Asian Traveller July 2009 by Asian Traveller

CONTENTS Vol. 2 | No. 10 | JULY 2009

Woman of the Month

Union Budget 2009 Tourism Industry Disappointed

The travel and tourism industry in India have expressed disappointment at the Union Budget presented in the Parliament on July 6. The sector did not find the required mention in the budget speech by Union Finance Minister, Pranab Mukherjee.

India Tourism Unveils 100-Days Agenda Page 8

India's Tourism Ministry has announced an agenda to be pursued during the first 100 days. It has been formally unveiled by Kumari Selja, Minister of Tourism, Government of India in New Delhi recently.

10 Questions

Sikkim Declares Year 2010 as Sikkim Tourism Year

As part of its efforts to offer every possible facilities and new promotional tourism packages to the tourists Sikkim Tourism has declared the year 2010 as 'Sikkim Tourism Year'. Page

Ode to Majuli First Person

Home Ground

13 20 23 28

THE LEELA ENTERS RAJASTHAN FOLK COLOURS OF TAMIL NADU PARAMOUNT GOES INTERNATIONAL INVESTOR MEETS TO HAVE A PERMANENT WEB BASED PLATFORM

AS I TRAVEL V Duraikkannan

MAGIC OF MONSOON

Chantelle Maria McLean

Cover Photo : Retheesh Kariyam

JULY 2009 ASIAN TRAVELLER

Publication

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 AUSTRALIA

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BULGARIA

KSA

LONDON

UAE

KUWAIT

NEW DELHI

MUMBAI

BANGALORE

CHENNAI

HYDERABAD

DEHRADUN

MADURAI

ERNAKULAM

KOLKATA

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM

Administration

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 Bandana K. Prasad 0061-892757447 Vladimir Harizanov 00359-36186565 Sam Mathew 00966-505150513 Abdul Najeeb 0044-7769940391 Sanjeev S. L. 00971 508914709 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 09745001001 Jaya Rajeshwari Soniya S. Vidhu Krishna Nujum

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

EDITORâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S NOTE

n India the presentation of the national budget (or the Annual Financial Statement as it is referred to in the Indian Constitution), has become an eagerly awaited annual event. The reaction to the proposals made in this year's budget, like in the previous occasions, is mixed. As they say, it is not easy to please everyone. But the disappointment expressed by the travel and tourism industry is not baseless. The Finance Minister's Budget Speech did not even mention the word tourism. Weeks before the budget different associations had met the Finance Minister and submitted pre-budget memoranda listing their suggestions for helping the industry which was badly affected as a result of the global economic meltdown. Travel Agents Association of India (TAAI), the largest travel association in the country, requested the Union Government to give exemption from service tax to travel agents for five years. They also demanded export industry status to tourism sector. Other suggestions made by various associations included exemption of service tax for five years, revival of 80HHD of Income Tax Act, reduction in taxation on ATF, extension of inter-state vehicle taxation to pan-India, increase in service tax abatement for the domestic and adventure tour operators, scrapping of section 194-I of Income Tax Act and reduction in state luxury tax. But none of these points found any mention in the budget proposals. So if the Tourism Industry says that "the Government has failed to realise the importance of tourism as a means for the development of the economy of the country" there is some truth in it. It is beyond doubt that tourism industry is one of the pillars of Indian economy. It brings in a lot foreign exchange and generates a lot of employment opportunities. Travel and tourism can support short-term stimulus actions, namely those aimed at creating and sustaining jobs. But, in many countries, tourism has suffered as a result of lack of political and popular support, since its true significance has not been realised. India should not make that mistake.

G. Biju Krishnan Editor & Publisher

Below Edit

Verbatim

Ethical Challenges Pose Concern iven the present economic crisis, it is particularly important to implement the ethical principles stated in the Global Code of Ethics for Tourism. This is the main message to emerge from the recent meeting of the World Committee on Tourism Ethics. The Committee called on governments and tourism employers to recognize the ethical challenges posed by job losses; the decline in the quality of products and services and the impact of the crisis particularly with regards to small operators, tour guides, local service providers and communities. The Committee underlined that governments and employers in travel and tourism should "seek alternative and innovative actions to limit the loss of employment and the lowering of conditions and remuneration for existing jobs". In addition the Committee encourages public and private stakeholders to engage with employees who are directly affected and at risk of becoming unemployed.

Consultations with the relevant trade unions should take place wherever possible and should be held in line with the Conventions of the International Labour Organization (ILO) and other relevant international standards. The World Committee on Tourism Ethics further calls on governments: to minimise obstacles to travel such as restrictions, particularly with regards to people with disabilities and those affected by HIV; and to address measures which delay the issuance of visas, to reduce the cost and deal with complications which are slowly impinging on the rights of people to travel. Regarding the impact of influenza A (H1N1) governments are called upon not to introduce unnecessary restrictions on travel those are disproportionate to the actual threat and will harm an industry which makes an important contribution to the employment rate and economy of most countries and communities.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;

Tourism can contribute through carbon-clean operations, jobs in environment management and energy-efficient construction, whilst aiding countries to

restore their damaged economies in line with the Davos Declaration Process.

â&#x20AC;?

Taleb Rifai, Secretary-General, UNWTO

ASIAN TRAVELLER JULY 2009

OVERVIEW

Union Budget 2009

Travel and Tourism Industry Disappointed he travel and tourism industry in India have expressed disappointment at the Union Budget presented in the Parliament on July 6. The sector did not find the required mention in the budget speech by Union Finance Minister, Pranab Mukherjee. The travel and tourism industry was expecting some packages to sustain the business in view of the global meltdown. An amount of Rs 1000 crore has been earmarked for tourism but no specific measures aimed at bolstering tourism has been announced. "Absence of any reference to the Tourism industry which has been badly hit by the economic slowdown is disappointing", said Madhavan Menon, Managing Director of Thomas Cook India Limited. Alok Vaish, CFO, Yatra.com, said "With no announcements in and around the aviation or travel and tourism sector, the industry's hopes and expectations of air travel becoming more affordable with the inclusion of ATF

will be addressed taking into account the poor state of the industry due to slowdown in the market", said SP Jain, President, Hotel & Restaurant Association of Western India (HRAWI). Subhash Goyal, Former President, Indian Association of Tour Operators (IATO) has opined that the Service Tax exemption given to the exporters should have been extended to the tourism industry too. Sharat Dhall, MD, TripAdvisor expressed hope that that the allocation towards road and infrastructure would improve accessibility of destinations Rajji Rai, Madhavan Menon, across the country and bring Subhash Goyal Sharat Dhall President, MD, Thomas Cook Former President, MD, lesser known destinations onto TAAI India IATO TripAdvisor the tourist map. The allocation during the current year to National tourism industry the importance whole of travel industry. Despite Highways Authority of India (NHAI) that it deserves. "It would only be repeated requests from various fair to expect the government to aid for the National Highways Developsections of the industry made to ment Programme (NHDP) has been sectoral growth and capacity the Finance Minister, the industry expansion, so that we can maintain increased by 23 per cent. The Road has been ignored blatantly." Tourism industry, which is an the competitive edge as a costHe expressed hope that their untapped segment faces chalrecommendation for regularization effective tourist destination," he lenges as a result of lack of added. "We were hoping that long of State Luxury Tax, abolition of infrastructural facilities and tax pending demands like infrastrucService Tax, revival of 80HHD of ture status, tax exemptions, etc. Income Tax Act, reduction of taxes issues. in the 'declared goods' segment and the removal of the service tax for selling flight tickets through OTAs, remains unrealised". Travel Agents Association of India (TAAI) is also disappointed with the Budget. President of TAAI Rajji Rai, said, "Budget 2009 is a major disappointment for the

on ATF (which directly impacts airfares), etc. would be reviewed and appropriate mechanisms would be put in place to implement the same. M P Purushothaman, President, Federation of Hotel & Restaurant Associations of India (FHRAI) has said that the budget did not give the hospitality and

