AT JULY 2013 by Asian Traveller

Vol. 6

No. 11

Pages 40

` 100

US$ 10 (Overseas)

July 2013

Incredible India

through the pages .

VOL. 6 NO. 11 JULY 2013

08 Looking Back Moving Ahead Kumarakom 2013 16 Hill Forts of Rajasthan 27 Thailand Wins “Best International Travel Destination” Award 33 Gujarat Tourism Bags CNBC Awaaz Travel Award 34 As I Travel

P 12-13

36 AirAsia to Work with Smaller Agents 36 Shimla Has Top Rated Hotels Ten Questions

Woman of the month

P 10-11

P 18-19 MAHESH JASROTIA

MEDHA SAMPAT

Interview

1st Person

Interview

P 20

P 22-23

P 31

CARL VAZ

PREM JOSEPH

HIMMAT ANAND

ASIAN TRAVELLER | JULY 2013

EDITOR’S NOTE

Editor & Publisher : G. Biju Krishnan

Group Vice President : Siji Sen

Chief Executive Officer : M. P. Sreekumar

Group Editor : Reeny Joseph Art Editor : Pradeep C. N.

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Sub Editor : Sreejith N. K.

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Director-PR (Mumbai) : Ashok Bania

s more and more tourists are trotting across the globe seeking new and varied experiences to refresh their soul and body, the need for practising Responsible tourism (RT)is becoming increasingly relevant. The death and devastation in Uttarakhand could have been less severe, had the region, visited by large number of tourists and pilgrims each year, practised responsible tourism. Responsible tourism, which gels well with the environment, holds great promise for shrinking the scope and scale of natural calamities, particularly in the Himalayan region. Responsible Tourism is mainly conceived with three kinds of responsibilities which are termed as the ‘triple bottom-line’ economic responsibility, social responsibility and environmental responsibility. Though the concept of responsible tourism was there right from 1996, it was after the Cape Town Declaration of 2002 that a detailed picture of responsible tourism - including its aims, and factors evolved. RT encompasses all forms of tourism and seeks to minimize negative economic, environment and social impacts. It generates greater economic benefits to local people and enhances the wellbeing of local communities. It also makes positive contributions to the conservation of natural and cultural heritage, and maintenance of the world’s diversity. Kerala is the pioneer of responsible tourism in India. The initiative was first implemented at four destinations, including Kovalam, Kumarakom, Thekkady and Wayanad. The backwater heartland of Kumarakom in Kottayam district has emerged as a model, both nationally and globally. It is one of the two RT models being monitored by the World Tourism Organisation to see if it could be replicated elsewhere — the other is Gambia in western Africa. Whether you are travelling on your own or arranging travels for others always bear in mind that the Earth is your homeland. Give it the care and respect it deserves; learn about its environment and geography; spend time getting to know its people and their art, culture, history, and livelihoods. Great places to live are great places to visit.

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TEN QUESTIONS

A Man of Rich Experience Mahesh Jasrotia, General Manager, Beaumonde The Fern, is an experienced professional who takes pride in starting his career with well known brands in the hospitality industry. In an exclusive interview with Asian Traveller he shares his memorable moments in the hospitality sector.

You have been in the hospitality industry for the past several years. Could you tell us about your early days? What made you enter the hospitality sector? At the start of my career I have worked with brands like The Leela, The Taj and The Welcom Group , It has been truly a learning experience. Just as for a concrete building to last long under all circumstances, I would say I was fortunate to start my career by working in different established brands and that set the right foundation in terms of culture and practices of hospitality in me. Hotel management was a piece of

peer guidance to me for which again I am truly thankful as today I have a career ahead of me from where there is no looking back. What plans do you have for the company? I have been with Fern Hotels & Resorts / Concept Hospitality Pvt Ltd for the last three years. I have grown with this company and today The Fern is one of the fastest growing hotel chains in the country with proven expertise in managing and operating a collective set of environmentally sensitive hotels. Today we have 22 hotels operational, 1104 keys and many more to come

in next one year. So we at Fern Hotels and Resorts look forward to taking our philosophy of hospitality with responsibility to many places in the country and beyond. As of today I have a vision for the current project in hand, Beaumonde The Fern – Kochi’s first five star Ecotel hotel to become a synonym of responsible tourism in Kerala just as we are in other parts of the country. I would like to increase brand awareness and spread ecotel culture in the society. A word of appreciation to our visionaries of KGB Hospitality , Deepak Sathyapalan, Devadas who saw and believed in ecotel as

a responsible way of tourism and joined hands with Param Kannampilly, Chairman – Concept Hospitality & Fern Hotels & Resorts, to build Beaumonde The Fern, An Ecotel Hotel. ‘Ecotel’ is a hallmark of environmentally sensitive hotel and is a certification awarded by HVS International based in US. How do you see the role of a hotel in developing a destination? What all things can hospitality sector do in this regard? There is no point in promoting a destination which does not have a good place to stay and eat even if it is beautiful. Tourism

ASIAN TRAVELLER | JULY 2013

TEN QUESTIONS

boards are responsible for creating a destination, but I feel Hospitality sector has the responsibility to join hands with tourism board to promote the destination.

Where would you like to see yourself, say, 10 years from now?

Sector more attractive to invest and all are looking at India now. Further opening up of civil aviation sector is also simultaneously providing the boosting effect. It is only a matter of time till world economies improve & come out of the shadow of recession.

I definitely would love to be identified as a key hotelier who has contributed to this industry and a person who Would you please share with us the proudest made a difference. Today moment and some of the all talk about our chairman unforgettable moments in Param Kannampilly as a your professional life? pioneer of hotel industry and About your family? setting up hotels across the I have been born and Each moment is a country I hope I will be able to brought up in Jammu. I am memorable moment, it would take similar legacy ahead. here in Kerala because of the be unfair to tag only few but support of my parents who when you see your efforts and How do you see the educated and allowed me to hard work get appreciated by growth prospects of Indian explore career opportunities the guest with their simple hospitality sector? outside Jammu. I have words of appreciation they Indian Hospitality seen many places and now truly become unforgettable definitely has a positive currently residing here with moments. growth prospects in times to my family in Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s own In your career, have you come. Further with increase country. my wife is an interior ever worked abroad? What in FDI in the hospitality sector designer by profession and I according to you are the supported by improvement have a two year old daughter . advantages of working policies and conditions by 9) Please tell us about your overseas? the government which is hobbies and other interests? allowing even 100 percent FDI No, I have not worked I am a simple man with is making Indian Hospitality abroad.

ASIAN TRAVELLER | JULY 2013

a strong belief in God. My hobbies involve anything & everything that brings me closer to the God Almighty, Lord Shiva, whether it is listening to spiritual music or reading spiritual books. On fun days I look forward to watching movies, going to different places with family and watching cricket is my all time favorite breakaway. Which is your favourite destination? Why? Goa is very close to my heart and I have very good memories of the place. There is something special in the air of Goa that fills you in with a complete sense of relaxation, fun and frolic. But it is here in Kerala amidst the backwaters, in the middle of ocean, amongst the tall coconut trees and in the traditional culture I find solace.

Responsible Tourism

Looking Back Moving Ahead Kumarakom 2013

“L

ooking Back, Moving Ahead", the just concluded Responsible Tourism (RT) seminar at Kumarakom, one of the state’s most frequented spots, witnessed a huge gathering with experts from home and abroad interacting with each other and sharing views on the changing concepts of tourism. The Kumarakom initiative has come to be associated with the steps taken in promoting Responsible Tourism. But the delegates, even those from abroad, raised issues on how tourism could be given a ‘responsible’ tag. The three cardinal principles that drive this genre of tourism are being responsible environmentally, socially and economically. The initiative began at Kumarakom in 2008 and was based on these three

principles. But it threw up issues on the efficacy of the project when viewed against the concept of being responsible. According to a section of the delegates, environmental responsibility means that resources of a specific destination should be used judiciously. This will also mean handling waste from the resorts, hotels and houseboats in the area. The second principle which is social responsibility means that tourism should not demean the local culture. Tourists coming to the destination have the responsibility of preserving and respecting local values and traditions. Economic responsibility is all about helping the local community as a whole and not just the entrepreneurs who are into the tourism projects. Kumarakom has

become a very popular tourist destination in a short period. The setting in the backdrop of Vembanad Lake, the largest freshwater lake in Kerala, has gifted the destination with panoramic views. Besides the tourism activities in the backwaters, the Kumarakom bird sanctuary which extends over 14 acres is a major tourist attraction. Agriculture, fishing and tourism are the major economic activities of Kumarakom. Kumarakom is declared as a Special Tourism Zone by Government of Kerala in 2005. Union Minister of State for Tourism (Independent Charge) Dr K Chiranjeevi, who could not attend the conference, in his message to delegates at the conference, said that while India today can boast of an unparalleled range of destinations and products, it has much to

do in developing these in a responsible manner.

“Our concerns today include overreaching carrying capacity, the unhygienic conditions of our tourism destinations, lack of proper coordination in waste management practices, a lack of concern for nature and environment and above all lack of commitment to preserve our culture and heritage,” the Minister said in his message, which was read out by his private secretary Dr Sai Pratap IPS, at the inaugural function at Backwater Ripples resort Kumarakom. Sitaram Yechury, Chairman, Parliamentary Standing Committee on Transport, Tourism and Culture said all debates on RT over the past decade have recognised that it cannot be achieved without sustainable ASIAN TRAVELLER | JULY 2013

Responsible Tourism

development.

the tourism industry.

He said Kumarakom is an example of the spirit of RT in that it has created a better place to live for the local people and a better place to visit for tourists.

“In this process care has been taken to ensure quality, authenticity, regularity of supply and reasonable prices of products. Today above 1,500 families are connected to RT initiative and are making a decent living,” he added.

But nationwide, there are still concerns to be addressed and a long way to go in dealing with issues such as unregulated tourist arrivals, alienation of local communities and waste management.

