Micetalk November 2013

Rs. 100

Volume IV Issue 11 November 2013 60 pages A DDP Publication

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DDP Publications Private Limited New Delhi: 72, Todarmal Road, New Delhi 110001, India Tel: +91 11 41669575, 41669576 Fax: +91 11 41669577 E-mail: micetalk@ddppl.com Mumbai: 504 Marine Chambers, 43 New Marine Lines, Mumbai 400 020, India Tel: +91-22-22070129, 22070130 Fax: +91-22-22070131 E-mail: mumbai@ddppl.com UAE: P.O. Box: 9348, Sharjah, UAE Tel: +971 6 5528954, Fax: +971 6 5528956 E-mail: uae@ddppl.com All information in MICEtalk is derived from sources, which we consider reliable. Information is passed on to our readers without any responsibility on our part. The contents of this publication contain views of authors and are not the views of DDP Publications.

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Fairmont Jaipur

Publisher & Editor

SanJeet

Editor-in-Chief

Deepa Sethi

Desk Editor

Neelam Singh

Correspondent

Neha Oberoi

Photographer

Simran Kaur

Design

Pooja Kalra

Advertising

Gunjan Sabikhi Geetika Pathak Shovan Kanungo Udit Pandey Yogita Bhurani

Advertisement Designer

Vikas Mandotia Nitin Kumar Aarushi Agrawal

Production Manager

Anil Kharbanda

Circulation Manager

Ashok Rana

MUMBAI: Advertising

Harshal Ashar

reader’s

PAGE Dear Reader,

8

With the weather getting cooler and more pleasant and the fall of the rupee against the greenback, India is actually seeing a rise in tourism figures, especially for MICE, not only from international destinations but also domestically. Corporate houses are preferring to travel for their events within the country rather than flying to distant shores at the cost of much larger bucks, due to the exchange rate. It’s a big point for discussion… read our Let’s Talk section.

MICEtalk spoke to some of the Indian destination management companies and tourism industry leaders about their opinion on expectations of today’s clients and the advantages and disadvantages of MICE events held in India.

We bring you their opinions in the cover story of this issue.

When you talk about India, Yoga cannot be far behind. With the popularity of India’s wellness and spiritual tourism growing at a very healthy rate, Zambhala is a unique Yoga festival being organised in Goa in December.

And if you have to travel far, then let’s go all the way to Australia and New Zealand. Both the countries are putting great efforts to building the MICE infrastructure and making incentive travel more exciting. And now with Air India flying the Dreamliner to Australia since August 2013, it has become easier for MICE and incentive groups to reach these countries conveniently.

We also have our experts tell us the right way to shake hands at a business event, and be more systematic while travelling… On that note I wish you all Happy Reading!

Deepa Sethi

to the editor...

“MICEtalk is a magazine that is developing its focus on technology and social media with great intent. And since here, at Internet Moghul, it has always been our belief that technology and social media are the leading trends for the MICE industry, we enjoy the magazine and the Tech Talk articles and have even contributed to them.”

Cheers Avijit Avijit Arya, Chief Mogul, Internet Moguls

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36

contents Cover Story

Profiling India as a MICE destination

12

24



Facts

 MICE Country Australia

 MICE Initiative Melbourne lures MICE travellers

 Let’s Talk Dollar fluctuation makes India more attractive for MICE

 Incentive Talk Incentives Galore in New Zealand

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 Domestic MICE Kochi

 Your’s Officially Reem Khokhar, Regional Manager, VisitEngland

 Event Talk MITT, Russia

 Expert Talk Life Management

 Hotel Talk ITC Grand Chola, Chennai

 Etiquette Talk Tips for the Right Handshake

 Technology Providing exhibitors with revenue generating leads

 Movements  Events

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Madame Tussauds Museum to open in Beijing in 2014

FACTS

Malaysia expecting Unique Venue by 2015

China will have its fourth Madame Tussauds waxwork museum open next year in central Beijing, close to Tiananmen Square. The attraction will include a range of Chinese and international celebrities from the worlds of sport, politics, movies and TV, with no ropes or barriers separating guests from the figures.

The Golden Bridge – a future icon in recognition of Sarawak’s 50th Golden Jubilee Year, is set to be a potential unique venue for cocktail parties and themed events for that value-added experience Sarawak has to offer. Named Golden Bridge in recognition of Sarawak’s 50th Golden Jubilee Year of independence from British rule, it measures 400m long and looms 12m above the water. The S-shape structural design was inspired by the meandering rivers in the state.

‘Thailand CONNECT’ campaign to boost MICE tourism

The Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) unveiled ‘Thailand CONNECT, a global marketing campaign for corporate buyers and meetings organisers to promote Thailand as a premier MICE destination. The campaign will focus on three key aspects – diversity of Thai destinations, unrivalled business opportunities, and the high quality of Thailand’s MICE professionals.

It is accompanied by a number of specific promotional packages that will extend financial support to MICE events and delegates attending MICE events in Thailand, depending on their country of origin and duration.

Rail Europe’s mobile app acts as a travel guide Rail Europe has launched a new mobile app which is available on Android and iOS platforms.

One of its striking features is the ‘Station Guide’ which contains details of over 70 stations on the Rail Europe network. It also comes with a map that’s linked to Google Maps or Apple Plan, which makes navigation easier. Its best feature is a section for FAQs and help. If a passenger (Indian) posts a question in Europe, it immediately connects to the Indian Support Centre for further assistance.

facts

‘China Products Exhibition’ in Mumbai to boost trading opportunities The 11th edition of ‘China Products (Mumbai, India) Exhibition’ will take place from November 26–28, 2013 at the Bombay Convention and Exhibition Centre, Goregaon (East), Mumbai, India.

This unique trade expo showcases more than 40 industries and will have an added attraction in the form of a Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) pavilion where companies from Hong Kong will showcase their products.

Providing complimentary business matching services, the Exhibition assists Indian businesses in meeting their future business partners from China and Hong Kong.

facts

Sydney to host the AYTE in 2014

FACTS

Sydney has been chosen as the host destination for the 2014 Australian Youth Tourism Exchange (AYTE). Held over three days from May 2022, 2014, Sydney will host the event for the second time. The event includes scheduled workshop appointments between distributors and suppliers, networking events and postevent familiarisations. In addition to AYTE, the annual Australian Backpacker & Youth Industry Conference (ABYIC) will be held in conjunction with the event.

Revolution in Event Communications

MarketingConnect is an integrated marketing automation solution, designed to utilise event and attendee behaviour information gathered from other GenieConnect tools to generate relevant & personalised content, which is then channelled through attendee communications channels like email, in app and push messages. This allows event organisers to send highly targeted and relevant information to attendees to maximise engagement throughout the entire event life cycle.

Perfect Meeting Package by Hilton

‘Work Now, Stay Later’ offer by Starwood Hotels

Starwood Hotels & Resorts, one of the world’s largest luxury and upper-scale hotel, launches its latest meetings offer ‘Work Now, Stay Later’ with over 200 participating Starwood hotels in Asia-Pacific valid until December 31, 2013 for meetings uptill March 31, 2014.

As part of this promotion, members of the Starwood Preferred Planner (SPP) will get one free night’s stay to be credited to their accounts, for every 50 room nights that they book. This is in addition to the Starpoints® they will earn through revenue generated by the Group booking.

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MICEtalk November 2013

Hilton Bandung launched two innovative, exciting and carbon-neutral corporate events programmes that creatively incorporate the destination into the programmes. For the Perfect Balance Meeting package, Hilton Bandung has hitched one end of this initiative to Bandung Treetop, a team-spirit and corporate bonding specialist offering adrenaline-charged zip-line flights, obstacles courses, tests of strength and gravity-defying Tarzan leaps through the lush rainforest and cool dense woodlands of Bandung.

