Vol. 3 • No. 2 • November 2009
Inside 6
this issue
Confidence in Tourism Sector Improving
The United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) has reported that confidence in the sector is gradually picking up. It says while international arrivals worldwide are estimated to have declined by seven per cent bet ween January and August 2009, the downward trend that started in September last year may have begun to bottom out.
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India to Develop Short & Medium Haul Markets to Beat the Slowdown
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Coorg
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The Road to Sanctit y
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Colours of Deser t
The ongoing global economic slowdown has a cascading ef fect on the tourism sector and has adversely af fected tourism world over, said Kumari Selja, Tourism Minister, India. She was talking at the UNWTO Minister's summit on "Tourism: Tackling Global Crisis" in London.
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Tourism Leaders Call for Supportive Global Policies
Tourism Ministers meeting at the UNWTO Ministers’ Summit at World Travel Market, London has called for global policies that are supportive of the travel and tourism industry. Ministers recalled that tourism is one of the world's top job creators and can be a key driver of recovery and the transformation towards the Green Economy.
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Louis Cruises India Launched with Kochi as Homeport
Louis Cruises India, a subsidiary of the Louis Cruises, the world’s fif th largest cruise operator has launched its operations in India with Kochi as its homeport. Louis Cruises is the cruise arm of Louis Group, a leading European tourism organization based in the Mediterranean with a 74-year-old history.
11 Kerala Tourism Plans ‘Kerala Specialists’ in UK 15 Leela Bangalore wins WTA 18 As I Travel 25 Margazhi 26 Third Edition of GKSF Set to Become A Grand Affair NOVEMBER 2009
UTKARSH FAUJDAR General Manager Hulhule Island Hotel, Maldives
SONALEE VAZ Mumbai Representative Office, TAT & MD, Charson Advisory Services. Mumbai, India
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Cover Photo Courtesy: Gujarat Tourism
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ASIAN TRAVELLER
editor ’s note
A Editor & Publisher Group Editor Vice President & CEO Executive Editor Consultant Editors
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he decline in tourist arrivals by seven percent between January and August not withstanding the UNWTO World Tourism Barometer indications have been interpreted by industry watchers as a good sign. According to statistics available, destinations worldwide have recorded a total of 600 million arrivals, still down from 643 million in the same period last year. But the downward trend that started in September last year seem to be easing and the arrivals in the two high-season months of July and August has declined only by three percent compared to a decrease of eight per cent in the first half of the year. More over the data available for September points to a continuation of this upward trend. According to the report "the softening in the rate of decline seen in the last months is expected to continue during the remainder of the year". Besides UNWTO's initial forecast for the coming year indicates that international tourist arrivals are likely to witness a moderate recovery in 2010, with an increase of growth at one to three per cent. This projections simply means a gradual improvement of international tourism figures in recent months, as well as the better-than-expected economic indicators in some major source markets. The UNWTO report also predicts that Asia will show the strongest rebound. But Europe and the Americas will probably take longer to recover. At the same time Africa is forecast to continue in positive territory as in 2009. The 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa will be an additional boost to the region it seems. Growth is also expected to return to the Middle East. The end of the recession in a number of key markets is welcome news. The report also cautions that 2010 will still continue to be a difficult year. "The risks associated with the A(H1N1) influenza virus remain on the horizon and the pace of economic recovery is expected to be modest. On the positive side, consumer confidence is giving signs of picking up, and interest rates and inflation are expected to remain at low levels". But things are getting better and the travel and tourism industry can look forward to better things.
G. BIJU KRISHNAN Editor & Publisher editor@mediastepsindia.com ASIAN TRAVELLER
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Publication : : : : :
G. Biju Krishnan G. Gopakumar* M. P. Sreekumar Lerbin T. K. A.G.K. Kumar Om Prakash Sahgal Photo Editor : Retheesh Kariyam Art Editor : Amal Prasad Editorial Team : R. Parameswaran Smitha R. Director (Marketing) : Vinu V. Nair Director (Finance) : K. Harikrishnan Legal Advisor : Adv. G.S. Prakash Financial Advisor : B. Prasad G.M-North : Wg. Cdr. V. K. Gangal Sr.Mgr. Tamilnadu : P. Deenadayalu KSA Sam Mathew, Tel: 00966-505150513 London Abdul Najeeb, Tel: 0044-7769940391 UAE Sanjeev S. L., Tel: 00971 508914709 Kuwait Mariam Titus, Tel: 00965 6638670 New Delhi V. K. Gangal, Tel: 09871180498 Mumbai Mahesh Nair, Tel: 022 32499989 Bangalore Sandeep Viswanath, 09845179243 Chennai Nisha J., Tel: 09841008588 Hyderabad K.S. Johnson, Tel: 09441236010 Dehradun P. Mohandas, Tel: 09719055472 Madurai P. Deenadayalu, Tel: 09843129535 Ernakulam M. P. Sreekumar, Tel: 09447118694 Thiruvananthapuram Vinu V. Nair, Tel: 09745444177 Administration Jaya Rajeshwari, Soniya S., Vidhu Krishna, Jayesh All communications to: Media Steps India, TC-27/1741, PERA-66, Vanchiyoor PO, Thiruvananthapuram–695 035, Kerala State, South India. Tel: +91-471-6540888, 2574411, 09447 555 222 info@mediastepsindia.com, w w w.mediastepsindia.com Regd. Of fice: Media Steps India, TC-27/1915, MBRRA 70, Mathrubhoomi Rd., Thiruvananthapuram–695 001, Kerala State, South India. Mumbai Of fice: Media Steps India, Unit 9 & 10, Sardar Pratap Singh Industrial Estate No. 2, LBS Marg, Bhandup West, Mumbai-400078, India Tel.: +91 22 32499989 Hyderabad Of fice: Media Steps India, # B-305 & 309, Vasudha Apartments, Quthbullapur Road, New Jeedimetla, Hyderabad-500 055, AP, India Tel.: +91 40 23080750, +91 40 23176966, +91 40 23176996, Fax: +91 40 27535260 Chennai Of fice: Media Steps India, 6/4, Sangeetha Gardens, 19th Street Ex t, Jai Nagar, Arumbakkam, Chennai - 600 106. Tel: +91 44 42640531 Edited, Printed & Published by G. Biju Krishnan and Printed at M/s. Safire Of fset Printers, Sivakasi, Tamil Nadu for Cristal Printers, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala State, South India. Reg No.: KERENG 01910/11/1/2006-TC New Reg No.: KERENG / 2007 / 28719 RNI Reg. No.: 101276 The news items and Advertisements published herein have been collected from various source, which are considered to be reliable. Readers are however requested to verif y the facts before making business decisions using the same. No par t of this magazine may be reproduced without the written permission from the Publisher. All rights reser ved. Copyright © 2008 *Responsible for selection of news under the PRB Act
NOVEMBER 2009
world view
Confidence in Tourism Sector Improving
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af ter t wo periods at a historic low. The more than 330 experts surveyed worldwide by UNWTO confirm that confidence is picking up. In the latest survey, the percentage of experts with a negative outlook for the nex t four months has decreased from 62 per cent to 42 per cent while, for 30 per cent of experts, prospects are 'equal', and for 28 per cent they are 'bet ter' or 'much bet ter'. "Throughout this year, the world's tourism industry was faced with a large number of challenges, led by the global economic crisis, the credit crunch and rising unemployment, not to mention the influenza pan-
demic. Seldom in recorded tourism history has the industry had to contend with so many dif ferent issues at the same time,"said UNWTO Secretary-General Taleb Rifai. "However, the negative trend that emerged during the second half of 2008 and intensified in 2009 is starting to show signs of receding." As experienced in previous crises, tourism earnings have suf fered somewhat more than arrivals as consumers tend to
trade down, stay closer to home and travel for shorter periods of time. Receipts from international tourism are estimated to have contracted in real terms by nine to 10 per cent in the first six months of 2009 - that is, one to t wo percentage points below the decline in international arrivals during that period (-8 per cent).
