in this issue VOL. 4
5
NO. 11
AUGUST 2011
ITB Asia all set for mega programme
ITB Asia Singapore announced the largest conference programme that is lined-up for this year’s show with the addition of two new conference partners – TTG Asia and the Singapore Tourism Board.
6
UNWTO and China open third observatory for sustainable tourism development
UNWTO and China have opened a third Sustainable Tourism Observatory named Zhangjiajie to monitor the environmental and socio-economic impacts of tourism.
8
P 14
P 18
P 21
P 22
Oman Air to connect India with Moscow and Zurich
Oman Air is all set to start its operations from India to Moscow and Zurich from october 2011. Oman Air will operate four flights a week to both destinations with a stopover in Muscat, and will use Airbus A330 aircraft.
6
Dubai ranks among top destinations
7
DTCM Certification course to create Dubai experts across India
7
India, Bhutan’s leading source market
8
RAK Airways eyes Kerala market
Woman of the Month
11 Khiri Travel to Open in Myanmar 24 1Malaysia Helicopter Tour 2011 takes off
27 Tourism Education Fair attracts students
IRENE
12
As I Travel
P 10
29 Karnataka Tourism to host Hot-air Ballooning Festival ASIAN TRAVELLER
AUGUST 2011
Cover Photo Courtesy: Tourism Authority of Thailand
3
EDITOR’S NOTE
T
he looming debt crisis in US following the global financial meltdown could definitely have an impact on the tourism industry in the west, but the magnitude of that could be curtailed through timely intervention of the tourism industry and the government. Tourism experts have indicated that a weaker dollar arising from the US credit rate depreciation could result in less Americans traveling abroad. The anxiety over the debt crisis and falling markets have a dent on tourism industry in Canada and other European countries, for it has become more expensive for American tourists to visit Canada, France or Italy. Even in UK, the tourist inflows from US have come down sharply from 4.1 million visits in 2000 to 2.7 million Americans last year. However, Ireland has tried to keep its corporate taxes low prioritizing various initiatives to encourage visitors. Despite many hitches, tourism industry in India according to the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) could contribute Rs 8.5 lakh crores to the GDP by 2020. In this context, the World Tourism Day 2011 is set to be celebrated on September 27 on the theme 'Tourism - Linking Cultures' by the UNWTO. It plans to highlight the role of tourism in bringing the cultures of the world together to promote global understanding through travel. In his official message for the World Tourism Day 2011, the United Nations Secretary-General, Ban Ki-moon, has aptly recognized tourism's contribution to "global solidarity", particularly in the face of current economic challenges and stresses that "tourism has the ability to generate socio-economic opportunities, and it helps reduce the gap between rich and poor, which is more important than ever". Recognizing the significant role of tourism and its potential to contribute to economic and social development and its emergence as a vital force for the promotion of international understanding, peace and prosperity, hopefully this year's unique interaction aims at furthering the understanding of promoting and preserving the cultures of the world.
G. BIJU KRISHNAN Editor & Publisher editor@mediastepsindia.com +91 9447555222 4
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ASIAN TRAVELLER
AUGUST 2011
ITB ASIA
ITB Asia all set for mega programme
I
TB Asia Singapore an nounced the largest conference programme that is lined-up for this year’s show with the addition of two new conference partners – TTG Asia and the Singapore Tourism Board. The TTG Travel Agent Conference on 21 October, the region’s first travel agent conference to be organised by TTG Asia Media, promises to deliver practical know-how and tangible learning points that travel agents can apply to their businesses to elevate success. The conference covers a wide range of topics and case studies of super agents and tips for success in customised travel and online businesses. Entry is free for ITB Asia delegates and TTG Asia subscribers. Held annually, the threeday B2B trade involves a series of conferences, seminars and workshops from 19-21 October in Suntec Singapore. The delegates are waiting with bated breath to attend the two new events; the inaugural TTG Travel Agent
ASIAN TRAVELLER
Conference and the Asia for Asia Conference, as well as the second installment of the successful ITB Asia Association Day. Nino Gruettke, Executive Director of ITB Asia said, “With close to 800 exhibiting companies from 60 countries from all aspects of the Asian travel industry participating in the show, ITB Asia sits on the pulse of the regional travel, tourism and hospitality industries”. The fifth Asia for Asia Conference, organised by the Singapore Tourism Board in conjunction with The Asian Association of Convention and Visitor Bureaus (AACVB), will be held in Singapore for the very first time this year at ITB Asia. Themed ‘Asia Rising: The Future of Meetings’, this year’s Asia for Asia Conference will explore the macro trends of the Asian travel industry, offering valuable insights and learning’s from the experts, innovators, leaders and trendsetters of the meetings industry. Renowned Association
AUGUST 2011
speakers will helm in-depth panel discussions on topics relating to association management and the challenges in holding association meetings in Asia Association Day The seventh Web In Travel (WIT) to be held in association
visitors and exhibitors. ITB Asia is a unique international platform that unites the travel and tourism industry to exchange valuable insights and business leads; attracting 6,605 attendees and 720 exhibitors from over 60
with ITB Asia will once again see the gathering of leaders in the travel distribution, marketing and technology industry. The intense two-day WIT conference centered around the theme ‘Find Your Groove’ (18-19 October) will be preceded by ‘WITovation Bootcamp - Entrepreneurship & Innovation’ (17 October) and followed by four ‘ITB Asia Clinics’ (20-21 October). Focusing on industry howtos with tips from experts such as TripAdvisor and RateTiger, ‘ITB Asia Clinics’ is free for all ITB Asia 2011
countries. ITB Asia is also a partner event of TravelRave, a mega travel and tourism festival week organised by the Singapore Tourism Board to be held in Singapore in October2011. TravelRave showcases world class trade events that provide a broad platform for industry leaders, experts and professionals across the entire travel ecosystem to develop business opportunities, share insights and best practices, showcase industry innovations and celebrate tourism achievements.
5
OVER VIEW
UNWTO and China open third obser vator y for sustainable tourism development
U
NWTO and China have opened a third Sustainable Tourism Observatory named Zhangjiajie to monitor the environmental and socioeconomic impacts of tourism. The Observatory, located at the entrance to the Zhangjiajie National Park which is China’s first national park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site attracts a lot of tourists on account of its natural beauty and generates economic wealth, jobs and development opportunities for the local residents. Zhangjiajie receives up to 40,000 tourists a day during its high season. The Zhangjiajie Observatory, located in Hunan Province, is part of a network of observatories assisting policy
makers to ensure sustainable tourism growth. The observatory will gather and report data on the environmental, social and economic impacts of tourism in the area based on UNWTO sustainable tourism indictors. It is part of the Global
Observatory on Sustainable Tourism (GOST) initiative, established by UNWTO to support sustainable tourism policies. “Tourism authorities in Zhangjiajie are well aware of the importance of tourism to the local economy, but more
importantly, of the need to manage this growth sustainably,” said UNWTO Secretary-General, Taleb Rifai. “The Observatory represents a vital tool for doing so, providing tourism organizations with the information they need to move forward
sustainably”. The two other observatories currently in operation are located in Yangshuo and Huangshan, and are, alongside Zhangjiajie Observatory, managed by the Monitoring Centre based in Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.
Dubai ranks among top destinations D
ubai ranks among the top ten tourists destinations worldwide and the emirate is expected to attract about eight million international tourists in 2011. Their spending is estimated to be around $7.8 billion, according to a new research released by MasterCard. Dubai features prominently on the Index, coming in ninth in terms of numbers of inbound international visitors and outstripping cities such as New York, Amsterdam, Kuala Lampur and Shanghai. The Index ranks 132 cities in terms of the number of their total international visitor arrivals and the cross-border spending by
6
these same visitors in the destination cities, and gives visitor and passenger growth forecasts for 2011. With 7.9 million international visitors expected in 2011, Dubai is the ninth most highly ranked destination city in the world. This represents a growth rate of 17.3 per cent when compared to 2010, a marked increase from the visitor growth of 13.5 per cent that the city experienced over 2009. Dubai also ranks eighteenth in the world in terms of the volume of international visitor spend with $7.8 billion anticipated in 2011, up from $6.3 billion in 2010 and $5.2 billion in 2009.