ITB Asia Buyer Registration Now Open Online Singapore from October 21 to 23. Messe Berlin (Singapore) is being positioned as "The Trade Show for the Asian Travel Market." To register for the buyers' programme, applicants simply select and complete the relevant online registration form - for MICE, corporate travel or leisure. Each applicant will be subject to a rigorous validation process led by Siti Banding, Assistant Director-Buyers Programme for Messe Berlin (Singapore). Over 800 buyers will be invited to attend ITB Asia this year. Whey Whey Ng., Siti Banding, This includes 350 top General Manager Assistant Directorperformers from last year Buyers Programme and hundreds of new ones. Buyers represent the MICE, leisure incentive trips, leisure groups or and corporate travel markets. "Our special events. The deadline for strategic objective this year is to buyer registration submissions is increase the quality and quantity of July 1. The second edition of the MICE, corporate travel, and group ITB Asia takes place at Suntec, he registration processes for buyers at the ITB Asia 2009 is open and can be done online at http://www.itbasiadelegates.com/ buyerprogramme.aspx for all industry professionals organising, negotiating or purchasing business travel, conferences, meetings,

JULY 2009 ASIAN TRAVELLER

leisure buyers," said Siti Banding. "We would particularly like to encourage buyer applications from China, Taiwan, Korea, Japan and the Middle East." Buyers who pass the validation process will be eligible for varying degrees of logistical support, mostly in transport and accommodation. In addition, they will have full access to all official ITB Asia events and social functions. Exhibitor registrations for ITB Asia 2009 are ahead of this time last year and are exceeding the expectations of Messe Berlin. Exhibitors can download the ITB Asia registration form at www.itbasia.com/exhibitorcentre Booth space at ITB Asia starts at US$2,890 per nine square metres. Each nine square metre package includes two exhibitor badges, a listing in the ITB Asia show catalogue and ITB Asia virtual

marketplace online, and one set of buyer appointments. Prices for small and medium-sized enterprises start at US$999. "Registrations have been going well, with Middle East exhibitors coming up nicely," said Messe Berlin (Singapore) General Manager, Whey Whey Ng. "Exhibitors who want to be part of Asia's leading B2B travel show for leisure, MICE and corporate travel need to move quickly to make sure their organizations secure the right locations in the hall." We aim to ensure that the quality and quantity of buyers meets and surpasses exhibitor needs. The nature of negotiations between buyers and exhibitors at ITB Asia will tell us if 2010 is going to be a year of recovery in the industry."

OVERVIEW

India Tourism Unveils '100-Days Agenda' ndia's Tourism Ministry has announced an agenda to be pursued during the first 100 days. The agenda stresses on human resource development in hospitality sector, reforms in hospitality education, domestic tourism and developing niche tourism products. It has been formally unveiled by Kumari Selja, Minister of Tourism, Government of India in New

Delhi recently in the presence of Minister of state for Tourism Sultan Ahmed and other senior officials of the Ministry. Impartation of skill training to youth in hospitality will be given priority. Institutes of Hotel Management (IHMs) will initiate a six to eight week fast track skill training programme for youth under twenty five years of age and have passed eighth standard. These programmes would be in food production and food and beverage services. It is expected that after this training, the participants would be able to get gainful employment in the growing

decentralized online counseling. The students now have a facility to undertake the on line counseling process at seven identified Institutes of Hotel Management (IHMs) all over the country i.e. Chandigarh, Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Guwahati, Chennai and Hyderabad. The academic calendar of the IHMs would now be converted into two semesters for each year to make it at par with other premier institutions of the country. To promote 'Domestic Tourism', the Ministry would release the generic Incredible India Campaign in the electronic media to create Kumari Selja Minister of Tourism, India awareness of the Indian Tourism product in the who pass the test would be given a certificate (recognizing domestic market. Road shows would also be organized in them as MoT certified service providers), which would make collaboration with private sector participation for them more employable in the promotion of domestic market tourism in six regions of From this year onward, North, South, West, Central, National Council of Hotel East and North-East. Management & Catering Developing niche tourism Technology (NCHMCT), in products would also be given collaboration with National priority. In this connection a Informatics Centre (NIC), is new policy guideline to implementing the process of hospitality and hotel sector. The Ministry has also initiated a Scheme for Certification of skills of those service providers who are working in the hospitality sector. Under the scheme, the service providers opting for certification would undertake a three-day orientation programme followed by test, which would be based on practical and viva voce. Those

promote 'caravan tourism' in India and facilitate the infrastructure required for caravan tourism would be announced. Another policy guideline, for promoting 'wellness tourism' would be announced soon. The policy would aim to leverage India's potential in traditional systems of wellness and medicines like Ayurveda, Siddha and Yoga and project India as a unique destination for spiritual healing. Wellness Tourism Road Shows would also be organized in overseas markets also. With a view to promote tourism in hilly and remote areas, guidelines would be framed to provide central financial assistance to states for construction of helipads at selected destinations which have tourism potential but lack good connectivity. In order to ensure the development of tourism takes place in a holistic and integrated way and to remove inter-state bottlenecks, four inter-state regional conferences would be held, at least once a year with Union Minister of Tourism or Minister of State of Tourism as Chairperson. The conference would be held for NorthCentral, East-Northeast, Southern and Western Region of India.

Entries Invited for UNWTO Online Photo Competition NWTO has announced its third annual online photo competition to commemorate World Tourism Day 2009 (under the theme 'Tourism Celebrating Diversity', hosted in Ghana, on 27 September 2009). The global online photo competition is open to all people of all ages. Its goal is to gather photos that reflect tourism as the vehicle that bridges cultures, intensifies understanding and fosters peace. The best photos will be featured in UNWTO News and website and exhibited during ITB Berlin Tourism Fair 2010 where the five winners will be announced. The first prize is a round trip and accommodation to Ghana and the four runners-up will be awarded with a digital camera. The deadline for participation is 30 January 2010. Other details are available at www.UNWTO.org/wtd/

Photo: Tourism Authority of Thailand

ASIAN TRAVELLER JULY 2009

PERSONALITY

Jaya Chandrahasan is the Executive Director of Kerala Travels Interserve Limited. Established in 1959, Kerala Travels Interserve Limited has been time and again reckoned for its pioneering endeavours in travel and tourism sectors. JAYA CHANDRAHASAN EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR KERALA TRAVELS INTERSERVE LTD. KERALA, INDIA

How did you become interested in hospitality business? It was by sheer chance that I came into the hospitality business. With a Masters Degree in Botany I was on the look out for a lecture post in some college. My marriage to Chandrahasan, one of the two partners of the family owned travel company Kerala Travels, was the

beginning of my career. With the advent of the computers and the CRS, I felt there was an increasing role for me. The formation of Interserve and the worldwide possibilities it opened up drew me more into the mainstream. I still feel that I am evolving only. What is your current role at your company? Being the Executive Director I see to the overall functioning of the various departments, but handle