ProďŹ lingIndia as a MICE destination Neha Oberoi

cover story

Fairmont Jaipur

Much has been said in the last couple of years and in our previous issues about the great potential of MICE in a country and how it helps boost the economy. In this issue, we are focussing on India, the promise it carries and the severity of the challenges it faces. Read onâ&#x20AC;Ś

T

he commerce of MICE holds a lot of allure for any country. Going just by the ballpark ďŹ gures, a single person travelling for business purposes spends approximately 5 times more than a leisure traveller.

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cover story

Incentive destinations in India Anup Nair, President, Site India Chapter, opines, “There are separate segments that constitute MICE. If it’s a large Meeting, Conference or Event, the bigger cities (with good flight connections) and sometimes even smaller ones may be selected. It is the purpose and objective of the event that will dictate this. The situation with Incentives is different.

The places we promote for incentives are where ‘experiences’ can be delivered and a ‘wow’ impact created. The most popular destinations are the Golden Triangle (Delhi, Agra and Jaipur) and also other regions in Rajasthan – Samode, Neemrana, Jodhpur, and of course, Udaipur. Incentive trips to Kerala are very regular and Mumbai and Goa are also quite popular. Bangalore, Chennai and Mahabalipuram are also on the circuit, but not that common.”

Expectations from a venue The Indian MICE industry comes with dynamic business opportunities and splendid venues for events, exhibitions, conferences and meetings. Evidently, the travel industry is thriving due to a phenomenal rise in MICE activities.

While talking about India’s MICE industry, Sudeep Sarcar, General Manager, India Exposition Mart Ltd, shares, “We are witnessing the emergence of new destinations within the country. We are also seeing second-tier cities developing quickly and attracting MICE business from major cities such as Mumbai and Delhi. This is further fuelled by the opening of new hotels with MICE facilities, increasing the focus of DMCs. At the moment, I would agree that India’s MICE industry is fragmented, with less specialisation than some other destinations.”

He believes that the main challenge, currently faced by the industry, is the global economic climate which has encouraged meetings industry suppliers to become a lot more resourceful to generate the greatest return on investment. He further informs that, “In the present scenario, the organiser basically wants a one-window operation from the venue so that they may save time and energy from approaching one department to another to meet their requirements. Also, since an exhibition centre caters to exhibitors and visitors from both India and abroad, the organisers expect the facilities to be world-class to avoid any awkward situation in front of their clients.”

Right: India Expo Centre, Greater Noida

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cover story

Adding to the discussion, Shagun Sethi, Director - Sales & Marketing, Fairmont Jaipur, points out, “Availability of large room inventories, spacious and flexible meeting/banquet spaces and the latest technology and infrastructure attract any event organiser. A positive history of successful events, a perception of safety and security, close proximity to leisure experiences and a range of quality accommodation are also crucial.”

Today, technology largely influences venue selection because the needs of attendees differ according to the theme, purpose, location and volume. Size of a convention centre is also critical because area layouts are specifically configured to maximise lines of sight and attendee participation. The availability of comfortable and luxurious on-site accommodation is also a major influencer clubbed with an eclectic array of fine dining options.

Below: Fairmont Jaipur

On comparing India with other destinations, Sanjay Grover, General Manager, TravelSpiderTM (A division of Paharpur Business Centre), opines that, “MICE industry has a huge scope for growth and is at a nascent stage in India. It is fragmented and requires to be streamlined.

We need to have some effective strategies to make it successful.”

Discussing about the venue expectations, Sanjay updates that organisers expect a venue to be easily accessible in terms of domestic and international flights and equipped with amenities like Yoga and Ayurveda Centre, Discotheque, Spa and Health and Wellness facilities along with sports activities.

Above: Umaid Bhawan Palace, Jodhpur

Below: Spa/Wellness Centre at Lebua Lodge, Amer

“It is an added advantage if a venue is equipped with amenities like Yoga & Ayurveda Centre, Discotheque, Spa & Health and Wellness facilities along with sports activities like Tennis, Squash, Badminton, Golf Course, etc.

cover story

The need of the hour Marketing a destination

A key driver of success for a hotel and convention space is being able to market itself as an appropriate venue.

Given the requirements of its guests, the efforts involve marketing the city, highlighting the support infrastructure available and creating a unique experience for delegates.

Below: Lobby of The Leela, New Delhi

Michel Koopman, General Manager, The Leela, speaks of the same phenomenon, “Hotels are big beneficiaries of MICE business but first the destination is to be sold. It is the allure of the destination that will invite traffic and only then can we get into the nitty-gritty of convention spaces. We need people to look beyond the perception of India as a mystic place and more as a MICE destination.”

Karan Anand, Head - Relationships, Cox & Kings Ltd, voices his opinion, “India attracts its fair share of MICE movements though we could do even better. In cities such as Mumbai, Delhi and NCR or for that matter Chennai, we need more 2 and 3-star hotels that can accommodate a large number of delegates. The government should also be more liberal in granting licenses to promote nightlife as it becomes very important when choosing a MICE destination for companies.”

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MICEtalk November 2013

cover story

World-class Infrastructure India has the potential of becoming a leading MICE player, but the lack of integrated convention centres that people expect hampers the development per se.

Naveen Rizvi, Sr. Vice President- India & Head, ICE- Integrated Conference & Event Management & TUI- Meetings & Incentives, says, “Though there has been considerable improvement in the number of hotels and convention centres being opened, lack of quality infrastructure is a major concern for MICE business in India. The country offers myriad of experiences but the concentration is limited to a few places only. The Andaman & Nicobar Islands, offering exotic beach vacations on the Indian Ocean, lack good quality hotels and have extraordinary high airfares for a domestic incentive tour. Agra - the city with the world famous Taj Mahal- has good MICE potential as it is situated on the famous Golden Triangle route, however, has no direct air connectivity. Another destination which lacks infrastructure from a MICE point of view is Goa. The destination has all ranges of hotels, event venues, ample of pre-post tour options, except for a good convention centre. Only Grand Hyatt Goa offers convention facilities in its premises to accommodate up to 1000 people. Also the fixed flight arrival/departure timing in Goa is of concern for a good MICE Movement.”

cover story

Support from the government The government is providing financial support for developing international convention centres and tourism-related infrastructure but it is a process that is moving at a snail’s pace.

Priti Khanna, Chairperson, MCI Management India Pvt. Ltd., comments, “We need some standard operating procedures in place where the government steps in to provide support for conference movement. The challenge for us is not infrastructure.

That’s secondary. Major challenge is government support to make India an inviting MICE destination especially in terms of approvals, permissions, letters, etc. Given the broad canvass the support needs to come from a joint effort of all relevant stakeholders such as the government, airlines, hotels, convention centres, etc.”

Below: Terminal 3 at the Indira Gandhi International Airport, Delhi

“ India has made stupendous development in terms of infrastructure and economy and is working on upgrading its MICE facilities.”

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cover story

Sanjay Grover, GM, TravelSpiderTM, also feels that taxes including service, luxury, entertainment, sales or taxes on transportation and aviation turbine fuel, levied across the tour operators, transporters, airline industry, hotels, etc., make India an expensive MICE destination. He further elaborates, “This definitely requires a focussed approach if we want MICE to become an integral segment of the overall Tourism Industry. At present, incentive is the major component in a mature MICE market. Indian corporate world has been showing interest in taking up MICE activities since few years. These days, companies reward their employees with special tour packages to motivate them. Starting from an adventure trip to a hill station to a desert safari, one can find out ample of options to offer as incentives.

