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ASIAN TRAVELLER
JUNE 2011
ASIAN TRAVELLER
JUNE 2011
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in this issue VOL. 4
8
NO. 9
JUNE 2011
Investment, domestic tourism to get emphasis in tourism policy
Kerala Government will soon come out with a tourism policy with special emphasis on domestic tourism, said A P Anilkumar, Minister for Tourism, Government of Kerala. Investment in the tourism sector will also get special attention in the policy
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Tourism with responsibility is the way forward
An international symposium on Tourism and Livelihood has underlined the importance of tourism with social and economic responsibility.
P7
40 Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary: A bio-diversity hotspot
40 TAT India promotes Thailand as venue for Indian weddings
43 Vailankanni the exalted shrine of India
47 Fortune launches Fortune Park Boulevard in New Delhi
47 Larger Participation expected at IT&CMA and CTW 2011 P 14-15
48 New Director for Kerala Tourism
Woman of the Month
GIRIJA CHANDRAN
P 10
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As I Travel
Cover Photo: Salim Pushpanath
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P 16 ASIAN TRAVELLER
P 44 JUNE 2011
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A magical journey into the heart of solitude
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Idyllic hideaway to chill out amid the mystic hills
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Palatial retreat in tranquil harmony with nature
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Magnificent Inn for a memorable stay
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An enchanting hideout in the verdant valleys and hills
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Your holiday on ‘Top of the World’ in Munnar
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A perfect getaway to commune with nature
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Where nature and art meet in all its grandeur
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Nestled in scenic beauty
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A perfect hideaway
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Enthralling the scenic beauty
36
A delightful sojourn with nature
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Magic in the mountains
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Spectacular hideaway to enliven your Inner voice
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Tantalizing leisure hotel
ASIAN TRAVELLER
JUNE 2011
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EDITOR’S NOTE
O
ne of the issues raised by participants during the recent international symposium on Tourism and Livelihood held in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala was about the benefits host communities get – should be getting, rather - as a result of tourism activities. Case studies presented at the symposium gave examples of how tourism can contribute in a constructive way to make life in rural areas communities. Tourism is not just about visiting exotic locales and spending money and time there. It has a social responsibility too. Besides being an effective means that drives job creation and economic development in local communities’ tourism can contribute towards increasing access to essential services such as water, sanitation, telecommunications and transport of the communities in which it operates. But if it is not managed properly “the positive benefits of tourism run the risk of bypassing local residents”, as observed in an UNWTO seminar held in Bali, Indonesia. An interesting and unusual characteristic of tourism is it is an instance in which ‘the consumers travel to the point of production to consume the product’. So the well-being of the destination as well as the occupants there is of utmost importance. It is estimated that that travel and tourism accounts for one in thirteen jobs - which means nearly 220 million people world wide and is responsible for over 9 per cent of world wide capital investment. Tourism not only provides opportunity for residents to interact with other people and cultures and brings new ideas into the community but also creates opportunities for the establishment of new products, facilities and services and expansion of existing businesses which would not otherwise be justified solely on the resident population. So tourism activities should be envisioned in such a way to maximize the contribution of tourism to the economy and there by improving the quality of life at the target destination.
G. BIJU KRISHNAN Editor & Publisher editor@mediastepsindia.com +91 9447555222
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ASIAN TRAVELLER
JUNE 2011
OVER VIEW
Local communities to secure bigger benefits from tourism
T Ensuring that the social and economic benefits of tourism reach local communities was at the heart of the first ‘UNWTO Seminar on Tourism Ethics for Asia and the Pacific: Responsible Tourism and its Socio-Economic Impact on Local Communities’, held in Bali, Indonesia.
ASIAN TRAVELLER
he first UNWTO Seminar on Tourism Ethics for Asia and the Pacific highlighted some of the leading regional examples of tourism development which is respectful and inclusive of local communities. Best practices from Australia to Vanuatu were presented, alongside debates on some of the most pressing issues in tourism ethics and responsible tourism. The Spirit of Bali Statement adopted by the over 150 participants summarizes the main conclusions of the debate and pledges all stakeholders to work together to achieve the proposed recommendations. Tourism has proven one of the most effective means to drive job creation and economic development in local communities. The sector contributes to not only wealth creation, but also
JUNE 2011
increases access to essential services such as water, sanitation, telecommunications and transport. When not properly managed, however, the positive benefits of tourism run the risk of bypassing local residents. The Seminar took place within the framework of the 10th meeting of the World Committee on Tourism Ethics – responsible for promoting and monitoring the UNWTO Global Code of Ethics for Tourism. In Bali, the Committee analyzed a wide array of ethical issues, many for the first time, including the impact of recent events in the Middle East and North Africa on tourism in these countries as well as in neighbouring destinations, the relationship between human rights and tourism, the voice of civil society in tourism planning and management processes, the economic empowerment
of women through tourism, and accessible tourism for all, in particular for persons with disabilities. In light of last year’s travel disruptions caused by the Icelandic volcanic ash cloud and the recent eruption of the Chilean volcano, the Committee placed special attention on the issue of tourist protection. Given the current lack of information and assistance afforded to stranded travellers in crisis situations, the Committee decided to support and assist UNWTO in the preparation of an international legal instrument in this area.
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NEWSLINE
Investment, domestic tourism to get emphasis in tourism policy
K
erala Government will soon come out
support of LSGs and other departments.
with a tourism policy with special
Among the developmental projects that will be
emphasis on domestic tourism, said A
implemented during the 100 Action Plan;
P Anilkumar, Minister for Tourism, Government
Varkala hills protection plan will be
of Kerala. Investment in the tourism sector will
implemented with the assistance of Tropical
also get special attention in the policy. “A
Botanical Garden Research Institute and the
single-window system will be in place to
development of the Varkala Tourism
attract more investor to the state,” he added.
Centre will be completed with the help of the
Anilkumar who took charge as the Tourism
Harbour Engineering Department.
Minister of India’s number one Tourism state
Landscaping Kappil Beach and Palkkad Fort
was talking to Asian Traveller. “One of the
beautification will also be completed under the
State Government’s major objectives is to
action plan. Most of the visitors, be it domestic or
encourage domestic tourism and
international, who come to the state visit only
through this build up a healthy tourism culture.’’ The new tourism policy will make
the southern part of the state. Many of them
tourism more popular among the locals. “We
are unaware about the Malabar region, which
will create premium hotels and other facilities
has a lot to offer to the discerning traveller. The government will take steps to develop
that are attainable for the common man,’’ the
and promote Malabar. “A heritage tourism
Minister said. Steps will be taken to assure cleanliness and hygiene in all destinations, with the
A P Anilkumar Minister for Tourism, Kerala
package, focusing on River Nila could be formulated”, the Minister added.
Tourism with responsibilit y is the way for ward
A
n international symposium
the relevance of responsible
employment, contribution of
relationship between the
on Tourism and Livelihood
tourism. “Responsible Tourism
tourism on local employment, and
ministries and the local governing
has underlined the
bodies.
has great relevance for the State
discernible impact on poverty
importance of tourism with social
and we have to go forward with
reduction. Although the tourism
and economic responsibility.
greater purpose,” said the
sector accounts for a major share
Social Welfare and Panchayat,
Jointly organised by Department
Minister. Talking about the
in the state’s economy, its
Kerala; K Chandrika, Mayor,
of Tourism, Government of Kerala
Responsible Tourism initiative the
benefits are not equally
Thiruvanathapuram; Dr V Venu
and Kerala Institute of Tourism
minister said that we should learn
distributed. It is to bring this
IAS, Secretary, Kerala Tourism;
and Travel Studies (KITTS) in
from the successful Kumarakom
picture into light and to sort out
Sarada Muraleedharan IAS,
Dr M K Muneer, Minister for
Director, Kudumbasree Mission; K G Mohanlal IFS, Managing Director, KTDC; E M Najeeb, CMD, ATE Group; Jose Dominic, Chairman, CII - Kerala Chapter and U V Jose, Director, KITTS were among the dignitaries A P Anil Kumar, Minister for Tourism; Dr M K Muneer, Minister for Social Welfar; K Chandrika, City Mayor; Dr V Venu IAS, Secretary, Kerala Tourism and Harold Goodwin, Director, ICRT speaking at symposium
present on the occasion. The symposium discussed
association with International
model as well as from the not-so-
innovative ways to provide a
topics such as contributions to
Centre for Responsible Tourism
successful models Kovalam,
lasting solution that ICRT has
local economy, employment
(ICRT) and Confederation of
Kumily and Wayanad - the four
joined hands with the tourism
generation, discernible impact on
Indian Industry (CII), the
destinations where it was
ministry to organise the
poverty reduction, and capacity
symposium was held in
implemented on a pilot basis. He
symposium.
building.
Thiruvananthapuram from May 31
also stressed on the need to keep
to June 2.
politics out of the RT Initiative.
Inaugurating the three-day
The two day symposium
Industry stakeholders,
Harold Goodwin, Director, ICRT, Leeds Metropolitan
policymakers, elected
University, UK who was the guest
representatives, academicians,
symposium at Mascot Hotel A P
addressed various issues related
of honour at the symposium
and representatives of non-
Anil Kumar, Minister for Tourism,
to tourism and livelihood such as
credited the State for
governmental organisations
Government of Kerala emphasized
scope of providing local
evolving an effective working
(NGOs) attended the sessions.
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ASIAN TRAVELLER
JUNE 2011
For someone who enjoyed all kind of journeys from childhood and passionate about travel, a career in travel and hospitality sector was a logical choice for Girija Chandran visible in the virtual space.
count. All I have to say to
Discussions are on to tie up with
youngsters is that enter this
like minded industry partners.
industry only if you are passionate
Hammock has a new Director &
about travel.
CEO –Col. Viswanath Nair, who
apparent “glamour” factor might
support of the Managing Director -
look when seen from outside,
Chandran.
without passion, you will not be
As a hospitality industry
happy here, and your clients will
professional what is your
know it soon.
ambition? Where would you like to
What is the secret of your
see yourself ten years from now?
success?