HR and administrative matters in particular. HR, in my opinion has to be managed most skillfully in any organization. From the investor’s side also I take up a lot responsibilities like managing the board, looking at future growth plans, forecasting based on the current trends and inputs etc Tell us about your company. Kerala Travels the first Keralites owned Travel agency was founded by Late Shri Goda Varma Raja of Travancore Royal Family with my father in law late Shri P.G.C. Pillai in 1960.The partnership firm was later turned into a public limited company in the year 2000. With Interserve we were always able to forecast with great precision the emerging trends. Being a very active player in this setup we have many unique and novel tasks to handle. Technology and the changing trends create waves faster than expected. To overcome these waves is our mission. I am happy to say that we have been quite successful in this despite the current turbulent industry conditions. As a travel industry professional where would you like to see yourself ten years from now? In one sentence staying relevant and current so long as we are in this profession is my ambition. Ten years from now or even earlier, I would want to enrich the legacy of our organisation with much more than what I was fortunate to inherit, usher in a new management team who would have fewer tasks and more routes to success than what I had. Who or what has been the greatest influence in your professional life? My husband taught me the first lessons of this travel trade and since then he has been, as the old cliché goes, my friend philosopher and guide. His innovative ideas has always fascinated and interested me. His wholesome approach to facts and figures has always a touch of magic. I am yet to find a more dynamic role model than him. As a woman, what were the

challenges you had to face in your professional life? Women who compete like men are considered unfeminine. Women who emphasize family are considered uncommitted. So you see a right balancing of the two roles is very important. My advice to the young girls entering this field is - be professional. Update your product knowledge and skills time to time. Never forget to behave with dignity whatever your position may be. At the same time be empathetic to your customers and colleagues. There too a right balancing is required. Find enough time for your family and yourself. Nurture your hobbies you had before you started your career. It is essential for unwinding yourself when the going gets hard. What is the secret of your success? If I am a success, it is because I do unto others as I would want others to do for me - both at home and at work. I try to do my best at what is entrusted to me as a token of gratitude to for giving a chance to be in this beautiful world. What is your proudest moment (till date)? Out of many such moments I recollect two. One is when we were congratulated by late Sir Edmund Hillary after winning the national award for Thekkady Tiger Trail. The other was the precious days I could share escorting my favourite singer Sir Paul McCartney and his wife on a very confidential holiday tour of Kerala. Tell us about your family. My husband K.C Chandrahasan is the Managing Director of Kerala Travels Interserve Ltd. Our daughter Geethika is a MBA from INSEAD, France. A trained standby inheritor, maybe! She is married to Sudip. This is my immediate family. I have a large family from my husband’s side and mine. Combine this with the global family this trade has endowed us with, what more can you wish for. What are your hobbies? Reading with a capital ‘R’, dance and listening to music.

( For a complete version of the interview visit www.mediastepsindia.com/at )

JULY 2009 ASIAN TRAVELLER

Q & A

Suresh Kumar who has more than two decades experience in the hospitality industry, is currently the General Manager, Ramada Resort in Kochi SURESH KUMAR GENERAL MANAGER, RAMADA RESORT KOCHI, KERALA, INDIA

JULY 2009 ASIAN TRAVELLER

Tell us about your hotel and its USPs. Ramada Resort is a luxury resort in Cochin which is less than a year old. The resort has one of the most breathtaking location possible and undoubtedly the best in the city. Every cottage is on stilts and faces the lake. We have a meandering pool which is 98 meter long. We have the unique advantage of being a resort as well as being almost in the city. We have a very vibrant and young staff that are highly motivated and deliver consistent service which goes beyond a mere customer satisfaction to a "wow". Our outlets are very modern, contemporary and the most happening places. We have one of the largest banqueting spaces and faces the lake which has been a major attraction in garnering us business apart from our excellent food and service offerings. How do you position the Hotel in the market? We are a leisure destination primarily. We have one of the largest Ayurveda complexes with a dedicated in-house doctor. We also have a 9000 sq. ft Spa and Salon section which offers Javanese and Thai massages. Our weekends are usually packed with guests from the city. This has prompted us to market a certain F & B packages towards this so they can spend the whole day here, which in turns means higher spends. We are also the only resort which provides water sports like parasailing, banana boat rides, aqua orbing etc. How important is a Resort in developing a destination? Resorts make destinations. A resort is also self sustaining, in the sense a guest wanders out only if he is very particular. In Ramada Resort, you can comfortably spend three days; we have so many activities to keep the guests engaged, and still feel as fresh as the first day. Cochin is a gateway destination to other places like Kumarakom and Alappuzha. We intend to change that. We will be the place you want to stay if you are in Cochin. We have hosted FAM tours from Gujarat, Delhi and some from other countries, even China. We also do participate in trade shows as much as possible. Our Sales Team has gone to some of the Northern States to sell the resort twice in the last 4 months. How did you come to join the hospitality industry? I was basically persuaded by my friend Ashvin. When I passed out of IHM Chennai and was selected by Taj and send to Cochin. That

was my first and only job till 8 months ago. I have been and grew up with the Taj for the past 20 years. I have worked in different hotels in Taj starting with Taj Malabar. I was looking to relocate back to my home town due to some personal reasons, when the opportunity came up to work with Ramada Resort in Cochin. Tell us about your experience so far. I almost quit the industry with in the year I joined. I thought I had made a horrible mistake. Working hours were long, there were no more evening outs, I had to work on holidays, and when every one was celebrating a festival, I was busy even to breathe ! But my dad is the one who persuaded me to stay on. I have never regretted it. I had lots of unforgettable moments, and I guess everyone working in the hotel industry too. But the most unforgettable moment was my first promotion. I had the most satisfying sense of accomplishment. What plans - immediate and long term - do you have? Ramada Resort, Cochin is the first luxury resort of Synthite Industries hospitality division. We do have an apartment hotel called Riviera Suites. My immediate aim is to ensure that Ramada is the premier resort hotel in Cochin. And then I am aiming for the best resort title in India. We do have plans for expansion. Where would you like to see yourself, say, 10 years from now? I would like to be retired, but that will be a dream. But I do dream of running my own niche 10 room or less home stay in a remote location far away from the cities. Probably in the mountains. Now tell us about your family. I met my wife, Amrin, at Taj Malabar where she was working as Sales Executive. That was 15 years ago. We have two boys. Anand, brilliant at drawing and Harsh, who is into skating. Once we had our first child my wife quit working and has been caring and guiding both our children. Both of us believe in the motto "family first, everything else is secondary". Tell us about your hobbies and other interests? I love spending time with my wife and kids. Family time together is something I cherish. I like to drive and see the country. I listen to both heavy metal music and Indian Classical fusion. I own the entire collection of Soundscapes. I am an avid Formula 1 fan. Which is your favorite destination? I am yet to explore most of India. I have been to some of the eastern countries. But the place I want to see is the Scandinavian countries. My wife would like to take trip in the Palace on Wheels.