Incentive schemes have to be promoted, which is another challenge.”

Above: Taj Lake Palace, Udaipur

Umaid Bhawan Palace, Jodhpur, is one of the largest heritage style boutique hotel.

As an emerging globalised service industry, MICE is valued by the government for its high growth potential, large opportunities for employment, large industry associations and efficient utilisation of assets. India is synonymous to warm hospitality and rich cultural heritage and has a strong appeal as a MICE destination. With great hopes we can say that India is perched positively on the MICE path!

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MICEtalk November 2013

Offering Exclusive Meetings and Incentive options

Australia

country talk

Australia offers a plethora of MICE options with a bent towards innovative incentive activities. More and more business travellers are choosing it as a prime destination to add ďŹ&#x201A;avour to their incentive activities. Hereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a breakdown of the cities and the popular activities available:

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Australia oďŹ&#x20AC;ers an exceptional range of top-end corporate meeting experiences and unique incentive options that provide the perfect atmosphere to reward and energise. Australia has a competitive advantage in its vibrant cities, coastal lifestyle, native wildlife, and vast outback. For the year ended July 2013, there was 21 per cent increase in convention and conference arrivals from India, compared to the same period last year.â&#x20AC;?

Nishant Kashikar, Country Manager India, Tourism Australia

why Australia? t 8FMDPNJOH DVMUVSF t 0VUTUBOEJOH CVTJOFTT GBDJMJUJFT BOE WFOVFT t *OTQJSJOH UFBN CVJMEJOH BDUJWJUJFT t &BTU "DDFTT GSPN BDSPTT UIF XPSME

Sydney Opera House at night

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Sydney Convention Centre , Darling Harbour

Cities with MICE facilities Australia has a host of cities, each oďŹ&#x20AC;ering their own unique experience for business events. Australiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s coastal centres are perfect for business events with excellent facilities right on the ocean front.

Sydney Sydney is one of Australiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most cosmopolitan cities with meeting facilities and venues complemented by sustainable urban practices. Known for its architecture, the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge make this city a very attractive MICE destination.

Sydney Convention & Exhibition Centre, Darling Harbour t " NJOVUF ESJWF GSPN UIF BJSQPSU XJUI MJHIUSBJM and monorail station access. Ferries and water taxis provide a unique alternative journey between the

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Centre and the cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s harbourside attractions. t .PSF UIBO nFYJCMF NFFUJOH SPPNT GPS VQ UP delegates, six exhibition halls and 30,000m2 of total exhibition space. t 1SPWJEFT TVQQPSU TFSWJDFT TVDI BT DBUFSJOH WJEFP productions and event management.

Signature Incentive Activities t ÍłF 4ZEOFZ )BSCPVS #SJEHF $MJNC ÍłJT IPVS journey will provide some breathtaking views. t "O FYDMVTJWF UPVS CFIJOE UIF TDFOFT BU UIF 4ZEOFZ Opera House. Popular as an events location, the Opera House also caters Indian food. t &NCBSL PO B DPSQPSBUF UFBN CVJMEJOH TBJMJOH SFHBUUB on Sydney Harbour. t 'FFM UIF UISJMM PO CPBSE B )BSMFZ %BWJETPO motorcycle en route to the famous Bondi Beach.

country talk

Gold Coast With 70 km of coastline, theme parks, private islands, 35,000 accommodation rooms and more than 600 restaurants and cafes, Australiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Gold Coast continues to enhance its business events reputation through the acquisition of major infrastructure, the growth of unique venues and diďŹ&#x20AC;erent incentive based activities.

The Gold Coast oďŹ&#x20AC;ers award-winning, purpose-built convention venues combined with unique meeting spaces. The city can cater up to 6,000 delegates.

Signature incentive activities t -FBSO IPX UP SJEF UIF (PME $PBTU T GBNPVT XBWFT with an Australian surf instructor. t 5SZ UIF TQFFE KFU CPBUJOH QBSBEJTF CPBUJOH XIJMF touring the houses of the rich and the famous. t "SSBOHF B EJOOFS EBUF XJUI B EJÄ&#x2030;FSFODF BOE JOEVMHF your delegates in a private evening at the picturesque .D-BSFO T -BOEJOH ÍłF 4PVUI 4USBECSPLF *TMBOE location can be set up for intimate dinners, complemented by the luxurious cruise home. t &OKPZ BO FOUFSUBJOJOH QSFTFOUBUJPO XIJMF EJOJOH just metres from rare Bengal and Sumatran tigers.

Delegates can even pat the tigers. t " NJOVUF IFMJDPQUFS SJEF GSPN UIF (PME $PBTU to the island of Tangalooma, famous for feeding dolphins, is an unparalleled experience.

Gold Coast oďŹ&#x20AC;ers award-winning, purpose-built convention venues combined with unique meeting spaces.

The Palazzo Versace the Gold Coast Queensland, Australia

Skyline of Sydney

Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre

country talk

Melbourne A city of style and substance, Melbourne has more than 25,500 rooms located in the Melbourne Tourist Region with approximately 16,100 rooms in the City of Melbourne and 9,400 in the central business district.

Incentive Options t 4BJM JOUP UIF TUVOOJOH :BSSB 7BMMFZ JO BO IPU BJS CBMMPPO at sunrise then sharpen your wine appreciation skills at acclaimed vineyards. t A(P HSFFO GPS B HPPE DBVTF KPJO B DPBTUBM SF vegetation program.

venue capacity .FMCPVSOF IBT B XJEF WBSJFUZ PG nFYJCMF NFFUJOH BOE TQFDJBM FWFOU WFOVFT GSPN GVOLZ XBSFIPVTF conversions to historic homes. The â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Six Star Green Starâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; rated Melbourne Convention Centre boasts a 5,500 seat plenary, 52 meeting rooms, grand banquet room and foyer for 8,400 guests. The integrated Melbourne Exhibition Centre is 30,000 sqm.

Above: South Wharf & Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre Below: The bright green blob-like sculpture by Perth-born artist James Angus, at Forrest Place

Above: Formula One Grand Prix

Perth The sunniest city in the world, Perth boasts coastal charm, colonial history, fantastic seafood and fabulous wine. Perth has over 8,000 rooms to suit a variety of budgets.

Incentive options t %JWF XJUI XIBMF TIBSLT TJUVBUFE PO "VTUSBMJB T Coral Coast. t $PNF GBDF UP GBDF XJUI "VTUSBMJB T GBNPVT BOJNBMT - pet koalas, wombats and other native wildlife at Caversham Wildlife Park t $PORVFS ZPVS GFBST BOE BCTFJM EPXO UIF TJEF PG POF of Perthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s iconic structures, the Bell Tower.

venue capacity Perth Convention Exhibition Centre has 15,000sqm of exhibition ďŹ&#x201A;oor space and a plenary facility for 2,500 delegates, supported by 18 additional meeting rooms.

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MICE Initiative

Melbourne lures MICE travellers

Below: The Arts Centre, Melbourne

Melbourne moves strategically further in inviting incentive movement to Australia.

MICEtalk puts forth their new incentive scheme to enhance group movement.

‘Melbourne Values You’ offers (Support from Melbourne Convention Bureau (MCB))

T

he Melbourne Convention Bureau (MCB) has teamed up with 30 of its members in the categories of hotels, venues, attractions and team-building companies to bring a series of special offers designed to make booking and planning an event in Melbourne not only seamless but cost effective.