Anil Kumar said that the target now is to make Kumarakom a “zero-waste destination”. As part of waste management in the destination, the entire “Responsible Tourism community, industry and is not just about economy visitors are being sensitised; and livelihood, it is also the sewage treatment plant and removal of debris generated biogas plants have been by tourists, not just the established and plastic bags physical debris, but the have been replaced by eco economic, psychological and cultural debris. It is necessary bags. Ecosystem regeneration programme, reconversion of to preserve our cultural fallow land to cultivable land, heritage, both tangible and campaign against conversion intangible.” of prairie land and use of Minister for Tourism AP Anil Kumar said Kumarakom pesticides and chemicals has made remarkable progress for cultivation are some of the other major initiatives on socio-economic fronts it implemented at Kumarakom, was chosen as one of four he said. destinations in the state to pilot RT practices. Waste, including plastic, which accumulates at the He said when it destination, will inevitably was decided to elevate contaminate the water bodies. Kumarakom to an State Tourism Secretary international destination Suman Billa refuted the on the pro-poor RT model, charge that tourism would steps were taken to mobilise inevitably produce negative informal sectors like self results. "If we go by this help groups, farmers groups pessimistic attitude there is and homestead farmers to produce, procure and supply little scope for development. goods and services needed by Tourism helps the exchequer ASIAN TRAVELLER | JULY 2013

tapping”, said RT state coordinator Roopesh Kumar. 'Samridhi', the restaurant run "Since water is a renewable by women, generated around Rs 38 lakh in the last two resource, we should think months. of implementing a proper The efforts to launch RT at water plan where we can Kumarakom started in May calculate the total resource 2007. The first destination of the destination and use it level meeting was held proportionately for tourism on 16th May 2007. The purposes”, he said. Destination Level Responsible According to data from the Tourism Committee and state Tourism Department, the three working groups 1,200 families in Kumarakom in economic, environmental have benefited from the RT and social areas were initiatives so far.A total 567 formed in this meeting. women found employment A second meeting of the and almost 600 homesteads DLRTC was held on 27th are reportedly engaged in Nov 2007 before the official farming. inauguration of RT on 14th They are growing March 2008. Kumarakom vegetables and fruits for use Grama Panchayat took the in the tourism sector.“About lead in implementing the 45 families are involved in RT concept at Kumarakom. the ‘village life experience’ Among the four destinations package where they help where RT is initiated in the tourists get a glimpse of State, implementation of RT is considered to be most indigenous livelihood like coir-making and toddysuccessful at Kumarakom. get good revenue. What we have to think about is its sustainability”, he said.

Q&A Medha Sampat, Director, Knack Marketing & India representative for Argentina Tourism, has been in the industry for over 22 years. And she says it is her ability to take every challenge as an opportunity that helped her achieve outstanding success in the industry.

travellers allowing them to create unique itineraries. The Indian travellers have matured in recent years and are hungry to explore new destinations. Offering Argentina to the Indian market will create great I entered the tourism experiences. Travellers are industry 22 years ago. The willing to discover new areas journey began one summer and are intrigued with fresh and from then on, I have attractions. They have become never looked back. I am experimental with the various still in the tourism business. travel alternatives available The journey has been truly and will give them that great amazing and the experience opportunity to discover a new in the travel industry is so diverse that it takes you to all destination. Argentina has a lot to offer from the buzzing types of places. urban cities, to the majestic As the Representative for glaciers, to the energetic Argentina Tourism, what Iguazu falls â&#x20AC;&#x201C; named as one were the initial of the seven natural wonders changes you adopted of the world, to the beautiful to attract tourists? wine regions in Mendoza, Promoting San Juan and Salta, and so Argentina will much more. It is unexplored, be an amazing unique and a treasure worth opportunity. discovering! Argentina is Brief us about your first a relatively assignment in the tourism new sector? destination I started my career as a for the summer trainee and I always Indian cherish my experience as a Market. trainee. In those days the This travel industry had a lot of applies for both â&#x20AC;&#x201C; government restrictions. Technology has changed the business way we work today but in and the earlier days, we had to do leisure tourism. everything manually. When I started my first assignment, It is an I knew that I was going to be absolute in the tourism sector forever. wonder for leisure I just loved it and then over a period of time you tend to develop a passionate relationship with your work and it becomes a part of you. This passionate feeling allows you to explore and experience so much. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s addictive! The tourism sector is a very inspiring and change savvy sector. Being a woman what was the motivation behind your idea of venturing into this sector and that too with great confidence?

You will be having great moments of glory which you have achieved in the long run of your career. Can you share with us your proudest

ASIAN TRAVELLER | JULY 2013

Q&A moments of achievements with us? Starting my own company KNACK has been the proudest moment in my life. I am using all my experience from being a tour operator to the head of a tourism board, to add further value to my company. The travel industry and the profile of the Indian traveller are changing very rapidly. Every day is a fresh day and you end up learning something new. Being in sync with those changes and creating innovative strategies to enhance the travel experience makes me happy. Being a woman what were the hurdles you faced from the industry? Challenges are a part of any industry. What fun is a career without any challenges? After all

ASIAN TRAVELLER | JULY 2013

we are in the business to create experiences. It's the challenges that actually get you going. You either look at a challenge as an obstacle or an opportunity. Embrace your challenges and soon everything will get more exciting. Treat each challenge as an opportunity. I would say that I had to face many opportunities and it only taught me more. These opportunities helped me grow and it is a learning process which one will never receive in any training institute.

view, hospitality industry job is not a story of bouquets and batons all the time. Brief us from your own experience how you handle these situations with calm and dignity?

If one is focussed, hard working and can deliver what you commit you will make your mark everywhere. The travel industry has been generous to us and always welcomed us with open arms. We are very grateful for all the support and the strength that we have been able to draw How do you rate your success from it. story so far? Who is the most inďŹ&#x201A;uential

moments of your life which you spend with your family? I spend most of my free time with my family. I cherish being with them and we do enjoy our holidays together. Seeing my parents happy is priceless for me. What are your future aspirations and plans about your career?

As time has gone by the world has become a closer place. Travel has become more accessible which has given many people the opportunity to experience more... thus keeping me on my toes. It gives me immense pleasure to It has been a fulfilling person in your life.? offer the extraordinary. I take experience. Success comes One may be influenced by work as it comes and flow with hard work, creativity and many, but what matters most with it and hope to offer my commitment. I cannot rate my is the support you receive. My services to many more. There story but I am very thankful family is my biggest support have been many surprises and for everything. especially my mother. as I say â&#x20AC;&#x153;travel takes you to all From the career point of types of placesâ&#x20AC;?. Share with us the lighter

In Focus

Destination Karnataka K

arnataka, in the South West of India is a prominent tourism hub, attracting tourists from across the world. Karnataka tourism has seen a boost owing to its capital, Bangalore emerging as the IT centre of the country. The flourish in tourism has triggered the mushrooming of resorts and home-stays across the state facilitating a better travel experience. Karnataka tourism has a lot to offer in the 30 districts of the state. The state throws a wide range of locations and spots for the one struck by wanderlust whether he is an adventurer, an explorer or the one who is simply smitten by unravelling scenic surprises. The undulating wonders,

creating valleys of pastures green in Coorg, has earned the name, 'The Scotland of India'. This hill station is an important part of Karnataka tourism. Chikmagalur, the coffee land of Karnataka, is a quiet, tranquil town packed with scenic surprises, hills, valleys, streams and snow-white coffee blossoms. Bangalore, Mysore, Mangalore etc are major cities in the state while a lot others are emerging to become. Bangalore is a truly metropolitan city with its diverse culture, IT companies, Malls etc with the others are catching up with it. Bangalore South India's most alive city, there are no outsiders in Bangalore. A melting

Victoria Layout hint that the city does get sentimental about its past. The Bangalore Palace, the Attara Kacheri (High Court), St. Marys Basilica, Tipus Palace, ISKCON Temple and the Bull Temple highlight Bangaloreâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s point of ethnic and cultural many personalities and backgrounds, the hoi polloi are monuments that mark of Bangalore is charmingly its journey, ante-IT. Now mixed. Nearly every one Bangalore is known for its speaks English, even if thriving industry and as an itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s only a smattering, and IT hotbed. Lonely Planet everyone is aware of the rating the city as the No.3 privilege they're bestowed destination in the Best Travel with. Yes, every resident of Cities in 2012 has made Bangalore, regardless if where Bangalore an overnight star, they're from, takes immense if it wasnt already. Almost pride in their address. Malls, at the heart of South India, parks, pubs, theatre, cafes, this cosmopolitan city is art galleries, palaces - at everything a world city needs any given point, Bangalore to be: pleasant weather, is buzzing and alive with pleasant people and pleasant activity. hangouts. And for its people, A bustling city today, being Bangalored has a rather Bangalore often reminisces affectionate tone to it. about its days as a sleepy Hampi cantonment area of the From atop the Matanga British - tree lined avenues Hill at daybreak, Hampi is with quaint sounding names every inch the capital city of a like Richmond Town and golden empire. Though what ASIAN TRAVELLER | JULY 2013