ASIAN TRAVELLER
AUGUST 2011
MIDDLE EAST
DTCM Certification course to create Dubai experts across India
T
he Department of Tourism and Com merce Marketing (DTCM) India, launches the Online Travel Training Programme titled – ‘Dubai Expert’ to enhancing the knowledge and expertise of the travel trade partners enabling them to be better equipped to promote and sell Dubai as a destination. ‘Dubai Expert’ is a DTCM
Head office driven program but controlled locally by each representative office. It has three distinct courses – ‘Know Dubai ’, ‘Sell Dubai’ and ‘Add Dubai’ with several learning modules within each course. At the end of each module there are simple quizzes designed to provide a sequential learning curve to the travel partner with each module/course becoming
Sanjay Shah, GM – Sales, Dubai Visa and Marhaba Services, Jeetendra Sawhney, VP – Dubai Visa Processing Centre (Emirates), Carl Vaz, Director - India Representative Office, Dubai Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing, Anurag Arora, Business Head – C&K Marhaba Dubai Visa, Nadeem Ulde, Business Development Manager – India, Emirates, Agnel Pinto, Regional Manager – Western India, Indigo Airlines at the Dubai Expert Launch event
more intensive as one progresses further. The online registration process requires a moderator’s approval to authenticate the applicant and the respective Company. The launch was attended by around 300 members from the travel trade industry. Travel partners such as Emirates Airlines, Indigo Airlines, Dubai Visa Processing Centre – VFS Global, Dubai Visa and Marhaba Services and Cox and Kings Marhaba Dubai Visa supported the event. Carl Vaz, Director, DTCM – India said, “’Dubai Expert’ is a fun, informative yet easy to complete online training programme for travel specialists. It will help to ramp up the knowledge, sales skill and expertise of ‘Brand Ambassadors’ who can promote Dubai which will help attract more visitors to Dubai. It is the intention of the India office to add travel partners such as Dubai hotels, resorts, Dubai/
Carl Vaz, Director - DTCM, speaking at the Dubai Expert Launch event
UAE/Indian airlines (full service and LLC) and global cruise operators to the rewards and booking program. By the end of 2011 we intend to have over 500 active applicants for this free training programme. I would encourage travel professionals to register for this programme and reap the benefits of increased bookings and satisfied customers.”
India, Bhutan’s leading source market
B
hutan records an
Visa for Indians, almost similar
sites on their domains, organize
credit card acceptability;
impressive growth of 61
food habits, and equal currency
FAM-trips, run email campaigns.
upgrading accommodation
per cent in tourist arrivals
exchange rates.
Regular participation at prominent
facilities, guide services, online
travel fairs in India, aggressive
visa processing and working
promotions through various
with airlines to improve connectivity.
While elaborating on India
in the first half of this year compared to the same period last
markets, marketing initiatives
year, Bhutan received close to
Mehrotra said
initiatives in print & electronic
12,000 Indian visitors out of the
that “Bhutan’s
mediums, road shows in Delhi,
overall 41,000 arrivals to the
popularity in
Mumbai, Bangalore, Hyderabad
position as an up-market
destination. This represents 29
the Indian
and Kolkata has been the key tool
destination amongst travelers who
per cent of the total arrivals.
market has
to this enormous success”.
are always on the lookout for
seen a robust
Rajiv Mehrotra, Regional Head
growth over
Marketing- India, Bangladesh, Maldives, while acknowledging the growing prominence of the
Rajiv Mehrotra, the years with Regional Head regular charter
Marketing- India
flights from
India market, indicated that some
Bhutan strives to retain its
The Tourism Council of
niche and experiential tourism,
Bhutan has made tremendous
falling in line with our policy of
strides in diversifying and
“High Value, Low Impact’’ that
developing more products
resonates with our philosophy of
especially in the area of nature,
Gross National Happiness.’’
of the key positives for the country
India, key sign-ups with travel
wellness, spiritual and adventure.
Bhutan is ready to welcome the
are its tranquility and safety, ease
agents and tour operators to
At the same time improving
discerning Indian travelers to
of access, non requirement of
create exclusive packages, micro-
service facilities for tourists like
Bhutan.
ASIAN TRAVELLER
AUGUST 2011
7
AVIATION
Oman Air to connect India with Moscow and Zurich
O
man Air is all set to start its operations from India to Moscow and Zurich from october 2011. Oman Air will operate four flights a week to both destinations with a stopover in Muscat, and will use Airbus A330 aircraft. Currently, Oman Air operates flights from six destinations in India i.e. Chennai, Hyderabad, Bengaluru, Thiruvananthapuram, Kochi and Calicut. “As part of our network expansion plan, we will soon launch flights to Moscow and Zurich in October from India
this year. We also have a few more East-bound routes under consideration. With more aircraft joining the fleet and with increase in capacity/ frequency on the existing routes, our focus will be to
expand our market-base by building visibility and organising marketing activities in all our online markets. Our marketing focus will be targeted at specific
audiences who are conducive to our products, and focus on promoting Oman as a destination,” stated Sunil VA, Country Manager, Oman Air. Oman Air operates 42 flights daily from South India and enjoys a load factor of 85 per cent on its routes. The airline, which was recently conferred the Best Business Class Seat Award at the Skytrax World Airline Awards ceremony in Paris, also operates flights to a number of European destinations like London, Frankfurt, Paris, Munich and Milan from India.
Air India to seek Star Alliance fee refund
N
ational carrier Air India will ask Star Alliance to return the amount paid as membership fees, media reported. Air India is also planning to ask for a hefty compensation for the sum spent in preparing itself for Star’s membership.
The civil aviation ministry will soon start the process of recovering the Euro 10 million (Rs 63 crore approximately) as joining fee they had paid. A decision to suspend Air Star Alliance, a global India’s integration with the group of 27 international alliance was jointly taken by airlines recently announced the 27 member airlines. that it was suspending Air
India’s integration into its network as the carrier had failed to fulfil some norms. AI officials said they were in talks with Star Alliance officials for a meeting to discuss the reasons of suspension as well as to ask them for a refund.
RAK Air ways eyes Kerala market
R
AK Airways of the United
RAK Airways, in less than a
Arab Emirates (UAE) in a
year after its re-launch, have been
bid to expand its flight
destinations,” said Jahameh Mr. Jahmeh said the UAE was
successful in expanding its airline
home to more than two million
services to South India, especially
services to six destinations
Indians of whom nearly 25 per
Kochi and Trivandrum, held
including Calicut, Jeddah, Cairo,
cent lived and worked in Ras Al
said the airline had increased the
discussions with Kerala Chief
Dhaka, Doha and Chittagong.
Khaimah. They had to travel
frequency of flights to Kozhikode
between two hours and four hours
from three a week to five times a week.
Minister Oommen Chandy and
“The objective of our meeting
other ministers in Thiruvan-
with senior Indian officials was to
by road to reach an airport. RAK
anthapuram on August 3.
highlight the continued,
Airways was the only airline
overwhelming demand for RAK
operating to India and Kerala from
Corporate Strategy, Rajendran
Northern Emirate headed by RAK
Airways services to additional
Ras Al Khaimah.
Vellapalth; Country Manager,
Airways CEO Oman Jahameh
destinations in India and to seek
discussed about increasing
their support in approving our
UAE Visa Package – visitor visa
Chairman, Great India Business
services to Kochi,
request to operate to Kochi and
with return airfare – and its low
and Passenger Sales Agent, RAK
Thiruvananthapuram and
Trivandrum in Kerala along with
fares were popular with non-
Airways, E.M. Najeeb was also
Mangalore.
other strategic Indian
resident Keralites, Mr. Jahmeh
present.