The following table outlines the list of discounts or complimentary services available through Melbourne’s premier business events suppliers, which includes everything from free Wi-Fi and hotel room upgrades to reduced entry into attractions and on food and beverage packages.

GROUP SIZE

100 – 299

300-499

500 and above

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MCB SUPPORT Welcome Pack A Welcome bags, Official Visitors Guide, Melbourne map Souvenir for every delegate Welcome banner at Melbourne Airport VIP gifts (numbers to be pre-determined) Welcome letter from MCB’s CEO Welcome Pack A Hosted pre-event site inspection including ground transfers, official meals and accommodation for one delegate (3 days, 2 nights)

Welcome Pack B Welcome speech by MCB’s CEO Hosted pre-event site inspection including one economy flight, ground transfers, official meals and accommodation for up to two delegates (3 days, 2 nights) Financial support towards use of the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, if applicable (subject to government approval)

MICEtalk November 2013

To take advantage of these offers, organisations must adhere to the following criteria: t "QQMJDBCMF UP DPSQPSBUF NFFUJOHT BOE JODFOUJWF QSPHSBNT t .JOJNVN PG EFMFHBUFT USBWFMMJOH BU UIF TBNF UJNF t .JOJNVN UXP OJHIUT TUBZ JO .FMCPVSOF t (SPVQT UP CF DPOmSNFE GPS .FMCPVSOF CZ %FDFNCFS t (SPVQT UP USBWFM UP .FMCPVSOF CZ %FDFNCFS t /PU BQQMJDBCMF UP HSPVQT BMSFBEZ DPOmSNFE GPS .FMCPVSOF QSJPS UP UIF launch of this program in February 2013 Please note: Additional terms and conditions may apply.

All costs quoted are in Australian dollars.

let’s talk

makes India more attractive for MICE

Dollar fluctuation

The depreciating of the Indian rupee is ringing alarm bells across sectors in the country. The fluctuating dollar is on everyone’s mind. MICEtalk talks to some hotel stalwarts to know how the hotel industry is going to be affected and what is the next step forward? Read more...

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letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s talk

Hoping for Positive Signs JAGAN LASCHER General Manager, Pullman Gurgaon Central Park â&#x20AC;&#x153;MICE Industry dynamics are relatively sensitive to currency nVDUVBUJPOT *OEJB IBT CFFO XJUOFTTJOH B HSPXUI JO .*$& EPNFTUJD BOE JOUFSOBUJPOBM DPOGFSFODJOH UJMM TMPXEPXO JO FDPOPNZ TUBSUFE UBLJOH JUT UPMM PO JU *G XF MPPL DMPTFMZ POF DBO PCTFSWF UIBU XF IBWF CFDPNF more lucrative and competitive for large International Conferences visa-vis regional destinations like Singapore, Bangkok, Hong Kong, etc.

In recent times, Indian hotels have seen increased dependency on domestic conferencing. Since a strong dollar has hit aviation fuel prices, resulting in hike in airfares, overall budgets for domestic conferences IBT JODSFBTFE XIJDI IBT GVSUIFS JNQBDUFE USBWFM PVU PG NFUSP DJUJFT 8JUI JODSFBTFE JOWFOUPSZ BOE B TISJOLJOH NBSLFU "33T IBWF DPNF VOEFS NPSF QSFTTVSF BT XFMM 0ODF UIF FDPOPNZ TUBCJMJTFT XF BSF IPQFGVM UIBU UIF .*$& JOEVTUSZ XJMM TIPX TJHOT PG QPTJUJWF HSPXUI w

India has become more lucrative and competitive for large International Conferences vis-a-vis regional destinations like Singapore, Bangkok, Hong Kong, etc.

Witnessing Marginal Growth VELLA RAMASAWMY General Manager, Kempinski Ambience Hotel, Delhi i*U IBT OPX CFDPNF CFOFmDJBM GPS UIF JOUFSOBUJPOBM .*$& UP DPOEVDU NFFUJOHT BOE DPOGFSFODFT JO *OEJB PXJOH UP UIF XFBLFOJOH SVQFF 8F IBWF TFFO B NBSHJOBM JODSFBTF JO MFBET CVU OPU B TJHOJmDBOU JODSFBTF 8F BMTP QMBO UP NPWF UP %PMMBS QSJDJOH XIJMF RVPUJOH GPS .*$& CVTJOFTT 8F BSF SFBEZ UP DBUFS UP MBSHF GPSNBU DPOGFSFODFT BMPOH XJUI 8PSME DPOHSFTTFT JOUP *OEJB 4JODF XF OPX IBWF UIF QSPEVDUT UP TVQQPSU MBSHF GPSNBUUFE FWFOUT * UIJOL JG XF NBSLFU BOE FYFDVU XFMM *OEJB DPVME CF B XPOEFSGVM FYPUJD EFTUJOBUJPO GPS MBSHF GPSNBU DPOWFOUJPOT w

We are ready to cater to large format conferences along with World congresses into India.

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letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s talk

Expecting customers from new markets SAURABH KHURANA Director of Business Development & MICE, Shangri-Laâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s - Eros Hotel, New Delhi i*OEJB IBT CFDPNF NPSF BUUSBDUJWF EVF UP UIF XFBLFS *OEJBO SVQFF *U JT important to note that the rupee had depreciated by about 15-16 per cent against the greenback over the last six months and hence, the consumers have shifted their focus to non-dollar destinations.

8JUI HSFBUFS CVZJOH QPXFS JO *OEJB XF IBWF XJUOFTTFE BO JODSFBTF JO OVNCFST GSPN LFZ NBSLFUT MJLF 6, BOE TPNF VODPOWFOUJPOBM NBSLFUT MJLF "GSJDB 8F IBWF OPUFE USBDUJPO PO QSF BOE QPTU TIPX UPVS BUUFOEBODF BT XFMM *OEJB JT QPJTFE UP ESJWF B MPU PG .*$& 5PVSJTN JO *OEJB 5IF OFYU TUFQ GPSXBSE GPS the MICE Industry is building up of quality convention centres in the country in NFUSP DJUJFT XIJDI XJMM FOBCMF UIF DPVOUSZ UP CJE GPS B WFSZ MBSHF TDBMF .*$& FWFOUT w

With greater buying power in India, we have witnessed an increase in numbers from key markets like UK and some unconventional markets like Africa.

Below: Lobby of Shangri-La, New Delhi

incentive talk

Incentives Galore in New Zealand New N ew Zealandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Zealandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s u unforgettable nforgettable m mix ix o off b breath-taking reath-taking n natural atural llandscapes andscapes aand nd vibrant ccosmopolitan vibrant osmopolitan ccentres entres m makes akes iitt a p perfect erfect llocation ocation ffor or cconferences, onferences, business events events aand nd iincentive ncentive vvisitors. isitors. W ith ccompanies ompanies iincreasingly ncreasingly llooking ooking aatt business With overseas incentive overseas incentive aand nd tteam-building eam-building d destinations, estinations, tthe he ccountry ountry b boasts oasts o off aan n array o ctivities aand nd eexperiences. xperiences. array off aactivities

Roaring Meg on the Kawarau River

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incentive talk

connectivity

8FMM DPOOFDUFE XJUI NBKPS BJSQPSUT BSPVOE UIF XPSME JODMVEJOH *OEJB /FX ;FBMBOE IPTU QFPQMF GSPN BSPVOE UIF HMPCF $POOFDUJOH nJHIUT GSPN *OEJB UP /FX ;FBMBOE BSF BWBJMBCMF PO $BUIBZ 1BDJmD .BMBZTJB "JSMJOFT 4JOHBQPSF "JSMJOFT BOE 5IBJ "JSXBZT