Photo : Tourism Australia
he United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) has reported that confidence in the sector is gradually picking up. It says while international arrivals worldwide are estimated to have declined by seven per cent bet ween January and August 2009, the downward trend that started in September last year may have begun to bottom out. "Arrivals in the two high-season months of July and August declined by three per cent compared with a decrease of eight per cent in the first half of the year, and data available for September points to a continuation of this upward trend," the UNWTO says. It added that the UNWTO Confidence Index is also improving
India to Develop Emerging Short and Medium Haul Markets to Beat the Slowdown
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Kumari Selja Tourism Minister India
NOVEMBER 2009
he ongoing global economic slowdown has a cascading ef fect on the tourism sector and has adversely af fected tourism world over, said Kumari Selja, Tourism Minister, India. She was talking at the UNWTO Minister's summit on "Tourism: Tackling Global Crisis" in London. She highlighted the major initiatives taken by India to meet the challenges. The ministry has introduced a scheme called the "Visit India Year - 2009" in close partnership with the airlines, hotels and tour operators to at tract visitors to India from dif ferent countries. Promotional ef forts in key source markets have been enhanced through important global events, road shows and outdoor
advertising campaigns. India is also making conscious ef forts to develop emerging short and medium haul markets and for this, development and promotion of the Buddhist circuits is carried out, she added. Commonwealth Games have given an opportunity for showcasing India as a unique and hospitable tourism destination, she said. It is expected that a large number of tourists would visit the country nex t year, bringing back the buoyancy in the sector. The ministry has been working towards developing adequate accommodation, sprucing up the tourism infrastructure and enhancing the quality of hospitality related services to make the visit a truly pleasurable and enriching experi-
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ence for visitors during and af ter the CWG-2010. The goodwill generated through the successful organization of this mega sporting event would enable a sustainable grow th of tourism sector, Kumari Selja added. Later, while addressing a press meet at the WTM venue, the Minister highlighted the key initiatives undertaken by India to develop tourism sector including the niche products of adventure, rural, medial and wellness tourism. The policies initiated to facilitate and support heliport and caravan tourism were also mentioned. The infrastructure in and around Delhi is being developed to cater to the needs of the high influx of tourists expected nex t year.
ASIAN TRAVELLER
world view
Tourism Leaders Call for Supportive Global Policies round 80 Tourism Ministers meeting at the UNWTO Ministers’ Summit at World Travel Market, London has called for global policies that are supportive of the travel and tourism industry.
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requested not to impose extra burdens on travel, such as fiscal measures, and to maintain stimulus policies in support of tourism as this in turn will contribute to sustainable economic growth.
Ministers recalled that tourism is one of the world's top job creators and can be a key driver of recovery and the transformation towards the Green Economy. As the global economy still struggles, governments were
In the context of the UNWTO Roadmap for Recovery, UNWTO Secretary-General, Taleb Rifai stressed that “Travel and tourism stakeholders must work together in same way as world leaders, we
have to move forward on the spirit of global cooperation”. The Roadmap highlights tourism's contribution to the ongoing global efforts to tackle the economic crisis and positions tourism as a primary vehicle for job creation, economic recovery and the transformation to the Green Economy “Tourism needs to win positions on national and global agendas. Our industry can build effective and longstanding bridges between the public and private sector, be a reliable job creator and as a global industry contribute to both climate change response and poverty alleviation”, he added. Tourism Ministers stressed that actions are required which boost trade, simplify regulation, build infrastructure and rationalize taxes.
Against this background, the recently introduced UK Air Passengers Taleb Rifai Duty which UNWTO from 1 Secretary-General November will increase exponentially the charges for tourists out of the UK, was debated. “This is a discriminatory tax, not an environmental tax but a tax on development which fails to understand the importance of tourism to developing countries but also to the UK itself. This decision comes at the wrong time and sends the wrong signal, especially from a country that wants to contribute to global development”, said Rifai, echoing widespread concern by the attending ministers, delegations and private sector representatives.
SA to Host Inaugural UNWTO Summit on Tourism
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s a reflection of the impor tance of the travel tourism sector to unlock the grow th potential of nations and the role of major sporting, business, and cultural events to re-inspire tourists to travel to global destinations, the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) and the South African Government has announced the travel tourism world's first international Tourism, Sport, and Mega-events Summit to be held in Sandton, South Africa from February 24-26, 2010. Held parallel to the annual Meetings Africa, Africa's top annual business tourism exhibition by South African Tourism, the summit will provide a forum for active discussion, debate, and direction around the leverage of mega-
NOVEMBER 2009
events as a vital force for sector grow th and advancement in national development strategies. A number of major global events will be held in 2010, including the FIFA World Cup in South Africa; the Commonwealth Games in India; the World Exhibition in Shanghai, China; and the Winter Games in Canada. With this taken into consideration, Marthinus van the UNWTO Schalkwyk seeks to align Minister for Tourism, SA the global Travel Tourism sector's leadership to create a framework for leveraging sport and other mega-events (including cultural and entertain-
ment events, exhibitions, and business conventions) for economic grow th. This process must take into account the economic, social, and environmental consequences for host nations and the massive multimedia opportunities for nation branding and export promotion. “South Africa is proud to be working with the UNWTO in the creation and hosting of the UNWTO's inaugural Tourism, Sport, and Mega-events Summit in 2010,” said South African Minister for Tourism Marthinus van Schalkwyk at the announcement of the summit. “We know that we, as a developing country, cannot af ford to have under-utilized infrastructure af ter the World Cup, and we understand that we must plan
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ahead to make sure our infrastructure and skills investments do not go to waste.” “This important meeting reflects the increasing economic and social impacts of sport, megaevents, and tourism. It will establish new lines of thinking on operations, economics, and sustainability. We are delighted to be working with South Africa - particularly in 2010 which will see a great sporting mega-event in the FIFA World Cup, which promises so much for Africa,” said Dr. Taleb Rifai, Secretary General of the UNWTO.
ASIAN TRAVELLER
luxur y
Louis Cruises India Launched with Kochi as its Homeport
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ouis Cruises India, a subsidiary of the Louis Cruises, the world’s fif th largest cruise operator has launched its operations in India with Kochi as its homeport. Louis Cruises is the cruise arm of Louis Group, a leading European tourism organization based in the Mediterranean with a 74-year-old history. The group has 20 luxury hotels in Greece and Cyprus and a fleet of 12 cruise ships. The launch of Louis Cruises India forms part of Louis Cruise’s strategy to further expand its international operations by entering and developing new markets. With cruising being a fairly new form of holidaying in the Indian market, Louis Cruises India aims to further introduce the benefits and beauties of cruising in comfort and style to some of the region’s most enticing destinations and at an excellent value for
money. Louis Cruises India will operate three-day and one-day cruises out of Kochi from December 2009 to May 2010 on board the MV Aquamarine. This luxury cruise ship has a carrying capacity of 1,200 passengers and comes with all the comforts and amenities to cater for the needs and hospitality of her Indian passengers. MV Aquamarine will of fer itineraries on the Kochi - Maldives - Kochi route and the Kochi - Colombo - Kochi route, in addition to a one-night high sea sailing itinerary. A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed bet ween the company and Kerala Tourism with the common goal to market and promote cruise tourism out of Kochi. The of ficial signing by M. Sivasankar, Director, Kerala Tourism and Oneil Khosa, Managing Director, Louis Cruises India took place in the presence of Kodiyeri Balakrishnan, Minister for Tourism and the Chairman of Cochin Port Trust, N. Ramachandran in Trivandrum recently. In his address during the ceremony, Minister for Tourism, Kodiyeri
Balakrishnan said that the increasing number of international cruise lines calling at Kochi is an indication that the port is emerging as a major destination for cruise tourism in the region. Kochi was a natural choice for Louis Cruises India, not just because it has all the characteristics and potential of
Cruises India is the only company that will be of fering cruises from Kochi targeted at the Indian market,” said Dr. Venu V. IAS, Secretary, Kerala Tourism. Speaking at the same ceremony, M. Sivasankar IAS, Director, Kerala Tourism underlined that “This new initiative will add on to the Kerala experience in a big
Oneil Khosa, MD, Luis Cruises;V.Dandapani COO, Airtravel Enterprises; E.M.Najeeb,CMD ATE; Zaheer E Najeeb, Director, Airtravel Enterprises; Ross Masood- Director, Great India Tour Company and . Rajan Thomas Verghese- Corporate Director Airtravel Enterprises at the launch in Kochi
an emerging cruise hub but also because of the positive approach of the State government towards tourism. “Nearly 60,000 travelers could be expected to embark on their voyage from Kochi. This would bring real economic benefit to the state in addition to generating new jobs for the local community,” he added. “Exotic voyages from Kochi, is an exciting product to of fer the Indian market, which is craving for new experiences. Louis
way. It will help tour operators to of fer even more at tractive holiday options by clubbing the cruises with their existing packages.” In order to distribute the cruise itineraries among potential Indian travellers the company has appointed six Preferred Sales Agents (PSAs) in the Indian market. The six PSA agents include: SOTC, Guidelines Travels Pv t. Ltd., Cox and Kings, Travel Tours Pv t. Ltd, Great India Tour Company (GITC) and Thomas Cook.