The delegation from the
8
Pointing out that the airline’s
Airline Vice-President,
India, Mohmmed Shihas; and
ASIAN TRAVELLER
AUGUST 2011
Q&A With due respects to all women who are working, Irene always wanted to do business and be self employed. According to her one should believe in oneself, have great self esteem, high self respect and things will fall in its place How did you become interested in Travel & Tourism business? Tell us about the beginning of your career. I have worked as an Executive Secretary for 14 long years (I started when I was just 19 as I had huge responsibilities at home to care for… When this vision struck me, I was working as an EA to the country head of a MNC Jeans company (Levi Strauss). Along with the responsibilities of working of an EA, I was also shouldered the responsibility of corporate tie ups with hotels across the
Irene Director, Corporateshelters 10
country for the staff who would travel for business purpose and getting them a decent, low budget place especially for the middle management was always a challenge for me. I got the sense of demand and thought if there is a challenge at one company, imagine the challenges at other companies and i mean to say this challenge would have existed in other likewise companies or companies from various industries like IT, Retail, etc. I had the idea of what a corporate would expect from a vendor in terms of place, hygiene, price, distance from airports, etc. I decided to become a vendor and had the experience of arranging accommodation for my colleagues, so I quit my job and decided to work for myself. I took a small loan from my credit card and initially set up a 3 bedroom apartment and started to share with other Admin Executives, travel desks, etc., got a good response. Today I have more than 50 rooms just in Mumbai and have a strong presence in Delhi as well and have a list of 150 regular clients and 6 dedicated guest houses managed by us for corporate from various industries – software, banking and travel industry. What is your current role in your organization? Although designated as Director, i am working on business development and keen to add more apartments for corporate. What plans - immediate and long term - do you have? Immediate…low cost module and long term – working on offering dedicated
guest houses to companies where we can offer them serviced apartments on contractual basis where we manage everything like services, staff, soft and hard furnishings, utilities, cook/ caretaker, breakfast, etc. As a hospitality industry professional what is your ambition? Where would you like to see yourself ten years from now? I would like to be recognised as a one stop low cost accommodation which has homely ambience for their staff. Who or what has been the greatest influence in your professional life? With due respects to all women who are working i always wanted to do business and be self employed. I can be a bum when I want to work at my own hours. In fact, I work from home and I have converted a small bedroom into office and all I need is a laptop, internet connection and a mobile phone to be in touch with my clients. So, the greatest influence is myself, my dream and I dreamt so hard to work from home to be my own boss and work at my own hours… As woman, what were the challenges you had to face in your professional life? What is your advice to young girls who enter the sector? The Challenges - I am quiet shy when it comes to entertaining male clients and it’s a male’s world. I was just a graduate and didn’t know abc of business but followed my vision and I don’t even have a diploma in any travel or tourism related certification. Your thoughts and yourself can only be the
challenge and if you can’t think good enough about your own self and don’t have confidence in your self nobody will support you but i just chased my dream. My advice is believe in yourself, have great self esteem, high self respect and things will fall in its place. What is the secret of your success? I trusted my vision and followed my dream…secret is simple – I NEVER GAVE UP. What is your proudest moment in your job? When I was nominated as “best woman entrepreneur 2010 by franchise India and my business showed up in the 100 best SMEs in their magazine, the jury had people working in Earnst and Young, Microsoft, Indiamart, etc. About your family. My husband Jude James also quit his garments business and handled the operations part… where I concentrated on marketing. I have two lovely daughters – Anointa and Kathryn and my younger sister Roseline stays with me who doubles up as a mother to my children when I am away at work and she has been a huge support. What are your hobbies? Internet surfing for knowledge, cooking, breeding toy breed dogs, I breed shihtzu and toy poodle. Currently own 6 dogs (5 shihtzus and 1 toy poodle) and playing with my pets is so distressing. I run a pet grooming salon and also run a dog grooming salon (hobby converted into business) and now looking forward to offering franchises in the same, this passion known as hiskersandtails.net.
ASIAN TRAVELLER
AUGUST 2011
NEWSLINE
Khiri Travel to open in Myanmar
T
he Khiri Travel Group is all
the timing was right for the
and Kyaukme in the Northern
set to open its new office in
Myanmar move.
Shan State and the wonderful
Yangon on August, 2011.
Briels, a Dutch national with
added. “Better
southern Shan State, Mrauk U and
facilities and
Khiri Travel, founded in 1994 is
six years’ working experience in
the Rakhine Mountains as well as
infrastructure
currently operating offices in
Myanmar joins Khiri Travel from
the favourites such as Bagan,
in the country
Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam and
Air Mandalay said, “Khiri Myanmar
Mandalay and Inle.
means that it is
Laos. Khiri Travel, through its
will open with many innovative
charitable arm supports several
travel offerings from around the
deliver an innovative and
more places,”
community initiatives across the
fringes of the country”. The Thibaw
responsible take on each place he
said Briels.
four countries where it is currently
Khiri’s approach will be to
easier to visit
Edwin Briels General Manager
A visit to Shwedagon Pagoda in Yangon with Khiri Myanmar
operating. Willem Niemeijer, Khiri Travel
involves a traditional breakfast,
Group CEO and co-founder said,
shopping in the small alleys lively
“It is important to have the right
market around the pagoda, and
people in place, so we can deliver
Buddhist offerings by the clients
the high quality travel experiences
in the pagoda and a native
that our clients are used to in
antique connoisseur gives an
Myanmar, right from the start,” he
insight on colonial residences in
added.
Pyin Oo Lwin. Khiri’s guests
He also added that in Edwin,
themselves can experience the
we have a highly experienced
real Myanmar entering local
Myanmar operator and around the
markets among the local
world people are starting to look
people.
at Myanmar with fresh eyes and
www.khiri.com
ASIAN TRAVELLER
AUGUST 2011
11
COLUMN
COLUMN
I
V DURAIKKANNAN
have been to a club called ‘the
decimal system. The 5th floor, for
Library’ in Colombo, Sri Lanka.
example, is the 500s, the
The Library, Colombo’s most
Sciences with each room as a
exclusive club is a part of the
subcategory or genre, such as
famous Trans Asia resort. A quiet
Mathematics (Room 500.001) or
lounge by day, the Library
Botany (Room 500.004).Other
transforms itself into one of the
room themes include Erotic
most happening night spots in
Literature (Room 800.001), Poetry
Colombo by night. I was given to
(Room 800.003), and Music
understand that the Library was
(Room 700.005). All rooms have a
originally a library put up for
small complement of books and
serving the British officers in the
decorations that accompany the
island those days. That is a
theme, with 6000 books overall
Library turning a hotel by the
throughout the hotel. Because of
night. But have you heard of a
this classification scheme, there
CAN!’ Because the collection was
hotel built and developed as a
developed something legally
all for charity and I was told that
library?
interesting - the hotel owners
the collections were always more
were sued in 2003 by the OCLC
than the fare normally would have
located at 299 Madison Avenue,
(owners of the Dewey decimal
costed. I do not know whether this
41st Street, New York near the New
classification system). OCLC
restaurant still exists but then the
York Public Library, Bryant Park,
reached an agreement with the
idea was so very beautiful.
and Grand Central Terminal. The
hotel enabling the hotel to
Hotel was designed by architect
continue using the Dewey system.
Called ‘Library Hotel’, it is
Stephen B. Jacobs. It is a ten
Asus is one of the popular
Library Hotel is an innovator’s
Hsu, Wayne Hsieh, and MT Liao
story boutique hotel with 60
idea. It is a perfect example for
founded ASUS on 2 April, 1990 in
rooms available. But its most
how grand and beautiful human
Taipei, Taiwan. They were all
interesting feature is the fact that
mind can think.
colleagues, fellow engineers
Those days in Mangalore,
earlier at another computer firm
unique principle: the Dewey
down South of India, there was a
Acer. The name Asus is clipped
Decimal System, meaning the
hotel where unlimited meal was
out of the name Pegasus, the
system that organizes the literary
served for mere ten rupees. One
winged horse of Greek mythology.
genres. For example the fourth
could have as much as one would
The new organization used only
floor is the correspondent for the
want. For ten rupees, it was a
the last four letters of the word in
fourth Dewey category –
steal. But the condition was that
order to give the resulting name a
Language, and each room deals
whoever left behind or wasted any
high position in alphabetical
with a different sub-category , for
rice after asking for it would have
listings when somebody looks for
example Ancient language,
had to pay up another ten rupees.
a PC or laptop on the internet!
Germanic language , etc. is like
So there was an inbuilt frugality
The brand name Asus is a
any other hotel on the inside,
and discipline resulting in zero
beautiful thought!
the floors are organized after a
wastage of
The naming of the two-piece
food. That was
swimsuit ‘bikini’ after an atoll in
again a
the western Pacific is another
beautiful
interesting and creative one
thinking!
likewise. The French inventor
There was
12
computer brands.TH Tung, Ted
Louis Reard (interestingly enough,
another charity
he was an automobile engineer!)
organization
named it after the Bikini Atoll
running a
because the very same year
restaurant in
(1946) he designed the smallest
Coimbatore, the
swimsuit, there was a testing of a
Textile City
nuclear bomb exploding there in
having nice and cozy interiors, the
again in South India which was
that Pacific atoll! And he for sure
only difference being the
once known as the Manchester of
could conceive of how ‘explosive’
presence of books all over the
India. The restaurant had a buffet
the dress was going to be!
place. There are lots of fine
arrangement with no waiters or
bookcases in the rooms, in the
stewards around. You were
invention was so very creative that
hallways, even in the lobby and
supposed to help yourself and
time. Reard declared in the ad
the restaurants. They are very in
kind of bill yourself! The banner
that a two-piece suit was not a
perfect condition and belong
there would say: ‘East as much as
genuine bikini ‘unless it could be
strictly to the category in the
you WANT! Pay as much as you
pulled through a wedding ring’!
