Asian Traveller February 2011 by Asian Traveller

in this issue VOL.4

NO. 5

FEBRUARY 2011

Berlin all set for the travel show

The German capital city has decked up to play host to the leading travel and tourism trade show, ITB - Internationale Tourismus Börse Berlin (International Tourism Exchange), better known as ITB Berlin. This year the 5-day event will be held from March 9 to 13 at Messe Berlin.

8 UNWTO partners with UNEP to boost sustainable tourism UNWTO, a key partner of the recently established Global Partnership for Sustainable Tourism, will work closely with tourism stakeholders worldwide to firmly position tourism along a more sustainable path. The recently launched Global Partnership for Sustainable Tourism

(GPST), made up of five UN organisations, governments, multilateral bodies, the private sector and non-governmental organisations, offers an important tool for enhancing sustainability within the tourism sector.

10 More cooperation sought amongst South Asian countries to promote tourism India’s Minister for Tourism Subodh Kant Sahay has called for more cooperation amongst the South Asian countries to promote tourism in the region. It is the opportune time for all tourism organisations and stake holders in the region to get together and address issues that are common and relevant for the growth of tourism in the region, he said.

12 Government to promote golf tourism

P 26-27

in India to attract high end visitors India’s Ministry of Tourism is trying to promote golf as a niche tourism product and also position India, as a preferred golfing destination in the region. It is part of the Ministry’s efforts to make India a year-round destination. It is the government’s priority to develop multiple tourism products to attract all segments of tourists round the year, said India’s Minister of Culture Kumari Selja.

20 PATA Grand and Gold awards announced The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) has announced the winners of the 2011 PATA Gold Awards. These awards have long been supported and sponsored by the Macau Government Tourist Office. This year, the awards recognise the achievements of 21 separate

P 34-35

organisations and individuals.

ASIAN TRAVELLER

FEBRUARY 2011

Develop quality tourism infrastructure: Subodh Kant Sahay

22 ATF concludes on positive note 24 Tourism Australia launches new destination campaign in India

30 SW German Tourist Board promotes luxury self-drive packages in India P 50

42 Etihad, Hertz partnership to create “air to road” luxury travel

64 Kerala’s moment at PATA Awards 65 Macau to get re-branded 70 KTDC mulls hotels out side the state

Woman of the Month

Ten Questions

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P 64 ASIAN TRAVELLER

FEBRUARY 2011

SUMAN NANAIAH

SAEID HEIDARI

P 14

P 16

As I Travel Photo: Theaterplatz square, Dresden Cour tesy: Hans Peter Merten, German National Tourism Board

EDITOR’S NOTE

ourism industry the world over treats the overseas traveller and the domestic traveller differently. More often than not the domes tic traveller gets a step-motherly treatment. But if one looks at the role the domestic traveller plays in keeping the tourism sector afloat during crisis times and the contribution he makes towards the tourism revenue we have to admit that he deserves better treatment. It is high time that the potential of domestic tourism need to be recognised by both the government and private stakeholders of the industry. According to Marcio Favilla L de Paula, Executive Director, UNWTO (United Nations World Tourism Organisation), countries need to concentrate on domestic tourism to make the industry sustainable since domestic tourism generates more revenue than inbound tourism revenues across all markets and destinations. In India where tourism plays a significant role in the well-being of the economy, 82 per cent of the total tourism revenue is generated by domestic tourists, and hardly 18 per cent comes from overseas travellers. Still the domestic traveller and the domestic travel sector seldom got the attention or importance they deserve. But it is heartening to note that the attitude of the stake holders – both the government and the private – is changing for the better. And the domestic crowd has started travelling far and wide, and more frequently which augurs well for the sector. A little more encouragement and effort from the part of those concerned could make the situation better – for both the parties. ‘Tap the domestic market’ should be the catchphrase for the sector in the coming days.

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ASIAN TRAVELLER

FEBRUARY 2011

ITB

ITB Berlin 2011

Berlin all set for the travel show Despite its size, ITB Berlin is clearly structured. ITB Berlin enjoys worldwide media recognition and offers comprehensive support for all marketing questions exhibitors might have. This years highlights will be ITB Future Day (which portrays the future in the fields of economy, society and travel patterns), ITB Hospitality Day (experts discuss the challenges in the hotel industry at the ITB he German capital city all other visitors ITB Berlin is Hospitality Day), ITB Ecohas decked up to play a wonderful possibility to Mobility Day (experts discuss host to the leading discover the whole world environmentally friendly travel and tourism trade within a few hours. strategies for the future and show, ITB - Internationale As a driving force in the their relevance for the tourism Tourismus Börse Berlin travel industry, ITB Berlin industry) ITB CSR Day (which (International Tourism gives important impulses to a provides suggestions for the Exchange), better known as continuously growing market. implementation of CSR in the ITB Berlin. This year the 5-day Exhibitor sales of about 6 travel industry) and ITB event will be held from March billion Euro and an exhibitor Marketing and Distribution 9 to 13 at Messe Berlin. satisfaction rate of 92 per cent Day (which will discuss the Launched in 1966, with nine are evidence enough that latest strategies and practical exhibitors, ITB Berlin now supply and demand meet at examples of marketing boasts of more than 180,000 the right place. tourism). visitors every year and over 10,000 exhibitors from 180 countries. Over the years it has become the leading B2BPlatform for n March 8, Berlin’s Governing Mayor Klaus Wowereit, Federal trade visitors Minister of Economics Rainer Brüderle, and – an excellent Adam Giersz, Minister of Sport and Tourism of the opportunity Republic of Poland, will open ITB Berlin. Lech to meet Walesa will be the Polish guest of honour at the business avant-garde programme of show events and a partners and gala reception will be there at the opening of the to do Lech Walesa world’s largest travel trade show. business. For

Lech Walesa guest of honour at the opening gala

ASIAN TRAVELLER

FEBRUARY 2011

WORLD VIEW

UNWTO partners with UNEP to boost sustainable tourism development

NWTO, a key partner of the recently established Global Partnership for Sustainable Tourism, will work closely with tourism stakeholders worldwide to firmly position tourism along a more sustainable path. The recently launched Global Partnership for Sustainable Tourism (GPST), made up of five UN organisations, governments, multilateral bodies, the private sector and nongovernmental organisations, offers an important tool for enhancing sustainability

within the tourism sector. “The tourism sector has been increasingly recognised as a key engine for economic growth, especially in developing and least developed countries. It is not only responsible for a Luigi Cabrini significant Director for Sustainable Development of share of Tourism at UNWTO world GDP and employment, but is also an important source of foreign investment reaching as much

as 30 per cent of the world service’s exports. The number of international tourist arrivals is expected to reach 1.6 billion by 2020,” said Luigi Cabrini, Director for Sustainable Development of Tourism at UNWTO. The GPST aims to ‘transform tourism worldwide’, through uniting the existing sustainable tourism initiatives around the world so that they can transfer experience and best practices and put them into action. The Partnership will share knowledge, collect successful

Develop qualit y tourism infrastructure: Subodh Kant Sahay

nion Minister for Tourism Subodh Kant Sahay has called for developing quality tourism infrastructure at identified tourist destinations and circuits through convergence of resources of various union ministries and State Government. He was speaking at the inaugural function of a national workshop on promotion of wellness tourism in Delhi. Underling the importance of safe and dignified tourism he said initiatives in this regards will be taken to ensure that Indian Tourism follows international standards of safe tourism practices, applicable for both tourists and local residents. Speaking on the occasion the Minister of State for Tourism Sultan Ahmed said it is essential for destinations to create unique travel experiences on an emotional, physi-

cal, intellectual, and even spiritual level. Subodh Kant Sahay also released the guidelines for wellness centres on the occasion. The wellness centres accredited as per these guidelines will give level of confidence to the tourist and provide for effective regulation of the functioning of the wellness centres. The workshop on promo-

tion was organized with the active participation of Department of AYUSH, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare and National Accreditation Board for Hospitals and Healthcare Services (NABH) to define the areas of development in the wellness industry and strategize with the help of the industry for defining the road map for the government for next few years.

initiatives and replicate them to meet global needs. The new partnership was established at its first annual General Meeting in Costa Rica, hosted by the Costa Rican Ministry of Tourism and supported by the French and Norwegian Governments, together with UNWTO and the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP).

PATA appoints Calderwood as interim CEO

he Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) has

appointed William Calderwood to be its interim CEO. Calderwood will take over from the present CEO, Greg Duffell when the latter’s term of notice is up end February. Calderwood’s previous assignments include stint as Head of International Operations for the Australian Tourism Commission. He has had an extensive career in tourism spanning over 30-years running

William Calderwood

major organisations and global networks, across the government, private and association sectors and has an association with PATA over 15years. He is currently Managing Director of The Ayre Group Consulting. Minister of State for Tourism Sultan Ahmed speaks at the workshop.

ASIAN TRAVELLER

FEBRUARY 2011

INCREDIBLE INDIA

India gets new Tourism Minister A mong the major changes in the first reshuffle of the Indian Ministry by Prime Minister, Manmohan Singh, Kumari Selja has been divested of the Tourism portfolio and Subodh Kant Sahay has been appointed as the new Union Minister of Tourism. Sahay was Minister for Food Processing Industries. Sultan Ahmed will remain the Minister of State for Tourism.

Hunar Se Rozgar exceeds target

he number of beneficia ries under the Hunar Se Rozgar programme of the Ministry of Tourism has already exceeded the target set for the current financial year. The target for the current financial year was 5500 persons to be implemented by 35 institute of hotel management, seven food craft institutes, two 5star hotels and the state governments of U.P., Orissa,

Kerala, M.P. and Punjab. However, by December 2010, 5672 persons were already trained and another 712 were undergoing training under this programme. 5610 persons were trained under the programme as against the target of 5000 during the year 2009-10. The MoT launched this special programme in 2009-10 to bridge the gap of skilled manpower in hospitality sector.

Subodh Kant Sahay

More cooperation sought amongst South Asian countries to promote tourism

ndia’s Minister for Tour ism Subodh Kant Sahay has called for more cooperation amongst the South Asian countries to promote tourism in the region. It is the opportune time for all tourism organisations and stake holders in the region to get together and address issues that are common and relevant for the growth of tourism in the region, he said. The Minister was delivering the inaugural speech at the 18th South Asia Travel and Tour

Expo (SATTE) 2011 in New Delhi. Emphasising the need for secured tourism the Minister said that more trained and skilled tourism professionals were required for the fast developing tourism industry. India could offer its training facilities to the people from south Asian countries. “We are monitoring and analyzing the global tourism trends to maintain our competitiveness. We are increasing our collaboration and improving information

Januar y 2011 witnesses more arrivals, earnings

The Union Minister for Tourism, Subodh Kant Sahay lighting the lamp to inaugurate the SATTE Travel and Tourism Exchange, in New Delhi

exchange mechanism with the industry, other countries, international organizations and educational institutions. Our endeavour remains to exchange data and information on the latest trends and strategies with other countries at regular intervals”, he added.

The linkage and cooperation with the industry is going to be the key for the future of tourism growth in the region. The tourism minister expressed the hope that the conference will come out with a concrete road map for development of tourism in south Asia.

ccording to the monthly estimates of Indian Tourism Ministry Foreign Tourist Arrivals (FTAs) and Foreign Exchange Earnings (FEE) from tourism has registered a significant growth during January 2011, compared to the corresponding period in 2010. FTAs during the Month of January 2011 was 5.38 lakh, a growth of 9.7 per cent over January 2010. FEE during the month of January 2011 were Rs.5777 crore as compared to Rs. 5593 crore in January 2010, a growth of 3.3 per cent. Subodh Kant Sahay releasing the calendar at the inauguration of the SATTE

ASIAN TRAVELLER

FEBRUARY 2011

INCREDIBLE INDIA

Government to promote golf tourism in India to attract high end visitors

ndia’s Ministry of Tourism is trying to promote golf as a niche tourism product and also position India, as a preferred golfing destination in the region. It is part of the Ministry’s efforts to make India a year-round destination. It is the government’s priority to develop multiple tourism products to attract all segments of tourists round the year, said India’s Minister of Culture Kumari Selja. She was talking as chief guest at a workshop to promote Golf Tourism in New Delhi. “This will enable the government to break the October to March Syndrome that affects India Tourism particularly in the case of foreign tourist arrivals” she said. The initiative of the Ministry would not only showcase its beautiful golf courses but also the diverse tourism attractions. India has several golf

courses of international standard. Further, golf events held in India also attract domestic and international tourists. With international tourists expected to grow in the next few years, it is important that India has the right product to meet the need of the visitors. According to golf experts 52 per cent of travelling golfers are likely to take two or more golfing holidays in a year and they spend on an average, 33 per cent more on their holidays as compared to regular holiday makers. It is stated that 70-78 per cent golfers would be prepared to visit a new golfing destination and this community represents the wealthiest 50 per cent of all golfers. Ministry of Tourism aims to create a comprehensive and coordinated framework for promoting golf tourism in

The Union Minister for Culture, Kumari Selja inaugurates the workshop on promotion of golf tourism, in New Delhi

India, capitalizing on the existing work that is being carried out, and building upon the strength of India’s position as the fastest growing free market economy. Based on the recommendations of the workshop, the

Ethnic tourism should get more attention

ubodh Kant Sahay, Minister for Tourism, Government of India has called for more stress on ethnic tourism in the country. He was speaking at the inauguration of the 25th Surajkund Crafts Mela 2011 at Surajkund near Delhi. Fairs like this project the rich cultural heritage of the country in a proper perspective, he said. Andhra Pradesh is the theme state in the Mela this year. Participation of Uzbekistan, Russia, Sri Lanka, Syria and Thailand makes it more colorful and diverse this time. The minister also released a special postage cover and a postal stamp brought out by Department of Post on the occasion.

Ministry of tourism would look at a mechanism of supporting international and domestic golf events, professional events, golf shows, training for caddies, production of publicity materials etc.

Visa on arrival scheme ex tended to four more countries

G The Union Minister for Tourism, Subodh Kant Sahay; Chief Minister of Haryana, Bhupinder Singh Hooda and the Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, N. Kiran Kumar Reddy at the Surajkund Crafts Mela

Subodh Kant Sahay releasing the commemorative stamp on Surajkund Crafts Mela.Haryana Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda and Andhra Pradesh the Chief Minister N. Kiran Kumar Reddy are also seen

overnment of India has extended the visa on arrival scheme for the tourists from Cambodia, Vietnam, Philippines and Laos from January this year. This scheme was launched last year for the tourists from Finland, Japan, Luxembourg, New Zealand and Singapore as a measure to attract more foreign tourists to India. The number of visas issued under this scheme, during January 2011 for nationals of the eight out of nine countries were: New Zealand (242), Finland (156), Japan (155), Singapore (125), Philippines (98), Luxembourg (6), Cambodia (4), and Vietnam (4). The maximum number of visas on arrival were issued at Delhi airport (406), followed by Mumbai (214), Chennai (137) and Kolkata (33).