USP of New Zealand )PUFMT BOE DPOGFSFODF DFOUSFT IFSF BSF XFMM equipped to cater to different requirements and offer a range of Indian-style vegetarian options BT XFMM NBLJOH JU UIF mSTU DIPJDF GPS NBOZ *OEJBO travellers. Language is not a barrier as English is POF PG JUT UISFF PGmDJBM MBOHVBHFT CFTJEFT .BPSJ BOE /FX ;FBMBOE 4JHO -BOHVBHF

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incentive talk

Popular activities for incentive trips Companies can reward their best employees with all manner of experiences, from exhilarating jet boat safaris and heli-skiing to award winning food and wine, luxurious spas and fascinating Māori cultural experiences. There’s also a wide range of luxury accommodation available, from lakeside villas with awe-inspiring views to cliff-top lodges with world class golf courses on site.

t$IBMMFOHF ZPVSTFMG XJUI TFB LBZBLJOH rafting, abseiling and other outdoor activities near Dunedin. t%FTDFOE VOEFSHSPVOE GPS BO FYDJUJOH DBWJOH experience with Adventure Waikato.

Don’t miss The Tomo Escape – abseil into an underground world with your team and work together to find your way out. t"U Agroventures, near Rotorua, race against each other in teams of two on the Schweeb – a unique pedal-powered monorail circuit. tScale New Zealand’s tallest building, the Sky Tower, for a SkyWalk around the tower’s spectacular outdoor walkway. A full body harness and overhead safety lines keep you safe as you gaze over Auckland from 192m up.

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t)FBE UP 8BJIFLF *TMBOE GPS UIF Wild on Waiheke experience. Try archery, laser clay bird shooting and brilliant team-building challenges such as the Great Escape – an experience that is part ‘Amazing Race’, part ‘Survivor Waiheke Island’. t&OKPZ 3600 view of Auckland: The Only way to experience the Auckland Harbour Bridge by foot!

Climb under, around, up and over one of Auckland’s

Above: Sky Diving over Lake Taupo Below: Race down a mountainside on a three-wheel luge kart at Skyline Rotorua

most iconic landmarks on this 1.5 hour personally guided tour with extensive commentary. t5SBWFM UP Terrace Downs Resort for team-building experiences in the foothills of the Southern Alps.

Options include clay target shooting and archery, and there’s also a world-class golf course on site. t'MZ UISPVHI UIF forest canopy in Queenstown. This unique experience involves zipping through the trees while harnessed to a zipwire or flying fox. t&YQMPSF UIF CBDLDPVOUSZ BSPVOE 2VFFOTUPXO PO B Nomad off-road adventure. tMoonlight Country OFBS 2VFFOTUPXO PĉFST tailor-made team-building experiences including orienteering, sheepdog trials, clay target shooting and quad bike riding. tMountain Biking: Rotorua has over 90 km of worldclass mountain biking trails – all located in lush native forests - that are popular with both amateurs and experts alike. tMilford Sound: Milford Sound is breathtaking in any weather. The fiord’s cliffs rise vertically from the dark waters, mountain peaks scrape the sky and waterfalls cascade downwards.

Boat cruises are an excellent way to experience the Sound. t%JTDPWFS UIF MVYVSJPVT Boomrock Lodge near Wellington and experience rally car racing, all terrain 4WD, archery, knife throwing, extreme golf, clay target shooting and a chance to fly a helicopter.

Above: Challenge yourself with some adventurous outdoor activities in Queenstown Below: Boasting steaming mineral pools and luxurious mud treatments, Rotorua is a haven for relaxation.

domestic MICE

MICE and Leisure Drive New Inventory in Kochi Megha Paul

Owing to the boom in tourism, IT and the shipping sector, Keralaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s commercial capital is developing as the focal point for hospitality in the state. Used as a transit point, enough demand from MICE and leisure segments has helped in the evolution of the destination.

Above: Lobby of Crowne Plaza, Kochi

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domestic MICE

T

his September, Kochi witnessed two important events in the travel and hospitality sectors. The Indian Association of Tour Operators (IATO) organised its 29th BOOVBM $POWFOUJPO BU -F .FSJEJFO Kochi and the Federation of Hotel and Restaurant Associations of India (FHRAI) concluded its 48th annual convention at the same venue. The region that was earlier used more as a transit point was undersold in Kerala. With a slew of events in the past and enough demand from the MICE and leisure segments has helped in the evolution of the destination.

According to Saji Joseph, General Manager, Le Meridien Hotel, Kochi, MICE is not just about a meeting but also about value proposition that offers more to clients. Kerala has a lot to offer in terms of cultural learning, culinary journeys, Ayurveda and wellness that clients can take back. This makes it easier for the hotels to market the destination. In South India, Kerala has been considered a hub for medical events. This has been a flourishing segment for long. With new inventory coming in the city, the hotels need to market and showcase the destination globally for other industrial and service segments.

Feels Shilendran M, Vice President-Sales, CGH Earth, hotels in Kochi are based in two geographical locations. One is the hotels in the region of Kakkanad, which is the fastest developing commercial and IT destination. Hotels in this area are mainly focusing on corporate segment, which has seen a relative growth in the last two years. “Thus, prices are extremely competitive. In the other side of Fort Kochi, the hotels cater to strictly leisure clientele. This side of Kochi needs to garner more investments and gear up to emerge as a MICE destination,” he informs.

Hotels in this area are mainly focusing on corporate segment, which has seen a relative growth in the last two years.

Talking about the Kochi hospitality, Sanjay Kaushik, General Manager, Crowne Plaza Kochi, points out, “Kochi has emerged as a gateway to Kerala in the last five years. The hospitality industry has seen a major transformation from the city being dominated by local and regional players to the launch of almost all major global hospitality players.

Kochi was treated as a typical transit destination but now it has evolved as an emerging destination for MICE. The growth in corporate and IT segment has increased tremendously since most of the corporate giants have anchored in the city with their corporate offices.

This has boosted the hotel industry by reducing dependence on seasonal international leisure travellers.

Consequently, it has helped the industry to have an equal mix of domestic and international or business and leisure travellers.” The region is witnessing occupancy of about 50 per cent in the luxury five-star category, he adds.

Below: Holiday Inn, Kochi

yours officially

England Offering exclusive MICE opportunities

“

England is not an unfamiliar destination to Indians and London has always been a favourite place for MICE and leisure travellers. Reem Khokhar, Regional Manager – Asia Pacific, VisitEngland, in conversation with MICEtalk clarifies some misconceptions related to visa clearance, shopping in London, etc., and provides vital information related to MICE opportunities in the country.

What kind of growth do you see from India in the MICE segment?

Business visitor numbers from India to England was approximately 90,000 in 2012. We’re hoping to see an increase of at least an additional GBP 2 million worth of business.

How do you intend to position England in India?

England is synonymous of world-class facilities, variety, accessibility and a truly memorable experience. You can explore the excellent range of world class conferencing facilities across the country – from Brighton to NewcastleGateshead; unique venues for meetings or gala dinners like Spitbank Fort where you could have a lovely private island reserved for the group or a stunning gala dinner in Bath at the Roman Baths and Pump House with an atmospheric backdrop of the steam rising over the hot water springs, the torches alight with the magnificent Bath Abbey rising up in the background.

accessibility England is a compact country. If in a city, you’re never very far from the countryside. Thus you can easily integrate a varied landscape into your itinerary – planning a fun treasure hunt in the countryside for a day or adventure sports like coasteering around the coastal parts of the country.

