Vol. 3 • No. 10 • July 2010
Inside 6
this issue
Global Travel Industr y to Experience Multi-Speed Recover y
20 Beaches of Tamil Nadu
The global travel and tourism industry will experience a “multispeed” recovery but take up to a further four years to fully recover to the pre-global downturn levels, says a report published at the World Travel Market (WTM) Vision Conference held in London.
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Asia Emerges as the New Luxur y Travel Destination
Asia, the most happening region in the world tourism map, has added one more feather to its cap. According to the findings based on a new initiative that was launched by ALTM (Asia Luxury Travel Market), Asia has emerged as a luxury travel powerhouse.
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21 Yakshagana
India ‘Cheapest Long-Haul Destination
According to the new ‘cost of living survey’ results released by Thomas Cook, India is the cheapest long-haul destination to visit, with total daily expenses coming in at approximately 26 USD.
12 Thailand Mulls Broad Range of Tourism Recover y Strategies High-level discussions are underway across all sectors of the Thai travel and tourism industry to facilitate a quick recovery from the political unrest that led to significant declines in visitor arrivals in April and May 2010.
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Face to Face
India Tourism Shows Upward Trend
20 Conser vation of Natural Resources the Focal Point of TN Tourism Policy
ANJU CHANDRASEKHAR
p 16 10 Questions
Woman of the Month
21 Karnataka Tourism Gets a Fillip at Global Investors’ Meet 26 Puri Rath Yatra Festival Begins on July 13 27 Treading the Murk y Waters
VINI GUPTA
ASHA SUBRAMANIAN
p 10
p 14
Cover Photo Courtesy: Dominican Republic
JULY 2010
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ASIAN TRAVELLER
editor ’s note
A Editor & Publisher Group Editor Vice President & CEO Executive Editor Photo Editor Art Editor Senior Sub Editor Editorial Team
omeone said, half jokingly though, that one can prefix the word tourism with any adjective and you will get a new tourism product. A second look at that statement and you will find that it is not just a joke. Medical tourism, Village tourism, Cultural tourism, Sustainable tourism and Wildlife tourism are some of the popular types of tourism we encounter quite often. Niche areas have developed quick and fast. Now there are Atomic tourism (in which the tourists travel to significant sites in atomic history which were involved with either atomic explosions or the vehicles that transport them), Bookstore tourism (that promotes independent bookstores as a group travel destination), Dark tourism (involving travel to sites associated with death and suffering), Halal tourism (which provides holiday destinations for Muslim families who abide by Sharia rules where they do not serve alcohol and have separate swimming pools and spa facilities for men and women) and Extreme tourism (which involve travelling to dangerous places like mountains, jungles, deserts, caves, etc. or participation in dangerous events) to name few. Sports tourism is another niche area which has evolved in recent years and is doing well. The ongoing 2010 FIFA World Cup Football tournament in South Africa is estimated to draw hundreds of thousands of football enthusiasts from allover the world. Besides attracting visitors, holding such events contribute to the development of world class infrastructure facilities which are essential for growth in the tourism front. With the international media coverage, host nations get a chance to showcase them to the world and thus attract more visitors. Come October and New Delhi will play host to Common Wealth Games. London is gearing up for “the greatest show on planet Earth”, the Olympic Games, in another year’s time. These mega events will witness the movement of thousands and thousands of people, which the tourism industry is hoping to benefit from. More over Sports and Tourism figure prominently among the means by which United Nations aim to achieve its Millennium Development Goals. Niche tourism or specialty tourism can play a significant role in helping tourism industry which is yet to recover from the recession-induced decline in mass tourism.
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G. BIJU KRISHNAN Editor & Publisher editor@mediastepsindia.com
Publication : : : : : : : :
G. Biju Krishnan G. Gopakumar* M. P. Sreekumar Lerbin T. K. Retheesh Kariyam Biju P. Kurup Krishnadas P. R. Parameswaran Lekshmi P. Smitha R. Director (Marketing) : Vinu V. Nair Director (Finance) : K. Harikrishnan Legal Advisor : Adv. G.S. Prakash Financial Advisor : Jayachandran S. Regional Head-North : V. Narayanan Sr.Mgr. Tamilnadu : P. Deenadayalu Sr.Mgr. Marketing : Shaini B. J. KSA Sam Mathew, Tel: 00966-505150513 London Abdul Najeeb, Tel: 0044-7769940391 UAE Sanjeev S. L., Tel: 00971 508914709 Kuwait Mariam Titus, Tel: 00965 6638670 New Delhi V. Narayanan, Tel: 0091 9810116780 Mumbai Mahesh Nair, Tel: 022 32499989 Bangalore Sandeep Viswanath, 09845179243 Chennai Nisha J., Tel: 09841008588 Hyderabad K.S. Johnson, Tel: 09441236010 Indore Manohar Bhati, Tel: 09893559563 Madurai P. Deenadayalu, Tel: 09843129535 Ernakulam M. P. Sreekumar, Tel: 09447118694 Thiruvananthapuram Shaini B. J., Tel: 09745444144 Administration Jaya Rajeshwari, Soniya S., Vidhu Krishna, Sunil All communications to: Media Steps India, TC-27/1741, PERA-66, Vanchiyoor PO, Thiruvananthapuram–695 035, Kerala State, South India. Tel: +91-471-6540888, 2574411, 09447 555 222 info@mediastepsindia.com, w w w.mediastepsindia.com Regd. Of fice: Media Steps India, TC-27/1915, MBRRA 70, Mathrubhoomi Rd., Thiruvananthapuram–695 001, Kerala State, South India. Mumbai Of fice: Media Steps India, Unit 9 & 10, Sardar Pratap Singh Industrial Estate No. 2, LBS Marg, Bhandup West, Mumbai-400078, India Tel.: +91 22 32499989 Hyderabad Office: Media Steps India, # B-305 & 309, Vasudha Apartments, Quthbullapur Road, New Jeedimetla, Hyderabad-500 055, AP, India Tel.: +91 40 23080750, +91 40 23176966, +91 40 23176996, Fax: +91 40 27535260 Chennai Of fice: Media Steps India, 6/4, Sangeetha Gardens, 19th Street Ex t, Jai Nagar, Arumbakkam, Chennai - 600 106. Tel: +91 44 42640531 Edited, Printed & Published by G. Biju Krishnan and Printed at M/s. Safire Of fset Printers, Sivakasi, Tamil Nadu for Cristal Printers, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala State, South India. Reg No.: KERENG 01910/11/1/2006-TC New Reg No.: KERENG / 2007 / 28719 RNI Reg. No.: 101276 The news items and Adver tisements published herein have been collected from various source, which are considered to be reliable. Readers are however requested to verif y the facts before making business decisions using the same. No par t of this magazine may be reproduced without the written permission from the Publisher. All rights reser ved. Copyright © 2009 *Responsible for selection of news under the PRB Act
ASIAN TRAVELLER
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JULY 2010
over view
Global Travel Industr y to Experience Multi-Speed Recover y he global travel and tourism industry will experience a “multispeed” recovery but take up to a further four years to fully recover to the preglobal downturn levels, says a report published at the World Travel Market (WTM) Vision Conference held in London. According to Euromonitor International’s forecast update, ‘Recovery In Sight?’, the global travel and tourism industry will experience a “multi-speed” recovery kick started by the developing economies, as high unemployment and debt in developed countries
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holds back their growth. Global international arrivals will not recover to pre-crisis 2008 levels until 2012, while incoming tourism receipts will not recover until 2013. Furthermore, the hotels sector will not fully recover to 2008 levels until 2014. The recovery is lead by Asia with China and India projecting economic growth of 8-10 percent in both 2010 and 2011. This compares to projections for the strongest western economy, Canada, of 3-4 percent for the same period. The Middle East and Africa were the only
inbound regions to show arrivals growth during 2009, while Asia-Pacific is expected to show strong growth in 2010. Europe’s high unemployment and mounting debt problems are holding back the continent’s travel industry growth. “As the global travel industry begins its slow road to recovery, dark clouds continue to hang over Europe as the region is expected to be one of the last to recover along with North America,” said Caroline Bremner, head of Travel and Tourism Research for Euromonitor.