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FEBRUARY 2011

Q&A It was her childhood desire to be associated with peoples from all walks of life that led Suman Nanaiah to choose a career in hospitality industry. And she never regretted her decision. How did you become interested in Travel & Tourism business? Tell us about the beginning of your career. I was born a people’s person. Since I was a child, I’ve had a desire to be involved in activities which would give me access to

Suman Nanaiah General Manager Royal Orchid Metropole Mysore

people from all walks of life. In 1996, when I shifted from Coorg to Mysore, the journey of my career started with Quality Inn Southern Star, (now The Regalis), in the Front Office. From the day I joined, there has been no looking back. Travel, tourism and the hospitality industry has become an integral part of my life. What is your current role in your organization?

My current role as General Manager of The Royal Orchid Metropole, Mysore, involves overseeing the business interest of the hotel entrusted to me. It involves planning and organizing; delegating responsibilities, forecasting future trends, budgetting, relationship management with both the guests as well as fellow workers. And most important, leading my team to achieve success in each of its endeavors. What are your immediate and long-term plans? My immediate and long term plans are integrated with that of the company. The company’s growth will add to my growth within the ambit of my professional abilities. As a hospitality industry professional what is your ambition? Where would you like to see yourself ten years from now? As hospitality professional it gives me great joy to interact with people. I would like to see myself in any position that keeps me in touch with people on a regular basis and people at large associated with the industry. Who or what has been the greatest influence in your professional life? Upendra Singh Jamwal for being my mentor, a good teacher and one who has helped me to travel on the right path; Sanjay Wadhawan for giving me the opportunity to grow and face challenges; Chander Baljee the Chairman of Royal Orchid Group of Hotels, who, when I met him for the first time, asked me to dream big and work on it and Sehar, Avantika and Ms. Sapna who made me realize my capability and motivating

me - they are my critics, and my dear friends whom I look up to. As woman, what were the challenges you had to face in your professional life? What is your advice to young girls who enter the sector? I have had my share of problems. Over the years I have learned to handle situations that could have become not only challenges, but obstacles, in my profession. My advice to young girls is not to fraternize too much and just be focused on their job, the recognition they seek will automatically follow their dedication to their work. What is the secret of your success? One of my earlier bosses once told me, “There is always scope to better your best, do not sit back on your laurels, and carry out each activity with pride so that no one can fault you at work”. I believe in myself, my values and my goal. I work hard, with complete focus, to achieve them. What is your proudest moment (till date) in your job? Each minute I spend at my work place. Please tell us about your family. My family consists of my parents, my sister and her lovely family who have always stood by me in everything that I have chosen to do, and my wonderful son, who truly is my ‘Rock of Gibraltar’. What are your hobbies? Going to places which I have not yet seen, gardening, interior decoration, listening to music and rescuing wounded birds and animals.

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FEBRUARY 2011

Q&A Saeid Heidari has worked in different parts of the world in different capacities, before coming to India. He talks about his vision and plans. so many years. After working for so long in different parts of the world what prompted you to take up an assignment in India? How do you like the place? What are your first impressions? It was a ‘dream come true’ for me to come to India. Being from Iran, I found a lot of similarities between two cultures. I was raised in family where everyone was a Hindi movie fan. Sholay and Sangam were our favourites. And I always loved music and colours. I am very much impressed with the smile on the face of every one here. My first visit to India was a vacation in Goa - which I think is definitely a part of paradise on Earth. What plans do you have for the property? We are currently working on enhancing our product and service and taking meaningful steps to increase the value for money. Lighting, landscaping and food & beverages are the main focal points and also ensuring that we reverse the aging process in property with meaningful investments. How important is a hotel in developing a destination? I started doing a part-time What should a hotel be doing in this regard? job in a hotel to finance my The hotels are very studies. I was impressed by important as you can drive the diversity and level of preferences and utilise your work people were doing in hotels. Their work philosophy international connections to drive demand and divert was very much in line with business to the destination. In what I believed to be right: integrity, respect, hard work, addition, with good services fair treatment, recognition and and standards, especially growth opportunity. One day international brands like Marriott, can offer an as I was cleaning the Human advertising platform for the Resource Department office. The Director HR happened to destination they are operating at. Hotels are the essential be there chatted with me part of the infrastructure to briefly about my studies and build a destination and on top work and later I got an offer it to create the intent to return. from the hotel to start as manager. And here I am after It simply creates an You have more than three decades experience in the hospitality industry. Could you tell us about your early days? How did you come to join the hospitality sector?

Saeid Heidari General Manager Renaissance Mumbai Convention Centre Hotel & Marriott Executive Apartments Mumbai, India

atmosphere and provide services to make the international traveller feel safe and at home. Providing services at highest level gives your destination and edge over its competitors. What is the proudest moment in your professional life? Could you share some of the unforgettable moments in your professional life? I was very proud as we have received the ‘hotel of the year’ award in company with our hotel in Dubai. This is the second hotel where I have the honour of receiving such an award. However the proudest moment was when we received the Food & Beverage Excellence Award 2008 from Marriott as it was my third one (after in Germany as F&B Manager and in Dubai as Director-Operations). Where would you like to see yourself, say, 10 years from now? I personally want to see my self excel in my job and make an impact at the places I work in. I would like to see myself in a position to pass on my experiences to others and give back to people and share with them. I would like financial independence and head a charity organisation and work for socially-disadvantaged and under-privileged children. I worked very hard in my life to reach where I am now. But I had a lot of luck too and there were many people who supported me. I think it would be great to do something like that. What are your views on the future of the hospitality industry, in general? With the growing number of population and wealth in the world, the demand for hospitality industry will grow rapidly and enormously.

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FEBRUARY 2011

COLUMN

V DURAIKKANNAN

fter some twenty years, I happened to see the Brindavan Gardens of the KRS Dam in Mysore again last week. I could not that easily prefix the adjective ‘beautiful’ to the Gardens now though those days it was. The park wears a weary look with untended plants with weeds abounding, much plastic garbage lying around, and hedges not properly done here and there sticking out as eyesores. I still remember the touristic slogan of the erstwhile Mysore state which is now known as Karnataka – ‘Mysore is not an eyesore’! The dam was known as Kannambadi Dam to the locals because that was the name of the village near Mysore on which the dam was built in 1910, exactly hundred years ago. It was christened Krishna Raja Sagara (KRS) after the King of Mysore, Krishna Raja Wadiyar IV who was the 24th ruler in his dynasty. His seventh Prime Minister Sir Mirza Ismail (1926-41) was the one who created this wonderful garden on the lines of the famed Shalimar Gardens of Kashmir. I also felt another thing that the dam had become smaller which cannot be possible. It is just that I have become bigger and lost the eyes of a younger man and

A street in Born

Brindavan Gardens, Mysore

the dam looks relatively smaller. The same thing happened when I was going back to my alma mater Madras Christian College after some twenty five years. The student of those days was the chief guest of a graduation ceremony this time and the lofty building of the college with the Statue of Miller in the centre of the sprawling campus looked Thoreau smaller now. Another weird instance of the theory of relativity! The gardens can definitely be kept in better repair. For sure, the gardens are getting a good load of visitors every day and the annual income runs into nearly fifty millions of rupees. More than the governmental machineries’ intervention, we the public also owe one to the upkeep of the gardens. If only every visitor picks up one piece of trash and sees to it is thrown into the dustbin (by the way, the dustbins themselves are very dusty and half of them are already broken and lying toppled!), the whole garden will be nattier than what it is now. A friend of mine was telling me after his visit to Bonn in East Germany that there each householder is responsible for the cleanliness of that part of the road which

his house faces. Even the sleet he has to clear during the winter. When everyone does one’s bit, it is a wholesale cleansing process. I have also heard of the toilet system in Japan. When somebody uses the public toilet in the roadsides of Japan, after the use, the toilet door which gets locked from within will not open again until and unless he or she flushes the toilet clean. That is another enforced way of public etiquette and discipline! Participative ecology management is the easiest solution for our malaise. But unfortunately, it may not happen because of the one or two mean and truant elements in the system as can be seen from the story below, an apocryphal story from the life of the great Emperor Akbar. Akbar had brought in a great number of pristinely glorious swans to India to be reared at his Dalai Lama XIV palace. The swans would live only on pure milk and the legend still lives on in the literary simile in Tamil ‘segregating the milk from the water like a swan’. In fact, the word ‘swan’ is from Tamil. In an earlier column here in Asian Traveller we have talked about the Lisp Theory of English words –

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FEBRUARY 2011

ACCOLADES

PATA Grand and Gold awards announced

he Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) has announced the winners of the 2011 PATA Gold Awards. These awards have long been supported and sponsored by the Macau Government Tourist Office. This year, the awards recognise the achievements of 21 separate organisations and individuals. The year 2011 sees 26

PATA Grand and Gold Awards presented, with multiple awards going to Kerala Tourism as well as the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, and Tourism Australia. The awards ceremony will take place on April 11, 2011 at China World Hotel during the PATA 60th Anniversary and Conference, Beijing, China. PATA Grand Awards are presented to outstanding entries in the four principal categories: marketing, education & training, environment, and heritage.

Grand Awards Education and Training: Yim kids and acts on HIV Thailand, Accor Asia Pacific, Singapore Environment: Kumarakom, Kerala Tourism, India. Heritage : The story of the legendary Galle Face Hotel, Galle Face Hotel, Sri Lanka. Marketing: There is nothing like Australia, Tourism Australia.

Gold Awards Marketing - Primary Government Destination: Amazing Thailand social networking, Tourism Authority of Thailand. Marketing - Secondary Government Destination: Your moment is waiting, Kerala Tourism, India. Marketing – Carrier: THAI 50th anniversary project, Thai Airways International Public Co., Ltd, Thailand. Marketing – Hospitality: Taj Forever Campaign, Taj Hotels, Resorts and Palaces, India Marketing – Industry: Kuoni Travel Group, Kuoni Travel (India) Pvt. Ltd, India. Ecotourism Project: Whale Watch Kaikoura, New Zealand. Corporate Environmental Programme: CGH Earth green book, CGH Earth, India. Environmental Education Programme: El Nido Resorts be G.R.E.E.N. campaign, Ten Knots Development Corporation/El Nido Resorts, Philippines. Heritage: In Praise of Borobudur & Prambanan World Culture

This year, the Grand Awards go to Accor Asia Pacific, Singapore, for education & training; Kerala Tourism, India, for environment; Galle Face Hotel, Sri Lanka, for heritage, and Tourism Australia in the marketing category. The winning entries this year have established another benchmark of excellence, innovation and advancement in the responsible development of travel and tourism.

Heritage, PT. Taman Wisata Candi Borobudur, Indonesia. Culture: World Thai martial arts and Wai Khru Muay Thai ceremony, Tourism Authority of Thailand. Education and Training: Corporate social responsibility and market access partnership, Thai Ecotourism and Adventure Travel Association, Thailand. Marketing Media - Consumer Travel Brochure: Maharajas express luxury train in India, Royale Indian Rail Tours Ltd, India. Marketing Media - Travel Advertisement Broadcast Media: Your moment is waiting, Kerala Tourism, India. Marketing Media - Travel Advertisement Print Media: Incredible India domestic creative- adventure down under, Ministry of Tourism, Government of India. Marketing Media - Travel Poster: Essence, Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau. Marketing Media - Promotional Travel Video: India is awesome, Ministry of Tourism, Government of India. Marketing Media – Public Relations: Your moment is waiting, Kerala Tourism, India.

India shines at PATA awards

Marketing Media - Web site: There is nothing like Australia, Tourism

Destination Article: It’s a Mentawai Paddle, by Eddy Patricelli and

ndia bagged 10 awards including one grand award and nine gold awards and topped the chart at this year’s PATA awards. Kumarakom

bagged the Grand award in the Environment category. The gold awards came in the marketing (secondary government destination, hospitality and industry), marketing media (- consumer travel brochure, travel advertisement-broadcast media, travel advertisement-print media, promotional travel video and public relations) and corporate

Australia. Brown W Cannon III Islands Magazine, USA. Industry Business Article: TTGmice - Rebuilding the Team TTG Asia Media Pte Ltd, November 2010, Singapore. Travel Photograph: Dive Master, by Eugene Tan, Fah Thai, INK, Singapore. Travel Guidebook: Hong Kong living culture guide, HK Tourism Board.

environmental programme. Also see page 64

ASIAN TRAVELLER

FEBRUARY 2011

ASIA PACIFIC

ATF concludes on positive note

he 30th edition of the

from our government and related

for the Strategic Plan was that “by

Phnom Penh. The Opening

ASEAN Tourism Forum,

ministries. A big part of this

2015, ASEAN will provide an

Ceremony was an extravaganza

(ATF 2011) was held in

achievement however resulted

increasing number of visitors to

featuring some 500 local and

Phnom Penh, Cambodia recently

from the involvement and support

the region with authentic and

foreign performers in traditional

with a large participation from

of private companies as well.”

diverse products, enhanced

and contemporary performances

projects.The

connectivity, a safe and secure

along with an exuberant fireworks

Strategic

environment, increased quality of

display.

Plan has

services, while at the same time

been

ensuring an increased quality of

hosted by Indonesia. ATF 2012 is

adopted to

life and opportunities for residents

themed “ASEAN Tourism for

run in

through responsible and

Global Community of Nations”,

tandem with

sustainable tourism development

which will be staged on January

the Master

by working effectively with a wide

9th – 15th, 2012 in Manado,

Plan on

range of stakeholders.

Indonesia. The Indonesia night,

1,600 heads of National Tourist

Among the major

Organisations (NTOs), Tourism

developments ASEAN Strategic

Ministers, Travel Suppliers from

Plan 2011-2015 was signed by the

across ASEAN, International

regional ministers of tourism at

Buyers, Media and other tourism

Phnom Penh. Considered as a

professionals from around the

landmark in the region’s

world. The event with the theme

international tourism growth, it is

‘ASEAN, A World of Wonders and

built on the strong foundations

Diversity’ gathered tourism

provided by the Roadmap for

officials from ten ASEAN member

Integration of Tourism Sector

countries and three ASEAN

which expired last year after

partner countries - Japan, the

reportedly accomplishing all of its

ASEAN

Apart from the Business and

The 2012 edition of ATF will be

hosted by the Ministry of Culture

Connectivity,

formal meetings of the ATF Travex

and Tourism, Indonesia, during

itself signed

sessions, pre-event networking

the 2011 ASEAN Tourism Forum

Republic of Korea and People’s

off in October last year at the

opportunities were open to all

(ATF) at Sofitel Phnom Penh at

Republic of China.

ASEAN Summit in Ha Noi.

buyers and hosted media

Phokeethra, was a remarkable

delegates, through city tours of

cultural experience.