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There are other Asian destinations which get a major chunk of the Indian MICE traffic. What are you doing to increase your market share?

As groups look for new experiences and destinations, we feel that England has a very strong offering. There is a familiarity, yet a novelty attached to the image of the country, because there are so many great destinations and experiences that MICE groups may not know of and are intrigued when they learn about how much more is on offer.

We reach out to various stakeholders in building awareness and promoting the destination. Attending events like IBTM India and other MICE B2B events to network with MICE operators, associations and corporates. We also do one-on-one meetings in a few key cities and have participated in corporate networking events. Destination training in the metros along with the other British tourism partners for the travel trade; as well as in-office trainings on request for sales teams; and MICE brochures with a few key operators, are ways in which we are working to increase awareness and reach out to the relevant audience.

Media FAM trips and some online promotional activity for MICE organisers across the Asia-Pacific region are also in the pipeline.

What kind of challenges do you face dealing with the Indian market specially with big MICE groups?

Our biggest challenge is changing perceptions – expense being something that comes up sometimes.

yours ofďŹ cially

Above: Newcastle Gateshead Below: Royal Pavilion2, Brighton

England has so much to oďŹ&#x20AC;er to MICE groups. Many organisers may not be aware that on certain components of MICE trips, one can claim the value added tax and may save up to 20 percent of the total costs. $PTUT WBSZ JO &OHMBOE BOE XIFUIFS JO -POEPO XIFSF one can get some really cost-eďŹ&#x20AC;ective options as well DPOUSBSZ UP QPQVMBS CFMJFG PS PVUTJEF PG -POEPO DPTUT do come down as well as prices for accommodation; BUUSBDUJPOT FUD -BDL PG BXBSFOFTT SFHBSEJOH EJTUBODFT PS WBSJFUZ JO FYQFSJFODF PS GPPE CFZPOE -POEPO JT BMTP something we are working on.

The perception that visas are hard to get is misleading â&#x20AC;&#x201C; as most Indians who apply for a business or visitor visa get one. Yes, it does involve some QMBOOJOH CVU 6, 7JTBT SFDFJWFE BMNPTU WJTJUPS visa applications in 2012 and issued almost 102,000.

They received 56,000 business visa applications in 2012 and issued almost 54,000. The advantage for MICE groups are that their timing of their travels are pre-decided, which gives one enough time to plan for a group.

MICEtalk November 2013

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event talk

Explore Russia’s tourism market at MITT Date: March 19–22, 2014 Venue: Expocentre, Krasnaya Presnya, Moscow Russia’s largest and most established travel and tourism exhibition, MITT’s 21st edition brings together the industry’s most influential professionals to explore Russia’s fast-growing outbound tourism market.

With over 3,000 participating companies and 198 destinations, MITT is an excellent strategic meeting place for the international travel industry and an opportunity to catch up with current and potential clients. It enables participants to increase awareness of their destination, gain a real feel for the Russian travel market and gauge the demand for their services. MITT welcomes both trade and consumer visitors, with specific ‘trade only’ days.

-PDBUFE BU UIF &YQPDFOUSF JO DFOUSBM .PTDPX OFYU UP 7ZTUBWPDIOBZB NFUSP TUBUJPO .*55 JT DPOWFOJFOUMZ accessible by a network of public transport links.

Over the four days during MITT, an intensive business programme will be held in 15 conference halls. It will include press conferences, presentations of new destinations and services, seminars, master-classes and other events. For more details visit www.mitt.ru.

expert talk

Life Management

Shabnam Mehra

How often have you strategised on the correct time to reach the airport to catch a flight and how often have you gotten the timing perfect? You could keep a big margin and factor all obstacles and yet at times you rival an Olympic champ making the final 100m dash all the way to the aircraft.

While some other occasions leave you with time enough to twiddle your thumbs and regret your own punctuality.

Well! Which situation do you prefer?

F

rankly, your preference has no impact on the schedule departure time. So you can sweat it, stress it or shun it, that flight will take off just when it is supposed to. Even though there may be technical delays, the only thing that is relevant is that you know you will make it to your next destination.

Now reflect at life from the same angle. We are all ambitious and we have goals and we keep waiting for the right opportunities that will take us to our next level, the next destination. Again what is relevant is that we know what the next destination is. We continue to direct our efforts in the right direction and have faith that we will reach where we want. But also remember things will happen when they are supposed to – The flight will take off when it is supposed to.

A lot of stress happens in life when we don’t get what we desire immediately. So if you feel you are ready for a raise or a promotion and it doesn’t happen one loses faith and is frustrated but if you knew in advance that the promotion was a year away and there was a logical reason why it didn’t come through right away – I guess you could crib but would you still get stressed about it. ?

Everybody recommends that we live in the ‘present’, but sometimes the ‘present’ becomes a little

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too overwhelming. Overawed, we start defining our entire life with that one lens and the big picture gets hazy. To make the big picture a lot clearer, we need to remember that the future is only a moment away and will bring with it, a lot of new perspectives, new insights, deeper understanding and a whole lot of fresh opportunities.

So sit back and relax, and ponder on the proverb ‘This too shall pass’. And after you have absorbed the essence, analyse your options (and if you are truly positive in your approach, then analyse your opportunities), and consider what actions can you take? And like the fly by wire technologies that planes use to overcome turbulence, glide back to your chosen route.

There will be some around you who will cry in alarm, but they are only voicing their fears. You are responsible for the way your life shapes up so take charge. Taking charge does not stop you from seeking support but just reinforces your desire to move ahead.

So you can still debate the time you want to reach the airport but choose to accept the outcome as only a step in the long journey ahead.

For further details contact shabnamsmehra@yahoo.com

hotel talk

Exhibiting Offering International MICE Potential ITC Grand Chola Neha Oberoi

A tribute to Southern India’s greatest empires – the Imperial Cholas, The ITC Grand Chola is located in Guindy in close proximity to Chennai’s business district. It is also the closest luxury hotel to the IT hub on the Old Mahabalipuram Road. The hotel boasts 522 rooms and 78 serviced apartments.

past events Apart from high-profile destination weddings, luxury car launches, it has hosted prestigious exhibitions like World Crafts Council BU UIF 3BKFOESB CBORVFU IBMM 0NLBSB "SU &YIJCJUJPO *OEJB -JWF *OUFSOBUJPOBM $POWFOUJPO UIF *OEJBO "TTPDJBUJPO $POHSFTT Madras Week celebrations and art exhibitions in support of noble causes, to name just a few.

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hotel talk

location The ITC Grand Chola is 7 kms from the domestic and international airport and the proposed metro line is just a stoneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s throw away.

Convention space Rajendra is one of the countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest pillar-less banquet halls and can accommodate a ďŹ&#x201A;oating crowd of 3000. It has its own pre-function area of 1584 m2 and can be divided into eight separate halls, each with sound prooďŹ ng possibility. Hence, it facilitates hosting multiple functions simultaneously. *U BMTP GFBUVSFT B QSJWBUF 7*1 FOUSBODF B GSFJHIU elevator capable of accommodating luxury cars, drop EPXO TDSFFOT BOE -$% QSPKFDUPST Kaveri meeting rooms are four spaces, of a total area of 240 m2. Keeping in sync with individual requirements, these 4 boardrooms can seat 12 guests each and are versatile enough to be merged into one distinct meeting space.

