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Vol. XXIV No. 4; February 2 nd fortnight issue 2012

TRAVTALK

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FEBRUARY 2 ND FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2012

European crisis can dent India’s dream The 12th Five Year Plan of increasing India share of global tourism to 1% and achieve 12m arrivals will require around 15% Y-o-Y growth. Are we ready? The industry speaks on its 2012 outlook, giving a sneak peek of what lies ahead.

Industry Talks Declare tourism as Industry to it more investor-friendly Liberalise Government policy to boost investment in tourism infrastructure Revamp ‘!ncredible India’ marketing campaign Include more countries in Visa-onArrival scheme Introduce e-Visa Minimise the number of days to get visa from Indian Embassy/missions abroad Lower luxury tax on tourism products / eliminate multiple taxes to reduce the package tour cost for tourists in comparison to neighbouring countries Diversify India’s tourism source markets Diversify India’s tourism offering Engage marketing agency in different countries to market India extensively Organise Roadshows in potential source markets/ countries/ cities Organise India evening for international trade at the exhibitions where India participates Persuade Bollywood to shoot here in India by giving support and Incentive Use Technology / IT / Social media for promotion Host International Games and Concerts Inviting International media and travel writer for Fam trip

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t 8.9 per cent, growth in visitor arrivals slowed down in 2011 in comparison to 11.8 per cent growth that India recorded in foreign visitor arrivals in 2010. And with economic crisis in Europe looming large, the outlook for 2012 looks uncertain. If not robust, a healthy growth in 2012 will be a key factor in Government’s plan of increasing Indian share of global tourist traffic to 1 per cent (From the current 0.58 per cent) and taking the arrival figure to a coveted 12m by the end of 12th Five Year Plan (April 2012-March 2017).

Is there a need to engage in an urgent revision of the global economic climate? And, accordingly shape India’s destination marketing strategy in the overseas market? With about 35 per cent of visitors, Europe continues to be India’s single largest source market. And given the current share of tourist traffic from Europe to India (About 1.98m and 34.25 per cent of total 5.8m FTAs in 2010) and the looming economic crisis in Europe,

Dipak Deva

Gautam Kaul

CEO, Destination Management India & South Asia, Sita

COO Yatra Exotic Routes

trade pundits are speaking in the language of ‘cautious optimism’ for 2012.

in 2008, it climbed down to 35.17 per cent in 2009 and further down to 34.25 per cent in 2010. The UK, A worrisome trend is India’s second largest that the European share of tourism source market tourist arrivals to India is after the US, is also slowon a continuous decline. ing down. Between 2008 From a close 36 per cent and 2010, its share has come down Source Markets for India from 14.70 per cent to just over 1: Europe 13 per cent Year Arrivals % share in 2010. India 2008 19,00,635 35.98 Tourism would do good to negate this 2009 18,17,517 35.17 declining trend 2010 19,77,992 34.25 and be proactive.

2: United Kingdom 2011 arrival figures are promising Year Arrivals % share but not enough for 2008 7,76,530 14.70 the target set 2009 7,69,251 14.89 for the 12th Five 2010 7,59,494 13.15 Year Plan.

Source: market globally

The UNWTO forecast indicates an increasing tourism preference towards East Asia, the Pacific, West Asia and South Asia and that is good news for countries like India. Dipak Deva, CEO, Destination Management, India & South Asia, Sita, says, “With this gradual shift in focus, the outlook for the growth of tourism in the region is promising.

However, the European economic situation will continue to be a challenge, especially since Europe is India’s biggest source market.”

Predicting a steady growth in 2012 somewhat marred by the global economic climate, Bharat Atree, Managing Director, Caper Travel says, “India is a unique product and has variety to offer for different customer profile. Besides, India, as a brand, has also improved over a period of time. Inbound Tourism in India for 2012 will grow with consistent pace though global economic slowdown will impact its growth and put road-

blocks. The target share of 1 per cent of global tourism by 2016 would be possible if marketed well.”

Contd. on page 24

BULLETIN

Canada to host 50 Indian agents at ‘Focus Canada – India’ in Goa As a part of Canadian Tourism Commission’s (CTC) focussed destination marketing strategy to grow India as one of Canada’s key future source markets, the event scheduled from March 13-15 will bring over 50 Canadian suppliers to Goa to showcase their products to potential Indian buyers.

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urthering its focussed marketing promotions to engage with the Indian trade, CTC has announced the venue of its flagship regional market development event, ‘Focus Canada – India’ for 2012 that it will organise for the India market. Park

Focus Canada - India Venue Park Hyatt, Goa

Dates March 13-15, 2012

Hyatt in Goa will play host to the event for the Indian market.

The event is scheduled from March 13-15, 2012. The Event is expected to attract potential buyers from across India, interested in promoting Canada.

According to Derek Galpin, Managing Director – India & China, CTC, “Ever since CTC opened our offices in India in August 2009, we have consciously chosen to support the travel agents and tour operators in India. The Indian outbound traveller still

Derek Galpin Managing Director – India & China CTC

prefers to book through the travel agents. This is despite being active on and gaining so much knowledge on their

choice of holiday destination through the internet. It is therefore important for CTC to educate and familiarise agents on the destination and that has been done with our online educational tool - The Canada Specialist Programme-where now more than 1800 agents have qualified. Focus Canada creates an opportunity for the Indian Outbound agents to meet their Canadian counterparts in a professional business atmosphere and achieves the objective of building relationships, sharing market intelligence and providing excellent Contd. on page 18

STATISTICS

2012: International tourist arrivals to touch 1 bn mark

VIEWPOINT

2012 woes

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he recently released UNWTO longterm tourism forecast predicts that in 2012, world tourism will show caution, reticence and move along at a moderate pace of 3.3 per cent. Respite will come from factors such as rising incomes in emerging markets, arrested unemployment numbers in the Euro zone and disposable incomes in mature markets. While the growth in travel will remain positive, it will be considerably slower than previous years.

It will be a tough year for the countries of the Euro zone, however cheer will be provided by countries in the Asia Pacific region, including China, India, Japan and the South East Asian countries. India and China are the two main countries that are expected to buck this recessionary trend.

Although according to the latest GDP and consumer spend data India and Brazil are weakening, which means lesser demand for travel than previously expected. Even as the Indian growth has been downgraded, most experts are undivided in their opinion that Asia is the powerhouse of possibility. According to the 2011 World Wealth Report from Capgemini and Merrill Lynch Global Wealth Management, Asia Pacific is now home to more wealthy people than all of Europe; the number of multi-millionaires in the region has grown nearly 10% to 3.3 million while Europe’s equivalent population increased only 6% to 3.1 million. This very well-off group naturally has a high propensity to travel. As Asia becomes more affluent, so are demands.

They are no longer just satisfied by travelling in groups but actively seek specialised products, experiences and luxury.

Along with the rest of the Asian countries, Indonesia, Philippines and Vietnam should be watched as major outbound markets.

Vikramajit Chairman SanJeet Publisher Rupali Narasimhan Editorial Director Deepa Sethi Editor

Editorial Shayan Mallick Ratan Kr Paul Megha Paul Anita Jain Justin Thomas Desk-Editor Archana Sharma Sub-Editor Raina Mandal Divya Goyal Photographer Simran Kaur

Advertising Gunjan Sabikhi General Manager N. Sanjiba Singh Sr. Manager Marketing Karishma Khanna Sr. Manager Marketing Manish Mangla Asst. Manager-Marketing Amit Sarkar Sr. Marketing Co-ordinator Advertising (Mumbai) Suchita Saran Branch Manager

International tourist arrivals grew by over 4% in 2011 to 980 million, according to the latest UNWTO World Tourism Barometer. With growth expected to continue in 2012 at a somewhat slower rate, the international tourist arrivals are on track to reach the milestone of one billion mark later this year. Excerpts: TT B U R E AU

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NWTO forecasts international tourism to continue growing in 2012 although at a slower rate. Arrivals are expected to increase by 3% to 4%, reaching the historic one billion mark by the end of the year. Emerging economies will regain the lead with stronger growth in Asia, the Pacific and Africa (4% to 6%), followed by America and Europe (2% to 4%). The Middle East (0% to +5%), according to the forecast, will start recovering part of its losses from 2011. These “International tourism hit new records in 2011 despite the challenging conditions,” said Taleb Rifai, Secretary-General, UNWTO. “For a sector directly responsible for 5% of the world’s GDP, 6% of the total exports and employing one out of every 12 people in advanced and emerging economies like this results are encouraging, coming as they do at a time in which we urgently need levers to stimulate growth and job creation,” he added.

closely follows the positive trend in the arrivals.

Among the top ten tourist destinations, receipts were up significantly in the USA (+12%), Spain (+9%), Hong Kong (China) (+25%) and the UK (+7%). The good news is that India features among top spenders and thus, continues to be a critical source market. The top spenders were led by emerging source markets – China (+38%), Russia (+21%), Brazil (+32%) and India (+32%) – followed

prospects are confirmed by the UNWTO Confidence Index. The 400 UNWTO Panel of Experts from around the globe expects the tourism sector to perform positively in 2012, though somewhat weaker than last year.

According to UNWTO, international tourist arrivals grew by 4.4% in 2011 to a total 980 million, up from 939 million in 2010, in a year characterised by a stalled global economic recovery, major political changes in the Middle East and North Africa as well as natural disasters in Japan.

By region, Europe (+6%) was the best performer while by subregion SouthAmerica (+10%) topped the ranking. Contrary to previous years, the growth was higher in advanced

Harshal Ashar Deputy General Manager Advertising (South India) Vinu V Nair Regional Head-South India Advertisement Designers Vikas Mandotia Nitin Kumar Renuka Mahich Design: Nityanand Misra Sudhir Mudgal Production: Anil Kharbanda Circulation: Ashok Rana

economies (+5.0%) than in emerging ones (+3.8%), due largely to the strong results in Europe and the setbacks in the Middle East and North Africa.

TRAVTALK is a publication of Durga Das Publications Private Limited.

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Receipts confirm positive trend in arrivals Available data on the international tourism receipts and expenditure for 2011

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by traditional markets, with the growth in expenditure of travellers from Germany (+4%) and the USA (+5%) above the levels of previous years.

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NEWS

FEBRUARY 2 ND FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2012

TRAVTALK

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HC’s intervention sought on Weekly Payment System IATA Agents Associations of India (IAAI) seeks High Court’s intervention against IATA’s move to weekly payment system. For the same, the Court has directed to serve notice to all the respondents.

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he case has been posted for hearing on February 20, 2012. According to a communication received from IAAI office, on January 23, 2012, the civil suit – ‘IAAI Members V/s IATA Singapore and IATA India’ against the implementation of weekly payment system that obliterates the ordinary travel agents in India, was heard by the Madras High Court.

According to IAAI, the

Biji Eapen President, IAAI

Madras High Court has directed to serve notice to all respondents immediately and the case is posted for hearing on February 20, 2012.

IAAI says that this is the second time in the history of IATA – India that High Court’s intervention has been sought, this time ‘against IATA’s sinister move on Weekly Payment System’. In August 2002, the civil case IAAI V/s IATA &

Resolution 818g – Section 1 1.1: AGENCY PROGRAMME JOINT COUNCIL 1.1.2.3 : In the event that no recommendation on changes to financial criteria can be achieved after consultation at an APJC within 24 months or 4 consecutive meetings (whichever represents the shorter period of time), any APJC member or group of members may make proposals directly to the Passenger Agency Conference

Agency Programme Joint Council (APJC) - India, against the ` 20 lakhs minimum Bank guarantee and the Diminishing Bank Guarantee based on credibility & aging, the Hon. Court of Kerala abolished ‘IATA’s new financial criteria’ and later the Travel Agency Commissioner had quashed same, said the IAAI communique.

