in India. Kamat stated, “There is no mindset for growing MICE. For instance, when a convention is held in Bombay, the evenings see delegates jostling for auto-rickshaws and taxis which is not feasible. We need greater teamwork to develop MICE. Hoteliers, travel agents,

From this, India’s share is US$ 4.8 billion

Tourism is a job creator and a great saviour Contd. from page 1

sustained efforts to augment the tourism infrastructure across the country. More than half of Tourism Ministry’s Plan budget is channelised for funding the development of destinations, circuits, mega-projects and also for rural tourism infrastructure projects. Out of the 54 mega tourism projects identified, 40 have already been sanctioned by the end of January, 2013. The mega projects are a judicious mix of culture, heritage, spiritual and ecotourism and aim to give tourists a holistic perspective.

FAITH sets its agenda to achieve its motive Contd. from page 1

approvals and State taxation that stimulate growth of the industry,” said Gupta, as part FAITH’s list of priority to be taken up with the State Government. In his address Parvez Dewan, Secretary, Ministry of Tourism, Government of India said, “At the recentlyheld UNWTO event in India, its chief had disclosed that travellers spend almost four times higher than the global average in India. FAITH will a good platform to sit together and brainstorm with the industry behind closed doors.”

CII Tourism Fest in Chandigarh from Dec 5-7, 2013 Organised by Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) and supported by Ministry of Tourism, Government of India; the first edition of ‘CII Tourism Fest’ will be held from December 5-7, 2013 in Chandigarh.

ATTRACTIONS

TRAVTALK IATO DAILIES 2013 – DAY 3

Everyone’s welcome at Ramoji Film City The Ramoji Film City is coming up with two more attractions targeting domestic and inbound tourism sectors. These new attractions are focussed on corporates, families, adventure-lovers, groups, college and school students from domestic and inbound markets. takes a look. Preisdent, Ramoji Film City said, “For a veritable holiday experience, Ramoji Film City offers a kaleidoscope of attractions where nature and fun of films coexist.

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nown as a wonderland for millions of visitors, Hyderabad based Ramoji Film City is tapping every segment of traveller from domestic and international markets. A comprehensive fun, entertainment and leisure hub, the film city is certified by the Guinness World Records as the world’s largest film studio complex. It is now positioning itself as complete thematic destination offering filminduced tourism ideal for family holidays, honeymoons, weddings and MICE events. The film studio is also designing Sahas – The Ramoji Adventure land to challenge, inspire and delight the participants, testing their body and mind against a variety of odds. This

new attraction is focused on corporates, families, adventure lovers, groups, college and school students from domestic and inbound markets. It will feature adventure activities like Pole Harness Course, Net Course, Paint ball, Zorbing, ATV Rides, Cycle/Bike Rides, shooting arena, inflatable zones and

pool area. Among the projects in the pipeline are Wings – the Bird’s Park which will be one-of-its-kind aviary in India and will strengthen the reputation of Ramoji Film City as the ‘most eco-friendly tourist destination’. Talking about the film city, Rajeev Jalnapurkar, Vice

Rolling landscapes, striking gardens, captivating live stunt shows and thrill rides make this film city a haven of amusement while exclusive film-based offerings like spellbinding sets, lavish locales and Ramoji Movie Magic make it a class apart.” The film city also houses number of hotels (Sitara and Tara), F&B outlets, conference facilities. It has designed corporate packages wherein one can conduct high-level

meets, corporate meeting, workshops on one hand and out-of-the-box, fun-filled experiences on the other. Apart from acting as a perfect gateway for weddings, Ramoji Film City also offers honeymoon packages designed with array of recreational activities on offer including fun-filled honeymoon video, photo shoots, spa treatments, ethnic bullock cart ride with jingling bells, etc. Jalnapurkar adds, “Exploring all the realms of experience; it is all ways been our endeavor to provide excellence in the services and quality to our customers across the spectrum of leisure, MICE and grand weddings. Because of our commitment to high standards, constant evolution and customer as the focal point we are seen as the fastest growing thematic destination in India.”

TECHNOLOGY

Traveltech for every need Built on the latest technology and enhanced features, TI Infotech’s ‘Travel Cloud Suite’ has the capacity and features to enable small players to kick-start their business operation within minutes. T T B U R E AU

or those who want to be different from others and feel they need more and more, TI Infotech has the perfect solution, ’Travel Cloud Suite’ (TCS), with capacity and features to enable small players to kick start their business operation within minutes. “The system will have the functionalities to give small players what they need with extra customisation. TCS is built on latest technology and enhanced features with options to sell all type of services such as hotels, transfers, sightseeing and flight with a blended display of results from multiple inventories from XML’s and own negotiated contracts,” says Meenu Sachdeva, Managing Director, TI Infotech. Discussing the affordability of technology, especially for beginners, small and medium companies, Sachdeva adds, “In the current scenario, it is no more a game to be played by the large enterprises. Technology has now become an essential part of the business. Today technology solutions are available and affordable for all kind of players. The scenario only differs from the sit-

Meenu Sachdeva Managing Director TI Infotech

Small and medium players should start their automation processes from their core requirement to the next important need uation wherein the small players rather than focussing on niche services and their strong USPs, start planning to have the full blown solutions which are being used by the large enterprises. As technology changes very soon, small startup companies don’t have a lot of money for the needed technology

investments for their business. A wise entrepreneur must be able to determine what products need to be bought and what software and gadgets will be antiquated before the company can fully utilise them. When a company invests in a technology, the technology itself shouldn’t need to be replaced due to changes in business.” Sachdeva further adds, “Small and medium players should start their automation processes from their core requirement to the next important, and then to the next, and keep on building in a step-by-step mode. This helps to manage the cost, maintenance resources, lesser upfront deposit for instant sale, and gives the confidence to build up more when the success has been tasted in the first phase. “We see a bright future as there is a need of better automation processes in this industry in the coming time. The industry needs to remain in constant touch with their clientele, suppliers and partners. The futuristic technological solution will have a holistic approach to provide and share the information for a business need and for the needs of social connectivity,” explains Sachdeva.

ICTT 2013: Investing in technology Kerala recently held the International Conference on Travel Technology (ICTT). ICTT had been organised by the Kerala-based Association of Travel Trade Organisations, India (ATTOI).

