Asian Traveller July 2012 by Asian Traveller

Incredible India

in. this issue . Vol.5 No. 10 JULY 2012

6. Kerala makes a smart move to mobiles, to promote tourism 8. Western Ghats gets heritage tag 10. Tamil Nadu to offer customised tours 14. Down Under gets down to luring Indians

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15. Bangkok turns hot for international travellers 17. Tourism Flanders casts an attractive web, for Indians 28. Take a pizza break, at Leela Kovalam 33. SpiceJet eyes new foreign, domestic routes GUEST COLUMN

AS I TRAVEL

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Elizabeth Ziemba

V Duraikkannan

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P 30 Cover: Meenakshi Temple, Madurai Photo Courtesy: Tamil Nadu Tourism

ASIAN TRAVELLER | JULY 2012

Incredible India

EDITOR’S NOTE

hat if a tourist destination lacks quality hotels? There is no doubt, travellers will hesitate to plan a trip to such a place. If the recent trend is anything to go by, for today’s tourists, travelling is not all about sightseeing. Equally important is a memorable stay at a luxury hotel or resort, which offers them a number of dining options, indoor and outdoor recreational facilities, fitness centres, and wellness services. If one is travelling for business needs, s/he may have a different set of requirements, including easy internet access, well-equipped conference halls, etc. Gone are the days hotels were regarded as just a place for a little refreshment, or to stay a night or two. On the other hand, demand is shooting up for the hotels that offer travellers real mood of the destination it is located in and help them enhance the travelling experience. The better the accommodation and dining options a tourist spot provides, the more the location stands a chance to draw travellers in big numbers. And, there is no denying the fact that the growth of the tourism industry of a country is very much dependent on its hospitality sector. Quality hotel infrastructure alone won’t make travellers happy. They are also very much particular about having the finest services and the best culinary experience. To meet these needs, hotels need to employ skilled/ trained manpower. The quality of service usually deteriorates in the absence of a qualified workforce. Hence, it is important to churn out skilled manpower in proportion to the growing demand. Any imbalance would surely cost both tourism industry and hospitality sector dearly. And, as far as tourism industry is concerned, any nation that takes appropriate steps to address the issue of skilled manpower in hospitality sector will have an edge over other countries. Now, you can see what is working in favour of India. As early as 2009, India’s tourism ministry had sensed the urgency to develop skill development programme and sprang into action with Hunar Se Rozgar, an initiative aimed at training youths, especially those belong to backward communities, in food and beverage services, and food production. The training was, of course, provided free of cost. It has so far trained around 2351 youths under this initiative, all of who now work with prestigious hotels in the country, and it plans to impart training to more than 5000 candidates in 2012-13. The success of the courses introduced so far is likely to prompt the ministry to offer training in other areas, including front office, security, driving and retail marketing. As long as it concentrates on imparting quality training, it will have a reason to smile.

T ASIAN TRAVELLER | JULY 2012

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KERALA TRAVELLER

Kerala makes a smart move to mobiles, to promote tourism

n yet another technologydriven path-breaking initiative, Kerala Tourism has launched mobile-based services and IT-enabled projects such as a WAP site, mobile WAP guide, mobile applications for IOS and Android, and bluetooth kiosks, to enhance the travel experience of domestic and foreign visitors to the state by providing vital information on tourist destinations within it and the products and services on offer in those locations. The new technology platforms, among other things, will help travellers to explore and experience God’s own country, without the help of tourist guides. The state’s move to embrace mobile platforms comes in the wake of a growing demand for smart phones among mobile phone users, worldwide. Last year, smart phones constituted around 32 per cent of total shipment of mobile phones. “Kerala Tourism is the first in the country to launch

mobile-based services in the tourism industry, enabling travellers to have necessary information at their fingertips. It will surely benefit the tourists to the state, as it will make their stay more pleasant and help them have a unique travelling experience,” smiles, A P Anil Kumar, Tourism Minister, Kerala, who launched the new set of mobile-based services at a function held in Trivandrum, recently. While the WAP site will provide all facilities currently available on the Kerala Tourism website,

the WAP guide will replace the conventional tourist guides and help the tourists save money. The mobile applications are compatible with IOS and Android phones, the most sought-after mobile operating systems, and using them a traveller can easily get a clear picture of what’s near/ around him/her. Besides, one will also receive tourism updates on the phone, in line with the information on the tourism website. “Using the applications, the smart phone will help one to identify a location and get an idea of various

Malabar gets a tourism boost

ourism development activities in the Malabar region of South Indian state Kerala has got a shot in the arm with the centre government sanctioning Rs 5 crore for

the KakkayamPeruvannamuzhi tourism project in Calicut district. Kakkayam, situated about 50 kilometres from the Calicut town, is a picturesque trekking site. The place is also known for its dam, named after the location. Peruvannamuzhi, located about 60 kilometres from the town, is one of the most beautiful tourist destinations in the district, with an artificial lake reservoir, a

dam, a crocodile farm, and a beautiful garden built in memory of freedom fighters of the region. As per the available information, Rs 2.19 crore has been earmarked for Kakkayam dam site for the construction of four boat jetties, a cafeteria, a pavilion, toilet block and view towers, while Rs 2.66 crore will be spent at Peruvannamuzhi for developing almost same facilities. The project also envisages establishment of a spice garden, amphitheatre and a children’s area.

tourist attractions in and around it. Also, we have included features like ‘places of interest’ and ‘tourist guide’ to offer travellers a picture of interesting spots within the state. We are also working on to include a new feature - a travel plan for tourists, based on seasons, locations and interests,” says, Rani George, Director, Kerala Tourism. When it comes to bluetooth kiosks, they will be set up at places like international airports in the state. With facilities on par with international standards, the bluetooth kiosks are expected to provide comprehensive, real-time information about Kerala and its tourism offerings to the tourists. Kerala Tourism, a five-time winner of national tourism award for the application of IT, has in its basket an array of innovative IT-based products. Its website gets 7000-8000 visits a day and more than 2.5 million hits a year. Kerala Tourism is also active on social media platforms like YouTube, facebook and twitter. At the launching ceremony, KTDC Chairman Vijayan Thomas, KTM President Riaz Ahmed and Confederation of Kerala Tourism Industry (CKTI) President E M Najeeb were present.

ASIAN TRAVELLER | JULY 2012

NEWSLINE

Western Ghats gets heritage tag

A wellness push

A Photo: Samson CJ

estern Ghats, a mountain range along the western side of India, has at last found its distinguished place in the list of World Heritage Sites of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO). It was nothing but a successful culmination of the efforts India has made over the last six years to convince members of the World Heritage Committee the merit of the proposal it made to include the Western Ghats on India’s tentative list of natural properties, to be inscribed on the World Heritage list. The Ghats is also recognised as one of the eight hottest hotspots of biological diversity in the world. This mountain range, which extends over 1600

kilometres, begins at the border of Gujarat and Maharashtra, and runs through the states of Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Kerala and ends at Kanyakumari. Some of the best hill stations and wildlife sanctuaries of India are located here. The Ghats was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site at the 36th session of the World Heritage Committee panel held at St Petersburg in Russia, on July 1, 2012. The listing comprises 39 sites along the Western Ghats. Of this, 20 heritage spots are located in Kerala, including the forests spread along Chinnar, Thekkady, Eravikulam, Silent Valley, Attapadi, Pulmedu, Manavan Chola, Pushpagiri and Kaalikavu.

fter projecting India as a wellness tourism destination, Union Tourism Ministry, Government of India, has embarked on accreditation of wellness centres, to ensure quality services to travellers. National Accreditation Board for Hospital and Healthcare Providers (NABH) has developed guidelines for accreditation and moves are now on, to encourage wellness centres to adopt accreditations. “India has always been known for its rich heritage of wellness traditions and it has a lot to offer to the wellness seekers. We have already highlighted the Indian system of healing and yoga in the Incredible India campaigns. The accreditation system was introduced to further grow the wellness tourism in the country, as it will act as a benchmark of quality, erasing any doubt about the standard of products and services offered by the wellness centres,” says, Subodh Kant Sahay, Union Tourism Minister, Government of India.

India sees robust growth in foreign tourist arrivals

ndia has managed to draw a handsome number of foreign travellers to the country in the first six months of 2012, despite the troubled economic times that has forced a good number of foreign travellers to either shed or postpone their travel plans. As per the available information, foreign tourist arrivals to the country in the first half of the current year

Photo: indolinkenglish.files.wordpress.com

has grown by 7.4 per cent to 32.37 lakh, from 30.15 lakh in the comparable period, last year. The growth in arrivals has helped the country to register a 24.4 growth in foreign exchange earnings to Rs 43760 crore, in the first half of 2012. In the first six months of 2011, India could earn only Rs 35163 crore in foreign exchange earnings. ASIAN TRAVELLER | JULY 2012

NEWSLINE

India calls on SARRC nations to stay united to grow tourism

t the recently concluded SAARC Tour Operators Conclave in New Delhi, India has called on SAARC countries to explore the ways and means for more exchange of tourists among them and realise the immense growth potential the region holds, which till date has not been fully utilised. “If it could be fully utilised in all possible ways, the SAARC region has the potential to steer the world economy,” says, Subodh Kant Sahay, Union Tourism Minister, Government of India, who inaugurated the conclave. Most SAARC nations seem to have already realised the growth potential at individual level, but what seems to be lacking is a concentrated effort.