This is the second time in Indian Aviation History that the Indian Judiciary is admitting and hearing a case against IATA – the

International Air Transport forum at Singapore and in India. There are four respondents to the case who have been asked to serve notice by the Madras High Court, namely, IATA India, IATA Singapore, IATA Chennai and DGCA. Contending that the rule was not followed in imple-

menting the Weekly Payment System, Biji Eapen, President, IAAI said that the IATA rule provides for weekly payment in case the economic condition of a country warrants that situation and the weekly payment is implemented with the agreement and concurrence of APJC. “The Airline can directly

propose weekly payment to PAConf (Passenger Agency Conference) only if four consecutive meetings of APJC in a year failed to make a concurrence on the issue. This wasn’t the case here as there were only two meetings held on Aug 12 and Aug 24 in 2011.

Besides, there was no concur-

rence by APJC on the issue.

The industry is surprised to see that what was the sudden need for such emergency meetings of APJC in a span of 12 days,” wondered Eapen. IAAI’s pleadings were mainly based on the presentation made by IAAI at PAConf at Singapore on Oct.

12, 2011, giving more emphasis on the fact that APJC – India had only two meetings after migrating to IATA Res. # 818g effective from June 1, 2011 in India as against the 4 consecutive meetings in a year as per the stipulation as contained in IATA Resolution 818g 1.1.1.3.

MOT

Religious Tourism: 7 new circuits Tourism Ministry is planning 7 new circuits covering six religions and ‘Sarva Dharma’. Tourism minister has asked for a strong support from State Governments to ensure success.

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even tourist circuits will be developed across India

by Tourism Ministry to promote religious tourism.

engaged consultants to work on these circuits and hope to engage State Governments in the project,” he added. The ministry will identify

“India is home to a number of religions and there is a huge scope in terms of boosting tourism to religious places,” said Subodh Kant Sahai, Union Minister of Tourism.

The Minister said his ministry is preparing a detailed project report to identify religious places where people can visit and stay for spiritual nourishment.

The aim of the project, he added, is to facilitate a packaged tour like experience for people who visit religious places. “We have already

Pradesh, Maharashtra, Uttarakhand and Uttar Pradesh. The ‘Sarva Dharma Circuit’ will be aligned along Tirupathi-ChennaiVelankanni-Nagoor and Vaishnodevi-Golden TempleSacred Heart Church (Delhi)Nizamuddin to promote national integration.

The Ministry has taken up the matter with industry stakeholders and has identified 35 destinations for Phase I and will cover another 89 in Phase II.

Subodh Kant Sahai Union Minister of Tourism

Buddhist, Christian, Hindu, Jain, Sikh, Sufi and Sarva Dharma places.

While the Christian circuit will have the churches of Goa, Kerala and Tamil Nadu, the Sufi circuit will include places in Delhi, Haryana, Jammu and Kashmir, Madhya

Across Circuits The Christian circuit will have the churches of Goa, Kerala and Tamil Nadu The Sufi circuit will include places in Delhi, Haryana, Jammu and Kashmir, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Uttarakhand and Uttar Pradesh

45 mega destinations and tourist circuits across states MOT has marked out 45 spots for further developing infrastructure and converting them into world-class destinations. Out of these, 30 have already been sanctioned.

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he Ministry of Tourism (MOT), has identified 45 Mega Tourist Destinations/Circuits in consultation with the concerned State Governments / Union Territories (UT) Administrations on the basis

of footfalls and their future tourism potential. Out of the 45 identified projects, 30 have already been sanctioned.

For each identified mega destination and circuit, the MOT contribution as central financial assistance is capped at ` 25 crore and

Some of the prestigious projects cleared lately are •

•

•

National Park Mega Circuit covering Manas, Orang, Nameri, Kaziranga, Jorhat, Sibsagar & Majouli in Assam, Development of Dilli Haat, Janakpuri in Delhi and Shuklatirth-Kabirvad-Mangleshwar-Angareshwar Circuit in Gujarat Mubarak Mandi Heritage Complex in Jammu and Naagar Nagar Circuit (Watlab via Hazratbal, Tulmullah, Mansbal and Wullar Lake) in Srinagar. Development of Mega Circuit in Leh is also on the cards. Mega Destination at Deoghar in Jharkhand has been included in the list. Muziris Heritage Circuit connecting historically and archaeologically important places of Kodungalloor in Kerala Bundelkhand comprising Tikamgarh, Damoh, Sagar, Chhatarpur and Panna as Mega Circuit in Madhya Pradesh. Mahaur-Nanded Vishnupuri-Back Water Kandhar Fort as Mega Circuit in Maharashtra.

Development of Mathura-Vrindavan including renovation of Vishramghat as Mega Destination in Uttar Pradesh

` 50 crore respectively under the scheme of ‘Product / Infrastructure Development for Destinations and Circuits’.

Identification and sanctioning of mega tourism projects are a continuous process. Proposals submitted by States/UTs for mega tourist destinations/circuits, are sanctioned based on prioritisation meetings held with the State Governments /UT Administrations subject to the availability of funds, priority and adherence to scheme guidelines.

MOT Plan Contribution as central financial assistance is capped at ` 25 crore and ` 50 crore Proposals submitted by States/UTs for mega tourist destinations/circuits, are sanctioned based on prioritisation meetings held with the State Governments /UT Administrations

8 TRAVTALK

FEBRUARY 2 ND FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2012

AVIATION

Hike in aeronautical charges

DIAL says YES, Airlines say NO Even if the regulator assumption for hike is taken into account, it will make DIAL among the top operators in airport charges.

JUSTIN THOMAS

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ith a certain increase in airfares expected for travellers using Delhi airport, Airport Economic Regulatory Authority (AERA) is awaiting

Hike and Woes A 20% growth in the domestic air travel sector was made possible only because of the low-cost carriers. The Airlines were compelled to keep low fares due to competition.

Charges at DIAL would become the highest in the world with 334% increase in present charges, as proposed by the Regulator Presently, airlines will not be able to sustain this increase

responses from airlines to finalise hike in aeronautical charges requested

by Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL).

Speaking to , Yashwant S Bhave, Chairman, AERA says, “Aeronautical charges are primarily based on four elements like rate of Return on Equity, traffic forecast, hypothetical Regulatory asset base and treatment of Refundable Security Deposit among other factors. DIAL quoted a figure of 774 per cent hike based on its assumptions. Our calculations suggested that 334 per cent is the correct figure.”

In a meeting called by the Regulator, which was attended by officials of DIAL, AAI, IATA, Delhi government, MIAL, BIAL and airlines representatives, the air-

DIAL quoted 774% hike based on its assumptions while our calculations suggested 334% as the correct figure Yashwant S Bhave Chairman, AERA

lines vehemently opposed the proposed hike. “We strongly oppose the proposed increase as this will lead to a drastic fall in the number of passengers,” remarked Vineeta Bhandari, Executive Director, Air India.

We strongly oppose the proposed increase as this will lead to a drastic fall in the number of passengers Vineeta Bhandari Executive Director Air India

Kamal Hingorani, Senior Vice President, SpiceJet said, “A 20 per cent growth in the domestic air travel sector was made possible only because of the low-cost carriers. The Airlines were compelled to

The taxes on ATF will have negative impact on airlines and may lead to even closure of some airlines

Even 334% increase proposed by the Authority cannot be absorbed by the market

Kamal Hingorani Senior Vice President SpiceJet

Malvyn Tan Assistant Director IATA

keep low fares due to competition. The taxes on ATF will have negative impact on airlines. In view of the same, the proposed increase may lead to even closure of some airlines.”

Director, IATA. He pointed out that charges at DIAL would become the highest in the world with 334 per cent increase in present charges, as proposed by the Regulator.

IATA stated that this is a financial assessment and not market assessment.

“Even 334 per cent increase proposed by the Authority cannot be absorbed by the market and presently, airlines cannot sustain this increase,” says Malvyn Tan, Assistant

Foreign airlines supported IATA’s views and expressed that Delhi is a profitable airport but it is badly structured. “Similar proposal is expected soon from MIAL and we will finalise the tariff for DIAL,” informs Bhave.

10 TRAVTALK

FEBRUARY 2 ND FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2012

ASSOCIATIONS

Opportunity awaits OTOAI members: Sahni From networking to influencing international tourism policies, Outbound Tour Operators Association of India (OTOAI) members will benefit from the association’s pro-active approach towards increasing members’ efficiency and competitiveness, says Guldeep Singh Sahni, President, OTOAI. S H AYA N M A L L I C K

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TOAI, the outbound trade representative body of India, launched in December last year, is now beginning to spread its pan-India presence amidst an overwhelming response from the players in

Guldeep Singh Sahni President OTOAI

outbound trade, both from India and overseas, says Sahni.

The Association recently launched its Western India Chapter and is now readying

to replicate the same in other regions as well in order to bring the outbound trade across India under one strong unit.

Talking to about the gains for the outbound trade from OTOAI, he said, “OTOAI members will have access to a world of opportunities, from networking with various stakeholders of the Global Travel Industry to assisting them in framing international tourism policies through close linkage with the Government. OTOAI’s proactive approach will focus on helping members increase their efficiency and competitiveness.”

Sahni said that the organisation aspires to be the leading voice on global issues relating to outbound tourism with the concerned authorities while propagating fairness, market efficiency and customer protection simulta-

OTOAI launches its ‘Western India Chapter’ keeping this in mind. Our main focus will be on getting all those working in this sector together and open to them a world of opportunities which they can explore to serve tourism better and bring in healthy competition with great service. We look forward to working keeping in mind Government policies Mahendra Vakharia Narindra Pal Singh Marwah Himanshu Patil General Secretary Treasurer Chairperson and global trends that Pathfinders Holidays, Ahmedabad Marwah Tours and Travels, Nagpur Kesari Tours, Mumbai affect our business. It will also provide a great platform to share ideas and chapters soon. Patil said, “As Chapter. OTOAI’s Western opportunity to give back to rightly stated that ‘united we India Chapter will be headed the society.” stand’, OTOAI was formed

by Kesari Tours’ Himanshu Less than two months in existence, OTOAI has recently launched its Western India

neously. He also said that OTOAI will help identify real players in outbound tourism for NTOs, Sellers, DMCs and various government bodies.

Patil from Mumbai as Chairperson. The Association is expected to announce other

OTOAI is dedicated towards enhancing the ethical and professional standards in the travel and tourism industry. The association aims to foster an envi-

ronment of collaboration with various stakeholders through its ideology of collective ambition to bring forth quality standard and reliability.

Members to Gain Learning Global trends that affect your business Industry best practices on competitiveness Improve internal efficiency and productivity Get an insight into Government policies and their impact on businesses and work closely with ministries & embassies.

Networking Networking opportunities with Indian and Global Travel Industry stakeholders Platform to enhance business and develop newer markets To provide platform with passport authorities, visa services

Sharing Share your best practices Enhance competitiveness of Indian Travel Industry

Caring Opportunity to give back to society Recognition for an ethical conduct

AVIATION

FEBRUARY 2 ND FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2012

TRAVTALK

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AirAsia X suspends services to New Delhi & Mumbai Visa restrictions between India and Malaysia and increased airport handling charges have led Malaysia’s lowcost, long-haul airline, AirAsia X, to discontinue its flights to New Delhi and Mumbai. explores further.

D E V I KA J E E T

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he four weekly services to Mumbai and daily services to New Delhi will be suspended with the last flight to both cities on January 31 and March 22 respectively.