The hotels sector has suffered the most with heavy discounting during the global downturn, meaning the sector will not recover to pre-2008 crisis levels until 2014. Asia is again driving force behind the hotels recovery, due to the continued expansion of international and local chains. World Travel Market chairman Fiona Jeffery said, “Hotels dropped their rates to respond to the financial concerns of consumers and as a result will struggle to increase their prices to more sustainable levels as the global economy recovers.”
India Tourism Shows T Upward Trend
he data released by the Indian Ministry of Tourism, tourist arrivals to the country has began to grow again in early 2010, af ter declining by six per cent in 2009. In the first quarter of 2010, visitor arrivals reached 1.5mn, up by 12.8 per cent compared to the same period the previous year. This continues a trend of high grow th that began in late 2009, when arrivals in December increased by 21.0 per cent, rebounding from a particularly poor performance in December 2008. Industry watchers observe that “it is highly positive that India has maintained strong levels of visitor grow th in 2010, indicating that the industry recovery is well underway. This will have positive implications for domestic companies in terms of earnings, with foreign earnings from tourism having surged above levels of arrivals grow th”. India is beginning to return to its pre-2008 grow th trends, with the Commonwealth Games in October 2010 providing a further boost to the recovering tourism sector, says the experts.
JULY 2010
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ASIAN TRAVELLER
over view
Asia Emerges as the New Luxur y Travel Destination sia, the most happening region in the world tourism map, has added one more feather to its cap. According to the findings based on a new initiative that was launched by ALTM (Asia
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trends survey that was carried out in a joint collaboration between ALTM and TTG Asia over a period of two months in first quarter of 2010 were announced at the pre-show conference in Shanghai,
Luxury Travel Market), Asia has emerged as a luxury travel powerhouse. The increase in consumer confidence and the spending power of Asian elite which is reaching new heights has been the main factors that have contributed to this. The results of a unique
China recently. The survey highlighted preferred destinations, frequency of travel, annual spending, domestic versus international and the buyersupplier relationship. It also showed the effects of last year on the choices of high net worth individuals when
planning their leisure time, how the industry might react to potential influences of change, whether ‘luxury travel brands’ are well placed to entice the region’s wealthy and what these trends could reveal about the habits of
Asia. Luxury travel buyers and agents have seen considerable improvements in their business this year, with 94 per cent of them expecting an increase in luxury travel within the Asia Pacific region, particularly to China, Thailand, Singapore, Hong Kong and Australia. Luxury travel operators and suppliers have also seen considerable improvements this year, with 60 per cent experiencing an increase in luxury bookings in first quarter of this year. Furthermore, 88 per cent expect the Asia Pacific luxury travel market to grow this elite group of travellers significantly within the next in the future. The results of 12 months. Travel trends this survey show how seem to be changing as well, majority of luxury travel with travellers putting more professionals throughout the emphasis on unique region have already seen an destinations and bespoke increase in business in 2010 experience and the majority and almost all of them of operators growing and expect a significant increase changing their offerings to in the luxury travel market in cater to this need.
India Cheapest Long-Haul Destination
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ccording to the new ‘cost of living survey’ results released by Thomas Cook, India is the cheapest long-haul destination to visit, with total daily expenses coming in at approximately 26 USD. India was also named as the best-value destination overall, with the travel operator pointing out that a beer in the country costs just a lit tle over one USD. Costs have dropped in a number of locations, including mainland Spain, the Canaries and Balearic Islands. The ever-popular Egypt and eastern med favourite, Turkey, continue to be great value for money mid haul destinations. “The cost of everyday essentials have gone down in many resorts so those looking to enjoy themselves on excursions and evening entertainment will be able to do exactly that”, said Ian Derbyshire, Chief Executive, Thomas Cook UK & Ireland.
JULY 2010
Top Seven Short and Medium Haul Destinations 1. Morocco 2. Egypt 3. Mainland Spain 4. Turkey 5. Canary Islands 6. Tunisia 7. Balearic Islands
Top Seven Long Haul Destinations 1. India 2. Cuba 3. Malaysia 4. Mexico 5. South Africa 6. Canada 7. USA
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ASIAN TRAVELLER
personality
Vini Gupta started his hoteliering career in US more than three decades ago and worked in different capacities in different parts of the country before moving to India and then to Nepal.
VINI GUPTA General Manager Soaltee Crowne Plaza Kathmandu Nepal
JULY 2010
Tell us about your hotel and its USPs. Soaltee Crowne Plaza Kathmandu is managed and owned brand par t of InterContinental Hotels Group, IHG PLC. It is an upscale brand with a resort atmosphere of fering the high level of comfor t, service and amenities. The hotel is strategically located from the city centre and sightseeing options and of fers 282 beautifully appointed Deluxe, Crowne Plaza Club rooms, eight Executive Suites and seven Regal Suites. The Regal Suites have accommodated numerous Head of States and other dignitaries including the President of United States of America Jimmy Car ter, Queen Elizabeth, Princess Diana, First Lady Hillary Clinton, Premier Mori of Japan, the Prime Minister of China, Kofi Annan, Steven Seagal, The President of Sri Lanka and Yousaf Raza Gillani, Prime Minister of Pakistan. The Soaltee Crowne Plaza Kathmandu has been the of ficial hospitality partner for the SA ARC summit in 1987 and 2002. How do you position the Hotel in the market? What is your marketing strategy? Soaltee Crowne Plaza Kathmandu is positioned as a premium five-star deluxe hotel in Nepal catering to high end groups, conferences and state visits of visiting dignitaries. Our marketing strategy is to maintain our premium business mix by having consistent product and service standards and achieve benchmark against highest standards within InterContinental Hotels Group. We attend global trade shows and sales visits to at tract customers from high paying markets that spend the dollars. How impor tant is a Hotel in developing a destination? What has your company done in this regard? Nepal has been a tough destination lately due to the uncertain political conditions.
Hence a special marketing strategy for selling Nepal as a destination was envisaged by our company. We also take part in all initiatives taken by Nepal Tourism Board to promote tourism like Nepal Tourism Year 2011 and others. The Soaltee Crowne Plaza Katmandu has taken an active role in supporting the PATA - Adventure Tourism & Responsible Tourism Mart in 2009 and also for 2010 where the venue is Nepal. Could you tell us about your background and how did you come to the industry? I moved to USA at a young age and did my high school and college education there. While in college, I needed a job to support myself and so I joined a Hotel in Chicago as Room Service Waiter. This was my first exposure to the hotel industry which I liked and later decided to stay. While continuing to work at the same hotel, I finished my business school and seven years later I became the General Manager of the same hotel - "The Howard Johnson Hotel", Lake Shore Drive in Chicago. I am an accredited CHA (Certified Hotel Administrator), by the American Hotel and Lodging Association in USA. Prior to joining the Soaltee Crowne Plaza, I was the Regional Director of Operations for Prism Hotels Group, where I handled a por tfolio of eight hotels in the Nor theast USA and worked closely with the local management team of each hotel to implement brand standards and systems. In 2005-06, I was Vice President of Operations for Bharat Hotels Ltd in India, overseeing a port folio of seven 5Star hotels, including the three InterContinental Hotels in Delhi, Mumbai and Goa. I have also worked with a few Holiday Inn Hotels in USA, namely Holiday Inn at the International O'Hare airport in Chicago, Holiday Inn Dallas in Texas and Holiday Inn Resort at Clearwater Beach, Florida. I have successfully opened three brand new Hotels and have done major refurbishments at various other hotels. During my 25 years of Hotel Industry experience in the USA, I
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have also worked as General Manager at the Hilton Hotels in Huntsville, Alabama and Melbourne, Florida and worked for Radisson Hotels for 12 years in four dif ferent cities as General Manager and Hyatt Hotels in three dif ferent cities in USA. Tell us about your experience so far? Is there an unforget table moment in your career which you can share with us? All my hotels in the USA, I had the pleasure and the honor to work closely with the local VIP's, the who is who within the community. Whenever a very high profile dignitary came to the city my hotel had the privilege and honor to host them. Some of these VIP's included the presidents of the USA, George HW Bush, Gerald Ford and so many Governors and Senators of dif ferent States. The most memorable moment for me was, when I was invited to have dinner with both President George HW Bush, his wife and First Lady Barabara Bush and their family in their suite, while they were staying at my hotel. It was a true honor and privilege to be able to spend three hours, as close and so personal with the President of the USA. What Plans - immediate and long term - do you have? My immediate plans are to start the process for a major renovation at the hotel. Half of the rooms in the Princep wing have already been done and the rest of this wing should finish by the end of August 2010. We have started planning for the renovations of Cof fee Shop, Rodi Bar, Lobby and common areas of the hotel and also to implement the true Crowne Plaza IHG standards at this hotel. Where would you like to see yourself, say, 10 years from now? Once the Soaltee Crowne Plaza Kathmandu is all set, I would like to see myself in a Regional Operations role in Indo-China or India, within IHG. Right now my focus and commitment is to do the job at hand. Once this job is completed and the hotel is on a stabilized footing, then I will think and focus on my future plans. Contd. on page 26
ASIAN TRAVELLER
newsline
Tourism Industr y’s Commitment to Stop Child Sex Tourism Applauded nited Nation’s International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF) has applauded the South African tourism and hospitality industry for its significant commitment to put an end to child sex tourism, as top industry leaders signed the Tourism Child Protection Code of Conduct aimed at protecting
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children and to leaving an enduring legacy of good practice beyond the FIFA World Cup which takes place in South Africa. “The contribution of the travel and tourism industry is vital to help stamp out child sexual exploitation,” said UNICEF Representative Aida Girma. South Africa has enacted legislation that strengthens
the criminalisation of the use of children in prostitution and has put measures in place to strengthen their protection during the World Cup period. While child sex tourism is not strongly associated with South Africa as a tourist destination, high poverty levels and growing inequality suggest that tens of
thousands of children in the country are at risk of sexual and other forms of exploitation. Domestic as well as foreign tourists may knowingly or unknowingly become involved in child exploitation, for example by transacting sex with an underage sex worker or buying goods from a trader exploiting child labour.