HOTELS

Domestic, Leisure & MICE The Hans Hotel added a club ﬂoor at the roof top last year. It is tapping 3 segments namely, domestic, leisure & MICE. T T B U R E AU

entrally located in the heart of Delhi, The Hans offers sweeping views of the cityscape. It is ideal for both business and leisure travellers visiting the capital or using the capital as a transit point. Over the years, the hotel has earned some loyal customers and they continue to patronise the property despite the opening of new hotels offering competitive rates. According to Rita Shah, Chief Operating Officer, Hans Hotels, the hotel is also keeping itself updated with new amenities. “The hotel had added a club floor at the roof top last year. Here, all the rooms are 350 square feet each, with large bathrooms and are modern and minimalistic in design. In addition, you have the most breathtaking view of both old and new Delhi.”

Rita Shah Chief Operating Officer Hans Hotels

We also expect that MICE will pick up. Being located in central Delhi always works to our advantage Going forward, the hotel is looking at tapping the leisure and MICE segment aggressively to

increase its occupancy levels. “Last year, The Hans witnessed a drop of 15 per cent in the ARRs and the occupancy had also suffered due to the fall in the leisure market. We were now hoping to tap more of the domestic leisure market as domestic tourism is the way forward. We also expect that MICE will pick up. Being located in central Delhi always works to our advantage for hosting MICE and other corporate events,” she adds. Talking about the performance in the MICE segment, Shah affirms, “The corporate meetings in our hotel are very good and most of the year we are booked. We have four meeting rooms ranging from 200 persons to 10 persons. In addition we have a 10,000, sq ft of terrace garden right in the centre of Connaught Place, which is a great venue for dinners, cocktails and other wedding functions.”

World looks at South India Contd. from page 2

Middle Eastern and Asian carriers are now either connected or have applied to connect South Indian cities. India’s flag carrier – Air India is also planning to have a third hub in South India (probably Chennai or Bangalore) to tap the growing air traffic (both international and domestic). Domestic carriers like Jet Airways, GoAir, SpiceJet and IndiGo are constantly improving their connections in South India.

States’ connection The ‘God’s own country’ is still considered as the most popular state from South India in the global market. However, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh are now coming forward and participating at global trade fairs to improve visibility and awareness. Recently, Andhra Pradesh Tourism signed an MoU with Karnataka Tourism to facilitate easier and discounted booking of trains and hotels for travellers from mutual states. Also, Karnataka is

Hanneli Slabber

Mischa Mannix-Opie

Country Manager – India, South African Tourism

South & South East Asia Regional Manager, Tourism New Zealand

in discussion for the possibility of taking its luxury train Golden Chariot to Andhra Pradesh. Talking about outbound tourism; increasing number of NTOs are now focusing on Bangalore, Chennai, Hyderabad and even Kochi for their roadshows, trade fairs, sales meeting, etc to tap the tourist traffic from these cities. Hanneli Slabber, Country Manager – India, South African Tourism said, “India is an important source market for us, and interestingly, South India is coming up as a potential market for us. We have included Chennai this time.” New Zealand tourism’s ‘Kiwi Link’ roadshow only touches Mumbai and New Delhi, but for the first time

this year, it was organised in Bangalore and Kolkata as well. Mischa Mannix-Opie, South & South East Asia Regional Manager, Tourism New Zealand said, “With 26 suppliers from New Zealand, we extended Kiwi Link for the first time in Bangalore, because our suppliers got many queries from South India in last few years. With the growing potential of South India, we finally decided to tap this region and meet the travel trade. We are positive to receive extensive response from this market, and are going to continue to focus on Bangalore, Chennai, Hyderabad and Kochi through our sales team in India.” The potential in South India is immense. All that is needed to tap this region is the right focus, right marketing and business strategies.

ASSOCIATIONS

Kick starting 2 IATO run nd

This time, people can participate in the 4-km run in four categories. There will be a run, walk, senior citizen and children categories as well. The run will start from Le Meridien, Kochi till Wellington Island Road. fully decline over four sponsors due to the lack of space. Also, I have already received 200 registrations, and the IATO office has got another 150 registrations. We are expecting on-the-spot registrations as well. So, at least 500 people are expected to participate in this second year of the run,” he confirms.

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ATO introduced ‘Run for Responsible Tourism’ as an awareness initiative exercise among its various stakeholders last year. The run, which became extremely popular last year, has now become a regular feature of this convention. The idea is to create awareness about responsible tourism through this initiative. In its second year, the Run for Responsible Tourism will cover a 4-km stretch. Giving more details about the run, Amaresh Tiwari, Executive Committee Member, IATO and co-ordinator for the IATO Run for Responsible Tourism says, “This time, people can participate for the 4-km run in four categories. There will be a run, a walk, senior citizen and children’s category as well. They will cover the same path, but with separate race bibs belonging to the four different categories. The categories have been formed to suit everybody’s interest and encourage more people to join the cause. The run will start from Le Meridien, Kochi

Amaresh Tiwari Executive Committee Member, IATO

There were only two sponsors for the IATO Run last year. This time, we have seven sponsors entire exercise. Also, there will be volunteers stationed after every 250 metres. After two kms, there will be a water station, he adds.

Apart from IATO’s Silent Auction in aid of a chosen cause, the association is betting big on new charity events. Another new feature which is being added to the IATO Run this year is the new charity programme. Throwing more light on the new venture, he elaborates, “Check Out for Children is an existing alliance between Starwood Hotels & Resorts and UNICEF. The UNICEF Check Out for Children Challenge is a fundraising event between Starwood Hotels which began in 2003. This year they have organised an association with Zeus, a self-employed group of youngsters and college students who do instant caricatures on T-shirts for guests. The group does the caricatures on a jeep and takes approximately 20 minutes per T-shirt.” This time, IATO Run has tied up with the initiative with Le Meridien Kochi. People can get a caricature printed on their T-shirt for Rs 600. A part of this money will go to the Zeus Group, and the remainder will go to UNICEF fund, he adds.

Highlights at 6.30 am (while the registrations will be on from 6 am) and will finish at Wellington Island Road.” There are around 15 volunteers and 15 hotel support staff, who will oversee the smooth functioning of the

Witnessing huge registrations already, the event is expected to be a huge success. According to Tiwari, there were only two sponsors for the IATO Run last year. “This year, we have seven sponsors. We had to regret-

O Apart from IATO’s Silent Auction in aid of a chosen cause, the association is betting big on new charity events. Another new feature which is being added to the IATO Run this year is the new charity programme

Japan to conduct two day tourism expo in Jan 2014 Japan Tourism is organising a two-day India-Japan Tourism Expo in New Delhi from 13-17 January, 2014. In fact, the event can also witness a business delegation that will be keen to invest in the mid-segment hotel projects in India. Japan and India have also resolved to strengthen cooperation in the tourism sector. This was decided at a meeting in Delhi between K Chiranjeevi, Union Minister for Tourism, Govt of India and Hiroshi Kajiyama, Japanese Senior Vice-Minister of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism. Chiranjeevi informed his Japanese counterpart about the various measures being taken to improve golf tourism and MICE tourism in India.