“We must motivate each SAARC country in such a way that tourism becomes the focus of economic and political agenda,” Sahay urges. The cultural diversity of the SAARC region is unique, and the combination of scenic landscapes, natural beauty, and ethnic multiplicity add to its international tourism appeal. About 45 leading tour operators from India,

Maldives, Afghanistan, Bhutan, Nepal, Bangladesh and Pakistan participated in the conclave that focused on various strategies to promote tourist destinations and products in the SAARC region. India will also invite tour operators and scholars from the SARRC region to participate in the International Buddhist Conclave to be held in Varanasi, from September

29-30, 2012. The conclave is being held with a view to showcase the rich ancient Buddhist heritage to the international travel trade. SAARC is an important source market for India, in the same way as India is a major market for them. More than 10 lakh tourists from the SAARC region visited India in 2011, up from around 9.98 lakh arrivals in the previous year.

Himachal designs more religious tourism products

Photo: flixya.com

n a bid to provide more options for religious tourists to the state, Himachal Pradesh is all set to develop Aadi Himani Chamunda Dham in Kangra district as a religious tourism destination. The government’s plan seems to be to develop it on the lines of Vaishno Devi and Amar

ASIAN TRAVELLER | JULY 2012

Nath Shrines. The to enjoy the move is an attempt fascinating natural to draw tourists to beauty of snowthe Shakti Peeth to clad mountains visit the Aadi Himani during the winters. Chamunda Temple, The government which is situated is also expected in the Dhauladhar to take care of mountain range. Prem Kumar Dhumal basic amenities “We are exploring like drinking all possibilities to water, electricity and connect both the places with accommodation facilities at ropeway. To this effect, the spot. we have even commenced a survey. Also, efforts are being made to launch heli taxi services to Himani Chamunda Dham,” says, Prem Kumar Dhumal, Chief Minister, Himachal Pradesh. Heli taxi service was introduced in the state last year, to boost adventure tourism and help the highend tourists to the state

Himachal Pradesh has taken up tourism development works in Kangra district, with the assistance of Asian Development Bank. “We are spending Rs 15 crore on tourism projects like renovation of Masrur Temple, construction of information centre in Pong Dam and parking and other tourism facilities across Kangra,” informs, Dhumal.

Photo: devbhoomihimachal.com

NEWSLINE

India, Mauritius explore ways to boost tourism ties

s part of strengthening tourism ties, India and Mauritius are likely to consider exchanging experience in destination management and participating in the tourism events of each others. The idea was evolved at the recent meeting between Subodh Kant Sahay, Union Tourism Minister, Government of India, and Yeung Sik Yuen, Minister for Tourism, Mauritius, in New Delhi. The ministers said to have discussed various measures, including faculty exchange programmes for human resource development institutes and possibilities

for promoting more package tours in either of the countries by its travel trade, for firming up bilateral tourism ties. “There is a tremendous scope to develop tourism infrastructure with mutual help. We are open to

explore the possibilities of promoting investment in tourism industry and hospitality sector. Besides, tour operators and travel agents of the two countries may interact with each other in order to promote two-way

Gujarat moves closer to developing beach destinations

t seems, it is only a matter of time before Gujarat, which has the longest coastline in India, makes its way to the list of one of the sought-after beach holiday destinations in the country. With the planning commission approving Rs 1,200 crore special grant for developing coastal tourism in Gujarat, the state government’s plans to develop 10 beaches on its coastline have already half realised. “We submitted a proposal for a coastal tourism project in the state and a special grant of Rs 1,200 crore has been approved, after considering its merits,” Vipul Mitra, State Tourism Secretary, Gujarat, confirms the development. “The centre will allocate the full amount in a span of five years and we

Photo: thegujarattourism.com

are expecting Rs 306 crore to be released in the current year itself. The fund to be released this year will also include Vipul Mitra one-time immediate grant of Rs 70 crore,” he informs. Despite having the longest coastline in the country, Gujarat couldn’t so far make much of a progress on costal tourism front, as its beaches lacked infrastructure. Realising the tourism potential its coastline holds, the state government has been, for some time now, trying to boost coastal tourism in the state. Gujarat has 1,600 kilometres of coastline. The beaches the government has identified for the development are Nargol, Tithal in Vadodara district, Gopnath and Bhavani beaches in Bhavnagar district, Sarkeshwar in Amreli district, Ahmedpur Mandvi and Madhavpur in Junagadh district, Miyani in Porbandar district and Pingleshwar and Mandvi in Kutch district.

tourism between India and Mauritius,” says, Sahay. As per the available figures, more than 21,000 tourists from Mauritius visited India in 2010, up from 18,000 arrivals in 2009. India Tourism Office located in Johannesburg is responsible for promoting India as a tourist destination in Mauritius. “Given the age old historic and cultural ties between the two countries, I think, there is enormous potential to strengthen bilateral ties by promoting tourism. It (tourism) can even be linked to the overall cooperation between the two countries,” says, Yuen.

Tamil Nadu to offer customised tours

o cash in on the growing demand for customised tour pakages among travellers, Tamil Nadu Tourism Development Corporation (TTDC) has started offering customised travel tours that meet tourist’s preferences. “We launched the new scheme after receiving requests from tourists to operate tours to destinations preferred by them,” says an official with TTDC. It has so far been concentrating on fixed itinerary tours. Under the new scheme, TTDC will prepare an itinerary, and provide a bus with a tour guide and accommodation based on travellers’ preferences. Such tour packages will be cheaper, if it involves inter-state travel, as TTDC buses are exempted from tax levied by other states. Travellers can also opt to stay at TTDC hotels or gust houses, which are available at affordable rates.

ASIAN TRAVELLER | JULY 2012

NEWSLINE

ASIAN TRAVELLER | JULY 2012

NEWSLINE

o help its B2B travel agent partners to promote foreign independent travel (FIT) in the country, Thomas Cook (India) Ltd., India’s largest integrated travel Madhav Pai and related financial services company, has launched Personalised Holidays Direct (PH Direct). It’s a platform that directly serves and supports its travel agent partners in a quicker, efficient and interactive way. Now, its registered agent partners can access a range of pre-packaged and pre-priced international holidays and recommended itineraries via a special file transfer protocol

(FTP) link. The platform is also expected to enable them to customise holidays as per their client’s requirements and budget. “PH Direct is an innovative endeavour from us to assist our agent partners in promoting personalised FIT holidays to destinations worldwide, which in-turn will help them serve their clients promptly. Easy access to a range and depth of products, backed by direct access to our centralised team of experts, will indeed delight our B2B partners,” says, Madhav Pai, Chief Operating Officer, Leisure Travel (Outbound), Thomas Cook (India) Ltd.

Picture used for representational purpose only

Thomas Cook launches a fitting platform for partners to promote FIT Photo: hotelkhoj.com

TUI India unveils monsoon packages

UI India has introduced a number of attractive monsoon packages for the travellers, who are interested in exploring India, while it rains. “Since the country offers a number of choices, we have introduced top packages which are a must to travel in India during the monsoon season. They will meet your excitement and offer a memorable experience,” says a company spokesperson. The hotels TUI India has picked up for monsoon

packages include Vivanta By Taj Fort Aguada, Goa; Vivanta By Taj Holiday Village, Goa; Jai Mahal Palace, Jaipur; Gateway Hotel Ramgarh Lodge, Jaipur; Usha Kiran Palace, Gwalior; Hotel Chandela, Khajuraho; Infinity Resort, Corbett; Aranya Safari Resort, Corbett; Hotel Suman Paradise, Nainital; Hotel Ganga Beach Resort, Rishikesh; Tarika’s Jungal Retreat, Chail, and Hotel Woodville Palace, Shimla. The packages will be valid till September 30, 2012.

Khiri Travel opens Phuket office, to focus on southern Thailand market

o offer exotic tour and Khao Sok forest park, to packages to southern the discerning travellers. Thailand, Khiri Travel, “From our Phuket office, an independent destination we will develop innovative management company, has new programmes such as opened its office in community based Phuket, an island tours for the south. off the south-west These are being coast of Thailand. designed to show From the new unique aspects of office, the company southern Thailand will offer popular to our industry southern Thailand partners,” maintains, experiences such as Andre van der Marck, Andre van der Marck yacht charters, sea General Manager, canoeing and Phi Phi Island Khiri Travel Thailand. trips, and creative itineraries The main attractions of to the north of Phuket in the southern Thailand include Khao Lak beach resort area limestone islands, remote

Photo: worldbestplaces.com

sandy bays, verdant landscapes and multi-cultural communities of Thai, Chinese, Muslims and sea gypsies. The company has a strong presence in Thailand and

offers ground-breaking itineraries and travel options in Bangkok, northern Thailand and the Greater Mekong countries of Indochina.