“The continued visa restrictions for travel between India and Malaysia, and the increase in airport and handling charges have resulted in a structure not conducive to the low-cost

Suresh Nair Regional Manager & Country Head, India Sri Lanka & Bangladesh, AirAsia

model,” says Azran OsmanRani, CEO, AirAsia X. Soon after the route was launched in 2010, the Malaysian Government removed Visa-on-Arrival facilities, thus putting the route under pressure. The estimated 340 per cent increase in airport charges, this April, was the trigger for the decision stated by the air-

Govt backs up Air India Clearly sending out a signal that government will back Air India which is caught in a financial turbulence, Civil Aviation ministry has proposed equity of ` 19,911 crore as budgetary support for Air India in the 12th Five Year Plan. This is consistent with a previous missive taken out by a Group of Ministers (GoM) who had recommended infusion of ` 23,000 crore of equity into the ailing airline by 2020-21.

The amount is over and above the last few rounds of equity infusions that have taken the carrier’s paid-up capital to ` 3,345 crore. The new rounds of infusion, will be used partly to capitalise some of Air India’s debt, which now stands at ` 48,000 crore. Of this debt, ` 20,000 crore is owed to domestic banks, a restructuring of this part is under way.

line. While these are the reasons highlighted by the airline, a recent Centre for Asia Pacific Aviation (CAPA) report shows a different picture. It states that the airline's ticket distribution strategy in India was far more of a disadvantage than the specified reasons. The majority of tickets

purchased in India are not sold directly through airlines but via travel agents or online travel agencies (OTA). For the former, AirAsia X offered no commission, gaining them little support among retailers.

At the same time, for OTAs, AirAsia's exclusive joint venture with Expedia blocked the

carrier from distributing tickets through India's three local and dominating OTAs, namely, MakeMyTrip, ClearTrip and Yatra.

But it’s not all grey for the Indian market. “From March 22, Thai Air Asia also plans to start five flights a week on the Chennai-Bangkok

route. The Airline will continue to operate daily flights from Bengaluru, Chennai, Kochi, Kolkata and Tiruchirappalli to Kuala Lumpur, as well as an A320 flight between Bangkok and Delhi,” says Suresh Nair, Regional Manager & Country Head, India, Sri Lanka & Bangladesh, AirAsia.

The Air Asia group, serving the highest number of weekly seats between Malaysia and India before the decision to pull out, is hopeful in reinstating services to India once these structural issues are resolved. “India is a huge market and we will be back soon,” adds Nair.

12 TRAVTALK

STATES

FEBRUARY 2 ND FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2012

Pilgrimage Tourism to be boosted in Nagaland The State is looking at newer avenues to boost tourism numbers but a strong system needs to be in place to sustain it.

Developing Pilgrimage Tourism based on historical importance, Nagaland Government is targetting to develop Chesezu in Phek district as a spot for social pilgrimage where the last camp of Netaji Subash Chandra Bose was situated and has also made request for a religious pilgrimage at Molungyimsen in Mokokchung district, where Dr. E. W. Clark, the first missionary to Nagaland, had set foot.

“Government is giving special attention towards Cultural Tourism in Nagaland. However, except the Hornbill festival, tribal festivals and cultural days, the regular cultural activities are not held where tourists can come easily during any season to witness the vibrant cultural heritage of the Nagas,” says Yitachu, Parliamentary Secretary

Tourism. In the context of Nagaland, he was of the view that the State is yet to make the fullest use of the tourism activities. “Cultural Tourism in Nagaland is readymade

‘Greeny’ for Green Maharashtra Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC) has joined hands with the State Forest Department to make Maharashtra an EcoTourism state by introducing ‘Greeny, the Great’ mascot for the drive.

A N I TA J A I N

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but we are not yet ready to use it systematically,” he admitted.

Citing a recent survey, which said that the number of tourists around the globe is about to cross 1 billion, Yitachu explained that immense opportunities and revenue can be generated if Nagaland can pull in 0.1 percent of those tourists.

He further added that most advanced countries depend on funds generated by the tourism industry, but Nagaland had failed to make the fullest use of tourism activities and promote the industry.

n a first-of-its-kind campaign, MTDC recently announced its commitment for Sustainable Tourism by launching ‘Greeny, the Great’, an animated sapling, as their brand ambassador to spread awareness about green and responsible tourism.

The body is urging the tourism stakeholders and local public to regulate vehicular traffic at tourist spots and beaches and has also decided to construct more green buildings in the state.

For the same, MTDC has joined hands with the State Forest Department to ensure sustainable tourism in the forest and wildlife sanctuaries, especially in eco-sensitive zones, and ensure cleanliness, safety and protection of marine life on beaches.

In 2010, Maharashtra Pollution Control Board

(MPCB) made it mandatory to install sewage-treatment plants within the premises of hotels, clubs and resorts to help recycle 80 per cent of the sewage-contaminated

Dilip Shinde Joint Managing Director MTDC

water for non-potable use.

However, many hoteliers still do not keep up with the listed sustainability standards.

Showing concern on the current situation, Dilip Shinde, Joint Managing Director, MTDC said,

‘Greeny’ to promote Green Tourism MTDC has introduced ‘Greeny’, an animated sapling that depicts how the normal behaviour of tourist is so disastrous to the environment. ‘Greeny’ will be promoted through 10 different short films on different types of pollution on various elements of nature and furthermore through hoardings and puppet shows at various tourist sites and events.

“Indians are known as the best law makers and worst implementers. Tourists visit natural environment and degrade it through vehicular pollution, love watching animals in wild or caged but end up provoking them.

To reduce this peril, it is necessary to regulate and implement responsible

tourism activities in the state before it’s too late. In order to make long-term profitable sustainable business, the stakeholders have to make short-term losses in their business model.”

Go Green In 2010, Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) made it mandatory to install sewage-treatment plants within the premises of hotels, clubs and resorts to help recycle 80 per cent of the sewage-contaminated water for non-potable use

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IRCTC unveils mobile website In a bid to attract the increasingly mobile traveller, the Ministry of Railways’ undertaking, the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC), has started a mobile website to facilitate bookings via mobile phones. The Corporation has also tied-up with mobile payment service providers for mobile phone applications that can be used to book tickets viz. NGPAY, ATOM and Paymate.

According to a statement issued by IRCTC, a user can use his existing www.irctc.co.in user ID to enquire or book tickets through the mobile website. The application is functional on most GPRS/browser-based phones. After booking a ticket, the passenger will receive a message with full details of the ticket including PNR, train number, date of journey, class etc.

This virtual message would be treated at par with the print-out of the e-ticket which is used at present.

Helicopter joyrides at Surajkund Crafts Mela For the first time, helicopter joyrides are available, giving visitors a chance to enjoy a bird’s eye view of the colourful Mela, with a helipad specially designed at the ground.

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he 26th Surajkund Crafts Mela organised by the Haryana Tourism recently kicked off on February 1.

This year special attention has been paid on a qualitative experience at the fair in the lines of the ‘Clean India’ campaign.

Talking about the new facilities at the event this year, RH Khwaja, Union Tourism Secretary and Chairman, Surajkund Mela Authority said, “This time, keeping in mind the new initiative launched by the Ministry of Tourism (MOT), eco-friendly measures have been taken.”

“Going forward, there are many firsts this year; e-tickets, a 50 per cent discount on entry tickets for senior citizens and the dis-

abled, and e-toilet facilitating auto cleaning service. Also, use of plastics will be discouraged.” Golf carts and batteryoperated rickshaws for visitors are also available.

of the State is invited as the chief guest for the Republic Day celebration in New Delhi will be invited as the partner nation for the Surajkund fair. For

Surajkund Crafts Mela gate has been designed aesthetically keeping in mind the beauty of the fair

Moreover, three Eurasian or Central Asian countries including Tajikistan, Uzbekistan and Kyrgystan are also present.

Also, West African country Congo is participating in the event.

RH Khwaja

Anand Mohan Sharan

Union Tourism Secretary & Chairman, Surajkund Mela Authority

Managing Director Haryana Tourism

Thailand is participating as the partner nation in the event. Starting from this year, the nation whose Head

the first time, all the SAARC countries are participating in the grand festival as well, Khwaja informed.

Anand Mohan Sharan, Managing Director Haryana Tourism said, “The Mela Authority has tried to improve this year. One of the new innovative measures would be the introduction of chopper

rides in the fair. For the first time, helicopter joyrides are available at the fair, giving visitors a chance to enjoy a bird’s eye view of the colourful Mela with a helipad specially designed for the purpose at the fair grounds.”

“After taking all statutory clearances from DGCA, airforce and district administration, the helicopters are available during the fair for joyrides of up to five minutes,” he informed.

‘M.V. Mahabaahu’ to float on Brahmaputra from February 28 The biggest and the most modern state-of-the-art cruise liner ‘M.V. Mahabaahu’ on River Brahmaputra will be launched on February 28. explores further. tourism products in the state.

The national parks have a very fragile and sensitive eco-system which cannot sustain mass tourism.

Pilgrimage is our biggest draw for mass tourism with temples at Kamakhya and Majuli,” he added.

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uoyed by the growing interest in the state, Assam is all set to promote River Tourism. After showcasing wildlife and culture, Assam Tourism is now focussing on Cruise Tourism in the Brahmaputra River.

The biggest and the most modern state-of-the-art cruise liner M.V. Mahabaahu on River Brahmaputra will be launched on February 28, 2012.

Talking about the development, Himangshu Sekhar Das, Principal Secretary, Finance and Tourism Departments, Assam revealed

Sailing Smooth The river cruise which is funded by Assam Tourism and Faridabad-based Far Horizon Tours will target the high-end segment It will be operated on a revenue sharing basis between Assam Tourism and the private player

Himangshu Sekhar Das Principal SecretaryFinance and Tourism Departments, Assam

that the cruise ship has already reached Guwahati.

The Principal Secretary was in Delhi on the eve of the inauguration of the 26th Surajkund Craft Mela where Assam is the ‘Theme State’ this year. The river cruise which is funded

by Assam Tourism and Faridabad-based Far Horizon Tours will target the high-end segment and will be operated on a revenue sharing basis between Assam Tourism and the private player, he informed.

“We are looking at highend international tourists, especially for Eco-Adventure

The State is betting big on domestic tourism in the country. According to Das, there has been a spurt of domestic tourists in Assam.

Last year, the state received 45 lakh domestic tourists and 15,000 foreign tourists, Das said.

The ongoing 26th Surajkund Mela presents the Assamese way of life complete with an ‘Assam Ghar’ where a family would live for the next 15 days depicting day-to-day rural life.

Traditional handicrafts and handloom and cultural programmes would be on display and Assamese food would be served. The Principal Secretary said that some 50 stalls would showcase handlooms of which 30 would be for the weavers.

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Sikkim takes the ‘culture’ way to revive tourism The State government has finally announced a slew of measures to bring in tourists to the state after the earthquake with ‘Sikkim Snow’ & ‘Culture Festival 2012’.

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ikkim government has decided to undertake a year-long tourism recovery mission to bring tourism in the state back to its preearthquake level. In connection with ‘Sikkim Snow’ and ‘Culture Festival 2012’, Bhim Prasad Dhungel, Tourism Minister, Sikkim stated, “A clear-cut message will be sent to the rest of the country and even abroad stating that Sikkim remains the safest and the most popular destination for the tourists.” Describing the Sikkim Snow and Culture Festival scheduled for February 14-29 as the first step under the mission,

Etihad Airways offers free 96-hour UAE Visas to guests Etihad Airways is offering complimentary 96hour tourist visas to guests transiting through the UAE, effective immediately. The visas, ideal for travellers making stopover visits en-route to their final destination are being offered in cooperation with Radisson Blu hotel on Yas Island .