I would like to keep abreast of
Success is a very relative term.
changing travel products, new
I would like to put it as the secret
destinations and create new
of being effective. Belief in myself,
client offerings based on these ,
resulting from the belief in a
constantly innovating. Ten years is
higher power that constantly
a long time! My personal vision is
guides me. Never giving up even
to play the role of a travel consul –
when the odds are heavily loaded
a specialised service - offering
against you. Even when decisions
expert consultancy for the
might look “wrong” from a
traveller on anything related to
traditional point of view, if my
travel to specific destinations that
inner guidance is to go for it, I get
I choose. This would mean
the courage to do that and the
constant learning and research
results have time and again
and being hands on with anything
proved me right.
to do with these chosen
What is your proudest moment in
destinations.
your job?
Who or what has been the
Girija Chandran Director Hammock Leisure Holidays Pvt Ltd
However tempting the
will drive this impetus, with the
When we started Hammock,
greatest influence in your
the travel industry was a credit
professional life?
market – 45 to 90 days were the
The tenets of the Bhagavad
norm. I fought hard within our
Gita are the greatest influence in
organisation, to insist on a cash
my life... Do your work without
and carry policy. The industry had
How did you become interested in
(which in today’s almost zero
looking at the fruits of the labour,
laughed at us, and predicted that
Travel & Tourism business?
commission scenario, has
is a special favourite. I believe
we will soon have to shut shop.
validated our stand).
that whatever we do, if we can do
Today, when the same industry
travel. Even as a child, I enjoyed
What is your current role in your
it with an attitude of an offering to
partners acknowledge and
journeys of any kind – even
organization?
God, then we cannot go wrong.
congratulate me for ushering in
Also, the saying that everything is
this change in the leisure holidays
I have always been keen on
dropping someone to the station
I am responsible for the
or airport, to me was a “journey”.
outbound department, sourcing
as it should be - allows me to
segment, I feel very satisfied for
As a business, my association
suppliers, destination expertise,
handle even the most difficult
having had the strength to stand
with the industry started with
training of the consultants and
situations in life with complete
firm in my conviction. It has
setting up Hammock Leisure
ensuring complete client
confidence.
benefitted the entire industry.
Holidays in 1996, along with my
satisfaction. I will be taking a
As a woman, what were the
Now, tell us about your family.
husband Chandran. Our passion
sabbatical soon from active
challenges you had to face in
for travel was the basis of this
operations to focus more on other
your professional life? What is
Sitara who is my biggest blessing
decision and there has been no
areas, working at the backend and
your advice to young girls who
in life. She has just finished her
looking back since then. We
pursuing a personal dream.
enter the sector?
Masters and works in the field of
started with our primary focus on
What plans - immediate and long
domestic leisure travel, at a time
term - do you have?
I have a 23 year old daughter –
PR and corporate communication.
I have not had to face any challenges just because I am a
She dons the role of a friend,
when hardly anyone was catering
For the organisation, the
woman. I think I am considered
philosopher, guide, critique, baby,
to this segment. We also decided
immediate plans are to expand
quite formidable for anyone to try
young adult, or anything else as
our client base, and to be more
and take advantage of me on that
not to get into ticketing directly
10
ASIAN TRAVELLER
Page 13
JUNE 2011
COLUMN
I
V DURAIKKANNAN
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n one of our recent sales meets, our product trainer after extolling and emphasizing the virtues of being connected through various networks asked us, a group of forty of us, as to who all were on the crown jewel of all the social networking sites, the Facebook. One hand after another started going up and finding it difficult to count them in sequence he instantly reversed the question: ‘Okay, who are all not on Facebook?’ Lo and behold, it was just one lone hand that went up and that belonged to me. Now I am also on the Facebook as it was considered a sacrilege that I was not there on. It was a later day small consolation for me to know that Bill Gates is not using Facebook either! It is true that our world is highly connected now and the need is felt even more as we get connected. We have one more phobia added to our already long enough lists of phobias: ‘nomophobia’ Nomophobia is the fear of being out of mobile phone contact (the term comes from ‘No Mo-bile phone’). It is established that 53 per cent of the mobile phone users get stressed if their phones do not work, or battery goes down, or there is no network coverage. So much for the Frankenstein’s monster of the mobile phone, social networking, and its ilk!
Technology is progressing by leaps and bounds. We have already moved up from Web1.0, the plain vanilla web world (‘read only web’) to Web2.0 where we have an extended world of sharing and adding UGC (user generated content), the read-write web. Web3.0 which is known as Semantic Web (‘the portable personal web’) is already on its way while Web4.0 which is called Symbiotic Web (man-machine integration) is already in the works. There is a dotcom for everything now. Starting from dating to marriage, and from marriage to divorce, and to second marriage there is a site for every conceivable act and
activity. ‘CompletCase.com’ claims fast and easy divorces for the discontented couples. The fee is just USD 299 for the divorce case as against a typical attorney’s charge of USD4000 (the ad says ‘You save USD 3701’!). Where are we heading for? ‘e-Funeral’ is already happening – for reasons of want of time or distance if you are not able to attend a near and dear one’s funeral, do not worry! There are services to stream the same to you from the funeral spot and you can virtually attend the last rites from where you are. It sounds morbid to me! Are we in the midst of something exciting happening or getting into a delirious lifestyle? People converse more and more on the net than face to face. We have
started living more in virtual world than in the real one. We do not know for real whether the internet has brought us together or has just robbed us of the human bonding element? The make-believe world is so much engaging for everybody that it is a rarity now to see two friends taking a leisurely stroll down the road for a talk. Rather they would be poking, chatting, friending (and unfriending), wall-posting, and invariably uploading some YouTube stuff not only for each other but for the whole world at large. The posting of videos on the Facebook has now assumed the dimensions of a national movement.The Facebook has especially become one big merry-go-
round for all. In every office, most of the people even before signing into their office mail, first sign into the Facebook. For such religious surfers and online game players, there is something
ASIAN TRAVELLER
JUNE 2011
COLUMN called a boss key as a handy help. A boss key or boss button is a special keyboard shortcut used in computer games or other programs to quickly hide the program and possibly display a special screen that appears to be a normal productivity program (such as a spreadsheet application). To add to that (read to make matters worse) those mobile users who do not have internet connectivity will now get Facebook on their simple mobile devices thanks to the so-called USSD technology (Unstructured Supplementary Service Data). Of course, it will be minus the graphic contents. Right now Airtel does it and soon others will follow suit! And if you want to see the largest MAS (Mutual Admiration Society) in the world, you have to just visit the Facebook
ASIAN TRAVELLER
network. You can post all your personal and at times even more personal or not so personal things for the whole world to see and not only your ‘friended’ folks but even strangers will stray in to howl ‘ Wows’, ‘Awesomes’, and ‘Likes’, and ‘Way to go’s! You can upload your house mouse delivering its baby mouse and rest assured to get some ten ‘likes’ for the same! At the time of writing this, I have 354 friends on the fb and way to go, as they say. Most of them are mostly onetimers saying a very enthusiastic ‘Hi’ in the first add and acceptance round and that is the beginning and that is the end. One thing is for sure as
JUNE 2011
Osho said ‘One cannot love one’s own child if one cannot love all the children in the
Page 10
the need and her mood dictates. What are your hobbies? There are too many things I like to do. I am an avid book worm . Reading and writing (creative and travel related writing) are the main areas of
interest. Travel remains the prime
world!’ The same principle applies to friend, friends, and friendship as well! You cannot be a friend to just a few hundred people unless you are friendly by yourself to all. Meeting, talking, and spending time with folks face to face is much more important and realistic than face-booking, dear netizens!
focus, but I do not know if it can
dkay2@rediffmail.com
NLP-K.