Even the ad for the new
ASIAN TRAVELLER
AUGUST 2011
KARNATAKA TRAVELLER
Bidar Fort
Specimen of a glorious past
T
he Bidar Fort of karnataka
retains its medieval charm
magnificent palace was built by
built in 1327.One of the largest
was built in the 15 the
through its royal palaces, mahals,
Ali Shah Barid in the 16th century.
mosques in India, the Solah
century and stands as a
armouries, living quarters, jail,
This marvelous palace is
Khamba mosque presents an
proud testimony of an eventful
mosque, numerous wells, and
past. Constructed out of red rock,
several buildings.
the Bidar Fort had an intricate
The Bidar Fort with its royal
battlement and a baronial
baths and spacious kitchens, also
gateway. A visit to the fort will get
offers large audience hall and
to see the crumbling ruins of the
wide pleasure-pavilions
bastions and gates of yesteryear.
as a silent tribute to the past glory
Bidar Fort, situated in the
standing
of the Bidar Kingdom.
Northern part of Karnataka in
The amazing Rang Mahal of
Bidar district of the northern
the Bidar Fort is another attraction
plateau of Karnataka, was built by
of the fort. The visitor will be
Sultan Alla-Ud-Din Bahman of the
surprised by the intricately carved
Bahmanis Dynasty who shifted his
beautiful wooden pillars and
renowned for the profusion of
imposing picture with its massive
capital from Gulbarga to Bidar in
amazing tiles that are engraved
beautiful wood carvings,
circular columns. Other
1427.
with Persian couplets as well.
fascinating glazed tile mosaics
attractions include the Gagan
and mother-of-pearl decorations
Mahal, the Diwan-E-Am (the public
He built his fort here along
Among its attractions in the
with a number of Islamic
Bidar Fort, Rangin Mahal deserves
which bear the hallmarks of
Audience Hall) where the fabulous
monuments. The fort, now an
special mention for its exquisite
Persian architecture.
turquoise throne once rested, the
archaeological area, stands in the
elegance and amazing carvings.
central location in the Deccan
Used as the royal residence, this
ASIAN TRAVELLER
AUGUST 2011
Another attraction inside the fort is the Solah Khamba Mosque,
Takhat Mahal, the Royal Pavilion, and the Naubat Khana.
13
FOCUS
Netherland’s staggering growth in tourism
T
he number of Indian travellers to Nether lands is on the rise, touching an astounding growth of 13% in the first quarter, 2011. The total number of overnight stay by Indians increased from 20,000 in 2010 to 24,000 in 2011, this staggering increase of 20% in Indian visitor arrivals took place during January to March. The comparative growth is tremendous when evaluated with other European nations and the inbound arrivals to the Netherlands from Belgium and Switzerland stood at 9%, while Russia stood at 30% through the first quarter of 2011 as compared to 2010. Holland’s overall tourism statistics shows a positive trend and Netherlands Boards of Tourism & Convention (NBTC) expects inbound tourism to continue growing in the coming years based on its analyses and computations. The Sharply growing holiday
14
participation is expected to increase particularly among the people of India and China in the coming years. There are no shifts expected in any of the top five origin markets for the Netherlands. In 2020
Germany will still be the most important origin market, with approximately 3.4 million travellers, followed by Great Britain with more than 2.2 million. Belgium, the United States and France will complete the top five with 1.6
million, 1.1 million and 880,000, respectively. As seen in the past years, the emerging markets of Brazil, Russia, India and China will produce the highest growth rates. Netherlands famous tulip garden, windmills and clogs, its excellent cheese and the amazing lifestyle and diverse features continues to attract a large number of tourists from world over. However, the growth in Indian arrivals could be attributed to the effective marketing strategies as adopted by the NBTC, India office. Whether it’s Amsterdam, Rotterdam, The Hague, Delft etc., each city in Holland is a gem and a destination in itself. Tulips, windmills, Gouda cheese, cobblestone streets and glistening canals are just some of the images that this tourist-friendly, multi-faceted country throws up. The country has excellent public transportation, road network, and easy accommodations and above all Holland remains an exotic experience for the most demanding visitor.
ASIAN TRAVELLER
AUGUST 2011
NEWSLINE
Millennium Abu Dhabi unveils Ramadan offers
M
illennium Hotel Abu Dhabi during the Holy Month of Ramadan offers lavish Iftar buffet complete with Ramadan juices for only AED135* per person for adults and AED75 for children between 6 and 12. The Iftar buffet is served from sunset until 22:30 in Citrus Restaurant. Guests can enjoy a shisha with a game of chess or backgammon in the Layali Al Alfeya tent in Marakesh restaurant, open from 20:00 until Suhoor. An Oudh player will entertain with traditional sounds of Arabia, and the a la carte menu offers oriental and authentic Ramadan food. Moine Kandil, General Manager of the Millennium Hotel Abu Dhabi said, “Dur-
ASIAN TRAVELLER
ing the Holy Month of Ramadan we unite in a period of reflection, this is for all of us a time to strengthen family and community bonds. We
value.” Sevilo’s restaurant will be open from 6:00 until midnight, serving breakfast and lunch to non-fasting guests.
day nights will still be seafood nights, and Friday brunch will continue without alcoholic beverages at AED 140 per person.
look forward to welcoming families to our Iftar and Suhoor offerings this Ramadan, and we have introduced special rates for children to make it even better
Breakfast is served from 6:00 – 10:30, Lunch is served 12:00 until 15:30, and Dinner will be served from 19:00 until closing. No alcohol will be served before 20:00. Wednes-
The Lobby Lounge will open after Iftar each night, while the Cristal Champagne Bar opening hours for the month will be 19:30 until 01:30.
AUGUST 2011
15
ALBUM
A glimpse of bo ok release T
he days are not too far when Capt C. P. Krishnan Nair will be regarded as an epitome of success among the youth and a standing testimony to a man's audacity to dream and his power to transform these dreams into reality. Krishnan Nair who needs no introduction among the business fraternity and the tourism sector as a prominent entrepreneur of India set his foot into literary field with the release of his autobiography 'Krishna Leela' at a function under the auspices of Uthradam Tirunal Marthanda Varma and Kerala Chief Minister Oommen Chandy in Thiruvananthapuram. Oommen Chandy released the autobiography by handing over a copy of the book to Shashi Tharoor MP, who in turn, released the electronic version of the book on an iPad.
ALBUM
ASIA PACIFIC
Tourists flocking to the Filipino shores
T
ourism in Philippines has been a top-earner for the country, propping up the country’s reserves. Indian travellers, who have always admired the effusive hospitality of Filipinos, continue to flock to its shores. As evident from the growth figures, Philippines has yet again recorded a remarkable 44.62 per cent in Indian arrivals for JanuaryApril, 2011. This reflects the effort of the Department of Tourism (DOT) to promote tourism and shows the kind of tourist attractions in Philippines. Not only this, Philippines registered a surge of 72 per cent in January and 75 per cent in February 2011 alone in Indian arrivals. India is a big market and everybody wants a share of it which is apparent from the growing presence of national tourism offices, whose numbers have gone up in the last few years. The
Indian market is a significant source of arrival, especially since global tourism group points to the remarkable growth of India’s outbound tourists which are also in the high-end spending bracket. Blessed with an extensive coastline, the Philippines is ringed with unspoiled beaches and first-class resort facilities. Its deep-blue, crystal clear waters offer about 40,000 sq km of coastline of coral reefs teeming with a wide variety of marine life. For this reason, tourists have been exploring this country, taking a peek in the history and culture of Philippines, mirrored by century-old churches, ancient forts and modern museums. Endowed with temperate climate, the Philippines offers a perfect treat. Lying in southeast Asia and surrounded by the Pacific Ocean, the Philippines boasts unsullied beaches, spectacular
Mudpack, Mambukal, Flores De Mayo, Tapusan Festival and Agawan, a visit to Philippines is a must for every globetrotter. Embark on a journey with a bag full of surprises and a trip to Paradisee. Feel the breeze of summer at whitesand beaches deemed as among the world’s finest; be fascinated at the spectacular views. Witness the vast expanse of nature’s splendor under the
attractions like Manila, Cebu, Boracay and Bohol. Apart from the picturesque beauty, Philippines attracts a large number of tourists because of the plethora of its colourful festivals. In Philippines, it seems every island has a different festival every day. With events such as
spell of cool mountain breeze. It is a perfect setting for romance or nature tripping and the country’s mountain villages serve as a perfect hideaway from the lowland’s summer heat. Or just take a dip in the refreshing waters of modern resort facilities. Discover the Philippines.