In Focus

Hampi gives an impression of preserving itself for the past to resume. The wedding ceremony of Shiva and Parvati is celebrated every year at the Virupaksha Temple, as it has been for centuries. The long bazaar avenues stand in expectant silence, as if waiting for that kind of commerce to

is worth the while. Just like the 10 km trek to the gorgeous Habe Falls is - its almost impossible by vehicle and is inaccessible in the monsoons. Despite all that coffee, Chikmagalur is far from a gracious host. You need to work hard to win her affections. Well, its not for nothing Chikmagalur was a princess dowry. When King Rugmagada Rayas younger daughter was given away in marriage, she brought with her a pretty portion of the Western Ghats as her Hampi has challenged time, dowry, thus giving the place its name - Chikka-magalsurvived the uru or Younger Daughter's centuries and Village. Long treks, safaris lived to tell the and breathing plenty of tale. And, they resume, where diamonds and fresh, coffee-scented air say, if you listen precious stones were used Chikmagalur makes you feel carefully enough, you might as currency. In the evenings, learn a thing or two on how to so good that you want to like a zillions dusks before, throw your arms around the do the same. the dying rays of the sun world. Chikmagalur turn the entire Vijaya Vittala Mysore Chikmagalur has played Temple to gold; a sight which Mysore is yet to, and host to an event, thanks to is as much a wonder as the perhaps will never, get over which, countless Indians temple's 56 musical pillars its past. A past thats made of that produce the sounds of 56 wake up to brighter mornings. kings, queens, conquests, rich different musical instruments. Centuries ago, when the Sufi mystic Baba Budan smuggled patrons, extravagant durbars The Royal Enclosure waits in and pearled hallways must be seven coffee beans from readiness for its sandalwood Yemen into India, he probably hard to get over. The streets halls to be returned, the in Mysore are old and a good didn't bargain for millions massive elephant stables, the part of history can be traced of coffee junkies unwittingly Lotus Mahal - shaped like by following their winding blessing his soul everyday, a lotus blossoming in the with every sip of their coffee. paths. The city that gets its sun, the Hazararama Palace name from Mahishasura, the Chikmagalur, whose hills temple with intricate stories troublemaker demon who carved over its every side and nurtured the coffee culture at was slain by the Goddess its bosom, is a green slice of the Mahanavmi Dibba or the Chamundeshwari: whose Victory Platform still majestic heaven on a permanent coffee temple atop the Chamundi high. and proud await to fall Hill watches all over the city, Rambling hills, pristine back into routine. The sheer has played host to the reign of pools, fascinating nooks detail of the carvings and the a long line of Wadiyars, Tipu number of sculptures speak of and crannies with a shrine, Sultan and the British Raj. a race of artisans that weren't intriguing caves, lush mists All roads in Mysore lead and dreamy woods make the quite done in their business to the Mysore Palace, and geography of Chikmagalur. of outdoing each other in rightfully so. An ode to The journey to the highest craftsmanship. Monolithic magnificence, the Mysore peak in Karnataka is so structures carved out of a Palace is a marvel of ornate engaging that one forgets single rock the imposing ceilings, jewelled corridors, to be scared - when there Lakshmi Narasimha, the open mandaps, stained glass is reason to be afraid, very majestic Stone Chariot, the windows, vivid paintings afraid. The roads are tricky, massive Ganesha statues, and Wadiyar memorabilia yes, but getting to the top the Badavilinga are proof of

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the brilliance that was once envied. Cross the Tungabadra River over to the ancient capital of Anegundi and there are leisurely roads to traverse, myths to chase and boulders to scale and dive off, into the waiting arms of the Sanapur Lake.

lies before are but the bones of an enchantress, who once had the whole world in her sway, Hampi is far from what one would call ruins. Once visited by the Portuguese, Arabs, Persians and Orientals, the capital city of Vijayanagara, has only grown in popularity across the centuries. And no surprise that! Every bend in the road is punctuated by a 14th century, if not older, temple; perched on nearly every hillock is a four-pillared canopy-like monument and its entire horizon, pixilated by huge gestalt-ish boulders. The regal 9-storey tall gopura of the Virupaksha Temple, where Siva is believed to have married Parvati, watches over the city like a speciallyappointed god - its memory of magnificence and grandeur forever etched in stone.

In Focus including the jewelled throne. As the main host of the famous Mysore Dasara, the Palace still has the airs of the headquarters of a sovereign. Mysores other palaces include the Jaganmohana Palace, Rajendra Vilas, Lalitha Mahal (which is now the Lalith Mahal Palace Hotel) and the Jayalakshmi Vilas. They make it all big and grand at Mysore or so it appears. St. Philomenas Church is awe-inspiring with its Neo-gothic style, built along the lines of the Cologne Cathedral in Germany. The 12th century Chamundeshwari Temple built in the style of the Hoysalas is no less impressive - it also boasts one of the biggest monolithic Nandi statues. If the pretty-as-apicture Brindavan Gardens are a tad too manicured for your tastes, you can always head for the wilderness of the nearby BR Hills or the Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary. The latter is comprised of six islets, teeming with water birds including painted storks and pelicans, and is located on the banks of the Cauvery thats teeming with crocodiles. A boating experience here is surreal as much as it is common - its not everyday youre within an arms length from a monster crocodile with no protective fencing in between. Mixed as the flavours are, Mysore offers

an experience that has been tried, tested and approved by royalty for centuries. Coorg Noted for its natural beauty, Coorg is a delightful hill resort in Karnataka. Studded with vast coffee plantations and sandal wood trees, Coorg offers an amazing treat to the visual and olfactory senses. Coorg is also known as Kodagu. The history of Coorg is shrouded in obscurity. However, it is believed that the place was ruled by Lingayat and Kodavas. In 1785, Tipu Sultan controlled the area. Later Coorg came into the hands of the British. Coorg of Karnataka comprises some picturesque villages which offer several excellent picnic sites. These include the magnificent Abbey Falls. Most of these are close to Madikeri, the district headquarter standing at about 5,000 feet above sea level. Tadevendamol, the highest peak in the region is ideal for trekking. The peak will give you a wonderful view of the Arabian Sea nearby. Nagarhole National Park is the perfect place for wildlife lovers. Coorg in Karnataka also comprises a few charming temples. Located at the junction of the Cauvery and Sujyothi, the Bagamandala Temple is

constructed in accordance with typical Kerala style. The Omkareshwara Temple, consecrated to lord Shiva is another notable religious site. The temple is almost 200 years old. Karwar Karwar, on the western coast of the Indian Peninsula, lies just 15 kilomters from the district of Goa and 520 kilometers from the state captial of Bangalore. It is the district headquarters of the Uttara Kannada district and is a historic town as it has been a vibrant trading post from the 15th century onwards.

Arabians and now the Indian Navy have taken advantage of its location. The Kali River joins the Arabian Sea very close to Karwar, where the famous Sadhashivagud Fort has been built next to the Kali River Bridge. The river, the bridge, the fort in the distance and the gently swaying coconut trees paint a perfect picture for tourists.

Fishing and tourism are the two main industries here, apart from the port. The pristine beaches with their golden sands, the coconut and casuarinas trees and the surrounding unspoilt areas offer tourists a rare haven. As it is a natural harbor Water sports like snorkeling, that lies in close proximity to swimming, surfing and diving the spice treasures of Kerala; are available in the many the Portuguese, the British, the beautiful beaches of Karwar like Dev Bagh, Koodi and Kaju Bagh, making the place ideal for adventure tourists. There are also many historic temples, churches and mosques and mausoleums for those interested in sightseeing. There are ancient art works and amazing architectural sites to be found in these temples.

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Rajasthan

Hill Forts of Rajasthan Abin. K. I. writes about the hill forts of Rajasthan and its UNESCO heritage tags

ajasthan famed as the land of Kings made Incredible India pride as its six hill forts located on Aravalli ranges make it way to the world heritage list. Chittorgarh, Kumbhalgarh, Jaisalmer, Ranthambhore (SawaiMadhopur), Gagron (Jhalawar) and Amber (Jaipur) are the six forts which are located on the rocky terrains of the Aravalli Mountains. The forts are located in the districts of Chittorgarh, Rajsamand, SawaiMadhopur, Jaisalmer, Jaipur and

Jhalawar respectively. The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) protects the first three while the rest are under state Archaeology Department. Hill Forts were recognized as serial World Heritage Sites in the 37th session of the World Heritage Committee (WHC) held in Phnom Penh, Cambodia during June 2013. With the inclusion of hill forts of Rajasthan the total number of heritage sites from the country is now thirty consisting of twenty

four cultural sites and six natural sites. JantarMantar was the last site selected from Rajasthan to the world heritage list way back in 2010.Rajasthan's iconic fort architecture received international recognition with the UNESCO, in the first of its kind decision, recognizing six hill forts of the State as world heritage sites. Unique Architecture made the difference Hill Forts truly represents the "military hill architecture" of the Rajputs who ruled Rajasthan. The mixed architecture of the forts, some up to 20 km in circumference, bears testimony to the supremacy of the Rajput princely States that flourished in the region in between 8th to the 18th centuries. Enclosed within defensive walls are major urban centers, palaces, trading centers and other buildings including temples that often predate the fortifications within which developed an elaborate courtly culture that supported learning, music and the arts,” the WHC said in its official declaration. The World Heritage Committee took special note of the forts use of the natural defenses offered by the terrain. The forts use the natural defenses offered by the landscapes such as hills, deserts, rivers and dense forests. They also feature extensive water harvesting structures largely which is still in use today. The extensive fortifications up to 20 kilometers in circumference optimized various kinds of hill terrain, specifically the river at Gagron, the dense forests at Ranthambore and the desert at Jaisalmer and exhibit important phase of development of an architectural typology based on established traditional

Indian principles. Properties inscribed from India into the World Heritage List Presently the World Heritage List includes 981 properties forming part of the cultural and natural heritage which the World Heritage Committee considers as having outstanding universal value. These include 759 cultural, 193 natural and 29 mixed properties in 160States Parties.India has currently thirty sites listed in the UNESCO heritage list . Heritage Status – “Advantage for Rajasthan Tourism” Culture and Heritage are the prime assets of Rajasthan which consists of forts, havelies, fairs & festivals. Among them forts areone of the unique products of the state. With the inclusion of hill forts the total number of heritage sites from Rajasthan is now three.The heritage status of hill forts will definitely reinforce Rajasthan's position as a favored tourist destination on the global tourism map during the upcoming tourist season. The selection of these hill forts is truly a reflection of the past work done by the rajputs and the sustainable conservation strategies adopted by the state and Archaeological Survey of India. To conclude cultural heritage tourism is significant for a country like India because it has a positive economic and social impact, it establishes and reinforces cultural identity, it helps to preserve the cultural heritage of the destinations, with culture as an attraction it facilitates greater harmony and understanding among host and guest, it supports culture and helps to renew tourism in a responsible way.

