Asian Traveller January 2009 by Asian Traveller

CONTENT Vol. 2 | No. 4 | JANUARY 2009

UNWTO Assures Full Support and Assistance to India

Francesco Frangialli, Secretary-General UNWTO called on India Minister of Tourism and Culture, Ambika Soni recently.

Tourism Will be a Key Factor in Overcoming Recession

Tourism is facing increas ingly difficult conditions as the global economy deteriorates and Asia and the Pacific, one of fastest growing tourism regions in the world.

Hard Times Ahead for an Industry Spoiled by Success: ITB Report

A Managing Editor Group Editor Vice President & CEO Executive Editor Consultant Editor Photo Editor Art Editor Editorial Team

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Director (Finance) Legal Advisor Financial Advisor G.M-North Sr.Mgr. Tamilnadu

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AUSTRALIA

: Bandana K. Prasad 0061-892757447 : Vladimir Harizanov 00359-36186565 : Sam Mathew 00966-505150513 : Abdul Najeeb 0044-7769940391 : Bob A. Rex 00960 7776212 : Sanjeev S. L. 00971 501640549 : Mariam Titus 00965 6638670 : V. K. Gangal 09871180498 : Mahesh Nair 022 32499989 : Rohil Kumar A. B. 09844001625 : Nisha J. 09841008588 : K.S. Johnson 09441236010 : P. Mohandas 09719055472 : P. Deenadayalu 09843129535 : M. P. Sreekumar 09447118694 : Anurag Sinha 09830015667 : M. Sreekumar 09745444166 : Sheeba S. Jaya Rajeshwari Vidhu Krishna

BULGARIA KSA LONDON

According to the ITB World Travel Trends Report hard times lie ahead for the world's travel industry.

MALDIVES UAE

Destination

KUWAIT NEW DELHI MUMBAI BANGALORE CHENNAI

HYDERABAD DEHRADUN

Phornsiri Manoharn Governor , Tourism Authority of Thailand

ASEAN TO INCREASE CONNECTIVITY TO BOOST TRAVEL

MADURAI ERNAKULAM

10 Questions

Page

Woman of the Month

MACAU TOURISM CONTINUES DRIVE TO DIVERSIFICATION

KOLKATA

DUBAI SHOPPING FESTIVAL KICKS OFF

Administration

PUNJAB HIRES UNWTO CONSULTANTS TO DEVELOP TOURISM

AAI RECEIVES 'MINIRATNA CATEGORY-I' POWERS

GROUNDSERVICES.CA APPOINTS AVIAREPS AS GSA IN INDIA

GKSF EXCEEDS EXPECTATIONS

FLYING HIGH Pran S. Dasan

AS I TRAVEL V Duraikkannan Page

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM

14 16

Cover: English Garden with City Skyline in Munich. Photo Courtesy : Munich Tourist Office

JANUARY 2009 ASIAN TRAVELLER

Publication G. Biju Krishnan G. Gopakumar* M. P. Sreekumar Lerbin T. K. Dr. Madhav Manoj Retheesh Kariyam Amal Prasad R. Parameswaran Smitha R. K. Harikrishnan V. N.Gopalakrishnan Nair B. Prasad Wg. Cdr. V. K. Gangal P. Deenadayalu

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, www.mediastepsindia.com Regd. Office: Media Steps India, TC-27/1915, MBRRA 70, Mathrubhoomi Rd., Thiruvananthapuram–695 001, Kerala State, South India. Mumbai Office: Media Steps India, Unit 9 & 10, Sardar Pratap Singh Industrial Estate No. 2, LBS Marg, Bhandup West, Mumbai-400078, India Tel.: +91 22 32499989 Hyderabad Office: Media Steps India, # B-305 & 309, Vasudha Apartments, Quthbullapur Road, New Jeedimetla, Hyderabad-500 055, Andhra Pradesh, India Tel.: +91 40 23080750, +91 40 23176966, +91 40 23176996, Fax: +91 40 27535260 Chennai Office: Media Steps India, 6/4, Sangeetha Gardens, 19th Street Ext, Jai Nagar, Arumbakkam, Chennai - 600 106. Tel: +91 44 42640531 EDITED, PRINTED & PUBLISHED BY G. Biju Krishnan and Printed at M/s. Safire Offset Printers, Sivakasi, Tamil Nadu for Cristal Printers, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala State, South India. Reg No.: KERENG 01910/11/1/2006-TC EDITOR: G. Biju Krishnan The news items and Advertisements published herein have been collected from various source, which are considered to be reliable. Readers are however requested to verify the facts before making business decisions using the same. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without the written permission from the Publisher. All rights reserved. Copyright © 2008 *Responsible for selection of news under the PRB Act

EDITOR’S NOTE

he month January got its name from the Roman god Janus, who according to Roman mythology is the god of beginnings and endings and also the god of doors, gates and doorways. In Roman mythology Janus is depicted with two faces - one face looking back at the past and the other looking forward to the future. As the New Year dawns the world economy in general and the tourism sector in particular are doing exactly that. World Travel and Tourism Council's President and CEO Jean-Claude Baumgarten has said that there is no doubt that the travel and tourism industry is facing significant challenges in 2009. Across Asia hotels, airlines and tourism operators are bracing for another tough year. The flow of long haul visitors are drying up and the regional travellers are tightening pursestrings with shorter, budget trips. Asia's blend of diverse cultures, geography, bargains and exoticism have made it one of the world's fastest growing tourism regions in recent years. But since the global economic recession hit the world like a tsunami in 2008 travel markets in the region have suffered sharp contractions. The slowdown was particularly strong since August following the spike in oil prices and the consequent cuts in airline capacity and increasing transport costs. In fact, all world regions have followed broadly similar slowdown patterns. But in Asia and the Pacific the extreme weather, security concerns and political shifts in major markets aggravated the situation. The impact in receipts is expected to be even more significant as travellers trim down their length of stay and their consumption in terms of type of accommodation and other activities. But things are improving, though slightly. Thailand, a destination which got a double blow in the form of political unrest and global recession is getting back to more or less normal, according to reports. Tourism is more and more emerging as a strong potential contributor to economic recovery. Another excellent example is China's current plan to stimulate its 1.6 billion domestic travel market as one of the government's measures to stimulate economic growth. As Geoffrey Lipman, UNWTO Assistant Secretary General rightly observed "Tourism can deliver more than most sectors for the economy as a whole."

Happy New Year. G. Biju Krishnan Editor & Publisher

Accolades

Verbatim Krishnan Nair Receives AAHS Lifetime Achievement Award

he American Academy of Hospitality Sciences (AAHS) has awarded its `Life Time Achievement Five Star Diamond Award 2009' to C P Krishnan Nair, Chairman of The Leela Group. He has been honoured for taking corporate responsibility through its practice of environment protection and sustainability in all its Leela properties. The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts, support United Nations Environment Programme's (UNEP) Billion Tree Campaign, a global initiative to encourage tree planting. The existing Leela properties have planted and nurtured a total of 35,56,699 trees and plants to date and have pledged to plant another 78,447 trees and plants for The Leela Palace, Udaipur, which is scheduled to open in March 2009. The AAHS is renowned for awarding excellence in global travel and luxury services sector. The awards salute true quality in the hospitality industry worldwide.

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"It is becoming increasingly clear that global leaders are looking to a green new deal to help respond to the challenges of the macroeconomic crisis and the climate and development agenda. New jobs, new technology, new finance to stimulate our economies and

at the same time to reduce our carbon footprint. There is no better sector for this green economy approach than tourism. Tourism can deliver for the economy as a whole. It is a catalytic industry and should be part of stimulus packages for infrastructure, jobs and investment"

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Geoffrey Lipman Assistant Secretary General , UNWTO

ASIAN TRAVELLER JANUARY 2009

OVERVIEW

UNWTO Assures Full Support and Assistance to India rancesco Frangialli, Secretary-General United Nations World Tourism Organization called on India Minister of Tourism and Culture, Ambika Soni recently. During their meeting in Delhi, Soni apprised the Secretary-General of the latest developments in India's tourism industry, the continued and steady growth of international and domestic tourists, the success of the Incredible India campaign, and new bilateral initiatives to foster tourism particularly from the Chinese and Japanese markets. Frangialli complimented the Minister on the excellent achievements of India's tourism industry and applauded the Government for its initiative in diversifying India's tourism product. He noted that over the past five years or so, Indian tourism has made excellent progress and recorded growth rates which

were much above the global and regional growth rates. Of late, Indian tourism has made its mark in major primary source markets of Western Europe, North America and the Far East. The Indian tourism product has undergone tremendous diversification and the country now offers various new forms of tourism which would attract new tourist segments in primary generating markets. The credit for this achievement goes entirely to the policies and strategies of the Government, a very effective and healthy publicprivate sector partnership and new innovations in the industry. Francesco Frangialli reiterated his condolences on the loss of lives in the terrorist attacks in Mumbai but also expressed his conviction that this was a localised incident which would not affect the Indian tourism industry in the

long term, given the global perception of India as a safe, secure and extremely hospitable destination. He hoped that the India's tourism industry would demonstrate its strength and resiliency over the coming months and regain the consumer confidence. He lauded some of the tangible steps taken by the Government of India which would go a long way in accelerating the complete recovery of the industry. He assured the Minister of UNWTO's full

support and all possible technical assistance in the recovery process and for the further development and promotion of the country's tourism industry. The Secretary-General thanked Ambika Soni for her able chairpersonship of the Organization's Executive council - the highest policy making body - during 2008 and hoped that India would continue to play a positive and constructive role in the affairs of the Organization.