ASIAN TRAVELLER | JULY 2012

NEWSLINE

Ezeego1.com to promote virgin Malaysian locations

n what could be termed as a major move, Tourism Malaysia has launched a joint campaign with Ezeego1. com, India’s leading online travel search site, to sell its gorgeous unexplored locations to the Indian outbound travel market. As part of the campaign,

Ezeego1.com will offer packages that combine regular destinations like Kuala Lumpur and newer destinations like Taman Negara, to give a pristine experience to the travellers. The packages are affordably priced and start from Rs 35,872.

“We are glad to partner Mulu, Kuching, Batang Ai, with Ezeego1.com, one of the Kudat, Sabah Tea Plantation, finest travel portals in India. Kinabatagan and Tabin With this campaign, we will Wildlife Reserve. be able to lure the Indian “Indian travellers have travellers looking for offbeat become more mature and destinations with unique are ready to experiment experiences,” says, Manoharan Periasamy, Director, Tourism Malaysia. To provide a clear picture of the destinations on offer for the Indian Manoharan Periasamy Neelu Singh market under the campaign, with newer destinations. Ezeego1.com will introduce In this wake, it is a great new and exclusive itineraries opportunity for Ezeego1.com on its website, including to share Tourism Malaysia’s unchartered Malaysian vision of promoting its destinations like Cameron unexplored locations in Highlands, Ipoh, Pangkor India,” smiles, Neelu Singh, islands, Kota Kinabalu, COO, Ezeego1.com.

Explore Kashmir, with Goibibo.com

ASIAN TRAVELLER | JULY 2012

Photo: indbaaz.com

explore Kashmir in its ecstatic spirits,” informs a company spokesperson. The package is valid till September 30, 2012. Goibibo.com is part of the ibibo Group and was launched in September 2009.

Photo: drawingcroquis.blogspot.com

One can buy air and bus tickets, hotels and holidays through the portal. Within a short span of time, it has trounced hundreds of travel sites, with its strong technology, which enables it

Picture used for representational purpose only

oibibo.com, one of the leading online travel portals in India, has designed a special package for travellers planning to visit Kashmir this July and August. Named as Mystic Kashmir, the package for five days and six nights will cover places such as Srinagar, Pahalgam and Gulmarg, at Rs 13749. Main features of the package include shikara ride on Dal Lake, sightseeing at Mughal Gardens and visit to Valley of Shepherds at Pahalgam and Meadow Valley in Gulmarg. “Accommodation, breakfast and dinner, and sightseeing costs are included in the package. Mystic Kashmir is a must for those who want to

to serve its customers fastest in the market. Goibibo.com also has the quickest processes for rescheduling, cancellation and refunds, providing an unmatched consumer experience.

NEWSLINE

Down Under gets down to luring Indians a sustainable, competitive harness new research and aviation market between the increased resources, including two countries, and developing doubling of marketing spend quality experiences in India in 2013. that competitively Developing new differentiate Australia, products and infrom the rest of the market promotions countries, to draw that showcase more Indian arrivals to new destinations the country. will also be part “India is currently and parcel of the our 10th most valuable newly launched inbound tourism strategy for India. Photo: placeswallpaper.blogspot.in market. With over We will, however, Andrew McEvoy be moving ahead ith 50 million and government stakeholders, 70 national tourism organisations active with a targeted Indians forecast to the strategic plan has its in India, the time is right for approach,” McEvoy throws travel overseas by focus on to at least grow the more light into the strategy he 2020, it seems the country’s number of Indian travellers to us to invest more, both to has for India. outbound travel market has three lakh and their spending maintain our presence and enable our industry to better Indian arrivals to Australia become irresistibly attractive to A$2.3 billion by 2020, leverage a future competitive have grown at a compound for the tourism boards from 1.48 lakh visitors and a annual growth rate of 12.3 of foreign countries. The spend of A$867 million that it advantage,” smiles, Andrew McEvoy, Managing Director, per cent over the last decade. latest in the list to unveil a recorded in 2011. Tourism Australia. Tourism Australia’s activities specially designed marketing Through the India 2020 He revealed that his in India are managed from programme to win the Indians Strategic Plan, Tourism country will be targeting Delhi its office in Mumbai and are is Tourism Australia, which Australia is expected to has launched India 2020 address four important areas, and Mumbai and the affluent overseen by Nishant Kashikar, middle class travellers within Country Manager, India, Strategic Plan, at the recently which include choosing them first, to sustainably and Maggie White, Regional concluded Australia Tourism the right target customer; grow Indian visitation to General Manager for South Exchange in Perth. Developed a clear geographic strategy Australia. “The plan would and South-East Asia. in consultation with industry to focus resources; building

Travel back in time in Prague, exploring baroque culture

f you do not want to miss a unique chance to experience an authentic baroque atmosphere, make sure to be in Prague anytime between mid-August and the first week of September 2012. It is when the capital city of the Czech Republic plays host to the Opera Barocca Festival that features a series of musical and dance performances. To be held at the courtyard of the Clam-Gallas Palace, from August 18 to September 9, the festival is also an opportunity to admire and enjoy Franzis Wussin Atelier’s collection of grandiose baroque costumes

based on period iconology, which will be exhibited at the venue. Clam-Gallas Palace is one of the most beautiful baroque palaces in Prague and there is no better way to

explore the historic heritage of the Czech than through the series of concerts, epic theatre performances and baroque soirées that are staged here. The festival is being organised by the

Institute of Baroque Culture, Prague. The festival, which is into its third edition, will have its focus on the interpretation of the period music and dance, and recreation of the festive divertimentos of the 17th and 18th centuries. It means you can lap up the music of the court festivities performed at some of the leading European courts as well as the music from operas and ballet performances composed in the 17th and 18th centuries. All the performances will be staged with musicians, singers and dancers dressed in the period costumes and masks.

ASIAN TRAVELLER | JULY 2012

NEWSLINE

Bangkok turns hot for international travellers

he value for money destination tag seems to be doing wonders for Thailand. It has not only helped its capital city Bangkok to emerge as the top ranked city in Asia on MasterCard Worldwide annual Global Destination Cities Index, but also find a third place in the list of global destinations that are said to draw an increased number of international tourists and see better visitor spend, in 2012. As per the index, Thailand is expected to attract 12.2

million visitors this year, while London, which tops the list, is said to draw around 17 million travellers. Paris was ranked second in the list. The index also reveals that a total of $19.3 billion will be spent by tourists in Bangkok, which is a 19.3 per cent increase compared to the visitor spend last year. “The entire team at the Tourism Authority of Thailand is proud to learn Bangkok has emerged as the preferred destination in Asia, for the international travellers. Bangkok and all

our major cities that attract tourists globally are, indeed, perceived as a value for money destination. We are pleased that Bangkok has outranked cities such as New York, Madrid, Rome and Barcelona and hope that our constant efforts will make Bangkok the number one visited city,” says a joyful Sethaphan Buddhani, Director, TAT Mumbai.

Bangkok, known as Krung Thep in Thai language, is the largest city in Thailand. Tourists normally travel to Bangkok for its vibrant nightlife, world renowned cuisine, beautiful temples and luxury hotels. Over the last few decades, it has changed into a modern, exciting, and sophisticated city.

It’s time for music and fun in Budapest

ow about a holiday in a faraway destination, where you can have enough of music, theatre, cinema, console games, tennis, table tennis, foosball, swimming, archery, bungee jumping, zip-lining, foam parties, henna and ink tattoos, Thai massages, shisha smoking, beer and loads of other cultural, sporty, sexy and hippy stuff? All you have to do is to pack your bags to Budapest, the capital city of Hungary, in the first week of August this year, when it holds Sziget Festival. The festival, celebrated for seven days, will be held at the tranquil Óbuda (Buda Island), Danube River, between Buda and Pest,

ASIAN TRAVELLER | JULY 2012

Photo: quesearocanrol.com

from August 6-13. It is one of the top five festivals of Europe and usually attracts tourists in large numbers, from across the globe. While the event is all about

music, especially large-scale concerts, there will be small performance areas, game tents, sports and leisure arenas, arts and cultural spaces, markets, cinemas,

folk villages and chill out zones, to keep you engaged all through the seven days. Sziget Festival is linked to Burning Man, a weeklong annual art event held in the Black Rock Desert in northern Nevada, US, as it promotes unity through music, and cultural and creative exchange. Interestingly, Burning Man Nevada is held by the end of August and runs through the first three days of September (August 27September 3, 2012). This year, Sziget Festival will feature legendary artists like Toots and the Maytals, Patti Smith, Lou Reed, the Sex Pistols, Prince, Iggy Pop, David Bowie, and Radiohead.