STATISTICS

Leisure draws FTAs to Incredible India FTAs in India: Purpose of visit (2009-2011)

Leisure Rules This data was compiled for the first time in 2009. The table gives the percentage distribution of Foreign Tourist Arrivals (FTAs) according to their purpose of visit. About 26% of the FTAs in India during 2011 were for the purpose of leisure, holidays and recreation,

followed by the purpose of visiting friends & relatives (24.9%), followed by business and professional (22.5%). The highest proportion of visitors in the business & professional category were from China (66.5%) followed by Japan (63.4%).

Foreign Tourist Arrivals (2010-2012)

FTAs during December 2012 were 7.50 lakh, as compared to FTAs of 7.37 lakh during December 2011, and 6.80 lakh in December 2010. FTAs were 57,75,692 in 2010, rising to 63,09,222 next year, and 66,48,318 in 2012 (provisional estimates). The 9.2% rise in the number of FTAs in 2011 over 2010 weakened to a rise of 5.4% in 2012.

Foreign Tourist Arrivals in India (Age-wise) 2011 Youth-Connect The above table gives the percentage distribution of FTAs in India according to age groups during 1996-2011. It is to be noted that the proportion of FTAs aged 55 or above has increased from 11.5% in 1996 to about 24.2% in 2011.

Top 5 areas where India Lags Behind

Top 5 areas where India is Ahead

Cleanliness

Culture

Infrastructure

Food

Polluted Areas

Friendly People

Road Setup

Monuments

Poverty

Hospitality

TRAVTALK IATO DAILIES 2013 – DAY 3

HOTELS

Drawing corporate traffic to Goa Business travellers opt for the property for its convenient location and on-site hotel amenities like free high speed wireless Internet access, complimentary breakfast, banquet facilities and a business centre. T T B U R E AU

entrally located in the capital of Goa, the Country Inn & Suites By Carlson Goa Panjim Hotel is focussing on corporate movements in the state. The property features 64 rooms and suites and is located in the heart of Panjim’s business hub and just few minutes away from tourist attractions like Dona Paula, Calangute, Fort Aguada, Jama Masjid and Mandovi River’s Casinos. According to Manveer Kapoor, General Manager, Country Inn & Suites; business travellers opt for the property for its

BBQ restaurant which is perfect for dinner for groups, families and honeymooners.

convenient location and on-site hotel amenities like free high speed wireless Internet access, complimentary breakfast, banquet facilities and a business centre. Kapoor said, “We are leveraging on our central location which is perfect for corporate travellers and casinolovers. We are also an excellent destination for families and FITs, who are looking for great vacations, warm hospitality and value-formoney services. Each of our room is equipped with 24hour inroom dining facility, electronic safe, hair dryer, free wireless Internet access,

individual climate control, international direct dialing, LED TV with cable connection, mini bar, newspaper, packaged drinking water and tea/coffee maker.” The property also houses a rooftop

The property receives 30 per cent of their bookings from their global website and sales team across the world. According to Kapoor, global OTAs like Agoda, Booking.com, etc are acting as a perfect distribution channel for their international and domestic guests. “However, considering the popularity and increasing consumer base of our domestic OTAs, we have started working closely with them as well,” adds Kapoor. The property already has a monsoon package in offer and will soon introduce winter package and casino package.

Domestic visits cross 1 bn mark India is a unique destination with immense potential. Its domestic tourist visits equal the number of global tourist visits all over the world. In other words, when the world was celebrating one billion tourists internationally, Indian domestic tourists also crossed one billion mark. In fact, India has also managed to grow its inbound segment well ahead of the global average in recent time. Sending a clear message to all stakeholders to do more while chairing the National Tourism Advisory Council (NTAC), K Chiranjeevi, Minister for Tourism said, “Tourism sector in India has witnessed a substantial growth in the last decade. During 2012, the Foreign Tourist Arrivals (FTAs) in India have reached 6.58 million. The estimated number of domestic tourist visits in 2012 was 1,027 million. Although the growth of inbound tourism in India has been higher than the overall growth in the world, the share of India at 0.64% continues to be low. We have to strive harder to increase this share”. “The huge size of domestic

K Chiranjeevi Minister for Tourism

tourism helps to sustain the Indian tourism industry, even when there is negative or low growth in inbound tourism,” he added. Further referring to the role of private sector, Chiranjeevi said, “We need active involvement of the corporate sector to adopt important tourist sites and monuments under Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). To set a precedent, the ITDC has come forward and adopted the Qutub Minar. Now, ONGC has come forward to adopt six monuments, namely the Taj Mahal, Red Fort, Elephanta Caves, Ellora Caves, Mahabalipuram, and the Golconda Fort. Steps are being taken for formalising these arrangements. Of now, we have identified about 120 monuments across India that can be given for adoption.”

HOTELS

IATO DAILIES 2013 – DAY 3

TRAVTALK

Radisson Blu targetting MICE segment Currently, Radisson Blu Hotel Rudrapur on an average organises 50 to 60 MICE events every year and is targetting a minimum of 80 events a year. ﬁnds out more about how the property is wooing MICE. TT B U R E AU

ocated in the foothills of Kumaon in Uttarakhand, the Radisson Blu Hotel Rudrapur is keen on tapping the MICE segment. Arun Kumar Manikonda, Hotel Manager, Radisson Blu Hotel, Rudrapur said, “Besides being in very close proximity to key business districts and industries in the city, the hotel with its

Arun Kumar Manikonda Hotel Manager Radisson Blu Hotel, Rudrapur

We completely understand the importance of travel companies and have an attractive commission and incentive policy for travel agents large room inventory, banqueting and conference facilities makes Radisson Blu Rudrapur an ideal location for corporate and MICE travellers. Additionally, we have

MICE-Equipped O The hotel has 2 boardrooms equipped with modern facilities for small meetings up to 8 to 25 delegates O The conference hall is able to hold an event of up to 900 people

two boardrooms equipped with all modern facilities and hi-tech audio visual equipment, for small meetings up to 8 to 25 delegates. Our conference hall is perfect to hold an event of up to 900 people and also can be divided in to 3 equal parts for smaller events. The hotel

also has a lush green open terrace lawn to organise banquet functions.” Currently, the hotel average organises 50 to 60 MICE events every year on average and is targetting a figure of 80 events minimum a year. Commenting on the marketing and promotional

strategy, Manikonda said, “To promote MICE activities, our strategies are creating/spreading awareness about hotel products and facilities to all market segments through various marketing channels, tapping/finding the upcoming potential corporate clients in

and around the city, creating attractive packages for weddings and other banquet/conference events to attract local masses in the city and nearby places, making the hotel available on social media and other online distribution channels to drive productivity as well as consistently

leading the market and setting the benchmark to international hospitality levels. As far as working with the travel trade goes, we completely understand the importance of travel companies and have an attractive commission and incentive policy for travel agents.”