Photos © George Tapan
sunsets, luxuriant pastoral lands, cool mountain weather, brilliant man-made resorts and dazzling islands. Philippines boasts of some of the best beaches and scuba diving waters in the world, supported by golf and an increasingly impressive interisland tour and transport system. Philippines has always been vying for the Indians to travel for shopping and entertainment. Amongst the main focuses are the major
18
ASIAN TRAVELLER
AUGUST 2011
ASIA PACIFIC
Higantes Festival
Celebrating life
P
hilippines is the land of pan oramic beaches, exotic islands, and white sands etc. It is true that Philippines is also the land of many colourful festivals and celebrations. Celebrated in the honor of Saint Clemente, the patron saint of fishermen, Higantes Festival, popularly known as the Feast of San Clemente, is held on every November 23 in the town of Angono, Rizal. Higantes Festival features a huge street procession. The male devotees carry images of the saint accompanied by pahadores and higantes. This colourful celebration carries along with it 40
different higantes representing each district and attracting local and foreign tourists and these effigies are all made up of paper-mache measuring 10-12 ft in height and 4-5 in diameter. It is delightful to see the devotees dressed in colorful local costumes or fishermen’s clothes, wooden shoes and carrying boat paddles, fish nets, traps, etc. Two week long festival, it forms as a part of the celebration of the Angono Town Fiesta. The event finishes in a fluvial procession in Laguna de Bay amidst revelry that continues until the image is brought back to its sanctuary. The festival takes its name from the oversized paper mache figures that make it a spectacle of hilarity and entertainment of a unique order. In the earlier days, the heads of the Higantes were made of paper-mâché. However, nowadays, some artists have replaced clay with Plaster of Paris and resin. Tougher material like fiberglass is applied to the mold instead of paper and thin strips of aluminum
are used for the body frame for durability purposes. Although, there are still many old school artists carrying the traditional art of paper- mâché. Fun and merry making are also form as part of this religious festival as thousands of revelers splashing water on unsuspecting participants and onlookers. Envisage the weapons used for the water fights; water bottles, squirt guns and even drinking glasses, spraying water on everyone passing by. Apart from the parade of the Higantes, there are also other activities lined up for the occasion like the marching bands, drums, singing and dance contest and a beauty pageant.
Hosting World’s Religions Conference
M
ontréal, acclaimed as the second largest Frenchspeaking city in the world to host the 31st World’s Religions Conference on September 7, 2011 the Second Global Conference on World’s Religions after 9/11, with an objective to promote peace and harmony. This year’s theme is ‘Peace Through Religion’ following the 9/11 incident that has shaken everyone the world over. The international conference will bring together 5,000
ASIAN TRAVELLER
participants from the various religions of the world in an ecumenical spirit to address the issues which the world is facing today. Dalai Lama will address the gathering of various religions of the world at the Palais des Congrès, Montréal, Canada. Iran born Nobel Peace Laureate, Shirin Ebadi and world-famous author, Deepak Chopra are among the eminent speakers scheduled to address the conference. Other renowned speakers include Professor Tariq Ramadan of
AUGUST 2011
Oxford University, Professor Robert Thurman, Professor Gregory Baum, recipient of the Order of Canada and Swami Dayananda Saraswati will also address the august gathering creating a blend of cultures where all religions are equal. Panel discussion on the importance of inter-faith education is to be followed by an unveiling of the latest version of a proposed Universal Declaration of Human Rights by The World’s Religions.
19
TAMIL NADU TRAVELLER
Intricate master piece its the intricate carvings on hard southern granite stones discarding the earlier Chola and Pallava style of subtlety and angaikonda Cholapuram simplicity. The temple is approached Temple, an excellent architec through the eastern entrance from the tural masterpiece is located at road. Thanjavur in Tamil Nadu was built by The entrance called' Mahaduvar' leads Rajendra Chola I in AD 1025. The great to the inner court and as one steps in, the temple Brihadisvara at GangaikondaCholapuram, is next only to great Vimana attracts the visitor's sight and its recessed corners and upward the great Chola monument. movement exhibits a striking contrast to Gangaikondacholapuram means "the the straight-sided pyramidal tower of town of Chola who conquered Ganga". Apart from the magnificent Brihadiswara Thanjavur but with octagon shape of Dravidian architecture. ( Brihadisvara ) temple at It rises to a height of 182 feet (55 m) GangaikondaCholapuram, there are few more interesting places to see around the and is flanked on either side by small temples; the one in the north houses the temple. GangaikondaCholapuram the capital Goddess, fairly well preserved. In the north-east is a shire housing Durga, with city of Cholan empire was erected by a lion figure guarding its steps. Rajendra Chola I, the son and successor Nandi is facing the east of the main of Rajaraja Chola, the great Chola who shrine and in the same direction is the conquered a large area in South India at ruined gopura, The main tower is surthe beginning of the 11th century. rounded by little shrines that truly Gangaikonda Cholapuram was plundered for several times, but the architec- presents the appearance of a great Chakravarti (emperor) surrounded by tural and sculptural wealth remained alive stands as a tribute of architects and chieftains and vassals. The Gangaikondacholapuram Vimana is artisans, who created this spectacular undoubtedly a devalaya chakravarti, an testament. The architecture of this temple exhib- emperor among temples of South India.
Dr. S. Bakthavatchalam
G
20
The four meter high lingam (phallic form) of Lord Shiva at the sanctum sanctorum is renowned for having the biggest Shivalingam in the Southern part of India. The sanctum is encircled with two walls to provide private worship area for the royal family and the entrance of the sanctum is adorned by the beautiful image of Goddess Saraswati. The meticulous accounts of the Cholas are inscribed on the copper plates and temple walls and the exotic structure took approximately nine years to complete. The Nataraja, Coronation of King Rajendra Chozhan by Siva and Parvati, the dancing Ganesha and the most interesting the Ardhanari (the manwoman manifestation of Lord Shiva), one half has masculine characters and the other the more decorative female form, signifying duality of divine energy. The sanctum sanctorum of the temple is a four meter high Lingam. The sanctum is surrounded by two walls, the inner and outer, providing private worship area for the royal family. A well-crafted image of Goddess Saraswati adorns the royal entrance of the sanctum, which indicates the Chalukyan influence. Also the presence of the 'Suryapita' icon, signifying sun worship and the presence of the 'Navagrahas' (nine planets), is said to be influenced by the Chalukyan connection.
ASIAN TRAVELLER
AUGUST 2011
DESTINATION
Distiller y District in Toronto
The ultimate experience in tourism
E
xploring the Distillery District in Toronto through a walk is like going through some experience which will leave you totally stunned and surprised. The fort-like red brick walls of the district offer you an all absorbing treat for your senses. The Distillery District is an internationally famous village with its brick-lined streets and a number of vibrantly restored Victorian industrial buildings making the place Ontario’s enchanting tourist attraction. It is also home to live theatres, galleries, fashion, design and jewellery boutiques, unique cafes and award-winning restaurants. The Distillery district which has been completely closed to vehicular traffic and situated just a few minutes walk from downtown Toronto, is now declared a national historic site. From its establishment in 1832, the Gooderham and Worts Distillery have played an important role in the growth and wealth of the city. It weathered World War I and limped through the 1920s prohibition. In 1990, after 153 years of production, the main business of whiskey and rum brewing closed down and the area resurrected itself as a movie location, and became the second largest filming location outside Hollywood. In December 2001, the city
ASIAN TRAVELLER
launched an incredibly ambitious project – to restore the Distillery and more than 40 buildings; transforming it into a pedestrians-only village entirely dedicated to arts, culture and entertainment. Set amidst fabulous heritage architecture, it is a great place to spend a few hours away from the usual downtown bustle. Here you can either ponder the canvases of the great Quebec masters or the provocative realisations of internationally acclaimed photographers or wander the artist’s studios in search of that one-of-a-kind creation. You’ll find some of Canada’s finest art galleries, art dealers, artists and artisans here, all within a short walk from each other. The Distillery has some of the finest restaurants in the city be it indoors or the sun filled patios. Taste the best artisan cheese, gourmet oils, terrines and more at Taste of Quebec. Care for a mouthwatering meal, pizza or pasta at exceptionally reasonable prices Buy the latest in lifestyle apparel, exquisitely crafted designer jewellery, fabulous footwear, home accessories and more. The goods are unique, stylish and one of a kind; something you cannot find in other shopping malls. When next in Toronto, you must visit The Distillery – the ‘hippest address in town’ always an adventure.