ASIAN TRAVELLER | JULY 2013

Tamil Nadu Traveller

Adventure in Tamil Nadu Bestowed with several ideal locations for the adventure sports, Tamil Nadu attracts large number of adventure seekers from all over the world. Most important things to do include Hang Gliding, Trekking, Water Sports, Boating, and much more, says Dr. S Bakhtavatchalam.

amil Nadu has always been associated with temples and therefore its image of being a destination for spiritual experience. This typical image has attracted a number of tourists that belong to the middle age group. It is true that the state has a number of historically important temples and pilgrim centres but we should not forget that Tamil Nadu also has immense potential to lure the youth who wish to have some adventure in their holidays. We have got more than 20 waterfalls, 12 hill stations, many water bodies, a dozen boat houses, a long coast line and many wildlife sanctuaries, which can offer thrill and unique experience to the youth. Trekking, mountaineering, camping, water sports, boating and

bird watching can be done successfully in Tamil Nadu to engage the youth and make them repeatedly visit our State in large numbers. Therefore, Tamil Nadu Tourism is keen to promote this innovative aspect of tourism in a big way by mobilising resources at all levels. Aqua sports Adventure boats, water scooters, kayaks and banana boats are available at Muttukadu and Mudaliarkuppam. Muttukadu, located at a distance of 36 km from Chennai, is a small town which serves as the most preferred picnic spot. Muttukadu is adorned with greenery, including coconut trees and lush grassland to provide ample shade and to give relaxation to the visitors, making the environment

pollution free and breezy. Helped by the fact that the backwaters and the facility of boat house have been developed by the Tamil Nadu Tourism Development Corporation for the visitors to stay and enjoy, the place is visited by hordes every year who come here to enjoy their holidays. The main attraction of this place is windsurfing regatta which is organized every year in the month of February, plus many other water games such as kayaking, boating, canoeing, etc are organized here. Those who are adventurous and fun loving, they can also join the training programs which are held in Muttukadu. No wonder it is visited by thrill seekers as well as peace lovers form India and abroad. Mudaliarkuppam is a

ASIAN TRAVELLER | JULY 2013

Tamil Nadu Traveller as Panthers, Sambar, Bison, Wild Buffaloes etc. Kalahatty is wellconnected by a motorable road, you can hire private taxis or cars from Ooty to reach this place. March to May and September to November is the best time to enjoy hang gliding in Nilgiris. As Hang Gliding is not much popular in Niligiris, so the Madras (Chennai) Hang Gliders Association (MHGA) lush tea gardens and coffee popular place of interest that plantations, but is also famous is taking special interest on attracts myriads of tourists as a wonderful destination for popularizing this adventure from all parts of the country. sport. The Madras HangMudaliarkuppam is located in the adventure sport of Hang Gliders Association provides Gliding. the district of Kanchipuram, essential training as well as Just 20 kms from Ooty, 92 km from Chennai and 36 motorized hang gliders to Kalahatty in Nilgiris is a km down Mamallapuram perfect place for undertaking gliding enthusiasts. on ECR (East Coast Road). Angling Hang Gliding expedition. Mudaliarkuppam is an Angling is an interesting incredible tourist destination. Start off your gliding trip from pastime for the tourists. There Tourism industry in the idyllic the launch pad at Kalahatty are several water resources and fly over the densely place is growing by leaps in Tamil Nadu, which are covered forested areas, small and bounds. Visitors and villages and some unexplored identified for Angling. In tourists visit this place alike, the Nilgiri's the waters of regions. Apart from these, if to while away their time on Mukkurthi Lake and the the choicest array of rowboats, you are lucky, you may get a glimpse of some wild animals river, Gurmund river and pedal boats and motorboats. reservoir, Avalanchi and in the sanctuary below. The Tamil Nadu Tourism Emarald river, Peermund, Kalahatty waterfall is Development Corporation Chambar, Kallkundi Streams, undertakes and preserves this another attraction on this Upper Bhavani Reservoir, criss-country route, which unusual boating house. Bilitha dakulla River, Bhavani you can cover on your Hang-Gliding Puzha, Aradha Puzha, gliding trip. Also known as The Nilgiri ranges in Parsons Valley Stream and 'Kalahasti Falls', Kalahatty Tamil Nadu is renowned not Reservoir, Kings Dhar Stream, waterfall is home to a wide just for its pristine natural Western Catchment Reservoir, variety of wild animals such beauty, charming towns,

ASIAN TRAVELLER | JULY 2013

Thirupanthurai, Emeri Puzha, Silent Valley streams etc are the water for excellent trout fishing. In Kodaikkanal hills, trout streams are Pulavachiyar and Konalar. Carp fishing is recommended in kodi lake. In addition the state's 900 kms long coastal line provides you for ample marine fishing. Apart from providing adventure sports activities, Tamil Nadu Tourism is also co-ordinating with Environment and Forest Department in conducting Trekking programme in lesser known low altitude hill stations. Variety of adventure sports were introduced in Island grounds with private participation. Paragliding in Yelagiri attracted tourists in large numbers. The Nilgiris are a trekker's paradise. Landscaped by nature, the hills abound in trek for lovers of nature. There are treks and treks in whichever direction you turn and from whichever point you start. A trek can be full of thrill, excitement and adventure and a way of seeing and enjoying nature in all its beauty and splendour. Udhagamandalam (Ooty) offers several trek routes, which vary in distance, altitudes and trkterrain. There is a base camp at Parsons valley, from where one can start trekking to various points within Western Ghats. The down hills of Western Ghats on the North ends up with meeting the extensions of Eastern Ghats, where the sprawling Mudumalai Sanctuary lies which opens vistas for adventure tourists. Trekking pamphlets are available with the Nilgiri Wildlife and Environment Association (NWLEA). There are guides who have sound knowledge of certain areas. If necessary, their services may be hired. 19

Interview

Dubai Destination for All Carl Vaz, Director - Dubai's Department of Tourism & Commerce Marketing, retraces his 15-year journey in promoting Dubai as a destination in the Indian market The Arabian Travel Mart is treated as one of the prestigious events of the travel industry, how do you evaluate the participation of DTCM at ATM 2013 ? DTCM India's participation at this year’s Arabian Travel Market has been exceptional with an overwhelming response. The platform provided us with an opportunity to interact with a significantly higher number of travel agents, tour operators and even wedding planners from various parts of India. Owing to the growth of Indian travelers to Dubai during 2012 which stood at over 760,000; there has been extensive interest amongst the trade to update their knowledge and own experience. One of our key focus areas for 2013 is to tap the wedding and honeymoon segment. In line with this strategy, we have interacted with several planners during ATM to drive ahead larger number of Indian themed weddings into Dubai. DTCM is actively promoting the ‘summer is Dubai’ campaign . Can you elaborate on this? For the months of June to September, DTCM will be actively promoting the 'Summer is Dubai' campaign which is a great opportunity for families to take in the city for a short break with innumerable discounts and offers for children. Most participating hotels and attractions are offering complimentary stay, food and entry to attractions for kids during the period. The promotion has been extremely successful in India during 20

previous years and this year's edition will be equally successful. At the ATM, we have been educating our trade partners on the product and the new developments especially with a focus on attractions that have been recently launched." Brief us about your immediate strategies to tap the Indian market? Going forward for 2013, we aim to achieve a double digit growth over 2012 by tapping segments such as wedding / honeymoon, small family segment holiday breaks, school groups and adventure / sport seekers. Now a days tourism industry is actively focusing on MICE and related exhibitions. Tell us more about your plans in business tourism area? For the MICE and Business Tourism industry we will be actively participating at EIBTM in Mumbai and will be working closely with several trade members to bring in not only the numbers but more high yielding incentive and groups to Dubai. During the year we will tap various industry corporate segments in order to promote the plethora of exhibitions that are conducted and held at Dubai World Trade Center. Some of these exhibitions such as Arab Health, Big 5, GITEX, Gulf Food receive large level of Indian participation as exhibitions and visitors. Our aim will be to showcase the many other exhibitions and events conducted in Dubai so that the overall number of exhibitions and visitors from India increase significantly."

DTCM plays a key role in the developmental aspects of tourism sector. So what are the areas where DTCM is actively involved in this regard? DTCM is the principal authority for planning and supervising the development of the tourism sector. It is responsible for the classification of hotels, hotel apartments and guesthouses in the emirate. This is to ensure international standards and high levels of customer satisfaction with regards to visitor’s accommodation. Additionally, DTCM provides guidelines with regards to special needs tourism and green tourism among others .DTCM is also responsible for administrative tasks related to the issuance of tourism licenses, follow-up with the licensing procedures comprising preliminary approvals, renewal, amendment and cancellation. It is also responsible for administrative tasks related to the issuance of permanent and temporary tourism activity permits, follow-ups and inspections of such authorized activities to ensure their compliance with the laws and regulations implemented in Dubai.

Tell us about your career success? Understanding people is an art I believe this has helped me a great deal over the last 15 years. "The experience is very enriching and helps you understand consumer psychographics. I know why people prefer certain brands, what they aspire for or what their perceptions are thanks to my long stint in advertising .When I started working towards promoting Dubai, one of my main goals was to influence travel agents, tour operators, tourists and the public at different levels and my background helped me to achieve this. How do you rate Dubai as a destination? Dubai is the number three destination. There's adventure, there's something for the elderly traveller, spas for women and also shopping and culture. So, it is an all encompassing destination that offers you Arabic hospitality and culture mixed with 21st century comfort. Our team has actively worked on transitioning Dubai from being a stop-over destination to a complete destination in itself. It was a challenge and I enjoy challenges.