TRAVTALK IATO DAILIES 2013 – DAY 3

HOTELS

Providing world-class services to travellers Hotel Ambica Empire, part of the Ambica Group, is currently focussing its efforts on providing the best of facilities and services and amenities to its visitors. TT B U R E AU

Kalathinathan, General Manager, Ambica Group of Hotels said, “The promoters have studied and incorpo-

R Kalathinathan General Manager Ambica Group of Hotels

rooms, the hotel also has five banquet halls seating up to 500 people, a multi-cuisine restaurant, a coffee shop and a pub and spa. The hotel also offers a range of services for business and luxury travellers.

rated the best of the facilities and services observed from their globetrotting. This hotel is truly at par with any luxury hotel in any part of the world and it is our constant endeavour to ensure that we provide visitors with world class services and facilities.

We are at the forefront of creating new hospitality experiences for guests in a tranquil haven where they will be able to feel completely at ease.”

Located in Chennai, the hotel is in close proximity to the city centre as well as

IATO Secretariat works Behind-The-Scene From papers to place of stay, speakers to delegates, press to PowerPoint presentations; the IATO secretariat pitches in to meet any tasks as per the directives of the Convention Committee, Chairman of IATO Convention, President and

Gour Kanjilal Executive Director IATO

nodes of transport and business, shopping and entertainment options. Alongside 90

Kalathinanan added that the Hotel Ambica Empire had already been recognised for its F&B, hospitality and service with three awards - Premium Business Hotel of the year 2010-11, issued by Golden Star awards, The Best Three Star Hotel of the year 2012 in Tamil Nadu, issued by South Indian Hospitality Award and the Best Valued Business Hotel of the year

2012 by Travel and Tourism Awards.Late last year, the Ambica Group also launched a 34-room three star property in Vishakhapatnam called Hotel Ambica Sea Green. Kalathinathan informed, “One of the key features in this hotel are the Aquarium rooms, which have aquariums at the entrance of the room. Additionally, the hotel is designed in such a way as to take advantage of the serene sea views.” Ambica Group of Hotels is on a major expansion spree at the moment with 10 hotels coming up in different states, with the latest being a three star property coming up in Hyderabad shortly.

Changing price with time Contd. from page 8

other officials. “It is really a moment of great pride for me to have worked behind the scene with my devoted team of colleagues in the IATO secretariat. It is their expertise, quality, and commitment that gives me courage and confidence. Together, we deliver the best to IATO,” said Gour Kanjilal,

Executive Director, IATO. “Our main job is to ensure sponsorship from States, Ministry of Tourism, private promotions and ensure IATO stands financially strong. The Convention gets maximum presence of delegates through follow-up, so that it becomes the members’ own show and they participate actively. We do not expect any accolade or people to go gaga over our work. What we do is part of our job and we get satisfaction doing that,” he added.

have seen an addition in supply of new hotels, he added. Throwing light on the sluggish growth in the sector, Raymond Bickson, Managing Director, Indian Hotels Company opined, “With rising operating costs, it has become imperative for companies to manage baselines. The market is changing, but we also have fixed perational costs. The legacy of the hotel is difficult to change in these changing times.” Most hoteliers, however, do believe that supply would create demand. “To keep up with the challenging times, we ought to choose our locations carefully. The Oberoi group’s RevPAR has increased 14 per cent in south Mumbai. To boost demand, we are also trying to have a good marketing mix,” Kapil Chopra, President, Oberoi Group confirmed. The luxury hotel chain has announced special offers such as a complimen-

Rajeev Kaul

Kapil Chopra

President Leela Hotels and Resorts

President Oberoi Group

Our strategy will be to maintain the market share and look at subsegments carefully tary third-night stay with a booking for two nights, an additional room for two chil-

The Oberoi group’s RevPAR has increased 14 per cent in South Mumbai dren and a complimentary third room with a booking for two rooms.

NEWS

IATO DAILIES 2013 – DAY 3

TRAVTALK

A big year for India’s convention industry Chander Mansharamani, Vice Chairman, India Convention Promotion Bureau (ICPB) talks about the recent initiatives taken for boosting MICE, and how the convention industry will be given export status. TT B U R E AU

his fiscal year has begun on a good note for the convention industry. “India has been ranked 25th in the best convention destinations of the world. This ranking

the idea is to finish the roadshows by the end of March 2014. Anand Kumar, ICPB Chairman and Joint Secretary, Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, is in touch with the state officials for the same,” he confirmed.

Also, ICPB recently had a meeting with the Additional Secretary, Ministry of Commerce in June. “They have agreed to give the convention industry an 'export industry' status soon. This will be a game changer for the industry,” he added. ICPB has geared up for its 25th year of existence with a slew of initiatives that will be rolled out in the next few months. “

Chander Mansharamani Vice Chairman ICPB

was given by ICCA in its last AMEX meet in May. Last year, India ranked at 33rd position. Hence, this is a big gain,” Mansharamani revealed in an exclusive interview with .