marketing
Kerala Tourism Organises Roadshows in Scandanavia
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erala tourism will be running a number of publicity movements and road-shows to attract more travellers to the state. The team led by M Sivasankar IAS, Director, Kerala Tourism has also been busy recently in Scandinavia conducting roadshows in dif ferent parts of the region. The grow th in tourist arrivals to Kerala recorded in 2008 was 103 and 46.3 per cent for Sweden and Denmark respectively. The first road-show was held at Oslo, Norway, earlier this week. The publicty event was also held at
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Copenhagen in Denmark and Helsinki in Finland. The last leg of the Scandinavian roadshow was in Stockholm, Sweden, on November 5. The shows got significant response as the event was attended by about 59 major tour operators in the Helsinki, 56 in the Copenhagen and 49 in Oslo. The other event include two consumers activities held in the include a 10-day ‘Delicious Kerala’ food festival and a three-day ‘Allt For Halsan’ (health and wellness) exhibition, where the traditional
M Sivasankar IAS, Director, Kerala Tourism addressing Norwegian tour operators in Oslo
ayurveda treatment system will be showcased. “Within Scandinavia, Sweden commands the largest share of
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outbound travel market in terms of volume and value, we are very keen to develop this market,” said Sivasankar.
NOVEMBER 2009
personality
Utkarsh Faujdar has more than two decades' experience in the hospitality industry. He has worked with a number of leading groups in India before moving to Maldives.
UTKARSH FAUJDAR Tell us about your hotel. Hulhule Island Hotel was of ficially inaugurated on August 15, 2001 by His Excellency President of Republic of Maldives. The hotel has earned a considerable number of compliments for both its high quality and personalized services since then and achieved the following milestones: Nominee at World Luxury Hotel Awards 2009, winner at World Travel Awards 2009, winner of 'Luxury Airport Hotel' Category at World Luxury Hotel Awards 2008 held in October 2008 in Cape Town, South Africa, winner of 'The Top & Outstanding Chefs 2009' in Maldives at Hotel Asia Culinary Challenge 2009, adjudged as 'Best Culinary Establishment' in Maldives at Hotel Asia Culinary Challenge 2008, adjudged as 'Best Culinary Establishment' in Maldives at Hotel Asia Culinary Challenge 2006, an ISO 9001-2000 hotel and HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points) certified Hotel. How do you position the Hotel in the market? We cater to a very diverse clientele that includes the leisure and business segments apart from the airline crew. We showcase our hotel at the major international travel trade fairs and we work closely with the tour operators from all across the world. Though we are at the airport island, I feel that the range of facilities of fered are far over and above what you expect from an airport hotel. This makes our positioning ex tremely unique. How important is a Hotel in developing a destination? I believe that the available infrastructure is imperative in driving business for any destination and hotels are definitely an integral part of the infrastructure. Over the past almost ten years, Hulhule Island Hotel has grown to become a key member of the travel and trade business in the Maldives. Hulhule Island Hotel has also
NOVEMBER 2009
become well-known for excellent service and delicious cuisine. Could you tell us about your background and how did you come to the industry? I was born in New Delhi and brought up in Lucknow. Whilst I completed my plus two, I was interested in looking at the career options which were not so mundane and the Hotel Management caught my fancy. During my graduation I appeared for the entrance examination through the National Council of Hotel Management and got selected. I joined the Lucknow Institute of Hotel Management in 1985. I must mention here the unconditional support and encouragement I have received from my family throughout my journey so far. My father, whom I lost in an unfortunate accident last year, was ex tremely supportive at all times and whatever lit tle I have been able to achieve is due to my parents who were besides me throughout my journey. Tell us about your experience so far? I passed out of hotel management institute in 1988 and was trained at dif ferent Taj properties during my curriculum which included Taj Mahal, New Delhi. I worked with Clarks Group of hotels for over six years in various destinations prior to joining Oberoi Group of Hotels. I worked with the Oberoi Group of Hotels in dif ferent units for almost ten years and my last assignment was as General Manager of Trident Hilton, Agra. I took up my current assignment in 2004 and have had five satisf ying years here at Maldives. What plans - immediate and long term - do you have? Well, I am totally commit ted to my current assignment and will continue to add value in order that we move from strength to strength. In the long term I would like to be involved at a corporate level and I truly believe in 'making a dif ference' in whatever one does.
Where would you like to see yourself, say, 10 years from now? As stated earlier, I wish to continue to contribute as much to the industry as possible and I see myself shouldering enhanced responsibilities and being busy as ever. Tell us about your family? Aparna, my wife has played an integral role in my life for me to attain whatever has been possible. We have t wo lovely daughters Vidyottama and Vidushi aged 13 and 10 years. We ensure that we have some quality time together during every vacation and we all look forward to the short breaks, when possible. We are a closely knit family. Our relatives and friends keenly await our visits to India and we have loads of fun with the members of ex tended family. Tell us about your hobbies and other interests? I have been a sportsman. I still try my hand at cricket, table tennis, badminton and other indoor games. I follow cricket regularly and I like listening to music of diverse nature. I am also fond of travelling and experiencing the hospitality in dif ferent parts of the world. Which is your favorite destination and why? My favourite destination undoubtedly is Maldives - the sunny side of life. There are innumerable reasons for my saying this, the most important being the water so pristine, the white beaches and underwater treasure of amazing dive sites. For a full version of this inter view visit w w w.mediastepsindia.com/at
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General Manager Hulhule Island Hotel Maldives
ASIAN TRAVELLER
marketing
Kerala Tourism Plans ‘Kerala Specialists’ in UK
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or the first time in the UK, travel agents will be able to become an Indian destination specialist. Kerala Tourism, became the first Indian tourism board to launch an online training programme for the travel trade. The Kerala Specialist programme was of ficially launched by the Minister for Tourism Kumari Selja, at the Incredible India Press Conference, at the World Travel Mart 2009 in London. Secretary for Kerala Tourism, Dr. Venu V. IAS, said that the Kerala Specialist programme was designed to tap the market further by reaching out to over 40,000 travel agents throughout the UK. He explained that the purpose of a self training programme in the UK is to help travel agents and tour operators in the UK to get acquainted with Kerala's tourism products and use this added knowledge to increase UK sales to
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Kerala. "Increasingly more and more Tourism Boards are reaching out to the trade in key markets by assisting sellers increase their knowledge, capability and sales to their respective destinations. Agents who participate in the Kerala Specialist online training programme and successfully complete the training programme will be awarded an of ficial certificate by Kerala Tourism, and referred to as Kerala Specialist". Dr Venu added that the Kerala Specialist programme would be ex tended to other markets. He also said that online programme could serve as a template for other tourism boards in India to emulate. The Kerala Specialist programme is developed in conjunction with Travel Uni, the leading online training provider in the UK specialising in providing destination, cruise, resort and product based training to the travel
trade. The programme contains 6 modules on Kerala including in depth knowledge about the history, culture and geography of the State; Kerala's tourist attractions; Tips and hints on how to sell Kerala; Kerala's uniqueness and how to get to Kerala. Amongst other things participation in the Kerala Specialist programme provides a number of advantages to UK sellers amongst
them - Increased knowledge of the regions in Kerala - including each region's unique selling points and how to build them into an itinerary; Improved capability to plan, promote and sell quality Kerala holidays; a Kerala Specialist certificate for display, so that customers can see at a glance that the agent is a specialist on Kerala holidays and knowledge and confidence to up-sell Kerala.