be termed as a “hobby”. I also have a green thumb – but not able to utilise that as much as i would like to, due to space and time constraints. Alternate healing is another area of great interest and I practice Jorei or OPT – a Japanese system of healing, along with other techniques from NLP and
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DOWN UNDER
Margaret River
A heady mix of wine and nature
hugely appreciated for making more than 20 per cent of the Australia’s premium here’s nothing like a wines. seemingly endless Boutique beer breweries supply of world-class wineries, boutique breweries, have also sprung up, offering brews ranging from pounding surf breaks and traditional pale ales and extraordinary geological and pilsners, through to ginger or natural phenomena - all in chocolate flavoured beers. one place. Some of Australia’s best chefs Originally a chilled out produce a feast of top tucker surfie town, Western Australia’s Margaret River has think exquisite cheeses, jam, condiments, olives and evolved into the ultimate freshwater crayfish. smorgasbord of fine wine, From the moment Mathew good food and spectacular Flinders first spotted Cape scenery, so much so that it was recently named one of the Leeuwin and started mapping the Australian coastline in world’s Top Ten Regions in 1801, the Margaret River Lonely Planet’s 2010 Best in region has been as culturally Travel. diverse as it has been With its Mediterranean intriguing. style climate, it is one of the Artists from around the world’s premium wineworld have long been producing regions and is Kris Madden
T
attracted to Margaret River’s rare beauty and relaxed atmosphere, and the list of internationally and nationally acclaimed photographers, jewellers, painters, glass blowers and wood, and metal working craftsmen is endless. Days are easily spent wandering the artisan trail there’s an art or craft gallery on just about every corner. Mother Nature has also created her own gallery in the form of networks of underground caves, a rugged coastline, squeaky-clean sandy beaches, turquoise water, towering forests and bush and coastal walk trails. The historic 100 year-old Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse is situated at the most south westerly tip of Australia, standing at the point where
the Indian and Southern Oceans meet. In spring, the countryside comes alive with a carpet of vibrantly-coloured wildflowers. Explore the Leeuwin Naturaliste Ridge with its dramatic cliffs and rocks; the stalactite and stalagmite decorated Ngilgi and Jewel Caves; the ancient fossil remains of Mammoth Cave; and the Boranup Forest, home to pale-barked Karri Trees, the third tallest trees in the world. If you’re feeling intrepid you can go rock climbing; or take the week-long walk along the Cape to Cape Track from Cape Leeuwin to Cape Naturaliste. The powerful waves that hammer the 40 kilometres of coastline have resulted in Margaret River being named
The wineries of Margaret River produce 20 per cent of Australia’s premium wines
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ASIAN TRAVELLER
JUNE 2011
DOWN UNDER
one of the world’s top ten surfing breaks. Surfer’s Point, promises powerful ground swells and first-class waves. The region is also renowned for water skiing, canoeing, kayaking and windsurfing. For those a little less adventurous, many trails make for enjoyable short strolls, or you can throw in a line and catch some local snapper; go bird-watching along the meandering waterways; or improve your handicap on one of the world’s most scenic golf courses. A colourful collection of cultures from around the world; great surf, fine food and wine and one of the largest and most naturally diverse regions in Australia makes Margaret River an Australian icon. Article and Photo Courtesy: Tourism Australia
ASIAN TRAVELLER
JUNE 2011
15
PILGRIMAGE TOURISM
The countdown begins for Amarnath Yatra 2011 four lakh people taking part each year. Registration for the his year’s pilgrimage to Yatra has already begun on the holy cave of first come first served basis. Amarnath in Kashmir On-line registration has also is to begin from the 29th of been introduced this year. June. It will continue till The holy cave of Amarnath August 13, the Shravana is situated in the Himalyan Poornima day, which coinrange surrounded by snow cides with Raksha Bandan. capped mountains, about 96 The countdown has begun kilometres from Srinagar with with the Jammu & Kashmir the base camp at the picturGovernment finalising all esque tourist resort of arrangements for the pilgrims. Pahalgam. A huge tented The 5000-year old Yatra, township comes up here which used to be a pilgrimage during the Yatra to accommofor only a few days, has date the pilgrims. From grown tremendously in size Pahalgam to the cave it is a over the years. It is now being distance of 46 kilometres. The conducted for more than one pilgrimage from this tradiand a half months with over tional route takes four days Ashok Handoo
T
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with overnight stops at Chandanwari, Sheshnag and Panchtarni. Beyond Chandanwari - three kilometres from Pahalgam- it is a foot-march, with the elderly persons moving on horsebacks and the sick and disabled being carried on palanquins, chanting ‘Baba Amarnath ki Jai’. The highest point touched en-route is the Mahaguns which is about 14500 feet above the sea level. The cave itself is at a lower elevation of about 1300 feet. There is shorter route as well - the Baltal route. It is just 14 kilometres to the cave but its topography makes it risky in case of bad weather. Quite
ASIAN TRAVELLER
JUNE 2011
PILGRIMAGE TOURISM
a few pilgrims take this route to save on time. A helicopter service from Pahalgam to Panchtarni is also in place. Officially, the Yatra is organised by the J&K Government in collaboration with the Shree Amarnath Yatra trust. The Government agencies provide necessary facilities all along the route during the Yatra period, which includes provision of ponies, supply of power, telecommunication facilities, firewood and setting up of fair-price shops. A number of voluntary organisations from across the country join the efforts by setting up pandals to provide eatables and other necessities to the pilgrims all along the route. There are a number of versions about the importance of the pilgrimage. The most popular version is that it was
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in this cave that Lord Shiva revealed the secrets of immortality to his consort Parvati. Two pigeons who overheard the conversation achieved immortality and appear briefly at the cave on the Shravana Poornima day, even to this day. One is amazed to see the pair of pigeons surviving in a climate where no birds are ever seen. Inside the cave a natural ice lingam is formed during the Shravana Poornima to represent Lord Shiva which waxes and wanes according to the cycle of the moon. Two other ice formations are also there which represent Parvati and Ganesh. There is a mention of the cave in the puranas as well. Another story says that in ancient times the valley of Kashmir was under water forming a big lake. Kashyap
Rishi drained the water out through a number of rivulets to make the valley habitable. In those days, Bhrigu Rishi came to the valley to visit the Himalayas and he was the first to discover the cave. According to yet another legend, it was a Kashmiri Muslim shepherd, Buta Malik, who while grazing his cattle in the area re-discovered the cave. The Malik family continues to get a share of the offerings at the cave even now. In his Chronicle of Kashmir, a sequel to Kalhana’s Rajtarangni, Jonaraja says that Sultan Zainu’l-abidin (1420– 1470) paid a visit to Amarnath while constructing a canal on the left bank of the river Lidder. The pilgrimage has been of particular importance for the people of Kashmir. It has
deepened the bonds of brotherhood among the Hindus and Muslims living in the valley for ages. Though it is a Hindu pilgrimage, Muslims have been providing necessary services to the pilgrims, in keeping with the rich secular traditions of the place. These include provision of ponies and Pithoos (palanquins for carrying the old and the sick). Only a few years ago, Muslims of Anantnag area provided shelter in their homes to hundreds of pilgrims when they were caught in bad weather. Despite the militant attack at Pahalgam in 2006, there has been no let up in the Yatra. In fact the number of yatris has been ever growing. The pilgrimage stands out as a symbol of Hindu Muslim unity in the valley.
ASIAN TRAVELLER
Courtesy: PIB Features
JUNE 2011
Photo: Salim Pushpanath
MUNNAR
Anytime of the year
I
t was the Scottish planters who ‘discovered’ Munnar in the early 1800s. They found the hills of Munnar had many things common with the Scottish Highlands. But it was the British, who ruled India, turned it into one of southern India’s most important centers for the cultivation of tea, coffee and spices. They also made it their summer hideout because of the cooler climate and the scenic beauty. Munnar still has the remnants of this colonial past in the form of old bungalows and church buildings. After the British had left India, Munnar remained a sleepy little hill town attracting tourists only occasionally. Visitors come to the town during the kurinji flowering season. Kurinji flowers bloom once in 12 years and cover the top hills in blue. That was the only ‘event’ that attracted travellers to Munnar. All that changed during the last decade of the last century. All of a sudden it became one of the ‘must visit places’ in the national and international circuit. With its vast expanses of tea plantations, colonial bungalows, rivulets, waterfalls and cool weather Munnar contributed to Kerala’s popularity as a travel destination among domestic and foreign travellers. The state government declared it a tourist spot in year 2000. A decade down the line Munnar is now looked upon as a round the year destination. Situated at an altitude of 1600 m above sea level, with bracing climate and laidback atmosphere Munnar is an ideal summer get away. But this hill station changes magically during monsoon and winter and puts on different garbs to attract visitors. Rain in the hills replenishes rivulets and waterfalls. The greenery will look so fresh with the dust and dirt washed away by rain water. One can watch the dark clouds gathering over distant horizon heralding the next rain. During winter the rolling hills will be shrouded in blankets of mist. The day time temperature will fall to chilly levels and evenings and nights become darker and ‘mist-erious’. If your idea about vacationing is spending time doing nothing, winter is the time and Munnar is the place. Munnar, with the mountain streams, valleys and tea plantations offers a great variety of choices to the tourists.
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ASIAN TRAVELLER
JUNE 2011
Photo: Salim Pushpanath
MUNNAR
ASIAN TRAVELLER
JUNE 2011
23
MUNNAR
The allure of three rivers
D
eriving its name from the confluence of three rivers, Muthriappuzha, Nallathanni and Kundaly, Munnar is a place that can steal a tourist’s heart right away. The magnetism of the place lies in its many attractions that stand to justify why Kerala is considered to be a heavenly place. With time, Munnar has come to be identified as a place of extraordinary scenic beauty. The images of its lush green tea gardens are difficult to separate from the imagination of anybody who would want to visit the place. There are around 30 tea estates in the area which also includes a tea museum started by the Tata Tea at the Nallathanni estate. In the quiet serene beauty of the place, there can also be found glimmers of wildlife and adventure. The Eravikulam National Park houses several species of rare flora and fauna, the most famous of them being the
24
engendered Nilgiri Tahr. The Park is also known for adventure sports like trekking. Also, situated just 13 kilometers from Munnar is the Anamudi peak which is the highest mountain in Kerala. This makes the journey of an adventure traveller much more exciting. Top Station which is located 27 kilometers from Munnar and is at a height of 1700m above sea level is another place of interest. Tourists often get awed by the breath taking panoramic view that it offers of the neighbouring Tamil Nadu. Echo Point which is on the way has some of the nature’s most amazing tricks at play. Mattupetty which also falls enroute to Top Station is an ideal picnic spot and is known for the dam and lake. The place offers boat rides and serves as a perfect hide-out from the ever buzzing city life. It helps the travellers to relax their mind, body and soul and gives them memories that would linger on for a very long time.
Photos: Salim Pushpanath
Lekshmi P.
ASIAN TRAVELLER
JUNE 2011
MUNNAR
Camp Noel
coming days. Another attraction that is coming up is a new Spa – which will be in association with Spa Veda. It will be a Western style spa and not an Ayurvedic one. Besides honeymoon packages and candle light travellers. majestic mountains, mysteridinners, night safari is the Accommodation at Camp ous woods, trickling streams, most sought after activity at and sprawling valleys. Once a Noel is provided at Club House Rooms (with exclusive Camp Noel. The night safari royal orchard, this pristine gives one a chance to see wild abode was started as a cottage access to the club lounge and animals in the natural surbalcony) and Cottages (two to chill out during weekends roundings. and vacation for the family. It bedroom cottages having an A couple of new area over 1000 sq ft and has was later converted and properties are also separate living area with developed into a resort. The getting developed resort has the looks and feel of beautiful stone fire place, gourmet kitchen, dining area, in other parts of the Scotland about it. With its theme based settings, one can two bath attached bed rooms state by the holding and all other necessary ameni- company – one in find even a glimpse of Rome Vytilla in ties). These rooms and and Italy in the artifacts and Ernakulam (an old cottages have an excellent portraits placed in the multibungalow with five bed cuisine restaurant and rooms. view of the surrounding rooms will be developed into mountains and valleys and Voted as the number one have all the amenities a visitor a heritage property named hill station hotel in India by Joshua heritage) and another Trip Advisor and ranked sixth requires during a holiday. in Wayanad (located on 100 in romance and service based There are plans to add two acres in Mananthavady). more cottages and six club on customer’s choice, Camp www.campnoel.com house rooms will in the Noel mostly gets high end
A magical journey into the heart of solitude
A
ll good things in life are hard to get to’ and so is Camp Noel, a beautiful nature resort hidden deep in the hills of Munnar. It is 36 km away from Munnar town near the village Pazhathottam and takes about one-and-a –half hours to reach the resort. The first 30 km is a very scenic drive on the Kodaikkanal highway but last six km to the resort is through a forest track. Sitting on 15 acres of grass lands the resort gives an enchanting escape into the tranquility where one can experience Mother Nature at its magnificent best with
ASIAN TRAVELLER
JUNE 2011
25
MUNNAR
C
ozily nestled in the midst of two misty hills is Tea County, a premium hill
resort in the picturesque Munnar with its expansive green plantations, pristine valleys and rippling streams. A property of the
Tea Count y
Idyllic hideaway to chill out amid the mystic hills
Kerala Tourism Development Corporation (KTDC),
types of conference hall options
restaurant that serves
call, Boardroom, Wi-Fi facility,
Tea County is a
which include Theatre style with a
scrumptious and spicy delicacies.