We have already done a research on the economic impact on a particular city when it hosts a convention. Post this, we will do regional workshops during the 25th year of ICPB in most state capitals. The idea is to involve the state governments and private stakeholders for these workshops. Earlier, people

were talking about the usefulness of conventions, but nobody really had approached the states to educate them on the economic benefits of the same,” the Vice Chairman said. Along with the regional workshops, ICPB will host roadshows in many cities. “We will invite local buyers and enlighten them on how they should bid for international exhibitions and how

ICPB can help them in preparing such bidding documents,” he informed. The roadshows will be conducted in six cities starting with Mumbai in August. This will be followed by Chennai, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Chandigarh and Jaipur in the coming months. The order in which ICPB will host the roadshows will also depend on the availability of the state governments, but

Most of the foreign organisations feel there are two roadblocks to bring international conferences to India. Firstly, there are many permissions required and secondly, the visa rules need to be made less stringent. Regarding this, ICPB had a meeting with the Chief Secretary, Govt. of Maharashtra and Principal SecretaryTourism, Govt. of Maharashtra and

decided that a nodal agency for one-window clearance is needed to grant all these permissions In principle, Maharashtra Govt. has agreed they will appoint Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC) as a nodal agency for getting all the permissions, he elaborated. “In Delhi, we are requesting the Ministry of Home Affairs to appoint ICPB as nodal agency for visa purposes,” he added. Regarding manpower training, Mansharamani opined, “To bid for international MICE, international standards for training is imperative.”

HOTELS

TRAVTALK IATO DAILIES 2013 – DAY 3

BRYS offers unique jungle-like experience It combines raw nature in the form of caves and modern aesthetics to offer a distinctive holiday that is both wild and luxurious at the same time. Its 37 ‘wildly’ designed caves include Shivalik Cave, King Cave, Queen Cave and a Grand Tree House. TT B U R E AU

RYS Hotels, a Rahul Gaur enterprise, has taken leisure and business travel to a new level. The new BRYS caves, situated near Jim Corbett National Park is well poised to emerge as a serene getaway from the hectic city life. Encapsulating the typical jungle experience, the BRYS caves combine raw nature in the form of caves and modern aesthetics to offer a distinctive holiday that is both wild and luxurious at the same time.

The other offerings at BRYS caves include, Czar– Bar & Discotheque with a wide selection of wines and beverages. Timberland - The Restaurant, offers a varied range of cuisines. For the uninitiated, BRYS GROUP has business interests in five distinct areas including real estate, hospitality, medicare, advertising and hotels. Its other properties include massive BRYS FORT in Jaisalmer. While BRYS FORT encapsulates the legendry medieval Rajputana grandeur, BRYS CAVES is an ultra-luxurious resort with soul of the wild. Its third property, a boutique Business Hotel, BRYS ELAN is only few minutes away from Delhi’s border and is slated for its inauguration shortly.

Navneet Kaur Bhadla Director, BRYS

The BRYS Haveli is a two-storeyed luxurious bungalow, with services to match its ostentatious décor BRYS Fort has created several theme evenings and fun activities for its corporate

clients. These include camel rides and fun-filled evenings with folk performers with Jaisalmer’s breathtaking sand dunes serving as a backdrop. The BRYS Haveli is a two-storeyed luxurious bungalow, with services to match its ostentatious décor. Hindola Mahal and Ras Mahal are two premium suites on

the property. The hotel also has 36 Deluxe Rooms and a large corporate group can book all when checking into BRYS Fort for its MICE activities. There are plans to add 42 more rooms to this inventory by February 2013. Groups coming to the hotel can also choose to stay in tents under the clear, pollu-

tion-free Jaisalmer sky. BRYS Fort also has vintage cars available for drives around the hotel’s premises.

Tapping MICE O BRYS Fort has created several theme evenings and fun activities for its corporate clients

Eyeing South America Swagatam Tours launched www.swagatamonline.com, a B2B model to make most of online business opportunities. T T B U R E AU

on internet - rates and availability on internet has reduced the hotel segment of our business drastically. In view of the new business pattern we have also launched www.swagatamonline.com- a B2B model of business to remain in competition,” said Sarkar.

wagatam Tours had always exceeded the traveler’s expectation and in return had grown faster then the industry average. Today, when the travel and hospitality players had been left in a lurch due to dwindling profitability, Swagatam continues to perform better then its peers. “Swagatam Tours had completed 27 years of successful operations. We have been doing modest business since our inception, grown more than our expectations. The present economic scenario in tourism has not been so far a good ride and for the past few years growth is stand still. However, we are still in a position to generate a positive balance sheet, said Pronab Sarkar, Managing Director, Swagatam Tours. “Most of our inbound originate from Europe, Middle East, Far East and Americas. We are now trying to get into the South American market, which is emerging as a new source market,” he added. In fact, staying in line with the growing online appeal, Swagatam Tours has

Pronab Sarkar Managing Director Swagatam Tours

We are now getting into the South American market, which is emerging as a new source market created launched an online platform to leverage its niche in the B2B space. “The new generation of internet business B2B and B2C is the current threat of business for inbound tour operators. Cut throat competition in hotel rates by the big portal companies and direct marketing by hotels

Sarkar also has some important suggestions for the policymakers. “I would emphasis on vigorous marketing of our products abroad to attract foreign tourists, better infrastructure - road, rail and air connectivity, easy visa policy for foreign tourists, lower Government taxes on tourism product shall help boost tourism to India.” “To double the employment and investment in the Tourism sector, The State Government should declare Tourism as an Industry and inbound tourism should also be treated as ‘Export of Services’ to boost foreign exchange earnings for the country and get the benefits of Industry and exemptions as exporters. We shall achieve double the tourists visiting our country within next few years,” he added.

ANALYSIS

TRAVTALK IATO DAILIES 2013 – DAY 3

Silver lining for senior citizen holidays With most travel agencies offering customised packages for elderly travellers, ‘silver citizens' in India have a reason to cheer this holiday season despite the gloomy outlook. ﬁnds out... TT B U R E AU

long with many travel agencies, Thomas Cook India has recently announced its senior citizen holidays cre-

short-hauls like Mauritius, Sri Lanka, Far East and Dubai. “At Thomas Cook India, senior citizens form a key and growing segment,” says Madhav Pai, Former Director

Group Show A large number of seniors prefer to travel in groups as they like the company of fellow travellers who are young and can give them company, claims Anand. Sethi agrees, “They are nervous about travelling alone and need to travel in a group, properly escorted. Many of them avoid fixed departures and opt for customised packages, which are not very hectic. We organise group departures for them for Hong Kong, Macau, Thailand, China, Egypt and Europe.” ated especially for those in their 60s and above. Top-selling destinations include

- Leisure Travel (Outbound), Thomas Cook India, “The packages have been designed to suit the requirements of the senior traveller.” Speaking on the initiative, Pai says, “We have observed that today’s senior citizens have a