Occupying an exhibition area

The ministers said their vision

of 8,430 sqm, the ATF Travex – the 3-day travel trade-only exhibition and business meetings platform – featured 518 booths from 434 exhibiting companies from the 10 ASEAN countries. The show has managed to attract a total of 442 international buyers. 148 media delegates from across 32 countries also attended.

Asian medical tourism set for tremendous growth

ccording to our research

countries, such as India, Malaysia,

covered sections, such as

report “Asian Medical

Singapore, and Thailand have

analysis of various medical

Tourism Analysis (2008-

been pouring investments into

procedures, tourism destination,

International buyers with a keen

2012)”, Asian medical tourism

their healthcare infrastructure to

accreditations that elaborates

interest to buy destinations,

industry has been growing at a

meet the rising demand for

cost of various surgeries and

products and services were ready

robust pace for the past few

quality-assured medical care

procedures in Asian countries,

to do business and source at this

years and has become a focal

through first-class facilities and

with respect to other countries in

annual leisure travel trade event,

point of attraction for several

highly trained medical specialists,

the world. The section provides

showcasing the largest contingent

developing countries. Moreover,

including tertiary hospital care.

an analysis of treatments, which

of ASEAN sellers, from small to

the Asian medical tourism

The report has also elaborated

have cost differentials between

large suppliers.

industry revenue is projected to

current market scenario and key

developed and emerging market.

grow at a CAGR of around 17 per

developments in these countries.

Moreover, sections like ‘market

Cambodian Ministry of Tourism

cent during 2010-2012, on the

Moreover, emerging market of spa

drivers’ and ‘market trends’

and Chairman of the ATF 2011

back of some key factors

and wellness sector in each Asian

define those factors and avenues

Host Committee said during the

discussed in our report.

country has been covered,

that have been boosting the

depicting new avenues for growth

market and providing a further

in industry. The report has

momentum.

Dr. Thong Khon, Minister of the

closing ceremony of ATF 2011 that: “This event was a great

The ongoing analysis identified that, the Asian

success through the full support

ASIAN TRAVELLER

FEBRUARY 2011

MARKETING

Tourism Australia launches new destination campaign in India

in visitor arrivals from India over the years. The new age Indian traveller is keen to explore fresh holiday ideas, immerse themselves in novel experiences and enjoy active holidays - for all of which, Australia provides the perfect landscape. With the launch of this campaign, Tourism Australia intends to capitalize on the evolving outbound travel segment and encourage more Aditya Hitkari & Divya Palat Indians to spend their holiday in promise of a sustained increase. Australia has always Australia. The campaign has been been an aspirational created on the theme of destination for Indians and has seen a remarkable growth personal narratives of select ourism Australia has created a new destination campaign to make Australia the destination of choice for leisure holidays amongst the Indian travellers. Outbound travel from India has shown an impressive growth in recent times and holds

personalities who nurture a bond with Australia through their visits or stay. It presents a unique opportunity by capturing the spirit of Australia as seen through the eyes of Peter Varghese Indian Australia's High personalities, Commissioner to India through their heartfelt rendition of their cherished experiences in Australia. The launch phase of the campaign will have noted theater personalities - Aditya Hitkari, Divya Palat and Vikrant Kapoor, Chef and Partner, Zaaffran, Sydney share their own anecdotes on Australia. Commenting on the new campaign, Nishant Kashikar, Country Manager – India, Tourism Australia said, “The campaign has been developed to convey the essence of what Australia has to offer to

“We had been to Australia for our holiday and from the moment we set foot in this continent, we just fell in love and have kept going back ever since. My most vivid memory of Australia is jumping off a plane on our little adventure outing and the unforgettable exhilaration it brought us. From the nature, the wildlife, to the clear blue waters Divya Palat

there is romance in every facet of Australia. Aditya Hitkari

It is an experience that will remain forever in our

“For me Australia will always

lives”.

mean the awe inspiring structure of the Sydney Opera

Vikrant Kapoor

“Work brought me to Australia many years ago,

House. What made our holiday

but this country not just welcomed and accepted

more special was perhaps the

me with open arms, but also helped me achieve

fact that Australia teaches you

my dream of staring my own restaurant. I have

how to live and enjoy life to the

seen some of the most beautiful amalgamation

fullest. When we got an

of different cultures here in Australia and feel

opportunity to share our

most happy when I have Australians relishing

experience with other Indians,

and coming back for some desi Indian food.

we enthusiastically took it up

Australia has given me a great life and some of my closest friends.

as we are sure that every

I am very pleased to be sharing my story with fellow Indians back

Indian traveler will echo our

home. I would like to invite them to come and experience the magic

sentiments that truly, Australia

of Australia themselves”.

celebrates you!”

visitors. It is fantastic to have such positive endorsement from people who have lived Australia in their individual journeys and are now sharing their own stories. Nishant Kashikar We are Country Manager- India Tourism Australia optimistic that a people’s perspective approach will add a new and distinctive dimension to our campaign.” The integrated campaign will utilize different communication channels to reach out to the discerning Indian traveller. It will run for a period of time, at least 3 months or more across a mix of media platforms which include, broadcast, print media, online and out of home mediums. The film has been shot by the team of Anupam Sharma, leading film maker and expert on the Asian entertainment sector and Bill Bennett, renowned film director, producer and screenwriter. “The films have been shot unscripted where each of the personalities talks about their own Australia story and we are very pleased with the final outcome.’’ Being an Indian settled in Australia myself, has made this an even more special initiative - to be a part of bringing together these wonderful stories”, said Anupam Sharma, There were 12,400 visitors from India during November 2010 bringing the total for the ten months to November 2010 to 124,000, an increase of 11 per cent relative to the same period of the previous year.

ASIAN TRAVELLER

FEBRUARY 2011

PROFILE

Fragrant Nature

For a true Kerala experience

vid greenery, emerald

facilities, delicious dining,

resort, fishing, bird watching

facilities, Kala Kendra - the

back waters and almost all

entertainment and hosts enjoyable

village cookery demos, cultural

amphitheatre, library, Nidhi - the

peculiarities of Kerala can

leisure activities. Anna Rasa and

programs, elephant riding,

souvenir shop and the traditional

be found at fragrant nature, a fine

Sandhya, the resort's air

resort at Paravur, near Kollam.

conditioned and roof top

Ideally located beside the

restaurants respectively serves

backwaters of Mala Lake, Fragrant

fine delicacies in the ambience of

nature is a 4 star Resort offering

the backwaters. Ritulahari is the

the ultimate in relaxation and

lake side coffee shop here. The

seclusion from the hustle and

conference hall offers space for

bustle of city life.

100 people and also has an

Nestled on over five acres of beautifully landscaped, waterside

exclusive board room facility. Swimming pool, kids pool and

land, it offers 29 Premium luxury lakeside accommodations in four categories including 15 premium lake view villas, eight premium lake view rooms, five elegant luxury lakeside rooms and a

Jacuzzi and party area are also

feeding and bathing etc. All

cruise boat. The resort is five km

majestic lake facing honeymoon

available. Prana, the wellness spa

standard amenities are made

from the national highway, it is 60

cottage.

is another highlight. Fragrant

available for the guests at the

km north of Trivandrum, the state

nature also provides a range of

resorts. Additional facilities

capital and 65 km from Trivandrum

activities like boat trips, from the

include gymnasium, recreation

international airport.

The luxury lake resort caters to all your needs with world class

ASIAN TRAVELLER

FEBRUARY 2011

DOWNUNDER

Great Barrier Reef

The world’s largest natural aquarium

The Great Barrier Reef is one of the seven wonders of the natural world and one of Australia’s most remarkable natural gifts. Located in the Coral Sea, off the coast of Queensland in north-east Australia, the reef is a very popular destination, especially for scuba divers.

ASIAN TRAVELLER

FEBRUARY 2011

Kris Madden

o matter how many photographs or David Attenborough

documentaries you’ve seen, once you’ve taken your first look at the world’s biggest aquarium, you’ll agree there’s

nothing like the Great Barrier Reef. Why is it so special? Well for starters – it’s big. Really big. It’s both the world’s biggest World Heritage Area and biggest coral reef system, and the biggest thing made out of living creatures on Earth. It’s made up of more than 3,000 individual reefs and 900 coral cays and continental islands that stretch for more than 2,000 km along the coastline of tropical North Queensland. Some islands are little more than a strip of finely crushed coral sand, precariously held together by the roots of a single palm tree. Others are sites for luxurious resorts and probably more wedding proposals and honeymoons per square metre than anywhere else in Australia. The Reef’s vivid colours and bizarre life forms are totally spellbinding. It creates a web of life for more than 1,500 species of fish, one third of the world’s soft corals, 600 species of starfish and sea urchins, six species of endangered marine turtles and more than 30 species of whales and dolphins. The best way to explore the reef is to dive right in with one of the many tour operators that offer diving and snorkeling trips; or if you are romantically inclined, you can sail off into the wild blue yonder on your own yacht. If that’s still not enough, there’s the option of taking a scenic helicopter flight of the whole spectacular extravaganza. Although you’ll probably be hypnotized by the curious marine life you’ll see during the day, just as many little sea critters that come alive at night. A remarkable way to see them is by sleeping overnight on a pontoon on the reef, where you can view the nightlife from an underwater chamber. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities knew about the treasures of the Great Barrier Reef long before Captain Cook ran his ship aground near Cape Tribulation. He wasn’t the only one as there are around 30 submerged shipwrecks in the area which conveniently now make perfect dive sites. From the romantically heart-shaped Heart Reef to whiter-thanwhite Whitehaven Beach, to the place where it meets up with another iconic World Heritage-listed area - the world’s oldest rainforests of the Daintree – the Great Barrier Reef is an Australian icon. The Great Barrier Reef is also one of 28 nominees in the New Seven Wonders of Nature competition – a global search to recognise the seven most important natural sites in the world. Photo & Article Courtesy: Tourism Australia

ASIAN TRAVELLER

FEBRUARY 2011

MARKETING

Tourism Australia conducts destination training programme

ourism Australia conducted a successful destination training programme that

was attended by the travel fraternity across seven cities in India. Created with an aim to intensify the destination awareness among the travel trade, the training sessions were held in Delhi, Chennai, Mumbai, Hyderabad, Bangalore, Ahmedabad and Kolkata from February 1-10. This initiative was supported by the Australian State & Territory Tourism Organizations

Nishant Kashikar, Country Manager - Tourism Australia, India speaks at the Destination Training Programme

(STOs) based in India. Tourism Australia along with

repeat travel and used this forum

Country Manager – India, Tourism

online training program called the

representatives of Tourism

to create awareness about new

Australia, “It is our ongoing effort

Aussie Specialist Program that

Queensland, Tourism Victoria and

experiences and products

to equip, update and guide our

enables travel trade to do a

South Australian Tourism

trade partners in

thorough learning on the

Commission conducted the

promoting Australia

destination. One of the pioneers in

training sessions. As part of the

to their consumers.

its genre, this initiative has

program, the audience were

We are extremely

witnessed a sustained increase in

educated on Australia as a leisure

pleased with the

enrolment by travel agents with

holiday destination through

available. At the training program

response and support the industry

1768 agents registered on the

detailed presentations and videos

the new products launched in the

has shown us with a strong

Program as of December 2010.

to showcase the various

India market - Self drive and

turnout for the event. We are

experiences available in different

Luxury Lodges of Australia – were

confident that measures like this

from India during November 2010

parts of Australia.

introduced to the travel agents

will assist us in spreading

bringing the total for the eleven

with guidance on promoting these

awareness on Australia and also

months to November 2010 to

to their clientele.

help build and strengthen our

124,000, an increase of 11 per

association with the travel trade.”

cent relative to the same period of

While continuing to entice first time travellers, Tourism Australia is actively working with trade partners to promote high yield

Commenting on the programme, Nishant Kashikar,

Tourism Australia runs a robust

There were 12,400 visitors

the previous year.

Austria to target high-end leisure segments from India

ustrian National Tourist

Kitzbhüle, Achensee, St. Anton am

Manufactory will be opened in

September 2, 2012 across Vienna

Office (ANTO) is looking at

Arlberg and Swarovski Crystal

Vienna by mid this year. To mark

region. On their part, Innsbruck

high-end leisure segments

World in Austria apart from the

Gustav Klimt’s 150 birth

will host Youth Olympic Games for

like FITs, MICE and from the

traditional destinations like

anniversary, a pioneer of

the third time in 2012.

Indian market to cash in on the

Vienna, Innsbruck and Tirol.

Viennese modernism a Special

interest the Indian out-bound

To further attract tourists, a

Furthermore, Austrian Federal

Klimt exhibition has been planned

Railways (OBB), the national rail

from October 14, 2011 to

network of Austria has announced

sector is showing towards Austria

major exhibition dedicated to

in recent times. Last year Austria

Egon Schiele, Austria’s leading

15 per cent discount on Austrian

received more than one lakh

artist of the 20th century, will be

Rail Pass for travel up to June 30,

overnights from India and expects

held from February 17 - June 31,

2011.

a ten per cent increase in overall

2011 in Vienna. Madame Tussauds

traffic this year. With this aim

and Augarten Porcelain

ANTO has recently organised road shows in Mumbai, Chennai and Delhi. ANTO is also looking at promoting new tourist destinations such as Ötztal,

ASIAN TRAVELLER

FEBRUARY 2011

MARKETING

SW German Tourist Board promotes luxury self-drive packages in India

n order to commemorate 125th jubilee of the invention of the car, Spillmann, an inbound tour operator for South West Germany has designed special luxury self-drive package called ‘Premium Cars of Southern Germany.’ The seven nights/eight days, five-city itinerary package which was soft launched at ITB Asia held in Singapore in October 2010, has been introduced in the Indian market by South West German Tourist Board (SWGTB) earlier this month. Apart from the specially designed package, the entire year in BadenWürttemberg will revolve around the automobile, with host of events that will bring to life over a century of automotive history. Targeted at high-end FIT and corporate segments the package offers

the circuit: Munich-FriedrichshafenStuttgart-Inglostad-Munich. Top end models of BMW, Mercedes Benz, Porsche and an Audi are offered for self drive on the four legs of the circuit, which comprises of seven overnight stays including breakfast in four and five-star hotels. SWGTB has tied-up with various tour operators in India to promote the package which is available till end of this year. This unique trip through the countryside can be augmented by optional tour packages in each of the three locations, including, for example, visits to the automobile museums and sightseeing in the cities. Duration of the package can be adapted to suit individual requirements and there is also the option of a pick up from Frankfurt and Zurich Airports.