Tourism Will be a Key Factor in Overcoming Recession

ourism is facing increas ingly difficult conditions as the global economy deteriorates and Asia and the Pacific, one of fastest growing tourism regions in the world, is also strongly feeling the impact of the global slowdown. But, as concluded by the over 100 experts from 25 countries gathered in Guilin for the Second UNWTO Conference on Tourism Trends and Outlook, tourism can be one of the key sectors contributing to overcome the current economic difficulties and can play a vital part in a long term green economic new deal. International tourist arrivals in Asia and the Pacific are estimated to have increased by around 3 per cent between January and October this year as compared to a 10.5 per cent growth for the full of 2007. The slowdown was particularly strong since August following the

spike in oil prices and the consequent cuts in airline capacity and increasing transport costs. In fact, all world regions have followed broadly similar slowdown patterns and Asia and the Pacific has been no exception with extreme weather, security and political shifts in major markets compounding the situation. The impact in receipts is expected to be even more significant as travellers trim down their length of stay and their consumption in terms of type of accommodation and other activities. In the shorter term, overall prospects - against continuing downward revisions in macroeconomic expectations and primary generating markets in recession look quite gloomy. But tourism is more and more emerging as a strong potential contributor to economic recovery. An excellent example is China's current plan to

stimulate its 1.6 billion domestic travel market as one of the government's measures to stimulate economic growth. "Tourism can deliver more than most sectors for the economy as a whole. Mobility is hardwired into the human gene. Tourism - for business and leisure underpins trade, communication and modern lifestyles. It is one of the biggest export sectors and a vital increasingly important part of the development agenda." stressed Geoffrey Lipman, UNWTO Assistant Secretary General. The Conference was organised by the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) in collaboration with the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA), the Boao Forum for Asia and the Hong Kong Polytechnic University and hosted by Guilin city with the support of the China National Tourism Administration (CNTA).

JANUARY 2009 ASIAN TRAVELLER

Francesco Frangialli, Secretary General, UNWTO with Ambika Soni, Union Minister of Tourism, India

AMAZING THAILAND

Thai Travel Industry Back to Normal Recently the Asian Traveller spoke to Phornsiri Manoharn. Excerpts from the interview:

Phornsiri Manoharn Governor , Tourism Authority of Thailand

he Thai travel and tourism industry is now back to normal, says Phornsiri Manoharn, Governor, Tourism Authority of Thailand. In an open letter to the travel industry she said the travel disruptions caused by the closure of Bangkok's two airports are now over and it's back to business as usual. TAT and related government agencies are preparing to mobilize their marketing resources to resume visitor flows, especially from our major markets, she added. Emphasis will be placed on inviting travel agents and media to see the situation for themselves, especially the fact that life is normal in all the popular tourist spots of Thailand.

What are the main markets of Thailand? The traditional markets of Thailand include Japan, Malaysia, China and Korea which counts about one million arrivals. From Europe the main markets are UK, Germany and France which is about half a million. For the future we consider India and China to be our main markets. What are the plans of Thailand tourism in India? We have set up an office in Delhi and will be setting up one more in Mumbai. We will be having a representative here who will be working hard for us and we will be promoting the land more through different media and airlines. What is your marketing strategy?

We target the groups who will enjoy going to Thailand like those from the film industry. People are also coming in for conducting wedding ceremonies. We could arrange everything for them including decorated elephants. They can come for short or small meetings and in-house meetings and it have something for everybody. As a whole we promote seven wonders of Amazing Thailand. But from India we see more families travelling together to our land. What is your message to the industry? There is an old saying that 'Tourism is all about travelling'. We would like all people to keep travelling, to visit your neighbours and far away countries and make friends with them.

ASIAN TRAVELLER JANUARY 2009

WORLD VIEW

ASEAN to Increase Connectivity to Boost Travel he ASEAN Travel Forum (ATF), the annual event for all Southeast Asian nations, was hosted for the first time in Vietnam in the midst of the most serious crisis faced by the region since SARS in 2003. Tourism in the region will brace with a word wide economic downturn- even a recession in countries or regions such as the USA, Japan, Korea and Europe. ASEAN ministers of tourism acknowledge that 2009 will then be a tough year for tourism despite the fact that the region might be more resilient than others to financial turmoil. The eight-day ASEAN Tourism Forum came to a close in Ha Noi on January 12 with member-nations agreeing to step up integration and connectivity

to boost travel within the region. The member countries will set an intraASEAN tourism program to lure their tourists to visit fellow ASEAN countries. The tourism ministers signed the ASEAN Tourism Strategic Plan 2011-2015 for the

purpose. It is expected to provide an opportunity to develop tourism human resources and movement of workers within the region. The countries also agreed to

establish an ASEAN tourism investment corridor. National tourism departments will work together to draw up a list of standard homestay facilities to help visitors learn about the cultures of the different countries. As part of the ATF, travel fair Travex 2009 was held at the Vietnam Exhibition Fair

Sri Lanka Seeks India's Expertise in Strengthening Tourism Sector ri Lanka has announced that it was keen to participate in Travel Marts in India such as the forthcoming Great Indian Travel Bazar in Jaipur in April this year as it has a pan-Asian dimension. The Tourism Minister of Sri Lanka, Milinda Moragoda who called on Minister of Tourism and Culture, Ambika Soni said that India is a magnet and has established a benchmark in promotion of tourism sector in the world with its Incredible India campaign and any effort to take the lead in promoting tourism related cooperation by it will be supported by Sri Lanka. During their 40-minutes meeting both the leaders discussed matters of cooperation in tourism sector between the two countries. The visiting dignitary praised India's

efforts against terrorism in the wake of Mumbai terror attacks and said his country would like to exchange ideas with India on security scenario in tourism sector. Ambika Soni conveyed to her Sri Lankan counterpart that several steps are being taken by the Government of India and the Ministry of Tourism to meet the challenges posed by global meltdown and Mumbai terror attacks. She said hotel associations have come out with their own security guidelines in India after the Mumbai terror attack and the Government is providing them whatever assistance is necessary. Milinda Moragoda urged Soni to provide expert help to Sri Lanka in strengthening the tourism sector and said Sri Lanka wants to learn from India how tourism related issues are dealt at the State and community level. He said Sri Lanka is involving private sector in tourism related activities and wants to develop new tourism related products to attract more tourists. Ambika Soni said tourism is an economic driver in India from which the Centre as well as the State Governments are benefiting. She said India is developing 22 mega destinations to Milinda Moragoda, Tourism Minister, Sri Lanka with provide complete experience for Ambika Soni, Union Minister of Tourism, India tourists.

JANUARY 2009 ASIAN TRAVELLER

Center on January 10-12, attracting more than 500 international tour companies. The next ATF, themed "ASEAN, the Heart of Green; 10 Destinations, One Conservation Vision," will be held in Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei, in January 2010. In 2008, about 30 million people of ASEAN countries had visited countries in the region.

Aeroplane Hotel Ready for 'Take-Off' n abandoned jumbo jet at Sweden's biggest airport will open this month as the world's first aeroplane hotel. The "Jumbo Hotel" - a disused Boeing 747 at Stockholm-Arlanda Airport - has 25 rooms, each measuring 65 sq. ft. They are furnished with bunk beds, overhead luggage compartments and flat-screen televisions offering entertainment and flight information. A reception area and cafĂŠ are at the front of the jet and toilets and showers are at the rear. The Boeing's upper deck is being converted into a conference room, while the cockpit is being transformed into a wedding suite. The hotel is the brainchild of Oscar DiĂśs, a Swedish entrepreneur. He thinks the relatively cheap and novel accommodation will attract flying enthusiasts and budget travellers alike.

WORLDVIEW

Hard Times Ahead for an Industry Spoiled by Success: ITB Report ard times lie ahead for the world's travel industry. According to the ITB World Travel Trends Report, conducted by the consultants IPK International and commissioned by the trade show, "at best, 2009 will be a year of stagnation." Published in Berlin, the trend analysis forecasts that in the wake of the global financial and economic crisis, the travel industry can expect to contract by one to two per cent in 2009, and that in all likelihood the downturn will continue before things improve. Nor are the signals for 2010 encouraging. Dr. Martin Buck, Director Competence Center Travel & Logistics, Messe Berlin: "Recent months have shown how quickly the circumstances on which to base reliable predictions can change. Besides any economic recovery, factors such as price developments on the markets for raw materials have a sustained impact on the travel industry, making it impossible

to issue reliable forecasts at this time." The 2009 edition of ITB Berlin will take place from 11 to According to 15 March, and will be open to trade visitors on the first three the ITB Travel days. The ITB Berlin Convention will be taking place along with Trends Report, the trade fair from 11 to 14 March 2009. Fachhochschule imminent Worms and the US-based market research company negative PhoCusWright Inc partners of the ITB Berlin Convention, while developments Turkey co-hosts this year's ITB Berlin Convention. Air Berlin is will impact the premium sponsor of the ITB Business Travel Days 2009. strongest on North America, Europe and the business travel dialogue", he added. poll for the European Travel sector, rather than on holiday Monitor in 2008, 48 per cent The findings of the ITB travel. According to Dr. Martin World Travel Trends Reports of respondents said they Buck, over the next two years indicate that the prospects for would definitely take a holiday interest in short and medium- the travel market recovering in 2009, and that it was most range travel destinations will likely they would travel more vary significantly depending increase. In addition, with on the region. According to the often than in 2008. lower fuel prices there will be researchers, the Asian-Pacific Responding to the same a resurgence of personal car question, 32 per cent region and South America travel. ITB Berlin will be could emerge from the crisis announced they would travel taking place from 11 to 15 at least as often as in 2008, by the end of this year, as March 2009. "Currently and only 14 per cent said they these are the regions which bookings are steady and depend most on rising demand would travel less. 6 per cent of numbers are very high. Once those polled said that in 2009 from the threshold countries again we see that in an they would not travel at all. India and China. economically difficult According to the trend However, figures within situation a global network Europe vary considerably. analysis there are positive platform such as ITB Berlin is signs for Europe as well. Even Whereas Norwegians and becoming increasingly in times of great economic Finns are eager to travel in important. In these times hardship people are unwilling 2009, Italians and Britons are business partners want to to give up holidays. Thus, rather less keen to make any engage in direct, face-to-face according to a Europe-wide plans.