laundry, Car hire and Currency
honeymooner’s
seating capacity for 150 persons,
It has a Dancing floor and Beer
exchange facility.
paradise and an
Classroom style that can
parlour that helps visitors
ideal venue for
accommodate 50 people, ‘U’
organize and celebrate parties.
leisure time, the resort offers
family get-togethers
Shaped hall to seat 35 persons
Other facilities offered at the
various activities like Indoor
and incentive
and Round type hall with a seating
resort include Ayurvedic therapies
games, Para-gliding and Trekking
meetings.
capacity for 35 people.
with its herbal body toning
arrangements and Day tours.
parlour, Health club, Doctor-on-
Interestingly, it also arranges
It’s a rare sight to behold as
The resort has a multi-cuisine
For the visitors to spend their
the mist evaporates in the greens around and tumbles down to blend in the warmth of the resort’s luxuriously furnished rooms. The resort has 43 well appointed rooms categorized into 34 Deluxe,
Sight-seeing trips to Eravikulam
eight Premium rooms and one
National Park, Sandalwood
Suite. The guests can unveil the
forests near Chinnar Wildlife
curtains of each room to
Sanctuary and Shola forests like
experience the mesmerizing views
Pampadum Shola National Park,
of nature’s bounty.
to the newly created Neelakurinji
In meeting the requirements of the visitors, the resort has various
Sanctuary, Tea-valley tour to Echo Point, Top Station, to Lukkom Waterfalls, boating in the streams and many more. The adventurous ones, who prefer to venture out, may bicycle down the mountain trails, paraglide over the valleys, go trekking, climb rocks, or try to catch a rainbow trout or spend a day in a tea plantation. www.teacountymunnar.com/ teacountymunnar@ktdc.com
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ASIAN TRAVELLER
JUNE 2011
MUNNAR
Club Mahindra
Palatial retreat in tranquil harmony with nature
C
uddled amidst the scenic
Hut. Each of these apartments
features a 24 hours In Room
glass painting, fabric Painting,
landscape of Munnar hills
has all amenities which include
Dining service.Guests can spend
spray painting, tie and dye,
is Club Mahindra resort, a
dry kitchenette, sofa cum bed,
their leisure time by choosing
ceramic painting, golden tea plant
cradle of luxury and an attractive
CCTV and Wi-Fi facility in the
from a range of indoor or outdoor
making, tie an dye, decorative
home away from home. Certainly,
Holiday Activities Centre.
activities. Some of the listed
mirror, pen stand or
indoor activities include caroms,
candle making and
it is more than the seeing of
Guests can look forward to a
sights; it is a change that goes on,
scrumptious spread of mouth-
board games, speed hockey, arts
many more. The resort
deep and permanent, in the ideas
watering delicacies at the resort’s
and crafts and outdoor activities
has a well stocked bar
of living while at Club Mahindra.
multi-cuisine restaurant ‘The Tea
include rappelling, trekking, river
with open terrace
The guests feel a homely intimacy
Room’, which serves Indian,
crossing, boating, bonfire at the
named “The Spice
as their soul’s blossom in nature.
Chinese, Tandoori, Continental,
resort, sight-seeing and bird
Lounge”. The other
Mexican and other authentic
watching. The visitors can dabble
facilities include
regional dishes. The resort
in a variety of their hobbies, be it
Gym, Ayurvedic & Health Centre,
With its appealing Indo-British architecture ensconced among the mountains, the Resort has120
Reflections (Beauty Parlor),
fully-furnished spacious ornate
Grocery Store, Souvenir Shop,
rooms, suites and cottages, each
Safe Deposit Locker Facility, First
offering a panoramic view of
Aid, In-house Ayurvedic Doctor
green tea plantations and the
and Doctor on Call, Foreign
mystical mountain peaks.
exchange facility.
The room types include the
All major credit cards
Superior Room, Deluxe Room,
accepted (Master, Visa, Amex
Junior Suite, Superior Suite,
etc).
Deluxe Log Hut and Superior Log
www.clubmahindra.com
ASIAN TRAVELLER
JUNE 2011
27
MUNNAR
Grand Plaza
Magnificent inn for a memorable stay
A
n imposing inn amidst the
Grand Plaza has one multi-
with latest audio-video
organizing discotheques on
equipments, with a seating
certain occasions and at the
serene lush greenery of
cuisine restaurant ‘Grand spices’
Munnar, Grand Plaza
that serves
capacity for
backside it has a good river side
stands distinctive overlooking the
Indian, Chinese
300 persons.
lawn to hold functions for 600
high range club’s golf course and
and Continental
The
people. Above all, the Plaza has a
the helipad. An excellent property
cuisine with
conference hall
good team to maintain the
in an ideal location at a walk-able
quality service
also provides a
decorum and is customer friendly.
distance from the town, yet away
in an enchanting
good view of
from the hubbubs of the habitat
ambience. It has
the tea
complimentary Wi-Fi and works on
gardens when
the basis of the USP (Urban
the curtains
Selling Proposition) that the
The entire hotel offers
near the Tata’s
an activity café
Chokanad estate,
basically a
Grand Plaza offers a
coffee shop operational for 24
are unveiled and has a board
conference hall ‘Grand Vista’ is
pleasant stay away
hours, with indoor games like
room `Grand Tee Off’ with a
the best in Munnar as it is handled
from home.
chess, caroms etc. The hotel has
seating capacity for 35 persons.
in a highly professional way, best
The Plaza has 39 elegantly
Dr. Xavier Mathew M.D. Managing Director
the best conference hall facility ‘Grand vista’ in theater style, fitted
Srijeet Teqedat General Manager
The hotel has a large parking area taken on lease from Tata and
suited for the corporate with its serene ambience and close to the
in addition it has enough parking
town. The Plaza offers various in-
rooms and is categorized into
spaces at the rear to park 17
house activities like evening
standard, deluxe, suite room and
cars. The area is also used for
games with camphor, table tennis,
furnished spacious
one royal suite room. It’s Eminence Suite and Royal rooms are luxurious and spacious with a separate living room, dining space and dressing area treating the customers like king with its uncompromising service. There is an over all difference in space, amenities and the ambience of each room, individually designed in such a way that it offers a breathtaking view of the tea plantations. Gently draw the
badminton and tea garden walk
curtains and nature takes you into
with a guide, health care etc. To
the timeless world of peace and
ensure an environmentally
tranquility, take time to feel the
sustainable working model, the
composed ambience.
hotel has an STP (Sewage
The rare surroundings amidst
treatment plant) for waste
the tea plantations provide the
management. This expansive
perfect setting for a romantic
hotel in a picturesque setting is a
getaway; it’s so soothing and
great place for a treasured
relaxing that one would love to
vacation to relax and unwind.
come back again.
www.grandplazamunnar.com
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ASIAN TRAVELLER
JUNE 2011
MUNNAR
Tea Castle
An enchanting hideout in the verdant valleys and hills
A
magnificent inn, Tea Castle is bordered by the pristine valleys and evergreen tea plantations in Chitrapuram, nearly 10 kms from Munnar town. With easy access to all major tourist attractions in and around this idyllic hill station, it is a perfect
retreat for nature lovers and tourists. Tea Castle has 50 rooms categorized into standard, deluxe and club rooms.
ASIAN TRAVELLER
JUNE 2011
The rooms are well spaced, so that the guests can have a whiff of fresh breeze amidst the chirping of birds, while
having a glimpse of the nature’s bounty around. A venture of Kerala Holidays Pvt. Ltd., a reputed and experienced travel house in South India and managed by Intersite, the resort is committed to ensure the best refreshing holiday experience for the discerning traveler to Munnar. This luxury hotel has a roof top multi-cuisine restaurant, a coffee shop, activity room, health club and a small conference hall with a seating capacity for 30 persons. It has a travel desk and offers all facilities for the guests with ample space to park vehicles. Assuring quality services for the guests like Doctor on call, the hotel also organises Camp fire, Trekking, Sight-seeing and plantation tours. www.teacastle.in
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MUNNAR
Mist y Mountain Resort
balance form with function and provide the ultimate setting for work, rest and play. Signifying luxury to its core with Victorian architecture and vibrant interiors with its array of finest amenities, the resort’s deluxe suites is equipped with modern bathrooms, some with glass shower cubicles and all with stylish glass basins nurturing the visitor with the ultimate in comfort and style. The visitors can relish the delights of this sleek mountain-side resort, warm up by the lobby fire amidst the hues of nature, sip a drink while absorbing the stunning valley view from the comfort of their room Suresh P. for it offers MD an optimal haven during any season. Environment friendly and aesthetically pleasing, Misty comfortable sleeper sofa in the Mountain Resort promises to leave her guests with a living room for additional memorable' mountain sleeping space. holiday' experience. The splendidly appointed www.mistymountainresort.in rooms are designed to
Your holiday on 'Top of the World' in Munnar!