Tourism Queensland launches India specific website

Czech Tourism plans joint promotion with Indian tour operators

zech Tourism is planning to launch a joint promotion initiative with Indian tour operators in April, May, August and September this year. As part of the initiative, the tourism board will provide investments for various advertisements to Indian tour operators to promote Czech Republic

n order to further promote and educate the Indian travel trade on Queensland’s tourism offerings, Tourism Queensland has launched its India specific website www. queenslandholidays.in. This was announced by Ryna Sequeira, Marketing Manager-India, Tourism

tour packages exclusively designed for the Indian market. In the first phase the tourism board will target Mumbai and New Delhi. The main objective of launching this initiative is to encourage Indian tour operators to promote Czech Republic as a tourist destination in the country.

Queensland during the sevencity destination training

programme organised earlier this month by Tourism Australia for frontline staff of travel agencies.

ASIAN TRAVELLER

FEBRUARY 2011

RAIL TOURISM

Austria becomes the popular choice among Eurail pass travellers

f you were going to only visit one European country this year, what would it be? In a continent teeming with diversity, new statistics show that Austria, home of Mozart, Sigmund Freud and Maria Von Trapp, is gaining popularity among Eurail riders as a one-stop destination for arts, culture, and breathtaking beauty. While traversing through multiple European countryside’s and cityscapes will never go out of style, key travel trends for 2011 indicate that shorter jaunts to the continent are becoming more in vogue among international travellers. Eurail Group G.I.E., in cooperation with their member railways, is catering to this current shift in consumer behavior by increasing their single country product offerings for those interested in shorter European getaways, making a quick trip to Spain, Denmark or the Benelux countries easier and

more accessible. The Eurail Italy Pass proved to be the most popular choice in 2010 with more than 64,000 passengers while Eurail’s Spain Pass ranked second with more than 14,000. But 2011 may witness a rise in rail travel to Austria, which rounded out the top 3 most popular Eurail One Country Passes last year. The Eurail Austria Pass offers the opportunity to travel through one of Europe’s most diverse and breathtaking terrains in record time. You can now easily ski the Tyrolean Alps, tour Salzburg’s majestic lake region (immortalized in the opening scenes of The Sound of Music), and stroll through Vienna’s royal gardens all within the same trip. And with prices starting at approximately USD 27 per travel day (depending on options selected), this

Austrian adventure can be more affordable than ever. During 2010, Eurail Group witnessed a large number of Eurail Pass holders choosing to explore their selected

centre to city centre at their own leisure whilst absorbing the ever-changing landscapes. Passengers will surely discover the flexibility that only the Eurail Pass can

destination with the One Country Pass. Eurail Group predicts that in 2011, more than 100,000 travelers will use this category of passes alone. “Eurail offers the best way to experience the European continent, enabling pass holders to hop from city

provide by jumping on and off the trains with ease” states Ana Dias e Seixas, Eurail Group’s Marketing Director. “Plus, it’s the most economical and convenient way to discover Europe, thanks to the unlimited train travel available.”

Photos: Eurail Media Library

ASIAN TRAVELLER

FEBRUARY 2011

GUJARAT TRAVELLER

Mesmerising culture

avant festival is a

properties, the royal palaces at

catharsis of emotional

Chhota Udepur and Jambughoda

splendor, a rite of

are ideal to stay near Kavant. The Rathvas loosely inhabit

passage, family liaisons, a successful harvest and the

Chhota Udepur in Vadodara

gathering of Rathva tribal

district with marginal groups

community group to recreate the

extending into Dahod and Godhra

joy of existence and life. Rathva

districts and Alirajpur in adjoining

men and women dressed in their

Madhya Pradesh district. The

distinctive finery congregate to

Rathvas are the largest tribal unit

sing and dance, discuss

in the state of Gujarat are

marriages and liaisons, barter

religiously and revere their old

themselves from other sub-groups

gyrate their hips the bells and the

goods and services all rising to a

ways in the celebrations of their

and women are bedecked with

pebbled gourds add percussion of

grand crescendo of gaiety and

rituals with a deep pride in their

community specific silver jewelry

tintinnabulation in the air. Men

high energy which almost draws

traditional culture. Music plays an

which is intricately sinewy and a

carry cane sugar signifying the

one forth into the mesmerizing

extremely important part of their

pleasure to behold.

harvest and wear an elaborate

world of Rathva culture. This year

lives and no Rathva would feel

the fair is held on 22 to 23 March.

complete without embellished

celebrated with wild dance of

photos of local deities surrounded

Flute (paavo / piho / pihoto) as a

primordial rhythm of the forest

by an array of peacock feathers.

located at the heart of the Rathva

remembrance of his forested

surrounded by the beating of

The Rathvas mural painting form

homeland near the town of Chhota

homeland.

drums, variety of flutes and the

is based on ritual traditional

The village of Kavant is

Kavant, a harvest festival is

headgear (conical hat) stuck with

stamping of feet. The men folk

beliefs and the inner walls of their

Vadodara and is well connected

one can see men wearing

wear belt attached with pebble

homes and dedicated to Pithora,

by air port, rail link and is a major

different types of turbans and

filled gourds and a string of brass

the Rathva universal God of well

city. The two interesting heritage

skirts in order to differentiate

bells. As they stamp their feet and

being.

Udepur about a 100 kms from

ASIAN TRAVELLER

On the way to Kavant village

FEBRUARY 2011

DEUTSCHLAND

All routes to Munich

Photo : Peter Schinzler. Courtesy : Munich Tourist Office

Have car, will drive? This year, don’t forget to visit the festive, progressive and downright traditional city of Munich, to pay tribute to the world’s first automobile.

ASIAN TRAVELLER

FEBRUARY 2011

DEUTSCHLAND

t was on the 29th of January 1886 that the German Imperial Patent Office granted a patent to a “three wheeled vehicle powered by a gasoline engine”. In case you’re wondering, the vehicle was the Benz Patent Motorwagen, built by Karl Benz in 1885. That’s “Benz” as in Mercedes-Benz, and yes it was, officially, the first automobile ever built! Patent DRP 37435 is regarded as the birth certificate of the modern automobile. And to mark the historic occasion of its 125th anniversary, Munich’s Deutsche Museum Verkehrszentrum (Transportation Center) is dedicating a special exhibition to the life, works and ventures of the inventor Karl Benz. On display from the 28th of January 2011, the exhibit follows the bumpy beginnings of motoring until the end of the 19th century and compares Benz’s gasoline engine to its steam and electrical counterparts, the only other alternate systems of his time. The centerpiece of the exhibition is of course the Benz Patent Motorwagen itself; the original was donated to the museum by Karl Benz in 1906 and the masterpiece has been a part of it’s collection ever since. Do you like your automobiles souped up six ways to Sunday? Well, the iconic Benz Patent Motorwagen was no exception, though we would highly recommend keeping it off the roads designed as it was, prior to pavements, traffic lights and other cars! Using bicycle like wire wheels fitted with hard rubber (Benz had a fondness for bicycles) and a four stroke, single cylinder engine mounted horizontally between its smaller rear wheels, the Motorwagen was in many ways a unique blend of a carriage and a three wheeled cycle. Displacing 990ccs, the engine produced a modest .9 horsepower, at a lazy 400rpm, achieving speeds of 16 to 18 km per hour. Still, it was pretty fast for its time,

although, now you might have a bit of trouble getting the wind to fly through your hair! Without foot brakes (it had to be stopped with a handbrake Karl Benz applied to the driver mechanism) or a reverse gear, Benz’s automobile, nevertheless included several other innovations still in use today in over 400 million modern vehicles such as an electric ignition, a water-cooled engine and a modern differential gear. In a time of horse drawn carriages where even the humble bicycle was a novelty, the appearance of the Motorwagen on the streets of Manheim must have caused quite a stir. But it seemed nobody wanted to buy it. Until Bertha Benz, determined to show her

Karl and Bertha Benz riding the ‘car’

out and pushed when the automobile was unable to climb up a hill. Bertha Benz returned home three days later having covered a total of 194 km, the longest distance ever driven in an automobile. The Motorwagen frightened people along the way but the trip received a great deal of publicity, and the rest as they say is history. The “horseless carriage” panned by critics as having no future went on to become an icon of personal mobility and freedom and laid the foundation stone for all present-day passenger cars, commercial vehicles and buses. Commemorated in 2008 as a European route of industrial heritage, the “Bertha Benz Memorial Route” follows the tracks of the world’s first long distance journey by automobile, taking in various sites visited by Bertha Benz through the picturesque wine region of Baden. This historic trip is celebrated Deutsche Museum Verkehrszentrum with a parade of antique automobiles brilliant husband that the automobile once every two years. could become a commercial success once In 2011, the State of Badenit was shown to be useful to the general Wuerttemberg is organizing the inaugupublic, took the Motorwagen (supposral Bertha Benz Challenge on the 10th edly without his knowledge) and drove and 11th of September 2011, as part of it from Manheim through Heidelberg “The Automobile Summer 2011”, a and Weisloch to her hometown of festival to celebrate the 125th anniversary Pforzheim. During the drive, Bertha had of the invention of the automobile. The to use a hatpin to clean a choked fuel Challenge, open only to vehicles powpipe and a garter to insulate a wire. She ered by alternate sources of energy, will “refueled” with Ligroin (a solvent found take place on the world’s oldest automoonly at dispensing chemists) at the Stadt- bile road, signaling its commitment to Apotheke in Weisloch, now considered the environment and hybrid automobiles the world’s first filling station and got of the future. Deutsche Museum Verkehrszentrum, another view

Deutsche Museum Verkehrszentrum, a view

ASIAN TRAVELLER

FEBRUARY 2011

PROFILE

The rooms are carefully crafted with a blend of aesthetics and modern amenities well equipped with a complete range of facilities like cable TV, electronic safe, Wi-Fi connectivity, tea/coffee making facilities and much

guests and the well-stocked bar ‘Paanam’ provide choicest collection of spirits. Modern business and conference facilities are availed here at the business centre and stateof-the-art conference rooms. It offers the best of residential and non-residential banquet and conferencing facilities ideal for meetings, interviews, seminars, weddings and parties. The meeting rooms include a 2820 sq. ft. rectangular shaped column free Orchid, with pre-function area, the Franki Pani and Mary Gold along with the

more. The in-house multi cuisine restaurant ‘Kapi’ offers various Indian and international cuisines to the

three open Lawns; Rock Garden, Swimming Pool Garden-I and II. www.chariotbeachresorts.in

Resort of aesthetic blend

hariot Beach Resorts, Mahabalipuram is located at an elevation that offers an unmatched panoramic view of the spectacular beach with 70 airconditioned elegant rooms and cottages. The guests are awaited by many memorable experiences as the resort provides a variety of amenities for relaxation and recreation. Mostly aimed at the leisure segment it caters a clientele of which about A R Madan Managing Director 65 per cent are foreign travellers. It also houses the largest swimming pool and has the biggest rooms with king size beds on

the east coast of South India. The famous monuments of the place are at walking distance from the resort. “We offer one of the most relaxing and spacious resort with the finest amenities for our guests,” says A R Madan, Managing Director. Strategically located at Five Rathas Road in Mahabalipuram, the resort is about 40 km from Chennai, 45 km from the Chennai Airport, 28 km from the Chingleput railway station, and 1.5 km away from Mahabalipuram bus stand. The various accommodation options here include 34 standard rooms, 28 cottages, 4 sea view cottages and 4 sea view suites tastefully done in contemporary style and decor.

ASIAN TRAVELLER

FEBRUARY 2011

HOSPITALITY

Royal weddings galore at WelcomHeritage

edding is considered to

experiencing the traditional

be the most auspicious

festivities in very private settings

moment of one’s life

as if its one’s own palace. Most

and who doesn’t want to make it a

certainly the wedding celebrations

special affair. With an objective to

at these properties have also

tap the ever growing demand for

given a boost to them to emerge

hosting royal weddings both for

as preferred Royal Wedding

the domestic clientele as well as

Destinations in the country”, he

high net worth NRI’s who are

said. WH hotels have also been

looking for special experiences

witnessing shootings of some of

with folk entertainments, thematic setups specially at

also given a strong visibility to the

Umed Bhawan Palace and

the famous movies with Rajneeti

WelcomHeritage Khimsar Fort and

properties for discerned visitors,

WelcomHeritage Bal Samand Lake

being the recent one of them with

Khimsar Sand Dunes at Khimsar

said Sunil Sikka, Head-Marketing

Palace, Jodhpur also have

its shooting done at

and other WelcomHeritage

and Business Development.

excellent banqueting facilities

WelcomHeritage Noor-Us-Sabah

which are like a heaven for

Palace in Bhopal. Also the very

palaces and Resorts have now

“Some of our properties have

been promoted as perfect

inventory to hold large wedding

couples looking for out of box

famous wedding scene in 3 Idiots

wedding destinations.

celebrations with excellent

marriage experiences. These

has been shot at the lush green

WelcomHeritage properties have

banquet facilities such as

properties at Jodhpur, Khimsar,

lawns at the WelcomHeritage

experienced a boost in the

WelcomHeritage Khimsar Fort and

Kota and Bhopal have been

Woodville Palace. Famous movie

number of weddings both Royal

WelcomHeritage Noor-Us-Sabah

unarguably accepted as perfect

Black has also been shot at the

and Celebrity weddings which has

Palace, Bhopal. WelcomHeritage

venues for Royal Weddings and

property.

Fortune Inn Exotica opened in Pune

ortune Park Hotels Ltd, a

Fortune Inn Exotica is

forming a lucrative travel circuit

wholly owned subsidiary of

conveniently located just at the

for business as well as leisure

ITC Ltd, has announced

entrance of Hinjewadi on the

travellers.” Fortune Inn Exotica

the opening of its 36th property

Wakad- Hinjewadi Road in Rajiv

features 54 well appointed rooms

named Fortune Inn Exotica, which

Gandhi InfoTech & Biotech Park,

is their second hotel in Pune.

off the Pune Mumbai Expressway

including 32 Standard Rooms, 17 and only 45 minutes drive from

Fortune Club Rooms and 5 Suites.

the domestic airport at Lohegaon

Equipped with latest technology

and 18 kms from Pune railway

and amenities, the rooms have

station. The opening of this hotel

been uniquely designed in a

is yet another addition to the ever

contemporary style décor to suit

expanding portfolio of Fortune

the needs and taste of the

Hotels which now has 36

discerning business traveller. With

operational hotels, 62 signed

the launch of this hotel, the total

alliances across 46 cities.

number of Fortune Inn category

According to Suresh Kumar,

hotels in the country now stands

President, Fortune Hotels, “The

at seven with hotels at Jammu,

property is strategically located

Pune, Visakhapatnam, Noida,

and connects perfectly to the

Manipal and Gandhinagar already

other properties in the region

operational.