ITB Berlin and Con Convvention 2009

he second phase of the Incredible India outdoor advertising campaign in Seoul with New Creative produced by the Ministry of Tourism has been launched by S. R. Tayal, Ambassador of India to Korea by flagging off the Subway Train wrapped in Incredible India images. This Subway Train wrapped in Incredible India images will ply for two months from Danggogae to Oido - the busiest route in Korea. The impact of the Outdoor Advertising campaigns launched in the Korean Market during 2008 in Seoul and Jeju Island has yielded increase in bookings received by the travel industry from this market. Korea is a prime tourist generating market for India and in 2008 India received about 70,000 tourists, including repeat visitors from this market. It is expected that in 2009 this figure will increase further.

ASIAN TRAVELLER JANUARY 2009

Q & A

SUNIL SIKKA HEAD - MARKETING & BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT WELCOMHERITAGE INDIA

Tell us about your Hotel Group. We have 61 heritage properties, with each being different and with its own unique USP. For instance, we have a number of properties located at National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries, which are famous for their special category of wildlife and foliage. There are Palaces and Forts, built more than a century ago which are famous for their luxury and history. Those on the hills are known for their scenic views of the Himalayas and trekking facilities, while on the plains there are homes and tented camps in deserts and regal mansions set within gardens. Each WelcomHeritage property offers a different experience. How do you position the Hotel in the market? What is your marketing strategy? We offer unique experiences, aimed at attracting both international and domestic travellers. Our summer and winter holiday packages attract a large number of families and help in selling even the most out of the way location. This is because we market circuits and try to fit the properties into workable tour routes - which essentially mean that a customer gets to see more, while the property essentially sells the others linked in the circuit. How important is a Hotel in developing a destination? What has your company done in this regard? In the case of heritage properties, they are usually part of the history of the destination. Hence one might say, each heritage hotel is a destination in itself and a splendid base for visiting surrounding tourist areas also. Could you tell us about your background and how did you come to the industry?

I am a commerce graduate from Delhi University. Out of the college, I was looking for a job. At the same time ITC Hotel Division had just been formed and they were looking out for young talented people. Since then I became a part of ITC and the hospitality industry. Please tell us about your experience so far? The experience so far remains wonderful. Every step have been a learning and fruitful experience for me. To serve people and to please them makes every moment of life unforgettable. What plans - immediate and long term - do you have? My immediate plan of utmost importance is to ensure to meet the target revenue of the hotels under these circumstances. Apart from this my long term plan is to continue to remain the best heritage hotels chain of the country. Where would you like to see yourself, say, 10 years from now? 10 years from today, I would be a retired person. But I would continue to help the tourism industry and may teach students of Hotel Management. Please tell us about your family? My family consists of my wife Savita, who is a home maker and two daughters Shveta and Nupur. Shveta is happily married and Nupur is pursuing her MBA. Please tell us about your hobbies and other interests? My hobby is to read and also to spend time with my plants. Which is your favourite destination? My favourite destination is Manali. There is nothing to beat being surrounded by mountains on all sides and yet be in this cosy and warm retreat. The sound of the river Beas hurtling down the mountain side, lulls one to sleep at night. Whenever I feel like doing a bit of trekking I can indulge myself and visit interesting locations. Also there is the Hang Gliding club, which is always a great hit with my family and friends.

World's First Non-Profit Luxury Eco-Resort he first non-profit and luxury eco-resort to commit 100 percent of operating profits to environmental protection and social improvements will be built on a 124-acre private island in the Calamianes archipelago, at the northernmost tip of the Palawan Biosphere Reserve in the Philippines. The property, named Cacao Pearl, will occupy an entire private island, with 124 acres of lush rainforest and towering coconut trees fringed with over a mile of pristine beaches, according to its operator, Cacao Resorts. This new approach to resort-communities is

Palawan Biosphere Reserve

JANUARY 2009 ASIAN TRAVELLER

nestled within the eco-tourism destination of Palawan - Philippines, a stunning eco preservation area within sailing distance of two UNESCO World heritage sites and four marine reserves. The Cacao Pearl is an eco-chic low-density boutique resort concept promising sustainable development and sustainable enjoyment Ë&#x153; designer homes with zero carbon cost, 5 stars service, an infinity pool, wreck & reef diving, a secluded destination spa, organic gardens and bar, restaurant, private media rooms and enough delicious design details to delight the most discerning guest.

WORLD VIEW

Macau Tourism Continues Drive to Diversification acau's tourism industry continues to move towards diversification. That was the key messages emerged from the Macau Government Tourist Office annual press conference. The MGTO Annual Press Conference was at the Macau Tower Convention and Entertainment Center. MGTO Director Jo茫o Manuel Costa Antunes reviewed the tourism achievement of Macau in 2008 and outlined this year's tourism development strategies to nearly 500 attendants including MGTO representatives around the world, travel industry partners and 150 international and local media. MGTO Director explained that diversification of tourism products and source markets are the main objectives for this year. "MGTO will utilise tourism resources to enhance the development of cultural tourism. Thematic tour routes will be developed to attract visitors of different interests, while

multi-destination tourism itineraries will be explored to build up a regional tourism brand," he said. The MGTO is also planning a series of promotional activities to celebrate the 10th anniversary in December of the establishment of Macau SAR. MGTO will launch a series of promotional activities, focused on World Heritage, to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the establishment of the Macau SAR.

Dubai Sports City in Spotlight

Dubai Shopping Festival Kicks Off

he Dubai Sports City, the 4 billion dollar 50 million sq ft mixed-use sports city will be the next biggest attraction of Dubai as it is nearing completion. International sporting events are scheduled to take place at the DSC cricket stadium in the first half of 2009 while the WorldHockey Academy will be handed over in

he 14th edition of Dubai Shopping Festival got underway recently with the residents, visitors, families, and shoppers looking forward to 32 days of world-class entertainment and shopping promotions across Dubai. Although the official opening was cancelled as an act of solidarity with people in Gaza, all events for DSF 2009 will go on as planned. DSF 2009, backed by the strong participation of 40 shopping malls and over 6000 retail outlets offers massive discounts on international brands. The theme for this year's DSF, 'Celebrate the Festivities', highlights the event as an exclusive period where visitors can enjoy the best of four seasons in a year. Apart from the 150 events including renowned international entertainment acts and huge discounts, shoppers stand the chance to win prizes worth millions of dirhams through raffles giving away luxury cars and cash. Laila Suhail, CEO of DSF Office said, "Every DSF edition is the result of careful planning, extensive research, and innovation which plays a major role in the success of the event. As a city that hosts more than 200 nationalities, Dubai's social fabric is an inspiration for us to organize events and activities that are truly global in nature and this element will be very much visible in DSF 2009."

March 2009, with the initial focus on delivering the Asia Cup hockey tournament in the first week of May. All academies will begin offering programmes and courses in 2009. There will be five major sports venues and features an academies campus. The academies campus will house football, swimming, rugby and hockey academies as well as the ICC Global Cricket Academy, the Butch Harmon School of Golf and the David Lloyd Tennis Academy. The next facility to open will be the Football Academy and ICC Global Cricket Academy towards the end of the second quarter, followed by swimming, rugby and a High Performance Centre.

Theme for WTTC 2009 Summit Announced World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) which met in Lisbon recently has unveiled the theme of the 9th Global Travel & Tourism Summit: 'Real Partnerships - Energizing Economies.' The 9th Global Travel & Tourism Summit, will be held in Santa Catarina's state capital, Florian贸polis.

Paranormal Tourism New Orleans, America's most haunted city, will have the world's first-of-its-kind, multi-million-dollar paranormal complex - PARAPLEX, which will offer locals, tourists, and conventioneers a completely unique, unusual, and exciting allsense experience while delving into the mysterious world of the paranormal. The high-tech paranormal complex will include paranormal art galleries, hands-on interactive psychic testing exhibits, a simulated seance room, a Ghost Experience Simulator, and its own on-site theater for workshops, documentaries, and feature film screenings. The PARAPLEX is located in haunted mansion built in the late 1800's as a private residence and later a funeral home.