Madhav Pai

Karan Anand

Madan Kak

Rajesh Sethi

Director - Leisure Travel (Outbound), Thomas Cook India

Head, Relationships Cox and Kings

COO-Tours Minar Travels

Managing Director Carnation Travel Services

At Thomas Cook India, senior citizens form a key and a growing segment youthful outlook towards travel and are happy to experiment with group tours, with their family members as well as just themselves. Our

We offer them flights that take off late in the evening, with minimum stop-overs luxury brand ‘Indulgence’ has seen strong growth via anniversary trips for this segment, to exotic destinations such as Hong Kong, Philippines, Bali and Japan.” Thomas Cook India’s ‘personalised holidays’ create special tailor-made itineraries ensuring focus on easy-paced sight-seeing, adequate stops for rest and comfort breaks. Typically, half day sight-seeing tours are included rather than full-day tours. Also, special meals are served as per their health and dietary requirements. According to Pai, “The combination of early retirement, high disposable income and healthy lifestyle has created room for more leisure time, which has created strong demand for travel. Our trend analysis has revealed that approximately 15% of our individual traveller segment will comprise senior citizens.” When Cox and Kings designs tours for senior citizens, they look at many aspects. “We offer them flights that take off late in the evening, with minimum stopovers. Otherwise, they end up spending time in the airport at night. Accommodation is provided on lower floors and hotels in the city centre are booked. We have dedicated

They love relaxing holidays with a bit of sightseeing thrown in

Offering a discounted package to this agegroup is a challenge

staff on call, in case of any emergencies,” says Karan Anand, Head, Relationships, Cox and Kings, adding, “Dietary requirements are taken care of. We ensure that they walk less and provide

says Madan Kak, COO-Tours, Minar Travels. “Then there are those who prefer to combine holidays with religious activities. We offer them a Golden

Tough Calls Most travel agents agree that catering to silver travellers is a challenge. Pai’s team has to carefully screen hotels and offer accommodation choices that have wheel chair and doctor-on-call facilities. Also, rooms need to be allocated close to elevators or at the ground level. For Kak, the most important challenge is related to his clients’ medical needs. “Even though we do not take any customers without a valid insurance, at times, customers need medical attention when the policy is less than two years old. Diet, too, is crucial. We have an option of Indian vegetarian meals and even Jain meals on all our trips abroad. Also, it is a standard practice to provide a tour manager who speaks a regional language in addition to English,” says Kak. For Rajesh Sethi, Managing Director, Carnation Travel Services, offering a discounted package to this age-group is a challenge. “The cost goes up since all transfers have to be escorted. But this client is also price-sensitive, who often ends up with an inferior package on the basis of false premises.” them transport to the nearest entry point at monuments etc.” In the domestic sector, Minar Travels specialises in selling destinations like Himachal, Kashmir, Ooty and Darjeeling to silver travellers. “They love relaxing holidays with a bit of sightseeing thrown in. A shikara ride on Dal Lake for three hours and a flask of tea/coffee with light snacks, is the kind of option we offer to senior citizens,”

Triangle tour with a pit-stop at Varanasi to visit temples and watch the evening aarti by the Ganges. For those who want an extended holiday, an hour-long flight takes them to the Himalayan Kingdom of Nepal. A temple tour of Char Dhams is for those who can withstand strenuous journeys. A five-night tour of Vaishno Devi and Durbar Sahib in Amritsar is also popular,” says Kak.

Asia's hotel transaction volumes skyrocket 85% Hotel transaction volumes within Asia reached US$1.3 billion in this year, representing an 85 per cent year-on-year increase over 2012. Strong investment in Singapore, Hong Kong, Tokyo, Thailand and Maldives markets were the main engines for growth in the first half of the year.

HOTELS

IATO DAILIES 2013 – DAY 3

TRAVTALK

Terraces, Kanatal woos weekend crowd It has launched ‘short-breaks’ tours for foreign nationals and NRIs. Their inbound division has chalked out a varied number of tours to suit a traveller’s choice of destination, budget and dates. T T B U R E AU

anatal, a quaint little hamlet in Uttaranchal state, located just 300 kilometers, or 6-7 hours journey by road from Delhi is perched at an altitude of over 8,500 feet. Kanatal offers a spectacular view of the snow-clad Garhwal Himalayas and lush green forests. The Terraces, Kanatal has been operational since the last nine years and has even won accolades from Trip Advisor’s - 2013 Certificate of Excellence 2nd time in row. Occupying prime location on the Chamba Mussoorie highway, the high point of the year at Kanatal occurs between December and February, when over 50 inches of powder snow carpets its areas, creating a spectacular Cottonwood Canyon and transforms the landscape into a ravishing white wonderland. The Terraces offers the most breath taking views of the highest mountains, a serene and mesmerizing environment accompanied with endearing hospitality and an extra ordinarily private space are the main highlights of the property. The property not only offers a billion dollar view, snow clad Himalayas can be viewed from every nook and corner of The Place, not the least, nearest snow destination from Delhi. And of course, best of services - the personal touch.

The Terraces comprises 8 deluxe rooms, 12 superdeluxe rooms and a luxury suite, each of which offer tourists a pleasant view of dazzling white snow-clad peaks. Besides, usuals like Outdoor Bar, Multi Cuisine F&B outlets, Best of Rejuvenating Therapies, The Terraces believes in providing lots of 'Out of Box' recreations instantly; to name a few; Night Treks, Night Safaris along with picnics,

creating theme parties, Outdoor Dry Massages etc. They also provide a wide choice of team-building exercises for both business travellers, such as trekking, camping, paragliding, rafting, and night picnics in sev-

eral forests as well as places of tourist interest located in the vicinity of the resort. Promoting themselves aggressively as a weekend destination with strong connections within the Travel Trade all over India and

abroad, good wishes of guests, associate promoters and their support has taken them to heights. They believe staunchly that they need to be innovative at all times. Room revenues are not enough to maintain highs.