ASIAN TRAVELLER

FEBRUARY 2011

INCREDIBLE INDIA

Goa Carnival

Aroma of overwhelming fun

t's a unique spectacle of sorts

in India. The carnival is not

marked by unbridled festivities

celebrated anywhere else in India

that's all set to enliven the

and was in decline even in Goa in

streets of Goa with the vibrant

the last few years of Portuguese

three-day Goa Carnival of

rule. Its revival with the Liberation

feasting, drinking and merry-

of Goa, and a boost to its tourism

making from March 5 this year.

was therefore welcome. From

To the attraction of countless

being almost on the brink of

visitors from far and wide, a

decline, this three day festival of

pageant of prolific floats set to

gay abandon and riotous revelry

rhythm by a convoy of musical

now attracts thousands of tourists

parades will form part of the three-

to Goa from all over the world

day carnival that will conclude on

every year. The origins and nature of the

March 8. Derived from the Latin word meaning 'to take away meat',

carnival can be traced to the

of a farce, where the white

processions, music and unlimited

the word Carnival is an expression

hedonistic feasts of ancient Rome

colonial rulers pretended to be

food being part and parcel of the

of the 40-day period of fasting of

and Greece. These carnivals

'black' slaves, and the slaves,

festivities. One wakes up to the

Lent, during which abstinence

started in the Spanish and

mostly from Mozambique,

sounds of cymbals and bagpipers

from meat is a rule.

Portuguese colonies, and

plastered their faces with flour

procession making their way

gradually became known for their

and took on the role of the

through the street. The state

singing, dancing and drinking.

masters.

capital, Panjim brims with an

Generally February indicates the onset of this bright carnival in

In those days Goa was ruled

Goa, symbolic of an assorted

inescapable aroma of

The festive aura fills every

cultural mix of Portuguese and

by the Portuguese and the

corner of the state in true form; it's

overwhelming fun. The Red and

local strains that make the state

tradition of an annual festival-

a time for unrestrained

Black dance is a perfect way to

unique from the rest of the states

held four days. It started as a bit

merrymaking, with dancing,

wind up the Carnival. The legendary Momo, King of Chaos leads his entourage of fireeaters, acrobats, clowns, jesters, dancers, brass bands and revelers in parade down the main street of Panaji, Goa. King Momo commands his people to 'kha, piye and majja kar' - eat, drink and make merry and so be it in the years to come.

Heli Taxi services launched in Himachal

imachal Pradesh has launched the

Dera-Ki-Gali in J&K to be promoted as ecotourism site

much-awaited Heli Taxi services to cater

to high-end tourists. State Chief Minister

era-Ki-Gali in Pir Panchal belt in Rajouri district, Jammu and Kashmir will be

promoted as the first Ecotourism spot

Prem Kumar Dhumal has inaugurated the

in the state.

service in Shimla. In the absence of regular

According to Mian Altaf, Minister for

air services, the Heli Taxi Service is expected

Forests and Environment, Jammu and

to attract foreign as well as domestic tourists, who are keen to visit hitherto

began for four places, Shimla to Kullu

Kashmir, Dera-ki-Gali and its adjoining areas

unexplored and lesser-known destinations

Manali, Dharamsala, Reckong Peo and

will be developed under the project in a

through 56 helipads. The Heli Taxi services

Chandigarh.

phased manner. The total cost of the pilot project is expected to come to Rs 2.40 crore.

ASIAN TRAVELLER

FEBRUARY 2011

AVIATION

Etihad, Hertz partnership to create “air to road” luxury travel

tihad Airways has signed a

a unique platform enabling Etihad

package of two return

three-year agreement with

Call Centre staff to offer

Etihad flights to

Hertz, bringing the airline’s

customers a competitive deal on

either Europe or

passengers a broad range of

car hire while booking their flights

Australia, five nights’

worldwide car rental benefits and

by phone. Hertz car rental

5-star

money saving offers. The

services are now available to all

accommodation at

partnership is designed to

Etihad customers worldwide

Relais & Chateaux,

integrate the technology platforms

through multiple reservation

and the use of a

of both Hertz and Etihad Airways

channels, including etihad.com,

Hertz Prestige

to deliver a seamless travel

Etihad call centres, Etihad

Collection vehicle for

experience from the departure

Holidays and retail outlets.

five days to explore

gate to the driving seat.

To mark the beginning of the

the open road. Terms

new partnership, all Etihad

and conditions apply,

dedicated microsite allowing

customers renting a car with Hertz

and are available on

Etihad customers to conveniently

by April 30, 2011 will have the

the Etihad website

book online, and has also created

chance to win a luxurious

www.etihad.com.

Hertz has built a new

Boeing rolls out 1000th 767 jet

James Hogan, Chief Executive Officer of Etihad Airways and Michel Taride, President of Hertz International, after signing of the threeyear partnership, in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

Virtual help at London’s Luton Airport

ondon’s Luton Airport has unveiled the world’s first

holographic announcers, deployed to aid in simplifying

oeing marked a proud

Final production work already is

airport security. Holly and

moment in the

underway on the 1,001 unit

Graham, the new virtual helpers,

company’s history

in a new, smaller bay that

will assist in relaying important

holographic announcers will be

February 2, at a ceremonial

repositions the production line

security messages to passengers

stationed at the Central Search

rollout of the 1,000th 767

toward a leaner, more efficient

as they go through check-in to the

Area for a trial period of eight

airplane. Hundreds of current

operation.

departure lounge. The two

weeks.

employees, joined by Boeing

The 767 family is a family of

retirees who worked on the first

clean, quiet, fuel-efficient

767, gathered to celebrate the

airplanes that provide maximum

occasion at the Everett,

market versatility in the 200- to

Washington, factory.

300-seat market. The 767 family

The 1,000th airplane is a 767-

includes three passenger models

300ER (extended range)

– the 767-200ER, 767-300ER and

passenger model for ANA (All

767-400ER – and a medium-

Nippon Airways) and was the

widebody freighter, which is

final 767 to complete assembly

based on the 767-300ER

on the current production line.

fuselage.

Turkish to invest in Indian airports

elebi Holdings, a Turkish

passenger traffic, and improve

firm, is investing USD100-

efficiency and security in the

million in ground handling and

Indian airports. Celebi will be

equipment at India’s New Delhi

serving half of all international

and Mumbai airports, to be

flight traffic in and out of Delhi

completed by 2015. This

and Mumbai.

investment is being undertaken in

It has also set sights on

order to meet the growing

opportunities to enter an airport in

demand of air cargo and

the south of India.

Etihad launches dance competition

tihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, has announced the launch of ‘Next Stop Bollywood’, an online dance

competition with Katrina Kaif, the airline’s brand ambassador. The online competition will be run through a custom- built Facebook application where contestants can upload and share their dance videos for public voting. The 10 videos with the maximum number of votes will be short listed and Katrina Kaif will select and announce the three finalists and the ultimate winner on May 20, 2011.

ASIAN TRAVELLER

Katrina Kaif

FEBRUARY 2011

TAMIL NADU TRAVELLER

Temple towns

cclaimed as the ‘temple state of India’, interwoven with its culture and tradition, Tamil Nadu is a unique destination for pilgrimage tourism. It is one of the hotspots of pilgrimage tourism by virtue of the plethora of historic monuments, temples with intricate carvings and humbling gateways. For pilgrims who await a religious experience, each attraction has a religious or artistic story attached to it and it will leave them spellbound. The major destinations of the northern region in Tamil Nadu consist of Chennai, Kanchipuram, Mahabalipuram and Pondicherry. Kanchipuram is known for Ekamareshwara Temple, which has a 200 ft tall gopuram and the Kailashnath Temple with exquisite sculptures of Shiva. Kanchipuram is called the ‘City of a 1000 Temples’ and is also famous as a center of silk weaving in India. Mahabalipuram is a heritage centre consisting of prominent temples and monuments and is also famous for its sunny beaches

which are a popular destination for tourists who want to relax. The southern region of Tamil Nadu consists of an attractive view of the surrounding hill ranges as well as the charming feeling of lush green lands. Madurai, Rameshwaram and Kanyakumari are well known destinations in the southern side of the state. Rameshwaram, a popular place among pilgrims, is considered a holy place for devotees of Lord Shiva as Rameshwaram temple is one of the Jyotirlinga Temples. Curiously, most of the Jain monuments are concentrated in and around Madurai. There are about 26 caves in Anaimalai, Alagarmalai, Tiruparankundram, Muttupatti, Vikramangalam, Karungalakkudi, Kongarpuliyankulam, Mankulam, Tiruvatavur and Varichiyur belong to the second and first centuries B.C. The names of the monks who lived in these cave-dwellings are engraved on these monuments. Thiruvannamalai, a pilgrim town, is also the headquarters of the district by

Temples are part of Tamil Nadu’s cultural milieu. Besides being the centre of religious activities temples played a role in socio-cultural synthesis too. the same name. It is located 82 km south of Vellore and 187 km away from Chennai. Thiruvannamalai is famous for the Arunachaleswarar Temple, one of the oldest and most famous Shiva Temples in South India. It is located at the foot of the Annamalai hill/ Arunachal Hill, and a short distance from the famous Sri Ramanashram. It is built between the 9th and the 10th centuries by the Chola kings of the Tamil empire. The four Rajagopurams of 60m high

which are positioned on the four sides of the complex dominate the centre of the town. Besides these four gopurams, there are more than 300 towers. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, it is worshipped in the form of fire and sprawls over an area of 25 acres of land. The temple’s walls runs to a length of 1,320 metres pierced with gates and towers. Inside the complex, there are many shrines, mandapams, corridors, enclosures adorned with massive pillars with intricately carved sculptures. These temples are proof of the architectural genius of the bygone era. The temples at Mahabalipuram and Tanjore belong to this category. Besides, the town is dotted with more than 100 small shrines dedicated to different deities, ashrams including those of Ramana Maharshi, and Seshadri Swamigal and around 360 holy water sources in and around Thiruvannamalai The Murugan temple at

ASIAN TRAVELLER

FEBRUARY 2011

TAMIL NADU TRAVELLER

Tirupporur, Tamil Nadu built during the reign of the Pallava rulers is one of the major temples dedicated to Lord Muruga and is situated at a distance of about 45 km from Chennai. According to legend, Skanda enunciated the principle of pranava or reality to the Devas. Pranavam is said to have worshipped Skanda and the hill behind the temple is known as ‘Pranava Malai’. Lord Vishnu worshipped Shiva on the Pranava hill and legends also say that Skanda worshipped Shiva as Vanmeekeswara to rid himself of the sin of having killed Soorapadman. He is also enshrined in the form of a child, expounding the meaning of the oneness of creation Om to his father Lord Shiva.

The Madurai Meenakshi temple is one of the largest complexes in India. Meenakshi presides over the ancient city. The temple covers over an area of six hectares. It has 12 gopurams or gateways, ranging in height from 45 to 50 m, the tallest being the southern gateway. The gopurams are crowded with the images of gods, goddesses, gargoyles, and gryphons and one can experience a myriad of colors atop these gateways. The Ramanathaswamy Temple is one of the most sacred shrines of the Hindus in India. The Jyotirlingam at the Ramanathaswamy temple is the southernmost of the 12 Jyotirlingams of India. It is considered as holy as Varanasi. Whosoever visits

Varanasi, is supposed to make a trip to Rameshwaram to consider his pilgrimage complete. Rameshwaram is said to be the place where Lord Rama offered thanks to Lord Shiva in return for his support in defeating King Ravana. This makes Rameshwaram an important pilgrimage destination for devotees of both Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu. The Swamimalai temple is one of the six shrines dedicated to Lord Subramanya and is associated with the legend of Skanda having re-initiated his father Shiva, with the concept of the oneness of creation of Omkaram. The temple is built on an artificial hill, approached by a flight of

steps. Velankanni a picturesque town situated amidst the shores of Bay of Bengal termed as the ‘Mecca of South Asian Christianity’ and is famous for the shrine Basilica that is dedicated to ‘Lady of health’. The shrine draws pilgrims from all faiths and from all over the world. It is about 350km south of Chennai, on the Coromandel Coast and 12km south of Nagapattinam. Kanyakumari, a legendary place at the southern most tip of India and the meeting point of three seas - the Bay of Bengal, the Arabian Sea and the Indian Ocean, is one of the popular destinations. This important pilgrim centre is also well known for its beaches.

ASIAN TRAVELLER

FEBRUARY 2011

TAMIL NADU TRAVELLER

Tamil Nadu leading the charts

amil Nadu Tourism

markets. He has also said that

with bed and breakfast facilities

into maritime landmark

Development Corporation

more attractive measures in the

are also proposed to be done

destinations. Among them

(TTDC) MD, A. Chittaranjan

cultural products like the heritage

along with this. Union Shipping

Chennai, Mamallapuram,

tours will be launched in the near

Minister G.K.Vasan had recently

Rameshwaram, Kanyakumari-

launched the project for building

Muttam and Paradeep are those

14 lighthouses across the country

from the state. Three new

at a cost of Rs.300 crore.

lighthouses at a cost of Rs 2.5

Mohandoss IAS has announced

future.

recently that Tamil Nadu has

Another

recorded the highest number of foreign tourist arrivals for the

major advent

second consecutive year. 28.05

for tourism in

lakh visitors from other countries

Tamil Nadu is

visited the state between January to December 2010 compared to 23.69 lakh in 2009. The numbers

A. Chittaranjan Mohandoss IAS MD, TTDC

lighthouse tourism in which major

have more than doubled since

lighthouses will be turned into

2005 from 11.79 lakh.

museums and places of tourist

He said that the rise in arrivals was contributed mainly by the art

attractions. Museums, rooms, cafeteria,

and cultural richness showcased

souvenier shop, viewers gallery,

in the festivals along with major

4D cinema hall, gaming zone and

other products including medical

aquarium will be built at the

tourism, beach tourism, rail-cum-

Chennai lighthouse while the one

road tourism, adventure tourism,

at Mamallapuram will have a laser

eco-tourism and leisure segment.

show, a spa and rejuvenation

The state has been projecting its

centre and a resort, apart from the

attractions and products in the

other facilities. Packages like â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Be

of tourism these lighthouses and

Marakkanam, Venbam and

international and domestic

A Lightkeeper For A Dayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; along

surrounding areas will be turned

Koothangudi in the state.

ASIAN TRAVELLER

FEBRUARY 2011

Aimed also for the promotion

crore each would be set up at

HERITAGE

Chettinadu, the homeland of the Nattukottai Chettiars, is a region which still retains its old world charms - and famous for cuisine, mansions and temples.

Chettinad and its opulence

he word grandeur is what comes to mind when the very mention of Chettinad is made. Situated in the Sivaganga district of Tamil Nadu, the place derives its name from Nattukottai Chettiar, an affluent banking and business community. The region occupies an important place in the cultural heritage of Tamil Nadu as it is

known for its scrumptious cuisine, majestic palaces and ancient temples. The culture of Chettinad had spread far and wide essentially through its delicacies which are most sought after, especially in the southern part of the country. The dishes have a spicy tang with a mouth watering aroma that compliments it perfectly well. Unlike many South Indian societies nonvegetarian preparations occupy a place of honour in the Chettinad cuisine.