Tanjore is equipped with futuristic boardroom UFDIOPMPHZ MJLF QPQ VQ -$% EJTQMBZT IJHI EFmOJUJPO cameras which can be controlled directly from the table and drop-down screens. Spread across 980 sq ft, it can seat 24 persons.

Cuisine & Relaxation ITCâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s tradition of culinary excellence is reďŹ&#x201A;ected in: the Royal Vega - luxury vegetarian cuisine of India, Ottimo â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the Italian kitchen, Pan Asian, the Indian North West Frontier Cuisine at Peshawri, the all-day dining at CafĂŠ Mercara Express, the ďŹ nest threemeal buďŹ&#x20AC;et experience at Madras Pavilion, sinful indulgences at Nutmeg â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the Gourmet Shop and The Cheroot â&#x20AC;&#x201C; .BMU $JHBS -PVOHF This is further complemented by ITCâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s internationally acknowledged indigenous spa brand, Kaya Kalp â&#x20AC;&#x201C; The Royal Spa and The Marina pool complex.

Imperial Exhibitions ITC Grand Chola presents dynamic spaces, enhanced by futuristic technology and state-of-the-art features, making it the preferred choice for exhibitions and expos. Their dedicated team of professionals provide seamless support in designing, planning and executing your event. Imperial Exhibitions can be tailor-made to your needs.

Customised MICE ITC Grand Chola oďŹ&#x20AC;ers several options for MICE which can be customised in accordance with the preferences of its guests. t Premium Meetings allows you to arrange meetings amidst luxurious environs as you choose from an array of gastronomic delights specially crafted and customised for your requirements. t Dynamic Meetings provide the perfect blend of business and pleasure. Enjoy your meetings with a delightful culinary mix in its grandest setting. t .FFU %JOF -PPL GPSXBSE UP DSJTQ BOE FÄ&#x160;DJFOU business meetings with our Meet & Dine option.

Green Meetings #FMJFWJOH JO 3FTQPOTJCMF -VYVSZ UIFJS NFFUJOHT BSF conducted with eďŹ&#x20AC;orts to reduce carbon footprint. The deliverables, right from the emissions of the lighting they use to the size of the dinner plates, add towards a greener tomorrow.

MICEtalk November 2013

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event talk

Zambhala

A Unique Yoga Festival

December 21-22, 2013 Goa

Martin da Costa, CEP, 70 EMG

Elaborate on Zambhala, its significance and how did you feel the need to organise a yoga festival?

India’s domestic wellness and spiritual tourism market is growing at a healthy rate, and of course, Zambhala will act as a focus for it. Zambhala is the largest festival of Yoga, Spirituality, Music and Dance ever organised in India. It features many from India and the world’s greatest experts in the five classical forms of Indian Yoga, together with masters from the US, France, Canada and South East Asia.

How have Corporates accepted Yoga within their business events?

Certainly in the USA, where over 20.4 million adults (8.7 per cent of the adult population) practice Yoga, corporate Yoga has become a mainstay of many internal HR and fitness programmes. In India, where, in a sense, Yoga is ‘in us’, the organised corporate sector has been slow to take it up - but we have no doubt that we are at the rising edge of a very large wave.

What does India offer in terms of spiritual tourism?

Spiritual Inbound Tourism into India is dominated

by Yoga and the culture and practice of staying in an Ashram. The different spiritual practices that attract tourists are myriad: At Zambhala, in addition to covering the most important 5 schools of Indian Yoga, along with many other forms of Yoga, we are featuring speakers and experts of different spiritual and health related disciplines: for example, past life regression, pranic healing, meditation, dream interpretation, fitness, dance therapy, together with the world’s leading Nutritionists and naturotherapists.

Why have you chosen Goa as a venue for this festival?

Goa still retains the purity of the 1960’s experience: a clean beach, waving palms, a laid back and welcoming

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energy. And also, we have on the 21st and 22nd December a huge captive audience in Goa to enjoy themselves, and, we hope, they will experience a world that is entirely different from their normal urban existence.

Differentiate Zambhala from other yoga festivals and mention its USP. Zambhala is different, it is unique for India in that it brings together many worlds - Yoga, Spirituality, Fitness, Diet, Health, Mental and Physical balance and places them gently within a luxurious, modern and comfortable festival environment. We will have music and dance.

Do you practice yoga and how does it benefit you?

I do, and it helps me strengthen - physically and mentally - my ability to deal with a busy work and home life.

etiquette talk

Tips for

the Right Handshake

The recent furor over the ‘casual’ handshake extended by Microsoft founder Bill Gates to South Korea President Park Geun-hye raised several questions – Was it a case of cultural differences or plain bad manners? Also, was Bill Gates trying to show superiority by tucking one hand in his trouser pocket while extending the other to the Korean President?

Shital Kakkar Mehra Practitioner of Corporate Etiquette and International Protocol in India

American President Obama’s greeting style came under fire when he extended a combination of a handshake and an awkward 90 degrees bow to the Japanese Emperor.

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H

andshakes in politics grab attention. American President Obamaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s greeting style came under ďŹ re when he extended a combination of a handshake and an awkward 90 degrees bow to the Japanese Emperor. Bill Clintonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s smiling face as Israeli Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin and Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat shake hands was a high point of his presidency. Closer home, Rahul Gandhiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s unique demonstration of Chinaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s strong â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;push-you-downâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; tactics by extending a bone-crusher to the host at a high-powered industry meet was much talked about.

Tips for a good handshake Right hand: At meetings and networking events, keep your right hand ready for a handshake. Hold your folder or drink in the left hand (the condensation from a chilled drink can make your hands clammy).

Body language: Handshakes create the best impact when accompanied with direct eye contact and a smile. While shaking hands, never look over the personâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s shoulder in a bid to spot a more important person.

Present correctly: Keep your hand perpendicular when extending for a handshake; palm down can be viewed intimidating or aggressive while palm up is translated as subservient in body language.

Convey warmth: Extend a ďŹ&#x201A;at palm and connect with the other personâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s web (skin between thumb and index ďŹ nger).

Keep your hand perpendicular when extending for a handshake

Handshakes to avoid Bone-crusher: This macho handshake is extra ďŹ rm and displays physical power. It intimidates the other person and non-verbally conveys that you like to maintain a dominant position.

Limp handshake: This kind of handshake conveys lack of self-esteem and conďŹ dence.

Glove handshake: Common amongst political leaders, it involves covering the personâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hand with both your hands to subtly signal â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;I am there for youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;. This handshake is ideal for funerals and condolence meetings.

Extended handshakes: Pumping the hand several times and refusing to let go is embarrassing and creates awkwardness.

LORDS

Expanding Horizons Before getting any property on board, -PSET IBT BMXBZT DPOTJEFSFE UIF importance and value of MICE travellers.

Abiding by the rule with 19 operational QSPQFSUJFT -PSET IBT IVHF DPOGFSFODF and board rooms at 13 of its properties.

Namely: Ankleshwar, Surat, Silvassa, Bhavnagar, Kandla, Jaipur, Kathgodam, Porbandar, Rajula, Saputara and 7BEPEBSB 0VU PG UIF MJTUFE QSPQFSUJFT our Kathgodam Hotel has the largest banquet in town and Silvassa Hotel has 5400 sq ft of pillar-less banquet.

Addressing to the need of corporates, -PSET PÄ&#x2030;FST TNBMM CPBSE SPPNT BT XFMM -PSET VOEFSTUBOET UIF OFFE PG JUT DMJFOUT and do arrangements accordingly.