The offer is valid for travellers previously eligible for Etihad Airways’ paid-for visa service (available at a cost of AED 300), including passport holders from Bangladesh, Belarus, Canada, China, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Egypt, India, Indonesia, Iraq, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Lebanon, Morocco, Nepal, Pakistan, Philippines, Russia, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Syria, Thailand, Turkey and Vietnam. Eligible guests must have confirmed overnight accommodation at the Radisson Blu Yas Island , available at promotional rates from US$ 70 per person per night.

To book accommodation and apply for a complimentary visa, guests can visit etihad.com/freeuaevisa. A passport copy and passport-sized photograph are required for processing visa applications.

Dhungel said that it will be followed by the ‘Sikkim Youth Adventure Festival2012’ in March.

Sikkim Tourism is finding it hard to recover from the last year’s devastating earthquake. To revive tourism, Government of Sikkim has decided to take

several steps and increase tourist arrivals to the State.

Since the earthquake, tourism hasn’t managed to recover in the state. Tour Operators blame state government for doing very little to encourage tourists.

According to them, government made a very little effort

to tell tourists that Sikkim is once again open to welcome them. However, it seems that the government has finally woken up.

Speaking on the occasion, Lukendra Rasaily, President, Travel Agents Association of Sikkim (TAAS) informed that a variety of

activities will be organised to woo tourists during the 15day long Snow Festival. This will include skiing, mountain biking, trekking, paragliding, rock climbing and other adventures, besides folk song, folk dance and local food festivals. The Tourism Minister also launched the website of the Sikkim Snow and Culture Festival www.sikkimsnowfest.com and publicity material for the festival.

Tourism in Sikkim The Sikkim Snow and Culture Festival scheduled for February 14-29, 2012 which will be followed by the ‘Sikkim Youth Adventure Festival-2012’ in March The Tourism Minister has also launched the website of the Sikkim Snow and Culture Festival

NTO

India scores 2nd as a key source market for Abu Dhabi Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority records a significant rise in Indian arrivals with 1,08,170 overnights in 2011 and an escalation of 30% compared to 2010.

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bu Dhabi Tourism Authority (ADTA) has seen a massive positive shift in the arrival of Indian trav-

Mubarak Al Nuaimi International Promotions Manager ADTA

ellers in the recent years. ADTA had organised its four-city roadshow in India this month, India being the second largest source markets for Abu Dhabi. This

ADTA & Etihad Airways hosted TAAI members ADTA recently hosted the quarterly, out-of-country meeting of 25 TAAI members (Executive Committee) in association with Etihad Airways to build awareness about the destination. Iqbal Mulla, President, TAAI portrayed Abu Dhabi as ‘an eye opener’. He said, “Indians usually travel on a seven to ten day break, so it would be ideal to stay in Dubai, with a few days in Abu Dhabi. It could also be a leadin to more consumers getting to know the destination who then may return for longer, stand-alone days.” is the second roadshow organised by ADTA in the last six months (September 2011) to build its B2B relations with the Indian tour operators.

“India has a booming market and since, we as a destination, have entered late in India, we provide a sense of freshness and crispness to the Indian travel enthusiasts.

To meet the increasing demand, we intend to have

additional 3,500 rooms to the current 21,368 rooms by 2012,” informed Mubarak Al Nuaimi, International Promotions Manager, ADTA. Al Nuaimi said, “We plan to arrange a venture with 3-5 tour operators in New Delhi and Mumbai.

We plan to set up a series of tactical promotional and novel strategies of expanding our market share together with them.”

VUSACOM comes out with set objectives for this year With its re-activation in October last year, VUSACOM India Chapter has already set objectives and plans for this year to increase Indian footfalls in USA. T T B U R E AU

companies will be offered the membership at an annual fee of ` 5,000 and hotels and DMCs will be charged ` 25,000 for the same.

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ormed in 2003 (became defunct in 2005) and relaunched in October 2011, Visit USA Committee (VUSACOM) India Chapter is an independent voluntary organisation with an objective of increasing tourism from India to the USA. The India Chapter is on final stages of releasing its registration forms for establishing

Manoj Gursahani Vice President VUSACOM

VUSACOM takes off for India The US Embassy in India has eased the visa process in Mumbai by adding more counters and facilities. Richard Rothman, Commercial Consul, US Consulate said, “We have tripled our counters in Mumbai and across India according to our data, India is the fastest growing country in terms of tourism and business for USA. Over 6,50,000 Indians visited USA last year, spending close to US$ 4 billion. By 2016, the numbers are expected to grow by 50%, so we have already started to deal with the future demand. VUSACOM has taken off like speeding bullet with unique and innovative style of workshops on USA as a destination.” a membership base in India.

It is positive to achieve a member base of 300 in next

six months and over 500 before the end of this year.

Travel agencies and tour

Divulging further details on the future plans, Manoj Gursahani, Vice President, VUSACOM said, “We are receiving close to 5 registration requests on our website every day. In just 3-4 months, we have successfully managed to organise 5-6 workshops and seminars on USA as a destination. Our main objective is to increase tourism from India to USA and enhance the travel on the same. We will be organising unique and innovative workshops and seminars to simplify the USA travel products and planning and also bring in suppliers from USA to meet our members from time to time.”

Alongside, it is also going to start fam trips for the Indian trade and media to some of the unique and unexplored destinations in USA from this year.

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FEBRUARY 2 ND FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2012

300% growth in arrivals in last 6 years

Outbound grows to Canada

Indonesia witnessed a strong growth of 300% in Indian arrivals to the country in the last 6 years. Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy (MOTCE) in Indonesia confirmed that India is one of its top 10 source markets.

business opportunities. CTC hosts Indian agents in two such events annually. Without this focus and the encouraging response from the Indian agents, we would not have been able to achieve the growth in arrivals from India to Canada. We will continue with these efforts in hosting 50 Indian agents at the forthcoming ‘Focus Canada’ event in Goa from March 1315. We have changed the format (and the name) this year to offer more education and information on marketing Canada on the first day prior to the more traditional B2B sessions.

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alking about the aggressive marketing strategy in India, an official from the MOTCE informed, “The Visit Indonesia Tourism Office (VITO) based in New Delhi will assist the MOTCE in their promotions with participation at key travel marts, special consumer offers via Indian travel and retail partners, training sessions about Indonesia for the Indian outbound tour operators, online promotions in the key travel websites and fam tours to Indonesia for influential media and travel partners.”

In order to promote destinations beyond Bali for a wholesome experience, the market segments that MOTCE plans to tap includes leisure, family, adventure, honeymoon, culture/religious and MICE segments.

Indian visitors to Indonesia from 2005 – 2011 Year Total Visitors

2005

2006

2007

2008

58,359

94,258

1,23,465

1,55,391

NA

0.38

0.24

0.21

Growth

2009

2010

2011

1,56,545 1,59,373

1,60,000

0.1

0.2 Slight Growth

(Figures provided by VITO)

According to the figures provided by VITO, the growing interest in Indonesia within the Indian outbound market is reflected in the arrival numbers from India that rose almost 300 per cent in the six years from 2005 to 2011.

Indian travellers to Indonesia have been showing a year on year growth in numbers. In 2010, as many as 1,59,373 Indians visited Indonesia and in 2011, the number touched 1,60,000 to witness a slight growth.

MOTCE also confirmed that India is one of its top 10 source markets. Post the ASEAN Tourism Forum 2012 that was recently concluded

VITO & MOTCE Plans VITO will assist the MOTCE in their promotions with participation at key travel marts, special consumer offers via Indian travel and retail partners, training sessions about Indonesia for the Indian outbound tour operators, online promotions in key travel websites and fam tours to Indonesia for influential media and travel partners

at Manado in Indonesia, Wardiyatmo, Secretary General, MOTCE, had said

that cooperation between ASEAN – India could be done through joint promotion, increased tourism human resources through capacity building activities and the introduction of new tourism packages through product development such as Hindu temples, Sufi buildings, shopping and health verticals. “The role of ASEAN’s partner countries in the development of tourism through the dialogue participants, such as India, Russia, China, Japan, and Korea will continue to improve in order to make ASEAN a world-class tourist destination,” he said during the forum.

Contd. from page 3

CTC had organised its last edition of ‘Focus Canada’ event in Goa in March last year where some 48 Canadian suppliers had met with an equal number of Indian travel agent buyers. Similarly at ‘Showcase Canada – Asia’, held in Busan, Korea in October 2011, CTC hosted 38 Indian agents for two days of scheduled meetings with over 60 Canadian tour operators, hotel chain representatives and destination tourism partners. “The results were very encouraging. More

new tour packages are now being offered for the coming summer season, unique experiences are being promoted and there is now much greater awareness that Canada is the permier four season destination. In effect, we are reaching our goal with the support of the Indian travel fraternity and will continue to support them in their efforts,” said Galpin.

CTC identifies India as one of its 11 key focused source markets worldwide and plans to develop in order to grow tourist arrivals to Canada.

The other identified markets are China, Japan and Korea, apart from India, from the Asian region; France, Germany and UK in Europe; US, Mexico and Brazil from America and Australia. The first ‘Focus Canada – India’ was organised in 2010 in New Delhi and Mumbai, followed by Goa in March 2011.

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FEBRUARY 2 ND FORTNIGHT ISSUE 2012

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Amari to bring the largest hotel in Punjab The 127-suite Amari Ludhiana that marks the entry of the Thailand-based ONYX Hospitality Group, is pegged to be the largest hotel in the Punjab region.

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NYX Hospitality Group, the Thai-based hotel management company, has been appointed by Apna Punjab Resorts to operate a new 127-suite Amari hotel in Ludhiana in Punjab. Marking the entry of the Amari brand into India, the hotel Amari Ludhiana will open in the second half of 2012.

Peter Henley President & Chief Executive Officer, ONYX Hospitality Group

Talking about the debut venture in India and the significance of the India market for the hotel group,

Vivanta by Taj - Hotels and Resorts arrives at Andhra Taj Hotels Resorts and Palaces recently announced an addition to the Vivanta by Taj portfolio with the opening of Vivanta by Taj Begumpet, Hyderabad.

With the launch of this hotel, the overall Vivanta

by Taj portfolio goes up to 23 hotels. This will be the first hotel under the Vivanta banner in Andhra Pradesh. It is the 5th property in Hyderabad by Taj Hotels Resorts & Palaces after Taj Banjara, Taj Krishna, Taj Deccan and the iconic Taj Falaknuma Palace.

Speaking on the launch of the new hotel, Raymond N Bickson, MD & CEO, Indian Hotels Company Limited said, “The launch of Vivanta by Taj- Hotels & Resorts heralds a new chapter in the 110 year history of the Taj. With the launch of Vivanta by Taj – Begumpet, Hyderabad, we have expanded our footprint in Andhra Pradesh.”

Peter Henley, President and Chief Executive Officer, ONYX Hospitality Group informed, “ONYX Hospitality Group looks at India from two strategic points; firstly, as a source market and secondly, as a market for potential development.”

Talking about the importance of India as a source market for the brand, he added, “India is one of the key source markets for ONYX’s cornerstone brand – Amari. The Amari Hotels and Resorts in Bangkok, Phuket, Pattaya and Koh Samui continues to be hugely popular for business

and leisure travellers from India to Thailand and those working for this brand have a strong on-going relationship with the Indian travel trade.”