India Minister for Tourism, Kumari Selja at the WTM Kerala Pavillion in London
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NOVEMBER 2009
personality Sonalee Vaz who is the Managing Director of Charson Advisory Services, travel and tourism business is kind of 'family business'. How did you become interested in hospitality business? Having graduated from H. R. College of Commerce & Economics some time back, I went on to pursue a post graduation diploma in travel and tourism. It was my time spent in learning about the industry that first intrigued me. The concept of travel was etched in my memory as a young child travelling with my parents when my dad (a film producer / distributor) took us to various scenic locations and my later education instilled the basis for a career in travel and tourism
Sonalee Vaz Mumbai Representative Office Tourism Authority of Thailand & Managing Director Charson Advisory Services Pvt Ltd. Mumbai INDIA
NOVEMBER 2009
although as a family we also had interest in a travel agency through my brother. Later whilst I was studying, I met my husband who later went on to head Dubai's tourism promotional of fice in India. These years further instilled in me a passion for the industry and I soon found myself leaving the banking world to begin a business in this field with my husband's support. In early 2007, we launched Charson Advisory which I initially ran for a few months af ter which my husband took over and infused grow th into the company when his
clients moved in. What is your current role at your company? As Managing Director of the company, I am involved in all spheres of operations. My key role within the company is now divided as a representative for the Tourism Authority of Thailand supporting their of fice in Mumbai and spearheading our role in the Lotus Net work which is a consortium of PR agencies based in Europe. What plans - immediate and long term - do you have? Our immediate plans for the company are achieving the 2010 targets for client acquisitioning and an equal emphasis on employee training to meet the future demand and service requirements of our existing and new clients. Another of our immediate goals is the conversion of our location managers (project consultants) into of fices in New Delhi, Bangalore and Chennai. We are hopeful of achieving this through 2010. Our long term vision for Charson Advisory is to spread out of India by expanding the Lotus Net work in Singapore, Hong Kong, China and Japan. As a travel industry professional what is your ambition? Ten years from now is a long time to prophesize given we live in an industry that is very dynamic. My husband has taught me that the world of brand management, destination marketing and public relations is a realm where "you have to run as fast as you can today - to be in the same place as you were yesterday!" Who or what has been the greatest influence in your professional life? Well like most women, my idols are my father and husband. My father because he has taught me to always be open minded and receptive to new challenges in life. My husband because he has taught me how to face changes in today's business climate and more importantly how to think 'out of the box'. His 18 years in advertising and brand management have made him predict with an uncanny
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spirit the rise and demise of many brands that loose track of their genesis. I have learnt from him to follow the fine art of the Japanese business mantra "continuous improvement". As woman, what were the challenges you had to face in your professional life? My biggest challenges when launching Charson Advisory were not funds or clients, as my husband backed me from the first day. Clients followed as well. My biggest challenge was learning to manage the children who are at a very crucial age in their education whilst also focusing on business travel and grow th. What is the secret of your success? Very clearly all of us at Charson Advisory believe in 'continuous improvement'. What is your proudest moment (till date) in your job? It may sound clichĂŠd but it is true, all my personal and company moments are my proudest. Tell us about your family. Well husband, Carl Vaz, is known to most of everyone in the travel industry as he has been promoting Dubai for over 14 years! Quite honestly without him, Charson Advisory would not have the depth it has achieved and has yet to achieve. He loves scuba diving, is a student pilot and loves traveling. We both share a passion for travel. Our children - Charisma our daughter is the eldest is going on 13 and Sean our son is going on 7. We have been blessed as the children are able to enjoy both sets of grandparents who live close which is a tremendous value system for mental and family grow th and emotional support. What are your hobbies? I love to travel, its been a passion for me since I was a child. Places to see, history to learn and cultures to observe are so fascinating even for a child. My other passion is reading. For the complete version of this Q&A session visit w w w.mediastepsindia.com/at
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personality
Diabetes Assessment Van Launched
Amit Mitra, Director - Sales & Marketing, GRT Hotels & Resorts, Chennai
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ubsequent to my completing Management degree, I joined the Hospitality Industry and it has now been over 13 years in Hotel Sales & Marketing. I have been in the thick of the changes and have learnt to appreciate the rapidly changing scenarios. I derived considerable satisfaction operating under these conditions and delivering creative hospitality S&M solutions. I find inspiration by looking at the challenges in the global hospitality industry and evolving strategies towards gaining an edge in a highly competitive market. This is directly as a result of working in a highly enlightened organization like GRT Hotels & Resorts which allows me the freedom to conceptualize and implement new initiatives and take independent decisions.
Capt. C.P. Krishnan Nair, National Patron of Silver Star and Chairman, Leela Group of Hotels along with Digambar Kamat, CM, Goa; Amitabh Bachchan, International Patron, Silver Star and Keith Vaz, MP, House of Commons, UK (Founder Patron, Silver Star) at the launch of India’s First Mobile Diabetes Assessment Van (Captain Krishna) in Goa, India
Kerala Tour Operators Not Happy With TN RTO Tax
K
Listening to music rela xes me. At home, I read a wide variety of books and magazines and also watch TV as and when any thing interesting features. What I look forward to most, when I get home, is spending quality time with my daughter Mishti. The first glimpse of my daughter in the hospital where she was born and the excitement of me prancing the hospital corridor that night is the unforget table moment in my life. My ideal vacation is an ex tended break in a location where I can be with nature and family. The grow th in my career would not have been possible without the support of my wife Jaya who manages the house impeccably in addition to excelling in her own career. At various stages of my professional career I have looked up to select seniors whom I wanted to emulate. During the five years I have spent at GRT Hotels and Resorts, I have gained enormously as far as by professional development is concerned from three senior colleagues. I admire, T. Nataraajan, CEO for his ability to handle with ease an ex tensive port folio ex tremely competently and seamlessly. I have also been fortunate to work along with Ashok Anantram (Ex. VP- Sales & Marketing, ITC Hotels) and have learnt many new aspects of the S&M function and the ability to look at issues from a wide perspective. Mr. Vikram Cotah who was my GM while I was posted at Radisson GRT Hotel, taught me to appreciate the importance of an eye for detail and quality benchmarking. For the complete version of this ar ticle visit w w w.mediastepsindia.com/at
NOVEMBER 2009
erala Tour Operators have expressed unhappiness over the RTO Ta x of Tamil Nadu Government. "We are facing dif ficult situation considering the present scenario", said Thomas Varghese, President, Tourism Professionals Club, Kochi, Kerala. "The tour operators in Kerala are facing a deep problem due to the RTO ta x at the Tamil Nadu border and inside Tamil Nadu. As a result the heavy pick up ta x levied by Tamil Nadu, the tour operators are finally paying this exorbitant amount and in turn guests are bearing the cost. This will reflect in loss of business to Kerala operators since our package will be much more expensive than other states and even one who
goes to abroad will be cheaper than touring in Kerala", he added. As per a new ta x structure announced by Tamil Nadu Government recently the vehicles are physically measured and charged Rs 4900 per sq meter plus Rs 200 towards welfare fund. As per old ta x structure a large coach would incur around Rs 10800 for less than seven days and now as per the size of the vehicle average ta x would be around Rs 12150 for a week. This would vary depending on luxury, leg space and type of vehicle. "Transporters have yet to contest this ta x revision as there is no clear directives available on Tamil Nadu RTO web site or from their respective of ficers", said Thomas Varghese.