AUGUST 2011
The 13-acre (52,000 sq. m) district comprises more than 40 heritage buildings and 10 streets, and is the largest collection of Victorian era industrial architecture in North America.
21
ASIA PACIFIC
Historical festival symbolising Unit y
T
he Mooncake Festival, also known as the Lantern Festival or Mid-Autumn Festival, is a harvest festival believed to have originated from the ancient ceremony of making a sacrifice to the Moon Goddess for the year’s end harvest. Weeks before the festival, families present gifts of mooncakes to friends and elders to foster better ties with them. The Lantern festival is celebrated on the 8th moon, the 15th day of the Chinese Lunar Calendar, which is on the 12th September 2011 and around the same time of Autumn Equinox. As per the Western calendar, this festival falls in the 2nd week of September and the 2nd week of October and is celebrated
that marks the successful rebellion against the Mongol Rulers dating back to 14th century China. Lanterns were used at night as signals from higher grounds and hilltops. Today, this festival is celebrated with moon cakes and lanterns hanging in houses. Malaysia Tourism Promotion Board popularly known as Tourism Malaysia showcases Malaysia’s top-of-mind tourist destination of unique wonders, attractions and cultures; develop domestic - 1066BC). In the Zhou Dymade from glutinous rice. with family gatherings, tourism and enhance nasty (1066BC -221BC), The lantern parade inprayers, distribution of Malaysia’s share of the market cludes various animal-shaped villagers held ceremonies in mooncakes and lantern for meetings, incentives, preparation for the arrival of parades by children. Apples, lanterns beautifully made of conventions and exhibitions winter and to celebrate the pears, peaches, grapes, pome- coloured cellophane paper (MICE). beauty of the new moon. In granates, melons, oranges and and decorated with coloured In India, Tourism Malaysia the later dynasties, mooncakes glitter. After sunset, candles pomelos are offered to the offices are conveniently were baked and sent to are lit inside these lanterns, Moon Goddess to signify located in cities like Mumbai, which give a memorable sight. relatives as gifts for family harvest and other offerings Delhi and Chennai to promote The Mid-Autumn Festival reunions. Traditionally, include cooked and baked Malaysia as an outstanding thirteen moon cakes were is a traditional festival for items including moon cakes, tourist destination and make stacked into a pyramid to both the Han and minority cooked taro, and water symbolise the thirteen moons the tourism industry a major nationalities. The custom of caltrop, a type of water contributor to the socioworshipping the moon can be of a complete year. chestnut resembling black economic development of the This historical festival is traced back as far as the Xia buffalo horns and of course nation. and Shang Dynasties (2000BC rather than a religious one the ‘Tang Yuen’ which is
22
ASIAN TRAVELLER
AUGUST 2011
PROFILE
Fortune JP Palace
Palatial delight
A
ttuned to the grandeur and
The strategic location of the
glory of the magnificent
hotel makes you well connected to
city of Mysore, keeping up
prime points of importance in the
with the city’s rich tradition of hospitality and heritage, Fortune
city of Mysore. Strategically located opposite
JP Palace is all set to make you
the Government House, the hotel
experience the wonderland of
has good connectivity to all
done in a contemporary style
dining facilities, including Orchid -
Mysore amidst warm hospitality.
nearby tourist destinations
dĂŠcor and come equipped with an
the 24 hour multi-cuisine
The very architectural
including the Mysore Palace
excellent range of guest amenities
restaurant serving buffet meals
magnificence of the hotel reflects
which is just 2 km away from the
required by the modern day
and a well - planned a la carte
the timeless beauty of architecture
hotel with easy access to the
traveler by
menu, The Oriental Pavilion - a
for which Mysore is famous.
railway station and airport which
offering
specialty restaurant serving
are respectively 3 km and 12 km
personal
authentic Oriental cuisine, and
away.
convenience to
Neptune-Bar & Lounge offering an
the esteemed
ideal venue to relax and meet up
guests.
with friends and associates, the
Over the years Mysore has grown into a cosmopolitan city with people from different walks
The hotel serves you with its
of life living together peacefully. It
well appointed 108 guest rooms
is well-connected to all major
and beautifully furnished
cities in India.
including 59 Deluxe Rooms, 33
The Palace JP hotel captures
Fortune Club Rooms, 15 Suites
the spirit of the Mysore city in all
and 1 Room for the differently-
its entirety and professional
abled persons. The interiors of the
manner.
rooms have been aesthetically
ASIAN TRAVELLER
AUGUST 2011
Most of the Rahul Nama General Manager
hotel also has a well equipped
rooms offer a
business centre backed with
soaring view of
efficient secretarial support.
the magnificent Chamundi Hills. From offering an array of
So next time you are in Mysore, experience the warmth of the JP Palace.
23
ASIA PACIFIC
Malaysia a leading eco-tourism haven
M
alaysia, the Mega-
micro-organisms. Ecotourism has
Biologically Diverse
become the fastest growing sector
Country located in
in the tourism industry and is
Southeast Asia offers a wide
expected to grow at an annual
range of natural and cultural
rate of 4.3 per cent until 2017. Malaysia a premier ecotourism
assets that makes ecotourism a highly beneficial, sustainable and
destination is strengthened by the
long-term form of tourism. The
Gunung Mulu National Park
“Going green” phenomenon is
(Sarawak) and Kinabalu Park
permeating in all aspects of life
(Sabah) in UNESCO’s World
including travel and a consistent
Heritage Sites List. Langkawi
growing percentage of travelers
Island, located in the northern
are looking for destinations and
part of Peninsular Malaysia is
activities that offer nature-based
recognized by UNESCO as a
activities with minimum impact to
geopark, a title given to
the earth.
outstanding geological
flowers, and trees living beneath
Malaysia, has adopted the
landscapes in the world.
its lush canopy have yet to be
National Ecotourism Plan (NEP) to
discovered. The Malaysian
provide policies and guidelines for
The country is one of the
The millions of years old
twelve mega-biologically diverse countries in the world that boasts
ancient tropical rainforests of
Government recognizes the
the conscientious development of
more than 15,000 species of
Malaysia are home to an
importance of sustainable tourism
ecotourism to ensure that
flowering plants, 286 species of
incredibly diverse array of flora
and balanced conservation and
travelers from across the world
mammals, 150,000 species of
and fauna covering almost 60 per
development while promoting
enjoy the country’s unique and
invertebrates, and 4,000 species
cent of its landmass. The experts
natural attractions to tourists. As
natural wonders.
of fish, in addition to countless
believe that many animals, plants,
such, the Ministry of Tourism,
www.malaysiajao.com
1Malaysia Helicopter Tour 2011 takes off
T
he Ministry of Tourism
Rahman Marine Park tour gives a
Dayang Bunting Island, and other
& Tours Sdn. Bhd, Elite Luxury
introduces 1Malaysia
bird’s eye view of the marine park,
exciting attractions, while in Kuala
Vacations (M) Sdn. Bhd, Global
Helicopter Tour 2011, in an
comprising of Pulau Gaya, Pulau
Lumpur itself, passengers can be
International Travel & Tours Sdn.
effort to attract more high-yield
Sapi, Pulau Manukan, Pulau
picked up from KLIA or Subang
Bhd, Langkawi Helicopter Xtours,
tourists to Malaysia. It was
Mamutik, Pulau Sulug and as well
Amazing Borneo Tours & Events
launched by YB Dato’ Sri Dr. Ng
provide an aerial perspective of
Sdn. Bhd and Discover Borneo.