NEWSLINE

Mud filled fun moments in South Korea

f you are a hardcore lover of festivals, South Korea’s Boryeong Mud Festival is hardly the one you can give a miss. What it has in store for you is nine days of mud filled fun moments

in the day and a beach side retreat in the evening. At night, you can enjoy music and fireworks display, under the star lit sky on the beach. Added attractions include mud wrestling competition,

mud marathon, mud painting and mud massage. If you still long more, slither down a hundred foot mud super slide. Once you have had enough of mud experience, rush into the sea in front of the festival venue, to clean yourself and enjoy a perfect sea bath. Into its 15th edition, this year, Boryeong Mud Festival will be as usual held at Daecheon Beach, Boryeong, from July 14-24. It’s the time of the year, foreigners and domestic travellers visit the city of Boryeong, which is about 200 kilometres south of Seoul, to enjoy the summer heat, while living every moment of the mud festival.

Launched in 1998, the festival has today become a cultural melting pot, where people from all over the world come together and meet new people, breaking down walls of age, nationality, race and have fun together. The popularity of this annually held festival is huge that it attracts more than two million visitors to the shores of Daecheon Beach, in July every year. The mud is of Boryeong mud flats and is considered to be rich in minerals and is actually used to manufacture cosmetics. The festival was conceived to promote a range of cosmetics that were produced using the mud from the Boryeong mud flats.

TAT makes amazing moves to woo Indian wedding segment

campaign, we aim to boost the number of Indian weddings celebrated in our country and at the same time focus on the promotion of new exotic locations and cities within it,” says, Sethaphan Buddhani, Director, TAT Mumbai. TAT Mumbai has provided the selected wedding planners thorough destination knowledge, and Photo: kohphiphiwedding information on for the wedding function top hotels and and offer free business resorts and logistics class tickets for the bride management, Sethaphan Buddhani and groom, subject to through educational “This is the first time conditions laid down by tours. Reliable we are launching a loyalty the airlines. To avail of the figures indicate that since 2011 Thailand has been chosen as support services for them and support programme which addresses a specific niche the destination for over 100 their clients, the agents have segment. Indians, especially Indian weddings. Favoured to, however, abide by certain cities have been Bangkok, terms and conditions. The first the ones who hail from the Pattaya, Hua Hin and Chiang metros, are increasingly and foremost of them is that Mai. “Destinations such as looking at international they have to make sure that Krabi and Khao Lak are also bridal couple, along with their destinations, for their wedding. And Thailand is one slowly gaining popularity family members and guests within the Indian market, as of the favourite international originate from India and perfect wedding locations,” destinations preferred by within the coverage area of informs, Buddhani. Indian couples. Through this TAT Mumbai. Picture used for representational purpose only

he Mumbai office of Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has intensified its efforts to capture a handsome share of the Indian wedding market, by launching Amazing Thailand Wedding Specialists programme for the Indian wedding planners and organisers. Under the new scheme, TAT Mumbai has shortlisted 10 wedding planners within its coverage area, whose clients will receive specific support services upon confirming Indian wedding in Thailand. The move is part of TAT’s overall marketing strategy to tap the growing Indian outbound travel market through focusing on niche segments. As part of the Amazing Thailand Wedding Specialists programme, TAT is expected to support recce visits, arrange traditional Thai performances

ASIAN TRAVELLER | JULY 2012

NEWSLINE

Flock to Tokushima City, to enjoy folk dance

t’s time to dance in Tokushima City, Japan. That too with steps, to the jovial and energetic up-tempo rhythm! If it sounds pleasant to your ears, there is no doubt that you will surely fall in love with the Awa-Odori folk dance festival, to be held in Tokushima City from August 12-15, 2012. During the festival, dancers, separated into groups of men and women, parade through the city, dancing to the music played on drums, gongs, threestringed Japanese musical instruments and flutes. The

Photo: vamortgagecenter.com

festival is very popular among international travellers. In the day, one can enjoy the famous Awa dance by groups of several dozen dancers, on stages set up in different parts of the city. In the evening, the town becomes enveloped by dancers and by night they switch to frenzied dance. The basic rule of this dance is to move your right arm forward with your right leg, and your left arm forward with your left leg, to the twobeat rhythm. Since the festival is being held throughout the city, you

need not look in search of a venue. You can head to parks in the city centre, or dance stages called ‘enbujo’, where you can watch the dance closer, and ‘Odori Hiroba’, where even spectators sometimes join in the dancing. Odori Road is another option and one can also prefer to be at local shopping areas. There are some myths associated with the origin of Awa-Odori folk dance, which is some 400 years old. Some say it was performed to welcome the souls of ancestors in the Bon season,

while some believe it was a form of the dance performed in celebration of newly-built Tokushima Castle in 1587. At that time the city was known as Awa and hence the name. Located in the northeastern part of Tokushima Prefecture and spreads out to the mouth of the Yoshinogawa River, Tokushima City is home to tourist attractions such as Mt. Bi-zan and Tokushima Central Park. The city is an aqua-metropolis and you can take a 30-minute tour on Hyotan-jima Cruising Boat to explore the attractions.

Tourism Flanders casts an attractive web, for Indians

n order to make the first impression about the destination the best among the Indian outbound travellers, Tourism Flanders (Belgium) has introduced new features to its exclusive website for the Indian market. Starting with an innovative approach to its homepage, the online platform of Tourism Flanders has been comprehensively redesigned and it now features inventive destination ideas for the Indians, who are looking for holidays to the Flemish cities. “Tourism Flanders approaches its international audiences by creating uniquely tailored messages ASIAN TRAVELLER | JULY 2012

for each market. For the Indian travellers, we have tailored the content along themes that will inspire, inform and facilitate bookings via dynamic accommodation search,” smiles, Sunil Puri, Director – Tourism Flanders and Brussels, India. The website, www. visitflanders.in, features interesting facts and images of Flanders region, which are customised for the needs of Indian travellers. Now, travellers only need to visit the webpage to get information on its products, services and events, to plan and prepare their trips, to the Flanders. To make it easier for the users to share the content

via tweets and facebook, the website is also integrated with popular social media channels. “We recognise today’s traveller uses external review sites and other sources for

information, when they research and plan their trips. So, we have included links on our main site that lead visitors to both social media and external review sites,” adds, Puri. 17

GUEST COLUMN

Medical Tourism:

A Success Mantra

Photo: kai-medical.net

T Elizabeth Ziemba takes a look at Keralaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s medical tourism scene, and the role customer care continuum can play in helping a region to emerge as a hot medical tourism destination

he number of people travelling to far away destinations for affordable, yet quality medical and wellness products and services is on the rise day by day. Kerala, which is known for its natural beauty as well as other tourism attractions, is wellpositioned to attract people from around the world to access its health and wellness products and services. It has got quality infrastructure and skilled manpower. However, growing and managing the opportunities

ASIAN TRAVELLER | JULY 2012

GUEST COLUMN in this segment presents a challenge to various sectors responsible for delivering services to the visitors. It is a delicate balance to maintain services for residents, create jobs and sustain growth in an increasingly competitive global arena. The keys to success lie in intelligent planning, integration and coordination of sectors, and superior customer service. Whether travelling from near or far, visitors coming for health and wellness services want three basic things: Excellent services from skilled professionals offered at a fair price. The businesses that are succeeding in this sector add a fourth element - superior customer care. It is this fourth factor that separates the winners from the ‘also-rans’ in the competition for business. To be truly competitive, a region such as Kerala must provide a seamless, positive experience through every stage of ‘customer care continuum’. A 2011 IITTM research report, based on a survey of thousands of medical tourists, reveals that 51 per cent of the individuals surveyed selected where to have services

Photo: 2.bp.blogspot.com

ASIAN TRAVELLER | JULY 2012

Photo: medicalexpedition.com

Photo: ayurvedayogatours.com

based on word of mouth referrals. This research clearly demonstrates the importance of ensuring that visitors and accompanying family members and friends have positive things to say about every aspect of their experience. Private and public sector entities can create a superior customer care continuum. The customer care continuum is the integration and coordination of all services utilised by any visitor and is important for people travelling for health and wellness services. These unique guests are different from visitors for pleasure. They may have mobility impairments, or be nervous,

Photo: best-places.net

or anxious about the services they seek. Culture shock and fatigue may have a greater impact on them, while someone coming for relaxation or adventure is light-hearted. Anticipating the needs of these visitors will help to build efficient customer service systems that meet and exceed their expectations. International health travel is the intersection of health and wellness providers, hospitality services, travel agents and tour operators, and government. Each sector has an important role to play in designing, creating, implementing and delivering a superior customer service experience.