Kerala Tourism Wins TAFI Award
P.G. Suresh Kumar, Deputy Director, Kerala Tourism, receives the TAFI Award at Chiang Mai in Thailand
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ASIAN TRAVELLER
accolades
The Leela Palace Bangalore wins India’s Leading Business Hotel Award
T
he Leela Palace Kempinski Bangalore won 'India's leading business hotel' Award, third year in a row at a glitzy gala ceremony in London, on November 8 where the World Travel Awards (WTA) turned the spotlight on some of the people and companies behind the year's best travel products. "It is an honour to receive this 'Oscar' of the travel industry. And this brings the focus back to The Leela mission that every associate in our organization strives for - to sustain and surpass excellence in service, ambience and per formance. We do everything to ensure that our esteemed clients devote their time to the sole purpose of their stay - to conduct business and rela x in the most conducive environment," said Andrew Hendrian, General Manager, The Leela Palace Kempinski,
Bangalore. Nearly 1000 senior management and decision makers from the world's travel and tourism industry came together to celebrate their achievements at this star-studded event held in London. Some of the thought leaders who were present included: Jean-Claude Baumgartner, President, WTTC; Kumari Selja, Minister of Tourism, India; Steve Ridgway, CEO, Virgin Atlantic Airways; Hon. Ed Bartlet t, Minister of Tourism, Jamaica Tourist Board; His Excellency Mubarak Al Muhairi, Director General, Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority and James Hogan, CEO, Etihad Airways. WTA is recognized as the hallmark of excellence, the world's most prestigious awards program has been acknowledging the leading travel products around the globe for 16 years. To mark their
16th Anniversary in great style, World Travel Awards (WTA) is now expanding its port folio of regional awards. These regional award ceremonies recognize winners in their own territory and celebrate both individual success and the achievements of the industry. The Leela Palace Kempinski titled as the world's favourite overseas business hotel by Conde Nast; has won a series of awards this year and winning the Oscars of the Travel Industry has enhanced its grandeur. The Maharajah of Bangalore's hospitality icon, a symbol of imperiality and exclusivity, commended and authenticated by guests and travel experts alike, The Leela Palace Kempinski is famous for its regal design which is six stories high, with high arches and gold leaf domes located amidst nine acres of luxurious gardens
Capt. C P Krishnan Nair Chairman, Leela Group
and a sparkling tarn in the city of Bangalore is a sign of the magnificence that lies within. Hotel Leelaventure Ltd. operates The Leela Palaces, Hotels & Resorts in Mumbai, Bangalore, Goa, Kovalam (Kerala), Gurgaon and now in Udaipur. Located in key business and leisure destinations, and charting a pan India presence in the near future, The Leela Palaces, Hotels & Resorts are a blend of aesthetic sensibility, modern amenities and truly reflect the essence of India. New hotels will soon open in Chennai (2010) and New Delhi (2010); with future plans to develop hotels in Agra, Hyderabad and Pune. The group has marketing alliances with Germany based Kempinski (Hoteliers since 1897); US based Preferred Hotel Group and are members of Global Hotel Alliance based in Geneva, Switzerland.
Hulhule Island Hotel Wins ‘World Travel Awards’
H
ulhule Island Hotel has won World Travel Awards 2009. The Winner at World Travel Award for Maldives’ Leading Hotel was bestowed upon Hulhule Island Hotel, Maldives at a ceremony held in London recently. United Kingdom. On receiving this coveted award, Utkarsh Faujdar, General Manager - Hulhule Island Hotel emphatically stated, “This is indeed a recognition of the world class facilities and service excellence that Hulhule Island Hotel has attained by achieving the highest international standards in the hospitality industry”. He further added “The inexorable ef forts of my team have been instrumental in bringing this International award of repute to Hulhule Island Hotel.” Hulhule Island Hotel
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commenced operations in the year 2000. Since then, the Hotel has been a key member of the travel
and trade business in the Maldives. The Hotel is well-known for its unmatched hospitality services and the standards. Hulhule Island Hotel has 136 rooms, inclusive of various categories on of fer that comprises of Superior, Deluxe, Super Deluxe, Utkarsh Faujdar, Super General Manager Hulhule Island Deluxe with Hotel receives the Jacuzzi and award in London the Suites.
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The facilities for the guests at the hotel include the Spa, Gymnasium, Swimming Pool, Beach area, Landscaping, Tennis court, Golf put ting green and ex tensive Food & Beverage options. The diverse dining selections include a roof top restaurant ‘Uduvilaa’ with a panoramic view of both Male and the Indian Ocean catering to the multi-cuisine creations for the International clientele. Hulhule Island Hotel also boasts of being the ‘Best Culinary Establishment’ at Maldives and the team is proud in having professionals such as the ‘Most Outstanding Chef’ and ‘Top Maldivian Chef’ of the last Hotel Asia Exhibition & Culinary Challenge.
NOVEMBER 2009
destination
Coorg C
oorg or Kodagu is one of the most beautiful places in South India, which at tracts a large number of travellers and tourists. Coorg is
one among the southernmost districts of Karnataka state. The scenic beauty contributed by the endless mountain ranges, dense woods, ex tensive greenery, quaint villages, t wining roads, grasslands and plantations has helped itself to earn the sobriquet 'the Scotland of India'. Formerly called Mercara, Madikeri is the district headquarters of Coorg. The scenic place sits in the midst of misty hills, lush forests, large areas of tea
and coffee plantations, orange groves and panoramic views makes the place a popular holiday destination. The huge cardamom plantations are also a specialty here. The place is also known for its hospitality and vibrant traditions. The best thing about Coorg is that the is that it still survives as an untouched and un-spoilt destination. Spanning an area of 4,100 square kilometers in the Western Ghats, the
lowest elevation in the district is at 900 meters (2,900 f t) and highest peak, Tadiandamol, rises to 1,750 meters (5,700 f t) above sea level. The rich collection of flora and fauna of the place attracts a lot of nature enthusiasts. Coorg
is teeming with wildlife and has three wildlife sanctuaries and one national park: Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary, Talakaveri Wildlife Sanctuary and
Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary, and Nagarahole or Rajiv Gandhi National Park. Asian elephant, tiger, leopard, dhole, gaur, boar, and several species of deer can be spot ted here along with wide ranges of birds and but terflies. It also is home to an exotic collection of flora. The major places to visit in Coorg include Kakkabe, the largest producer of honey; Padi Igutappa temple, Omkareshwara Temple, Cauvery Nisargadhama, Bhagamandala and Telecauvery, Abbi Falls, Somwarpet the cof fee heartland, Iruppu Falls, Dubare,
Bhagamandala, Dargah sharief of Yemmemadu and Mandal Patti. Coorg also provides a variety of activities for those who love adventure and nature. Travellers prefer trekking through forests and hills, golfing, angling and white water raf ting. The renowned trek paths are Brahmagiri, Irrupa Falls, Pushpagiri, Tadiandamol etc. The traditional food of the place is famous and unique - especially the non-vegetarian section. They are mostly based on game meats, pork and other delicious ingredients. The place is ideal for shopping items like coffee, honey, spices, cardamom, pepper, pineapple, papads and oranges and other hill products. Coorgi silk saree is another at traction. The fairs and festivals of the region include those of Kodava community which are mostly agriculture related along with Keilpoldu - the Festival of Arms, Cauvery Shankaramana, Puthar the harvest festival etc.
Access Coorg is easily accessible from the outside world with well connected road connections to the east and west. The distance from Mangalore is 136 km and from Cannanore and Tellicherry, it is about 115 km. There are regular buses plying from these places to Madikeri. The Mysore - Mangalore highway (NH48) passes through Kodagu. The nearest railway station is at Mysore (146 km) and the airport is Mangalore (135 km). Where to Stay • Club Mahindra, Madikeri - w ww.clubmahindra.com • Orange County, Siddapur - w ww.orangecounty.in • Hotel Coorg International, Madikeri w w w.coorginternational.com • KSTDC, Mayura Valley View, Madikeri - w ww.kstdc.net • Capitol Village, Madikeri
NOVEMBER 2009
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ASIAN TRAVELLER
column
W
hat are the various ways of climbing up an oak tree? There are two. One is to start physically climbing the tree from its base to the top, step by step. The other is to bury an acorn, the oak seed in the sand and sit on it waiting for it to sprout and carry you alof t as it grows. The second one is the methodology most of us adopt for our own grow th. All of us want grow th in all kinds of spheres - career grow th, economic grow th, intellectual grow th, physical grow th, and spiritual grow th etc. But what do we do about for them? Precious V DURAIKKANNAN lit tle! As regards career grow th, one just joins a job and hopes to become nothing short of the CEO of the company over time as he is and where he is. Many tend to think that the mere number of years they put in the job should do the wonder. Most of the times, when somebody claims that he or she has already put in t wenty years of experience, it is mostly one year experience into twenty times rather than twenty years severally of grow th and experience. The tenure does not give grow th. The simplest way to check your grow th is to just update your resume (despite the fact that you are already employed) to check your grow th or measure your progress. To your ut ter and uneasy disgust, you would find there is nothing much to add or change in your resume excepting your age. Because rest all things remain the same - your name, your education, your skill-set, and your work profile or experience.