COLUMN

he equal sign '=' was invented by the Welshman Robert Recorde in 1557. The two tiny lines one over another are of same length and thereby they signify equality. How many of our mathematics teachers had taught this or this way? Anything frigid ( as in refrigerator) is cold and what is not cold, or in other words hot or dry, would be a+frigid (afrigid) and thence came the dry and hot continent's name Africa. How many of our geography teachers had taught this? The growing moon is called crescent. But how many of our science teachers have told us that the name is from the word 'increasing' (increase - crescent) because the shape grows or increases in phases. Or how many of them added to our knowledge that the moon more than half but not full as yet is called 'gibbous'? While teaching the English alphabet, how many of our language teachers have told us that 'alpha' and 'beta' make up the word alphabet and they are the first two letters of the Greek language? While English has twenty six letters, Greek has only twenty four. With two letters less, John Keats still Greek has more than one 'O'. They are 'omicron' and 'omega'. The small or micro O is Omicron and the big or mega O is Omega. Why did they not teach that to us?! Now let us spare the teachers as such and move onto the various professionals. Why a bank is called bank? I have checked with a lot many senior banking officials. None of them seemed to know that the word 'bank' comes from French 'banc' meaning just a bench. In the early days, the moneylenders or dealers used to keep a bench before them to keep the coins or counters on for their trade. Thus the word bank came from the bench. I had quizzed some of the medical officer candidates during my HR stint in the airline as to what

V DURAIKKANNAN

Sir Philip Sydney

All teachers just teach the subjects but no one teaches how to learn and that explains the lack of depth in understanding or appreciation of knowledge

JULY 2009 ASIAN TRAVELLER

pictures on the blackboard and the words muscle and dean explain the tenses of English. There actually meant or how they originated. The qualified doctors always would be just a bird with wings flapped out midair (the bird flies drew a blank to my surprise. Muscle is from Latin 'mus' meaning present simple), a bird nestling down a tree (the bird is sitting a mouse and 'muscle' is a small present continuous), a bird just left mouse (as you flex your arm you the branch (the bird has flown away can see your muscle running up - present perfect). and down like a mouse!). There During my graduation days, I was one senior medical official for was a commuter by train that every ten student doctors in the would run for three hours to reach olden days. That is how the name our college town. There was always dean came into being - from 'decanus' or 'decem' meaning ten. The fact emerges clear that all our teachers just teach us the subjects but no one teaches us how to learn. That explains the lack of depth in our understanding or appreciation Charles Dickens of knowledge. The one wayward looking, bedraggled Australian Nobel laureate Patrick person in his early thirties or so White (1912-90) very aptly told: 'I have forgotten what all I have been traveling with us in the same train. taught. But I remember everything He would be seated on the floor in the passage way at the exit and that I have learned!' always reading a book (obviously Unfortunately the vocation of traveling ticketless). He would teaching for many is not by choice come with us and get off, go but by default. The moment they somewhere and again in the become teachers, many of them cease to be learners. I had seen my evening he would be back with us for the return. One day as I was lecturer of English poetry still peering at the book he was clutching his sepia notes on Sir reading, he just asked me whether Philip Sydney which he took down I had read Charles Dickens. Even as a student some two decades before I could answer, he went on: before. The very word 'teach' is 'Dickens' works are mostly autobiofrom the word 'token' ('taecan') meaning the teacher's job was just graphical. But his most autobiographical of all is David to show, present it to the student Copperfield. and let him learn further, from the Because he intended the book token of knowledge he had reto be his near autobiography, he ceived. Talking about teachers, I cannot wanted to convey it even in the title of the book. So much so he but cite my English teacher in my reversed his own initials CD backwoods school where our (Charles Dickens) into DC and then medium of instruction was the coined the titular hero's name as local tongue, Tamil. My English David Copperfield! I still revere that teacher, late Mr.Rangarajan died weirdo of a man as one of my very young just as Keats (Keats lived only for twenty-six years). But teachers. the way he helped us learn the language still stands us in good stead (I was his student in 1969). He used to draw a Robert Recorde Patrick White series of

THE LEELA

The Leela Enters Rajasthan he Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts has announced its entry into the state of Rajasthan, with the soft opening of The Leela Palace Kempinski Udaipur on May 15, 2009. A pooja was organised on April 12, 2009 to mark a new beginning for The Leela, with close friends of Captain C.P. Krishnan, Chairman of The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts, in attendance. The celebrations unfolded with the lighting of the auspicious lamp by Shriji, the Maharana Arvind Singh Mewar of Udaipur, Deepak Parekh, Chairman of HDFC, along with Captain Krishnan Nair. The Leela Palace Kempinski Udaipur has 80 luxuriously appointed rooms and suites. The strategic positioning of the hotel ensures that each room has a panoramic view of Lake Pichola, as well as some of the most beautiful heritage attractions in the city all set against the

backdrop of the majestic Aravalli ranges. The elegant and contemporary interiors of the rooms and suites are embellished with the design and artistry of the region.

The local architectural nuances are evident in the quaint corbel door arches and grand domes of the palace. Thekri, the ancient Rajasthani art form where intri-

t took us 11 years of hard acquiring about five acres of land. work to launch the Leela Palace We had to face problems from Udaipur - a property situated on different directions including the the Pichola Lake. We have taken local authorities. We initially engaged over the project after a couple of a Californian architect for the project reputed groups have given up due and because of the time lapse he to different difficulties. I always left. Later we gave the project to an have an affinity for architect from Bangkok Udaipur as it has who was hired for exotic locations, old making the master plan mansions of the to renovate our erstwhile Mewar property at Kovalam in kingdom, the lake, Kerala, which was also the temples, the lake in a stagnant condition. palace, the city He started working palace etc. We had from the scratch after to pay a very heavy pulling down everything price for the land Captain C P Krishnan Nair including the and we started Chairman, foundations. We also The Leela Group construction af ter employed an interior

cately chiselled mirrors are embedded in plaster is the predominant theme of the palace's interiors. Gold-leafed floral and paisley motifs, mother of pearl artefacts and inlaid hand-crafted white marble further add to its ornate exquisiteness. designer from Malaysia. Together they brought this wonderful property into reality and we were ready to open it in April. We wanted to have Maharana of Udaipur to formally open the property. In the presence about 200 specially invited guests the Maharana along with Deepak Barik, lighted the lamp. Although everything at Leela Palace Udaipur is brand new, everything has a feel of ancient Udaipur. The paintings, wall paintings and the stone works are marvelously done. At the ITB in Berlin early this year, there were many people who wanted to know about the destination. (As told to Asian Traveller) Also see page - 30

ASIAN TRAVELLER JULY 2009

MONSOON

â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Raindrops Keep Falling On My Head, They Keep Falling!â&#x20AC;&#x2122; s a British tourist coming to Kerala during the monsoon, I was worried that my experience would be somewhat dampened by the weather. I felt a little glum when I was told when booking my flight, "You do realize that you are going during monsoon season? There will be nothing to do but get wet! Tourists stay away during this time." I took the opportunity to chat to the man seated next to me on my incoming flight, to try to find a glimmer of hope and raise my enthusiasm. This man was from Mumbai, and was keen to share his view. He asked me if I had packed my wellies (waterproof footwear) and said that I will only enjoy it if I particularly like the rain. He went on to say that I would probably not see any other tourists due to the weather. With this in mind and my previous warnings I was under the impression that the rain was unrelenting, and that I would either be stuck indoors or swimming in the streets! I landed in Thiruvananthapuram, where I would be based for my month in Kerala to find very warm, humid and dry weather. For the next few days I was surprised to find the image I had of heavy continuous rain was certainly not the case. At the weekend I had planned a trip to the backwaters of

A Chantelle Maria McLean was a little worried when she was told that her vacation in Kerala would coincide with the rainy season there. But she was in for a pleasant surprise.