No More Space Tourists From Russia Russia won't be sending tourists to the international space station after this year because of plans to double the size of the station's crew, the chief of Russia's space agency said in an interview published recently. Anatoly Perminov told the government newspaper Rossiiskaya Gazeta that "The crew of the space station, as you know, will be expanded this year to six members. Therefore there won't be any possibility for making tourist flights to the station after 2009." ASIAN TRAVELLER JANUARY 2009

PERSONALITY

GAURI JAYARAM REGIONAL DIRECTOR SOUTH ASIA AND MIDDLE EAST GLOBUS FAMILY OF BRANDS

I am passionate about my work and I have been fortunate to have the opportunity to do something I enjoy tremendously

JANUARY 2009 ASIAN TRAVELLER

How did you become interested in hospitality business? It was certainly not a planned career. I left my home to study at Sydenham College of Commerce and Economics when I was 17 and after graduation I wanted a job that would keep me afloat financially so I could become independent. I applied for a job with an airline through an advertisement and I got the job. Once I became a part of the trade there was no looking back - now I am on my 17th year in the travel trade. What is your current role at your company? Ours is the world's largest coach tour company and I am currently the Regional Director - South Asia and Middle East. So the company depends on me for running the office and growing the market for the company. We focus only on outbound business from this office and it being a Liaison Office, we work only with the travel trade, although we also do some amount of consumer branding activities also for the 4 brands that come under the Globus Family of Brands i.e Cosmos, Globus, Avalon Waterways and Monograms. What plans - immediate and long term - do you have? While we do coach tours, we are very clear that we are not reaching out to the mass customer from India. We are focused on the niche cosmopolitan traveler who enjoys local cuisine, strives for the authentic destination experience, wants a balance of free time and the conveniences of a coach tour, and is comfortable with the international companion who could be from any country. Our goals and plans are all focused on growing this niche and making our brands the first choice for such travelers. As a travel industry professional what is your ambition? For now I am happy where I am, I have everything that one can aspire for in their professional life, from independence to appreciation, a great company to work with, an environment that poses new challenges every day and an awesome team to work with a definite growth path for the company that I can influence and contribute to. It's hard to say where I would be ten years from now but I hope to be able to make a difference in the lives of those who really need it in some way. Who or what has been the greatest influence in your professional life? To take on any challenge with a positive attitude and do whatever I do, to the best of my ability. To see

positive things in situations that can't be tackled and to change every negative to a positive. To keep innovating to stay ahead. Always doing things that appeal to my sense of values and standing up for what I believe in. As woman, what were the challenges you had to face in your professional life? What is your advice to young girls in the sector? I was lucky to have started my career in Mumbai where there is hardly any gender bias. I did face a some challenges when I joined Air Mauritius in Chennai, at that time there were 11 on-line carriers and I was the only woman manager and people were not that comfortable with a woman, but things are different now. I would tell every young girl, anywhere in the world, that they are no different from any other person, man or woman and that they can do anything they set out to achieve - as long as they work towards it! What is the secret of your success? On a professional level, there is no secret really, it is the age-old preached philosophy of no-pain, no gain. There is truly no short-cut and no substitute to hard work. I am passionate about my work and I have been fortunate to have the opportunity to do something I enjoy tremendously. I am fearless, focused, tough on myself and also on others, yet I use my heart as much as I use my head in business. What is your proudest moment (till date) in your job? I think all opportunities lead to some sense of achievement. It is important to enjoy the moment but more important to recover and move on quickly because success is always temporary and I believe more in focusing on the journey rather than the destination. Moreover, no moment of glory is achieved alone, I have only been the face of the companies, in honesty, it has always been everyone's contribution the team has been as important! Tell us about your family. My older daughter, Aprajita is seven years old and my younger one Gayatri is five. They are both very different from each other and I delight in their differences and while the older one is exactly the opposite of me in nature, I find her peaceful to be with, and the younger one and I have great fun because we are two of a kind. My husband, Uday, is my rock of Gibraltar and I have no qualms in accepting that he is in fact my better half and my dream job could easily be my worst nightmare, if it isn't for his unconditional support and emancipated attitude. What are your hobbies? I love to have fun! I paint in all mediums, I also enjoy going through art books. I am always looking at sports columns to see how Indians are faring - be it chess or tennis or athletics . I have become inseparable from my i-pod which I acquired when I won a bet from a friend in the travel trade. I also love watching musicals. I love travelling, being with people and outings with my daughters, nieces and nephews. I also enjoy good books and an occasional movie. Outings are important to me. I really believe in work-life balance and I feel one of the worst ways to live is to live and die for their work.

COLUMN

Satyam Hidden Truths in Aviation ever has a word developed into a cliché faster than the word 'Satyam' has, in the context of Indian business. I guess some would have seen it coming when the promoters of the company launched yet another business venture but decided to do a 'shirshasan' with the Satyam name and turned it into one of India's most notorious anagrams - Maytas. Ok… so much for the satyams that came tumbling out of the account books of one of the largest IT companies in the country. It came at the time when the economy was taking a beating and the period of correction that invariably follows any boom-time was swinging its scythe. It elicited many an uncomfortable squirming of bottoms on plush leather chairs and brought about introspection, with a host of respected companies rushing to issue statements of assurances that their books of accounts had not been microwaved. 'Sanu ki?'… is an unforgettable Punjabi expression that quite aptly describes the outlook of the average Indian not touched by such events (thank you Devinder Singh Bindra for that term). It actually summarized my views as well on this episode. But what brought an uneasy tingle was the thought that given the free fall of the airline business in India, CEOs tugging at invisible rip-cords to release non-existent parachutes… what was their satyam? I kept getting philosophical. Maytas was Satyam spelt backwards… and possibly a hidden pointer to what they were up to. Similarly, was the fascination for 'Red' (in colour and in name) by some of our airlines - an indicator of the past, present and future of their balance sheets? Aircraft orders that came thick and fast from every Indian carrier in the past three years almost made me wonder if these were Maggi noodle packs or multi-million dollar equipment that you just don't put away into the deep freeze if you didn't need them. There are huge commissions to be made on each aircraft ordered. Who gained? What was their satyam?

N Pran S. Dasan

If we in India look carefully and honestly at 2009 and 2010, we will realize that we have nothing to cheer about except the perverse feel good factor that others are probably worse off.

JANUARY 2009 ASIAN TRAVELLER

With merger being a reality in the near future, the national carriers changed their corporate logo and appearance twice each before zeroing in on a compromise which looked just that. These design changes came at a cost of millions of dollars of tax-payers money, but could not have been done unless somebody was making a killing in the bargain. What was their satyam? Big ticket items apart, Chief Ego-manic Officers apart, Government ineptitude apart, there appear to be uncomfortable and as yet undiscovered satyams at all levels from the ground up in our industry. 2008 was the beginning. If we in India look carefully and honestly at 2009 and 2010, we will realize that we have nothing to cheer about except the perverse feel good factor that others are probably worse off. For aviation in particular, with elections due this year, no major pathbreaking reforms can be expected to be pushed through till well after the polls. And then too the satyam is that the aviation file is only likely to get seen after the new government has finished their business with other sectors whose voices, clout and reach

are much greater. Aviation till then will have to live on a wing, a prayer and a hope that some foreign politician's rant about a nuclear holocaust in West Asia will not again cause OPEC to drive fuel prices to be at par with caviar. So where do we go from here? Will the year ahead see some of our well known airline brands revealing their own satyams? Are their statements of accounts as halfbaked as their business plans or is it one clean sheet albeit in red-ink? Is the goose cooked or will the phoenix rise? Will their names come back to haunt them? It's anybody's guess. 'Sanu ki, Satyamev Jayate' !

INDIAN PANORAMA

Punjab Hires UNWTO Consultants

To Develop Tourism

unjab has hired services of international consult ants from UNWTO to develop tourism in the state. The consultants have already arrived in the state to conduct the research. At the end of their study they will submit a master plan for the development of tourism in Punjab. This plan will cover short term strategies which Punjab government should implement in the next five years to provide benefit to the existing hot spots of Punjab. The long term strategies will suggest the

replication of the plans to other cities of Punjab. Other than this, a team from Asian Development Bank (ADB) is also conducting a techno-feasibility study to ascertain the loan amount of Rs 400 crores, requested by the state to develop infrastructure for the tourism industry. The luxury train in line with 'Palace on Wheels' has been approved. The state will co-ordinate with Himachal Pradesh and Rajasthan as these states too will be a part of the route. Punjab Heritage Tourism Promotion Board (PHTPM) is also

involved with the numerous projects across the state to develop tourism in the state. Currently, the board is in the process of enlisting an agency that will be responsible for creating a brand image for the state and develop marketing strategies. The state has also started Farm Tourism scheme to enable the farmers to have another source of earning and give an opportunity to city dwellers to go in the villages and experience, the simplicity of rural life.

Special Committee Formed to Survey Security Measures elhi government has formed a special committee to conduct a survey with the objective to assess the safety and security measures taken at hotels in the capital. The committee comprises 12 high officials from Delhi police special branch and 24 students from Indian Institute of Hotel Management (IHM), Pusa. This was revealed by N Misra, Assistant Commissioner of Police, New Delhi, in a recent meeting in the capital, organised by Indian Association of Tour Operators of India (IATO). The committee will also examine capital's capability to manage crisis such as emergency situation, fire extinguish and sudden calamities.

Haryana Eyes Ecotourism aryana Tourism Corporation plans to promote Ecotourism in the state in a big way and has initiated a special drive to improve infrastructure at Sultanpur Lake, famous for migratory birds. The Ecotourism project has been started in the area with financial assistance from the Centre. The Haryana Tourism Corporation will act as an agent of the state government to implement proposed projects through the PPP format and lease or auction land, also mentioned in the State Tourism Policy 2008. Besides, Haryana plans to pass laws to utilise the Centre's 'Bed and Breakfast' (B&B) scheme, which enables NCR residents to offer lodging/boarding facilities to visitors/tourists to the region, within a regulated framework.

Chandigarh Hotels to Install CCTV Cameras In attempt to make Chandigarh safe and secure for travellers, the city administration has asked the hotels in the city to install closed circuit television (CCTV) cameras at the entry, exit, reception, underground parking and front parking. The hotels will have to maintain the footage of one month. This decision was taken at meeting convened by the city administration recently to review and discuss security requirements of hotels in the city.