ASIAN TRAVELLER | JULY 2013

1 Person st

Out of the Box Thinker Prem Joseph, Director of Sales & Marketing, Hyderabad Marriott Hotel & Convention Centre and Courtyard by Marriott, Hyderabad, thinks that in a very competitive market and a struggling economy, marketers should ensure every rupee spent gets its due return on investment. They need to think strategically and creatively where we want to spend the money, Prem Joseph elaborates in an exclusive interview with Asian Traveller

Sales and marketing is considered as the pillar of any organisation and you being the head tell us how you came to this field? I would rather describe Sales and Marketing (S&M) as a critical link in a cyclic chain of events that needs to take place for a hotel to be successful. Remember that S&M promises and creates expectation levels in the customerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s mind; you need a strong operations team to ensure that those expectations

are not only met but exceeded as well. I joined the Taj group of hotels in F&B operations (service) and worked with the company for a couple of years. Here is where I got my first whiff of S&M as I would always look at ways to promote my restaurant both to in house and non resident guests. While I never considered S&M as a career path, I was always interested in training and development. With that ambition in

ASIAN TRAVELLER | JULY 2013

First Person and they will take care of the guests". This applies across the board irrespective of your In terms of tactics I believe position in the company. it is always important to think Hence no matter what the out of the box. While the pressures, we always strive to message is important, with the maintain a healthy work life amount of clutter that exists balance. At the end of the day in the market it is imperative it’s all about proper planning, to ensure your message including when you want to stands out and is retained go on a holiday. in the customer’s mind. In Any future agenda for your Tourism and travelling a very competitive market clients? is a fun filled and change and a struggling economy, oriented business. How do as marketers we are required Our endeavour has always you enjoy your job? to ensure every rupee spent been to remain one step ahead gets its due ROI (Return on in the game. In our industry The greatest joy for me it is important to recognise comes from the fact that in my Investment). As such we are job, the results are measurable required to think strategically the change before it happens and creatively where we want and proactively adapt both both in the short and long product and strategies to seize to spend our money. term. In other words the the opportunity the change gratification is instant. It is a When you help people provides. If you are forced to sheer adrenaline rush when explore the world what sort change by the market then you can see and prove your of satisfaction do you derive you are already too late. Of strategies, action plans, tactics out of it? the many things we are doing etc are working. By nature I I guess the most exciting in The biggest take away tend to be a very competitive my perspective is the opening I have from this industry person. This drives me to of the first Fairfield hotel in till date is the connections I constantly strive for my Bangalore. With this we will have created not only in the hotel to do better than the bring into the country a new country but across the globe. competition and when you wave of budget but efficient I really can’t think of that achieve that against all odds, hotels no one can wipe the smile off about many other jobs that How do you market the would give one this kind of your face. changes in the industry? exposure. There is always an Is there any inspiration element of mutual respect The key is to recognise factor for you to come to this and understanding when the change or opportunity field? one exposes someone to new that is not being serviced culture and likewise when To be honest, no, but and then adapt to cater to the one gets exposed as well. In I would always remain same. This would give you short it is the satisfaction of thankful to my parents for a first mover’s advantage. giving me my space and time understanding the world with If the need is genuine and an open mind and a fresh pair the product caters to it the to find out what I wanted to of eyes. word will spread out. Think do in life. They trusted me of utilities like LinkedIn to make my own decisions How do you manage your and Facebook. It surely isn’t and more importantly, let me own holidays amidst your always possible to come up make my share of mistakes business schedule? with such ground breaking with the knowledge that they Marriott has been voted ideas. We need to keep the would always be there for me this year again as amongst the basic premise in mind that in as long as I took responsibility top ten companies to work hospitality marketing is not for my actions. for in India. One of the main about educating clients of the reasons for this is our belief Describe us about the art changes in the market but and execution of what Bill of marketing? Give us a more of helping them realise Marriott has always believed few tips on your marketing an unsatisfied want that they - “take care of your associates have and how your product/ tactics? mind I resigned from the Taj to pursue a full time MBA in Human Resource Management. I still remember the day when a professor of mine advised me that “you will certainly be a good HR manager but you would be 10 times better in S&M than in HR". Fortunately I took his advice and the rest is history.

ASIAN TRAVELLER | JULY 2013

To me marketing is no rocket science.

service can cater to that. Personally speaking which is your favourite tourism spot? This may be the toughest question in this interview. I am predominantly a biker and have many memories of the trips I have had on my Bullet to places like Bhutan, Cherrapunji, Ladakh, Rajasthan as well as a few international rides in Australia and US. My wife and daughters would rather go to places that have a lot of shopping and theme parks (Singapore, Hong Kong etc). But the one place we all love as a family are the beaches of Maldives. Have you ever thought of selling some new ideas and concepts for the people who really go for changes? For me the questions I always ask myself before undertakings any endeavour is l Is it profitable both in the short and long term ? l Does my product cater to that requirement? l Is it deviating from my core strength or does it derive from the same? Any secret tips for the marketing professionals? It wouldn’t be a secret if I told you, would it? Jokes apart I wish there was a secret formula. By virtue and blessing of having two daughters aged 6 and 3 I get to watch a lot of cartoons, and our favourite cartoon is Kung Fu Panda. In that there is a scene where the Panda says “there is no secret ingredient......it’s all you"Your success in whatever you do depends on you and you only.

PROFILE

ETM OUSHADHASALA

Preserving a Rich Tradition

n Kerala, Ayurveda, one of the most systematic and efficacious methods for restoration of health, has been preserved in its pristine sanctity, thanks to the ardent and orthodox devotion of a handful of traditional families of Ashtavaidyans; the foremost among them have been the Thaikkattu Mooss family. In 1914, as an organized venture E. T. M Vaidyasala was established and had since been synonymous with Ayurveda, its competence, reliability and efficacy to eradicate diseases and to restore good health. The Thaikkattu Mooss E T M Oushadhasala (India) Ltd. is a natural landmark that began with the epoch of 1914, stands high apart symbolising and legitimising the rich legacy it embodies. The latest technology and

manufacturing methods employed here are designed to achieve the pristine ethos, values and efficacy of the time-tested Ayurvedic remedies. ETM have effectively implemented the state-of-theart methods in the selection, cleaning, processing and storage of various herbs and other medicinal raw materials and the production and preservation of medicinesare meticulously supervised by traditional Physicians and professionally qualified Specialists in the fully equipped factory. The Thaikkattu Mooss E T M Oushadhasala (India) Ltd. is certified by the authorities that it amply meets all the specifications and standards stipulated by the Governments for â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Good Manufacturing Practices (G.

M. P)â&#x20AC;&#x2122;. The company has ISO 9001 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 2000 certification. ETM is the first to qualify and obtain this international certification among the Ashtavaidyans Ayurvedic Pharmacies in Kerala.

science of life. The nursing home provides Panchakarma treatment, a unique medical heritage that has perhaps the longest unbroken history in imparting rejuvenating effect on human body and mind. Panchakarma involves five steps: Vamanam, Vivechanam, Vasti, Nasyam and Rakthamoksham. ETM is one of the leading manufacturers of quality Ayurvedic drugs on a commercial scale and the products are reckoned as top class by the knowledgeable people who love and foster Ayurveda. In keeping with the time the factory has been modernized as per good manufacturing processes regulations. ETM is standardizing all the formulations. The research and development lab keeps a strict vigil on the quality of drugs.

Apart from the Government of Kerala, the Central Government has also approved the medicines where by the employees of the Central Government, Public Sector and Joint Sector Undertakings are eligible under Reimbursement Scheme. These certifications The demand for drug speak eloquently of the plants is increasing national and international day by day leading to levels of quality and standards overexploitation of valuable at ETM. plants resulting in depletion E.T.M Health Resort of many species in the wild. is one of the most sought Realizing that the need of after destinations for those the hour is the conservation who prefer to be healed and promotion of medicinal by the pristine tradition of plants, cultivation based on Ayurveda- the ancient Indian supply demand position ETM has initiated cultivation of valuable medicinal plant species in the land in its possession. 'The right plant in the right place' is the criterion of selection of plants. The collection of drug plants at ETM includes those plants found in the ICUN check list and those figured in the red data book.

ASIAN TRAVELLER | JULY 2013

PROFILE

erala Ayurveda Ltd(KAL), (www. keralaayurveda. biz) , one of India’s oldest Ayurvedic companies, today part of the Katra group, is founded on the Ayurvedic philosophy that all of life is about the achievement of harmony and balance between physical, mental and emotional states. There is no one treatment -fits- all approach possible in Ayurveda. Because the belief is that disease creeps in when an individual is in a state of disharmony physically, mentally or emotionally, an ethical Ayurveda practice must deliver healing methods which correct imbalances in any, or all three.

Kerala Ayurveda Delivering Holistic Healing ingredients.

KAL’s work over the past couple of years have This is why Kerala borne fruit with a portfolio Ayurveda Ltd. conceptualised of proprietary Ayurvedic The Healing Arc: a series formulations being put of interventions through through the rigors of modern Ayurveda which together scientific validation. Clinical have the power to deliver studies are also initiated with authentic holistic healing. Banaras Hindu University. At the Apex of this Arc is The WHO had envisioned the research and development that such studies are critical program of KAL, recognized to validate the scientific basis by the Indian Government. for Traditional therapies. Over 24 effective formulations KAL’sendeavor is to for various chronic illnesses unequivocally demonstrate have already been created by Purity, Safety and Clinical the KAL scientists. Efficacy and create a robust KAL’s Global Research pipeline of products that are team has taken up various differentiated, pure, safe and Research initiatives in a have scientific substantiation synergistic manner to deliver of efficacy. remarkable value to place our When completed these new Ayurvedic formulations and formulations will join the vast be benchmarked with pharma range of authentic medicines and personal care products that KAL already has under its retail umbrella. While of course KAL products are widely used by Vaidyans ( Ayurvedic doctors) around the country, the holistic approach has dictated that KAL set up its own clinics and treatment centers where doctors are available and medicines and treatments can 26

be delivered.

ambience as well.

In clinics across Kerala and in Bangalore, Chennai, Hyderabad, Jaipur, Mumbai, Delhi and Jammu, KAL doctors use their holistic skills to heal, supported by KAL medicines and over 45 Ayurvedic therapies delivered mainly by therapists trained in KAL’s own Training Academy at Aluva in Kerala.

Keeping in mind patient needs and the goal of delivering the whole Healing Arc therefore, KAL began 3 in-patient facilities. All three focus on impeccable medical standards and patient care. Each of the three has been carefully crafted to help different types of people reach the goal of healing and a healthy life.

There are unfortunately illnesses which demand a higher degree of care and intervention than can be provided on an out patient basis.Moreover yoga, meditation and pranayama coupled with the right tailor made diet are essential parts of the healing mix. Analysis of patient needs shows that beyond all the interventions, for some people beautiful, natural surroundings and living comfort help them to heal.Some are perfectly happy with high standards of medical skill, authentic treatments,yoga and medicines allied with functional,economical accommodation and food. Others need an aesthetic

The Aluva hospital is a well equipped full service hospital dedicated to bringing authentic Ayurveda to the largest group of patients that it can reach. Its reputation for affordable healing brings it patients not only from all parts of India,but from across the globe. The newly opened River Retreat on the banks of the Periyar in Aluva is a full service hospital with a shading of the serenity that a well- run facility beside a beautiful river offers. Meditation and yoga gazing out over the tree fringed river as the sun sets is an experience that can bring peace to the soul.