TRAVTALK IATO DAILIES 2013 – DAY 3

STATES

AP invests in tourism and connectivity The state body is introducing new airports and hotels to enhance tourist accessibility and promote new destinations. It further plans to work closely with travel agents as partners. reports. TT B UREAU

ith an aim to improve destination awareness in domestic and global markets, Andhra Pradesh Tourism is undertaking various initiatives on both PPP and government’s modes. AP Tourism Development Corporation (APTDC) has earmarked ` 1,000 crore investment in the public-private-partnership (PPP) mode for developing tourism infrastructure in the state. The state government is focussing on the development of new and unexplored destinations, and seeks to attract tourists from the

Travel agents connection We at AP Tourism understand the pivotal role that agents play as travel intermediaries in extending the tourist season of a state/ destination. They hold a far greater influence to create a new demand or to expand the present demand. We intend to work in close partnership with the travel Chandana Khan Chairperson & MD, agents and tour operators both Andhra Pradesh Tourism nationally and internationally in Development Corporation order to promote virgin locations. That is why we have been organising fam and tours for not only travel and tour operators, but also travel agents. already popular destinations such as Tirupati and Hyderabad. Besides upgrading infrastructure, the corporation is also promoting awareness about its attractive tourist locations by marketing and promotional activities within

the State and at the national level. A sum of close to ` 40 crore is likely to be spent on marketing in this fiscal. The corporation plans to offer promotional packages that are woven around themes such as culture, art, cuisine, dance, rural, water sports, textiles, etc, informed Chandana Khan, Chairperson & MD, Andhra Pradesh Tourism Development

Corporation. AP’s tourism development plans are being supported by the Union Tourism Ministry which has already sanctioned ` 221 crore towards it. Besides, the state is also expecting investment to the tune of ` 58 crore for new projects. The APTDC is also developing a Tirupati Convention Centre at a cost of ` 70 crore. The domestic tourist footfall in the state for 2012-13 was 15.31 crore with the state also receiving 2.9 lakh foreign visitors in the same period. The State Government plans to build coastal corridors along the Vizag-Bheemunipatnam sea front and the VizagVizianagaram-Srikakulam Regional circuit with an investment of ` 175 crore. Also to be developed are eight new beach properties in the Srikakulam, Vizianagaram, east Godavari, west Godavari, Prakasam and Nellore districts of Andhra Pradesh. This year, APTDC has decided to focus on the unex-

Maharashtra connection The state tourism board recently tied up with Maharashtra to jointly promote and develop tourist circuits in the states. According to Khan, there are several common tourism features such as Buddhism and films among the two neighbouring states which their governments can jointly explore. APTDC has also announced certain exclusive packages for travellers from Maharashtra plored destinations like Araku, Horsely Hills, Nagarjunasagar and Dindi, etc. besides special destinations like Tirupati and Hyderabad. Khan said, “We are running campaigns in different media for awareness and to attract more visitors and induce them to explore new tourist locations. We have revamped and relaunched our website which is now more user-friendly and provides online guidance to tourists and facilitates online booking. Considering the exponential growth in the use of internet, we plan to tap various social networking sites to promote these destinations across generations.” According to Khan, Andhra Pradesh has good

infrastructure and well-connected transport system. The state has got the highest number of commercial airports with as many as five airports, where regular passenger flights are being operated (Hyderabad, Visakahpatnam, Rajahmundry, Vijaywada and Tirupati). Besides, there are new airports expected to be ready at Cuddapah, Warangal and Guntur soon. APTDC has also been running various tourist properties across the state under the brand name – Haritha. It is looking at opening more resorts under the brand at virgin locations with less or no options for lodging to boost tourism.

AGENTS

Focus on domestic tourism To introduce its first property by end of 2014 in Cochin; Abia Tours is hunting for the right hospitality management partner for the same. T T B U R E AU

ith the rupee volatility impacting the Indian travel industry, Mumbaibased Abia Tours is focussed on domestic and inbound tourism. With branches in New Delhi, Cochin, Chennai and Bengaluru (soon to have offices in Malaysia, Middle East, Far East and Europe); the company intends to consolidate domestic market and offer unique packages with excellent price range to every segment of traveller. The company specialises in North and South India, especially Kerala and Leh-Ladakh and have fixed-departure packages for multiple Indian destinations. It also manages FIT and group packages, corporate conferences, incentive tours, theme-based parties, off site meets and many more services in India. Talking about the fluctuating rupee and impact on Indian tourism, Shashidharan U, Director, Abia Tours said, “The domestic market is showing signs of slowdown, but I’m sure our industry will

Shashidharan U Director Abia Tours

The domestic market is showing signs of slowdown, but I’m sure our industry will sail through this period sail through this period. We are anticipating that the market will get back to normal with excellent growth signs in coming months. With

depreciating rupee, the inbound tourism season is looking excellent and we intend to tap this market through unique deals and packages. Our mission is to provide the very best deals for outstation tour operators by offering them very competitive hotel rates in India and abroad to make their holiday packages more attractive and cost-effective.” The group company – Ullatil Hospitality and Projects is in process of developing a deluxe five-star property in Cochin by end of 2014. For the same, it is also contemplating a hotel management firm to operate and run the property. Shashidharan informed that the 120-key property would act as an excellent gateway for travellers looking out for pure backwaters and luxury experience in Kerala. He said, “The property will showcase the real Kerala experience. It will have 16 cottages while the rooms would also be big enough as compared to a standard five-star deluxe hotel room. The smallest room size would be around 500 sq ft.”

For a desert experience The Royal Desert Camp is located 42 km from Jaisalmer. It has 30 Deluxe tents, 8 Super Deluxe tents and 1 Cottage with all modern amenities. T T B U R E AU

he tents are spacious and are provided with roundthe-clock services, making desert holidays in Jaisalmer to be a truly rewarding experience. All the tents have attached toilets with running water and hand showers. Running water is provided not only at base camp, but also on the mobile camps while on a camel safari, enabling the guests to have a good shower after a dusty safari. Besides catering to the basic comfort for travellers, it also expends great effort to make the experience complete. As far as innovative

outdoor recreation is concerned, few can match the Royal Desert Camps repertoire of recreational avenues. Every evening a bonfire is lit up around which guests are seated and enjoy the enchanting folk dance and music of Rajasthan. Puppet shows are an outright hit with the young crowd. The dining tent caters to large groups and has a seating capacity of 80 to 90 guests. The camp offers a unique and distinguished experience to enjoy an evening while on a safari – camp fire with live entertainment by the ‘kalbeliya’ dancers. Trips to the nearby wild desert national park (Subject to administration

Permission) are also conducted by camps / jeep safari. Exclusive camel safaris too are operated. The safaris often bypass intriguing Rajasthani villages and guests are provided with a fabulous opportunity to come face to face with the nomadic folks of the desert who lead an enchanting lifestyle. The perfect time to visit the golden city is during the Desert Festival held in Jan/Feb every year. There are folk dances, exciting competitions and contests, especially the turban-tying contest. Desert contest and camel races enliven the festivals colourful craft bazaars are set up for the occasion and a sound and light spectacle is organised.