For a culture that has always been associated with royalty, the Chettinad mansions stand as a landmarks of the centuries gone by. Embellished with marble and Burma teak with wide courtyards and spacious rooms, the majestic structures evoke a sense of magnificence in the eyes of the beholders. The Chettinad temples built by old Tamil dynasties like the Cholas are still considered as architectural landmarks. Among the famous temples, are the Vairavan Kovil temple, Karpaga Vinayakar temple, Kundrakudi Murugan temple, Kottaiyur Sivan temple and Kandanur Sivan Temple. One unique feature of these temples is a pond where water lilies are

grown and used for holy rituals. At these temples, spirituality is in perfect sync with beauty and creativity. A lesser known element of the Chettinad culture is the Chettinad cottton saris that come in contrasting hues and intriguing patterns. But the thickness of this sari and changing demands has kept it out of production for nearly a hundred years. Chettinad is well connected by trains that run from Chennai to Rameshwaran and stops at the town areas of Karaikudi, Kanadukaathan and Kallal. The nearest airport is Madurai airport and is 85 km away. Winter is the most pleasant time to visit the region as the temperature dips to 20째C.

ASIAN TRAVELLER

FEBRUARY 2011

TAMIL NADU TRAVELLER

Getting around Chennai Dr. S. Bakthavatchalam

attractions enroute Mamallapuram

water sports

from Chennai. Dhakshinachithra is

and fishing.

amil Nadu has a fine

a living art village with rich

Having

conglomeration of urban

cultural heritage located near

picturesque

and rural population who

Muttukadu on the way to

surroundings

has their own recreations and

Mahabalipuram. As the name says

with backwaters

tastes for travel. People visiting

it is an attempt to preserve some

and sand dunes

cities like Chennai for business

of the traditional ways of life from

it is the venue of

purposes and the urban

the four south Indian states; Tamil

the boat festival

population here have a lot of

Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka and

conducted by

opportunities for short visits and

Andhra Pradesh. Traditional

the TTDC to promote water sports

British. It was further disarranged

picnics around the city as there

homes of different regions are

in the state. Banana Boating,

by an earthquake.

are many small spots around.

constructed here along with

Water Scooter, Kayaking, Speed

traditional artisans and craftsmen

boat ride, regular rowboats and

village on the Thiruvannamalai-

Mamallapuram was a 7th century

making various traditional

pedal boats are availed here for

Viluppuram rail route, at about 14

Pallava port city located 60 km

handicrafts like kalamkari, pottery,

the visitors.

km from Thiruvannamalai.

south of Chennai in Tamil Nadu.

handlooms, silk weaving etc. Live

Being one of the UNESCO World

demonstrations of these are done

Kottai situated 50 km from

Ramana Ashram, Sri Seshadri

Heritage Sites it stocks a treasure

here. Founded by the Madras

Mamallapuram is a 17th century

Swamigal Ashram and Yogi Ram

which consist the shore temple,

Craft Foundation, it is an ideal

fort which once had a 100-metre

Surathkumar Ashram are among

various bas reliefs, rock cut

place to shop for souvenirs.

long dockyard stretching into the

the prime spots that can be visited

sea. It has been a main centre of

in Tandarai. MGR Film City,

rathas etc which provides a

small village which offers a

trade and was gifted to the French

Muttukaadu, Pulicat Lake are

variety holiday for the visitors.

tranquil experience along with a

by the local ruler which was later

some of the other attractive

There are a number of other

number of activities including

captured and destroyed by the

places around Chennai.

â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Mahabalipuramâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; or

caves, monolithic sculptures,

ASIAN TRAVELLER

Mudaliar Kuppam is another

FEBRUARY 2011

Alamparai Fort or the Alambara

Tandarai is another attractive

Arunachaleswarar Thirukoil, Sri

TAMIL NADU TRAVELLER

Temple Sculptures

Time travel in art and culture Depicting tales of yore though the medium of fine art has been one of the vibrant traditions in India. Centuries old sculpted history and myths still convenes audiences from different corners of the world and conveys the message with the same intensity and excitement although contemplation patterns or culture itself has evolved and prospered though the ages. Tamil Nadu, one of the culturally and intellectually rich states with a strong Dravidian background has offered a lot to the art as it was woven close to the religious beliefs and patronised by its rulers.

Lerbin T K

amil Nadu is a land having a rich history that dates back to several thousand years. The culture and traditions make life here a festive notion. The monuments and temples of the state exhibits innumerous pieces of artistic and sculptural excellence

ASIAN TRAVELLER

FEBRUARY 2011

TAMIL NADU TRAVELLER

incorporated in various schools of architecture that evolved in different eras. Known as the land of temples, Tamil Nadu has always attracted thousands to witness its marvel in the length and

breadth of the state. Tamil Nadu houses temples from before the Christian era to those from the 20th century alike. But the grandeur of those built by the erstwhile rulers still prevails. Each has

its own story of religious, artistic and cultural accomplishments. The ancient stories mostly related to religion, mythology, legendary heroics initially were passed on to the generations orally. Later paintings and sculptures stepped in for the purpose before proper writing and keeping of history came to being. The paintings and sculptures were still given due importance then also.

around 33000 temples in the state in different time periods. The temple building used to span long periods of time resulting in various methods and styles. The early temples of Pallavas dating till 700 AD were built with brick, mortar and wood. Cave temples were also important places of worship. Hinduism had a great revival during this period along with Art and Architecture. In fact, it was

Hinduism was the base for most of the places. Temple sculpture of Tamil Nadu received always had royal patronage from its rulers. Temples of Tamil Nadu were always known for their mammoth â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;gopuramsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; and different architectural. The Pallavas, Cholas, Pandayas and Nayaka empires have contributed significantly in building

the Pallavas who established the foundations of medieval south Indian architecture. Most of the sculptures here are bas reliefs which are carved inside rock cut temples, traditional temples and on exposed rock surfaces. Kanchipuram, the capital of Pallavas and the port town Mamallapuram still have some of the remnants of their majestic realm. The Shore

ASIAN TRAVELLER

FEBRUARY 2011

TAMIL NADU TRAVELLER Temple Mamallapuram and Kailasanathar Temple, Kanchipuram are the finest examples of the lot. There are rock-cut temples, excavated pillared halls and monolithic shrines known as rathas in Mahabalipuram. Killing of Mahishasuran by goddess Durga, Penance of Baheeratha or Arjuna and Krishna protecting the people from Indra are some of the main stories potrayed by the sculptures at Mamallapuram. The group of monuments at Mahabalipuram has been classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Imperial Cholas, the rulers of Tanjore built some of the finest sculptures with their advanced skill continued the temple-building traditions of the Pallava dynasty. They developed the Dravidian style of temple architecture along with many other domestic constructions like planned cities, artificial lakes, dams etc. The early Cholas built a number of Siva temples along the banks of the river Kaveri. It was the Cholas who started constructing gopurams at the gateways of the temples. The purity of artistic traditions of the Cholas that extended for centuries stands tall among all other styles and modes of temple architecture. The two temples at Tanjore

and Gangaikonda Cholapuram in Tiruchirapalli District built in early 11th century A.D. are the best examples of Chola art. The Brihadeswara or Rajarajeswara Temple, Tanjore built in 1010 A.D. is the largest and highest of Chola temples. The main structure built in granite has a square base about 53 metres high and its lofty shikhara of thirteen successive storeys is 57.7 metres high. The three sides of the main shrine contain idols of various gods and goddesses and the passage around the sanctum is covered with panels of exquisite paintings. The gopuram on the entrance gates are decorated with beautiful sculptures. The Shiva temple at Gangaikonda Cholapuram houses massive grandeur and huge structures decorated with minute sculptures. Chola bronzes, the renowned Chola crafting of the idols of Hindu gods and goddesses of different sizes in bronze can be found in numerous museum around the world representing the empireâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s excellence in sculpturing. Nataraja or dancing Shiva portraying the Cosmic dance of Shiva is the most popular among them. The Brihadisvara Temple at

Thanjavur, the temple of Gangaikondacholisvaram at Gangaikondacholapuram and the Airavatesvara Temple at Darasuram were declared as World Heritage Sites by the UNESCO. The Pandya Empire had their contributions to the temple architecture. Being in power for three times in four centuries it has promoted both rock-cut and structural temples. Above 50 Pandyan cave temples dedicated to Siva, Vishnu and Bramha have been found. The rock-cut temples have monolithic vimanas. Most important of them include

Malaiyadikkurichi, Anaimalai, Karaikudi, Kalugumalai, Thirupparankundram and Trichy. Sculptures of Siva, Subramanya, Ganesha, Brahmma and Durga are found on the walls of these caves. Of the earlier Pandiyas the structural stone temples had vimana, mandapa and sikhara although they were small in size. Temples built by the latter Pandya rulers had large vimanas with finely sculptured idols and the gopurams. Gopuras, Prakaras, Vimanas, Garbagrahas are the special features of the Pandya temple architecture. The period of the Pandyas

ASIAN TRAVELLER

FEBRUARY 2011

TAMIL NADU TRAVELLER were more of a period of renaissance for sculpturing. Being more elegant and ornamental it portrayed more messages and values. Vishnu sculpture at Kunnakudi and Nataraja sculpture at Thiurkolakkudi along with sculptures of Somaskandar, Durga, Ganapathy, Narasimha, Nataraja in places like Kalugumalai, Thirupparankundram, Thiurmalaipuram and Narthamalai are renowned. Bronze sculptures were also coming in their time. Images of horses and other animals were carved on

pillars. Fresco paintings of the Pandyan period is found in the Chittannavasal cave temples where the ceilings

and pillars bear the painted figures of dancing girls, the king and queen, plants and animals. Paintings of lotus, bathing elephants and playing fishes are also found. The best among their temples are Meenakshi Sundareshwar temple at Madurai and Aranganathar temple at Srirangam. Temples at Madurai, Chidambaram, Kumbakonam, Thiruvannamalai, Srirangam are also good examples. The sculptural wealth of the Madurai Meenakshi Sundareswarar temple is amazing. Kambattadi Mandapam here famous for the life sized sculptures. The Nandi Mandapam in this hall

is a monolithic structure with the various aspects of Shiva including Agora Veerabhadra, Agni Veerabhadra, the Urdhwa Taandavam of Shiva, Ardhanaareeswarar and Sankaranarayanan. Meenakshi Kalyanam, Kaali,images of Tripurasamhaaramurthy, Kaalasamhaaramurthy and Raavanaanugrahamurthy are also some of the noted sculptures here. The 1000 pillared hall with a profound collection of sculptures and the profusion of stucco works are the other attractions here. In the Natya Sastra, the earliest literature detailing the classical dance forms Bharata has described 108 karanas in

his fourth chapter. These dance sculptures of Tanjore especially in the Brhadiswara temple which has karana figures in the first tier of the Vimana shows the artâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s prevalence in the Chola period. All the 108 are found carved in the Sarangapani temple, Kumbakonam although not in the order. The Nataraja sculpture is the most popular and the premier representation of the classical dance in India. The Nataraja temple, Chidambaram is one of the major landmarks in the dance sculpturing. It has all the 108 figures carved in the entrance of the four gopurams which was completed in a period of three centuries.

ASIAN TRAVELLER

FEBRUARY 2011

HOSPITALITY

Synergy Hotels & Resorts

Delivering quality stays

ynergy hotels and resorts Pvt. Ltd. (SHRPL) has been one of the progressive companies that has earned a reputation in the industry for their quality in services. Synergy aims to enhance the business generation for deserving hotels in a globalizing environment by delivering superior and sustainable success values. Found in 2005 by a group of dynamic experienced professionals from the hospitality industry in hotel management and sales operations, it renders marketing services to more than 25 hotels in different parts of the subcontinent. Apart from general management, SHRPL also focuses in conceptualizing,

ASIAN TRAVELLER

site inspection, planning of facilities, planning management policies and system, manpower management, F&B Management (Production and Services), purchases, equipment procurement, installation and branding. It has also expanded its operations into hotel manage-

FEBRUARY 2011

ment. Their maiden venture of managing includes Hotel Ivy Studios, Pune and Royal Camps, Sam, Jaisalmer which is also partly owned by SHRPL. The core team of SHRPL comprises of professionals with each over fifteen years of experience in the hotel industry in planning, organizing, sales and marketing, hotels operations management etc. SHRPL has established strong presence in Gujarat, Pune and Udaipur and have also set up sales offices in Mumbai and Bengaluru. SHRPL also has plans to immediately diversify base to other cities like Indore, Hyderabad, Chennai, Delhi, Kolkatta, Chandigarh, etc. www.synergyhotels.net

Hilton to add 19 hotels in India

ilton Worldwide is on course to add 19 hotels to

its portfolio in India in the next five years. Six of them will begin operations in 2011 which include Hilton hotels, Doubletree by Hilton, Hilton Garden Inn and Hampton by Hilton brands. India and China are the major targets of Hilton in the Asia pacific region. The companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s expansion strategy is primarily through management contracts but will also consider a strategic investment opportunities in a gateway city for one of the core brands. At present, Hilton Worldwide manages three properties in India â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Hilton Garden Inn, Hilton New Delhi and the newly added Hilton Mumbai International Airport.

PHOTO ESSAY

Thrissur Pooram

Behind the scenes In this photo essay, Praveen Muraleedharan of Eco Ventures, captures the spirit of Thrissur pooram from a different angle. He wandered the streets of Thrissur with a camera in hand during pooram days and captured these ‘behind the scenes’ moments. ASIAN TRAVELLER

FEBRUARY 2011

PHOTO ESSAY

March-April is the season of temple festivals in Kerala. In central Kerala, the temple festivals are called â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;pooramsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;. Thrissur Pooram is the most famous among the poorams and attracts thousands of people every year from far and near. During pooram days Thrissur, the cultural capital of Kerala, becomes a sea of humanity who throng the streets of the town. 60

ASIAN TRAVELLER

FEBRUARY 2011

PHOTO ESSAY

Kerala has more than seven hundred elephants in captivity. Most of them are owned by temples and individuals and are used for religious ceremonies in and around the temples. Elephants, which are the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;state animalsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; of Kerala, are an integral part of festivals in the state.

One can not imagine a Kerala festival with out an elephant decorated with nettipattom (ornamental head gear) bells, and necklaces and people mounted on them holding multicoloured silk parasols, white tufts and peacock-feather fans. Thrissur Pooram has one of the largest gatherings of elephants for a temple festival.