Australia Toughens Laws on Sex Tourism
ASEAN Nations Eyes NE India for Tourism Investment
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mbassadors of various ASEAN (Association of South East Asian Nations) countries in India will shortly visit North Eastern states of India to explore the possibilities of investments in fields of tourism and
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and Myanmar in New Delhi recently. As per the Ministry communiqué, the visit will be in two phases. In the first phase, the Ambassadors will visit three states in North East region i.e. Mizoram, Manipur, and Tripura. Visits
trade in these states. The visit will be at the behest of the Ministry for the Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER), Government of India. A decision in this regard was taken recently at a meeting between B K Handique, Minister for Mines and DoNER with the Ambassadors of Thailand
to Sikkim, Nagaland, and Arunachal will be part of the second stage. The visit of the Ambassadors has been organised as part of the ‘Look East Policy’ of Government of India, and also as part of the wider initiative to realise the goals of Vision 2020 for the comprehensive development of North East region.
ustralia has launched an advertising campaign to accompany tough new laws on sex tourism. Advertisements have been placed in national newspapers that warn offenders that they could be
prosecuted in Australia even if their crimes are committed elsewhere. The measures include jail terms of up to 25 years for Australians found guilty of sex crimes against children in foreign countries.
Brazilian Tourism Promotion Launched in South Africa razil, host country of the next FIFA World Cup, opened a 3,000-square-meter exhibition space in South Africa Tuesday to promote the country’s tourism. The Casa Brasil, or Brazil House, located in an upmarket neighborhood in Johannesburg, will provide promotional information about the 12 cities which will host the World Cup in 2014. It also features an exposition on soccer. The initiative, which cost USD5.58 million, aims to attract investors to Brazil and promote the country’s tourism in the next few years. Tourism Minister Luiz Barretto said the World Cup would increase the number of foreign tourists from the current five million to eight million in 2014. To receive more tourists, Brazil would have to improve its tourism infrastructure, including hotels and airports. The country’s economic development would make it easier to make the improvements, he said.
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ASIAN TRAVELLER
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JULY 2010
thailand traveller
Thailand Mulls Broad Range of Tourism Recovery Strategies
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igh-level discussions are underway across all sectors of the Thai travel and tourism industry to facilitate a quick recovery from the political unrest that led to significant declines in visitor arrivals in April and May 2010. A range of strategies, activities and projects are being discussed among the private and public sectors as well as in cooperation with government agencies responsible for other economic sectors, which were also af fected. The Royal Thai Government has given full support to a quick recovery of the Thai travel and tourism industry in recognition of its importance to the national economy as well as the fact that it was the worst af fected of all business sectors. At the moment, private sector associations are busy availing the financial assistance measures being prepared by the government to help businesses, especially the small and medium sized enterprises, which were af fected directly by the conflict. These include straight cash hand-outs, extension of low-interest loans, etc, which are mainly designed to ensure that businesses remain solvent and do not layof f staf f. The proposed tourism recovery packages have to be carefully planned to ensure the most ef fective returns on invest-
ment, especially in view of the fact that Thai tourism is now in the low season, when the traditional sources of visitor arrivals become substantially dif ferent from those in the high season. Arrivals from Asia and the Middle East become far more impor tant in this period than those from Europe and Nor th America. In the immediate term, ma ximum ef fort is being directed towards reviving the domestic market, which has proved to be a significant saving grace and source of quick business in facilitating recovery from past crises; such as, the downturn caused by the global financial turmoil in 2008-09. Under the overall goal of rebuilding confidence in the Thai tourism industry, TAT is planning to make bet ter use of online channels and social media, work in tandem with the private sector to launch special packages and promotions, and maintain a focus on shor t-haul markets like China, Hong Kong, Japan, South Korea and Taiwan. A number of short-term tactical measures are being planned; such as, website competitions, travel awards, lucky draws, and special of fers targeted at specific customer segments in the vast databases of credit card companies. The traditional marketing themes, such as “Amazing Thailand” will remain unchanged as will the core
message that Thailand remains an excellent value-for-money destination. The many special of fers now set to be launched across the board will only reinforce this core message. TAT will also maintain its focus on the country’s long-standing tourism strengths such as, Thai hospitality, Thainess, culture and the environment.
This can be done by working in cooperation with the Gulf carriers like Emirates, Etihad, Qatar Airways, and Gulf Air. Other new markets showing considerable promise are Iran, Turkey, and Israel. All of these can be developed by improving flows of information, facilitating visa processing times, doing joint marketing with airlines,
More heav y-duty marketing campaigns and stepped up fam trips for travel agents, media, and MICE events organisers will be deferred until the end of the year. TAT also sees this as an opportunity to expand its presence into new markets with future potential; such as, the Central Asian Republics, North African countries, and the Middle East.
and organising Thailand product seminars and road shows. Thai tourism industry leaders are confident that the global and local political and economic situation will remain stable over the nex t few months, and that the rebound should be in the second half of the third quarter. This will help meet the revised target of arrivals for the year.
PATA Renews Call for Campaign to Restore International Confidence
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ATA has renewed the call for a ‘Thailand tourism recovery campaign’ that seeks to rebuild international consumer confidence in Thailand as “a destination that already of fers tremendous value”. “We prefer to see an image building campaign, rather than a strategy based on product discounting. We are also advising hotels to add value to room rates by including free wi-fi, breakfast etc, rather than simply slash prices,” says PATA CEO Greg Duf fell. “Until tour operators have the confidence to send their
JULY 2010
clients to Thailand, and tourists and business travellers feel confident that they will enjoy an uninterrupted trip, price cutting alone will not bring back the numbers,” he adds. PATA, working in tandem with the PATA Thailand Chapter and its broadly-based membership, continues to advise the Tourism Authority of Thailand on recovery strategies and has also met today (Wednesday 2 June) with the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration to discuss issues af fecting the capital city.