S
et in a serene natural ambience on a steep terrain is Misty Mountain Resort .Poised at the gateway of Munnar, amidst the misty hills of the Sahyadri mountain ranges, gazing upon lush tea plantations and a distant lake , its excellant location is indeed its USP ! True to its name, the visitors can experience a 'walk in the clouds' as veils of mist envelope the area at sunset. This 2 year old luxurious resort beside the national highway (NH 49), offers 50 well-appointed rooms, themed restaurant, two elevators , 3000 sq ft banquet space, Karoake & Rooftop Bonfire facilities, Ayurvedic Spa , toddler play area and gym. Trekking is arranged within the resort grounds and special offers like the honeymoon package are very popular with guests, earning it the 'BestValue ' award from reputed travel websites like TripAdvisor. Apart from its standard garden facing rooms, the valley-view rooms including deluxe and suite rooms are stylishly furnished and in
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harmony with the mountainside setting. The suites include a king size bed with plush bedding in a private bedroom and a
ASIAN TRAVELLER
JUNE 2011
MUNNAR
Pulimootil Estate
A perfect getaway to commune with nature
P
ulimootil Estate, the first
winding lanes, meadows and tiny
the regional spicy flavour of
bungalow resort in Munnar
rivulets.
Kerala and assures hygienic and
is an amazingly attractive
The resort has 45 rooms
tasty delicacies. A perfect place
destination in a sprawling 30
consisting of gracefully
for trekking, the resort serves as a
acres of plantation comprising
landscaped 10 bungalows, two
base camp and the
Cardamom, Pepper, Clove,
cottages and 16 deluxe
visitors can relish a
Nutmeg, Ginger, Cinnamon and
rooms, kitchen, reception etc,
variety of fruits such
many more. The spicy aroma
are spread across 30 acres of
envelops the area as it wafts with
cardamom plantation amidst the
personalized services and above
Guava, Banana,
the gentle breeze and makes the
deep woods. The rooms are well
all extreme comfort and serenity.
Orange, Mangostene,
guests energized and excited in a
spaced giving the guests privacy
The bungalows are a blend of
Jackfruit, Rambuttan,
natural ambience of pristine
and freedom with incredible
ancient and modern architecture,
Butter fruit, Litchi,
valleys, green mystic hills,
dining facilities, highly
with wooden ceilings, floors and
Papaya and Rose
as Pineapple, Mango,
large windows
apple. The guests can wake up to
to let in
the melody of birds like Malabar
natural light
Whistling Thrush and Ultramarine
and breeze. A
fly catcher and get close to nature
well-equipped
and its centuries old trees. The
kitchen offers
resort also provides interesting
south Indian,
activities such as plantation tours,
Chinese and
camp fire, bird watching and
Continental
sight-seeing trips.
cuisine with
www.pulimoottilestate.com
Clouds Valley
ASIAN TRAVELLER
JUNE 2011
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MUNNAR
Silver Tips
Where nature and art meet in all its grandeur
N
James Mathew Managing Director
estled in the foothills of the idyllic hill station
cuisine with separate crockery,
Munnar, Silver Tips is a
understanding the needs of the
premium hotel and a class apart
visitors who are sensitive.
from other hotels in the vicinity set
A theme based swimming pool
on the theme ‘Classic Movies’.
is on the final stage and once it’s
It stands on the site where
ready it will be a unique pool in
Pankajam a well-known cinema
Munnar. Silver Tips is in the
house (1920-1990s) was located.
process of expansion and plans to
An architectural marvel inspired
have 57 rooms by February next.
by the contemporary style with a
Behind the scenes video library,
theatre base, its façade is impressive and reflects elegance. The bedrooms, the lounge ‘Mughal-e-Azam’, the Indian and multi-cuisine restaurant ‘Mayabazar’, and the coffee shop ‘Sound of Music’, add spice to the world of fantasy. It has 50 wellappointed rooms which include 48
which lends DVDs, books and
executive rooms
magazines, help you get rid of the
and two suites.
blues on a rainy day.
Interestingly, every
If you are a fitness fanatic,
room has a theme
there is the off screen multi-gym
taken from a
to see to it that you do not waste
popular movie from the
inspired décor is sure to take you
members of the film making crew
away. The Silver Tips, the EVM
international or Indian arena. It is
to the era of the great classics.
have stayed here.
group’s foray into the hospitality
reflected in the décor through the
The conference hall with a seating
props used in the sets. The barn
capacity of 150 and the walls
‘Mayabazar’ inspired from a
amenity. The focus will be on
doors are something that will take
ordained with the photographs of
Telugu movie offers national and
standardization of quality with
one to a different world, the
classic films from English, Hindi,
international cuisine and a wide
diversity, health club and
glamorous world of movies.
Tamil and Malayalam, presents a
range of delicacies and present a
ayurvedic spa, indoor game
festive ambience and an
homely feel, evoking nostalgia. It
facility, Wi-Fi and other customer
designs make the lounge Mughal-
opportunity for a larger than life
has a separate kitchen for
friendly services.
e-Azam, a class apart. The Persian
experience. Many celebrities and
vegetarian and non-vegetarian
www.silvertipsmunnar.com
The striking and elegant
32
The multi-cuisine restaurant
segment lacks no modern
ASIAN TRAVELLER
JUNE 2011
MUNNAR
Green Ridge Holiday Homes
Nestled in scenic beauty
G
wooden flooring.
reen Ridge Holiday Homes Munnar is
Green Leaf, the cellar
nestled and covered by mountain
multi-cuisine restaurant
ranges, lush green vegetation, rubber
and tea plantations, waterfalls, serene forests,
offers vegetarian and non-
small streams, stunning landscapes
vegetarian food
and the aroma of spices like Cardamom,
delights that will tickle the guests
vanilla, pepper, cinnamon, clove nutmeg, sound of birds makes the air truly refreshing
taste buds clubbed with
for the guest to stay and enhance the scenic
immaculate services. The 24 hour ‘GRANDECAFE’
beauty.
coffee shop entice the guest to
The rooms are elegantly furnished with
linger over by its hot steaming
pristine views of the misty mountains of
Coffee, mericano, Cappuccino, Hot Chocolate, Fresh milk,Fresh fruit juice etc. ‘DURBAR’ conference hall has provision to seat 60 persons and the ‘SKYLIGHT’ roof top can accommodate 100 Munnar for the guest to enhance the joy of
persons for meets, conferences, occasions
holiday. The 46 well appointed rooms with
and distinguished gatherings. It also provides
comforts and luxury are categorized into 27
other facilities like internet and travel desk for
deluxe rooms, 12 plush super deluxe rooms
the guests.
and seven exotic executive rooms with
ASIAN TRAVELLER
JUNE 2011
www.greenridge.co.in
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MUNNAR
The Mountain Club
A perfect hideaway
T
he Mountain Club is a premium resort offering world class facili ties and it is located in the Chinnakanal area of Munnar. The only resort in Kerala’s hill country with a state-of-the-art swimming pool, you could lounge around in the cozy chaletstyled cottages, trek through tea plantations that go back centuries, make your own jungle trail through the lush tropical forest around the resort or get busy in the inviting swimming pool, doing absolutely nothing. If in the mood for a picnic, there are delights to discover around the sparkling brooks in the lush green tropicana. It is also home to every single state-of-the-art modern amenity needed for the urban traveller, should you be in the mood for mingling work with pleasure. Mountain Club lets you do all these and more to rejuvenate yourself through convenient and affordable holiday packages. The offers premium accommodation and is categorised into 27 two bed room cottages (family villas) and 20 honeymoon villas with one bedroom. These
34
cottages are stylish spread over a wide green landscape with a beautiful view of the nature outside spread over many acres. The multi-cuisine restaurant offers elaborate exotic blend of Chinese, Continental, Italian Kerala cuisine in a warm ambience. This exclusive multi-cuisine specialty restaurant offers all kinds of culinary delights along with a service par excellence. The conference hall has a capacity to accommodate 200 persons and the experienced MICE team offers full-service event planning and coordination. The state- of -the art health club with modern equipments offers facilities for guest with trained staff .to tone up the body and plunge into an exhilarating work out session. It also provides other facilities like swimming pool, Wi-Fi connectivity is available in the lobby. Ayurveda, business centre and outdoor activities like trekking, night safari, paragliding etc are available.. Above all Mountain Club is keyed to be ever prepared to serve its guests with fully functional facilities, gourmet cuisine, sincere service and ample car parking facility. www.mountainclub.co.in
ASIAN TRAVELLER
JUNE 2011
MUNNAR
Igloo Nature Resort
Enthralling the scenic beauty
I
gloo Nature Resort picturesquely lay up amidst exquisite greenery and
embracing the rich Tata Tea
Indian dishes. The well
Plantations is
appointed conference
designed with
hall ‘Green Carpet’
love and style
helps for get-togethers
that it blends
of all kind
reverently into
conferences, board
its natural setting. The
meetings, seminars
Vimal Roy V. General Manager
and more. It also
resort is owned and operated by
provides other
the famous Sunshine group and
facilities to the guest
has built up a reputation of high
like Ayurvedic Treatment Centre,
standard of customer service and
service at
and executive rooms elegantly
indoor Games, health Club, camp
occupancy.
its best and
furnished with nature at its
fire and barbeque, garden with
the unique
doorstep. All rooms are provided
kids play area, conducted tours
drive from Cochin City and offers
organic
with rich balconies opening to the
etc. We pride ourselves in
the visitor, luxury only one can
food.
panoramic view of the misty blue
achieving highest rate of
hills.
occupancy during the last
The resort is just four hours
dream about the unpolluted
The
atmosphere, crystal clear water,
resort offers a stunning
absolute calm and privacy,
combination of cottages, suites
ASIAN TRAVELLER
JUNE 2011
The multi cuisine restaurant ‘Dewdrop’, serves Continental and
financial year. www.igloomunnar.com
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MUNNAR
Ambady Estate
A delightful sojourn with nature
A
mbady Estate is a unique way to experience Munnar, one of India’s most exotic destinations. A Boutique`farm stay’ with its own character, Ambady Estate blends old world elegance with modern convenience. Nestled amidst 70 acres of cardamom plantations with a fair measure of pepper, coffee and tropical fruit trees, the resort offers an environment so tranquil and serene that staying here, you'll discover that Ambady estate has filled you with peace, delight and a wonderful sense of happiness. In this estate under the canopy of varied and endangered species of trees all centuries old, the visitors can experience the feel of a rain forest. In a unique gesture, the estate familiarizes the guests in plantation activities and they are taken for a plantation walk with a naturalist. Ambady Estate, truly a plantation resort has eight cottages and two-bed room plantation villa retaining all the charm of colonial bungalows. It offers the guests delectable Kerala style food , Continental and Naturopathic cuisine prepared using fresh vegetables and spices from the
36
plantation's organic farm. All the produce used are farm fresh and no pesticides are used in cultivation.Guest can also watch the Chef conjure up the delectable fare and even try their hand at it. Ambady Estate is a place full of love and heart. A work
of art and labour of love from the owners .The owners believe in conservation of the unique flora and fauna of the Western ghats. The guests are given chance to plant the endangered species of plants.