Central Aid to Set up IHM at Rohtak Government of India recently sanctioned Rs 12 crore for setting up a new Institute of Hotel Management (IHM) at Rohtak in Haryana. The State Government has provided about five acres at the Tilyar Lake Tourist Complex in Rohtak for setting up the institute. The institute will conduct a threeyear degree course in Hospitality and Hotel Administration with a capacity of 120 students.

Abhaneri Festival Attracts Many The two-day Abheneri festival, jointly organised by the Rajasthan Tourism Department and the District Administration has been held in the Abhaneri village in Dausa district some 80 kms from Jaipur. Throngs of visitors from the nearby areas and a number of groups of foreign tourists attended the festivities. There were day-long live cultural performances of Hela Khayal, Pad Dangal, Kacchi Ghodi, Bahrupia among others. ASIAN TRAVELLER JANUARY 2009

COLUMN

t was the history class and Winston Churchill was the student. The subject was the Battle of Plassey, an important battle that was very decisive for the British in India (June 23, 1757). His teacher wanting to test his absorption and memory retention asked him when the Battle of Plassey was fought. That was the subject she was deliberating upon for over an hour just then. By way of answer, Churchill gave a blank stare and stood motionless. An irritated teacher chided him that despite his claim for an aristocratic background, he could not remember even such a simple fact. For that Churchill told: 'Madam, I am least bothered about when this battle was fought. I just want to know why at all this battle was fought in the first place!' That was a classical example of QQ! QQ is Quest Quotient just as IQ is Intelligence Quotient. Eugene S. Wilson, the Dean of Admission, Amherst College said 'Only the curious will learn and only the resolute overcome the obstacles to learning. The quest quotient has always excited me more than the intelligence quotient!' The observation is worthwhile coming from a mastermind who President John F.Kennedy wanted to be his Secretary of Education. Questioning is the quest for the knowledge and the truth. Talking about the word 'question', do we know how the John F question Kennedy mark (?) was evolved? In the early days, people were mentioning within parentheses the word 'question' whenever they had to mark a sentence as an interrogation. For instance,

V DURAIKKANNAN

Winston Churchill

JANUARY 2009 ASIAN TRAVELLER

'Your name is theorized that the Smith' is a simple word 'FISH' could statement, whereas be in all certitude 'Your name is spelt as 'GHOTI'. Smith?' could be The reasoning is an interrogation. self-evident from But then they had the following to invent a words. Just punctuation mark pronounce the to this effect to portions avoid writing the highlighted and Bernard Shaw word 'question' Shaw will stand with parentheses every often. vindicated. They decided to take the very Tough, Women, Nation first and the last letter of the Every time I used to go to Latin word for question ' the Western Union, I would quaestio' and used them as notice the singular monogram one set , the last letter by the 'S' within a circle as a first letter ( q/o). As you write registered mark at the end of 'q' with 'o' at the stem of 'q', the name ' Western Union' and (use both small letters) you would ask the staff there what can see the punctuation mark it signified. They would say '?' emerging. that 'S' stood for 'Send'. But

Panama Canal

We keep reading about channels and canals. But have we ever stopped for a second to question ourselves whether they are one and the same, whether they are interchangeable, and in case they are not how distinguished they are from each other. Only your QQ will get you the answer that a channel is a natural one while a canal is man-made. Now we know why it is English Channel and not English Canal or it is Panama Canal and not Panama Channel. One can think of the Ten Degree Channel that divides the Andaman Islands and the Nicobar Islands and the Suez Canal in Egypt as well. It was Bernard Shaw who

English Channel

then when I asked them whether I could send some money abroad, they would reply in the negative. They would explain that from India one can only receive money but not send. This explanation and the symbol 'S' for 'Send' kept me quizzed for long and I was keeping asking every Western Union official I had happened to interact. On my nagging persistence, the staff would say they would check with their head office on the same and get back. This was some two years ago. Now I do find the Western Union signage carries only 'R' in the circle. Perhaps my QQ has worked and the Western Union (India) has made the necessary change!

HOSPITALITY

Global Hyatt Plans 'Andaz' Brand in India Global Hyatt Corporation, hospitality services major, is looking at the option of bringing in more brands into India, including 'Andaz'. Currently Hyatt is in the process of setting up two properties in Hyderabad, one with the Gayatri Group and the other with Lanco Infratech. The Chicagobased Hyatt which manages nearly 400 properties worldwide has five properties in India.

Taj Rebrands Two Properties Taj Hotels Resorts and Palaces has announced re-branding of two of its hotels to the newly launched brand - The Gateway Hotel. Taj Residency, Ernakulam, has been re-branded to the Gateway Hotel, Marine Drive, Ernakulam and Taj Garden Retreat has been re-branded to The Gateway Hotel, Janardhanapuram, Varkala.

Brahma Resorts to Open in Almora Brahma Resorts Pvt Ltd will open a five-star resort hotel in Almora area of. This will be the first five-star property in the area. The construction of the property, which will be a

Lemon Tree Plans Rs 1,200 crore Investment in India emon Tree Hotels, plans to set up a chain of pan-India hotels, investing Rs 1200 crore. As per the capex plan, the company intends to have 20 hotels aggregating 2,500 rooms by 2011. There will be hotels coming up in 15 major cities in India, including South Delhi, Gurgaon, East Delhi, Pune, Goa, Alleppey, Indore, Aurangabad, Mumbai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Chennai, Jaipur, Chandigarh, Shimla and Ahmedabad. The funding for

these projects will be a mix of equity and bank debt. Currently, Lemon Tree Hotels has nine properties across India in the mid-price segment and the other ten properties are under development. The Chennai hotel will open in early 2009 while the two hotels in Bangalore, one in Electronic City and the other on St Johns Road, will open by end-2009 and by mid-2010 respectively. The hotel at Hyderabad is scheduled for opening in 2010.

Taj Group to Expand Serviced Lulu Group ties up with Apartments Business Marriot Hotels he Indian Hotels Company (IHCL), which owns the Taj Group of Hotels, plans to expand the serviced apartments business. It also plans to widen the portfolio of its wildlife resorts. According to reports this is part of IHCL's strategy of doubling the number of its rooms to more than 20,000 in four years. IHCL is in advanced stages of exploring the opportunity of setting up about 700 serviced apartments across various cities in the current year. The company is also expanding its international presence by setting up hotels in Thailand and South Africa apart from having clinched two management contracts in West Asia at Dubai and Saraya Island respectively. The company will be consolidating its spas into one brand called 'Jiva'. IHCL in association with CC Africa had recently set up two wildlife lodges at Bandhavgarh and Pench in Madhya Pradesh.

he $3-billion Lulu Group has entered into a management contract with Marriot Hotels to run the 20-story 300-room business hotel property now under construction in Kochi. The hotel is coming up as part of the Rs 1,200-crore hypermarket-multiplex-airlines tower complex, which is being built by the Dubai-based group. The Group, which has 70 outlets spread across the Gulf countries, plans to have the same global pattern of a large footprint with low-rise buildings of three-to-four story height to house its venture in India. It would have 16 pairs of escalators, possibly the country's first travelator and panoramic lifts, suited to the contours, space and management design of the building.

Suchirindia Diversifies into Theme Parks, Budget Hotels uchirindia Developers is diversifying into entertainment, hospitality and theme parks. It is in the process of setting up a casino in Colombo. The company is awaiting necessary clearances for the casino from the Sri Lankan Government. Suchirindia has announced the Papyrus Port, an Egyptian resorttype theme park, about 15 km from the new international airport, with an investment of Rs 20 crore. It plans to invest Rs 40 crore for the second phase.

Taj GVK Launches Property in Chennai mix of cottages and rooms, will be completed in two phases and will have a soft-opening around MayJune, 2009 with the completion of the first phase of construction. The 100-room hotel will become fully functional by March 2010.

JANUARY 2009 ASIAN TRAVELLER

aj GVK Hotels and Resorts Ltd on Monday launched its new property in Chennai - Taj Mount Road. The hotel, with three restaurants, a bar and a host of other facilities, is positioned as a fivestar business class hotel. The seven-floor property has 220 rooms, including 16 suites and a presiden-

tial suite. The property, which was acquired from Sri Tripurasundari Hotels Ltd in 2004, was originally planned to be launched in 2006. The Chennai property is Taj GVK's fifth hotel in the country. It has three hotels in Hyderabad and one in Chandigarh.

HOSPITALITY

Hotel Mumbai The First Four Seasons Property in India otel Mumbai, the first property of the Four Seasons in the Indian subcontinent provides a distinct feel of hospitality with a significant change in design and concept of the conventional trade. The contemporary western-style luxury hotel with its gleaming glass tower extends 33 storey above its low-rise neighbours and serves as an iconic reference to the spirit of the 'new' Mumbai. Its 202 rooms, which include the city's largest presidential suite have oodles of space, are bright and airy with windows boasting panoramic views over the Arabian Sea.