Betting big on the business hub of Ludhiana, Henley said, “Ludhiana is a thriving city and we look

forward to working with Apna Punjab Resorts to make Amari Ludhiana the city’s leading hotel both in terms of its accommodation as well as its extensive catering facilities.”

Regarding the USP of the brand-new development and the first upscale all-suite hotel in the Punjab, Henley revealed, “In terms of area, Amari Ludhiana will be the largest hotel in Punjab.”

Located at Canal Road, a major bypass road in the city, the hotel will feature 127 guestrooms, a courtyard lobby, reception and lounge located within a grand atrium space of approximately 1,400 square metre. It will offer banquetting facilities for up to 2,000 people. Other facilities will include a large multi-cuisine, all-day dining restaurant, a spa, gymnasium and retail spaces.

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Prose & Literature propel tourism figures in Jaipur The Pink City is now promoting Literature Tourism in a big way. Footfalls have grown year on year and this year, over 1,22,000 visitors jostled nose to nose on each of the 5 days of the Jaipur Literature Festival compared to almost 60,000 visitors who attended the event last year. The 2011 fest had a media valuation of over ` 63 crore. finds out more.

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here is another attraction that is drawing tourists to Jaipur – books. As an alternative to Heritage Tourism that Jaipur has been famous for, the city of forts and palaces is now promoting Literature Tourism in a big way through the recently concluded Jaipur Literature Festival, held from January 20-24, 2012.

Footfalls have grown year on year and this year over 1,22,000 visitors jostled nose to nose on each of the five days of the festival compared to almost 60,000 visitors who attended the event last year. Also, this year the entry was bar coded and hence, the exact number of visitors could be verified.

With hundreds of visitors participating in this event and making a beeline for the state capital, the hoteliers can’t stop smiling.

Diggi Palace is the old family mansion turned heritage property in Jaipur which is also the fest venue since its inception. Says Jyotika Kumari Diggi, Owner and Director of the Diggi Palace, “Around 65 per cent of our rooms were booked by the production team this time. For the remaining ones, we received bookings very early for the event. Thus, the property witnessed 100 per cent occupancy during the event.” Each year, more space in the Diggi Palace has to be taken over to accommodate the ever-expanding activities and sessions of the fest.

According to the owner, the property till last year had 47 odd rooms. This time, the rooms have been increased to 70. “One of the primary reasons to increase the number of rooms was the interest in the event,” she adds.

Reminisces Ashwani Nayar, General Manager, Le Meridien Jaipur, “The five-

Regarding the growth of domestic tourist during the festival, Pankaj Birla, General Manager, Marriott Jaipur, comments, “The inflow of domestic tourists was much higher than the international tourists. The ratio of domestic tourists to international tourists was about 5:1 in our hotel during the event.”

Jyotika Kumari Diggi

Ashwani Nayar

Pankaj Birla

Owner and Director Diggi Palace

General Manager Le Meridien Jaipur

General Manager Marriott Jaipur

day event has positively driven hotel occupancies not only in Jaipur but also the visiting international guests booked pre and post tours to other destinations as well.”

According to the GM, occupancies during this period of the year in Jaipur are usually high. Rather than a volume change in occupancy, Jaipur witnessed a change in the guest mix that was

marked by celebrities, authors and literature enthusiasts from many countries.

Reiterating the huge potential of growing purchasing power and opportunity in the domestic market that was also reflected during the fest, Nayar said, “Apart from celebrities, premium and high net worth Indian guests travelled to Jaipur for the festival and booked premium accommoda-

tion at the hotels. Most interestingly, our twenty private villas and ten luxury suites were running near full occupancy during this period, which is indeed a positive sign.”

“Le Meridien Jaipur was running near full occupancies during the Literature Festival, also witnessing a new pattern of shorter lead time for the domestic segment reservations,” he adds.

Talking about the occupancy at the property, Birla reveals, “The literature festival group generated about 250 room nights over the spread of six days. We did witness a strong transient inflow and an average occupancy of 80 per cent during the Jaipur Literature Festival week.” The hotel also witnessed an increase in ARRs during the event. “ARR and occupancy of a hotel are directly proportional. Since the occupancy of the hotel went up, the ARR also augmented. The hotel registered a surge of 15 per cent in the ARRs.”

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COVER STORY

Explore newer source markets Contd. from page 1

Speaking on an optimistic note, Gautam Kaul, COO, Yatra Exotic Routes says that he firmly believes inbound tourist inflow should only look up. He says, “We have great expectations from the forthcoming union budget.

With an increase in mid segment hotels and availability of decent accommodation for budget travellers, 2012 could be a year of possibilities. If we look at travel marts and exhibitions that take place outside the Country, the India contingent is increasing in size each year and the footfalls in these exhibitions at the India pavilion itself reassure that Incredible India is in demand and my gut feel is that 2012 will be a good year as early reports suggest so,” says Kaul.

Pronab Sarkar, Managing Director, Swagatam Tours hints at better outlook for 2012 if backed by liberal government policies. “The target to increase India’s tourism share to 1 per cent and 12 million arrivals in 12th Five Year Plan is approximately 20 per cent growth in arrivals per annum. This is tough but

Amit Prasad

Pronab Sarkar

Bharat Atree

Chief Operating Officer Go India Journey

Managing Director Swagatam Tours

Managing Director Caper Travel

achievable to a certain extent provided there are some liberal announcements made for the growth of inbound tourism,” Sarkar says. He is also hopeful of seeing an increase in business traveller because of Government’s initiatives to boost investment opportunities in India.

Searching for greener pastures At the moment, eggs are in a few baskets only. If Europe or America faces situations like economic crisis or a 9/11, India can very well forget the dream of increasing share of global traffic to 1 per cent by 2012. India will have to look at newer source

markets like Russia, Malaysia, Canada, Central & South American countries, Sri Lanka, Saudi Arabia and Turkey among others to diversify its source markets while at the same time not losing its sight on the Europe.

There is a need to undertake innovative and extraordinary destination marketing campaign to boost India’s tourism profile in Europe.

A restrained Amit Prasad, Chief Operating Officer, Go India Journey, said, “Our outlook for 2012 is cautious because of the economic slowdown in Europe.

Due to this, focus will have to shift to other markets which

have been more resilient in this period.” In sync with Prasad, Deva says, “Like us, other DMCs would also have tried to offset this market (Europe) by concentrating on other markets. We will sustain our current levels of marketing to ensure that we maintain our visibility in key source markets. We are also investing in developing markets like Russia and Latin America which look extremely positive in 2012.”

Need of the hour Deva says ‘experience travel’ has fast caught on, especially since travellers today are seeking a deeper meaning to what they do

and how they explore the many facets of the world.

“It is important for the Government to weave experiential travel into their Incredible India Campaign so as to highlight the potential India has, as a destination for this way of travel, which could become one of the key deciding factors for a traveller to visit India,” he adds.

Sita has a Destination Knowledge Centre in place, the first of its kind in the industry that offers unique and memorable experiences that are at par with appreciating a great work of art. This centre with extensive local know-how and expertise designs a selection of programmes that helps travellers explore the great outdoors, local customs, stimulating art and much more in conjunction with some local destination specialists who have been living in the destination for a long time.

The Company is intent on making those moments happen for travellers.

Prasad highlights that a much needed push is required for the tourism infrastructure. There is also the need to identify and develop new source markets and tourism products. He says, “Firstly, MOT’s ambitious target will, to a great extend,

depend upon the infrastructure development and our efforts to expand the seasons.

Also, it is important to identify a second line up of countries which we should focus upon in developing tourism to India. These could be Far East, CIS block, etc. Also exploring new segments of business like Weddings, LGBT markets, soft adventure, self-drive, etc. will help boost tourism in the country.”

Kaul says that he would like to analyse India's tourism profile in terms of two broad aspects 1) tourist/traveller profile and 2) product profile.

At present, India is a great recipient of high-end tourists as far as its products are concerned. He adds,

“Infrastructure development and constant promotions will certainly translate into more business. Tourism, being a multi sectoral activity, we need to have a common cell for tourism projects in each sector for the faster and easier execution.”

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AGENTS

New premises for Air Mauritius 200% growth in Asia With the inauguration of its office in Mumbai (Andheri East), Air Mauritius now has a new space . The key travel trade partners were invited for exclusive cocktails at the new office space and had an opportunity to meet Donald E Payen, Executive Vice President Commercial & Communications, Air Mauritius along with the entire team from sales, admin and marketing department of the airline.

Trafalgar, the world’s leading guided vacation company, offering quality & value itineraries, recorded a 2-fold increase in 2012 forward bookings in Asia, compared to 2011.

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rafalgar saw a markable increase in forward bookings for Asia. Talking about the trends of the Indian travellers, Nicholas Lim, Regional Director, Trafalgar Tours, commented, “Many Indian travellers are planning their vacation tours to exotic destinations in 2012 to Eastern Europe, Russia and South America along with travellers from Singapore, Philippines, Malaysia.

The availability of new products, increase in travel agent distribution network and weakening in the US and Euro currencies has acted as key drivers to boost the sales.”

The Company is substantially more popular for its top European destinations, including France, Greece, Italy, Spain and Switzerland – buoyed by the feeble Euro dollar.

Many Indian travellers are planning their vacation tours to exotic destinations in 2012 to Eastern Europe, Russia and South America along with travellers from Singapore, the Philippines, Malaysia.

Nicholas Lim, Regional Director, Trafalgar Tours Travel experts predict a rise in the travellers to Europe, taking advantage of the savings in foreign exchange.

Indian travellers, like most of the Asians, have already explored the Asia Pacific destinations and are looking for new experiences and destinations. “Indians and most Asians have focussed their attention to evergreen destinations such as Europe and North America and less trodden destinations such as Argentina, Brazil,

Morocco and informed Lim.

Russia,”

Trafalgar guided holidays are led by experienced travel directors engaging travellers with interesting conversation and sound knowledge of the destination and local guides sharing the local cultural insight.

Travellers can pick from a range of adventure and educational activities that adds value to their holiday experience.

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FLASHBACK “I am on top of the world right now. I am a proud Indian and strongly feel that there is no challenge too big for Indians.We have to work together as a team and do everything we can to put our Tricolour on top of the world.”

Padmashree Ajeet Bajaj touches new heights

‘Conquering’ Fear!

Ajeet Bajaj contributes articles to regularly. He has been felicitated with the Padma Shree on January 26, 2012. Bajaj skied from the west to the east coast of Greenland, covering a distance of 550 km over 20 days with temperatures touching -23o C. Goodbye Bhagirathi

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y relationship with the Bhagirathi River began in 1984. In 1986, work on the controversial Tehri dam was already in full swing.

As the years rolled by, I rafted and kayaked the Bhagirathi over fifty times. It was rather distressing to see the progress of the Tehri dam and a second dam coming up at Koteshwar, between Tehri and Devprayag. ‘My favourite river’ the Bhagirathi has been destroyed by two dams and the Bhagirathi gorge with its fantastic rapids, flora and fauna fell prey to the growing demands of ‘Civilisation’. A scenic wilderness river has been lost for ever.

Read complete article : TravTalk April 2nd 2011

BY A J E E T B A JA J

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“Green Up’ your act

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n July 2009, I got an opportunity to go on a sea kayaking expedition to Greenland. While Kayaking we noticed The Greenland ice cap has melted drastically in the past decade, evidence of global warming. Before the expedition, we were told by the Inuit that the number of mosquitoes had increased over the past few years due to a rise in temperature in the arctic regions. We were almost eaten alive! We also learned that Inuits hunt seals when the sea freezes in winter.