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Thailand Waives Single Entr y Visa Fee
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he Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) has announced the single-entry tourist visa fee will be waived until March, 2011. This is part of an effort to boost tourism to Thailand and, according to the MFA website, will valid for “all foreigners who apply for Tourist Visas at the Royal Thai Embassies and the Royal Thai Consulates-General worldwide” and will include eligible foreigners who apply for Visa on Arrival as well. ASIAN TRAVELLER
middle east
Dubai Reinforces MICE Status
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he Dubai Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM) has underlined its status as a leading regional destination for MICE at the IMEX 2010 worldwide exhibition for MICE held recently in Frankfur t, Germany. IMEX 2010 had about 3,500 exhibitors from 150 countries and
representatives from more than 3,800 international travel agencies specializing in the MICE business. The DTCM received an over whelming response from potential exhibitors and event organizers. Dubai's MICE sector per formed
ASIAN TRAVELLER
impressively in 2009, with the Dubai World Trade Centre receiving 1.24 million exhibition and conference visitors to post a 12% increase over 2008. "The solid representation of Dubai's tourism sector during the exhibition underlines the importance of Germany's MICE market for Dubai. Through DTCM's participation and the cooperation of its partners as well as the Dubai Convention Bureau we were able to provide comprehensive information on the emirate's MICE sector and new projects related to this field. The overwhelming number of enquiries we received from potential exhibitors and organisers who were keen on capitalizing on Dubai's stature as a leading MICE destination was highly encouraging," said Hamad Bin Mohammed Bin Mejren, Executive Director of Business Tourism.
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DTCM Develops New Rental System for Self Catering Hotel Units
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he Dubai Depar tment of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM) has developed a new rental system for self catering hotel units, which will be put into service later this year. The new system involves the leasing of furnished residential units in specific areas and locations according to certain conditions and criteria issued by the Department. These residential units will be managed by cer tified companies that operate in compliance with specific terms and conditions issued by the Depar tment. The new system of fers several advantages including providing a new type of residential unit that can add value to the local hotel sector, in accordance with specific standards, guidelines, and safety and security procedures. This system will play a vital role in organising the framework for residential units in the rental market, to ensure regulated and legal operations.
JULY 2010
personality
Asha Subramanian is a seasoned professional, with nearly two decades experience in her chosen field
ASHA SUBRAMANIAN Sales Manager - South Kerala Emirates
JULY 2010
How did you become interested in Travel & Tourism business? My joining the Travel and Aviation Industry was not planned in the strict sense .As a child, I was keen in learning and knowing about dif ferent cultures, countries and people. The entire world of travel was fascinating and held me in great awe. Being an ex trovert, I like meeting and interacting with people from dif ferent walks of life and this industry is a natural plat form to do so. Soon af ter my graduation from Bangalore (which is my home town), I moved to Thiruvananthapuram where my spouse is based. I started my career in the sector in1992 with Air Travel Enterprises Ltd as Assistant Manager - Sales where I did a three year stint. I then moved on to Spencer's Travel Ser vices Ltd (who were then the
GSA for airlines like Air Lanka, Cathay Pacific, KLM, Air Maldives etc) as Area Sales Manager-Kerala and worked there for five years. In 2000, I joined Sri Lankan Airlines and was employed there as District Sales Manager for nearly nine years. Now I am with Emirates, the Dubai-based international airline, in the capacity of Sales Manager South Kerala since 2008. Joining Emirates was a dream-come-true for me as this is an airline I admire and have keenly followed their success story since the time I star ted my career.
What is your current role in your organization? I am the Sales Manager for Emirates in Thiruvananthapuram and responsible for all the commercial functions in the region of South Kerala. Emirates currently operates 12 weekly flights on the DubaiThiruvananthapuram - Dubai sector with A 330 operations. What are your plans? As far as Emirates is concerned, we are an airline striving to improve customer experience through constant product innovation and quality. The airline is poised to become the crossroad between the Geographic West and the East through our multi-cultural and cosmopolitan hub at DXB. In India, Emirates intends to empower the Indian customer with the most flexible and value-added options to travel anywhere in the world on our net work spanning 100+ destinations spread across six continents. We are launching/have launched six new routes this year - Tokyo, Amsterdam, Medina, Prague, Madrid and Dakar. On the personal front, this industry is my passion. I am proud and privileged to see myself growing with the airline I represent, enjoying higher responsibilities and greater challenges. My mot to is simple - Do what you love and love what you do. As an airline industry professional what is your ambition? Where would you like to see yourself ten years from now? I wish to continue to grow our market share and revenues in the region I handle. We are a superb product and one of the finest airlines and there is so much new to do and learn everyday. As an industry professional, I would like to continue contributing positively to the grow th of the airline industry in India. Who or what has been the greatest influence in your professional life?
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My family, friends, colleagues have all contributed in some way or the other. Spirituality is a major influence in my life and gives me the grit and determination to face even the most dif ficult situations. My sense of humor also helps me to stay balanced. As woman, what were the challenges you had to face in your professional life? In my experience, challenges in professional life are immaterial of one's gender. What matters most is your competency and ability to deliver and per form. Sof t skills are equally important as we are in a 'people' industry. My advice to budding youngsters entering the industry is to perform their tasks with passion and dedication and have a 'never say die' approach. Each challenge in life makes you grow and improve as a person and as a professional. Hence, do not get discouraged by setbacks as this is a part of the learning process. Stay motivated and update your knowledge and skills regularly. What is the secret of your success? Like I said, passion, conviction, right at titude and dedication in every thing I do. Whatever be the task, (whether big or small) I give it my best. Sincerity, hard (smart) work and commitment pay! What is your proudest moment (till date) in your job? Each day is new and dif ferent and makes my job stimulating and interesting. There are quite a few proud moments I have had in my job. Now tell us about your family. My spouse Subramanian is an engineer and a business entrepreneur in the field of electronic security. My son Ram is a Mechanical Engineer in the making and has been campus placed with an MNC. He aspires to study Business Management in due course. My mother lives in Bangalore and my father is no more. I have four siblings - one brother and three sisters who are well set tled. What are your hobbies? Listening to music, reading and travelling. I am a trained classical Musician though now out of form and touch!
ASIAN TRAVELLER
face to face
We Plan to Establish ‘Surya Samudra’ Brand in Five to Ten Years Surya Samudra, one of the well-known names among the leisure and nature retreats in Kerala is re-emerging after a long and core renovation. The boutique luxury resort with the premier spa brand is also adding more properties to its collection in various exotic tourist spots like Kumarakom, Wayanad, Puducherry, Chikmagalur and Goa. The tranquility and serenity being the prime attraction, the Resort has left no stones unturned to provide the maximum to the guests. Anju Chandrasekhar, Managing Director of Surya Samudra Beach Resort spoke to Asian Traveller about her plans to build the brand ‘Surya Samudra’ and other initiatives . Excerpts: months. From July, this year we hope to be open and fully functional for 12 months. Our clientele will be pushed to a wider base to what we had before, like Europeans. We don’t have a fixed clientele. The marketing strategy is based on the uniqueness of the place. We are not doing any large marketing blitz. We would like to work with the travel agents because it is a small hotel. It is a 22 room On USP I believe we have a wonderful and matchless geographic location where our property stands. So we have an existing USP. The traditional cottages we have here were transplanted from their original locations and are not newly built or given makeover. We have been renovating and bringing up the comfort standards, for the last one and a half years. We have a fully professional management team for running the resort. On Future Plans The future plans for Surya Samudra include some more resorts. We are starting a small resort at Chikmagalur. It is an old JULY 2010
four bedroom English villa which is being converted. The property at Kumarakom is coming up with 25 cottages and its construction is underway. We are looking at Goa and we plan to bring up a high end property there in 30 acres of land. What we are aiming is to take the advantage of being a boutique luxury resort and make every property different. Our ambition is to build and establish the brand name “Surya Samudra’ by the next five to ten years. On Marketing Strategy We want the domestic customers to come and enjoy the property. It is not going to be like old times when you are closed for three
property and it is not like selling a property with 170 rooms. My team will talk to the people and sell it directly. We have representations domestically as well as in Europe and England to look after those markets. We have always tried to control the gatherings here as we do not allow more than twenty people in the day-packages at a time because our customers wouldn’t like to lose the ambience. I definitely feel we need domestic customers as we can’t rely fully on the
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inbound traffic which we are hoping to tap from now on in the lean season. The domestic travellers won’t come back as much as the inbound travellers do. So we are starting to work on improving the domestic season. This is our first domestic season and now we are doing our marketing mostly in Delhi. We are back in the market and it is only through the word of mouth it will spread. We have already attended the last World Travel Market (WTM) in London. Once we have all our properties up it is worth taking a stall in these big events. So our marketing will be mainly by marts, road shows and directly to the travel agents. Our website is coming up and will be launched by the end of July with facilities like the payment gateways. We will make sure that it is customer friendly and we could give them the concept of the property. One can see the picture of the property and know what the rooms are like. Each of our rooms are different and priced differently. So it is difficult for somebody to choose Contd. on page 25
ASIAN TRAVELLER
people
Rajiv Gandhi Environment Award for Captain Krishnan Nair he world environment day celebrated on June 5, has brought another feather in the cap of Capt. C.P. Krishnan Nair, Chairman, The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts in the form of the prestigious Bharath Ratna Rajiv Gandhi Environment Award. He was honoured for his exemplary work in the protection of the environment by the Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Ashok Rao Chavan, Capt The Maharashtra Pradesh Congress Committee has conferred the Bharat Ratna Rajiv Gandhi Environment Award upon Captain C P Krishnan Nair, Chairman, The Leela palaces, Hotels & Resorts. Nair can be considered a Rajiv Kaul, President, The Leela Palaces, Hotels & Resorts received the award on the behalf of true pioneer in the field of Captain Nair from Ashokrao Chavan, Chief Minister, Maharashtra on June 5, World Environment Day. environmental protection. He is responsible for converting hundreds of acres of land into verdant haven through landscaping and plantation of exotic and rare plants. He has played an integral part in replacing eyesores with gardens around The Leela Kempinski Mumbai, in co-operation with the International Airports Authority of India, the Mumbai Municipal Corporation and other civic organizations.