Bernard Shaw
NOVEMBER 2009
salary just because one is a nurse for so many years along side the doctor! Our coming out of our college does not mean the end of our reading but the beginning of our reading. Hardly 7 per cent of the population does read a book a year. How does one expect to strengthen or deepen one's knowledge without doing any thing about it? We are not talking about the absolutely illiterate but the literate ones. Especially the professionals ought to be doubling up their reading skills in order to stay atop. I always wonder at the medical professionals as to how much they do or how much they do not update their knowledge. You look at the British medical journal Lancet which is a weekly and a single issue runs into any thing bet ween 1300 to 1400 pages. How many of them are reading it? In fact, there is hardly any dif ference bet ween an illiterate and a literate who does not read. Mens sana in corpore sano! A sound mind in a sound body is a sound advice. Follow a good regimen and keep your physique fighting fit. When Bernard Shaw was asked by the press at the Nobel Prize ceremony when he won the prestigious award for Literature (1925) how old he was , he said: ‘I am just seventy, not even my middle age!’ That is the zeal for life and living! Eat food as medicine to avoid eating medicine as food, ‘Do not drink in order to rela x; when you are rela xed, have a drink!’ and advice on the quantum of food ‘Minimum required to appease your hunger is the ma ximum you should take!’ are some of the simple and ef fective guideposts for a good health. Af ter their forties, most of the men suf fer in life mainly Carl Jung Jim Rohn due to the absence of Our economic grow th is God in their life observed directly related to our career C.G.Jung. Sri Ramakrishna was grow th or accrual of skill-set. One explaining the concept of godcannot continue to remain a nurse power in this small parable: ‘A small and expect to make a doctor's child goes to the village fair along
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Mahatma Gandhi
with her parents. In the hustle and bustle of the crowd and the various distractions and diversions available there, the child tends to get drif ted away. The child can be probably lost as well in the melee. But in the case of the child that is clinging on to her father by holding his finger, it would not happen. The little child can still be enjoying Sri Ramakrishna
everything, the merry-go-round, the colour ful balloons, and the mouth-watering candies etc but without losing her way in the crowd because she is holding to her father’ The father-figure is God whichever religion you belong to or whichever form you look upon Him. Always remember the saying that we are not human beings having spiritual experience on this earth but spiritual beings having human experience on this earth. Be always joyous and serene! And let Gandhi’s succinct advice be our guideline: ‘Be the change you want!’ It is never too late to change or become the change you want. As Jim Rohn said, we cannot change our destination overnight but all the same we can change our direction overnight. Change your direction right now and here!
ASIAN TRAVELLER
festival
Maha Kumbh Mela
The Road to Sanctity K
umbh Mela or Purna Kumbh Mela is one of the most sacred pilgrimages for Hindus, which takes place each once in twelve years in four dif ferent locations in India. The melas are held in Haridwar in Uttarakhand, Prayag in Allahabad, Ujjain in Madhya Pradesh and Nasik in Maharashtra. The Ardh Kumbh Mela is celebrated every six years at Haridwar and Allahabad. The Maha
enters the plains from Himalayan Mountains. According to the Hindu beliefs Ganges, the sacred river cures people from all their sins and evils and gives salvation. The time of Kumbha is exceptional for the purpose. Kumbh literally means pot and mela means fair. It is also the biggest religious gathering of people. The mela is very much associated with the sacred Hindu mythologies and is believed to be in existence before recorded history. The first writ ten evidence of Kumbha Mela be found in the accounts of Huan Tsang, the Chinese traveller who visited India in 629 -645 AD. According to Indian astrology, it is celebrated when the planet of Brihaspati (Jupiter) moves into Kumbha, the zodiac sign of Aquarius and the Sun enters Aries. The exact day of the mela are calculated in advance with the Kumbh Mela or the Great Kumbh positions of Sun, Moon, and Mela happens af ter every 12 Purna Jupiter. Kumbh Melas (once in 144 years). It is also believed that at the The last Maha Kumbh Mela was at time of Kumbh Yog, the water of Prayag, Allahabad in 2001 which Ganga is charged with positive was at tended by around 60 million healing ef fects by enhanced people. More than 70 million Hindu electromagnetic radiations of the pilgrims took part in the Ardh Sun, Moon and the Jupiter. Kumbh Mela at Prayag, Allahabad According to the Hindu January 15, 2007 which was the mythology the event enlivens the biggest gathering of people world legend of palazhi over. mathanam(Churning of the sea of The nex t Purna Kumbh Mela milk). The gods (Devas) and the will be held at Haridwar, demons (Asuras) who were at war Uttarakhand in March-April, 2010. It agree to be a part of the churning. is in Haridwar where River Ganges Among the dif ferent materials that
NOVEMBER 2009
turned up came the Kumbh with Amrita (the nectar of immortality). To get it away from the demons four of the Gods fled with it. Enraged by this, the demons chased the four gods round the earth and the chase lasted for 12 days and nights. During this chase, drops of Amrita from the Kalasha fell at Haridwar, Prayag, Ujjain and Nasik. Saints, priests, and yogis from all corners of India, gathers to participate in Kumbh Mela. The saints found at that place illustrate the vibrant spirituality of the land and its people. The Naga Sadhus with long mat ted hairs doesn't wear any cloths and are smeared in ash. They are not at all af fected by the
ex treme climates. The Urdhwavahurs puts their body through severe austerities,
while the Parivajakas, who have taken a vow of silence and go about tinkling little bells to get people out of their way. The Shirshasins stands on their heads and meditate for hours. The Kalpvasis spends the month of Kumbh on the banks of Ganga meditating, per forming rituals and bathing thrice a day.
Mela Info IMPORTANT DATES For the Kumbh Mela in 2010, the most important day is April 14 - on which Mesha Sankranti - Shahi Snan takes place. Details of the Mela are available at w w w.kumbh2010haridwar.gov.in HOW TO REACH Haridwar is well connected to the major cities, it lies on the National Highway no. 58 and road net work is good. There are regular buses from Delhi in every 30 minutes. Roadways enquiry Tel: 01334-227037 Haridwar is also well connected to the major cities of India with regular and express trains. Railway station enquiry telephone no. 131 Jollygrant at Dehradhun is the nearest airport i.e. 35 kms from Haridwar. It is well connected to the major cities like Delhi etc. Regular flights are available by Indian Airlines and Jet Airways.