JULY 2009 ASIAN TRAVELLER

Alappuzha in one of the houseboats, one of the many exciting things I had chosen to do while going through my Kerala guidebook. On Friday I had enjoyed glorious sunshine and kept my fingers tightly crossed for the weather to last for the trip on Saturday. Much to my dismay I woke to find a rather overcast sky, with erratic bursts of rain. With umbrella at the ready I made my way to the houseboat with the other four girls in my group. The crew greeted us with happy faces and a tender coconut each to drink from, complete with pink straws. Tucked up inside this beautiful houseboat we sat and admired the view as we peacefully floated down the backwaters to the sound of the light monsoon rain pitterpatter on the sides of the boat. Soon, the heavens opened to produce a heavy downpour of rain, the sky having a magical glow. Vegetation came to life as it happily received the rain, a lush green in colour alongside vibrant flowers that passed us by. Even to watch the drops of rain splash in the water and create wonderful patterns and sounds was a joy to behold. There was an abundance of beauty everywhere I looked. We spent our time for the first few hours in silence, perched by the side of the boat looking

through the lenses of our cameras to capture some Kerala magic. In the twilight the sky darkened as we chatted in our cosy enclosure and shared stories over an authentic Keralan meal. Suddenly there was a great deal of excitement as the crew hurriedly pulled down the

sheets to protect us from the driving rain. We giggled as we were treated to flashes of lightening and the tremendous roaring of thunder. This did not stop the driver, who was soaked from head to toe as he happily endured the rain to steer us inland. An hour later the mood settled, as did the weather as we slept in our enclosures. Our trip came to an end as we enjoyed our one hour journey back to base in the morning, with contrasting bright blue skies and sunshine. I can't help but think that the splendor of the monsoon had made our trip a truly unforgettable one, full of delights that we would not have otherwise seen.

HOSPITALITY

Sarovar Hotels & Resorts Charts

Best Western Plans 15 New Franchisee Properties in India

International Expansion S B arovar Hotels & Resorts (the leading hotel management company in India) has announced the signing of a first class hotel with 5 star services and facilities in Nairobi, the capital city of Kenya. The management agreement for Ole Sereni, the 134 room hotel has been signed with Nairobi based Placid View Properties Limited. The proposed hotel will commence operation by July 2009. This hotel will add to Sarovar's international portfolio of hotels. Commenting on the signing Anil Madhok, Managing Director, Sarovar Hotels & Resorts said, "Estimates show that Nairobi has less than 1500 quality hotel rooms which cannot cope with any sudden rise in demand from huge conferences and large tourist arrivals during peak season. Ole Sereni will offer unmatched services and quality accommodation to individuals visiting Kenya".

est Western Hotels, world's leading hotel chain which provides marketing, reservations and operational support to nearly 4,000 independently-owned hotels and operates member hotels in 80 countries, will establish 15 new franchisee properties in India by the end of 2009. With an eye on the 2010Commonwealth Games in mind, the hotel chain has decided to focus on North India in its expansion plans. Managed by Cabana Hotel Management Pvt Ltd, the hotel chain already has 11 hotels under its banner in India.

Mahindra Holidays Plans Foray into Hospitality Education ahindra Holidays & Resorts India Ltd (MHRIL) mulls setting up of their own hospitality training centre in the future to meet the demand for skilled manpower in the hospitality segment. Hospitality education and training is one such area, which the company intends to venture using the funds raised through the Initial Public Offering (IPO). Mahindra Holidays announced the launch of its Initial Public Offering recently to fund the companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s future expansions.

Ginger Hotel Opens Up in Guwahati Ginger Hotel, a TATA enterprise has come up at IHM campus near Borbari in Guwahati. The hotel was inaugurated by Assam Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi on June 16. The hotel in Guwahati is the 19th hotel which Ginger has added to the fast growing national portfolio. Speaking on the occasion, Gogoi said the State needed more good hotels to woo foreign tourists. "We need such hotels for NRIs and foreigners to feel comfortable here. This will also boost our tourism industry. I thank the Tata group for setting up the hotel in Assam."

Prabhat Pani, Chief Executive Officer and Director, Roots Corporation Limited, a subsidiary of the Indian Hotels Company Limited, which operates Ginger, a first-of-its kind category of 'Smart Basics' hotels, said that the new hotel would immensely benefit the state. "We are keen to invest in the North East region to explore its potential," he said. The air-conditioned 70-room hotel is equipped with all modern facilities such as electronic locks, a work area, a 20-inch LCD television with satellite channels, direct-dial telephone including STD facility,

mini fridge, tea/coffee maker and posturepedic mattresses. Other guest facilities include a conference room with a capacity of 80-100 people, two party lawns, a cyber cafĂŠ, gymnasium, automatic check in kiosk, ATM, vending machines, digital safe deposit boxes as well as wi-fi connectivity in the public areas and individual rooms. "Indigenously designed and developed by Indian Hotels Company Limited, Ginger Hotels characterize freshness . The hotels are simple, unique, reasonable, basic, very different, light-hearted, Indian and innovative. Our hotels have created a new category in the domestic hospitality landscape, while giving a major fillip to Indian tourism and other ancillary industries," said Pani, Driven by the mission, respect for

people and nature and passion for the stakeholders, the primary objective behind Ginger Hotels is to provide a superior product offering and consistent experience to travellers, far beyond the present offerings in the industry, he said. According to Pani, Ginger Hotels plans to increase the number of hotels to 30 by December 2010. Presently, Ginger Hotels are in New Delhi, Ahmedabad, Ludhiana, Goa, Durg, Haridwar, Bhubaneshwar, Puducherry, Pune, Nashik, Thiruvanathapuram, Pantnagar (Rudrapur), Agartala, Vadodara and Durgapur. Soon it will enter Chennai and Jamshedpur. "These locations have been identified after detailed studies across various parameters such as potential of the market, clusters of clientele and peak periods, among others," Pani said. Coming close on the heels of Ginger is a five-star hotel in the capital city which will be a joint venture project between the Government of Assam and Taj Group. ASIAN TRAVELLER JULY 2009

NEWSLINE

'Sri Lanka Small Miracle' Unveiled ri Lanka Tourism officially launched its new logo and tagline "Sri Lanka Small Miracle". In keeping with this theme, a series of activities and events have been planned in 2011 to lure in more tourists to the island. Addressing the guests and media, President Mahinda Rajapaksa said: "Having regained peace, my vision for development of tourism has become a reality. The rebranding is an integral part of the repositioning strategy of Sri Lanka Tourism, and comes at an opportune time with the dawning of a new era of peace in Sri Lanka, where there are much expectations and opportunities in the tourism industry." Dileep Mudadeniya, Managing Director, Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau and Bernard Goonetilleke, Chairman, Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau were also present on the occasion.

Behind every successful professional there is a family which stands by him or her. With out an understanding spouse and a supportive family it is difficult to succeed in today's highly competitive professional world which demands a lot of your time energy and attention. But this support seldom comes to the limelight. In this section ASIAN TRAVELLER introduces the families behind successful persons who work in the travel and tourism industry. aniela Andrea met Sanjay Sharma while working at Sheraton Oman. They got married in 1993 at Delhi and have been living in Kerala for the last eight years. A qualified Hotel Management

Daniela Andrea Sharma with husband Sanjay Sharma and son Nicklas Sharma

professional with professional experience Daniela is now a home maker and supports Sanjay Sharma, who is currently the General Manager at Le Meridien, Kochi in Kerala. "Though, I do not involve in the day to day affairs of his business, I always extend my wholehearted support as and when needed",

JULY 2009 ASIAN TRAVELLER

2011 Declared as Visit Sri Lanka Year ri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapaksa has declared 2011 as Visit Sri Lanka Year while talking at the launch of the new image of Sri Lanka Tourism in Colombo. "We can now add Passikudah and Trincomalee, up to Kokilai Lagoon in the East, as major tourist attractions, and many locations in the North too, as part of the Uthuru Vasanthaya - the development agenda for the North," he said.