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Punam Mohandas Appointed PATA Director Communications
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ATA has announced the appointment of Punam Mohandas as its new Director – Communications, replacing Dale
Lawrence who leaves PATA in mid June. Punam is a senior journalist with 17-years experience. Her most recent assignment was as Editor of Hotelier India magazine.
JULY 2010
hospitality
Sarovar Hotels & Resorts Opens
Ambrosia Sarovar Portico in Haridwar arovar, Hotels and resorts, the fourth largest chain in India has recently announced the opening of Ambrosia Sarovar Portico in Haridwar.
Director, Sarovar Hotels & Resorts said, “Haridwar enjoys a heavy tourist inflow round the year and the Ambrosia Sarovar Portico, a full service, mid scale brand, will fill the need-gap in the city for quality accommodation. Its close proximity to both Roorkee and Haridwar makes it an ideal venue for conferences”. Sarovar Portico is a full service, international standard midscale hotel brand from Sarovar Hotels & Resorts The 70 room hotel is located Baba Ramdev’s Patanjali portfolio, promising just off the Roorkee Yogpeeth, Rajaji National consistent and efficient Haridwar national highway, Park and the Crystal Water services and facilities to its offering a perfect blend of Park making it the perfect guests. The Portico brand contemporary architecture holiday spot. currently enjoys presence combined with Sarovar’s “Ambrosia Sarovar across 17 destinations in signature hospitality. With Portico will provide fine India including Ahmedabad, this, Sarovar’s presence has hospitality at very Chennai, New Delhi, spread across religious competitive prices’, said Anil Nashik, Goa, Indore, Manali, destinations including Madhok, Managing Director, Lucknow, Lonavala, Port Badrinath, Nashik, Sarovar Hotels & Resorts. Blair and Shirdi, amongst Pondicherry and Shirdi. Ajay K. Bakaya, Executive others.
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Located just 14km from the Roorkee railway station, 11 km from SIDCUL Industrial area and 12 km from Haridwar city centre, Sarovar Portico is easily accessible to all the tourists. It is also in close proximity to the famous
New Online Search Engine, Booking System from Accor
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ccor has launched a new online search engine and booking system for the Group’s brands namely Sofitel, Pullman, Mercure, Novotel, Suitehotel, all seasons, ibis and Etap Hotel. The website accorhotels.com, will enable web users to select their hotel and room type, with the addition of a range of new features, which includes an interactive map showing hotel locations and descriptions, and an advanced, intelligent search engine that will allow users to refine their search as they navigate, using criteria as budget, number of children and the presence of a car park or a swimming pool. Jean-Luc Chrétien, Executive Vice President, Hotel Marketing and Distribution Accor said, “The new system is a prime example of how Accor’s distribution strategy focuses on customers. We constantly strive to deliver at tractive, personalised of fers to ensure customer satisfaction.”
Golden Tulip Launches Operations in Phuket with Exclusive Ayurvedic Spa
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lobal hospitality group Golden Tulip has launched operations in Phuket, Thailand with the opening of the luxury Golden Tulip Mangosteen Resort and Spa. The former Mangosteen Resort & Spa has undergone an inspirational re-fit since Golden Tulip reflagged the property and is the perfect place to rela x, chill out and enjoy the excellent views, perfectly complimented by Thai hospitality and the much sought af ter Ayurvedic Spa experience. Claude Baltes, the General Manager of the Golden Tulip Mangosteen Resort and Spa said the company had invested heavily in bringing the resort up to Golden Tulip standards, especially in
JULY 2010
relation to being the only Ayurveda Spa destination in Phuket. “Phuket remains an ex tremely popular destination for domestic and overseas visitors and we are certainly proud of our Ayur vedic Spa and the team of managers and therapists we have welcomed on board at the resort to compliment the overall experience we provide,” Baltes said. “Golden Tulip are on the right track engaging this resort and spa as a core launch pad to our expansion in Thailand and Asia.” The all-villa resort’s secluded location in Phuket’s serene mountains of fers unrivalled views of Phuket Town, its surrounding bays and out to the islands of the Andaman Sea. Villas of fer privacy
with outside garden bathrooms and rain showers, private Jacuzzis and quiet terraces with hammocks. The resort is also just minutes
and Spa’s food and beverage menus are wide and varied in its fine dining restaurant, equipped with its own private underground
away from pristine beaches and prime shopping districts from its tropical hillside location. The Golden Tulip Mangosteen Resort
wine cellar, to combine fine beverages with a succulent selection of Asian, western and Mediterranean dishes.
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ASIAN TRAVELLER
tamil nadu traveller
Beaches of Tamil Nadu spend their holidays or leisure time. The seas have amil Nadu always had an exotic variety of marine an added charm to life and one can find those seeking beauty numerous souvenirs here. in nature, culture and its Tamil Nadu is a state people. Being an all round blessed with a long coastline destination, catering to of about 910 km which spiritual, nature and houses some of the best adventure travelers alongside beaches in India. The Marina the leisure and business Beach in Chennai is the travelers, the state is second longest beach in the positioning itself as an world. exotic one. Beaches is one The long sandy washed by product that attracts a lot of the Bay of Bengal is lately travelers and tourists. Both home to various activities foreign, domestic tourists like wind surfing, fishing and and even the locals turn different boat rides. It is also towards the beaches to favoured by many film Dr. S. BAKTHAVATCHALAM
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makers to shoot some parts of the movies here. The major attractions among the beaches of Tamil Nadu are Marina Beach, Chennai, Mahabalipuram Beach, Rameshwaram Beach, Kanyakumari Beach, Covelong Beach, Kurusadai Islands, Muttukkadu Beach etc. The 12-km long Marina Beach is the longest beaches in Asia which attract a lot of travelers. The golden sandy beach and the azure waters make it a popular beach in the international map. A short 20-minute drive from
Chennai is the Golden Beach Resort. Covelong Beach another popular but away from the bustling Chennai maintown. Fishing activities are the main attraction of the beach situated on the outskirts of the Chennai metropolitan. Mahabalipuram beach is 58 km south of Chennai, famous for its unique 7th century Shore Temple. Mahabalipuram or Mamallapuram was once a port city of the Pallavas and is home to exotic monuments belonging to the times.