Munnar is actually a 365 day destination . Ambady Estate has mainly international tourists during season and domestic clientale during
the summer.The guests stay mostly for 2-3 nights but some stay for days together, those who love to live with nature. Ambady Estate provides a range of in-house activities which include trekking, bird watching, wild life sighting, meditation and yoga. The other special attractions include Butterfly Migration Spotting, Farm Stay Experience, and Guided treks and Jeep safari along the mountainous terrain. www.ambadyestate.com
ASIAN TRAVELLER
JUNE 2011
MUNNAR Deshadan has been offering the perfect holiday experience since inception, because at Deshadan hospitality is more than just good stay, cuisine and leisure. It’s the fine art of treating guests to a treasure trove of memorable moments. Deshadan came into being in 2000 with Deshadan Tours and Travels which promoted outbound tourism to Maldives and Srilanka. The success and recognition that came in a span of just 4 years prompted Deshadan to foray into resorts resulting in establishment of Deshadan Mountain Resort, Kerala’s highest mountain resort in Munnar in the year 2004. One year later in 2005, Chettinadu Mansion, the heritage palace of the erstwhile Chettiyars was opened to offer a privileged and gracious retreat. This was followed by the opening of a beach resort, Deshadan Cliff & Beach Resort in the picturesque Varkala and a houseboat division in paradisiacal Alappuzha in 2008. The year 2010 saw Deshadan opening two excellent holiday options, Deshadan Plaza, Cochin , a business hotel and Chettinadu Court, a village resort in Chettinadu. With a penchant for personalized care and supreme value for money, Deshadan continues its journey of offering the most-sought after holiday experience in a range of exotic locations. Deshadan is one of the fastest growing resort chain in South India.
Deshadan Mountain Resort
Magic in the mountains
D
eshadan Mountain Resort, the highest mountain resort in Kerala and the first property of Deshadan Group is just four km away from the tea town of Munnar. It is graced by soft falling C Muthu mists that Executive Director waft in and out filling the cool, fresh air with a tranquil mysticism. Deshadan has at its very doorstep everything that
ASIAN TRAVELLER
makes it so unique and special to Munnar. Offering a visual treat to the tourists, the resort presents a vast panoramic view of Munnar’s sprawling tea plantations on one side and a huge misty Sharad Nair mountain Managing Partner standing gracefully on the other side. The resort has 22 rooms which include cottages and individual rooms. The
JUNE 2011
individual rooms are classified into Garden View Rooms, Mountain View Rooms and Valley View Rooms. The luxurious amenities pamper you inside the resort and the virgin landscapes behold your Soju M Thomas Group-VP eyes outside. The Resort’s multi cuisine restaurant serves a vast array of cuisines with traditional flavour and hospitality. It has
a conference hall with a seating capacity for 80 persons and provides others facilities to the guests like Game room, Trekking, Sight-seeing trips in and around Munnar, Adventure Sports and Camp Fire etc. Deshadan offers various packages and the most sort of package is the “Deshadan Heartbeats”. This is an exclusive honeymoon package. www.deshadan.com
37
MUNNAR
Clouds Valley
Spectacular hideaway to enliven your i nner voice
S
et against the breathtaking backdrop of Munnar, Clouds Valley leisure hotel welcomes you to the beautiful mountain peaks surrounded by a veil of mist, splendid green valleys and twinkling streams. To the lover of wilderness, Clouds Valley is one of the most wonderful hotels to be in. The pristine and unpolluted air, beautiful weather, and remarkably affable ambience of this hillside retreat leaves you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. Clouds Valley, the 4 star facility hotel in Munnar, caters to the needs of the business travelers as well as tourists who come to explore this idyllic hill station. The elegant hotel with 54 Rooms is conveniently located in the heart of Munnar and offers you a perfect base for your stay in this tranquil hilly terrain. In the elegantly and attractively designed interiors at Clouds Valley, comfort and style blend in harmony
offering a peaceful ambience for the visitor. Equipped with modern facilities, all the rooms offer an aesthetic and enchanting milieu of Munnar. The A R Mohan Managing Partner Suites and Valley View Rooms help you relax in peace and solitude, after a hard day’s toil. The comfortable accommodation elevates the
guests to a relaxed private space away from the hubbubs of the habitat. The hotel has an exclusive Multi-cuisine Restaurant that serves Continental, Sanil Managing Partner Chinese, Indian and South Indian cuisine. Relish the delicious delicacies served for breakfast, lunch and dinner at this restaurant, it will leave you asking for more. The Roof garden
Restaurant at Clouds Valley is an ideal choice and venue for formal and family gatherings. It’s spacious and well furnished Conference halls offer assembly spaces of
varying sizes suited for corporate gathering, training courses, meetings, get-togethers and special occasions. The conference and meeting Vinod V. General Manager rooms are equipped with the latest audio-visual support, Wi-Fi, wired internet access and gym and spa into its array of service for the guest. The hotel also provides round the clock Reception Travel Desk Facility, Car Rental and secure parking space for vehicles and other contemporary facilities. In all warmth, the Clouds Valley also offers a multitude of recreation and exciting leisure activities like Angling, Trekking and Plantation tours to unwind in the lap of nature. www.cloudsvalleymunnar.com
ASIAN TRAVELLER 38
JUNE 2011
MUNNAR
T & U Leisure Hotel
Tantalizing leisure hotel
T
& U Leisure Hotel is a 3-Star category hotel in Munnar surrounded by lush green valleys and various plantations and offer picturesque sights and scenes that enthrall the guest. The plush 30 rooms, the interiors, the lobby and the outdoors add to the details the evolution of the tea industry. In a way, if you look closely
areas in Munnar. The rooms are very spacious and categorised into 16 standard rooms, 10 deluxe, three suite room and one honeymoon cottage connected with a small hanging bridge; all the rooms are facing the valley. The multi-cuisine restaurant ‘Top Station’, serves very delicious food to the guests. The 120 person
the leisure hotel has just become the ‘and’ between Tea & you. The hotel is just 1 km away from Munnar town and is close to all the site seeing
ASIAN TRAVELLER
JUNE 2011
theater style seating capacity conference hall at T&U is perhaps the most ideal hideout to mix business with Sumesh Joseph pleasure. It is Director well designed with sober and striking colours and state-ofthe-art video-audio
conferencing facilities for a successful event. The last financial year season was really good with 70 per cent occupancy and in the next season that is 2012, we are planning to add 20 more rooms, at present the occupancy is full. We are also coming up with one more property in Thekkady its name is Coffee Land, it’s a big plantation resort. The main USP of T&U hotel is that all the rooms have valley view and we are close to the city and at the same time the guest gets a feeling of a resort. We also provide other facilities like internet, recreation area, lawn dining, travel desk and above all ample space for car parking. www.tanduleisurehotel.com
39
KARNATAKA TRAVELLER
Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuar y
A bio-diversity hotspot
B
hadra Wildlife Sanctuary,
Sanctuary, after the village of its
vulture, great horned owl, great
Animals like the flying snake, rock
nestled in the lush tropical
periphery.
pied hornbill, Indian tree pie,
python, bronze backed tree snake,
black napped flycatcher and the
common garden lizard, monitor
open billed stork.
lizard, atlas moth, wild dog and
forests of the Western
The sanctuary is rich in wildlife
Ghats, in Chikmagalur district of
and home to the Indian Tiger. The
Karnataka is regarded as one of
leopard, sloth bear, giant squirrel,
the best Wildlife Sanctuaries in
gaur, sambar, elephant and
exotic butterflies, which include
India. The sanctuary is
slender loris are the other
yamfly, baronet, crimson rose,
surrounded by Mullaianagiri,
mammals to be found here.
southern birdwing, tailed jay,
a large variety of flora and fauna.
Hebbegiri, Gangegiri and
Among birds, those to be spotted
great orange tip, bamboo
More than 120 tree species grow
Bababudangiri hills and has the
are the blackwinged kite, king
treebrown and blue pansy.
here, which include Teak,
The sanctuary is also home to
the Indian pond turtle can also be spotted here. The sanctuary is also home to
tributaries of the Bhadra river
Rosewood, Mathi, Honne, Nandi,
flowing through it. On the western
Tadasalu and Kindal. There are
border of the sanctuary is the
also important medicinal plants to
back waters of the Bhadra
be found here. A big teak tree
Reservoir, which is surrounded by
called Jagara Giant with a girth of
scenic hills and steep slopes.
5.21 mts and aged about 300
Two famed hill resorts,
years is one of the attractions of
Kemmannugundi and Bababuden
the sanctuary. The southern part
Hills, are within the sanctuary.
of the sanctuary is rich in birds, butterflies and reptiles. More than
The sanctuary takes its name from the Bhadra River, which
250 species of birds, many of
flows through the sanctury. It is
which are endemic to the Western
also known as Muthodi Wildlife
Ghats, are spotted here.