TRAVTALK IATO DAILIES 2013 – DAY 3

ATTRACTIONS

ANALYSIS

TRAVTALK IATO DAILIES 2013 – DAY 3

For business, head back to school With the education tour segment market in India to be worth ` 1,000 crore, the travel fraternity is increasingly looking at this new avenue for business. speaks to industry veterans to know more... M EGHA PAUL

he tourism industry has realised that students are a powerful long-term investment for destinations. A large number of travel agents and tour operators are, thus cashing in on this opportunity.

The money churner segment According to Karan Anand, Head-Relationships, Cox & Kings, the education tour segment market in India can be pegged to be over worth `1,000 crore and is seeing a double-digit growth. Nearly 60 per cent of revenue contribution for Cox & Kings

India comes from outbound travel. Domestic travel contributes about 22 per cent and is growing fast while business travel accounts for 9-10 per cent. The remainder comes from inbound travellers. India is the largest market for the group, and as it rolls out the education travel concept, the company believes it will see faster growth. The company acquired Holidaybreak about 19 months ago. “One reason why we made this acquisition was because we wanted to roll out this concept in India and Australia and other South Asian regions. We hope that by next financial year, our first centre will be up and running in India. The concept will be identical to what we do in the UK. We expect to price it in the range of

Karan Anand

Madhavan Menon

Head-relationships Cox & Kings

Managing Director Thomas Cook (India)

We believe there is a huge potential in this segment, which is currently fragmented and managed by small operators

With a more hands-on and experiential approach to education today, travel itself is a delightful tutor ` 2,500 a night and do not want this to be elitist,” he reveals. “We will start with the Southern market, but the North will also be a huge source. The only deviation will be that we will offer similar programmes for adult education, which will focus on team and leadershipbuilding experiences. We believe there is huge potential in this segment, which is currently fragmented and managed by small operators. We are looking at three regions to develop these centres-Mumbai, Pune and Gujarat, the Rishikesh region and the Delhi NCR-Jaipur region. The idea is to develop these centres within three hours of driving distance from the city,” he adds. Regarding the challenges the segment is witnessing, Anand reveals, “Within Europe, education tours are an integral part of the curriculum and students take these trips and write reports at the end of tours. In India, such tours are not part of the education policy till now. So, yes, there is a challenge in promoting educational trips in India. But now, several schools in India are taking a step forward and appreciating the point that it is essential to deliver an integrated learning and development experience to students. Obviously, there would be some challenges initially but we believe eventually both the stakeholders (schools and parents) would emerge strong supporters of such trips.” For Thomas Cook (India), the student segment is a strong emerging market.

“With a more hands-on and experiential approach to education today, travel itself is a delightful tutor. At Thomas Cook India, our ‘Travel & Learn’ vertical was launched to harness this potential. Our packages offer as out of school experiential learning concept—tours combining education and fun to ensure that young minds are challenged and opened to newer ideas. These tours cater to teachers and faculties as well, by helping them understand different ways of imparting knowledge to young minds,” Madhavan Menon, Managing Director – Thomas Cook (India) informs.

Domestic trails Says Capt. Swadesh Kumar, Managing Director, Shikhar Travels, “There is huge potential for educational tours in India. It is an extremely important market for the

summer months. Tours to South India are also popular, especially for Kerala. Another popular destination is Rajasthan and we also receive requests for Maharashtra,” he adds.

From history to adventure In the recent times, there has been a shift to adventure and experiential holidays from the conventional historical tours. “Even though visiting a new destination itself is an educational experience for the students, they are more interested in participative trips rather than visiting historical sites and monuments. In this context, the company has seen a growing demand of trekking trips in the Himalayas, rafting trips on the Ganges, etc. As far as the overseas trips are concerned, even though there is a demand, it is not

Capt. Swadesh Kumar

Amaresh Tiwari

Managing Director Shikhar Travels

Managing Director A.T Seasons & Vacations Travel

We have handled over 8,000 students during 201112 for tours within the country company. Shikhar Travels has been focussing on the school segment for the domestic market mainly and we have handled over 8,000 students during 2011-12 for tours within the country. For the last year, there was a decline in this business. Many institutions are now coming up with their own travel division and thus, looking after these tours directly.” Currently, the company garners 25 per cent of its business from educational tours. “Most popular programmes which are offered in North India are Corbett National Park for tiger viewing, Amritsar for Wagah Border and Golden Temple or visiting Shimla, Dalhousie and other hill stations, etc. in the

The challenge lies in persuading the school as this segment of travel needs proactive participation very big. Whenever there is such demand, it is mainly based on places of historical and scientific importance. For example- we had handled a team of students who visited Egypt to visit the pyramids. Similarly, there is a demand for students to visit NASA or Dubai,” Kumar confirms.

Seasonal yet qualitative Amaresh Tiwari, Managing Director, A.T Seasons & Vacations Travel opines, “Education tours should be made an integral part of curriculum in India as well. This gives exposure and confidence to the children,” he adds.

TRAVTALK IATO DAILIES 2013 – DAY 3

CLIPBOARD

FAMILY ALBUM

TRAVTALK IATO DAILIES 2013 – DAY 3

TRAVTALK TV heralds a new era

With the guest count spiralling upwards of 450, the launch of TRAVTALK TV was most definitely a first in the history of travel trade journalism. Along with travel agents, there were dignitaries, path-breakers, chairmen and CEOs from travel, aviation, hospitality, tour operators, and government heavyweights to share the excitement of an event of this magnitude. A veritable list of who’s who, everybody who was anybody in the travel trade industry was seen at the launch of TRAVTALK TV.

Vikramajit Chairman SanJeet Editor & Publisher Deepa Sethi Editor-in-Chief

Editorial Ratan Kr Paul Vivek Sethi Megha Paul Devika Jeet Anita Jain Lyandra D’Souza News-Editor Peden Doma Bhutia Desk-Editor Archana Sharma Sr. Sub-Editor Hritvick Sen Photographers Simran Kaur-Delhi

Marketing Gunjan Sabikhi Harshal Ashar Aarti Nagrath Shovan Kanungo Karishma Khanna Geetika Pathak Baljinder Singh Monika Malhotra Anju Khattar Manish Singh Priyanshu Wankhade Amit Sarkar Gaganpreet Kaur Rishika Karra Elizabeth Rani

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