Conser vation of Natural Resources the Focal Point of Tamil Nadu Tourism Policy
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onservation and preserva tion of natural resources, prescribing standards for the stake holders to follow and adoption of public-private partnership (PPP) model are main aspects given stress in the recently released Tamil Nadu Tourism policy. The Policy, which was formally released by M K Stalin, Deputy Chief Minister, Tamil Nadu, Monday in the presence of Tourism minister N. Suresh Rajan, Forest minister N. Selvaraj, Tourism secretary V. Irai Anbu, Principal Secretary of Forests Debendranath Sarangi, TTDC Managing Director A.C. Mohandoss, General Manager of Eco Tourism wing P.A. Mani and other of ficials, provides strategic direction to engage local communities, tourists, forest of ficials, government and other stakeholders in promoting ef fective Ecotourism
JULY 2010
activities resulting in conservation and preservation of natural resources. According to the Policy note, the state government will endeavour to promote Ecotourism and its activities by pursuing various objectives including identification and promotion of lesser known areas having Ecotourism potential. Steps will be taken to create awareness on education and conser vation techniques among tourists and local communities. Only activities and facilities which would have least impact on natural resources and local culture would be permit ted. The new policy also lays down penal measures for violation of rules. The policy also proposes to take steps to prevent the use of plastic and other non-biodegradable products around water bodies, parks, zoos and reserves.
Deputy Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu M.K.Stalin releasing the Eco Tourism policy by handing over a copy to Tourism Minister Suresh Rajan in Chennai in the presence of Forest Minister N. Selvaraj, Tourism Secretary V. Irai Anbu, Principal Secretary of Forests Debendranath Sarangi, TTDC Managing Director A.C. Mohandoss and General Manager of Eco Tourism Wing P.A. Mani.
Public-private par tnership (PPP) model will be adopted in the areas of infrastructure sharing and knowledge exchange, to promote ecotourism in the state. Non-
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governmental organisations working in the fields of environment and wildlife will be involved in ecoeducation and eco-awareness among the tourists.
ASIAN TRAVELLER
karnataka traveller
Karnataka Tourism Gets a Fillip at Global Investors’ Meet
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he recently concluded t woday Global Investor’s Meet (GIM) in Bangalore organised by Karnataka State Government which saw investment worth Rs 4 Trillion has also acted as a boost to the state tourism industry. The longpending idea of helitourism, also known as the ‘air ta xi’ project will be one of the first to benefit. Karnataka Tourism Minister, G Janardhana Reddy has said that the government is also looking at the prospects of having cruise tourism to take advantage of Karnataka’s 300 km shoreline. The government would provide all the required assistance to the investors and they need not worry about paper work involve, he added. A deputy director from the tourism department has been appointed liaison of ficer, to act as
a nodal point for tourism and other departments, to process documentation. K Jothiramalingam, Principal Secretary, Karnataka Tourism, explained the Master Plan 20102020 on opportunities available in the state at the meet. He said about with the implementation of this master plan, which is inter disciplinary and focuses on several elements, about 2 lakh new jobs — direct and indirect — will be created in the nex t three to five years. The plan also envisages investment of up to Rs 20,000 crore in the nex t three to five years, a large por tion of which will be through private-public par ticipation. There is also plan to deploy Green Police in all tourist places. Four Places Identified for Heli Tourism Karnataka has identified
B S Yeddyurappa Karnataka Chief Minister
G Janardhana Reddy Karnataka Tourism Minister
four places in Bagalkot district, to set up helipads to promote Heli tourism. Chikkamuchhalagudda near Badami, Navanagar near Bagalkot, Kudal Sangam and Algur in Jamkhandi taluk are the places chosen to set up heli-points. Each heli-point will be set up on a 250 sq feet area. With the introduction of Heli Tourism, the places of histori-
cal importance like Pat tadakallu, Aihole, Badami, Shivayogi Mandir, Kudal Sangam and Jamakhandi, will become more popular. It is learnt that New Delhi-based Oasis Air Management Pv t Ltd will be signing an MoU with the state tourism depar tment for helitourism. The state government has also plans to launch Heli tourism packages in the nex t one year. The required number of helipads will be constructed in places closest to historical spots- Murdeshwar, Gokarna, Kukkai, Karwar, Moodbidri, Sringeri, Badami and Aihole areas in Bagalkot district. The state government is also going to enter into tie-ups with hotels, lodges and transport vehicles with regards to provide basic facilities to tourists, af ter their visits to the historic places.
Yakshagana
Karnataka’s Traditional Dance Drama
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akshagana, the traditional dance drama has matured itself to the face of the ar t and culture of Karnataka, the southern state of India. This is a folk dance which evolved from the now-ex tinct Gandharva Grama musical system now survives in its indigenous form only in parts of Karnataka and Kasaragod district of Kerala. The literal meaning of Yakshagana is the song (gana) of Yakshas. The performances usually depict stories from the Hindu epics Mahabharata, Ramayana and puranas. The art form is said to have originated in the 11th century. Yakshagana of ten called Aataâ meaning play combines dance, music, dialogues. The unique costume and makeup along with distinct stage technique creates a discrete ambi-
ASIAN TRAVELLER
ence. The artists’ wear colorful costumes head-dresses and face paints. Costumes differ according to the roles. The traditional performances usually start in the evenings and go on all night. Several fixed compositions are played on drums an hour before the stage gets live. A typical Yakshagana performance begins with a prayer offering to the lord Ganesha, which is followed by a comedy act, accompanied by the background music. The sound division of the gana consists of a Mummela, the dance and dialogue group headed by Bhagawatha, the narrator who tells the story through songs and Himmela the background musicians. Traditional musical instruments; Maddale, taala, harmonium, pungi, chande and loud drums
are used. Together they perform the Yakshaga Prasanga. The music Mattu and Yakshagana Tala is based on pre-Karnataka Sangeetha Ragas which later evolved Karnataka Sangeetha Talas. The Yakshagana Raga and Yakshagana Tala have a folk influence. All the components of Yakshagana, music, dance and dialog are improvised. A unique feature of Yakshagana is that it is totally unrehearsed and its unwritten use of dialogues. It is a synchronization of both classical and folk languages which build up such an air of fascination. Depending on the ability and scholarship of the actors, the dance and amount of dialog
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dif fers. It is not uncommon for actors to get into philosophical debates or arguments without going out of the framework of the character being enacted. Traditionally, Yakshagana played with elements of Sanskrit drama, traditional music played is in
temples and village squares and bare paddy fields. It is in the rural areas with less transportation the masses enjoy the ar t to the full. The ar tists are well respected too.
JULY 2010
aviation
DGCA Issues Fresh Norms for Airlines
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he Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), the regulator of aviation in India has issued Fresh norms mandating correct landing procedures and occupying of the cockpit in the backdrop of the recent Air India Express mishap in Mangalore, Karnataka in India. DGCA has instructed directives on Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) to all scheduled, nonscheduled and general aviation operators to go for ‘correct landing’ procedures that is made at the correct point on the runway with the correct flight parameters than sof t landing which results in a
delayed touchdown that require harsh deceleration to avoid overshooting the runway or other catastrophes. In case of an unstablised approach the pilot should go-around for another opportunity to conduct a safe approach to land. The cockpit has to be manned by minimum crew complement at all times and if one of the crew members has to leave the cockpit, a senior member among cabin crew is required to be inside the cockpit and occupy the obser ver seat. The other procedures that the crew including the pilots have to
Mobile Emirates.com
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JULY 2010
flight deck should follow the entry request procedure. The pilot remaining in the cockpit shall wear shoulders harness, and headset and maintain high level of alert-
ness, and situational awareness. He should have an un-obstructed access to the flight controls.