Open round the clock, the main bar serves continental breakfast, lunch, all-day snacks and international and regional comfort foods. Traditional afternoon tea is served daily and the prime feature is that they serve India's finest and individually selected Single Estate Teas on the tea menu. Seating spills onto the adjacent outdoor verandah, providing the perfect setting for after-work and predinner drinks. An exquisite selection of international and local wines by the glass, classic cocktails, creative martinis and Italian aperitifs are available alongside a special selection of

aged single malts and vintage cognacs. The Hotel's outdoor swimming pool, set amidst lush landscaping, offers a serene respite from the city. Guests can also unwind on

Eating Out he Four Seasons, Mumbai is the right stopover for gastronomic delights as its three restaurants; Prato, Pool Deck, San-Qi provides an out of the world experience in terms of delicacies and ambience. Prato brings Italian cuisine and Mediterranean flair to the Hotel. High ceilings and floor-to-ceiling windows on two sides of the restaurant flood the interior with light, creating a bright, comfortable setting for

business meetings and social occasions. In the evening, candles and lanterns transform Prato. Following a Bellini aperitif or glass of Prosecco at the bar, savour modern Italian dishes with ingredients imported from Italy, as well as seasonal Ă la carte and vegetarian options. Lunch features an Ă la carte menu

chaises longues beside the relaxation pool near the open-air pool deck, where light snacks and beverages are served. For added convenience, the pool is equipped with telephones and wireless Internet access. The two-storey Spa encompasses the third and fourth floors of the Hotel and includes a hair salon by Italian stylist Rossano Ferretti. On the third floor, the spa reception area welcomes guests to the Spa. The personal trainer provides knowledge and support to develop a comprehensive plan to attain and sustain physical fitness.

Wellness and Spa and a daily set menu, while breakfast offers an extensive international selection comprising continental, American, Indian and Japanese favourites. Pool Deck, the openair pool deck offers al fresco breakfast for early risers and a refreshing relief from Mumbai's buzz throughout the day. Salads and gourmet sandwiches, a selection of chilled seafood and other light snacks, accompanied by delicious fruit drinks and cocktails are the other delights here. San-Qi meaning the three energies, pulsates with the spirit of new Asia, offers the most popular cuisines of the East - Japanese, Chinese and Indian. Sleek and contemporary, with accents of glass and natural woods, this food theatre/restaurant features the best of Asian dining, accompanied by a hip wine bar, trendy world music and new Indian jazz, mixed by the Hotel's resident DJ. The restaurant features tandoor kitchens, a wok station and an eight-seat Chef's Table. The upper level is dedicated to Japanese cuisine and is complete with sushi bar, teppanyaki table and robata grill. Four private dining rooms are available for exclusive events.

he Spa at Four Seasons Hotel Mumbai is getting renowned as one among the best in the business capital of India. With eight treatment rooms, including two spacious suites - Natrajasana and Vajrasana - that function as private spas, allowing for hours of uninterrupted escapism. It gives an experience of modern ayurvedic-inspired therapies in a setting of contemporary sophistication. The regenerative power of aromatic and medicinal herbs, spices and flowers imbued with the healing touch of skilful therapists revitalises the senses through a combination of aquatherapy rituals in the Vitality Lounge. The Vitality Lounge uses a combination of heatgenerating and cooling therapies to release tension, expel toxins, stimulate blood circulation, increase lymphatic flow and kickstart the immune system - a combination of benefits that encourages overall healing and wellness.

ASIAN TRAVELLER JANUARY 2009

DESTINATION

Be the First to Discover

o Chang Marine National Park is new and virtually unknown to the outside world. Few people know of its secret wonders. Some even boldly call it "the last paradise islands in Southeast Asia". A paradise it is, Ko Chang Marine National Park has been a heaven to the people who need to replenish their mind and energy, to recharge. Ko Chang is the largest of the 52-island Ko Chang Marine National Park, all of which are untouched by modernization with their natural resources kept intact. Thus, qualifying the park as a dream escape, a true hideaway, far from the bustling city life. The coastlines of the Ko Chang Marine National Park are a spectacular work of nature's art and there are beautiful beaches, coves and bays around the islands. Ko Chang Marine National Park is indeed a wonderland of fertile virgin rainforests, untracked jungles, high peaks, breathtaking waterfalls, beautiful beaches, spectacular coastlines, colorful coral reefs, clear blue sea of warm waters, idyllic

tioned buses from the Eastern Bus Terminal at Ekkamai, on Sukhumvit Road, which is conveniently serviced by the BTS Skytrain. From the Trat bus terminal, take a cab or minibus to the ferry at Laem Ngop. It takes approximately 4 hours by road plus another 30 to 45 minutes by boat or ferry. You also can go there by taxi and private car or motorbike. Ferries leave from one of three piers every 30 minutes from seven in the morning to seven in the evening. Tourist spots and activities in Ko Chang Than Mayom Waterfall, Khlong Nonsi Waterfall, Khlong Nung Waterfall. Khlong Son Bay, Khlong Plu Waterfall, Ko Chang Noi and Leam Chang Noi, Tri Phet Waterfall, Khlong Phrao Beach, White Sand Beach, Bang Bao Fishery Village, Long Sand Beach, Kai Bae Beach are some of the main tourist spots in Ko Chang. Visitors to Ko Chang go there mainly for its magnificent beaches. One can relax sipping a cool drink while getting a massage. For the

There are a series of scenic waterfalls across the island. On the east coast the Nam Tok Mayom waterfall has three waterfalls and can be climbed in under an hour. There are plunge pools to cool yourself off after the trek to the falls. Nightlife Besides being one of the most idyllic islands in Thailand, Ko Chang also caters for those into music and dance. The nightlife on Ko Chang ranges from pubs, where live music, sports on big TV screens is on offer, to wild and raunchy beach bars. The best place for nightlife is the mini-capital, White Sand Beach. Nightlife in White Sand Beach is probably the "most happening" of all the beaches on Ko Chang. Popular beach bars like Oodie's Place and Sabay Bar offer lively nightlife and great live music. Towards the southern end of the road, just before going up the hill to Khlong Phrao Beach, there is a small

islands, fascinating wildlife and an abundance of healthy marine life. All waiting to be discovered. Getting There Ko Chang is only 330 kilometers east of Bangkok. Bangkok Airways flies from Bangkok, Phuket and Ko Samui to a new airport at Trat, just 15 minutes from the ferry terminal. There are flights out of Bangkok which takes about 45 minutes. If you choose to go by bus, you can get first or secondclass and VIP air-condi-

best experience, stay in one of the many luxury resorts right on the beach, or a quiet bungalow that are renowned for personalized service. The best dive sites are the seamounts off the southern coast to the island of Ko Kut, the best site being at Ko Wai where there are intensely colourful coral reefs, with depths of five to 18 metres. There is no snorkelling to speak of in Ko Chang itself, but the outer islands can easily be reached by boat.

cluster of beer bars known as 'Little Pattaya'. You can watch a live football matches or simply just enjoying the atmosphere. Nightlife in Khlong Phrao Beach includes cafes and bars that have a pool tables, board games, big screen TV, etc. Kai Bae beach and Lonely Beach also have sort of fun and exciting nocturnal escapades can be reveled in these areas. Nightlife at the Lonely Beach seems to cater mostly to the younger and independent crowds.

http://amazingthailand.co.in/explore_thailand/ko_chang.htm

JANUARY 2009 ASIAN TRAVELLER

Photo Courtesy: Thailand Tourism

Ko Chang

LUXURY

Under the Sea, I will marry Thee... Marriages may be made in heaven but in the Philippines, one can even marry under the sea. eard about medieval 'marriage of the sea' custom in Venice or read Jane Alison's novel by the same name? Here is an opportunity to go a step further and have a 'marriage under the sea' in the Philippines. The Philippines, the archipelago spanning three seas, may be the best destination to 'dive into a relationship'. A bouncy world of stunning waterscapes, the Philippines offers a unique opportunity for underwater nuptials. Take the plunge of your life, and get married in traditional Filipino style, on the beach or five meters below the undulating surface. Experience undersea nuptials at Plantation Bay Resort and Spa, Marigondon, Mactan Island at Cebu. Plantation Bay Resorts and Spa is among the top 25 resorts in Asia, according to Conde Nast Traveller - the most prestigious travel magazine of the world. It was ranked 16th among the 25 top Asian resorts at the 21st Annual Readers' Choice Awards 2008. Just imagine your wedding ceremony taking place at a well decorated table at a sandy spot on the sea floor. There is little to worry about even if the couple knows nothing about diving. The diving centre will train and certify the couple-to-be within a few days. Before taking the plunge, the bridegroom will have to be equipped with all the necessary scuba gear. Likewise, the bride with flowers on her hair will have to tread the water. The groom would wait anxiously a few meters away before the much-awaited descent begins. What can be the better way of binding

yourselves together in natural surroundings? Imagine how spectacularly photo perfect the scene would be? Multi-coloured shoals of fish, the rhythmic sway of water and the swirl of the current will be witness to this unique wedding. All it takes is 30 minutes to a turn the most significant page of your life. The newlyweds can then return to the bright sunshine and sandy beaches. They can change into their wedding attire for a picnic-style reception. Undersea wedding is one of the many wedding choices available to tourists in the Philippines. The Department of Tourism, the Philippines, is projecting the archipelago as a premium wedding destination led by Cebu as the 'wedding capital.' Those wishing to wed in the Philippines need to apply for Philippine marriage license. www.gov.ph/faqs/marriage.asp

Rajasthan Rolls Out Second Palace on Wheels he second luxury tourist train, 'Royal Rajasthan on Wheels', jointly launched by Rajasthan Tourism Development Corporation (RTDC) and Indian Railways will be flagged off from Safdarjung Railway Station, New Delhi on 11th January 2009 in the presence of Union Minister for Tourism Ambika Soni, the Chief Minister of Rajasthan, Ashok Gehlot, the Minister of State for Railways, Naranbhai J. Rathwa and other dignitaries. The new luxury tourist train, 'Royal Rajasthan on Wheels',

will follow the same itinerary as that of Palace on Wheels which starts from the national capital Delhi and returns after covering Jaipur, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Sawai, Madhopur, Chiitogarh, Udaipur, Bharatpur and Agra. The new luxury tourist train will be an advanced version of Palace on Wheels as huge efforts has been made to take care of many of the suggestions made by the tourists over the years as well as by making use of the experience gained over the years.