people. Meeting interesting people isn't the only reason the industry has been tagged with glamour label. There are also endless travel opportunities, stunning workplaces in exotic locations, quick career progression, healthy salaries and a wide range of interesting jobs. Though she does not like the says Daniela. "The most I like about laid back attitude and lack of him is his extreme simplicity, aggressiveness of Keralans she is sincerity and the positive attitude very much impressed by the towards life. He is a man of great natural beauty, equable climate, adventure and likes to take challenges in life. He is a complete achievements in the literacy and educational field and the high family man and loves to spend his status women enjoys in the society. free time with us. He is loyal and "Apart from the above, People over affectionate and I can say that he here are extremely helpful and cois the perfect better half for me". operative. We did not have any But there are a few things which single bad experience for the last she is not happy with her husband's job. "Though, termed as eight years." Where do you go for vacations? a glamour industry by outsiders, I We have travelled to almost all feel so otherwise. Having worked in the hotel industry for many years, I nook and corners of the world. It is feel that these are some of the key a difficult task to point out a single favorite location. However, I would cons of working in hospitality and prefer to travel and explore the tourism industry. "If you don't like natural beauty of India with my early starts or late finishes, then family when my son is grown up. the hotel industry may not be for you. Working for demanding clients Hobbies... I am a complete outdoor and management is certainly a difficult task; the pressure of guest person. I play Golf on weekends with family and friends. My and management expectations is experience in the hospitality more stressful than you ever industry and being lived and imagined" But "pressure and deadlines are intrinsic elements of travelled in different parts of the world, has always prompt me to the industry and the best hotel experiment with the traditional and workers thrive on conquering the challenges and obstacles placed in local cuisine wherever we go. Apart from Golf and Cooking, I love the way of personal and company music, travelling and being with my objectives," she adds. son, Nicklas Sharma. What you like about your Daniela loves cooking and husband's job? One thing I like about the hotel would like to experiment and always try to learn different industry is that it offers you the varieties and local cuisines. chance to meet a wide a range of

SIKKIM TRAVELLER

Sikkim Declares Year 2010 as

Sikkim Tourism Year s part of its efforts to offer every possible facilities and new promotional tourism packages to the tourists Sikkim Tourism has declared the year 2010 as 'Sikkim Tourism Year'. Dr. Pawan Kumar Chamling, Chief Minister of Sikkim has made the formal declaration recently in Gangtok. The Department of Tourism in joint collaboration with the tourism stakeholders, investors, hoteliers,

be designed to promote 'Religious Tourism' considering the need for travel of each segment of tourists be it Hindu, Buddhist or Christian. Sikkim is already in the list of Buddhist circuit. There are a number of Buddhist and Tibetan monasteries in Sikkim. The world's tallest statue of Guru Padsambhava, the patron saint of Sikkim, which stands 135 feet tall attracts a lot of visitors. The 'Solophok' at Namchi, South Sikkim has the replica of the famous 'Char Dhaam' of India. Located at an impeccable location commanding a panoramic view of the surrounding hills and mountains, this Dr. Pawan Kumar Bhim Dhungyel Chamling, Minister for Tourism holy place of Hindu Chief Minister, Sikkim Sikkim worship would tour operators, travel agents and quench the thirst of many Indian other tourism related bodies of and foreign religious travellers. Sikkim would be organizing various 'Sikkim Tourism Year' would tourism activities. Packages would also lay emphasis on the promotional aspects of other forms of Tourism in respect of adventure and sports tourism, jungle tourism, village tourism and so on. The Adventure and Sports Tourism would offer rich exploration possibilities in fields like - mountain biking, river rafting, trekking, mountaineering, para gliding,

nature trail and many more. S. P. S. Bhadauria IFS, Commissioner-cum-Secretary, Tourism, has taken steps to encourage 'Jungle Tourism'. 'Jungle Tourism' provides the visitors with the opportunity to spend a night amidst the peace and serenity of the jungle in traditionally built 'log-huts'. Under the guidance of an expert they can set up camp-fires, go trekking, take a nature trail and conduct educational survey of medicinal plants, herbs, trees etc without posing any threat to the Mother Nature. Sikkim Forest Tourism would also open small fast food outlets selling different fish preparations in association with the Fisheries Department of West Bengal Forest Tourism Development Corporation. Tourists are nowadays more interested in exploring rural areas. Bhim Dhungyel, the new Tourism Minister of Sikkim and N.K. Subba, Chairman, Sikkim Tourism Development Corporation have given emphasize to the capacity building training programme to the educated unemployed youths in rural villages of Sikkim. The idea is to train them in activities like organizing home-stay accommodations in traditionally built houses, exhibiting local customs and traditions, handicraft and handloom items, ethnic cuisines, art forms, festivals and

S.P.S. Bhadauria IFS, Commissioner-cumSecretary

N.K. Subba Chairman, STDC

act as a guide in local places of tourist interest. At present, Hee-Bermiok Tourism Development Society under the patronage of N.K. Subba in West Sikkim have encouraged home-stay accommodation along with other aforesaid facilities. Maniram Village in Namchi, Kabi and Pakyong are other such places

which provide Rural Tourism activities. The introduction of new tourist taxis from airport and New Jalpaiguri Railway Station to Gangtok with a view to provide a comfortable fleet to the tourists have been started under the initiative of the Tourism Minister and STDC Chairman. The Department of Tourism would also be providing mountain bikes and motor cycles with gear or without gear to the tourists

(on hire) for their ease and convenience of local sightseeing or touring. The year 2010, would also see grand tourism festivals organized at different parts of Sikkim like in

M. K. Pradhan, Dy. Director (Admin. Protocol)

Namchi Tourism Mahotsav, Aritar Tourism Festival and Hee-Bermiok Tourism Festival.. Sikkim Tourism plans to give wide publicity to the Sikkim Tourism Year in order to capture the tourists arriving from all over the globe to witness the Common Wealth Games 2010, which will be held in Delhi. ASIAN TRAVELLER JULY 2009

HERITAGE

Ode to Majuli

JULY 2009 ASIAN TRAVELLER

nature. But even their survival is at stake. While the pressure on land has increased Md. Sabir Nishat tremendously, with the population increasing from 35,000 in 1901 to 1,35,378 in 1991, the island's total area has shrunk from around 2,82,165 acres (according to a report of J.H. Mills in 1853) to hardly about 886 sq. km due to unabated erosion caused by the Brahmaputra river. Infrastructural facility has been hit hard by recurring floods. The embankments form the present road network; any breach in the embankments disrupts communication as last year's unprecedented