For the past seven winters, the sea has not frozen! Humankind is now realising that our planet is indeed in peril. I do hope that we can 'green up' our act and give our future generations a fighting chance.

Read complete article : TravTalk February 1st 2011

Save the tiger

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he Tiger is our national animal and heritage. It is our duty to act as trustees to this heritage and preserve it. Let us move beyond just pledges, start a movement and take the king of the jungle away from the throes of extinction.

Listed below are some steps we can take: • Educate – our guests and the local community • Adhere to the rules of the jungle. It ensures that we merge with the habitat we are in • Awareness: Spread the word • Sensitise our own staff and teams • Make our peers aware of the Global Sustainable Tourism Criteria standards existing in the industry and try to encourage compliance.

Read complete article : TravTalk January 1st 2011

y 17 year old daughter Deeya and I were embarking upon an expedition to ski across Greenland.

Briefly, our plan was to fly to Copenhagen on May 11th and on to Kangerlussuaq in Greenland on May 12th.

After a couple of days in Kangerlussuaq, we would take a chopper to the icecap on the west coast of Greenland, North of the Arctic Circle. For the next month or so we would ski approx 600-650 kms across Greenland to the East Coast finishing at Isortok.

Three weeks back as I flew over Greenland enroute to Canada, I saw the Greenland icecap from the plane, it looked cold, forbidding and plain scary. I must admit that I questioned my decision to do this expedition. While I have thrown myself into challenging situations in my entire life, the thought of my precious daughter having to handle

this inhospitable terrain for a month was, I must say, frightening. However, our pursuit of this adventure was to conquer fear and highlight four aspects: 1. We strongly feel that there is no challenge too big for us Indians. We feel blessed to have been born as Indians.

2. Promote a spirit of adventure amongst the youth in our country.

3. Greenland is considered ground zero for the climate crisis. If the entire Greenland icecap melts and it is melting at a very rapid pace. It will lead to a rise in ocean levels by 23 feet. We would like to reinforce this issue.

4. We would also like to call attention to the plight of the girl child in our country and help raise funds for a girl’s orphanage near Haridwar.

Read complete article : TravTalk May 2nd 2011

NTO

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‘Amazing Thailand Grand Sale 2012’ for Indians Targetting a growth of 13 per cent, the NTO expects to attract almost 12 lakh arrivals from India compared to the 9.1 lakh arrivals last year.

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o lure the India outbound market, Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has launched the Amazing Thailand Grand Sale 2012.

Through the event, Thailand will promote destinations such as Bangkok, Pattaya, Koh Samui and Phuket in India.

The Amazing Thailand Grand Sale 2012 will also encourage travel to the unexplored destinations such as Chiang Rai, Kanchanaburi, Chiang Mai and Hua Hin. The 2012 Grand Sale that will be held from June 15 - August 15 will feature Thailand’s largest collection of travel packages, family entertainment, competitions and bargains across retail, dining, leisure and hospitality as well as health, beauty and medical treatments.

Chattan Kunjara Na Ayudhya Immediate Former Director TAT New Delhi Office

Through this event, we are promoting shopping tourism in Thailand. Indians love shopping and hence, we are targetting the Indian market in a big way Talking about the Grand Sale, Immediate Former Director, TAT, New Delhi Office, Chattan Kunjara Na Ayudhya, whose term ended on January 31, 2012 said, “Through this event, we are promoting shopping tourism in Thailand. Indians love shopping and hence, we are targetting the Indian market in a big way.”

“For those considering their visit to Thailand this year, the summer is definitely the time to visit the country.

The 2012 ‘Grand Sale’ has something for everyone, from family entertainment to

attractive leisure and hospitality packages, spa experiences and of course some of the most amazing retail bargains to be discovered,” he added.

TAT also foresees to conduct familiarisation trips for the media some time before the sale and even take

travel trade and wedding planners to Thailand.

In lieu of the same, TAT also looks forward to certify 1,500 travel agents and tour operators for its online training programme, ‘Amazing Thailand Champion Agent’.

Explaining the training programme, Ayudhya said, “TAT Mumbai unveiled the launch of its online travel trade training and certification programme in which 1,500 tour operators and agents would be trained on a pan India basis over 12

calendar months January 2012.”

from

Targetting a growth of 13 per cent, the NTO expects to attract almost 12 lakh arrivals from India compared to the 9.1 lakh arrivals from India last year. “Arrivals from the Indian market are expected to grow this year due to its strong economy.

The increased household income will also spur a rise in tourist spending overseas,” he said.

Why Thailand?

Indians love shopping and hence, TAT is targetting the Indian market in a big way The summer is definitely the time to visit the country TAT Mumbai unveiled the launch of its online travel trade training

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NEWS

Cloud computing offers higher scalability to the travel industry C

loud helps enterprises to have a dynamically scalable abstracted computing infrastructure that is available on-demand and a pay-per-use basis. This model not only saves the IT teams from investing heavily on infrastructure, but also shields them from the intricacies involved in infrastructure setup and management. Presently, apart from providing the on-demand IT infrastructure, cloud service providers such as Amazon typically provide interfaces for other related IT management services such as requesting, provisioning the offered infrastructure using the Infrastructure-as-aService model.

If we try to understand the applicability of Cloud computing to the travel industry, availability Searching or Shopping will probably be the best fit; it is by and large the biggest resource eater in a legacy environment. On the onset it may seem to be a complex and upheaval task to decouple this area of functionality from the traditional CRS functionality, because it creates some sort of operational challenges like latency.

However, these challenges can be handled through a cloud-based solution which offers higher scalability and the usage of modern architecture patterns.

Apart from availability searching or shopping, mobile applications/services (which is going to see unprecedented growth in demand over the next decade) is another area where a cloud strategy can bring a competitive advantage for travel enterprises.

The key challenges that travel enterprises are facing today regarding mobile and social media channels are manifold: • With the advancements of smart phone platforms such as iPhone, iPad, Android, Symbian and Blackberry, travel enterprises need to invest in supporting multiple platforms and handsets.

• Mobility being a new technology is difficult to predict in terms of short term as well as long term demand. Due to this, travel enterprises are facing a challenge in scoping the required infrastruc-

ture for supporting mobility channel.

• Today there is no proven business model to directly measure increase in revenue and profit against the costs incurred in mobility & social media investments.

Cloud based flexible and on-demand infrastructure enables a travel enterprise to offer mobility and social media channels without incurring any fixed cost.

Using cloud a travel enterprise can start in a small way and grow into this evolving market with a lower risk and financial strain. Solution for the ‘long tail’.

As we know the travel industry comprises of many small to mid-sized companies & agents, a large majority of which are very entrepreneurial and niche in terms of the products and services they offer.

Companies of these ‘long

this service and get a competitive advantage.

At the other end of the horizon, start-ups are finding it easier to build and offer products like CRSs, Tour Operating Systems, Distribution Systems or basic inventory systems in a SaaS model, since this on-demand model is a strong value proposition and brings a competitive edge to their offerings. Having a cloud environment at more economic rates brings a tremendous advantage to such companies because it helps them to manage their cash flow better.

From the above discussion we can conclude that travel enterprise can achieve higher profits by leveraging the power of cloud computing: • A cloud-based solution reduces the total cost of IT ownership for the travel enterprises & agents, and offers performance, reliability, security and flexible scalability advantages • Travel enterprises are able to increase their customer base due to higher availability, low congestion and new sales channels

Somenath Nag Head - Vertical Marketing Blue Star Infotech Limited

tail’ have little or limited IT knowledge or support and rely on numerous third parties for IT. These companies always find it to be challenging to balance their IT spending between IT infrastructure and Sales & marketing. The huge IT infrastructure required for running any scalable IT operation is a major cost for these companies and becomes a barrier to their business growth. Even today many small time travel enterprises do not even have an IT system, because they cannot afford to set-up an IT operation in-house. Economics of Cloud environment can change this basic premise and make it both affordable and beneficial for all parties, so that travel enterprises of any size can use

• Competitive advantage to the small and mid-size enterprises and agents in the form of lower fixed-cost • Improved operational efficiency due to low marginal cost • Ability to manage risks better by reducing fixed investment on any new initiative (Somenath Nag heads vertical marketing function of Blue Star Infotech Limited. In this position, he is responsible for marketing strategy, branding, demand generation, partnership management, and analyst relationship management for all service lines of Blue Star Infotech.

Somenath has extensive experience in working with leading HighTech, Travel & Hospitality and Communication companies.

Somenath has special interest in areas like strategic management, e-Marketing, Business Intelligence, Cloud Computing and Enterprise Mobility.)

Legacy Hotels – Indians can bring along their own chefs Legacy Hotels and Resorts aims to attract more Indian travellers towards its properties in South Africa with new-fangled, out of the box marketing strategies.

A N I TA J A I N

option to bring along his own chef. Kuzuko lodge - One of our esteemed properties also offers unique activities like star gazing.”

L

egacy hotels and Resorts having a portfolio of around 18 properties in South Africa are targetting both the family and business segment of the Indian travellers. It has properties from mid-scale class to the high-end elite luxury class, all with free complementary Wi-Fi facilities.

Commenting on the marketing strategies to capture the Indian travellers, Paddy Brearley, Managing Director, Legacy Hotels said, “In the previous year, around 4,000 Indians visited the property. To implant the properties in the minds of the Indian travellers, we have planned several out-of-the box strategies with our representative in India - Think Strawberries. We have planned to hoist several trade shows, roadshows and

Paddy Brearley Managing Director Legacy Hotels

The Property also has unique, exquisite and renowned Art hotels such as DaVinci hotels and suites, Michelangelo towers and Raphael penthouse suites.

Tshukudu - Place of the Rhino is the high-end and exclusive property with six rooms.

sales training, etc. to promote our properties.”

QUICK READ

Further with regards to its properties in South Africa, Brearley added, “Each one of our properties is individualist and iconic. The MICE group or even a solo leisure traveller will be given special rates if they stay at two of our property. There are Indian cuisines with Jain facilities available on the properties.

Also, the traveller has an

Sri Lanka received a total of 1.5 lakh Indian visitors for the year 2011, accounting 20% of the total tourist traffic.

SKÅL Cultural gathering at the Islamic Centre

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ASSOCIATIONS

TAAI Convention, Istanbul, Turkey

B2B mart to promote bilateral tourism 50 Turkish suppliers will showcase their products to Indian buyers during the convention. And, 30 Turkish travel companies will be present scouting for Indian tourism products.

S H AYA N M A L L I C K

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reparations are on for the 60th TAAI Diamond Jubilee Annual Convention in full swing. The association is confident of making the convention this year a grand success to celebrate the Diamond Jubilee Convention.

Speaking to recently, Iqbal Mulla, President, TAAI said that the convention this year will be unlike any of its previous editions.

He informed that more than 400 delegates have already registered and that the response so far has been very good. “We are expecting about 1,000 to 1,100 delegates from India apart from another 250 from Europe and America. We have negotiated

Iqbal Mulla President TAAI

attractive rates from airlines like Turkish, Emirates, Air Arabia and Qatar who are offering return air ticket for around INR 26,000. We expect to close the registration by February 20,” said a confident Mulla.

“No travel association in India is 60 years old! The event will be celebrated in a grand style.

Also, TAAI Diamond Jubilee Convention coincides with 60 th anniversary of Indo-Turkish cultural treaty.

And therefore, there is an equal excitement from the Turkish side to make this event a great success. The event this year will be a ‘Double Bonanza’,” he added further.

“India and Turkey have shared centuries old historical ties. The TAAI Convention in Istanbul will be the much required catalyst that will further strengthen the process of engagement through tourism.