The customer care continuum is a complex, multivariate process that must be flexible to meet the needs of a wide spectrum of clients. The process begins with the first e-mail or telephone call to inquire about services, continues to travel and other services being arranged, moves to the arrival process and then to the provision of services. It ends with departure from the hospital and follow-up. These services may be provided by private businesses or public services, including government. Coordination between and among these entities is challenging and requires strong leaders with a shared vision. A Hypothetical Case Study Let’s look at the example of Abdul from Saudi Arabia travelling to Trivandrum for out-patient healthcare testing for his bad back. He feels a moderate amount of pain but is mobile. His brother, Mohammad, accompanies him for the three days they are staying in Kerala. The customer care continuum begins with a phone call to the international patient department at a Kerala hospital. Abdul’s questions are handled professionally by the hospital staff and, after medical records are provided and financial services arranged, Abdul has the dates for his hospital services.

GUEST COLUMN At this point, he may choose to make his own travel arrangements, or work with a travel agent to select flights and hotel for himself and his brother. Before they can travel, they need to address the issue of visas. Is a visa necessary, how long will it take to process, and how much will it cost? Countries that do not require visas, or that have simple visa processes have a competitive edge over countries whose visa processing is cumbersome, expensive and time consuming. With so many other choices, prospective visitors may choose another destination. The next step in the continuum is the trip from Abdul’s home to Kerala. How are they treated by the airline representatives? With Abdul’s bad back, does he need help with his baggage, assistance to get to the gate and on the plane, and help with getting off the plane? Coordination of services among the hospital, airline, travel agent and customer can ensure that Abdul and Mohammad arrive feeling confident of their choice in coming to Kerala. What is the arrival experience like? The airport in Trivandrum is new, clean and makes a good first impression. Is there someone waiting for Abdul and Mohammad at arrivals, or must they face a crowded arrivals area with

Photo: i1043.photobucket.com

Photo: 2.bp.blogspot.com

long lines? It is difficult for Abdul to stand for prolonged periods of time. Helping to navigate the immigration and customs process would be a relief, especially given that so many flights arrive in the middle of the night, with people tired and disoriented. The IITTM research reports that many medical tourists found the customs and immigration officers to be ‘insensitive’. Customer service training and monitoring

is a simple solution to this common complaint. Either the healthcare provider or travel agent can assist with transportation from the airport to the hotel. Is the car or taxi clean and comfortable? Is the driver dressed appropriately? Does he know where he is going? All these things matter a lot. Check-in at the hotel should go smoothly. Does the hotel meet the customer’s expectations, in terms of cleanliness, amenities, quality of food and friendliness of staff? Is transport arranged to and from the hospital? Of course, the healthcare services should be delivered properly by skilled professionals, at the agreed upon price. What about Mohammad? Has he been offered opportunities for sightseeing, or suggestions for dining or shopping? Is he bored, or enjoying his visit to Kerala? The hotel concierge

or travel agent should make suggestions so that Mohammad has a positive experience, while in Kerala. After the medical testing is completed satisfactorily, Abdul and Mohammad are ready to check out of the hotel. Does that experience go smoothly? Is transportation arranged to the airport? How does the airline check-in process go? All these are an integral part of the customer care continuum. Once Abdul and Mohammad are back in Saudi Arabia, the hospital needs to follow up to ensure coordination of care and inquire about Abdul’s satisfaction with its services. Other service providers, including the hotel and travel agent, may inquire about the quality of their services. The data collected from Abdul and Mohammad and other visitors point out areas of satisfaction as well as services that need to be improved. Then, action is required! The role of government underlies this customer care continuum, as it is responsible for visa procedures, customs and immigration, and maintenance of roads and airports. Its leadership in promoting Kerala as a distinct region within the ‘Incredible India’ brand will help to draw health and wellness travellers to the state to enjoy the services and various attractions the region has to offer. Health and wellness providers, travel agents and tour operators, hotels and restaurants, as well as government agencies must collaborate and cooperate to create a seamless customer service experience for the visitors to Kerala. What role will your organisation play in the region’s success? {The author is the President of Medical Tourism Training, Inc., USA. She holds degrees in law (JD) and international public health (MPH)}

ASIAN TRAVELLER | JULY 2012

The city of thousand temples With so many intricately carved temples in one place, Kanchipuram is the epitome of a religious tourist destination, says Dr S Bakthavatchalam

ho is not marvelled by the vignettes of Indiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s rich cultural heritage background? And if you like to explore it in person, just visit Kanchipuram in Tamil Nadu, one of the seven centres of salvation (seven Puris) and the nerve centre of vedic schools. Situated just around 72 kilometres from Chennai, Kanchipuram, with its

glorious temples and vedic schools, is a treasure trove of heritage developed by illustrious saint philosophers and kings of Pallava, Chola and Vijayanagara dynasties. A walk down the lanes of this city will surely culminate in a spiritual voyage of legends, mythology, saints, temples and dynasties. A host of temples for various Hindu gods can be

ASIAN TRAVELLER | JULY 2012

TAMIL NADU TRAVELLER found in every nook and corner of Kanchipuram. Hence, it is called the temple town and the city of thousand temples. Every path you take, you are sure to be confronted by a temple. Some of them are wonderful monuments with excellent sculpture, architecture and murals. Some of the best and finest temples of the country, including Kailashnatha Temple, Ekambareswarar Temple and Varadharaja Perumal Temple, are located here. Most of the temples here are said to be originally built by the Pallava rulers and renovated later by the Chola and Vijayanagara kings. One could begin the journey to the temples by visiting Kamakshi Amman Temple. It is one of the three most sacred places for ‘Sakthi worship’ in India. Built by the Pallavas in the sixth century and modified between 14th and 17th century, the temple features a golden gopuram and some fine carvings. As the name suggests, the temple is dedicated to Kamakshi, one of the forms of the goddess Parvati. The Kanchi Mutt seers worship here daily. Ekambareswarar Temple, the most famous Shiva temple at Kanchi, is located northeast of the Kamakshi Temple. Built in 600 CE by the Pallavas, this temple features a tall south gopuram, which soars to a height of about 59 metres. It is also the largest temple in Kanchipuram and covers an area of about 23 acres. The main feature of the temple is its hallway with a thousand pillars. Another temple which is of great importance is the Kailashnatha Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Built in the seventh century by the Pallava king Rajasimha, the temple bears a close resemblance to the monolithic structures

ASIAN TRAVELLER | JULY 2012

found in Mamallapuram. This is an overwhelming sculptural edifice with intricate carvings and is the oldest Pallava temple still in existence. It was declared an archaeological monument by the Archaeological Survey of India, sometime back. There are a number of small shrines within this temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, Goddess Parvati and their sons Ganesh and Murugan. The Kumarakottam Temple, dedicated to Lord Murugan, is located between the Ekambareswarar Temple and Kamakshi Amman Temple. It is believed that it is from here Kanda Puranam, the Tamil religious work on Lord Murugan, is translated from Sanskrit Skanda Purana. Varadharaja Perumal Temple, which was originally built by the Cholas in 1053 and expanded during the

reigns of Kulothunga Chola I and his son Vikrama Chola, is also a must visit. Varadharaja Perumal Temple, one of the 108 ‘Divya Desams’, the holy abodes of Vishnu, is located in a part of Kanchipuram called Vishnu Kanchi. The temple complex showcases the skills of ancient vishwakarma sthapathis in temple architecture. Besides Varadharaja Perumal Temple, Vishnu Kanchi has a lot of temples dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The town is home to many more important Hindu temples, including Devarajaswami Temple and Chitragupta Temple. You can also find a twin Jain temple here, which still contain nice frescoes. Located at Thiruparuthikundram, a village situated on the banks of the Palar River, the twin Jain temple of Trilokyanatha/ Chandraprabha features mural

paintings that depict the scenes from the life of Rsabhanatha and Neminatha, two of Jain Tirthankar. The temple is maintained by Tamil Nadu Archaeological Department. Even though it is known as a temple town, you can find nine mosques, including Nawab Sathathullah Khan Mosque and Hazrat Aliya Dargah, here. No wonder, given that Kanchipuram was ruled by the Nawab of Arcot in early 1700 AD. There are also two British built churches in Kanchipuram - Church of South India and St. Mary’s Church. They were built in 1922 and 1943, respectively. Another must visit is Kanchi Kamakoti Peetam. It is one of the most important Hindu monastic institutions in India founded by the philosopher-saint Adi Sankara. Kanchipuram is also famous for its thriving handloom industry and is rightly called the Silk City. Browse for traditional silk saris in shops on the streets. Almost every home in Kanchipuram has a pit loom, as 75 per cent of its population is involved in the weaving business. It is easy to get to Kanchipuram from Chennai, where the nearest airport is, as it is well connected by road and rail. It will take only two-hour drive to reach the destination.