Fireworks are another attraction of Thrissur Pooram. The decorated elephants and the colourful fireworks are the two images that the word Thrissur Pooram brings to the minds of anyone who has pooram experience. The fireworks are held at Thekkinkad ground near the Vadakkumnathan Temple and start in the early hours of the night and last for several hours. ASIAN TRAVELLER

FEBRUARY 2011

KARNATAKA TRAVELLER

Stunning tourist destination

ana or Bhairavakshetra, the gigantic rock is an important pilgrimage center and also a popular rock climbing destination in Shimoga district, Karnataka. Situated in the beautiful evergreen forests in the Sahyadri range it is 25 km from the coastal town of Kumta and 40km from Sirsi near the Chandrika River and is only 60 km from Karwar. Rugged mountains, gurgling streams and lush green forest are an ideal destination for pilgrims, trekkers, and nature-lovers alike and can see the stunning sight of the awesome Bhairaveshwara and Jaganmohini shikharas, or peaks. A cave temple dedicated to Lord Shiva lies below these shikharas.

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A legend associated with Yana holds that Bhasmasura, an evil demon, performed penance to Lord Shiva and obtained the power of reducing to ashes anybody on whose head he placed his

sued Shiva with the intention of destroying him, Shiva took abode in the Bhairaveshwara peak at Yana. The other peak is called Jaganmohini in honour of Vishnu, who took the form of

meters, the idol of Goddess Parvathi is found at the base of Mohini peak. These two peaks are solid composition of black crystalline limestone. It is also an ideal place for sightseeing and other activi-

hand. An ungrateful Bhasmasura, however, soon decided to test the boon on his benefactor. Devotees believe that when Bhasmasura pur-

Mohini and saved Lord Shivaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s life. The Bhairaveshwara peak is about 120 meters and the Mohini peak is about 90

ties like nature Photography, bird watching, camping, hiking and trekking and an exciting place for adventure tourists.

FEBRUARY 2011

KERALA TRAVELLER

Kerala’s moment at PATA Awards

t was Kerala’s moment at this time at PATA Awards 2011. God’s own country has walked away with five of the top honours for outstanding achievement in tourism – which include PATA Grand Awards in Kodiyeri Balakrishnan the environTourism Minister ment category for its ‘Responsible Tourism’ efforts in Kumarakom and three PATA Gold Awards for the state’s new global campaign film ‘Your Moment is Waiting’. Prominent Kerala resort chain CGH Earth won the PATA Gold Award in the Corporate Environmental Programme category for best eco-friendly practices. Expressing satisfaction, Kerala Tourism Minister Kodiyeri Balakrishnan remarked, “The Grand Award puts an even greater responsibility on us to ensure that the achievements of Responsible Tourism in Kumarakom are sustained and taken to the next level to create a replicable model in tourism practices. The three awards for ‘Your Moment is Waiting’ signify the creative edge, which our

marketing campaigns have been acclaimed for. But this is the first time that Kerala has won four international awards of significance. We are very proud of it.” Kerala Tourism’s film ‘Your Moment is Waiting’ won three PATA Gold awards in Marketing: Secondary Government Destination, Marketing: Media-Travel Advertisement Broadcast Media and Marketing: MediaPublic Relations. Kerala Tourism Secretary Dr. Venu V. said, “This is an unprecedented honour. It is a recognition of the hard work put in by Kerala Tourism, its department, its associates and its agencies in managing the Kerala brand and devising an innovative marketing strategy.” Kerala Tourism Director M. Sivasankar said, “It is a remarkable achievement for Kerala and its tourism industry. Kerala Tourism has won several awards in the past, but it is the first time the department has swept the awards at an international level.”

efforts to transform Kumarakom into a ‘waste-free area’ and green practices in hotels and resorts. The three-minute film, ‘Your Moment is Waiting’, which had its world premiere at the Saatchi Gallery in London in September last year, was feted both by the media and M. Sivasankar IAS the tourism Tourism Director industry for its subtle and surreal representation of the ethereal beauty of Kerala. Directed by Prakash Varma of Vadafone Zoo-Zoo fame, ‘Your Moment is Waiting’ was conceived by Stark Kumarakom Communications Pvt. Ltd., which manages the international marketing and promotion of Kerala Tourism. There were 223 entries from 102 organizations and individuals from the Asia Pacific region this year for the PATA awards. under the initiative were Kerala Tourism’s four declaring Kumarakom a awards are the maximum that ‘plastic-free zone’, organic farming, promotion of cycling any entity has got from 26 awards at stake. as a means of transport, Launched in September 2008, the ‘Responsible Tourism’ programme of Kerala was the first such initiative by a tourism board in the country. Under the project, ordinary people of Kumarakom worked with industry representatives like hotels and resorts, tour operators, Dr. V. Venu IAS travel agents, Tourism Secretary home-stay operators and souvenir shop owners, NGOs and government agencies to protect the environment in this highprofile destination. Some of the steps taken

Scenes from Your Moment Is Waiting

ASIAN TRAVELLER

FEBRUARY 2011

ASIA PACIFIC

Macau to get re-branded

he Macau Government

efforts were in line with the

Tourist Office (MGTO) has

Macau SAR government’s plans

unveiled plans of creating a new

to turn the

slogan and promotional image

destination

this year to replace their existing

into a global

‘A World of Difference, the

centre of

Difference is Macau’ jingle. The

tourism.

new slogan and image will be followed by a promotional video and advertisement. According to a report in PATA

Joao Manual Costa Antunes Director, MGTO

India to host World Environment Day 2011

ndia will be the global host of this year’s World Environ ment Day (WED) on 5 June, during which the intrinsic link between quality of life and the health of forests and forest ecosystems will be highlighted. The theme of WED 2011 – “Forests: Nature at Your Service” – complements the focus of the UN International Year of Forests.

The MGTO has committed to

coordinate with other

website Joao Manual Costa

departments to improve tourism

Antunes, Director, MGTO, was

and world heritage resources in

quoted in a trade newspaper as

developing the new branding

having said that the NTO’s

campaign.

Hard Rock Hotel Penang was awarded “Brand Ambassador of the Year 2010” at the recent Hard Rock’s 2011 Global Conference held during the opening of Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Punta Cana. Hard Rock Hotel Penang was selected from the top “rock stars” from more than 171 Hard Rock locations in 52 countries and hundreds of partners worldwide. John Primmer, General Manager of Hard Rock Hotel Penang, received the award. The Brand Ambassador Award 2010 was presented to Hard Rock Hotel Penang based on its achievement on delivering

ASIAN TRAVELLER

FEBRUARY 2011

KERALA TRAVELLER

KTI celebrates golden jubilee

erala Travels Interserve, which is celebrating its golden jubilee, has moved to new premises. “Yaathrika”, the new building of Kerala Travels Interserve, was inaugurated by Princess Gouri Parvathi Bayi at Vellayambalam in Thiruvananthapuram. KT’s corporate Office, housed in this building, was inaugurated by Adoor Gopalakrishnan. K Jayakumar IAS, Addl. Chief Secretary, Kerala launched www.ktworld247.com, KTI’s online portal blending real-world and virtual travel solutions. Dr V Venu IAS, Secretary Tourism, inaugurated KTI’s ecological initiative, WAVE (Wetland Assessment Visual Expedition), a project that seeks to spread

awareness of Kerala’s ecological systems. KT will partner with the International League of Conservation Photographers and the Madhavan Pillai Foundation for Conservation, to visually document the wetlands of Kerala. This will include landscapes, flora and fauna, agriculture, bird life and migration, fish and other aquatic life, fishing, culture, rituals and customs, traditions etc. KT will bring it before the people of Kerala through TV shows, exhibitions and coffee-table books. Cheriyan Philip, Chairman KTDC announced the innovative space training programme for students, SauraYaathrika. This will be conducted in association with NASA and Science Centre, Singapore. The camp

Princesss Gauri Parvathi Bayi inaugurates "Yaathrika". Also present are former ambassador T P Srinivasan; Dr V Venu IAS, Director, Kerala Tourism; Adoor Gopalakrishnan, K Jayakumar IAS, Cheriyan Philip, K C Chandrahasan and Jaya Chandrahasan

will enable students to experience the zero-gravity environment that astronauts work in. The participants will be put through a curriculum modelled on astronaut training. A music CD, “Soul of Kerala”, a compilation of

original music scores created for the Kerala Travel Mart by K C Chandrahasan, Managing Director of Kerala Travels Interserve was released by Dr V Venu by handing over a copy of the CD to K Jayakumar, who happened to be the lyricist for the scores.

Setting new paradigms in travel

ne of Kerala’s first and leading travel agencies, Kerala Travels

in the state. KTI was one of the founder

travel technology management companies of the world with a

members of Interserve Travel Pvt

strong and multinational

Ltd, a consortium of travel and

portfolio of business travel

completed 50 years in service.

tourism companies working

clients. Established in 1997,

Kerala Travels (KT), the pioneers

together around the world to

Interserve today has its

in tours and travel industry in the

provide more opportunities and

presence in 30 countries globally

state was founded in 1959 by

better quality business travel

and is represented in 122

Col G. V. Raja, of the royal family

services.

locations all over India and 85

Interserve Ltd (KTI),

has

of Travancore and P.G.C. PiIlai

Craft village inaugurated

Scandinavian airlines in the

fifties in Mumbai.

inaugurated by Kodiyeri

who was working with’ the

craft village, set up at a cost of Rs. 7.20 crore has been

Balakrishnan, minister for tourism

Kerala Travels was the first tour company in the state to

recently at Vellar, near the beach

introduce many innovative ideas

resort of Kovalam. The village is

for providing the best service to

set up for procurement of locally-

its customers. From the first tour

made handicraft and other curios,

taxi, first tour packages and even

their display and sales to the

the first tourism brochure on Kerala to innovative products such as Thekkady Tiger Trail, Lullaby at Varkala and the super-

K C Chandrahasan, Managing Director,KTI; CRR Varma, Founder Director, KTI; Princess Gauri Parvathi Bayi, Chairperson,KTI; Jaya Chandrahasan Exec. Director, KTI and Geetika Sudip, Jt. Exec. Director, KTI at the press meet

India’s fastest growing travel

visitors, especially tourists. The running of the craft village has been entrusted with

locations abroad. The Managing

Kudumbashree, one of the largest

exclusive Antarctic-Arctic

brand, Interserve comprises

Director of Kerala Travels,

women-empowering projects in

expeditions, Kerala Travels has

independent and reputed travel

K C Chandrahasan currently

the country. Minister for Local

constantly redefined the

agencies tour operators, MICE

holds the post of Interserve

Self-Government Paloli

paradigms of travel and tourism

agents, cruise representatives,

Chairman.

Mohammed Kutty and George Mercier, MLA were also present.

ASIAN TRAVELLER

FEBRUARY 2011

NEWSLINE

Sanjay Kaul appointed TCGL MD

Ambica Empire wins golden star award

anjay Kaul, a Kerala cadre IAS officer of the 2001 batch, has been appointed the new Managing Director of Tourism Corporation of Gujarat Ltd (TCGL). A former Director of Kerala Tourism, Sanjay Kaul was credited with promoting tourism in Kerala in a big way.

Nepal Tourism Year off to a good start

he Nepal Tourism Year 2011

and China. Indian arrivals were up

campaign has had a good

by 36 per cent while arrivals from

start with a gain of 26.2 per cent

China registered a growth of 80

in January 2011, compared to the

per cent. Indian and Chinese

same period last year. A total of

arrivals made up 24 per cent and

32,914 tourists visited Nepal in

9.7 per cent respectively of the

issued by Starts of the Industry Group, which is a national award for

the first month of the year which

total arrivals.

the excellence in food, hospitality, services and was selected by an

is 6,843 more than the number of

Nepal has targeted the

mbica Empire in Vadapalani, Chennai a three-star business class Hotel has been recognized for the Golden star awards -

independent jury comprising of senior professionals from the

visitors came to the Himalayan

northern and the southern

hospitality and service industry. R. Kalathinathan, Ambica

country.

neighbours as major markets

Empire in Vadapalani, Chennai a three-star business class Hotel

during Nepal Tourism Year.

has been recognized for the Golden star awards - issued by

released, Nepal recorded

Projected arrivals from India and

Starts of the Industry Group. R. Kalathinathan, General Manager

significant inbound growth from

China are 265,000 and 100,000

received the award.

the major targeted markets, India

respectively.

According to the figures

ASIAN TRAVELLER

FEBRUARY 2011

KERALA TRAVELLER

Tourism gets a boost in State Budget

Kerala Tourism wins award at FITUR, Madrid

he Kerala State’s budget for

would get Rs.5 crore for starting

Centre would provide Rs.40 crore

the 2011-2012 financial

new hotels in Alappuzha and

for the project which would cost

year has made ample

Kozhikode. The Kerala Travel Mart

Rs.150 crore. Works to the tune of

provisions for tourism sector. Finance Minister T.M. Thomas

would be given

Rs.88 crore were under

Rs.1 crore.

implementation.

The idea of

Isaac has allotted Rs.105 crore for

Kerala Council for Historical

the tourism sector which he

Muziris

Research (KCHR) would get Rs.

described as the fastest growing

Heritage

two crore from the budget for the

economic sector in the State.

project was put

Pattanam Museum of the Muziris

Twelve per cent of foreign tourists

forth in his first

Project, the Education Department

budget speech

Rs.5 crore for the Kunhikuttan

after the

Thampuran College Cultural

who came to India visited Kerala. A sum of Rs.60 crore would be set

T.M. Thomas Isaac Finance Minister

apart for improving physical

present government took over. It

Centre, the Archaeology

facilities and marketing for

took two years for the idea to

Department Rs.2 crore for the

attracting private investors and

become operational due to the

renovation of forts, the Bala

tourists. To develop new tourism

novelty and uniqueness of the

Sahithya Institute Rs.1 crore for

products and to encourage private

content and approach. The new

publication of related literature,

erala Tourism won the award for the best international stand at FITUR held in Madrid, Spain. The award, which is based on the design of the stand, its ability to attract visitors, materials utilised etc. is given to the best three international stands. Colombia and Portugal are the other awardees this

the museums Rs. four crore and the Tourism Department Rs.6 crore. Administrative sanction had been given for different schemes costing Rs.27 crore for the Thalassery Heritage Project which had also been conceptualised on the lines of the Muziris Project. A sum of Rs.20 crore would be provided for the project in 201112. A sum of Rs.10 crore would be set apart for the initial activities of entrepreneurs, Rs.6.5 crore would

project had by now become a

the master plan for the Alappuzha

be provided. The Kerala Tourism

nationally and internationally

Heritage Project which was under

Development Corporation (KTDC)

recognised heritage project. The

preparation.

When the next day how a Tamil word when morning lisped becomes English. For the example, s+udden = sudden, Emperor s+naka=snake, s+methu = came on smooth etc. The same way, to see the s+annam is swan! newly In order to make the job dug pond, easier, the Emperor decreed lo and the citizens they bring a glass behold, he of milk for pouring into the saw a pond towards populating the crystal Krishna Raja Sagar Dam milk pond. The proverbial clear pond black sheep thought to them- of pure water! Everyone chose selves that just one of them to pour the one ‘isolated’ case pouring in water among the of water instead of milk! So milks of others would go much for the public contribuunnoticed and they would not tion! We usually talk about be detected. So they went ‘collective responsibility’ and ahead with their game plan. acts of this nature can be very

year. This is the fist time an Indian destination is winning this prestigious award at FITUR. Stark Communications, Thiruvananthapuram, designed the stand centred on the backwaters of Kerala.