Photos: UB Photos

Areas Commission of the IUCN visited the island to study the prevailing situation in connection with the proposed nomination of the island as a World Heritage Site. In his report to the UNESCO and the World Heritage Committee, Jefferies observed, the history of the cultural and religious aspects of Majuli are, unlike its biodiversity value - which would need surveys, Majuli, the world's largest inhabited riverine spread over a range of sessions. island which has once again failed to make it Jefferies suggested UNESCO to to UNESCO's World Heritage Site list is consider asking the IUCN to conduct a feasibility assessment facing serious threats to its existence, says aimed at integrating the World Md. Sabir Nishat Heritage nomination with the establishment of protected area t's a case of so near but yet so oldest and largest seats of Vaishnavite culture in Majuli. Singh management principles and far. Majuli, the world's largest objectives - as provided by the while trying to assuage the hurt inhabited riverine island and IUCN Category 5 - Protected feelings of satradhikars of leaving the seat of Vaishnavite culture, Landscapes. the river island to nature's wrath, again failed to find a place in the Meanwhile, the World Heritage World Heritage Site list of UNESCO went to the extent of saying that he Committee of UNESCO in its 32nd would make it a mission to make much to the chagrin of the resisession in Quebec, Canada has the dossier on the island all the dents of the river island fighting more attractive before presenting it asked the Centre to gather more with their back against all odds information on the satras in Majuli to the UN for the heritage tag. against the fury of floods and Island. The committee sought The head priests who are erosion caused by the spearheading the movement 'Save information on the way the satras Brahmaputra river almost every have influenced and continue to Majuli' are demanding scientific year. surveys by technical experts and a influence the pattern of Majuli Sensing despair and despondlong-term plan for the protection of landscape patterns. ency all-round, Prime Minister, Dr. It also wanted more information Manmohan Singh, who represents the island besides construction of on the overall interaction between Assam in the Rajya Sabha, tried to a national highway from Kamalabari ghat in Majuli to north the people and nature in Majuli. apply the soothing balm when he Among other things, the committee visited Jorhat last year. He vowed to Lakhimpur town. wanted India to create an inventory Also unleashing the campaign protect Majuli both geographically of architecture and spatial patterns for protecting the island from the and culturally at any cost. fury of the Brahmaputra is Dr Arun in the landscape associated with Singh met the 24 satradhikars the satras and their 'movable' (heads of Vaishnavite monasteries) Kumar Sarma, Member of Parliaheritage. ment from the State, who is also who, too, have pitched in their Majuli with its sublime and the Chairman of the Majuli Island serene atmosphere provided the Protection and Development Council (MIPDC). The MIPDC, which backdrop for the historic "Moni has been campaigning for Majuli's kanchan sanjog" between Assam's pioneer Vaishnavite saint Srimanta recognition as a World Heritage Sankaradeva and his famous Site since 1995, has documented disciple Madhabdeva in the 15th the rich natural and cultural century. Ever since that meeting of heritage of the river island, which the great minds and the subseincludes 69 photographs and two quent establishment of satras that satellite images. followed, Majuli emerged as the A team of experts from the efforts to save the island from crowning glory of Vaishnavite Directorate of National Archives being gobbled up by the mighty culture in Assam. These monastervisited the river island to preserve Brahmaputra, and assured them ies, the treasure house of Satriya in microfilm the various facets of that 'funds will be not be a conculture and home to the Satriya straint' and the Government would Majuli, including the Vaishnavite dance and traditional Bhaona satras (monasteries) which date do all that was required to get the (mask) theatre, today face the fury back to the 16th century. World Heritage Site tag for the of perennial floods and heavy soil Bruce E. Jefferies, a Protected island. Area Management Specialist and a erosion. Of the 65 monasteries, "We hope the Government will only 31 withstood the fury of the member of the World Protected keep its promise this time," said Pitambar Deva Goswami, head priest of Auniati Satra, one of the

deluge submerged 190 of the total 243 villages affecting 1.7 lakh people. It is against this gloomy backdrop, Assam Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi has prevailed upon Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh to release Rs.40 crore from the Centre to carry out anti-erosion measures and for rehabilitation of the flood-hit people. Gogoi has also announced Rs.100 crore from the State Government to Majuli for anti-erosion measures. Gogoi has asked Jorhat district officials to make an action plan for flood management in Majuli with expertise from Dibrugarh University, IIT Guwahati and experts from outside Assam. As things stand today, Majuli's hope hinges, as succinctly put by Dhiren Bora of Kahargaon, a nondescript village in the riverine island: "Recognition from the world body coupled with assistance from the State and Central Governments can only save Majuli and us from being swallowed by the Brahmaputra River." For the full version of this article visit www.mediastepsindia.com

NEWSLINE

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Book on India Tourism Released

Branding India - An Incredible Story, a book on India Tourism written by Amitabh Kant IAS, Principal Secretary and Special Commissioner - Industries has been released by Shashi Tharoor, Minister of State for External Affairs by handing over a copy to Kodiyeri Balakrishnan, Minister for Tourism, Kerala, at Thiruvananthapuram recently. Also present were Elamaram Kareem, Minister for Industries, Kerala, P. V. Abdul Wahab MP. and Amitabh Kant IAS.

Sarath Sasi, Deputy Sales Manager, Taj Green Cove Resort, Kovalam his is my ninth year in tourism industry. After completing my studies from IHM, Kovalam, (from where I got a degree in Ho tel Management and catering Technology) I joined The Avenue Regent, Cochin. From then on I have worked with the Le Meridien, Cochin; Leela Bangalore and now for the past two years I am with the Taj Green Cove Resort, Kovalam. Being in sales always throws new challenges day in and day out. From meeting guests to countering the competition to formulating strategies for the hotel, all these enthuse me daily. You are also seen as the face of the hotel to the outside world. In this present scenario of global meltdown and cut throat competition, sales becomes the life line of any industry and to steer this department, I think is the greatest challenge of them all. My inspiration has always been mine seniors in the industry. To top the list is Sanjay Sharma General Manager of Le Meridien, whose has single handedly created wonders for MICE business in the state and Thomas Rulin, who is considered the face of Taj in Kerala TV is my favorite past time. I do not like to strain myself by watching TV soaps or crazy reality shows. Discovery, National Geographic and NDTV take up my major relaxation time. Going for short biking trips is also at the top agenda for filling the free time. I love cars and fascination for this had made me drive almost to all parts of the country. Formula one is a sport that I have been following since child hood. And my sports hero is, of course, Michel Schumacher. I have travelled quite a lot through out India, but nothing comes even close to Kerala Wayanad always amuses me every time I go there. But when it comes to my dream holiday - it is a calm and quite place, preferably a hill station ideally with no mobile range! After my college it was my dream to work for Taj, which is synonymous with Indian Hospitality. I went for an interview for the post of front office assistant at the Taj Malabar, in Kochi and to my agony I was told that I did not have the credentials and charm to work for the Taj. Totally shattered, but determined to get to my goal, I worked hard with other organizations and slowly but surely started climbing the professional ladder with a dream of working for Taj some day. Now I am proud that I achieved my goal and have shown to this organization that I am an integral part of it. My father inspired me to take up a job in hospitality sector. During the early part of my career when there were a few setbacks he supported me and I will always remember his words that "the world does not end with this failure and there is much more that you can conquer". The unforgettable moment in my life is when I gave my first salary to my father. I had a feeling that I have truly grown up to take the challenges in life.

ASIAN TRAVELLER JULY 2009

TAMIL NADU TRAVELLER

Folk Colours of Tamil Nadu Dr. S. BAKTHAVATCHALAM amil Nadu is one among the Indian states which has a great and long history as well as a deep rooted tradition portraying a number of folk arts and crafts. Along with the vivid tourist attractions including destinations, wildlife and other attractions these attractions adds value to the tourism potential of the state. These traditions and skills which have been passed by generations are well preserved with the ethos, aesthetic values and melody of the respective regions. There are a number of folk music and dances of Tamil Nadu and each region has its on variety and versions which makes the number very high. These are mostly associated with festivals and community rituals. Some of the renowned dance forms include: Karagaattam or Karagam, one of the most famous ones is a folk dance which is done after balancing with water pots balanced on their heads. It is performed in praise of the rain goddess Mari Amman and river goddess, Gangai Amman. It has two divisions; Aatta Karagam and Sakthi Karagam. Aatta Karagam it is danced with decorated pots on the head which symbolises joy and entertainment, while Sakthi Karagam is performed in temples.