IN FOCUS

AN EVERGREEN HERITAGE SITE

What is so special about the Western Ghats that it has found its way to the list of World Heritage Sites of the UNESCO? Abin K I gets some facts about this mountain range

he long wait is over, as India’s 1,600 kilometres long green fort Western Ghats mountain chain has finally been added to the list of World’s Natural Heritage Sites by the United Nations Educational Scientific

and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO). Locally known as ‘Sahyadris’, this mountain range has been long back recognised as one of the eight hot biodiversity spots in the world. The forests of Western Ghats are older than the

Himalaya Mountain ranges and its influence on Indian monsoon pattern is significant. Natural sites earlier inscribed by UNESCO from the country include Kaziranga National Park, Keoladeo Ghana National Park, Manas Wildlife

Sanctuary, Sundarbans National Park, Nanda Devi and Valley of Flowers National Parks, etc. Western Ghats, with its 39 serial sites, is the sixth natural site from the country to find a place in UNESCO’s list.

ASIAN TRAVELLER | JULY 2012

IN FOCUS conservation and sustainable development, in collaboration with the Nature Conservation Foundation (NCF) and the Wildlife Institute of India (WII) sent a proposal to the UNESCOâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Natural Heritage Properties suggesting that the Western Ghats be included in the list. The proposal was supported by the Union Ministry of Environment and Forests, Government of India.

First Step The World Heritage Committee (WHO) meets once in a year and is responsible for the implementation of the UNESCO World Heritage Convention, which defines

ASIAN TRAVELLER | JULY 2012

Natural Resources This mountain chain starts from the border of Gujarat and Maharashtra and runs through the states of Goa, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Kerala, parallel to the coast and ends at Kanyakumari, also known as Cape Comorin. The Ghats was declared an Ecologically Sensitive Area (ESA) and an ecological hot spot in 1988. The Ghats consists of Tiger and Elephant Reserves, National Parks, Wildlife and Bird Sanctuaries, and Reserved Forests. Mountains, Rainforests, Rivers, Hill stations and Waterfalls are all part of this global biodiversity hot spot. Krishna, Godavari and Kaveri are some of the famed rivers originating from this Ghats. About 60 per cent of the total area of Western Ghats lies in the state of Karnataka. Western Ghats is home to a number of flagship Photo: Salim Pushpanad, Munnar mammals, birds and plant species. Here, one can find endangered and endemic lion tailed Macaque, Nilgiri Thar, Asian Elephant and tiger. Another attraction is â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Neelakurinjiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;, purplish blue flowers that blossoms gregariously once in 12 years. the forms of natural or cultural sites to be considered The Ghats offers habitat to 5,000 plant species, of which for inscription on the World 30 per cent are endemic; 450 Heritage List. In 2006, the Ashoka Trust for Research in species of birds, of which 35 Ecology and the Environment per cent are endemic; 140 mammal species, of which 20 (ATREE), an institution per cent are endemic, and 260 engaged in the biodiversity

reptile species, of which more than 60 per cent are endemic. Tourism Prospects The heritage status will surely lift the tourism prospects of Western Ghats, because it has an array of diverse natural resources ideal for developing eco friendly tourism. The status of World Natural Heritage Site means that the government has more responsibility to preserve the biodiversity of the region, despite whatever the economic benefit is. Responsible and sustainable tourism initiatives such as eco tourism can be promoted in the region, based on its resources and biodiversity composition. Western Ghats is ideal for eco tourism, nature tourism, wildlife tourism, hill tourism, village tourism, tribal tourism, and adventure tourism, including trekking, rappelling, hiking, birdwatching and waterfall visits, etc. Silent Valley Rainforest and National Park in Kerala is one of the regions within the Ghats having massive floral and faunal wealth. Popular tourist spots in the Ghats include Saputara, Matheran, Mahabaleshwar, Amboli, Madikeri, Munnar, Silent Valley, Thekkady, Vythiri, Kodaikanal, Coorg, etc. Unplanned developmental activities, including excessive construction of hydel projects, dams and large scale mining operations are some of the major threats faced by the Ghats. The Natural Heritage Site tag will surely force the government to ban all such activities here, while responsible tourism initiatives will get a facelift. The natural heritage site status can also be used as an ideal mode for its sustainable conservation. (The author is a faculty in Tourism, Mahatma Gandhi University, Kottayam)

COLUMN Incredible India

V Duraikkannan

r. Kotnis’ Chinese wife Guo Qinglan died at her ripe age of 96 on June 28, 2012. Dwarkanath Shantaram Kotnis (1910-1942) was one of the five Indian physicians dispatched to China to provide medical assistance during the Second SinoJapanese War in 1938. Dr. Kotnis was known for his humanitarian spirit and internationalist outlook, as well as his dedication and perseverance. While the rest of the team returned to India safely, Dr. Kotnis chose to stay in China for the next four to five years and worked for the welfare of the Chinese soldiers, as director of Dr. Bethune International Peace Hospital in Yan’an, China. The remarkable life of Dr. Kotnis was made into a movie by the renowned director V Shantaram in 1946. The character of Dr. Kotnis was so overpowering that the director Shantaram himself donned the role of the doctor in the movie ‘Dr. Kotnis Ki Amar Kahani’ (The Immortal Story of Dr. Kotnis). Dr. Kotnis married Guo Qinglan, a nurse in his medical team only a year before his death and the couple had a son. Unfortunately, the doctor did not live for long after the child’s birth. He passed away when the child was only four months old. The child himself did not have a long life, as he

died at his tender age of 25, while he was still a student of medicine. But the beauty of the whole episode is about the child’s name, Yin-Hua. Yin and Hua are nothing but the Chinese characters standing for India and China! What an aesthetic and creative way of naming a child born to parents of two different national origins! Man’s very ingenious and curious way of conceptualisation and ideation of anything and the very art of naming it has been always beautiful and inspiring. The operating system Android has so many versions and they are named after desserts. It started from Cupcake to Donut, Éclair, Froyo (Frozen Yoghurt), Gingerbread, Honeycomb, Ice Cream Sandwich and the latest is Jelly Bean. The codename for the next version is already on air: Key Lime! Incidentally, the first two versions were also alphabetical - Astro

and Bender - but they were not registered for copyright reasons. While Android is naming its versions after desserts, Apple has taken to the feline world, naming its operating systems after the big cats like Cheetah, Puma, Jaguar, Panther, Tiger, Leopard, Snow Leopard and Lion. Though not alphabetical in their sequence like Android, Cheetah was released in March 2001 and the newest incarnation of OS X, Lion (v10.7), was released in January 2011. Talking about words, creativity and creative words, one has to necessarily think of (and thank too!) the Urban Dictionary. Urban Dictionary is a web-based dictionary of slang words and phrases, which contains over 6.5 million definitions as of March 2012. Submissions are regulated by volunteer editors and rated by site visitors. The site was founded in 1999 by Aaron Peckham while he was a freshman computer science major at California Polytechnic State University. Its slogan explains its purpose: “Define Your World!” The Urban Dictionary has a word for almost anything one wants to convey. The samples here would convey how thoughtful and creative are the coinages: Leap Beer - When you go to the bar intending to have just one beer and end up drinking four ASIAN TRAVELLER | JULY 2012

COLUMN Cyclops Date - A date with someone you’ve met over the internet; it’s not quite a blind date because you’ve seen their photo, chatted with them and possibly talked to them on the phone Phone Yawn - The act of taking out a cell phone from one’s pocket or purse, resulting in other people in the vicinity taking out and checking their phones as well Names for various syndromes also highlight man’s reaches of conceptualisation and ideation as found in the examples of Stockholm and Detroit syndromes. In psychology, Stockholm syndrome is a psychological phenomenon in which hostages express empathy and have positive feelings towards their captors, sometimes to the point of defending them. The syndrome is named

ASIAN TRAVELLER | JULY 2012

Photo: pupunussi Kreditbanken at Norrmalmstorg, a place where Norrmalmstorg robbery took place

after the Norrmalmstorg robbery of Kreditbanken at Norrmalmstorg in Stockholm, Sweden, in which bank employees were held hostages from August 23-28, 1973. In this case, victims became emotionally attached to their captors, and even defended them after they were freed from their six-day ordeal.

Detroit Syndrome is one’s tendency and proclivity to keep changing one’s car very often, as a new car hits the market. It is named after Detroit, the City of Cars! Likewise, there are so many Effects which represent a kaleidoscopic sense of perception and visualisation. For instance, if you read your

horoscope or star forecast in a local weekly or daily, you will find that mostly it is true for you. Will that mean that it is the same state or fate for every other person who shares your birthday or star? In point of fact, this is called Barnum Effect, after the famed circus man P T Barnum, whose show had something for everybody, every age. Likewise, there is always something universally applicable in bits and pieces in those popular forecasts which would suit any in different combinations! “And by the way, everything in life is writable about if you have the outgoing guts to do it, and the imagination to improvise.” - Sylvia Plath.