Page 18

much called ‘collective irresponsibility’! It is our fundamental duty to preserve and nurture this earth and its beauty because it is our own habitat. Earth is always called Mother Earth

and it is our very progenitor. It was H D Thoreau who found out the beautiful connection between the word ‘saunter’ and the ‘earth’. ‘To saunter’ is to stroll leisurely and where do we do that? Only on this lovely earth which is elevated to the level of being saintly. Saunter is nothing but a contraction of Saint Terre, French for the Holy Earth! ‘It is our collective and individual responsibility to preserve and tend to the environment in which we all live.’ - Dalai Lama XIV.

ASIAN TRAVELLER

FEBRUARY 2011

KERALA TRAVELLER

‘Bring Home a Friend’ and ‘Audio Guide’ launched

odiyeri Balakrishnan,

Kerala tourism – first in India,

country. The idea is that

Minister for Tourism

these two schemes will definitely

everybody today has a cell phone,

launches ‘Bring Home a

help in the growth of Kerala

so instead of hiring an expensive

tourism.

head phone-based audio guide

Friend’ and ‘Audio Guide’ initiative of Kerala Tourism involving here

Tourism Secretary, Dr. Venu V.

about a tourist spot, you only

recently. Kodiyeri said,

need to pay for a phone call. At

“Malayalees living in

the same time, it has all the

other states and

facilities of a head phone-based

from any part of the globe 24X7.

abroad are

audio guide”.

Calls will be charged at standard

The Audio Guide is a recorded

enthusiastic about

call rates only. All the information

becoming active

spoken commentary of the major

will be available on the same

partners in the

tourist locations of Kerala to help

platform, in multiple languages,

development of Kerala

tourists have a self-guided tour of

including English, Hindi and

and ‘Bring Home a

the State. The audio tour guide

Malayalam.

Friend’ Scheme has

service by Kerala Tourism, in

been structured to

association with Mobile VAS major

IAS, KTDC Chairman Cherian

MobME Wireless Solutions, can

Phillip, Planning Board member

be availed by dialing the 10 digit

Unnikrishnan, KTDC Managing

number ‘9048755555’.

Director K.G. Mohanlal IFS, and

provide an opportunity for them to promote tourism”.

M. Sivasankar, Tourism Director, Kodiyeri Balakrishnan, Minister for Tourism, Cherian Philip, Chairman KTDC, E.M. Najeeb CMD, GITC and K.G.Mohanlal IFS, Managing Director KTDC at the launch of ‘Bring Home a Friend and Audio Guide’

The ‘Audio Guide’ is well

The minister also

Tourism Director M. Sivasankar

stakeholders in the tourism

added that anyone across the

IAS said, “Audio Guide “, is a

structured and user-friendly.The

industry were present on the

world will get information about

path-breaking initiative in the

‘Audio Guide’ can be accessed

occasion.

ASIAN TRAVELLER

FEBRUARY 2011

KERALA TRAVELLER

KTDC mulls hotels out side the state K

erala Tourism Development Corporation (KTDC), the official host of God’s Own Country, has plans to branch out to centers out side the state. The Corporation is seriously considering ‘Chennai-model’ Kerala Houses in Bangalore, Kolkatta and New Delhi. It has also plans to build hotels in Mookambika, Rameswaram and Tirupati. KTDC has approached the concerned state governments through proper channels to get land for the purpose. This was disclosed by Cherian Philip, Chairman, KTDC in Thiruvananthapuram. He was speaking at a press conference convened to tell about the last five years of KTDC. According to Cherian Philip, KTDC was in really bad shape when he took over as the Chairman. “Through concerted efforts from the part of the management and employees we are now the number one Cherian Philip tourism development corporation in India Chairman, KTDC and the top public sector unit in Kerala”. The corporation, which was registering loss five years ago, is now making operating profit of Rs.5 crore every year. The corporation had been able to repay Rs.21 crore loan also. An investment to the tune of Rs 80 crore has also been made during the period. It has now 32 hotels in the world market. KTDC has also been able to change the concept that Kerala is a rich man’s destination through its Tamarind chain of hotels. Even in its premium brand, the tariff is 30 to 40 per cent less than the market rate. According to the Chairman, KTDC has also prepared a blue-print for the next five years, with premium hotels planned in Alappuzha and Kozhikode besides properties outside the state.

people to achieve from it. Please tell us about your Hospitality sector will be family? playing an essential role in I was raised in an Iranian our life as service-provider immigrant family in and as job-creator. In addition, Germany. I have experienced with more countries passing two different cultures the magical barrier of certain oriental and occidental and I per capita income and the think the secret is to carry increase in number of most and best from both. I travellers, the demand for have two kids - an eight years business and leisure will grow old son and a three-and-a-half from year to year. year old daughter. My wife is The only challenge for us from Czech Republic. At would be to get the right home we speaks three talents and to create enough different languages based on opportunities for young situation - Czech, German and Page 16

GTK introduces packages on daily basis

roup Tours in Kerala (GTK) is

respectively. The packages are

launching a new travel

valid till 30th September 2011.

product that will be available in

Add on services to suiting the

the tourism market from March 1

needs of the customers make it an

this year. They will

open product.

be organizing daily

Accommodation for

tours covering

these packages

multiple

consists of deluxe

destinations over a

category hotels and

period of days. 3

Transportation

versions of Kerala Tour Packages

would be on a/c vehicles based

consisting of 5 nights 6 days, 6

on the group strength.

nights 7 days & 7 nights 8 days

GTK is a join venture by the

will be operated daily Ex-Kochi.

New Indian Voyages and Mystikal

These packages would cover

India, some of the reputed

the renowned destinations in

travel companies operating in

Kerala and priced at Rs.8900,

Kerala.

Rs.10900 and Rs.12900

www.grouptoursinkerala.com

Kerala voted India’s top travel-tourism destination

Kerala has been voted the top travel and tourism destination in India by a poll conducted by the Outlook Traveller magazine. Kerala’s Tourism Secretary Dr Venu V received the award from Delhi Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit at a glittering ceremony at the Hotel Claridges attended by leaders of the country’s travel and tourism industry.

English. Now we are working on the forth one - namely Hindi. Please tell us about your hobbies and other interests? I am a technology lover and I love reading about the latest developments in the field. I love sports - running and playing soccer. I am still working on my knowledge on cricket. I listen to all kinds of music and love to watch movies. I am a big fan of Bollywood. I also read a lot about trends in the world. I

also love to travel and try the food from different parts of the world, as I strongly believe that food is a bridge between the cultures and languages. Which is your favourite destination? Why? Mumbai, since I live here and India, because I have chosen to come here.

ASIAN TRAVELLER

FEBRUARY 2011

PROFILE

Hindustan Beach Retreat

Connecting beach and leisure

arkala has become a favourite destination for the international travellers seeking leisure and sun with its natural settings and uncrowded nature. Hindustan Beach Retreat is one of the popular hotels at the Varkala beach. 27 well appointed rooms here offers specAnilkumar tacular views Partner of the Arabian Sea as well as the luxury of complete solitude apart from the sounds of nature. The colour of the sunset is here is mind blowing as the entire beach to the horizon will turn orange.

ASIAN TRAVELLER

The guests can enjoy the swimming pool overlooking the blue sea with a glass of chilled juice and snacks from the poolside barbecue. Ayurvedic treatments, backwater cruises, heritage tours are also offered. The guests

FEBRUARY 2011

can relish an exotic seafood restaurant on the roof top, a multi cuisine restaurant serving Indian, Chinese and continental dishes overlooking the pool, a pool side barbecue. The roof top conference hall with sea view is an

ideal place to conduct various events with a different ambience altogether. The place has been considered holy by the Hindus as they does the rituals for departed souls. Here the mineral water springs on the beach are considered to be a natural healer for different deseases. That is how the beach got its name. Varkala is also renowned for its 2000 year old Janardhna Temple and the Sivagiri Mutt. Varkala (55 Km North of Thiruvananthapuram) is accessible by road. The place is also connected by rail to other major towns. www.hindustanbeachretreat.com

List of Advertisers No.

Advertiser

Page

No.

Advertiser

Page

AitkenSpence Hotels & Resorts

20.

Le Meridien, Cochin

Ambica Empire

21.

The Leela Palace, New Delhi

Cambay Hotels & Resorts

22.

Mir Hotels & Resorts

Carmelia Heaven Plantation Resort

23.

Muthoot Back Water Cruises

Chariot Beach Resort, Mahabalipuram

24.

Muthoot Cardamom County

Cochin Fire Tech India Pvt. Ltd.

25.

Nandhana Grand, Bengaluru

Fortune Hotels by Welcome Group

26.

Rubi Areana

Fragrant Nature Retreat & Resorts Pvt. Ltd.

27.

Rain Country Resorts / Banasura Island Retreat

Gateway Malabar Holidays

28.

Ramada Resort, Cochin

10.

Hindustan Beach Retreat

29.

Residency Group of Hotels

11.

IITM

30.

Sagara Beach Resort

12.

Intersight Tours & Travels (P) Ltd.

31.

Sun Tara Beach Resort

13.

Jungle Lodges & Resorts, Karnataka

32.

Surya Samudra Private Retreats

14.

KCTC Pvt. Ltd.

33.

Synergy Hotels & Resorts Pvt. Ltd.

15.

Kerala Tourism

34.

T & U Leisure Hotel

16.

KTDC Hotels & Resorts

35.

Tamilnadu Tourism

17.

Kuwait Airways

36.

Thomas Hotels & Resorts

18.

Lakes & Lagoons

37.

Travel Tours

19.

La Classic

38.

Travancore Court

ASIAN TRAVELLER

58 2

FEBRUARY 2011

NEWSLINE

GKSF concludes on high note

he fourth edition of Grand Kerala Shopping Festival (GKSF) 2010 which began from Dec 1, 2010 concluded on a high note on Jan 15, 2011. The event gave a big leap for the trade and commerce in Kerala, has evoked tremendous response all over the State. KTDC Chairman Cherian Philip pointed out that the ongoing Grand Kerala Shopping Festival (GKSF) season four is a big boost to trade tourism in the State. GKSF Director, K N Satheesh, has termed the shopping extravaganza a huge

ASIAN TRAVELLER

success, judging the overall boost it has given to the trade sector in the state. He further added that the government was expecting an increased sale of Rs 1000 crore this year when compared to the GKSF third edition. The first prize of one kg of gold was given to three winners each. Six winners each gets the second prize of half-akg of gold. More than 5,400 traders, including major shopping malls across the State, took part in the fourth edition of the festival being organised by the Tourism Department to promote trade and tourism.

FEBRUARY 2011

La Classic inaugurated

La Classic, a four-star luxury hotel at Attibelle, Bengaluru has started operations on January 17, 2011. K.H. Muniyappa, Minister Of State For Railways; A Narayanaswamy, Social welfare Minister, Karnataka; Siddaramaiah, Leader of Opposition, Karnataka Assembly; D.K. Shiv Kumar, Working President KPCC & MLA; Ambarish, Kannada Film Star; Deshpande, Ex. KPCC President, Karnataka; Ramalinga Reddy, MLA; H.M.Revanna, Ex. Minister Karnataka and Dayananda Reddy, MLC were among the dignitaries who were present on the occasion

VARIETY

AVIAREPS-India, a fully owned subsidiary of AVIAREPS AG (the world's largest aviation and tourism representation company) headquartered in Munich-Germany, has appointed Jatin Hatkar as its Marketing Manager in India.

Jagdish B Nair, has joined Isola Di Cocco Beach Resort, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala as Vice President.

Marco Seiler has been appointed General Manager at the Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel Hyderabad, Banjara Hills, Hyderabad, India.

How is Richard Starkey more popularly known as?

Where is the headquarters of the sportswear company Fila?

Who is credited with the highest number of Oscar nominations?

What is common between the date calendars of the years 2005 and 2011?

When is World Photography Day celebrated?

The buttercup flower is also known as ranunculus. What does it mean?

Which airline’s Frequent Flyer Program is called ‘Sindbad’ and why? 8. ‘Trud’ is one of Russia’s largest circulated newspapers. What does it mean?

Martin Fabiano has been appointed General Manager at the Park Plaza Bangkok Soi 18, Bangok in Thailand.

Veronique Sirault has been appointed General Manager at the Park Plaza Sukhumvit Hotel Bangkok in Thailand.

John Vargheese has been promoted to the post of Director (Sales & Marketing) at Le Meridien in Kochi, Kerala.

9. Kim is a popular surname in Korea. What does it mean in Korean? 10. Which is the world’s largest fashion magazine?

Compiled by DEEKAY

Send in your answers to info@mediastepsindia.com with TYKC 41 in the the subject line. Answers should reach us before the 30th of this month. Answers to TYKC 40

FEBRUARY 2011 Nagaur Fair, Rajasthan, India

10-13

IITM, Kochi, India

11-13

1. Gorira (gorilla) + Kujira (whale) 2. Takin, the goat-antelope 3. Grenada 4. The Michelin Man 5. Lanai in Hawaii 6. Black with white stripes (remember the sequence of B&W) 7. Pizza in a cone 8. Olga Korbut, the gymnast 9. Hans Wilsdorf (1905) 10. German

AIME, Melbourne, Australia

15-16

prisoner of war camp ( short for Stamm+Lager = Base Camp)

Taj Mahotsav, Agra, India

18-27

Desert Festival, Jaisalmer, India

16-18

BIT, Milan, Italy

17-20

MARCH 2011 Goa Carnival, Goa

5-8

Global Tourism Forum, Andorra

6-7

ITB Berlin

TYKC 40

ROSANNA MARGARITTA BOGLE Montreal Lake, Canada

One all-correct entry will get

9-13

Free Stay at Le-Meridien, Kochi

MITT Moscow

16-19

[ 2 nights and 3 days for two ]*

Asia Pacific Business Outlook 2011, Melbourne, Australia

17-18

Elephant Festival, Jaipur, Rajasthan TUR Gothenburg, Sweden

19 24-27

National Seminar on “Emerging Trends in Hospitality & Tourism” Rohtak, India GIBTM, ADNEC, UAE

28-30

Nestled amongst 25 acres of coconut groves and backwater rivers, Le Méridien Cochin Resort & Convention Centre sits at the heart of one of India's most naturally beautiful cities, Kochi. This prestigious landmark houses 5 floors of luxurious accommodation for international business and leisure travelers. The 151 spacious rooms and suites, most with breathtaking views over the manicured gardens and the backwaters. * Conditions apply

ASIAN TRAVELLER

FEBRUARY 2011