Automated Carrier Baggage Rules from IATA
Emirates Launches mirates Airlines have recently commenced Mobile Emirates.com for customers around the globe. wireless Emirates.com is designed to work with more than 3,000 wireless apparatus and has been optimized to make certain that customers can effortlessly and effectively get access to the airlines website through their wireless telephones while on the move. The new complicated functionality makes certain that the websites is downloaded in the right format for exact mobile apparatus. This will allow customers to present
follow are; Prior to opening the flight deck door, the forward galley area should be free of passengers. The curtain bet ween the galley and the cabin must be drawn during such times. Absence from cockpit should be restricted to the minimum time necessary and the flight deck door is locked whilst crew member is absent. The forward galley area must remain sterile during the absence from the flight deck and the crew member returning to the
many jobs that encompass: searching for air travel agenda and rank, checking in-air travel amenities for specific flights, registration and managing flights, and checking in. Emirates older vice leader of mesh sales and traveller development Russell Sheldon said that consumers are more mobile now than ever before, and there is a constant need for services and goods to cater to the onthe-go lifestyle of individuals. People desire everything here and now, he continued, with no exclusions. Wireless seek has become one of the quickest growing activities on the internet and the launch of this website will permit travellers to conveniently and quickly publication online. He furthermore added that Emirates Airlines has habitually been committed to proposing customers in an effective and easy way to merge with the business and they are assured this location will further accomplish this purpose.
he International Air Transport Association (IATA) has announced Automated Carrier Baggage Rules (ACBR), the latest project in IATA’s Simplifying the Business programme. ACBR will provide a central database for interline baggage rules, enabling airlines, travel agents and passengers to know what baggage rules will apply for any given itinerary. IATA is partnering with the Airline Tariff Publishing Company (ATPCO), who will host the central database. IATA will populate the database by mobilising airlines to submit their baggage rules to ATPCO by September 2010 for implementation in early 2011. Travel agents and airlines that link to the new database through existing reservations and ticketing systems will enable passengers to receive baggage fee and allowance information at the time at the time of booking. Airlines will benefit from easier, faster and more
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accurate handling of baggage charges at check-in. This will reduce costly and time-consuming disputes between carriers over whose baggage allowances and charges apply for any given journey. Giovanni Bisignani, Director General and CEO, IATA said, “Baggage rules are becoming increasingly complex and confusing. We must improve transparency
so that travellers know what to expect. Airlines have a variety of different rules and fees depending on the number of bags checked, class of travel, frequent flyer status and routings. ACBR will put all of that information in one place so passengers can have a complete understanding of baggage fees before they buy their tickets—even for complicated journeys.” ASIAN TRAVELLER
newsline
IT&CMA and CTW 2010 Backed by Industr y Demand
Nishant Kashikar Australia Tourism Country Manager India
T&CMA 2010 is witnessing substantial increase in the participation by the returning exhibitors as National Convention and Exhibition Bureaus such as Thailand, Brunei, Indonesia, Seoul and Korea have committed to larger floor spaces of 20% to 50%. "The increased participation affirms Asia-Pacific's desire to further expand the MICE industry in Asia. Choosing IT&CMA is Darren Ng testimony of their MD, TTG Asia confidence that the event can deliver superior business prospects." acknowledges Darren Ng, Managing Director of TTG Asia Media, organizer of IT&CMA and CTW 2010. With some 5 months to the event in October 5 to 7, IT&CMA 2010 has sold more than 90% of its'
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exhibition space. Confidence in the show remains buoyant despite the recent challenges in Bangkok. "The safety and welfare of our delegates are our utmost priority. As normalcy returns to Thailand we are confident that the event will be staged with minimal disruption," assures Darren Ng. Long-standing partner Thailand Convention and Exhibitions Bureau (TCEB) have also re-affirmed their support and commitment to making IT&CMA and CTW 2010 a success. Last year's sales and delegate numbers are expected to be outperformed as the organizers have received more than 500 applications from interested buyers, corporate travel managers and media to date and these numbers are set to increase. Registrations can be made at www.itcma.com or www.corporatetravelworld.com
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ourism Australia has appointed Nishant Kashikar as the Country Manager for India. Kashikar will primarily be responsible for further strengthening the strong distribution network of the Aussie Specialist Agents and for all consumer and trade marketing activities for the promotion of Australian tourism products in India. Kashikar has previously held senior management positions with Kuoni Travel India Pvt. Ltd. as Head Marketing and Thomas Cook India Ltd. as Manager – Marketing. Prior to his foray into the tourism industry, Nishant has worked as a Group Product Manager - Nutrition Division at Abbott India Ltd.
JULY 2010
luxur y
Super Luxury Yacht Venture Launches In Thailand sia’s leading luxury yacht company, Yacht Solutions, has unveiled a high-end superyacht division - Ruea Yachts - which will design and construct exclusive vessels to satisfy escalating demand among affluent individuals in Asia and across the world. Combining European
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marine technology and design with the renowned finishing skills of Thai craftsmen, Ruea Yachts will specialise in building Lloyds classification and MCA LY2 code certified custom luxury yachts of up to 85 metres in size in Thailand. Ruea Yachts Managing Director Gareth Twist said Yacht Solutions had built a
global reputation for exceptional quality and service and it was now a logical step Gareth Twist to grow the business through a fresh and energetic brand that would appeal to high-net worth individuals looking for luxury superyachts. “Asia is a region that is increasingly the focus of the marine industry globally, with a lot of interest traditionally coming from Hong Kong, Singapore
and Thailand from both expatriate and Asian clients,” said Twist, who is also a founding member of the Asia Pacific Superyacht Association. “Most recently we have seen a real jump in interest from China and India. Due to our partnerships in the UK with BMT Nigel Gee and Design Unlimited, we are fast becoming an alternative choice for European buyers looking for a competitively priced superyacht.” Ruea Yachts operates out of two high-quality shipyards in Thailand, one in Phuket and another in Bangkok, where the construction of an impressive 60-metre conversion is due to be revealed in August this year. It employs a skilled labour shipyard team of 120 professionals and at least 100 sub-contractors at any one time.
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unless he actually sees it. So we are spending some money on our website, which I think is a big part of the marketing. On Expansion Plans We have a second phase coming up which include a conference hall and eight more rooms. We will stick to that as none of our hotels will have more than 30 rooms. We will keep it always between five and 30. What we mean by boutique luxury resort is privacy and serenity and it is not where people come and have large gatherings. Our conference room will be small as we are ASIAN TRAVELLER
operational by 2014. We are looking at the spa in a larger concept and try what we can do in franchising our brand ‘Niramaya.’ We are working
ourselves. On Vision Being an investor the things I do here is based on my experience while travelling. When we travel what we always look for is something niche rather than what we get at other places. We look for something special, personalised and unique where people like to stay for a longer period. On Your Family doing only small conferences My husband is a like that of CEOs. The four Member of properties including Parliament who Kovalam, Kumarakom, on that and what we will do also runs his own businesses. Chikmagalur and Goa is a is giving the technology and I have two kids who are long term affair for me. All also franchise Niramaya Spa. eleven and nine. We live in these are expected to be We plan to run all our hotels Bangalore. • 25 •
JULY 2010
indian panorama
Puri Rath Yatra Festival Begins on July 13
J&K Tourism Policy on the Anvil
ath Yatra, the massive annual Chariot Festival of Lord Jagannath, will take place from July 13 at the temple town of Puri, in Orissa. The arrangements for the smooth conduct of the nine-day festival have reached the final stages. There will be a huge procession of decorated idols of Lord Jagannath, his sister Subhadra and brother Balbhadra or Balrama. All the deities are seated on separate chariots with the Lord adorning the most massive one. One of the unique features of this chariot bearing the Lord, other than its grand size of 14 into 10 meters, is that it is pulled by devotees rather than the horses. The ropes of this chariot are considered to be the threads of salvation.
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new policy on tourism, which will focus on developing various tourism infrastructure, as well as promoting Adventure Tourism, with an aim to attract more number of tourists in the state will soon be announced by the Department of Tourism (DoT), Government of Jammu and Kashmir.
Exclusive Website on Taj Mahal
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n exclusive website on Taj Mahal has been launched recently by The Uttar Pradesh State Tourism Department. The website provides complete details about the world famous monument with photographs, different views of the monument during day and night, information on trains and flights, currency converter, ticket rates, accommodation facilities and information about certified guides, along with contact details of the UP Tourism offices in Lucknow and Agra. http://tajmahal.gov.in, which has been designed by Prosix Softron.