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profile
Crafting Relationships with Gold
W
hen K. Bhima Bhattar founded the first Bhima Jewellery at Alappuzha, it was an innovative concept. 84 years later, Kerala's first jewellery show room is still focused on the
Suhas M S, Managing Partner Bhima Jewellery
principle of selling pure gold and 'craf ting relationships with it'. Today Bhima has outlets in many cities and towns of Kerala, Tamil Nadu
ASIAN TRAVELLER
and Karnataka including India's largest jewellery showroom in Thiruvanathapuram. The five floors 25,000 sq.f t showroom was formally opened in August this year. The new showrooms opened in the recent times include Bangalore. "It is the fourth one in the city and we will be shortly opening one in Coimbatore", said Suhas M S, Managing Partner, Bhima Jewellery. "We also plan another showroom in Pat tom, in Thiruvananthapuram, Adoor and Palakkad", he added. Bhima has been exporting its jewellery to the USA, Europe and the Middle East. With close monitoring of the changing trends in the jewellery market, Bhima has produced a wide variety of modern and trendy designs, which are sourced from around the country. Bhima retails 22 carat handmade jewellery and wholesale orders for other caratage are also
accepted. They also manufacture jewellery in 18 ct. and 21 ct. The designs range from the traditional Travancore jewellery to the ultra modern Calcut ta jewellery. Light weight Coimbatore jewellery, traditional jewellery from Rajkot, Rajasthan and Delhi, studded items from Karwar and Nellore and exquisite diamond studded jewellery are also amongst the range. The tryst with pure gold which started in 1925 continues. "Our quality policy does not end with pure gold alone - it just begins there. And ex tends to bringing outstanding world-class designs and the best jewellery shopping experience to our customers in India", says Suhas. "We concentrate on precious stones, white gold, and light weight jewels for the visiting foreigners as they buy this sort as souvenirs," he adds. "Although some domestic visitors buy heav y jewels, most of them go
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for lightweight ones. Some special discounts are provided for them. There are many visitors who come to buy gold from the near by resorts. So we are also planning to start a boutique jewellery at Kovalam". Bhima has a number of firsts to its credits besides being Kerala's first jewellery. They are also the first to start gold retailing, hallmarking and bar-coding. They are also pioneers in using models in jewellery advertisements. The total turn over of the group is above 5000 crore.
NOVEMBER 2009
vibrant gujarat
Rann Utsav
Colours of Desert
D
eserts are not just vast expanse of sand. They have a charm of their own. Remember what the Little Prince says (in Antoine de Saint Exupry's eponymous novel for children) "What makes the desert beautiful," said the little prince, "is that somewhere it hides a well." Rann Utsav is a celebration of the desert. One can visit the desert in the moonlight, travel across open desert plains in a camel cart during the sunset, and watch a full moonlit folk concert on the shimmering white desert landscape. All these are now possible in Gujarat thanks to Rann Utsav. Conceptualised by Chief Minister, Narendra Modi, who realised the potential of promoting the moonlit, white desert landscape of Gujarat, the event offers the opportunity to visit a stretch of the Great Rann of Kutch-the expanse of salt-encrusted white desert that lies along the India-Pakistan border. Accommodations are arranged in a tented village created in the centre of the handicraft-producing region. Festival consists of three to four days of cultural extravaganza organized at different locations within Kutch in Gujarat. The fair is like a mirror to the traditional art forms and culture of India. Kutch is the most ecologically and ethnically diverse areas in the state of Gujarat. The people and geography of Kutch can be described by the hospitality, warmth and diversity of culture and communities found here.The spirit of Kutch people comes alive in this Festive environment of Kutch Rann Utsav. There is a perfect blend of enthusiasm, hospitality and spirit of celebration that glorifies the magnanimous aura of Rann Utsav.
NOVEMBER 2009
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ASIAN TRAVELLER
vibrant gujarat experience in the festival is the presentation of different art forms, dances and music during the shade of full moon and in an aura of
The three days of Utsav are packed with cultural Dances, Music, Craftsmanship, Carnival processions, Pageantry and in all an encapsulation of the true spirit and zeal of the inhabitants out here Kutch is the most ecologically and ethnically diverse areas in the state of Gujarat. The people and geography of Kutch can be
encapsulation of the true spirit and zeal of the inhabitants out here The Rann Kutch Utsav held during the full moon time in winters every year is an unparalleled showcase of the ethnic widely different yet hugely diffused spectrum of Indian traditional art forms. People from far and near gather during the festivities
described by the hospitality, warmth and diversity of culture and communities found here.The spirit of Kutch people comes alive in this Festive environment of Kutch Rann Utsav. There is a perfect blend of enthusiasm, hospitality and spirit of celebration that glorifies the magnanimous aura of Rann Utsav. The three days of Utsav are packed with cultural Dances, Music, Craftsmanship, Carnival processions, Pageantry and in all an
of Rann Utsav to celebrate and salute the spirit and warmth that people of Kutch have inherited and protected. There are numerous cultural activities organized during Rann Utsav that engage all visitors. Semi parched Grasslands of the Banni hosts the most magnificent display of vernacular architecture as the exhibition platform for the varied range of arts and crafts of the region. The most enchanting
ASIAN TRAVELLER
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chilling winters. Many tourists from outside the state of Gujarat enjoy various tour packages that involve sightseeing of the Kutch and adjoining areas during the fair. The Rann Utsav is held every year in December. The fair is generally organized on the full moon night of the month. In 2009 the fair will be observed from December 1 to 3.
How to Reach By Air Take a flight to Bhuj, the administrative city of Kutch. There are a number of flights connecting Bhuj with the other major cities of India. There are also daily flights to important cities like Mumbai. By Train Board the Kutch Express from Mumbai, via Ahmedabad and up to Gandhinagar. From there, you can reach your destination by road. By Road To explore Kutch at its best, it is the beat to travel by road. The wild and raw beauty of the region is simply amazing. There are a number of buses available from Ahmedabad to this place. It is connected to major cities in the state via state buses and ta xis.
NOVEMBER 2009
tamil nadu traveller
Margazhi
The Month of Festivals, Dance and Music
the drawing of kolams in grew to a big event attracting front of houses each day. many artists and performers. argazhi is a sacred Held in Chennai, Now the festival falls on month for the Margazhi Festival of Dance mid-December to midpeople of Tamil and Music is one of the January every year. More Nadu. For them it is the most famous cultural than 2000 artists take part in month of devotion and extravaganzas of the state. It the festivals which features music. According to the is a celebration of classical over 300 concerts and dance Hindu mythology the Carnatic Music and dance of performances throughout importance of the month South India. It came into the month. was announced by Lord existence in the year 1927 The vocal, instrumental as Krishna himself. According with the aim of celebrating well as dance performances to the Bhagavad Gita he says the anniversary of Madras are held at various venues as Maasanam Music Academy every there is no fixed venue of Margasheershoham which December. Later various the festival in Chennai. It is means among the twelve sabhas or organizations mainly held at different months, I am Margazhi. adopted this festival and it auditoriums, temples and Rendering of Tiruppavai and Tiruvembavai, religious discourses and music festivals are the major highlights during the period. This year Margazhi month begins on December 16 and ends on January 14, 2010. The Tamilians renowned for their vibrant culture and performing arts is always on the forefront in promoting them. They consider the Indian classical music (Carnatic) to be a part of Come Marghazhi and mood changes in Chennai. It is the their spiritual beliefs and worship. Tiruppavai consists month of festivals and the atmosphere reverberates with of 30 verses and a verse is religious fervour and sanctity. It is also the month of dance chanted on each day of and music which will be held all over the city, which Margazhi. Another main attracts people from different parts of the country. attraction of the period is
Dr. S BHAKTHAVATCHALAM
M
ASIAN TRAVELLER
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heritage bungalows. Although the event is intended to promote the classical music as well as the classical dances of the state, songs in various south Indian languages like Tamil, Telugu and Kannada is also performed here. The performances at the Dance and Music Festival of Chennai include both vocal and instrumental music, along with solo and group dance. Artists of all levels perform at the festival and it is also a rare platform where upcoming artists get a chance to perform along with well-established artists. The instruments commonly used are flute, 'Veena' (a large string instrument) 'Goottuvadyam' (similar to Veena but without frets), 'Nagaswaram' (pipe), 'Thavil' (percussion instrument), 'Mridangam' (drum), and even 'Ghatam' (a mud pot). Along with the performers, the festival also attracts a vast number of art lovers and enthusiasts to the place. Even Indian artists and scholars who have migrated to foreign countries come back to Chennai every year to attend this festival. NOVEMBER 2009
kerala traveller
Third Edition of GKSF
Set to Become A Grand Affair Grand Kerala Shopping Festival is envisaged as forty-five day annual event, every year. GKSF is being organized to accelerate economic growth of the State through trade, commerce and tourism led strategy and to convert Kerala to an International Shopping Destination by making use of Tourism Brand Image. Through this shopping festival, the Kerala Government intends to transform the State into a hub for international shopping experience. In the process, the brand image of Kerala Tourism would go a long way to help upgrade the infrastructure of traditional marketing centres in Kerala.