ASIAN TRAVELLER JANUARY 2009

AVIATION

AAI Receives 'Miniratna Category-I' Powers Paramount Airways to Enter North Paramount Airways plans to become a national player by yearend by foraying into the Northern region. M Thiagarajan, Managing Director, Paramount Airways M Thiagarajan stated, "We expect to saturate the entire Western region by mid-2009 and then foray into the Northern market. Paramount Airways, an allBusiness-class airline, enjoys market leadership in the South with 27 per cent market share. Despite the recession our market share for December 2008 grew by about two per cent."

India Tourism Plans Ad Campaign With the aim of getting the flyers back in air the Indian Ministry of Civil Aviation is planning a multicrore advertising campaign, which is estimated to cost as much as Rs 20 crore. The ad campaign is being planned in the backdrop of a global meltdown and a general downturn in the aviation industry. The advertisements will be released through the Directorate of Advertising and Visual Publicity, another arm of the Government, so that the publicity costs will be lower.

Jet Slashes Domestic Fares Jet Airways and Kingfisher Airlines has announced reduction in fares following the steep fall in Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF) prices. While Jet Airways said that it was reducing its fares ranging from 15-40 per cent across most of the domestic sectors effective from January 1, 2009, Kingfisher Airlines said that it will reduce its fares across its. The decision was taken due to Civil Aviation Minister Praful Patel repeatedly asking airlines to pass on the benefit of the reduced ATF prices to passengers.

JANUARY 2009 ASIAN TRAVELLER

he Government of India has inducted four non-officio Directors to the Board of Airports Authority of India and with this restructuring AAI can now exercise its Miniratna Powers which was already been accorded to it last month. The non-official Directors include Deepak Parekh, CEO and Executive Chairman, Housing Development Finance Corporation, Hafeez Contractor, renowned Architect, Sajjan Jindal, Industrialist and Arun Bongirwar, former Chief Secretary of Maharashtra. Further Modernisation of Small Airports in India 13 more airports have been taken up for

upgradation by Airports Authority of India along with the ongoing upgradation and modernisation of 35 Nonmetro Airports which is to be completed by 2009-2010. Praful Patel, India Minister

for Civil Aviation said that AAI proposes to spend an amount of Rs.12434.34 crores, during the 11th Five Year Plan for development of airport infrastructure in the country which includes

Metro airports as well as non-metro airports. With the status of Mini Ratna Category-I and appointment of independent Directors on its Board, AAI can exercise its powers of autonomy in terms of capital intensive projects and form the joint ventures with the companies to develop Greenfield airports. The projects costing up to INR500 crores could be now approved by the Board of AAI itself. An expenditure of Rs. 6443.53 crore has been proposed for development of Non-metro airports whereas an expenditure of Rs. 5990.81 crore has been proposed for development of Metro and other private/ Greenfield airports.

Singapore Airlines Introduces Promotional Offer to Popular Destinations ingapore Airlines yesterday announced special New Year promotional offer to popular destinations this season. The new scheme offers customers to travel to select destinations as Singapore for Rs 16,830, South East Asia (Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Bangkok, Denpasar, Langkawi and Kuching) for Rs 23,980 and Australia (Perth, Brisbane, Adelaide, Sydney, Melbourne) for Rs 41,350, said a release issued in New Delhi. The bookings for this offer can be made till January 15, 2009 and will be valid for travel from today to March 31, 2009 for Singapore and South-East Asia and from February 1, 2009 to June 30, 2009 for destinations in Australia. The customers can travel to these destinations via the Airline's Indian gateways - New Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Chennai, Hyderabad, Kolkata and Ahmedabad, the release added.

India, Malaysia Revises Air Services Agreement elegations representing the Governments of India and Malaysia met in New Delhi to discuss and revise air services between the two countries. The two countries have agreed that the designated airlines of each country shall be entitled to

operate 20,410 seats per week in each direction on the routes specified in the respective Route Schedule with effect from Summer 2009, which include 5,620 to Delhi, 3,770 to Mumbai, 4,740 to Chennai, 1,000 to Kolkata, 2,730 to Bangalore, 2,550 to Hyderabad.

Other agreements include permission for designated airlines of Malaysia to utilize the unutilized entitlements at Kolkata for operations to/from Mumbai, - no rights have been increased but India has allowed adjustment within the overall capacity to allow a second airline to operate.

NEWSLINE

Groundservices.ca Appoints AVIAREPS as GSA in India roundservices.ca a reputed and leading global online travel service & distribution solution company has appointed AVIAREPS as their General Sales Agent in India. As part of the mandate AVIAREPS will be responsible for all sales marketing and PR activities in India on behalf of Groundservices.ca and Abreub2b.com. Groundservices.ca has introduced the revolutionary concept of 'Assist Cards' especially designed for Indian tourists. Assist Card will help travellers have a hassle free travel experience, with travel assistance for tourist in over 170 countries. Keeping in mind various needs of different tourists Groundservices.ca have designed

separate 'Assist Cards' - Premium card, Euro Classic Card, Classic card and Multitrip Card. In case of any emergency, tourists have to just call a nearest Alarm centre and Assist cards will assist them wherever they are 24x7. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Through this appointment we further reach out and provided value to the outbound segment. The requirement of travel assistance is growing. With our rich experience we look forward to doing great work with Groundservices.ca. Our prime task will be helping tour operators and travel agents sell Assist Card to their outbound travellers, and also using the online hotel booking services offered by Groundservices and Abreub2bâ&#x20AC;?, says Joseph Fernandes General Manager, Aviareps India.

New Year at Savera Hotels, Chennai

KTDC Made Company erala Tourism Development Corporation, the state corporation running hotels and resorts has been transformed to a company; Kerala Hotels and Resorts Ltd. The decision was taken a cabinet meeting of the Kerala government. The move was to avoid confusion of the clients as the name does not suit a hotel and resort chain and many others took advantage of it, according to a release. The company will be retained by the Government will serve better in terms of marketing.

IRCTC, Cox & Kings launch

Luxury Train Co he Indian Railways Catering and Tourism Corporation and Cox and Kings India Ltd. had set up a company called the Royale Indian Rail Tours Ltd., to manage and operate the first pan-India luxury tourist train, scheduled to start operations in the third quarter of 2009. The train will carry nearly 100 passengers in 15 passenger coaches and will have two bars and two restaurants. It will have an ultra modern kitchen and a boutique. Of the two seven night itineraries planned for the train the first is the Princely India Tour starting from Mumbai to Delhi via Ahmedabad, Udaipur, Jodhpur, Jaisalmer, Jaipur. The second is the Classical India tour through Delhi-Agra-Gwalior-Khajuraho-Varanasi and Patna.

TTDC to Upgrade 20 Loss Making Hotels amil Nadu Tourism Development Corporation (TTDC) plans to improve profitability by upgrading its hotels and restaurants. About 20 loss-making hotels have been franchised for over a period of 10 to 15 years. The state has approved the proposal of franchising 30 hotels and seven restaurants. Small hotels with five rooms are franchised for 10 years and bigger ones for 15 years. TTDC is allocating Rs 200 crore for development of tourism every year and has spent about Rs three crore this year for upgradation of hotels. TTDC has three main operations, namely hotels, transport and fairs. The department has 54 hotels and 11 restaurants under its control.

New Year Celebrations at Le Meridien, Chennai

JANUARY 2009 ASIAN TRAVELLER

KERALA TRAVELLER

Dr. V. Venu IAS Secretary, Kerala Tourism

t the very outset, let me wish you a happy 2009! I hope the New Year will be better and brighter than ever before. For Kerala Tourism, 2008 was truly an eventful year with many highs as well as a few lows. The highlight of the year was of course, the 'Responsible' journey that Kerala Tourism initiated. However, despite the global slowdown, the year ended on an optimistic note with the Kochi Stopover of Volvo Ocean Race

turning out to be one of the most spectacular events Kerala has ever seen. The Race Village at Willingdon Island that hosted cultural shows, exhibitions etc. was the focus of the 14-day stopover, which saw nearly a million visitors. Another landmark event was 'Ente Naadu' aimed at the active participation of Non-Resident Keralites in the tourism development of the State. 542 delegates from 42 countries participated in the Meet and 60 projects were

submitted and discussed for future investment. The Meet is envisaged to bring in an investment of about Rs. 1000 crore. The second edition of Utsavam, Kerala Tourism's annual cultural extravaganza also got off to a flying start last month. A mammoth effort to revive and sustain art forms that are vanishing and to reenergize unsung artistes, Utsavam will open up Kerala's rich wealth of art to the world through 805 performances to be staged at 23 venues across the State.

Meanwhile, in the wake of the economic downturn, a working group has been formulated by Kerala Tourism in association with the trade. It has been decided that more stress will be laid on domestic marketing with special focus on Tier II cities. In addition to this, the new year will also be celebrated as 'Visit Kerala 2009' with special packages ensuring value addition and a reduction in tax rates - a move that will definitely help in boosting tourism.