Yen Yen, the Minister of Tourism at
Malaysia’s skyscrapers and other
the Skypark Business Aviation
man-made landmarks. The tours
helicopter tour packages at fixed
Centre, Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah
are also available at major tourist
or custom-made itineraries that
Airport, on 26 July 2011.
destinations, namely in Kuala
are competitively priced, and the
The tour takes passenger(s)
Lumpur, Langkawi and Sabah.
over the Crocker Range and the
The visitors during the aerial
majestic Mount Kinabalu, one of
tours in Langkawi can see the
the tallest peaks in South East
views of the UNESCO Global
Asia. Meanwhile, the Tunku Abdul
Geopark, Gunung Machincang,
The tour agencies also offer
Airport in style, to be transported
tourists who go on these
to Genting Highlands through a
helicopter tours can enjoy
scenic aerial journey
detailed commentaries on the
The six travel agents that offer tour packages are Shajasa Travel
attractions and landmarks during the tour.
Uniqueness of Ramadan in Malaysia R amadan in Malaysia gives a unique
especially villages decorated with oil lamps or
experience to see the sights and scenes
colourful electric bulbs to welcome the month
when Muslims in the country take the opportunity to strengthen their faith during this
of Syawal. It is during this period that Malaysians
holy month that extends its uniqueness to
regardless of race or religion look forward to
everyone in multicultural Malaysia, locals and
returning to their hometown or as the locals
visitors alike. The most famous bubur lambuk
call it balik kampung to spend the holidays
is the Masjid Jamek bubur lambuk in
with family and friends, bringing with them the
Kampung Baru, Kuala Lumpur.
greatest message of Ramadan, which is
Ramadan draws to a close, many homes
24
patience and humility.
ASIAN TRAVELLER
AUGUST 2011
GUJARAT TRAVELLER
An imposing and elegant mar vel
A
grand and gorgeous edifice, the Lakshmi Vilas Palace, set in a sprawling
classical style architecture. Lakshmi Vilas Palace is known for its impressive interiors that
700 acres in Vadodara is a major
present opulent designs, marble
popular tourist site among the
mosaic in varied hues and fine
Maharaja Palaces in the cultural
stone, valuable furnishings,
capital of Gujarat. Within the
Italianate courtyards of palms and
palace premises are the Motibaug
water fountains with huge arched
Palace, a Royal Museum and a
entrance-ways. Its ornate Darbar Hall,
Zoo adjoining that. The best exemplar of Indo-
sometimes the venue of music The Motibaug Palace is now
Sarcenic style of architecture with
concerts and other cultural
artifacts of the Royal family was
an eclectic mix of Indian, Islamic,
events, has a Venetian mosaic
constructed for educational
the club house for the club;
and European elements, Lakshmi
floor, Belgium stained glass
purposes. It is said to have been
behind which is a large new
Vilas Palace wasconstructed
windows and walls with intricate
constructed for the Maharaja’s
swimming pool designed by the
between 1878 and 1890 by
Italian mosaic decorations. The
children. One can also come
renowned architect Karan Grover
Maharaja Sayaji Rao Gaekwad III
palace also showcases a rich
across the prominent paintings of
with sauna and gym facilities. The
at an estimated total cost of sixty
collection of old armory and
Raja Ravi Verma in the museum.
present management of the club
lakh rupees. Preceding that,
sculptures of terracotta, marble
Adjoining the Palace is the Zoo,
has used the old British spelling
Gaekwad, the prominent Maratha
and bronze.
inhabited by a species of
Lukshmi Vilas Palace instead of
langoors, crocodiles and
the better known Lakshmi Vilas
peacocks.
Palace.
built the once lavish but now derelict Nazarbaugh Palace, in old
ASIAN TRAVELLER
It is noteworthy that the Museum housing the rare art and
AUGUST 2011
25
NEWS LINE
Legendary Cama Hotel ties up with Keys
C
ama Hotels Limited and
experience to guests visiting
Keys Hotels, the mid-
Ahmadabad for over 50 years. By
market brand of
partnering an upcoming brand like
Berggruen Hotels jointly
Keys Hotels with a National reach
announced the signing of a
and presence and new
management contract between
professional operational styles will
the two companies and the launch
take the grand
of Keys Hotel Cama in
old lady of
Ahmedabad marks the 10th Keys
Ahmedabad to
Hotel in India and the fifth
fresh new
managed hotel signed by
heights. Berggruen
Berggruen Hotels.
Hotels
Keys Hotel Cama, located on the banks of the Sabarmati is just 11 kilometers from the airport and
Sanjay Sethi MD & CEO
Managing Director and
3 kilometers from the railway
CEO, Sanjay Sethi stated that,
station that allows the guest to
“Cama Hotels is Ahmedabad’s
savor the city’s rich history and
first ‘Boutique Luxury Hotel’ and a
cultural heritage, and its proximity
landmark since 1960. It is well-
partnership, we will leverage our
to the very heart of the business
known for its special brand of
strongly integrated domain
and shopping areas.
hospitality that makes it a
knowledge, market reach and
shop delight your senses with a
memorable experience. In
talent pool to create a world-class
choice of Indian, Continental and
President of FHRAI, while
partnership with Cama Hotels
business hotel that will meet all
Mexican cuisine, a variety of
addressing the press at the
Limited, we are truly proud to
requirements of the business and
international snacks and special
launch said, Cama Hotel,
unveil Keys Hotel Cama,
leisure travelers.”
mini-meals. It is well-equipped
Ahmedabad has been dedicated
Ahmedabad marking the 10th
to providing the best hospitality
Keys Hotel in India. Through this
Jehangir R J Cama, Past
Keys Hotel Cama offers 49
dining experience. Silver Leaf, the 24-hour coffee
with corporate facilities to suit
rooms and suites well finished in
every requirement, depending on
light wood and embellished with
the size of the gathering - small or
rich tapestry offering ample
large. In addition, the well-
seating, work and storage space.
equipped Business Centre
The multi-cuisine restaurant ‘La
provides all the infrastructure and
Vista’ is laced with sandstone
facilities required.
fireplace, granite clad buffet-
Keys Hotels, a brand of
counter etc., and offers both on
Berggruen Hotels Pvt. Ltd. rolled
and off the menu and is open for
out its first owned hotel at
breakfast, lunch and dinner. The
Trivandrum in September 2009.
magnificent view of beautifully
Today all the properties follow the
landscaped surroundings
Keys Brand Personality of being
overlooking the Sabarmati River
Stylish, Cheerful, Cutting Edge
adds a special touch to an elegant
and International.
The Maharajas’ Express launches The Royal Sojourn
T
he Maharaja’s Express, India’s
night journey this october. It will
most luxurious train, is all
offer the guests the chance to see
about to introduce a new 8-day/7-
the fascinating heritage, marvelous architecture and unique mix of cultures of imperial India. The Royal Sojourn, departing from and arriving back to India’s vibrant capital New Delhi, will offer some unique experiences previously inaccessible by a luxury train.