HP to Give Priority to Golf Tourism imachal Pradesh Government will give added priority to sports tourism in the coming days in their attempt to attract more visitors to the state. Prof. Prem Kumar Dhumal, Chief Minister, HP reiterated the resolve of the State Government in this regard and stressed the pivotal role Golf has been playing. He was addressing the prize distribution ceremony of one-day Carlsberg Golf Tournament at universally known
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Naldehra Golf Course
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Now tell us about your family? I am a USA citizen and have set tled in the USA for the last 35 years. I am married and very fortunate to have a wonderful partner in Chaya N Gupta. Our children are pursuing their Medical studies back home. Our parents and other family members, brother and t wo sisters are also set tled in the USA. Tell us about your hobbies and other interests? My passion is to travel to dif ferent parts of the world. I am fascinated with the dif ferent cultures and the societ y of the dif ferent countries. I enjoy the dif ferent foods and will always like to visit a new restaurant which of fers unique and dif ferent cuisines. In my free time, I will just be with my wife and children and enjoy TV or Spor ts. Whenever I do get a
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Naldehra Golf Course near Shimla recently. State Government was strengthening the sports infrastructural facilities at all level, which had been supplementing tourism promotion activities in the State, he added. Naldehra Golf Course is one of the oldest and best located Golf Course in the country, which has attracted golfers of par eminence in the world. The location in close vicinity to the dense forest is the main attraction.
chance, I like playing Golf with friends. Which is your favorite destination and why? I love traveling through Europe, just rent a car and drive through dif ferent nations and the countryside. It is just fascinating to see dif ferent countries and cultures. I have visited all of the Western Europe countries so far and still have a lot to visit and discover in Eastern Europe now. I still have a lot to explore although I've living in the US for the last 35 years. The country is amazing and as you travel from the East Coast to the West Coast, the countryside and the dif ferent cities. The great cities like New York, Philadelphia, the wonder ful beaches of Florida and California, the beautiful Midwest, The Rockies and the Sunny California is all wor th visiting. It's just an amazing country.
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ASIAN TRAVELLER
kerala traveller
variety
Treading the Murk y Waters LEKSHMI P.
he Inland Vessel Rules, 2010 has created a huge furor among Kerala's house boat owners. The Draconian law which is concerned with the renewal of licenses has put the livelihood of around 4000 people at risk. Implementing the changes suggested in the Inland Vessels Act, 1917 by a committee headed by B.R. Menon, would halt the plying of the houseboats during the peak tourist season. After the Thekaddy boat tragedy, an urgent need was felt to amend the old Act of 1917. According to the new rules, marine engineers and architects are required to inspect boats before issuing or renewing licenses. Though the new law is necessary to ensure the safety of the passengers, implementing it in a hurry would not be a wise step. Houseboats are one of the USPs of Kerala tourism and an action like this would put the image of the industry at serious risk as it caters to both the international and domestic crowd, feels many. Also, the insistence of ITI certification for the boat drivers would put an end to the responsible tourism which has a workforce of
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around 90 per cent from the local population. “The new Inland Vessels Rule is meant mainly for the marine conditions. Houseboats ferry on the calm backwaters and they are built by traditional builders. Two passengers are always accompanied by three people on a boat that can carry 30-35 tonnes, so the question of compromising on the V.C. Zacharia safety doesn't arise here. Also, the fact that houseboats have never been involved in any accident proves that they are a very safe option”, says V.C. Zacharia, President, All Kerala Houseboat Owners' Association. The houseboat owners have approached the High Court expecting some sort of a relief to help them tide through the crisis. The verdict of the court is awaited on the 8th or 10th of July. The government has so far refrained from making any comments on this issue.
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2. 3.
4.
What do you call a mechanical model of the solar system that represents the relative motions of the planets around the Sun? What is special about 'Nomenous Quarterly'? What has The Republic of San Marino, Vatican City and The Kingdom of Lesotho have in common? Which is the only airline to of fer in-flight massages to passengers? 5.
What unenviable role did Pudding Lane Bakery play in the history of England? 6. What is the opposite of 'Utopia'? 7. Catchphrase of which country's tourism board reads "100% Pure"? 8. What is the significance of the number 46664? 9. What is +Teamgeist? 10. Against which team did Pele scored his first World Cup Goal?
Compiled by JEEKAY
Send in your answers to info@mediastepsindia.com with TYKC34 in the the subject line. Answers should reach us before the 30th of this month. Answers to TYKC 33 1. A sof t ware that scares you so much about the vulnerability of your computer system towards buying it, 2. Nor th Carolina, 3. Crossroads, 4. The respective founders were brothers - Adi Dassler and Rudi Dassler, 5. Island-Mountain Glacier, 6. 1189, 7. 18, 8. At Harrods (1878), 9. An Italian dessert made of sponge cake, cof fee etc ( It. ' tira mi su' = 'pick me up' ), 10. Arthur Ashe
TYKC 33 - WINNER SANDEEP SHARMA Vasanth Vihar New Delhi
One all-correct entry will get Free Stay at Le-Meridien, Kochi
[ 2 nights and 3 days for two ]* 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
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JULY 2010
kerala traveller
Munnar Tourist Zone Ordinance Approved he Kerala government has approved an ordinance for Munnar Tourism Zone which gives control of Munnar town to the government. Announcing the cabinet decision in Thiruvananthapuram VS Achuthanandan, Chief Minister, Kerala said that the state government will acquire about 1,036 acre of land in Kannan Devan Village in Devikulam Taluk for development of Munnar as a tourism destination as per the ordinance.
T
Eco Tourism Project at Gavi
T
o at tract more foreign and domestic tourists to Kerala, the forest department is sponsoring some unique tourist packages that include elephant safaris and trekking in the deep jungles of Gavi near Munnar, which is otherwise unaccessible to the public. The Gavi eco tourism, promoted by Green mansion could be the largest of its kind in Kerala is designed by keeping adventure tourism in mind. Gavi Eco Tourism would ensure memorable wildlife
and jungle experiences in the most remote and virgin areas located near the Periyar Tiger Reserve. This tourism initiative will introduce the rich heritage, exceptional flora and fauna and the tribal set tlements of the Western Ghats to the outside world and to make Gavi a gateway to the rest of the world. With an objective to raise awareness to protect the forest wealth and the wild life, this project will help in enhancing the green and forested frontiers of Kerala.
Master Plan for Kumarakom Envisaged
K
erala Government will undertake Rs 600 crore worth of development works in the tourism sector this year. This was announced by Kodiyeri Balakrishnan, Tourism Minister recently at Kumarakom, Kottayam. He said a master plan would be formulated for the overall development of Kumarakom, known for its backwaters and houseboats. Service of architects of international repute would be utilised for the purpose, he added.
JULY 2010
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ASIAN TRAVELLER
kerala traveller
Villa Romantica
Exclusive Honeymoon Resort illa Romantica, an exclusive resort for honeymooners has been opened in Cochin by Travel Planners, one of the leading tour operators. The villa, which is the first of its kind in Kerala, has been designed to recapture the
V
magic of a serene atmosphere to serve as the perfect spot for a romantic getaway. The four - air conditioned honey moon suites that the villa has to offer represent a place where dreams turn into reality. A swimming pool and a private
garden add splendor to the whole experience. Equipped with large beds, ample wardrobes, television sets, and bathrooms with all the modern amenities in it, the suites are a perfect blend of luxury and sophistication. The other facilities offered are a secure parking space and an in-house dining menu. w w w.thevillaromantica.in
ASIAN TRAVELLER
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JULY 2010
variety
JULY 2010 Aviation Outlook China 2010
06 - 08
IITM, Bangalore
10 - 12
Puri Rath Yatra, Orissa
13
IITM, Chennai
16 - 18
TTF, Hyderabad
23 - 25
TTF, Calcutta
31 - Aug 2
AUGUST 2010 Teej Festival, Jaipur, India Punnamada Boat Race, Kerala, India
Atul Budhraja has joined Ramada Ahamadabad hotel as General Manager.
Prakash Royan has been promoted to Corporate General Manager of Nandhana Group of Hotels.
Kiron Nair, has been promoted to Sr. Hotel Manager, Ginger Hotels in Bangalore
Midhun John has joined Ginger Trivandrum as Hotel Manager.
Krishnadas P. has joined Media Steps India (publishers of Asian Traveller) as Senior Sub Editor
12 - 13 14
TTF, Ahmedabad
20 - 22
TTF, Surat
27 - 29
CIBTM, Beijing, China
Jaya Prakash Nair has been appointed Station Manager, Qatar Airways, Thiruvananthapuram.
31 - Sept 02
SEPTEMBER 2010 IITM, Mumbai
03 - 05
PATA Travel Mart, Macau
14 - 17
KTM, Kochi, India
23 - 26
World Tourism Day
JULY 2010
27
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ASIAN TRAVELLER