The Convention this year has a strong reciprocal format to achieve growth and development of bilateral tourism ties, increase people-to-people exchange and economic growth for both the countries,” said Mulla, while informing that the convention will also have a travel mart on the sideline.

“One of the key reasons that tilted our decision of choosing Turkey as Convention destination in its

favour was the fact that the destination is hugely untapped, both for Indian outbound travellers as well as as a source market for Indian tourism stakeholders. There will be some 50 Turkish tourism suppliers including tour operators and hotels among others who will be present at the B2B travel mart to showcase their products to the TAAI delegates.

Similarly, a 30-member strong delegation of Turkish buyers will also come to shop for potential Indian tourism products,” he informed.

Mulla gave special mention to the initiative extended

by Turkish Culture & Tourism Ministry, Turkish India Tourism Council (TITC) and Turkish Airlines.

“The Gala Dinner will be hosted by Turkish Tourism and is expected to be at the Ciragan Palace Kempinski Istanbul, one of the landmark hotel of Turkey located on the European shores of Bosphorous in Istanbul. Also they have helped us find one of the best single hotel convention properties where the delegates do not have to shuttle between their hotel and convention centre. We are also getting enormous assistance with the travel mart that will be organised on the sidelines of the convention,” said Mulla.

Turkey has also recently announced the waiver of the Visa fee for the TAAI delegates visiting Turkey for the convention.

Special ‘Zulu treat’ for TAFI Anand re-elected HAI President The KwaZulu-Natal Province will undertake promotional Vivek Nair and Deepa Misra Harris are the two new faces in the HAI Executive Committee. activities in India to further boost the numbers.

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fter the announcement

by TAFI to hold its 2012 Convention in Durban, the KwaZulu-Natal Province of South Africa in September this year and is ready to build hype, create awareness and encourage travel trade to attend the Annual Convention in its own ways and means.

Positive to attract over 1,000 Indian delegates for the Annual Convention, the KwaZulu-Natal province is going to undertake few aggressive promotional activities in India to further boost the numbers. To start with, in April, the province is going to hold a massive event in Mumbai and New Delhi calling upon the travel trade and highlighting the attractions, benefits and attractive deals for the event. Meanwhile, the TAFI team is going to make a

visit to the province to finalise the deals (inclusive and exclusive) with the ground handlers and suppliers for the convention. It is

Ajay Prakash President TAFI

TAFI Annual Convention 2012 to held in KwaZuluNatal Province of South Africa in September this year

We are quite excited about our Annual Convention 2012 as it is in the rainbow country and that too, in Durban

The KwaZulu-Natal Province is going to hold events in Mumbai & New Delhi for the travel trade highlighting the attractions, benefits and attractive deals for the event

also going to offer ‘Early Bird’ incentives, discounts and prizes for early registrations to further enhance the visitor numbers.

The Zulu Treat

Conveying the pleasure of hosting TAFI, James Seymour, CEO, Durban KwaZulu-Natal Convention Bureau said, “We are investing heavily on this convention as we know its going to benefit both the Indian delegates as well as KwaZulu-Natal and South African suppliers. It’s the best way to showcase our destination and its unique product offerings to the experts who give their expert advice to Indian travellers for selecting holidaying and business destinations. TAFI has assured us that close to 1,000 delegates will be attending the Convention, however, considering the size of the Association, we are sure that through creating a buzz in the market, we might attract more members of the travel trade.”

Adding further, Ajay Prakash, President, TAFI said, “We are quite excited about our 2012 Convention as it is in the rainbow country and that too, in Durban. With extensive support from the South African tourism board, KwaZulu-Natal province, South African Airlines and all the local suppliers, I’m sure we will bring the best and irresistible deals and offers for our members. Once all the deals are finalised, we will start working on the convention theme and other key elements of the event.”

T T B U R E AU

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akul Anand, Executive Director, ITC, was unanimously re-elected as President, Hotel Association of India (HAI) for a second consecutive two-year term (20122013) at the 15th Annual General Meeting of the Association held on February 1, 2012 in New Delhi. The AGM also reconstituted the HAI Executive Committee for a 2-year term (2012 – 2013).

Executive Committee Nakul Anand President

Jyotsna Suri Member

Raymond N Bickson Vice President

Deepa Misra Harris Member

Vivek Nair Honorary Secretary

Rupak Gupta Member

Vikram Oberoi Honorary Treasurer

JK Mohanty Member

PRS Oberoi Member

Suresh Kumar Member

Priya Paul Member

Suresh Talera Member

Deepa Misra Harris, Sr. Vice President (S&M), IHCL; Rupak Gupta, Executive Director, UP Hotels; R K Puri, Secretary General, HAI; Vivek Nair, Vice Chairman & Managing Director, The Leela Group; Nakul Anand, Executive Director, ITC Ltd; Priya Paul, Chairperson, Apeejay Surrendra Park Hotels; Suresh Kumar, Chief Operating Officer, Fortune Park Hotels; Suresh Talera, Chairman & Managing Director, Talera Group of Hotels

Deepa Misra Harris, Senior Vice President, Sales & Marketing, Indian Hotels Company, makes her debut on HAI’s Executive Committee as Corporate Member.

Earlier, addressing the AGM, Anand reiterated that he would continue to serve the Association to the best of his abilities to ensure that HAI retains its leader-

ship position in the hospitality industry.

He added that special mention must be made of the contributions made by the HAI towards evolving the Tourism Ministry’s Approach Paper on Tourism for the 12th Five-Year Plan which has received the approval of Government at the highest levels. “As your President, I

had the privilege of being nominated as a member of the Working Group set up by the Ministry of Tourism and the Steering Group constituted by the Planning Commission, entrusted with the task of developing strategies for harnessing the full potential of Indian tourism during the 12th Five Year Plan period”.

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FAMILY ALBUM

MOT roadshows in 3 cities of Middle East

RIYADH

JEDDAH

DAMMAM

The Ministry of Tourism recently organised roadshows covering three cities of Saudi Arabia, namely Dammam, Riyadh and Jeddah to promote tourism, especially medical wellness and luxury travel to India.

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FAMILY ALBUM

DDP Sunday Garden Lunch It was a perfect sunny Delhi winter morning when the travel fraternity came together for a Garden Lunch on the invitation of Durga Das Publications. Friends and supporters from the Ministry of Tourism, travel agencies, airlines, hotels and IT companies were all there with their spouses in a relaxed Sunday mood. There were smiles aplenty and a lot of conversation

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Rejoicing moments & creating memories between friends who meet often and those who were meeting after a long gap. Live ghazals gave a very congenial atmosphere to the beautiful garden that needed minimal decoration – the guests in their gorgeous attire created the colour for the day!

With drinks flowing and delectable food, the party went on well into the evening.

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FAMILY ALBUM

Laughter, Cheer and Smiles among Friends

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Taking out time for Fun and Frolic

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EXHIBITIONS

Gujarat is the partner state

GITB 2012: 242 buyers confirm their presence so far Over 116 private sector suppliers along with a number of State Tourism Departments have so far confirmed participation and the number is expected to further swell for the 5th Great India Travel Bazaar.

DMCs, travel agents, tour operators, hotels, tourist transporters, airlines, cruise liners and others from across India have so far confirmed participation for the event.

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he fifth Great Indian Travel Bazaar (GITB), scheduled from April 15-17 has so far received confirmation from 242 foreign buyers from across 50 countries.

This number is expected to further grow as the organisers are targetting 250 buyers for the event this year. GITB 2012 is expected to be a bigger show than last year. The last edition had hosted about 230 foreign buyers and more than 7,000 meetings!

Domestic air passenger growth slowed to 8% in Dec ’11 India’s domestic air passenger growth slowed to 8 per cent in December 2011 to less than half the pace of growth experienced in 2011 and down from the 17% - 22% growth rates seen between June 2011 and October 2011. While passenger numbers in India’s domestic market have seen growth now for 31 consecutive months, the result for December 2011 marks the end of 16 consecutive months of double-digit growth. This single digit growth in the peak month of December 2011 (to 5.63 million passengers) is a sign that slowing economic growth is affecting air travel and reflects impending capacity caution by some of the nation’s largest players.

India’s domestic passenger numbers increased 16.6 per cent to 60.7 million passengers in 2011, averaging out at 5.1 million passengers per month, and up 74 per cent from 2006 levels. The largest stand-alone carrier was IndiGo with a 19.5 per cent market share, with IndiGo also the fastest growing carrier in 2011.

QUICK READ Air Mauritius will increase flights on its Mumbai route bringing the total number of flights to four per week.

The additional services will be added from April this year.

Rahul Chakravarty Additional Director FICCI

Also over 116 private sector players, including

The event will also have various State Tourism Departments showcase their tourism products to the foreign buyers. Besides, Gujarat will be present as the partner state this year. Madhya Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh have also confirmed their participation at GITB

2012. Around 180 exhibitors, including private and government sectors had participated in the last edition.

According to Rahul Chakravarty, Additional Director, FICCI, foreign buyers have been handpicked by GITB’s Foreign Tour Operators Committee (FTOC) led by Usha Sharma, Principal Secretary, Department of

Tourism, Government of Rajasthan and Dr. Jyotsna Suri, Chairperson, FICCI Tourism Committee and CMD, The Lalit Suri Hospitality Group.

An initiative of FICCI (Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry) and supported

by Government of Rajasthan and Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, GITB offers a platform to the global travel buyers in exploring the diverse Indian tourism products and

Fast Facts 242 foreign buyers confirm. The number is expected to reach 250 The number in the private exhibitors’ category has so far reached 116 Gujarat to be the partner state at GITB 2012 Madhya Pradesh, Karnataka, Uttarakhand and Andhra Pradesh to exhibit at GITB 2012

increase their product portfolio. The event takes place at B M Birla Convention Centre in Jaipur, India.

India hopes big from ITB Berlin 2012 With expectations to tide over the global slowdown at an International Trade Show, Indian participants have high hopes from International Tourism Bourse (ITB) Berlin this year. In return, ITB promises a strong convention programme and has introduced an exclusive buyers circle.

D E V I KA J E E T

I

TB Berlin, scheduled to be held from March 7-11,

Speaking on the future opportunities, Swapnil Naik, Director Tourism, Government of Goa, said,

Denmark, Finland, Iceland, and Sweden.”

With more than 1,70,000 visitors including 1,08,000 trade visitors and over 10,000 exhibitors from 180 countries, ITB Berlin is a leading B2B platform of all that the tourism industry offers.

Despite its size, ITB Berlin is clearly structured.

The exhibition halls are divided into geographic aspects as well as into current market segments.

Swapnil Naik

Arjun Sharma

Director Tourism Government of Goa

Managing Director Le Passage to India

This year, we look forward to meeting representatives from new markets like the Nordic countries 2012, is attracting a large majority of the Indian travel fraternity.

The number of anticipated Indian participants has increased to over 145 and India will be occupying additional display areas. This year, the size of the Indian pavilion has grown to 2,300 square metre. Independently, six Indian states are participating; Gujarat for the first time.

Our expectations are to see an increase in the demand for the niche products “The state will definitely be participating in ITB Berlin.

The experience last year was excellent and we have had a very favorable response. B2B interface is strong and we get the opportunity to meet agents for our target markets, Eastern Europe, Scandinavian countries and central Europe.

This year, we look forward to meeting representatives from new potential markets especially the Nordic countries –

“We hope, this year, we manage to do sizeable business as compared to the past as we are finding a slowdown in travel to India. Our expectations are to have more appointments from new companies who are interested to promote India and also see an increase in the demand for the niche products,” says Arjun Sharma, Managing Director, Le Passage to India.