HOSPITALITY

Take a pizza break, at Leela Kovalam

f you are a pizza lover and happen to be in the capital city of God’s own country, the Leela Kovalam is the place for you. It has recently launched whole wheat multi seed healthy pizzas, which will be served from 12.30 pm to 11 pm, everyday. Named as Leela Wellness Pizza, this latest culinary offering from the Leela Kovalam, is available in many choices of multi seeded multigrain pizza bases, which are crisp and taste a nutty flavour. Also, you can opt for the thin crispy regular bases.

Multi seeded bases are prepared with a healthy blend of different grains and seeds, including whole wheat, rye, oat, corn, soy, barley, brown rice, millet, sunflower seed,

white and black sesame, pumpkin seeds and flaxseed. “The multi seeded multigrain pizza bases are rich in nutrients and less in bulky carbs and cheese,” slimes

Dinesh Lal P, Executive Sous Chef, the Leela Kovalam. For the followers of vegan diet, the Leela Kovalam has introduced Leela Vegan, a pure vegetarian pizza.

Providers of perfect MICE packages

ith its unmatched offerings for business travellers, WelcomHeritage, a collection of the finest heritage hotels and resorts in India, is fast emerging as a meetings, incentives, conferences and events (MICE) destination. An increasing number of business travellers are said to be opting for its properties in various parts of the country, for their MICE requirements. WelcomHeritage has more than 40 hotels across 13 states, in India. WelcomHeritage properties that are popular among business travellers include WelcomHeritage Noor Us Sabah Palace in Bhopal, WelcomHeritage Umed Bhawan in Kota, WelcomHeritage Bal Samand Lake Palace in Jodhpur and WelcomHeritage Lallgarh Palace in Bikaner. They provide a perfect package of fun and facilities for meetings and conferences. “These hotels offer a perfect amalgamation of historic

and contemporary culture, encompassing a wide range of holistic experiences. We are proud to own these strong MICE destinations,” says a spokesperson for the company. For the MICE segment, WelcomHeritage hotels offer a multitude of experiences to choose from. They range from a fort or palace in the midst of desert, a country manor in the lap of a green valley, a luxurious spa and a houseboat, to a colonial hill residence and a mystical fort, etc.

“With an ever-evolving demand, today’s business travellers are searching new and unexplored destinations for meetings, conclaves, excursions, events, gettogether, etc. Our hotels offer a wide range of facilities for business congregation, including complexes of traditional events and venues for meetings and well planned conferences,” adds the spokesperson. WelcomHeritage hotels also offer various exciting and

stress-busting activities like trekking, rappelling, fishing, safari ride, royal horse buggy ride, horse riding, horse safari, camel riding, jeep safari, folk dances and nature walk, etc., for the MICE segment. The room inventory of WelcomHeritage hotels varies from 6-70 rooms. A gathering of 20 to 500 people could be easily arranged at its hotels. WelcomHeritage also offers regional and multi-cuisine dining options.

ASIAN TRAVELLER | JULY 2012

HOSPITALITY

Meluha the Fern Mumbai wins Golden Peacock Eco-Innovation Award

n recognition of its innovative and successful work in the area of environment management, Meluha the Fern Mumbai, a five-star Ecotel hotel marketed by Concept Hospitality, has received the coveted Golden Peacock Eco-Innovation Award 2012, at the inaugural session of the 14th World Congress Environment on Management held recently in New Delhi. Punish Sharma, Area General Manager of Meluha the Fern Ecotel Mumbai, received the award from Sheila Dikshit, Chief Minister, Delhi.

involved daily in educating our guests regarding going green. Reduction of energy use, conservation of water, solid waste management are all investment initiatives that ensure high returns as well as help us in sustaining planet earth,” says, Sharma. Also, three Concept Golden Peacock Ecowhich is consistent with the Group hotels - Meluha the Innovation Award is given society’s goal of sustainable Fern Mumbai, The Fern away every year to the development. Jaipur and The Wall Street most innovative brand as “We are happy to be the Jaipur - have recently received determined by the satisfaction winner of Golden Peacock the Certificate of Excellence of customer’s long term Eco-Innovation Award 2012. Award 2012 from the world’s needs and aspirations in a Meluha the Fern Ecotel is a hi- largest travel website most cost-effective manner, end luxury property but still TripAdvisor.

Hotel Sahara Star gets excellence award

Six Keys properties win TripAdvisor award

eys Hotels, a brand of Berggruen Hotels Pvt. Ltd., seems to be quickly establishing itself as a hotel of choice for today’s travellers. At least, that’s what the prestigious TripAdvisor 2012 Certificate of Excellence Award for six of its hotels and resorts across India conveys. This accolade, which honours hospitality excellence, Sanjay Sethi is given only to establishments that consistently achieve outstanding traveller reviews on TripAdvisor. “We are excited to say six of our hotels have won the TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence Award for 2012. TripAdvisor is the largest travel website in the world and we are honoured to receive this award. We thank all our guests who ASIAN TRAVELLER | JULY 2012

stay at our hotels and resorts and who take the time out to write reviews that have enabled us to win these awards,” says, Sanjay Sethi, MD and CEO, Berggruen Hotels. The hotels that received the certificate of excellence award include, Keys Hotel Trivandrum, Ludhiana and Bengaluru; Dukes Retreat, Khandala; Keys Hotel Nestor, Mumbai and Evershine, Mahabaleshwar. Berggruen Hotels rolled out its first Keys hotel in Trivandrum in 2009. It now operates 10 hotels and resorts, of which four are owned by the company, while the remaining six are managed for hotel owning partners. Modern and stylish yet budget in terms of price makes Keys brand a trend setter in the hospitality sector.

n recognition of the high standards of hospitality it has set and outstanding reviews received from travellers, Hotel Sahara Star, Mumbai, a luxury Manish Sodhi five-star hotel, has received a four-star rating certificate from the world’s largest travel website TripAdvisor. This certificate of excellence award has placed the hotel in the list of the very best hotels in the world. “Our team is constantly focused on the smaller details of guest service and comfort, as we firmly believe that if the finer aspects are taken care of, the bigger details mechanically fall into place. The company has a strong sense of conviction and relentlessly trains its team members for further efficiency in human management, as it takes precedence over business management in hospitality. At Sahara Star, we create a trip to experience for our guests by offering services in sync with the global hospitality mandates. We shall continuously strive to achieve higher ratings and provide a memorable trip to both business and leisure travellers,” smiles, Manish Sodhi, General Manager, Hotel Sahara Star, Mumbai. The hotel has well-appointed 223 attractive rooms, including 13 luxurious suites. It also houses nine specialty restaurants and iLA de SVA, its spa and wellness centre.

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A premier backwater resort

ondering where to stay on your trip to explore the serene backwaters of Kumarakom, Alleppey and Cochin in Kerala? Vasundhara Sarovar Premiere is a best bet, as it is centrally located and lets you access all three destinations, very easily. Moreover, the property is situated just where the land meets tranquil and unexplored backwaters of Vayalar, which is about five kilometres from Cherthala railway station. It is also where you can enjoy nature, at its best. Vasundhara Sarovar Premiere is a premium five-star resort and offers luxurious accommodation. It has a total of 60 rooms in different categories – heritage villas, superior and deluxe rooms, suites, presidential suites and floating cottages. All rooms are well-appointed and combine the elegance of heritage motifs and contemporary design. What you can’t miss here is the two-bed room fully airconditioned houseboat. It comes with two separate sitting place and Jacuzzi on the upper deck. The hotel management sees to it that it offers finest services and

amenities to its guests that will add to an unmatched holiday experience. As you enter the hotel, you will surely be taken up by the mural paintings of heros and legends, which are inspired by temple arts, on the walls of reception area. To add spice to your stay at the hotel, it offers various dining options, including My Spice, its 24hour coffee shop and multicuisine restaurant; Zephyr,

its pool side lounge, and Chemmeen and Madira, its seafood specialty restaurant and bar. To help you and your family unwind in a relaxed setting, there is walking/ jogging trails around the property, children’s play area, fishing deck, aqua sport facilities with a speed boat, canoes, pedal boats and a motor boat, and a 6000 sq. ft. indoor game activity centre

equipped with pool table, table tennis, board games and video games. Another attraction is its open air amphitheatre with state-ofthe-art technology, where you can enjoy Kerala folklore. You will also surely love the resort’s medicinal herb garden, organic vegetable garden, curio shop and Dhanwanthari temple. During your stay at the resort, don’t forget to avail of its spa services. Operated by Soft Touch, internationally acclaimed spa professional, it is where you can enjoy a wide range of services, from Swedish deep tissue massage, to aromatic and ayurvedic therapies. The property also has a fitness studio, with state-of-the-art gym facilities, and a 10 ft. high yoga and meditation deck, overlooking the water bodies on both sides.