TAT India, Thai Air Asia promote Thailand as venue for Indian weddings
T
ourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) New Delhi and Mumbai offices, in collaboration with Thai Air Asia, recently conducted a 6-day study tour to Thailand exclusively for the top wedding planners and organisers from various parts of India. The wedding planners were invited to Bangkok, Hua Hin and Phuket to inspect some of the most spectacular hotel properties with picturesque views. The hotels showcased their wide range of offerings with regards to cuisine, traditional Indian decoration, themes and flower arrangements for weddings as well as other celebrations. The wedding segment from India has been
40
consistently on the rise, along with other celebrations such as birthdays, anniversaries, graduation parties and family reunions due to its popularity as a value for money destination and its close Sethphan Buddhani proximity to Director, TAT Mumbai India which make flight options conducive. Sethphan Buddhani, Director of TAT Mumbai said, “This year we successfully organised a study tour for the Indian wedding planners in view to promote Thailand as a wedding destination. We showcased the awe inspiring luxurious properties in various cities of Thailand and have promised
consistent support to the Wedding Planners in the quest to make Thailand the number one destination for Indian Weddings.” “To promote Thailand as a Wedding Destination this year, Tourism Authority of Thailand will sponsor the
bride and groom, who are planning to tie the knot in Thailand, in the form of incentives. This promotion will be taking place from September 2011 onwards for the first 50 couples on a firstcome-first-serve basis,” he added.
ASIAN TRAVELLER
JUNE 2011
GUJARAT TRAVELLER
Remains of a glorious past
L
akhpat is an amazing sea
extremely clear desert air and
fort situated in the mouth of
remote location, the night sky is
Kori Creek. It was once an
spectacular (visit near the new
important port city but now
moon for best stargazing) and
virtually abandoned for almost
sunrise or sunset in a landscape
200 years. This is one place
of such endless horizons are not
where one could imagine the rise
to be missed.
and decline of a great port city,
Lakhpat has religious
and simultaneously contemplate
significance for three of India’s
the vast emptiness of the desert
most populous religions: Guru
and the sea.
Nanak, the founder of Sikhism,
Sindhu River used to flow into
reportedly camped here on his
Lakhpat and further onto
journey to Mecca. The site later
with very complex carvings and a
amongst others in the old town
Deshalpar. The earthquake of
became a gurudwara, which holds
water tank that is said to have
are the remains of a glorious past.
1819 A. D. changed Sindhu’s
some of Nanak’s possessions; Pir
healing properties for skin
course of flow and the river now
Ghaus Muhammed, a Sufi mystic
problems. Sayyed Pir Shah’s nine-
animals too. It is a delight to see
drains into the sea.
who from the age of twelve
domed mausoleum has intricate
the Chinkara and the Nilgai. One
The region has a lot of wild
devoted himself to spiritual
carvings, doors, windows and
has to be very lucky to spot the
erected in 1801 by Jamadar Fateh
practice and reportedly practiced
jaalis.
caracal or the civet. The sight of
Muhammed, are still nearly intact,
half as a Hindu and half as a
and offer tremendous views out
Muslim, is buried here in Lakhpat.
Syed Pir Shah Dargah, Nani Mai
partridges follow one right up to
over the Rann. Due to the
His tomb is a stone construction
Dargah, Hatkeshwar Temple
the fort of Lakhpat.
The seven km fort walls,
ASIAN TRAVELLER
JUNE 2011
The Gosh Mohmad Kuba,
peacocks and the call of the
41
TAMIL NADU TRAVELLER
Vailankanni the exalted shrine of India Dr. S. Bakthavatchalam
T
of honor to two Franciscan saints,
that occurred on his way. On
chapel became a holy place of
St. Anthony of Lisbon and St.
inspection, the man found the milk
veneration to Our Blesses mother
he church popularly called
Francis of Assisi, on either side of
pot to be full and realized that
and She was called henceforth,
“Our Lady of Vailankanni” is
the miraculous image of ‘Our
something miraculous had
Mother of Good Health (“Arokia
in the small town of
Lady’, on the High Altar until 1961.
happened.
Matha”).
Vailankanni located 150 miles
Today, the celebration of this
south of Madras in Tamil Nadu
feast is an annual festival which
and 5 miles south of
lasts for nine days and draws
Nagapattinam.
more than a million and a half
Vailankanni was a part of the
pilgrims.
parish of Nagapattinam, but it was
His Holiness Pope John XXIII
raised to the status of an
issued orders raising the Shrine to
independent parish in 1771. Fr.
the exalted status of a Minor
Antonio de Rozario the last parish
Basilica. Thus the Shrine of
priest of the Church of the
Vailankanni became the Shrine
Immaculate Conception under the
Basilica of Vailankanni in
Padroado system, the king of
November 1962 and was linked to
Portugal in Europe met all the
In the sixteenth century, Our
The residents of the local
the St. Mary’s Major Basilica in
expenses incurred by the Diocese
Lady with her infant son appeared
Catholic community became
Rome. Vailankanni attracts
of Mylapore, which remained
to a Hindu boy carrying milk to a
ecstatic and the tank where the
multitude of pilgrims than any
under the ecclesiastical
customer’s home, asked for milk
apparition appeared is called
other sacred shrine in India.
jurisdiction of the Roman Pontiffs.
for her Son and the boy gave her
“Matha Kulam” or Our Lady’s tank.
Today, the celebration of this feast
The Franciscan origin and
some. The boy apologized for his
ownership of the Shrine was also
lateness and the reduced amount
chapel for Our Lady at the site of
for 9 days and draws more than a
perpetuated, by giving the place
of milk by relating the incident
Her second appearance and the
million and a half pilgrims.
The man erected a thatched
is an annual festival which lasts
Igloo
ASIAN TRAVELLER
JUNE 2011
43
EXPERIENCE
Beer, bagels, rockets and two British boys When Oscar Rousseau decided to spend three months in a kibbutz in Israel, he was looking forward to a quiet and peaceful time. But he got more than he had bargained for.
S
o... this is a normal morning breakfast for volunteers here at Holit? inquests my equally bemused partner in crime, Ben Dunne. As our kibbutznik comrade takes a gargantuan mouthful of fresh bagel, bulging with hummus and cottage cheese, we are duly informed that – of all the 270 listed kibbutzim in Israel – ours is the only one that retains the tradition of consuming Goldstar beer with breakfast. Splendid, we think, as we wet our whiskers on Zion’s homebrew. A kibbutz is community agricultural settlement in Israel, habitually in a rural location. The ‘members’ of which are known as kibbutzniks. All property on the kibbutz is owned by the community and all income generated is shared by the kibbutz. Many kibbutzim have factories that produce anything from plastics to fruit juicers. Meals are prepared in a community kitchen and eaten in a common dining room. Before travelling to Israel, volunteering on a kibbutz conjured up a fragmented cluster of images, based on what life would be like for the next three months. I could not ascertain if the kibbutzim’s ideology was anything near a match made in heaven with my own beliefs, and I continued to question myself on why I was travelling to a place notorious for its ‘anything you can do, I can do bigger’ military mentality. However, I embarked on the
44
adventure and... the rest is history. The kibbutz I called home for next three months, Holit, was one of, if not the, smallest Oscar Rousseau kibbutz in all of Israel. We arrived there on one of many sweltering, sweaty and splendid days, full of anticipation, enthusiasm and a slither of angst. Not only was our kibbutzim one of the smallest, it was also the closest to the Gaza Strip. Literally, you could walk down our desert road and on your righthand side you would see Israel and on your left, you could quite clearly distinguish Gaza and the Sufa Crossing. Members of our kibbutz did not hesitate to show Ben and I their houses, which had been scared by shrapnel, some of which badly damaged from the Hamas rockets, which were regularly fired over, aimed at the city of Beersheba some 40 km away. It was a frightful experience, at times, settling in. Like clockwork, rockets would be fired by both parties - shaking the window frames of the house we lived in, and for the first week I had to sleep in a bomb shelter as the shelling was quite recurrent. Life as a volunteer has been the happiest time of my life! It was the first
time in my eighteen years of existence, that I finally had a bona fide taste of independence and life away from education, family, work and future prospecting. It was just my best friend and I, getting lost in the thrills of being part of an entirely different culture, society and religion. As the essence of a kibbutz is a centralized, communistically-contained society, all volunteers have allocated jobs
to help with the remuneration and general wellbeing of the community. Predominantly, I envisaged these tasks to be quite trauma-free and nonchalant; perhaps, I would try my hand at cooking or work on my cameral tan, outside, in the many carefully-tended gardens. I never for a minute thought I would be sent out into the Negev desert, to dig four five-foot ditches; where we would have to lay lengths and lengths of carbon steel piping down to feed water to the vegetation that would be impossible to cultivate without this technology. The work was extremely tough at times, especially when we were working in temperatures of up to 45 degrees. But, on a whole, the irrigation project proved to be a worthwhile and fantastic experience. After our irrigation project was complete, we were relocated to the
ASIAN TRAVELLER
JUNE 2011
EXPERIENCE mango groves for several weeks and then onto the kitchen: so in the end I did get to try my hand at preparing some Israeli cuisine and was able to add Shakshuka and Falafel to my slowly growing culinary repertoire. What I found most appealing about Israel, was how beautiful the hybridization of Mediterranean
and Middle Eastern cultures appeared to be. Tel Aviv beach was, and of course still is, gorgeous, with its year-round
ASIAN TRAVELLER
JUNE 2011
warm azure blue waters, set against a backdrop of nightclubs, chic bars and quaint little markets, with hole-in-wall vendors selling fresh hummus and shawarmas. Any trip to Israel would be pretty much worthless if you do not amble along into Jerusalem, or as many call it the ‘abode of peace’ – somewhat of an oxymoron. Visiting the Western Wall had a very profound impact on both Ben and I. We met a Rabbi there, whose name was Yose Ben Yoezer, a stupendous man with a magnificent beard, who gave us an exciting tour through the tunnels that ran between the Temple Mount and the old city. The three months living in the beautiful, palm tree-fringed kibbutz seemed to whiz by, and came about all too abruptly. It was up until then, the best time of my life. I have made friends who came from places like Africa, Canada, USA, Australia and Belgium, and of course a multitude from Israel, all of whom, I remain in contact with nearly
a year later. The experience that I took away from Israel has had a fundamental impact on me and has changed the very fabric of the person I am today in a way you can only attain by jumping on the next jet and heading to the holy land.