ASIAN TRAVELLER | JULY 2013

NEWSLINE

Thailand Wins “Best International Shangri-La Hotel, Travel Destination” Award Dubai Celebrates MSI Newswire | Thailand

hailand won the “Best International Travel Destination” award at the seventh edition of CNBC AWAAZ Travel Awards, organised in association with Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation held at The Lalit, Mumbai on 25th June 2013. Director of TAT New Delhi Office, Runjuan Tongrut, received the award on behalf of Amazing Thailand. She said, “We are very delighted and honoured to receive this prestigious award. The entire team would like to thank the jury members and all the voters for the immense support. We will continue our endeavour to promote new destinations, products and attractions and look forward to receiving many more of your guests and clients.”

Ten Years

The event was presided by Prithviraj Chavan, Chief Minister, Government of Maharashtra and Chhagan Bhujbal, Minister for Public Works & Special Assistance Department and Tourism, Government of Maharashtra.

Visit Malaysia Year 2014 Bollywood Album Launched

MSI Newswire | Dubai

MSI Newswire | Mumbai

‘T

um Mile’, the first ever IndoMalaysian music album to promote tourism has been launched in Mumbai as part of ‘Visit Malaysia Year (VMY 2014). The extravagant ceremony witnessed the unveiling of the VMY 2014Tourism ‘Tum Mile’ Bollywood Album by TohPuan Noor Suzanna Abdullah. The songs in the album were sung by Toh Puan Bendahara of Kedah, TohPuan Noor Suzanna Abdullah, member of the royal family of Kedah, Malaysia and renowned Indian Bollywood playback singer Kumar Sanu. ASIAN TRAVELLER | JULY 2013

Guests who attended the ceremony witnessed the melodies of 'Tum Mile' accompanied by live performance from TohPuan Noor Suzanna Abdullah and Kumar Sanu. The musical evening was complimented with some traditional Malay dance performances, adding the element of Malaysian culture to the celebration. As the guest swayed to the tunes of “Tum Mile”, Dato Seri Dr. Ng Yen Yen , Chairman of Tourism Malaysia , spoke about Malaysia’s tourism prowess and the initiatives from the Ministry to promote tourism as an asset to the country.

hangri-La Hotel, Dubai running to celebrate 10 years of operation implemented some exciting activities. “We are delighted to be celebrating our tenth anniversary and we hope that our guests will enjoy the celebratory activities with us. In addition to the exciting promotions, we will also be displaying a themed flower arrangement in the lobby,” said Bernhard Haechler, Vice President and General Manager of Shangri-La Hotel, Dubai. “We have some exciting plans, moving in to our next decade of operation, with a refurbishment project planned for later this year and into 2014,” Haechler added. Guests, who booked a room at ShangriLa Hotel on 10th July, were in for a treat this as the hotel was selling ten rooms for only Dhs. Children born on 8th July 2003, the hotel’s official opening date, and residing in Dubai were eligible to enjoy a complimentary birthday lunch or dinner for a maximum of ten guests at Dunes Café.

PROFILE

Sreedhareeyam –Vision for All

reedhareeyam Ayurvedic Eye Hospital & Research Centre headquartered at Koothattukulam in central Kerala is perhaps the only Ayurvedic hospital in the world that treats all ophthalmic disorders strictly according to ‘Salakya Thantra’, an important chapter in ‘Ashtanga Ayurveda’. What Dr. NPP Namboothiri, Managing Director and Chief Physician of Sreedhareeyam and the erstwhile Chief Medical Officer of the department of Health, Govt. of Kerala, started in a humble way more than a decade ago has today grown into a monolithic healthcare conglomerate with two ultra-modern Ayurvedic medicine manufacturing plants of its own. Dr.NPP Namboothiri hails from an illustrious ancestry of traditional ‘Vaidyas’. Umpteen number of patients suffering from various eye disorders, some of them after having failed by modern medicines and surgery, seek refuge here not only from India but also from foreign countries like France, Canada, the UK, Russia, Australia and the Middle East. Sreedhareeyam is the largest Ayurvedic hospital among those accredited by NABH (National Board for Accreditation of Hospitals & Healthcare Providers), the nodal agency for quality accreditation and is recognized by the department of AYUSH, Govt. of India, Ministry of Health & Family Welfare. It has 13 branches in Kerala and 15 in leading metros and cities throughout India. In Delhi,

it is functioning in tandem with the Central Council for Research in Ayurveda and Siddha. The Bilaspur and Raipur branches have been initiated in collaboration with the govt. of Chattisgarh that facilitate a large number of patients from the state and from neighboring states like Bihar, UP, Odisha etc. The Bhopal branch was launched in collaboration with MFRPARC, the Madhya Pradesh govt. agency.

life. While it describes the anatomy, clinical pathology, root-causes of all ailments and their remedial measures in the macroscopic and microscopic dimensions, it, most importantly, treats the patients rather than the diseases. Dr. NPP Namboothiri says his goal is to wipe out blindness and eye diseases completely because of all sensual organs, eyes are the most important.

Ayurveda, the hereditary “I had been serving as Indian pharmacopoeia, is Medical Officer in govt. an important canto of Rig Ayurvedic hospitals for Veda. The literal meaning of long. Many persons with Ayurveda is knowledge about

several types of eye ailments used to visit. Necessity is the mother of invention. I determined to specialize in ‘Salakya Thanthra’. Four generations of my ancestors were renowned ‘Vaidyas’ (Ayurvedic physicians). They had preserved an amazingly rare and huge collection of palm-leaf scripts. I did a meticulous search among them. Many jewels were found. To bring these textual magna carta into accomplishment was my constant efforts. It was a ‘Bhageeratha’ effort or herculean task to establish a theory into practice,” he says.

ASIAN TRAVELLER | JULY 2013

PROFILE

Nagarjuna: Experience Ayurveda the Way it was Meant to Beâ&#x20AC;Ś

agarjuna Ayurvedic Group as its very name indicates is a corporate initiative to revive Ayurveda and establish the authentic, researched and expert practice of Ayurvedic treatment for all medical ailments. By bringing Ayurveda to the forefront as a mainstream health management system, the Nagarjuna Ayurvedic Group aims to become the best solution provider in health care on a global platform. Today after 25 years, the Nagarjuna Ayurvedic Group has made great strides towards achieving this dream. Nagarjunaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s focus on treatment is best reflected in the ayurvedic treatment centre at Kalady, near Cochin city.Here, the entire range of Ayurvedic treatments are available strictly according to the classic texts. This centre specialises in Panchakarma therapy and unique Kerala treatments such as Pizhichil, Kizhi, Dhara, Sirovasthi and so on. The scenic locale of the centre on the banks of river Periyar enshrouded in green foliage and shrubbery makes it an ideal environment for rest, rejuvenation and healing.

powers of Ayurveda, the centre is slowly becoming a much sought-after destination for people the world over, who are looking for a more organic and holistic healing process. Nagarjuna Ayurvedic Centre blends deep ayurvedic insights with traditional skills to provide a range of remedies based on preventive, curative, rejuvenative and immunisation therapies.

products are researched and formulated, which are either curative or health supportive in their health care functions. And so, apart from pure medicines, there are a full range of medicated products ranging from soaps, to hair oils, to shampoos to skin care products.

Nagarjuna Kalady centre has a qualified and experienced team of seven Ayurvedic Doctors including The concept of a full-time resident Doctor ayurjeevanam views each and lady Doctors headed by individual as a unique Ayurveda Acharya Dr. C. personality, with his own Manoj Kumar. Yoga and physical, mental and social meditation are offered for traits where no two persons all guests under expert are alike in their constitution guidance. Classes on (Prakruthi). Ayurjeevanam An equable climate, ready the basics of Ayurveda, strives to enrich the life of access to a large variety of Spirituality, Indian Culture, every patient with a holistic, naturally growing medicinal comprehensive and integrated Philiosophy and Ayurvedic plants and herbs, centuries of Cooking Classes are approach to healthcare. rigorously following classical provided. An extensive About 500 traditional ayurvedic principles and herbal garden provides a Ayurvedic products are practices . All these make green and curative setting manufactured here as per ayurvedic treatments at for the centre. the traditional reference the Nagarjuna Ayurvedic The centre curently texts like Sahasrayogam, Treatment Centre highly has 20 spacious wellAshtamgahrudayam, reliable and effective. Bhaishajya ratnavali etc. over furnished A/c rooms,most Realizing the mystical curative 100 branded proprietary with a river view. Most

healthcare environments are designed for procedures rather than people, despite the fact that the surroundings are highly influential in a patientâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s recovery process. A beautiful natural ambience at Kalady inspires healing, by supporting the body, mind and spirit, and providing healthy and positive interactions. Clean and fully equipped treatment rooms (separate for men and women) with post treatment facilities.