ASIAN TRAVELLER | JULY 2012

HOSPITALITY

“Vasundhara Sarovar Premiere brings a wealth of enriching experiences, rooted in the earthy beauty of God’s own country. It offers a multi-layered slice of Kerala, warmth

of contemporary luxury and the vibrant hospitality of its people. Premiere is uniquely positioned to offer its guests an experience that is intimate and luxurious, complemented by the

banquets, weddings, and parties, thanks to its conference hall with in-built audio and video equipment, well-planned amphitheatre and sprawling lawn. “Vasundhara marks the company’s first foray into Anand Nair the hospitality sector, soon to be followed by a couple of wellness resorts at breathtaking locations,” informs, Biju Mathew, Manager – Sales and Marketing, Vasundhara Sarovar Premiere, Vayalar. Biju Mathew The property is promoted by Dr Vasudevan, MD, Vasu highest level of service,” Coco Resorts Pvt. Ltd., and smiles, Anand Nair, General managed by Sarovar hotels. Manager, Vasundhara It is located just 35 kilometres Sarovar Premiere, Vayalar. from Cochin, 22 kilometres The property is also a perfect place to hold corporate from Kumarakom and 28 kilometres from Alleppey. events and conferences,

Holiday Inn Express opens Bangkok property

oliday Inn Express, one of the world’s fastest growing hotel brands, has launched Holiday Inn Express Bangkok Siam in Thailand, marking its foray into the South-East Asia market. Located in downtown Bangkok, the property comes with 300 well designed rooms, to cater to the needs of business and leisure travellers. Holiday Inn Express is one of the nine brands under the InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG). Launched in 1991, the brand has today grown to more than 2,000 hotels worldwide, the biggest brand within the IHG estate. “Set right at the heart of downtown Bangkok and minutes away from renowned shopping, entertainment and business districts, Holiday Inn Express Bangkok Siam offers travellers an affordable alternative to full service hotels within the area, but without compromising on

ASIAN TRAVELLER | JULY 2012

quality,” says, Alan Watts, Vice President of Operations South East Asia, IHG. Holiday Inn Express Bangkok Siam is located close to Siam Discovery and Siam Paragon malls, Chatuchak Weekend Market, and business districts like Silom, Sathorn and Sukhumvit. Holiday Inn Express is expected to open another 12 hotels in South East Asia by 2014, in destinations such as Thailand, Indonesia, Singapore and Malaysia. There are currently 40 Holiday Inn Express hotels across Asia Pacific and plans are on the cards to grow the number of hotels to 94 over the next few

years, making Holiday Inn Express one of the fastest growing brands in the region. “We have seen Holiday Inn Express grow exponentially over the last two decades into a well established brand in international markets. This is a clear indication of strong demand for the brand, from both our guests and investors. We are confident that Holiday Inn Express will do very well in a region with

popular leisure and business destinations and we are thrilled to open our first SouthEast Asian property right here in Bangkok,” smiles, Jan Smits, CEO of IHG Asia, Middle East and Africa.

AVIATION

The best airline in the world award goes to Qatar Airways poll conducted among more than 18 million business and leisure travellers from over 100 countries. The poll covered more than 200 airlines, from the large international airlines to small domestic carriers. It measured passenger satisfaction across 38 key performance indicators, including check-in, boarding, onboard seat comfort, cabin cleanliness, food, beverages, in-flight entertainment and atar Airways, the 2012 but also retained the we remain focused on our staff service. national carrier of best airline in the Middle East day to day job of offering Qatar Airways currently Qatar, has more than award, for the seventh time passengers the highest operates 109 modern aircrafts one reason to cherish this in a row. This year, the Doha- standards of service both in to 117 key business and year’s Farnborough Air Show, based carrier also won a the air and on the ground. the world’s largest aerospace third award - the best airline The award also recognises the leisure destinations across Europe, Middle East, Africa, event, held at Farnborough staff service in the Middle hard work and commitment Airport in Hampshire, East award. of our staff across the world,” Asia Pacific, North America and South America. In England, from July 9-15. It “I am extremely proud to says an upbeat Akbar Al not only took home the best receive this coveted award Baker, Chief Executive Officer, the next few months, the carrier is expected to fly airline in the world award once again from the travelling Qatar Airways. to Kilimanjaro, Tanzania; for the second consecutive public. Retaining awards is The Skytrax Awards, year at the annual Skytrax always difficult, but we have conducted by the global Mombasa, Kenya; Yangon, World Airline Awards held managed to do so amidst aviation research organisation, Myanmar; and Maputo, at the Farnborough Air Show tough competition. It shows select the winners based on a Mozambique.

SpiceJet eyes new foreign, domestic routes

oon after expanding its presence in north India, with flights connecting Chandigarh, Amritsar and Srinagar to New Delhi, India’s low-cost airline SpiceJet has unveiled its plans to start operations to six foreign destinations by October 31, 2012. “We will operate flights to Kabul, Riyadh, China, Hong Kong, Bangkok and Male in Maldives by October end,” confirms, Neil Mills, CEO, SpiceJet. If everything goes well, the carrier, which is run by Sun Group, will fly to these destinations from non-metro cities in India. At present, the Chennaibased airline’s international ASIAN TRAVELLER | JULY 2012

Neil Mills

presence is limited to destinations such as Dubai, Kathmandu and Colombo. It was very recently that SpiceJet expanded its services to north India with five 78-seater Bombardier Q400 NextGen aircrafts. The carrier is also expected to connect Dehradun and Indore to New Delhi, in the near future. Presently, the

airline operates more than 279 daily flights to 36 Indian cities. The airline is also in the process of acquiring more Bombardier Q400 aircrafts. It has recently placed an order for 30 such twin-engine, medium range, turboprop planes. “Our fleet expansion with the Bombardier Q400 is aimed at enhancing air

connectivity to tier II and tier III cities,” informs, Mills. It has recently announced that Delhi would be its third parking base, after Hyderabad and Chennai, for the Q400 aircrafts. SpiceJet uses Bombardier Q400 aircrafts to fly to cities such as Aurangabad, Bhopal, Calicut, Indore, Madurai, Chennai, etc.

VARIETY

1. What is Android’s next version (after the current Ice Cream Sandwich 4.0) called? 2. According to the Bible, who was the first grandson of Adam and Eve? Pacific Asia Travel Association has appointed Sheila Leong as Chief Operating Officer

Rimi Dutta has joined WelcomHeritage Hotels as Country Head – Sale

Radhika Dewan has joined Jaipur Marriott as Associate Director of Sales

3. Where is El Dorado International Airport? 4. What does the car brand name Ertiga mean? 5. What is the significance of the 241 in the pen Montblanc 241? 6. Which is the second busiest report after Paris in France? 7. How many Oscars had Walt Disney won all in all? 8. Which inventor nicknamed his first two sons Dot and Dash?

Nirmala L has joined Flora Airport Hotel as General Manager

Alan Joyce has been appointed as the Chairman of IATA Board of Governors

Jugal Ray has joined Fariyas Group of Hotels as Director - Sales and Marketing

9. What is the name of the blue iconic bird of Twitter? 10. What is hyetometer used for? Compiled by Deekay

Kurian Varghese has joined Citrus Hotels and Resorts as General Manager - Travel Trade

Paramjit Bawa has joined Destination New South Wales India office, Mumbai, as Manager

Marc Ruffet has joined Khiri Travel Phuket as Branch Manager

Send in your answers to info@mediastepsindia.com with TYKC 57 in the subject line. Answers should reach us before the 31st of this month. Answers to TYKC 56

1. Idaho. 2. Wide river & Long cape. 3. Cesar Ritz (Swiss founder of Ritz Hotels). 4. 26 miles 385 yards. 5. South Sudan (193rd country/ 2011). 6. One-Eyed Jack (1961). 7. It is China’s Google (search engine). 8. Shangri La. 9. Eric Morley. 10. 900 million.

WINNER OF TYKC 56

Bency Bryan South Glamorgan Cardiff, United Kingdom.

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Free Stay at UDS, Kovalam [ 2 nights and 3 days for two ]*

With its sleek and stylish design, Uday Samudra Leisure Beach Hotel is nothing less than a golden feather in the cap of Kovalam beach. Located just 15 metres from the sea, this four star hotel can well be categorised into a destination in itself. Its philosophy of combining the best elements of incomparable lifestyle, with the convenience of today’s modern world through exceptional standards of luxury, elegance and services, is well reflected in its products and services and has put the Uday Samudra Beach Hotel, popularly known as UDS, at the top position, in Kovalam. What is more noteworthy about UDS Kovalam is the international flair it sports.

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ASIAN TRAVELLER | JULY 2012