45
HOSPITALITY
Fortune launches Fortune Park Boulevard in New Delhi
F
ortune Park Hotels Ltd, a
opening of this property in
wholly-owned subsidiary of
Chhatarpur, Fortune Hotels now
ITC, has announced the
has 38 operational hotels, 63
opening of its 38th property,
signed alliances spread across 47
‘Fortune Park Boulevard’ in New
cities in India. “We are
Delhi at Chhatarpur.
delighted to bring
Fortune Park
the Fortune Hotels
Boulevard is the
banner to capital
first Fortune
city. We will be able
hotel to open in New Delhi. The
to redefine service standards and
chain already has a presence in
look forward to expanding our
Delhi NCR with two operational
presence with more properties
destination for elite social events,
Fortune Park Boulevard is
hotels in Gurgaon and one in
opening up in Delhi/NCR region in
top end MICE and unforgettable
designed to host meetings and
Noida. Another hotel in New Delhi
the near future,” said Suresh
holidays with friends and family.
events of virtually any shape or
would be opening shortly on the
Kumar, Chief Executive Officer,
Mehrauli Gurgaon Road. With the
Fortune Hotels.
Home to 135 years old Banyan
Floor is a boardroom that is
leaves lending freshness and
apportioned for meetings of up to
lush green trees,
liveliness to the hotel’s ambience,
12 people.
water bodies,
here is a destination where one
open spaces and
can celebrate life and make one’s
furnished rooms with some of
sprawling lawns,
wish of that perfect wedding, or a
them having a private sit out and
this contemporary
festivity or any other special
lawn. The interiors of the rooms
and upscale
occasion come true with its
have been done in a
banqueting hotel
aesthetically designed interiors
contemporary style décor and
is all set to
and perfect ambience. With more
come equipped with an excellent
become the
than 2000 sq ft of indoor space
range of guest amenities.
preferred
and 15000 sq ft of garden space,
www.fortunehotels.in
Surrounded by
IT&CMA and CTW 2011
Larger Participation expected
I
T&CMA and CTW 2011, Asia’s Only Doublebill Event in MICE and Corporate, which will be held in Bangkok has over 100 professionals registered till date. This includes first-time participants across a variety of industry sectors from Germany, Italy and China. The growing list of participating delegates includes Corporate Travel buyers, influencers and decision makers from close to 50 corporations. Results have been credited to engagement
ASIAN TRAVELLER
efforts that earn the support of these Corporate Travel Managers. In early March, the firstever Advisory Planning Committee for Corporate Travel World (CTW) was launched in Singapore, with the objective of driving CTW’s programme content and building the network of international Travel Managers. The committee comprises of influential travel managers from the Banking, IT,
JUNE 2011
size. Also, located on Ground
Tree still laden with bright green
Entertainment and Governmental sectors. “CTW 2011’s programme Darren Ng Managing Director of has been TTG Asia Media crafted to the needs and objectives of today’s Corporate Travel Managers. We want to continue establishing CTW as an industry-driven conference that the community wants to attend on an annual basis.” explained Darren Ng, Managing Director of TTG Asia Media – Organiser of IT&CMA and CTW.
The hotel has 34 beautifully
Kenya to host UNWTO conference
T
he 90th session of the United Nations World Tourism
Organization (UNWTO) Executive Council meeting will for the first time in Sub-Saharan Africa be held in Kenya this year. The event is scheduled for June 19 - 21, 2011 at Mombasa. The Council, which is the UNWTO’s executive arm, brings together 31 member countries elected by the General Assembly to prepare the Organization’s programme of work and budget. It meets twice a year and also selects topics impacting on the tourism sector for debate in the Annual General Assemblies.
47
KERALA TRAVELLER
Executive Events gets ISO 9001: 2008 certification
E
xecutive Events, the Kochi
sports events, theme parties etc…
Weddings. It also consists of
based event management
and believes in making every
Event news, state news, tours
company, became the first
event truly eventful.
event management company in
With the
New Director for Kerala Tourism
packages and also article on creating
Kerala to get the ISO 9001: 2008
certification of ISO
unforgettable
Certification by BSCIC. The
9001 :2008 by BSCIC
impression.
company has successfully
the quality control
completed seven years of
programme applies to
plans to cover events,
operation excelling in conference
all departments like
happenings, brands,
management, especially in the
HR & Administration,
industry specific
medical field. It has extensive
Finance, Operations,
articles, industry-state
experience in
Productions, M.I.C.E, IT, Technical
related articles, articles by experts
organizing
and Design Unit.
and an exciting gallery for events
Executive Events has also
corporate and
The newsletter
held. “Through this publication,
product based
ventured into the arena of
we look forward to bring you the
events, medical,
publication and released Excite –
state of affairs and the exciting
scientific and
the first newsletter by event
moments of event management
industrial
Management Company in India
segment. More over it is expected
and in the whole of south for the
to elucidate you on every nuances
event industry.
of this unique sector” said Raju
conferences,
Raju Kannampuzha, Managing Director
presentations and seminars, exhibitions, weddings, private get together,
48
The first issue of Excite is on managing grand events –
Kannampuzha, Managing Director
Rani George IAS
K
erala government has appointed Rani George IAS as the director of Kerala Tourism with the additional charge of Special Secretary, Coir Department. Rani George, a 2001 Kerala cadre IAS officer, replaces M Sivasankar IAS.
Executive Events.
ASIAN TRAVELLER
JUNE 2011
KERALA TRAVELLER
Le Meridien Kochi celebrates Green Week
A
s part of the World
On June 8, the management
Environmental Day
planned to clean and plant
celebration on June 5, Le
saplings outside the compound
Meridien Kochi has organised a
wall and the nearby surroundings.
week long activity to acknowledge
This drive was planned to set an
this significant day. The hotel
example as how to keep ones
formally launched the 'Green
surrounding clean and green. A
Week' on June 5, by unveiling
green theme workshop was
'Green Initiative Posters' at the
conducted on June 9 by a team of
hotel lobby by Rajesh Madan,
Managers and Associates at the
General Manager, involving the
Mangai School, Maradu for the
associates and the guest. To keep
students.
the momentum on a high note on
This activity educated the
June 6, a creative "Green Slogan"
students on preserving the
was displayed at the associate
environment and enlightened
entrance and at the back-office to
them with simple techniques that
create awareness among
can be practiced in their daily
associates. On June 7, small
lives to save energy.
"Green Flag Tags" were designed
On June 10, the Green Week was
and worn by associates on their
concluded by conducting a
uniforms. This in turn was a silent
collage competition for the
green message among the guest
associates with the theme: "Go
and others around in the hotel.
Green".
ASIAN TRAVELLER
JUNE 2011
49
VARIETY
Peter Paul has joined as the Chief Operating Officer of ATE Hospitalities, the hospitality division of the ATE Group, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala. He is in charge of the hotel division branded ‘The Capital’. He will also be in charge of Bekel Discovery, a premium venture of the ATE Group.
Divakar Shukla has joined Dream Cochin (a division of Vikram Chatwal Hotels), Kochi, Kerala as General Manager.
Unnikrishnan Nair has taken charge as General Manager at Carmelia Haven Resort, Vandanmedu, Thekkady at Idukki in Kerala.
Nalina Saravanan has been promoted as Hotel Manager of Le Royal Meridien, Chennai, Tamil Nadu. Prior to her elevation she was the Director-Operations, handling the Rooms Division.
1.
1. The word ‘myriad’ in English means many or innumerable. What does the original Greek word stand for? Rio de Janeiro
2.
What is ‘Project Tungsten’ about?
3.
What is a fatware?
4.
Which prize is known as ‘Mathematician’s Nobel Prize’? 5.
What is Mosfilm?
6.
What is the meaning of the city name Rio de Janeiro?
Lincoln
7.
What was the height of President Abraham Lincoln?
8.
Who has launched the cable channel OWN recently in US?
9.
Which capital city’s name means ‘Stone City’ in its native tongue?
10. Which country’s anthem is ‘Bilady, Bilady, and Bilady’ (My country, my country, my country!)
Compiled by DEEKAY
JUNE 2011 Internal Travel Expo (ITE), Hong Kong International Luxury Travel Market Asia (ILTM Asia), Shanghai China Champakkulam Boat Race
9-12 13-16 16
Beijing International Tourism Expo (BITE), Beijing China
17-19
JULY 2011 Puri Rath Yatra, Orissa
3
Aviation Outlook, China
Send in your answers to info@mediastepsindia.com with TYKC 45 in the the subject line. Answers should reach us before the 30th of this month. Answers to TYKC 44 1. White Fort (Celtic language), 2. The forty tribes of the country (the word ‘Kyrgyz’ also is Turkic for forty), 3. Stanford, 4. Moet & Chandon (France), 5. Mozilla was the portmanteau word of ‘Mosaic + Killer’ as it came out as a competitor to the then popular browser Mosaic, 6. Malaysian Airlines, 7. Aqaba, 8. Hotel Savoy, London (1889), 9. Zealand, 10. Iberian Peninsula (Spain & Portugal)
6-7
India International Travel Mart (IITM), Bangalore
29-31
TYKC 44
AUGUST 2011 Teej Festival, Jaipur
2-3
India International Travel Mart (IITM), Chennai
5-7
Nehru Trophy Boat Race, Alappuzha CIBTM, Beijing China
13
M B RATNANVAR Srishti Heights, Mira Road, Thane, Mumbai
30-Sept 1
One all-correct entry will get
SEPTEMBER 2011 India International Travel Mart (IITM), Mumbai
3-5
Free Stay at Le-Meridien, Kochi
PATA Travel Mart, New Delhi
6-9
[ 2 nights and 3 days for two ]*
Onam, Kerala
8-9
Aranmula Boat Race Ladakh Festival, Ladakh IFTM Top Resa, Paris France World Tourism Day Durga Puja Festival, West Bengal
50
14 1-15 20-23 27 26-Oct 6
Nestled amongst 25 acres of coconut groves and backwater rivers, Le Méridien Cochin Resort & Convention Centre sits at the heart of one of India's most naturally beautiful cities, Kochi. This prestigious landmark houses 5 floors of luxurious accommodation for international business and leisure travelers. The 151 spacious rooms and suites, most with breathtaking views over the manicured gardens and the backwaters. * Conditions apply
ASIAN TRAVELLER
JUNE 2011