ASIAN TRAVELLER | JULY 2013

INTERVIEW

India Experience - “Long Way to Go” Himmat Anand, the founder, Tree of Life Resort & Spa Jaipur, is a visionary in the tourism sector who thinks India Tourism needs a paradigm shift. In this exclusive interview with Asian Traveller he points out the strengths and flaws of our industry with suggestions and ideas for improvement. He says that the whole ’India experience’ has a long way to go. Please give us an overview of Tree of Life, what are the major highlights of this resort & spa? What makes it different? The Tree of Life Resort & Spa, Jaipur is all about space and privacy. We have just 13 Villas in 7 acres of land and are essentially a ‘couples’ retreat who are looking for peace, calm and solace along with the option of enjoying the sights and sounds of the ‘pink city’, as Jaipur is known. Our location, in a valley, about 30 minutes from Jaipur city centre makes us an ideal destination for being away from the noise and crowds of the city and still being close enough. Each Villa is about 1,000 sq.ft , along with a living Room, bedroom and a large bathroom. In addition, every villa has over 1,500 sq.ft of private gardens and an outdoor couples spa. Some Villas come with their own private pool. Our style of service is what we call ‘Laidback Lifestyle’ where our guests can be just who they are, without any imposing staff around them all the time – we are there when you want us. We do not do buffets and offer limited, yet very fresh and high quality meal options, which the Chef discusses with guests every day. Our activities include a visit to the nearby Village; a meal with your elephant; the opportunity to do a short teaching lesson at the village school; or The Chef in You, amongst others. Since Tree of Life is located at Jaipur, how would you rate the place’s scope as a ‘wellness destination’? What is Tree of Life contribution in luring more tourists to the

ASIAN TRAVELLER | JULY 2013

itive word about a destination destination, (especially those or come back again and again. Very unfortunately, the whole who seek rejuvenation)? ’India experience’ which I do believe that the location stems from ‘society’ has a of a property goes along in long way to go. It’s the hassles creating the feeling of ‘wellwhich start for a tourist the ness’ amongst guests. We are moment he or she steps out of not a city hotel, but just on the airport or railway station; the out skirts of the city in the to the aggression on the road; Aravali Valley. While at the to shop keepers going in for Resort, guests get a view of the kill; to hotels which only the hills in front and behind – do lip service of Atithi Devo no matter where one stands. Bhava; to the muck and filth Each of our Villas has their that one gets to see everyown outdoor couples spa, where – the list is endless. Yes, which is very popular with there certainly are many areas guests in the winter months where we have improved but when guests prefer the treatdespite having such a huge ment in the Villa itself. We wealth of tourism products, also offer yoga and meditation India tourism will never reach classes at the convenience of its full potential because our our guests – there are no fixed ‘society behaviours’ will not timings for anything. It is also allow it to do so. my firm belief that in addition Is our industry in a need of to yoga, meditation and spa exploring niche segments treatments, just the silence and the calm and serene ambi- and markets? If yes what are ence of the Tree of Life Resort they? & Spa in itself provides a balm One mistake will always make for the soul and the mind. in promoting India is that we

make it out to be “everything for everybody”. We promote the sand, the sea, shopping, monuments, cuisine, wild life, mountains, snow, and deserts – the works. This is very old fashioned. India tourism must get more product-centric and mean just a few things to everybody. Then let the States push their own USPs to woo the traveller. What travellers want most today is to get away for some days from their This is a topic which has been hectic life style and soothe discussed and debated for their mind and soul. This is decades. It is my opinion that the largest segment and sometourism cannot be devoid of thing which India can so easthe society that it exists in – it ily promote. Meditation, yoga, cannot be promoted in isolaAyurveda, the Dalia Lama, tion. Tourism today is not our various spiritual gurus about monuments – it’s about like Sri Sri, the Himalayas – the warm and amazing mothey should become India’s ments that tourists experience brand ambassadors because that makes them spread a pos- this is what the traveller is In the recently concluded International Conference on Travel Technology (ICTT) India, you have argued for making efforts to provide new and better experiences for customers. In view of this comment, what in your opinion are the major hurdles that hold back our tourism industry? What are the areas that need to be improved?

looking for. Why are we not looking at the gay and lesbian markets as a target segment – this is the fastest growing travelling segment globally and the earlier stigmas attached to it in the country are diminishing. How far updated is our tourism industry in terms of online and social media marketing? Do we need to put more effort in technology to improve the tourism sector? Social media is being used extensively, but only as a social contact point - we haven’t started using social media to the extent it can be used to promote business. There is awareness and desire but no real application. Having said that, I think we will see a positive change in the next couple of years. Online marketing is pretty strong in India and we will see some great developments here in the coming times. Please brief us about your future plans in expanding your endeavours in the hospitality industry? The Tree of Life Resorts & Hotels will continue to operate in the niche that we now know best – being small and exclusive. Now that the Tree of Life Resort & Spa, Jaipur is running smoothly we are looking to build a 20 rooms property in Varanasi – The Tree of Life Ganges, Varanasi. In addition, we have also started discussions with like-minded promoters to manage their properties. Given our expertise, we are looking at properties across the country which offer a unique experience and are in the range of about 20 keys. We hope to sign up three properties within the year end. 31

PROFILE

Dr. Pathrose Parathuvayalil

Pathrose Parathuvayalil BAM. MD(ay), has been a renowned name in the ayurvedic healthcare industry, Managing Director and Chief consultant of Parathuvayalil Hospital, a trusted name since decades. Dr Pathrose is indeed a great relief for those who are prescribed to undergo a surgery in orthopedic ailments. Dr Pathrose was succeeded by his father late Poulose Vaidyan and his grandfather late Varkey vaidyan, erstwhile marma specialists. The humble beginning of Parathuvayalil Hospital was initiated by late Poulose Vaidyan in 1955. Since then the venture has been growing faster and the recently rechristened ‘Dr Pathrose Parathuvayalil group’ is comprising of PAM LABS India healthcare PVT Ltd for the manufacturing of

ayurvedic medicines, HERBIX India pvt Ltd for marketing the products and ORTHO CARE products pvt ltd for techno-medical products, are contributing their share each, in the progress of the group, to name a few and many more on the way. The very famous and popular abdominal binder IN-SHAPE is the latest innovation of Dr Pathrose Parathuvayalil, is proved to be very successful in subsiding belly. The Pam labs health care pvt ltd is the only Indian ayurvedic pharmaceutical company recognized by Department of health, Oman for supplying medicine across the Middle East. The lab is producing 350 medicines, of which 50 are patented.

title ‘Guru’ by the Rashtriya Ayurveda Vidyapeeth (Dept of Ayush) for his enormous contributions . Dr pathrose The 100 bedded institution received ‘National Susrutha Award’ from National is serving 24/7 with a team Susrutha Association, of well experienced and specialized Ayurvedic doctors Thrichur zone , kerala chapter in 2006 for his glorious under the leadership of Dr contributions to ayurveda. Pathrose Parathuvayalil and is equipped with all modern Behind all achievements, facilities of Ayurveda. The Dr Pathrose Parathuvayalil is organization is also running accompanied by his wife Dr govt recognized courses in Prasanna BSc. MBBS is taking Ayurveda therapy. care of allopathic department, The professional expertise Despite the strict principles whose service is available of Parathuvayalil hospital of ayurveda is followed in round the clock in the is very popular in curing procedures; Parathuvayalil hospital. The couple is blessed muscular- skeletal disorders hospital has modern with 3 children, Dr. Sunil such as prolapsed disc, techniques to facilitate it. After Paul, an orthopaedic surgeon servical spondilosis, years of research Dr Pathrose , Dr. Sonia Prem. MDS and Ostio Arthritis and has designed and developed Sofia Abraham B.tech, MBA. joint arthritis. Life a ‘Pizhichil machine’ to His only daughter in law Nina style diseases like make pizhichil easier is a Sunil B.Tech, MBA is assisting diabetics and obesity characteristic contribution in the management of the are effectively treated to the Indian Ayurvedic group. here. Varicose ulcer, Movement. Though Parathuvayalil unhealing wounds Considering his skills Hospital is expanding and so called skin and expertise in Ayurveda, periodically in terms of allergies have contributions on research wellness and infrastructure, remedial measures and development for the services are charged with us. Moreover, the production and reasonably affordable even very few places have manufacturing of medicine to the lay-men. Independent expertise in healing and for promoting the traumatic conditions significance of ayurveda both cottages in the hospital like fracture, sprain nationally and internationally campus are intended to cater both native and foreign and dislocation he was selected statewide patients. The management without surgery, but from hundreds of nominated is all set to provide world these are healed with ayurvedic doctors and class tourism experience at the help of advanced awarded with ‘Vagbhata’. Parathuvayalil Hospital. equipments at He was also conferred with Parathuvayalil. Infact, Parathuvayalil is the one last word for any orthopaedic disorders.

ASIAN TRAVELLER | JULY 2013

NEWSLINE

Gujarat Tourism Bags CNBC MICE India and Luxury Travel Awaaz Travel Award MSI Newswire | Ahammedabad

or the second time in a row, Gujarat’s tourism corporation has won the prestigious ‘CNBC Awaaz Travel Award’ for the best State tourism board. The Tourism Corporation of Gujarat Ltd (TCGL) won the ‘CNBC Awaaz Travel Award 2013’. The award, based on a viewers’ poll and final selection by an expert panel, is one of the most prestigious awards in the tourism sector.

The Award has earned Gujarat Tourism the repute of one of India’s most accredited honours for the travel and tourism industry. Vipul Mittra, State Principal Secretary, Tourism, Civil Aviation and Pilgrimage, received the award in Mumbai, recently.

Congress to Be Held in Mumbai

Earlier in June, Gujarat had won the ‘Best Emerging Destination (Indian)’ for the Lonely Planet Magazine India Travel Awards 2013, said Mittra.

MSI Newswire | Mumbai

‘Plant a Rose Bush at Saputara’

he local authority of Saputara Hill, made popular by Amitabh Bachan through the 'Khushboo Gujarat Ki' campaign, has announced a unique project called Smruti Gulab' (memorial rose). The tourists wanting to leave behind the memories of the wonderful time they spend at Saputara would have an opportunity to plant a rose bush at the rose garden, which will bear their name and personal details inscribed on the tablet. They (tourists) will have more than 70 to 80 different varieties of roses to choose from and that they can even dedicate it in the memory of their loved ones, to commemorate the anniversaries, birthdays, etc. The Saputara's Notified Area

ASIAN TRAVELLER | JULY 2013

Authority (NAA) has come up with the unique project with the aim of providing a memorial gift to the tourists visiting the lone hill station of Gujarat. Whenever they would come back to Saputara, they would have memories of their last visit. According to NA Rajput, chief officer, NAA, the gardeners would take care of the rose plants belonging to the visitors. There is a one-time expense of Rs 1,000 payable by the tourists that includes fertilizer, water and other maintenance of the rose plants. As the rose plants have long life, the visitors can easily recognize their plants bearing their names and personal details during their next visit.