Recently, Lords was awarded as â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;The New Fastest Growing Hotel Chainâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; for the second time in a row.

technology

Providing exhibitors with revenue generating leads It is no secret that exhibitors attend events in order to find new business, re-establish existing relationships and demonstrate products and services. New tools, marketing methods and communication systems add greater value to an exhibitor’s participation; before, during and after the event.

The fully-customisable software integrates with the event’s existing website and also offers new and exciting revenue generating products.

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technology

T

h In recent years, Event Apps have become a dynamic promotional and resource sharing tool that exhibitors have been able to harness and exploit. Recent enhancements to these apps, such as true leads modules (not basic business card capture scanners) which allow real-time lead capture and analysis, have added additional real return on investment for exhibitors.

New Software Platform GoExpo, founded in 2008, is the tradeshow software designed to bring more qualified buyers to exhibitor booths by matching attendees to their product interests.

It provides a private social networking platform, an online exhibitor directory, interactive floor plan, dashboard emails, newsletters, an online conference/ speaker system, show planners, booth contracts, B TZTUFN GPS NBOBHJOH 7*1 IPTUFE CVZFS FWFOUT segment marketing, social networking, messaging, appointment scheduling, a self-service portal, exhibitor email invitations, 3rd party support, mobile apps, and many other easy-to-use features that enhance the show experience for the attendees, exhibitors and show management.

GoExpo integrates seamlessly with leading event apps, allowing registrants to immediately access the system upon the completion of their registration

and exhibitors to immediately access the system upon completion of their booth contract. Using the attendees’ demographic profiles, GoExpo’s search engine returns recommended exhibitors, products and seminar matches in real-time. Attendees can easily add these recommendations to their planner, or contact exhibitors for more information via the internal GoExpo messaging system.

In addition to traditional sponsorship opportunities, exhibitors can purchase enhanced product listings and entries in an online (or onsite) product showcase. All purchases are handled online through the secure e-commerce interface in GoExpo or can be entered manually when the event wishes to collect payments directly.

For more info visit www.goexposoftware.com

about the author Darren Edwards is the founder of Invisage Creative Services in Australia. With more than 20 years’ experience and knowledge in the meetings and events industry, Darren continues to drive creativity in events and the way they are run.

Contact: info@invisage.net

Movements The Lalit Chandigarh welcomes new GM Ashish Gawari is the new General Manager of the The Lalit Chandigarh, moving from his previous role as General Manager of the The Lalit Srinagar. In his new role, he will be responsible for the management of this business property which is also a recent venture of The Lalit Suri Hospitality Group.

Park Inn by Radisson Gurgaon Bilaspur appoints new GM Akash Roy Saigal is the new GM for Park Inn by Radisson Gurgaon Bilaspur. He has 13 years of hospitality experience, out of which he worked as General Manager at The Palms Town and Country Club, Gurgaon for three years.

A great team player, he is well-versed in maintaining the positioning of the brand in a competitive market.

Tourism New Zealand The Suryaa, New Delhi appoints new GM The Surya announces the appointment of Pankaj Mathur as its new GM. Pankaj comes with a rich experience of over two decades and has worked significantly with International Hotel Chains like Starwood, Hyatt, Marriott, Oberois, Taj and ITC Welcomgroup. In his new role, he will help enhance the image of the organisation through directing the operations of the business with focus on identifying and managing growth opportunities; to rebrand and reposition The Suryaa as singularly the main choice among the leading hotels of New Delhi.

Sheraton Bangalore Hotel at Brigade Gateway appoints Director Sales & Marketing

Debanjan Kundu is the new Director D Sales & Marketing of Sheraton Bangalore Hotel at Brigade Gateway. With over 10 years’ experience in the hospitality industry, Debanjan has demonstrated capabilities in evolving innovative sales and promotional strategies. Prior to joining Sheraton Bangalore, he was the Director of Sales at Westin Hyderabad Mindspace and was associated with Starwood since March 2011.

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appoints Country Manager, Marketing Communications Manager and PR Manager Neha Bola joins Tourism New Zealand as Country Manager. Neha has over 12 years of experience in the travel and tourism space with experience in Business Development, Product Development, Contracting, Sales, Operations, and CRM.

Nisha D’souza has been appointed to the role of Marketing Communications Manager.

She has rich experience of working with Blue Square Consultants, Cox & Kings, and Ogilvy One.

Naomi Lobo is the new PR Manager. She has previously handled media relations for Korea Tourism Organisation, Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau, Star Cruises and Resorts World Sentosa.

Shangri-La’s - Eros Hotel, New Delhi, appoints Director of Communications Anjori Kumar is the new Director of Communications of Shangri-La’s - Eros Hotel.

With a Masters in Public Relations and Communication, Anjori comes with over 6 years of resonance in strategic Public Relations, Brand Building, Integrated Marketing Communications and Press Relations.

events

EVENT Rann Uts tsav sav a

events calendar

VENUE/PLACE Litt Li ttle tt le Rann of Kutch

CITY/COU OUNTRY OU

DATE

Kutc Ku tch, Guj ujra rat

Dec 14, 2013 - Mar 18, 20 014

North Nort h Am Amer e ic er i an Int nter terrna nati tion onal al Th The e To T ronto In ntte ern ern r ational M to Mo torc rcyc yclle yc le S Sup up per e sh show ow Cent Ce ntre re

Torontto, o,Ca Cana n da

Ja anu uar aryy 03 - 0 05, 5 20 5, 01 14

Trav Tr avel Expo o

Mess Me s e Luze ss zern ze n

Lu uce c rne, S Switze erland erla nd

Jan anua uary ua ry 10 - 12 12, 20 2014 14

Resorts An nd To Tourrissm Ex Expo p

Zhem Zh mch c uzhina Hottel el

Soch hi, Rus Rus u si sa

Janu nuar aryy 10 10 -- 14 , 20 2014

Go-T Tra ave el Fa F iirr

Brno Exh hiib bition it n Ce it Centtre re

B no, Cz Br C ec ech h Re Republ publ bliic

Jan a uary ua aryy 1 16 6 - 19 19, 2 20 014 4

India a In nte ern nati attional Travel & Tourism m Ex Exhi hibi b tion

MM MRD RDA Exhibition Center te er

Mumb Mu mbaii, IIndi dia a

Janua uary 16 - 18, 18 8 20 2 14

Ad dventture urre Tr T avvell Exp poMe elbou ou urn ne

Ro oyall Ex Exhi h bi biti tion ti on B Bui u ld ui din ing g

Melb Me lb bourne, Austr tral alia ia a

Feb brru uary 01 - 02, 2 20 01 14

Hospita Ho aliitty E Ex xxpo po po

RDS RD S Siimm mmon onsc scou o rtt

Du ubl blin n, Ir Irel eland and an

Feb bru ruary 04 4 - 05 , 20 014 4

Bu usinesss Tra ave vel e & Meetings Sh how

Ea arl rlss Co Cour u t Exh hibitio on Cen on ntrre

London, U Unitted Kin ngdo om

Febru r aryy 04 4 - 05, 2014

Ou utbou und Tra avel MartMu umb mbai a

Bomb Bo om mb bay ay Con nve ent ntio on & Exhi Ex xh hiibi bittion n Cen entr tre tr e (B BCEC) CEC CE C))

Mumb Mu bai ai, In Indi Indi In dia dia

Fe eb bru ruar arry 07 0 - 09 , 2 20 014 4

Postal Registration No.:DL(ND)/6150/2011-12-13 WPP No.:U(C)-305/2011-13 for Posting on 29th-30th of Advance Month at New Delhi P.S.O. Date of Publication: 22/10/2013, RNI No.:DELENG/2010/34144