T
he third edition of the Grand Kerala Shopping Festival (GKSF), which is to commence this December would provide buyers with increased opportunities to win attractive prizes. The prize distribution structure has been restructured and according to the festival authorities, K N Sathish, IAS Director , GKSF the mega prize this time would go to six persons, instead of one, which was the case in the previous two editions of the GKSF. This year, the mega prize is worth one kilogram of gold and the second prize winner would get half a kilogram of gold. This time, the GKSF would be conducted in the State by dividing it into three zones viz. south, north and central zones. Lucky dips would be conducted in a manner that would enable prize distribution in all districts. Gold prizes will be distributed at the competitions that will be held at the zone-level every week. Weekly contests would have gold worth 10
sovereigns each as first prize going to 18 contestants and the second prize of 5 sovereigns each would go to another 18 contestants. Third prize winners numbering 300 would get one sovereign each. Live scratch and win prizes are also part of the festival attraction. Since GKSF coincides with the peak tourist season in Kerala, besides serving as a shopping destination, the event would also enable tourists to get acquainted with many of the
and other interesting aspects. The many attractions of GKSF from a shoppers point of view is immense and more importantly the festival is held through out Kerala by participating almost all kinds of merchant establishments. As far as publicity is concerned, compared to the previous two editions of GKSF, this time, the shopping festival got wide publicity and this would in turn help to prompt potential travellers to Kerala to make their visits to coincide with that of the
traditionally manufactured products of Kerala. The organizers of GKSF have made arrangements for tourists to visit production centres and understand the nuances of product making
shopping festival period. GKSF is expected to attract more visitors this time around, which would further increase the sales potential of products available during GKSF.
Stark Launches Tourism Intelligence Portal
S
tark Tourism Forum, part of The Stark Group, has launched one of the world's most comprehensive tourism intelligence portal, with a special focus on India. The portal w ww.starktourism.com is the first of its kind and brings onto one single plat form news, views, knowledge and intelligence connected with global tourism. According to T K Harshan,
NOVEMBER 2009
Chairman of The Stark Group "Stark has amassed an incredible wealth of intelligence on the worldwide tourism industry, across diverse sectors from aviation to hospitality to destinations. This information was earlier made available to Stark's clients who were linked to the group company, Stark Communication's intranet. This intelligence is now being
opened up to a broader audience, in a free-to-use format. The beta has been open for the past couple of months and the response has been amazing not just from the tourism sector, but from a wider cross-section including academicians and researchers" This online resource lets sharing and receiving of credible and in-depth information on the
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ever changing tourism industry. The site also allows users to subscribe to Stark Tourism T K Harshan, Chairman Notes a The Stark Group monthly enewslet ter released by Stark Tourism Forum.
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Incredible India Campaign Bags World Travel Award
TCEB Announces New Chairman, President
T
hailand Convention & dence. This initiative will also press Exhibition Bureau has for policy and regulatory improveannounced the appointment ments to help drive industry of t wo new top executives- Anusak grow th and enhance convenience Inthraphuvasak as Chairman of the Board and Akapol Sorasuchart as President of TCEB. Announcing the appointment TCEB shared its new organizational vision and its 7year strategic Anusak Inthraphuvasak, Chairman of the Board of the Thailand Convention & Exhibition Bureau and Akapol Sorasuchart, President plan to build of Thailand Convention and exhibition Bureau competitiveness through the "Thai Team" initiative, a for group MICE visitors to Thailand. collaborative public-private These ef forts are expected to lead partnership. The ef fort is expected to a 25 per cent grow th in the to generate practical and long-term number of MICE visitors to Thaibenefits and to increase confiland in 2010.
T
he Incredible India campaign has received the World Travel Award for the best destination marketing campaign.Tourism Minister Kumari Selja received the award at a glittering event organized in London on November 9.
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NOVEMBER 2009
Experience 8 - 10 Years (Cruise Lines / 4 or 5 Star Hotels / First Class Fine Dining) Please send CV with [ Job Code - ATA/Nov09-104 ] asiantraveller.ascent@gmail.com
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NOVEMBER 2009 The Luxury Travel Fair, London, England
November 5 - 8
World Heritage Travel Expo, Macau, China
November 12 - 14
Hoteltech & Baketech Show-Hyderabad, India
November 13 - 15
CITM-China Int'l Travel Mart, Shanghai, China
November 19 - 22
International FoodService India, Mumbai, India
November 25 - 27
World Luxury Hotel Awards, Bangkok
November 27
The National Food & Hospitality Show, Gujarat, India November 27- 29 India International Travel Mart, Pune, India
November 28 - 30
DECEMBER 2009 IITM, Hyderabad, India
December 4 - 6
HITEX Leisure Expo-2009, Hyderabad, India
December 11- 13
JANUARY 2010 Hoteltech & Baketech Show, Kochi, India
January 6-10
Mumbai International Tourism Expo, Mumbai, India
January 7- 9
Travel & Tourism Fair, Chennai, India
January 8 - 10
Travel & Tourism Fair, Bangalore, India
January 15 - 17
Hospitality World 2010, Mumbai, India
January 21 - 23
ASEAN Tourism Forum (ATF), Brunei
January 21 - 28
ASIAN TRAVELLER
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NOVEMBER 2009
variety
Rajinder Rai Elected TAAI President
1. 2. 3. 4.
What is the literal meaning of the word ‘Mafia’? Whose nickname is ‘Oracle of Omaha’? Who composed the Nokia Tune? Three countries enjoy the status of being No 1 in terms of literacy. Which are the ones? 5. Which airline owned the Hotel Le Meridian in the beginning? 6. Which airline's in-flight magazine is Swasdee? 7. What is the dif ference between a centipede and a millipede?
The 58th Annual General Meeting of Travel Agents' Association of India held in Mumbai recently has elected the new office-bearers and managing committee for 2009 - 2010. Seen are Rajinder Rai (President), Jagdeep S Rikhy (Vice President), R Sunil Kumar (Hon. Secretary General) and M Iqbal Mulla (Hon. Treasurer).
SKHF Members Visit Bangkok
8.
Pringles, the chips are named af ter the Pringle Avenue in which city? 9. Other than the Nobel Prize for Literature, Bernard Shaw had won an Oscar Award too. What was that for? 10. Taiwan's former name was Formosa. What does the name mean?
Compiled by DEEKAY
Send in your answers to info@mediastepsindia.com with TYKC26 in the the subject line. Answers should reach us before the 30th of this month.
South Kerala Hoteliers’ Federation (SKHF) Members recently visited Bangkok, Thailand and held the Annual Meeting there.
Answers to TYKC 25 1. Berne (meaning ‘bear’ in German), capital of Switzerland, 2. Lit tle River ( It. ‘fiume’ = river), 3. Vauxhall, 4. Shakespeare in his ‘Merchant of Venice’, 5. Bande Dessinee ( Fr. ‘strip drawn’ ), 6. 92 ( India is 91), 7. Paddy field, 8. Diabetes, 9. The first President, George Washington, 10. Germany ( ‘Schwarzwald’ - German for ‘black forest’)
TYKC 25 - WINNER
Dr Piyasvasti Amranand has been appointed as President of Thai Airways International. Amranand joined Thai af ter having served most recently as chairman of the advisory panel to Kasikornbank Bank's CEO.
Surendra Mohan Noida, UP
One all-correct entry will get Free Stay at Le-Meridien, Kochi
[ 2 nights and 3 days for two ]*
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NOVEMBER 2009
Saurabh Karnik has been appointed Manager Passenger Sales for North India, Singapore Airlines.
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Michael Burke is the new General Manager of Virgin Atlantic in India.
Yoosuf Koya K. has joined The Senate Hotel, Kochi in Kerala, INDIA as General Manager.
ASIAN TRAVELLER
NOVEMBER 2009
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ASIAN TRAVELLER