The LaLiT Group of Hotels is excited about using this platform to showcase their new products and hotels at Jaipur, Kolkata and Chandigarh. “The sheer size, magnitude and fantastic infrastructure sets ITB apart,” says Samil Malhotra, Vice President – Sales & Marketing, The LaLiT. Promoting India at an international platform is not just the prerogative of private players. Along with State Tourism Boards, the Ministry of Tourism (MOT), Government of India, also facilitates tourism promotion

Samil Malhotra

Deepika Unni

Vice President – Sales & Marketing, The LaLiT

Indian Representative ITB Berlin

The sheer size, magnitude and fantastic infrastructure set ITB apart activities to bring out the best in what the country has to offer. “We find that MOT is pro-active and innovative in their approach and are constantly working on finding new ways to enhance business for India. We are also working on developing new tourism circuits and introducing new niche products for India,” adds Sharma. ITB provides the platform to understand the competition and also to tap potential markets.

With expectations riding high on promising prospects and business opportunities

The industry will be able to benefit from the convention on the latest trends and models in global tourism from ITB Berlin this year, “ITB has launched the ITB Buyers Circle, an intense networking sphere for top buyers from all over the world. Along with this, ITB has a very strong convention programme every year. The Indian Travel industry will be able to benefit tremendously from the up-to-date and visionary convention programme on the latest trends and innovative business models in the global tourism,” says Deepika Unni, Indian Representative, ITB Berlin.

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Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) New Delhi Runjuan Tongrut is the new Director of Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) New Delhi Office. She brings to India a wealth of experience in tourism marketing planning, is a Graduate from Thammasat University, Bangkok in Master of Arts in Social Administration and has been working with TAT for more than 20 years. Ever since then she has been an integral part of TAT. Tongrut has also attended Tourism Marketing Plan course, WES Economy Research & Consultancy Institute, Brugge, Belgium in 1996.

Hilton & DoubleTree by Hilton New Delhi-Noida-Mayur Vihar New Delhi Scott Thomson has been appointed as the General Manager of Hilton New Delhi-NoidaMayur Vihar and DoubleTree by Hilton New Delhi-Noida-Mayur Vihar, India. He brings with him an extensive experience with a career that spans more than two decades in the hospitality industry and includes positions in New Zealand, Australia, Hong Kong and India. He was previously the pre-opening General Manager of Langham Place, Koregaon Park, Pune, the company’s first property in India.

The Zuri Whitefield Bengaluru Guido Farina has joined The Zuri Whitefield, Bangalore as its new General Manager. Italian-born and a passionate lover of travelling and photography, Farina has worked in 5 continents with over 56 different nationalities in city, beach, mountain, lake, desert, rain forest and island hotels and resorts. A consummate experience of over twenty years in hospitality makes him the perfect leader to guide the hotel to its committed goals of providing world-class hospitality services of personalised and unique luxury.

Ibis & Novotel Bengaluru Techpark Bengaluru

The Grand New Delhi New Delhi

Blue Moon Travels Noida

Puneet Dhawan has been appointed as the General Manager

Shrikant S Wakharkar has joined as the new General

Delegate Bengaluru and General Manager for Ibis & Novotel Bengaluru Techpark. With almost a decade of experience across Accor hotels in various roles, Dhawan is acutely aware of the challenges of managing properties in varied market situations and brings with him a wealth of experience in the hospitality business. He had left India in 1991 for higher education in Switzerland and after 2 years of education in Swiss Hotel College, he moved to University of Massachusetts in US to complete a degree in hospitality management.

Manager at The Grand New Delhi. Prior to this, he was the General Manager of InterContinental The Lalit Goa Resort, Goa. In his new role, Wakharkar will be responsible for overseeing and implementing high operational standards of the property, situated in Vasant Kunj.

He has more than 20 years of experience in the hospitality industry. He has also worked with Taj Samudra Hotel, Colombo, Sri Lanka, the Taj President, Mumbai and Taj Mahal Palace & Towers, Mumbai.

Kunal Sawhny joins Blue Moon Travels as Vice President Business Development. His primary focus has been Corporate Sales and has developed strong business relationships with companies from India & abroad.

He has worked at Amadeus/Bird Group in the domains of Business Development & Corporate Sales. His strong network & communication skills, has successfully helped various organisations to follow & develop a good CRM practice towards their clients.

Le Meridien Coimbatore

Jaipur Marriott Jaipur

Amit Mitra is appointed as the new Director - Business

Vazid Ali Shaikh joins as the Assistant Director of Food & Beverage for Jaipur Marriott. In his role, he will spearhead and manage all food and beverage operations, including marketing, planning, menu structure and service. Shaikh has 9 years of experience and holds a Diploma in Hotel Administration and Food Technology from Sophiya Polytechnic College, Mumbai and brings knowledgeable expertise of the industry. Before joining Jaipur Marriott, he was associated with Taj Lands End as an Assistant Food & Beverage Manager.

Development, Sales & Marketing at Le Meridien, Coimbatore.

He is a graduate in Hotel and Catering Management and holds professional qualifications in Public Relations and is a seasoned Sales and Marketing professional with over 15 years of experience in the hospitality industry. His portfolio includes handling integrated sales and marketing of the property. Prior to this, Mitra worked as the Director of Sales and Marketing, India at The Ascott Limited where he successfully launched two properties.

Talking People is a special dedicated corner, created as a sounding board for who’s who of the Indian and International travel industry. With Talking People, it is our endeavour to bring you face-to-face with people.

Contributed by: Deepa Sethi & Anita Jain

Christine Mukherjee Director Austrian National Tourist Office

Originally from Salzburg, Christine Mukherjee, Director, Austrian National Tourist Office has lived in India for over 16 years now. She works tirelessly 7 days a week to promote Austria in India. The only break she takes is to go for a one-hour walk or mountain biking in the Bio Diversity Park in Gurgaon.

“I am a 100 per cent sports person. I run six kilometres every day and then workout with a personal trainer,” says Mukherjee, “I cycle whenever I get the chance.” Her favourite destination for a holiday in India is the Sunderbans, where she has already been twice recently. She also loves spending time in Goa, “Not the typical Goa though, I like the quiet northern part, where I have a house and spend a lot of time.”

Pune Marriott Hotel & Convention Centre Pune Miellé Batliwala is the new Director of Human Resources at the Pune Marriott Hotel & Convention Centre. In this capacity, she is responsible for the overall implementation of Human Resource initiatives at the Hotel and streamlining strategies and actions with the overall human resource framework of Marriott International. Batliwala has been with Marriott in India for 9 years and has gained hands-on experience at different levels of the company hierarchy. Over the years, she has earned a number of accolades to her name.

Ajay Prakash is the President of TAFI since August 2010 for a two-year term.

He spends a lot of time working for his members and as a consequence, for the entire industry. When Prakash has time for himself and is not busy negotiating, he likes to drive to his farm, two hours away from Mumbai on the Pune highway near the town of Pali. This area is known for its green hills, waterfalls and mild climate. “I love to relax, unwind and watch the plants and the water flow by,” says Prakash.

He spends a lot of free time reading, both fiction and non-fiction books. And he surprises us with his passion for kites, “I have a collection of more than 200 kites from all over the world, varying from small to very large, some of them measuring up to 3-4 metre across,” he concludes.

Hanneli Slabber Country Head South African Tourism Board

Ajay Praksh President TAFI

Always striving for value and not just success, Hanneli Slabber, Country Head, South African Tourism Board, is a tall beautiful Sagittarian, born in Cape Town, who is drawn towards travel and philosophy. She is a proud mother of two coolest kids in the world, who are wickedly funny, sensitive and independent. Being a coffee drinker, she also loves local Mumbai cuisine and spicy fish from Kerala with a glass full bodied South African red wine. India has been an enriching experience for her due to friendly people, colours, sounds, cuisine and the price of books! When asked about the funniest incident in life, she says, “Well, my staff can tell you the most horrendously funny stories about me trying out my Hindi!”

Postal Reg. No.: DL(ND)-11/6044/2012-13-14; WPP No.: U(C)-178/2012-14 for posting on 1st-2nd and 15th-16th of the same month at New Delhi P.S.O., RNI No.: 53492/91 Date of Publication: 14-02-2012

HIGHLIGHT

‘India at the heart of Tourism growth’ In an interview with , Peter Long, CEO, TUI Travel spoke at length to Rupali Narasimhan on various issues ranging from the current global trends in travel to his plans for TUI in India.

I

n the present condition of economic austerity and uncertainty, travelling patterns have undergone significant changes. Recession may have altered consumer spending patterns yet the demand for leisure travel remains strong. “In today’s world, value for money is a key driver. We, at TUI, actively seek to anticipate what our customers might need and deliver the right product at the right time.

Coupled with value, today’s traveller needs an experiential holiday which is as individual and unique as the traveller himself.

Holidays are perceived as personal fulfilment and enrichment.”

TUI Travel was created in 2007 with a merger of various TUI group’s tour operation businesses and First Choice Holidays. The new company thus born embodies its motto, making travel experiences special. Each of the four sub-divisions of TUI Travel viz. Mainstream, Specialists & Activity, Emerging Markets and Accommodations & Destinations carry the spirit of TUI with equal fervour.

Emphasising that TUI’s strength lies in delivering products suitable to every market, Long observes that

Specifically talking about the India market, Long said that affordability of leisure travel in India has

Peter Long

Arjun Sharma

CEO TUI

Managing Director LPTI

Sun and beach are not primary drivers for the Indian markets. It has to be a family or a group

The Indian market has a huge scope for growth for a new player. It is a value driven market and there is an opportunity for more players

TUI Travel TUI Travel was created in 2007 with a merger of various TUI group’s tour operation businesses and First Choice Holidays It is one of the largest leisure travel companies of the world and boasts of more than 250 products.

Represented in 31 source markets, it handles approximately 30 million customers.

the BRIC (Brazil, Russia, India, and China) economies are going to exhibit the highest growth rate and will also manifest a long-term growth.

“China, Russia, Ukraine and India are at the heart of tourism growth. Organised tourism has just begun in Asia and we at TUI have the knowhow, the expertise and the operational systems in place to take advantage of this trend,” he further added.

long been established. With a huge middle class, the entry point in this case is low and TUI has a huge range of products to support this demand. “Indian travelling patterns are very similar to the Chinese leisure travel trend. Sun and beach are not primary drivers for the Indian markets. It has to be a family or a group which needs to be escorted and has special dietary needs,” added Long.

Adding to TUI CEO’s point of view, Arjun Sharma, Managing Director, LPTI said.

“TUI India is concentrating on providing an experience and not competing merely on prices. It is our endeavour to grow products at various price levels. There is immense experience in our parent company and we will use this vast knowledge to strategise our growth in the Indian markets.”

When asked if the Indian outbound market was big enough to allow a new entrant, Sharma said, “The Indian market has a huge scope for growth for a new player. India is a value driven market and there is definitely an opportunity for more players. We will add to our market share if we create and deliver unique products at the right value.”

As one of the largest travel companies in the world, TUI believes that to be a true brand leader in travel comes with a serious responsibility of protecting our fragile eco-system and managing social expectations. “TUI Travel’s ultimate aim is to make travel experiences special. We try to deliver with minimum risk to the environment. We also work towards preserving local cultures and providing economic benefits to the host communities,” added Long.

The group in the year 2013 will take delivery of Dreamliners for their charters, which will cut the fuel consumption by 20 per cent. TUI Travel makes a lot of effort in protecting scarce resources such as water and energy, invest in societies by improving living conditions of local communities, promoting education and vociferously working to stop exploitation of children.