NRKs to Partner in Tourism Growth of Kerala he two-day event 'Ente Nadu' held in Kochi was an earnest effort by Kerala Tourism to join hands with the sizeable number of non-resident Keralites for giving a new direction and added growth to the tourism sector. The twoday meet held in Kochi had about 200 odd projects that came up for consideration, of which 60 were identified worth to pursuing, paving way for a total investment to the tune of Rs.10000 million in the tourism sector of Kerala. The Minister for Tourism, Kodiyeri Balakrishnan in his inaugural address urged the non-resident Keralites to take an active role in the growth and development of tourism in Kerala. Dr. Venu, V. IAS, Secretary Kerala Tourism, said that campaigns would be launched in the international level and also in other states of India. According to T. K. Manzoor, Managing Director, Tourist Resorts (Kerala) Limited, the ongoing initiatives of Kerala Tourism with the non-resident Keralites could reach new

heights in co-operation, if they come forward to form companies to promote various tourism related projects. Such an initiative would invite the whole-hearted support of the government. They can also play an important role in tourism infrastructure development in Kerala.

Single Window System Mooted for Tourism Projects o ensure the speedy implementation of various tourism related projects, Kerala Tourism will put into place a single window system with the

Tourism Director as the nodal officer. This was one of the major announcements made at 'Ente Naadu' - the meeting of Non Resident Keralites recently held in Kochi. The Minister said that many investors had approached the state with big projects for the tourism sector. A high-level committee headed by the Chief Minister will look into the issues. To sort out

certain roadblocks, a committee headed by Chief Secretary has also been appointed. The committee will also evaluate the progress of various tourism related projects every three months. "The government will provide support to the plans of NRKs to float a company to implement various tourism projects. Since land acquisition proceedings often run into rough weather, the land owners can float a company and utilize their land for tourism projects," said the Minister. The state government has decided to rename Tourists Resorts Kerala Ltd. (TRKL) as Tourism

Infrastructure Development Corporation (TIDC) and an advisory committee with participation of private investors will be constituted at the state level. For the Bekal Tourism project, about 250 acres of land has been acquired and auctioned and six big budget hotels will be constructed. Within a year, two hotels will be ready and within three years Bekal will be an international tourism destination. The NRK meeting also highlighted the need to improve basic infrastructure facilities in the state. NRKs from 42 countries participated in the meeting. ASIAN TRAVELLER JANUARY 2009

KERALA TRAVELLER

Kerala Plans 'Visit Kerala Year 2009' s part of its plans to attract visitors, especially from other states in India, Kerala Tourism plans a year-long umbrella package called 'Visit Kerala Year 2009' from January 2009. This was disclosed by Kodiyeri Balakrishnan, Minister for Tourism, Kerala while addressing the meeting of Non-Resident Keralities (NRK) 'Ente Naadu' in Kochi. The'Visit Kerala Year 2009' will be focused on tier-II cities. Stressing on the need to adopt new marketing techniques to overcome the impact of

Kerala Tourism Launches ORS timely one and a new-year gift, the Online Reservation System (ORS) recently introduced by Kerala Tourism is expected to find a large user base, especially single property owners in the hospitality sector of Kerala. Once again, the facility has been the outcome of Kerala Tourism's successful ongoing partnership with the private sector. ORS would benefit hoteliers with a small inventory and with limited IT support. Hotels, M. Sivasankar Grihastalies, Director, Kerala Tourism houseboats, homestays and the like would find ORS an effective online resource, which in turn would bolster their business. According to M. Sivasankar, Director, Kerala Tourism, the new facility would reduce operational costs, increase the visibility of properties and their availability and would minimize delays and errors during manual entering of data. Besides, through ORS, Kerala Tourism is providing the users a free-of-cost service to market their property worldwide through its official website. All that users need to pay is a fixed nominal amount to the agency as service charge depending on the actual bookings done through the system.

JANUARY 2009 ASIAN TRAVELLER

the meltdown and Mumbai attacks, KTDC will prepare brochures and CDs in local languages of countries from where many visitors come to the state. In other states also, brochures and CDs will be prepared and distributed. KTDC will also participate in trade fairs held in different states next year. "About 5.5 lakh foreign tourists visited the state last year but there were few visitors from the Middle East. Tourism Fairs will be held in Gulf countries to promote the state's tourism," said the Minister.

GKSF Exceeds Expectations rand Kerala Shopping Festival 2009, the second edition of event highlighting the destination's shopping potential has been a success story and has bettered its first year records. The attractive discounts, gifts and the bumper prizes has pulled the crowds to the shops bearing the GKSF tags and more than 15 lakh prize coupons were issued compared to 8.6 lakh last year. About 2,300 shops, restaurants and other business establishments took part in the event. The south zone comprising of the southern districts topped the sales followed by the north and central zone. Thiruvananthapuram, the capital city marked the highest numbers in sales follwed by Kollam and Alappuzha collectively distributing of 4.5 lakh coupons by the end of the fourth week. "We have issued over 15 lakh prize coupons to the shops and other establishments that are participating in the GKSF compared to 8.6 lakh coupons in the first edition. This shows the overwhelming response from the shoppers," says GKSF Director, K.N. Satheesh. Taking into account retail sales and the number of shops participating in the GKSF, Thiruvananthapuram district is on top followed by Kannur and Thrissur. The response from the trade and shoppers in Ernakulam to the GKSF this year has been lukewarm. Over 200 service cooperative banks came forward and issued coupons for clients who came for various services like opening bank account," he added. Of the 2,300 shops, 194 were in

the general category that issued coupon for sales of Rs.1,000. The highest number of 600 shops was in the jewellery section, 435 in textiles; and 300 in electronic and home appliances. As many as 85 supermarkets, 57 furniture showrooms, 21 marble/ granite dealers and 22 automobile dealers enrolled for the GKSF. "We have found that the sales volume in the shops that enrolled for the GKSF had gone up," he said. Tourists from around the world are being lured to the State, not only for the wide variety of consumer durables available but also for the events that take place K.N. Satheesh during the festival Director, GKSF period. The Tribal Fest in Wayanad; Cashew Fest in Kollam; Coir Fest in Alappuzha; Spice mela in Idukki; Handloom Expo in Kannur; Malabar 'Craftmela' in Malappuram; and the Khadi Fest and the Thiruvananthapuram Book Fair were a success. A 24-hour call centre at Ernakulam for addressing shoppers' grievances; online facility between district managers; and single window system for issuing prize coupons to shops were features of the second edition. As many as 40 kg of gold is being given as prize to the shoppers, which is distributed through banks. Rs.2 crore is given as prizes through scratch-and-win cards. The bumper prize is 5 kg gold and half-a-kg gold to nine persons. The grand finale of the GKSF will be on January 31 in Kottayam.

I N D U S T RY

WINDOWS

VARIETY

Amadeus, the leading provider of technology to the travel and tourism industry, has announced David V. Jones as its new President & CEO

Travel Tours Pvt Ltd has appointed Mohan NSN as General ManagerAndhra Pradesh, India

ADNEC and Starwood Hotels and Resorts has appointed Stephan Vanden Auweele as the General Manager of the first Aloft hotel in the Middle East

Sanjay Kirpal has been appointed Senior General Manager Operations, WelcomHeritage at New Delhi, India

Unmesh VS has joined Travancore Court, Ernakulam, Kerala, India as Front Office Manager

Asish Nair has joined The LaLiT Resort & Spa, Bekal, Kerala, India as the Head of Sales

1. Prefixes like 'hemi' (Greek), 'demi' (French), and 'semi' (Latin) all mean 'half'. However they all appear together in one single word. Which is that? 2. Who is an internaut? ducks 3. What is a group of ducks called? 4. Which is the only flag other than US flag to fly over the White House? 5. Who was the first human to sleep in space (not to travel, which was Yuri Gagarin) ? 6. What was Socrates by trade? 7. Who or what is Kung Fu Tzu? 8. How was Coca-Cola sold in the beginning when it was launched in 1894?

walrus

9. What does the word Socrates 'walrus' literally mean? 10. Blood pressure is always expressed in mm/ Hg. While mm is millimeter, what is Hg? Compiled by DEEKAY

Send in your answers to info@mediastepsindia.com with TYKC16 in the the subject line. Answers should reach us before the 30th of this month.

JANUARY 2009 Holiday World Dublin, Dublin, Ireland

January 23-25

Holiday Expo, Coimbatore

January 24-26

Austrian and Central European Travel Business (ACTB), Austria

January 25-27

FITUR Madrid

January 30 - February 03

India Travel Mart, Ahmedabad, Gujarat

January 30 - February 01

TYKC 15 - Winner

FEBRUARY 2009 Destination London, England

February 5-8

TTF OTM, Mumbai

February 7-9

TTF OTM, New Delhi

February 12-14

AIME, Australia

February 17-18

Taj Mahotsav, Agra, India

February 18-27

BIT Milan

February 19-22

IITM, Cochin

February 20-22

India Travel Mart, Chandigarh, Hariyana

February 20-22

MARCH 2009 Holiday Expo, Vadodara ITB BERLIN, Berlin, Germany

JANUARY 2009 ASIAN TRAVELLER

Answers of TYKC - 15 1. 'Kroke' means a pebble and 'drilos' means a worm in Greek. The reptile is called a 'pebble worm' for its fondness of basking on shingles, 2. Lakshmi, 3. James T. Adams ( 1931), 4. From Cambridge slang for a long-time friend (Greek 'chronos' - time), 5. The rail tunnel beneath English Channel linking England and France opened in 1994 (from Channel + Tunnel), 6. An animal that mainly feeds on tree leaves like a koala bear, 7. The first three longest rivers of Scotland, 8. 'Veritas' (Latin for truth), 9. Simultaneous broadcast of a program on radio & TV, 10. Australia

March 1 - 3 March 11-15

S. Rajeendra Kumar Triplicane, Chennai Tamilnadu, India

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 MĂŠridien 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