26
The Union Minister for Tourism, Shri Subodh Kant Sahai presenting the ‘Outstanding Tourism Award’ to Ajay Gupta, Chairman & Managing Director, India Travel Mart (ITM) for their Outstanding Contribution for Promoting Tourism in 2 Tier and 3 Tier Cities
ASIAN TRAVELLER
AUGUST 2011
KERALA TRAVELLER
Tourism Education Fair attracts students
T
he first of its kind initiative in Kerala ‘Level Next’, a State level Tourism Education Fair has caught the imagination of students from class 10 and above to choose various career options other than the specialities of medicine and engineering. Launched in the state capital, the fair aims to create awareness among students on Tourism related job-oriented courses and employment opportunities. Inaugurating the fair at Kanakakunnu Auditorium in Trivandrum on July 27, Tourism Minister A.P. Anil Kumar said the immediate challenge for the Kerala Tourism sector is to provide jobs to lakhs of youngsters in the private and public sector in view of the shortage of manpower in the tourism and hospitality industry. “There are various opportunities in the tourism sector, inside and outside Kerala and the technological developments too have taken the tourism sector to the next level. Currently, unemployment is a serious issue in Kerala and in this scenario tourism sector can afford to fill the gap by creating awareness among the youth on various career options. The government is working in this direction to provide job opportunities and possibilities for the youth in the tourism industry,” he said Taking a cue from this, similar tourism education fairs are being organized in all districts of Kerala. The fair was held in Kasargod, Palakkad, Kollam, Thekkady on August 1 and in Kannur, Malappuram, Munnar on August 2, in Wayanad, Thrissur, Alappuzha on August 3, and in Kozhikode, Pathanamthitta and Kottayam on August 4. Facilities have
ASIAN TRAVELLER
year. Tourist industries, private institutes should take up the initiative seriously, and quality of tourism education can resolve the unemployment problem in Kerala and the government has assured wholehearted support,” he said. South Kerala Hoteliers Federation (SKHF) General Convener D Chandrasenan Nair said that only few are employed in the hospitality industry because of lack of awareness. “Students confused over making career moves can think of this level next, an interesting arena of tourism and hospitality related courses and jobs to choose A.P. Anil Kumar, Tourism Minister of Kerala inaugurating the ‘Level Next‘ edu fair by lighting the lamp from. This will emerge as a and also seen are Rani George IAS , Tourism Director, E.M.Najeeb, CMD GITC, U.V. Jose, KITTS Director, K.G. Mohanlal IFS, KTDC Managing Director and SKHF General Convener D. Chandrasenan specialization and students trained in these courses can take up multi-farious career not there and that should challenge it is facing today is the need for human resources. form part of this initiative,” he options,” he said. This Tourism Education “The tourism sector is short of said. Fair was organised under the EM Najeeb, CMD GITC trained manpower and the joint auspices of the State projected annual requirement congratulated Jose and his Tourism Department and is more than two-lakh skilled team from KITTS on the KITTS, in cooperation with initiative which can be a manpower in these the Institute of Hotel Managemilestone in the area of sectors. Recognising this tourism. “Only tourism sector ment and Catering Technolpossibility, all tourism instiogy, State Tourism Institute of can provide employment tutes in Kerala have joined Hospitality Management and opportunities for 45,000 hands to take up the tourism Food Craft Institute. related manpower initiative,” candidates in the next one he said. This spot registration on tourism related courses for students with the basic SSLC qualification to degree or higher, will be held in various districts across the state. lappuzha’s backwater tourism circuit plan has got a Training in industry will be place in the state government’s 100-day programme. offered to students after “The master plan of about Rs. 50 million has been completed passing out of these courses. and will be submitted to the Union Government for Kerala Tourism Developapproval,” said Mr. ment Corporation (KTDC) A. P. Anilkumar, Managing Director KG Mohanlal pointed out that this Minister for Tourism. Alappuzha, one of workshop is significant to the top destinations address the challenge of in the state, can requirement of human reutilise its potential as sources in tourism industry. a coastal town, he He said the industry is in dire added. need of adequate manpower and quality output. “This is been arranged at all these places for spot registration of candidates interested in various courses relating to the tourism industry Kerala Institute of Tourism Studies and Travel Studies (KITTS) Director U V Jose said that tourist industry is growing at a fast pace and greatest
AUGUST 2011
the first such integrated initiative of the Tourism industry and KITTS should ensure the students career prospects and research needs to be done so to build the students trust and appropriately the students should be guided on that. Now, the ‘Finishing School concept’ is
Alappuzha Back water Tourism Master Plan
A
27
KARNATAKA TRAVELLER
Karnataka Tourism to host Hot-air Ballooning Festival in December 2011
A
event.”
s part of promoting
The state tourism department
Karnataka as a Adventure
is also planning to launch Heli-
Tourism destination,
Karnataka Tourism is all set to
Tourism from September this year
undertake a set of measures to
and will connect Hampi, Badami,
promote adventure sports and
Aihole, Pattatakkal, and Bijapur as
other activities in the state.
a circuit. Reddy said that they are waiting for the monsoon to
As part of the initiative, the
subside to commence operations
state tourism department has
and the required infrastructure
decided to host a Hot-air
from India and abroad will
Ballooning
participate in the four-day event,
Festival from
sources said.
December 29,
K Viswanatha Reddy Director – Tourism
Providing details of the
for the service has been put in place. “We are providing helipads, ground handling facilities, rest
2011 to
Festival, K Viswanatha Reddy,
rooms for pilots, food courts, etc.
January 1,
Director – Tourism, Karnataka
at all these places. Delhi-based
2012.
said, “The Festival will be
Oasis Air Management Services
organised in three different
will be operating their choppers
Festival will be organised in three
regions: Mysore, Hampi and Bidar.
on this circuit. According to
different regions:
About 30 hot-air balloon
Reddy, the frequency of the
Mysore, Hampi and Bidar. About
enthusiasts from India and abroad
service will depend on the
30 hot-air balloon enthusiasts
will participate in the four-day
demand.
The
ASIAN TRAVELLER
AUGUST 2011
29
VARIETY
Neeraj Balani has been appointed as Director Food & Beverage at Radisson Blu Hotel New Delhi Paschim Vihar.
Sophy K. Magal has joined Media Steps India, the publisher of Asian Traveller as Regional DirectorKarnataka
Manoj Kumar has been appointed as Head HR, Radisson Blu Hotel New Delhi Paschim Vihar
Anil Mathew has joined Media Steps India, the publisher of Asian Traveller as Executive Editor
Mohd Irfan has joined as Head Chef at Radisson Blu Hotel New Delhi Paschim Vihar.
Lekshmi J. has joined Media Steps India, the publisher of Asian Traveller as Executive Secretary to Editor
1.
What is the name of Oslo’s airport?
2.
Which is the only book in Old Testament where the word ‘God’ does not appear at all?
3.
What is AIBOHPHOBIA?
4.
Who composed the 6-second start-up jingle for the Microsoft’s windows operating system?
5.
What is the connection between Abraham Lincoln and Good Friday?
6.
What is the codename ‘Project Emerald Sea’ for?
7.
Which is the country the TV Network ‘Al Jazeera’ based in?
8.
What is Jack Dorsey’s famous invention?
9.
When you crush a piece of diamond, what colour will be its dust?
10. Which is supposed to be the Most Misspelled City in USA?
Compiled by DEEKAY
Send in your answers to info@mediastepsindia.com with TYKC 47 in the the subject line. Answers should reach us before the 10th of next month. Answers to TYKC 46
AUGUST 2011 Teej Festival, Jaipur
2-3
India International Travel Mart (IITM), Chennai
5-7
FICCI Domestic Tourism Conclave, The Lalit. New Delhi
10
Nehru Trophy Boat Race, Alappuzha
13
CIBTM, Beijing China
30-Sept 1
SEPTEMBER 2011 3-5
PATA Travel Mart, New Delhi
6-9
Onam, Kerala
8-9
Ladakh Festival, Ladakh IFTM Top Resa, Paris France World Tourism Day
Sneha Sukhavas, MM Layout,
1-15
K B Sandra, RT Nagar, Bangalore-32
20-23
26-Oct 6
OCTOBER 2011 IT&CMA and CTW Asia Pacific, Bangkok, Thailand
4-6
Marwar Festival
10-11
Rajasthan International Folk Festival, Jodhpur
12-16
ITB Asia, Singapore
19-21
Aviation Outlook Asia, Singapore
30
KAVITA MULEVA
14
27
Durga Puja Festival, West Bengal
for couples, 9. Europe, 10. The Vatican City
WINNER OF TYKC 46
India International Travel Mart (IITM), Mumbai
Aranmula Boat Race
1. Reddish brown eagle ( Malay) because of the islands similarity to it from the aerial view, 2.In Upstate New York, 3. The quadripoint called Four Corners ( Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, and Utah meet at that point), 4. In Canada 5. Bill Gates' in Medina, Washington 6. From the 1000-year old redwood tree there known as El Palo Alto, Spanish for 'the Tall Stick', 7. Seeing a pattern in something vague or at random like seeing a dinosaur out of a cloud, 8. A Brazilian dance
Oct 31-Nov 2
One all-correct entry will get
Free Stay at Le-Meridien, Kochi [ 2 nights and 3 days for two ]* Nestled amongst 25 acres of coconut groves and backwater rivers, Le Méridien Cochin Resort & Convention Centre sits at the heart of one of India's most naturally beautiful cities, Kochi. This prestigious landmark houses 5 floors of luxurious accommodation for international business and leisure travelers. The 151 spacious rooms and suites, most with breathtaking views over the manicured gardens and the backwaters. * Conditions apply
ASIAN TRAVELLER
AUGUST 2011
ASIAN TRAVELLER
AUGUST 2011
31
32
ASIAN TRAVELLER
JULY 2011