QnA

International is set to organise MICE India and Luxury Travel Congress on July 25 and 26 at the Hyatt Regency Mumbai, stated a release. The event will focus on the growing importance of the Indian MICE and luxury traveller. Realising the potential of the Indian outbound segment, ITL World is ready to cater to the enterprising emerging MICE market by partnering with the MICE India and Luxury Travel Congress 2013 to cater to the needs of Indian corporate and business travel buyers. “ITL World is proud to be in alliance with MICE India and Luxury Congress 2013, one of the most dynamic business focused congress today,” said Rafeeq Mohammed, Regional Head GCC, ITL World. According to Mischa Mannix-Opie, Regional Manager for South and South East Asia, New Zealand, “Tourism New Zealand views India market as a priority emerging market and we have secured additional funding to increase our marketing efforts in India market in the next three years." 33

COLUMN

V Duraikkannan

ndian skies are going to be witnessing several more airlines launching off in the next few months' time. The question uppermost in my mind is not about how their services are going to be but about how long they are going to be flying around. Going by the number of airlines that came up with so much of fanfare but went out of the scene with varying lifespan in the last one decadeor so are so many that such a dismal thought is irrepressible! 'Air Costa' based out of Vijayawada promoted by LEPL Group (Lingamneni Estates Private Limited) founded by L P Bhaskara Rao is the one almost all set for its regional operation. Incidentally, 'Costa' has nothing to do with a rib which the English word 'costa' normally means. It is pronounced as ' Costha', a Telugu-English word for 'Coast' as it purports to cater to all the coastal districts of Andhra like Vishakhapatnam, Kakinada, Vijayawada etc.

out of Dubai is readying for launch on the Kerala Day, Nov 1 (the day of Kerala's attaining separate statehood from the erstwhile Madras Presidency)! Air Asia of Malaysia is entering in partnership with the Tatas for domestic operation in India. It has already announced its 'Nano' fares in line with the Tata's brand name for a smaller car for a lesser price sending Indigo and other low cost airlines hurtling for a cutprice war for fast-forward sales towards pre-empting Air Asia's 'nano' fares. It remains to be seen how successful they are going to be, especially in the light of their recent pullout from Japan where they got in with the partnership of All Nippon Airways (ANA), though the CEO of Air Asia, Tony Fernandes had made light of their Japanese failure with his remarks ' ANA looked like one sexy woman.. when we got to bed, it was a horrible experience. So we had a quick divorce'! I do not know whether there is a message for the Tatas here!

'Kairali Airlines' promoted by a group of businessmen But all these airlines' headed by K.K.Praveenkumar, longevity, performance, and a Keralite businessman based profit line remain to be seen.

A quick review of the various airlines that are defunct now will only throw in a wet blanket for any sane and sensible speculator. East West became the most popular airline when the Government opened the skies for the private players way back in 1991 but it lasted only for three years from 1992 to 1995. It closed operations soon after the killing of its Managing Director, T.Wahid in a shoot-out. Chennai-based NEPC Airline promoted by the NEPC Group owned by the Khemkas did not last for more than four years (199397). The airline's operation over time became so erratic that NEPC which stood for Natural Energy Processing Company ( the group was into wind power generation) came to be interpreted as 'Never Ever Plane Comes'! NEPC took over another short-lived airline Damania, promoted by Parvez Damania and his brother Vispi under its wing and became Skyline NEPC only to turn into an even bigger fiasco. Another Delhi-based airline called MDLR ( Murli

ASIAN TRAVELLER | JULY 2013

COLUMN

Dhar Lakh Ram) with the fancy slogan ' Luxury In The Air' ceased operation within two years from its launch in 2007. However, the airline would be remembered in the aviation circle for its unique claim that it was the 'Only Vegetarian Airline in the World'! Other airlines which had relatively stronger background or conglomerate strength had also not fared well or made any money for that matter. Air Sahara, though a beautiful airline it was ('Emotionally Yours') had seen the money for the first ever time only when it

ASIAN TRAVELLER | JULY 2013

sold itself to Jet Airways and became part of it as JetLite! Kingfisher Airlines for all its nine years of operation ( 2003-2012) had not seen any profit at all, leaving behind a huge debt of more than Rs 7,000 crores to various financing institutions. Its buying out the trend-setter airline Air Deccan turned its end-setter, very sadly. Someone made a very bleak remark that it made a 'kingly fissure' for the airline!

Vayubhoot' turning it from the 'Wind Messenger' to 'Wind Ghost') , Archana Airways, Modiluft, Gujarat Airlines, and VIF and the list is fairly long. Prior to the genesis of Vayudoot, then Indian Airlines had already floated its own subsidiary airline called Alliance Air. I had heard from some analysts that the creation of the subsidiary was only to divide the mounting losses under two heads and prevent itself being declared 'sick' necessitating referral to BIFR (Board of Industrial and Financial Reconstruction).

The writing on the wall is very clear that there is no immediate feasibility of successfully operating a Indian aviation history Low Cost Carrier (LCC) in is replete with so many the country but only a Low failure stories starting from Price Carrier (LPC) as the government's own ' Vayudoot' costs remain more or less the (which people came to call '

same for both the models of LCC and FSC ( Full Service Carrier) in terms of airport overheads and fuel. Pricecutting among the airlines has always proved mutually suicidal as we have seen all these years. Sometimes the cut-prices go under hilarious masks as once Jet announced a huge discount on its fares in 2003 saying that they were celebrating the centenary of the Wright Brothers' invention of the aircraft ( they did the invention in 1903) and recently Spice mopped up some Rs 200 crores through a cut-price sale of tickets of Rs 2013 to welcome the year 2013! Let us hope the newcomers have done some serious homework and learned enough from the failures of others towards securing their own success! Sustainable airline is the need of the hour!

NEWSLINE

AirAsia to Work with Smaller Agents

MSI Newswire | Mumbai

irAsia said it is "battle hardened" to grow aggressively its joint venture with Tatas by offering cheap fares and focusing on the under-utilised airports in the country. On his pricing strategy, Tony Fernandes, Global CEO, AirAsia assured that they will look at prepaid cards and utilise smaller travel agents. “AirAsia India, which is

planning to start operations in the country with three planes later this year, will add at least 10 planes annually and was looking at carving out "a new market" here, AirAsia Chief Executive Tony Fernandes told reporters. "Our game-plan is very simple. We want to have the lowest fares; we want to improve connectivity within this vast country because we think there are lots of routes that are just not served here," Fernandes said.

Brand USA Partners with Sartha Global Marketing MSI Newswire | New Delhi

rand USA, the public-private partnership responsible for promoting the United States as a premier travel destination, named Sartha Global Marketing the in-market representative firm for India. Brand USA stated: “Sartha Global Marketing was instrumental in Brand USA’s first and highly successful trade mission hosting 50 U.S. delegates in Mumbai and New Delhi. They also facilitated the first Brand USA pavilion at SATTE, the largest networking forum for the travel & tourism industry in South Asia. Moving forward, the New Delhi based organization will work closely with in-market and U.S.

Shimla Has Top Rated Hotels

partners to augment the destination profile and educate stakeholders. Additionally, they will work aggressively to increase arrivals to the USA, encourage repeat visits and escalate visitor spending through marketing, promotional and public relations efforts.” Brand USA also appointed inmarket representation firms in other key markets like Australia, New Zealand, China, Hong Kong and Taiwan.

MSI Newswire | Shimla

himla leads the list of Indian cities with the highest ranked hotels, earning an overall 95.36 per cent score from visitors in terms of reputation, according to the reputation index put together by the global hotel search portal Trivago. The hill station was given the rating both by Indian and foreign tourists. Shimla was followed by Udaipur in the list. Trivago has put together an online reputation index of hotels in the top 30 Indian cities, compiling data from hotel reviews of more than 600,000 hotels on over 180 booking websites. Reputation index is based on the score the hotels gain in terms of services they provide. State-wise hotels in Himachal Pradesh, Rajasthan, Goa and Kerala have highly-rated hotels, according to the index. City-wise Delhi hotels, despite located in a city with most transportation connections both within and out of the country, stood at number 24. Hotels in Kolkata, the capital city of West Bengal, landed just below, at number 25 on the index.

ASIAN TRAVELLER | JULY 2013

Test your knowledge contest 68 1. How many states of USA are named after actual people? 2. Canada has two national sports. What are they? 3. Which is the longest country in the world? 4. Which airport in the world is named after Mother Teresa? 5. Which country's airline is called RAM? 6. Which airline's slogan is ' the Business Man's Airline'? 7. What does the city name 'Las Vegas' mean? 8. What is the currency of Greenland? 9. Which city will be hosting the next Olympics in 2016 (Aug 5- 21)? 10. What is Oktoberfest? Compiled by : DEEKAY

Send in your answers to info@mediastepsindia.com with TYKC 68 in the subject line. Answers should reach us before the 30th of this month. Answers to TYKC 67 1. Billund, Denmark 2. Vatican City 3. Karakoram Range where it is located 4. Korea 5. Sawadee ( Thai for ' Hello') 6. Ethiopia 7. Leap 8. Troposphere 9. Falcon 10. Sandwich Islands

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MOVERS & SHAKERS

Ashwani Nair took charge as General Manager of Le Meridian, Dhaka.

Vishal Singh, appointed as General Manager of Hyatt Pune.

Rajan Bahadur appointed as Chief Operating OďŹ&#x192;cer of the Grand New Delhi.

Shantanu Guha Roy, appointed as the General Manager of Radisson Blu Resort & Spa, Alibaug.

Sunil Pathania, appointed as the Vice-President at Tux Hospitality, New Delhi.

Anang Chaturvedi, appointed as the Director of Sales & Marketing, at Courtyard by Marriott, Mumbai ASIAN onal TRAVELLER_15 cm H X 21 Internati Airport.

Nidhi Verma, appointed as Head of PR&Marketing Communications at the Grand New Delhi.

Arun Kumar Manikonda, appointed as the Hotel Manager of Radisson Blu Rudrapur.

Shelly Chandhok, appointed as the new Country Manager for VITO-India.

Sanjeev Tiwari, appointed as Assistant General ManagerOperations of Bonton Tours Delhi Regional OďŹ&#x192;ce.

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ASIAN TRAVELLER | JULY 2013