JULY 2009 ASIAN TRAVELLER

Kummi which is another important village dances usually performed during temple festivals, Pongal, the harvest festival, etc. is very much ancient. It is said to be originated before musical instruments were made and the performers keeps the rhythm going by clapping their hands. Performed by women standing in a circle, Kummi has varieties like Poonthatti Kummi, Deepa Kummi, Kulavai Kummi, Kadir Kummi, Mulaipari Kummi etc. Kavadi Aattam is very much common in Tamil Nadu and has

hooves of the horse and also wields a sword or a whip giving the feel of a warrior on horseback. This folk dance needs much training and skill. Similar dances include Kaalai Attam (dressed as bull), Karadi Attam (dressed as bear) and Aali Aattam (dressed as a demon), Vedala Aattam (masked demons) etc. Kolaattam, an ancient village art is performed by women with two sticks held in each hand, beaten to make a rhythmic noise. Pinnal Kolaattam is danced with

and Periyar Districts. This dance is performed by men only, during temple festivals and the only musical instruments used is the ankle-bells. Kai Silambu Attam is performed in temples during Navaratri festival in which the dancers wear anklebells and hold anklets or Silambu in their hands. The noise of the silambu and the various stepping styles makes it quite become the identity of Tamil Nadu. unique. It is more of a ritual dance than Bagavatha Nadanam is perfolk. The ancient Tamils carried the formed inside a temple and is for offerings to the gods tied on the worshiping Lord Krishna during ends of a long pole, which is Ramanavami and Gokulashtami. balanced on the shoulders which is Pambu Attam or snake dance symbolised by this artform. Nowamostly popular in the south of the days the short poles are made and state where the snake is considon top of it, bamboo strips are bent ered a protective divinity. This like a half-moon, covered with dance is performed by young girls saffron cloth and further decorated dressed in a tight-fighting costume on the sides with peacock feathers. designed like the snake-skin. The There are many dances in performer simulates the movewhich people dress up as animals. ments of the snake, writhing and Mayil Attam is the most prominent creeping, at times making quick one in the segment. It is done by biting movements with head and girls dressed as peacocks. The blue hands. dress has peacock feathers Kali Attam also known as attached to it and a glittering head- coloured ropes which the women Koladi, Kolkali, Kambadi Kali or hold in their hands, the other of dress with a beak makes it comKolaattam, Sevai Attam, Puli which are tied to a tall pole. With plete. This beak can be opened Attam, Urummi Attam, Ottan planned steps, the women skip and closed from within dress. Koothu, Kamandi or Kaman over each other, which forms Poikkal Kudirai Aattam is another Pandigai, Oyilattam, Devaraattam, intricate lace-like patterns in the version of the dances in which the Theru Koothu, Thappaattam, dancer has a synthetic replica of a ropes. Oyil Kummi is a peculiar ancient Chakkai Attam, Kazhai Kothu also horse's body attached to her on include popular folk dances of the his/her hips. The dancer also dons folk dance form popular in Trichi, state. Salem, Dharmapuri, Coimbatore wooden legs which sound like the

TAMIL NADU TRAVELLER

Match-Making Tours For Singles

TTDC Woos Government Employees

amil Nadu Tourism Development Corporation has come out with a unique tourism package to explore a hitherto untapped segment. The state-run tourism corporation has introduced an innovative spiritual tour - Thirumana Thiruthala Suttrula which will cover 11 holy places traditionally frequented by people keen to have their wish to be married fulfilled. To be launched in the first week of July, the tour will cover Mudichur, Thiruvidanthai, Thirumananjeri, Thirucherai, Madurai, Thirukarukavur, Thiruveezhamazhalai, Nallurkalyana Sundareswarar, Nachiyarkoil and Uppiliyappankoil. TTDC will organise accommodation and the poojas all for the cost of Rs 1,800 (for single rooms) and Rs 1,400 (for twin sharing rooms).

n a bid to beef up business in the slack season, Tamil Nadu Tourism Development Corporation is also trying to attract government employees eligible for leave travel concession (LTC) by offering custom-made packages. The department is also planning to design a couple of niche circuits that will have the potential to draw tourists round the year. Sources said plans were on to develop a Jain temple circuit. Every year, Tamil Nadu Tourism Development Corporation (TTDC) gets a steady flow of government employees visiting tourist spots across the state. However, this year not many

were able to enjoy their LTC breaks because rooms at tourist spots and tours were booked by regular tourists during the season. Now, employees of Metrowater and TN Electricity Board have booked more than 35 tours on different dates spread over June and July. Traditional summer destinations like Ooty, Kodaikanal, Yercaud and Yelagiri saw a steady tourist flow in April and May. More than 70,000 people travelled on the different tours organised by TTDC. Among the most popular tours were the weekend packages for Ooty, Kodaikanal, Yercaud and Mysore.

ASIAN TRAVELLER JULY 2009

THAILAND TRAVELLER

Bangkok's International Festival of Dance & Music is Back

TAT, VISA Join Hands

angkok's International Festival of Dance & Music is back for its 11th season and will be

hilarious "The Trocks" from New York, USA. Also, for the first time at the Thailand Cultural Centre, the stage will

International Festival of Dance & Music will be held at the Thailand Cultural Centre. It is organized by International Cultural Promotions Ltd. and sponsored by B. Grimm, Bangkok Bank Plc, Dusit Thani Hotel, King Power Group, Post Publishing Plc, Siam Cement Group, Thai

offering theatre-goers a record choice of 16 productions to enjoy during September 7 October 17, 2009. This cultural highlight of the year is offering something to interest everyone with performances ranging from a symphony concert to three powerful operas, classical ballets to contemporary dances, jazz bands to Fado, flamenco to the ever-popular,

be turned into an ice rink to feature "Cinderella on Ice" ballet, a Lunchbox Theatrical Production from the UK. Bangkok's 11th

Airways International Plc and the Tourism Authority of Thailand.

TAAI, IATA Organize Training Programme

For the full festival programme, visit www.bangkokfestivals.com.

o lure more international travellers Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has partnered with VISA this year and announced that VISA card holders will be able to enjoy special benefits and promotions At the 11th annual Amazing Thailand Grand Sale 2009 in 12 destinations around Thailand. Tourists who spend THB500 baht and above on their VISA card during the sale are eligible to win some Prima Gold in a lucky draw, with 100 prizes up for grabs. Other promotions, special prizes and exclusive benefits VISA cardholders can access include offers from airline, hotel department stores, golf courses, spas, shopping malls and even tour operator partners. Air Astana, Kuwait Airways, EL AL Israel Airlines and Jet Airways has announced that an additional 10kg baggage allowance on outbound flights.

Slumdog Millionaire Stars at Disney Land

AAI and IATA have jointly organized a BSP (Bell System Practice) workshop and training programme for TAAI accredited representatives and their senior staff and accountants who actively handle BSP and IATA related matters in New Delhi recently. 120 persons attended the day long programme held at the Metropolitan hotel. Bineetha Mohanan, Manager, Customer Services (IATA - BSP); Pran Nayyar, North India IATA Branch Head; Harkripal Singh, Chief Representative, TAAI; Anil Kalsi, Chairman, Northern Region; A. S. Gujral Hon. Secretary, Northern Region; Subhash Verma, MC Member; Harkripal Singh, TAAI Delhi and Hema Chander, Chairman, TAAI Institute lead the classes.

The three young movie stars of "Slumdog Millionaire" - Ayush Mahesh Khedekar, Azharuddin Mohammed Ismail and Rubina Ali - visited the Hong Kong Disneyland Resort recently. Hong Kong Disneyland Resort Vice President, Sales and Travel Trade Marketing, Aliana Ho and the Sales team joined Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Donald and Goofy in welcoming the young celebrities during a photo session in front of the Sleeping Beauty Castle.

JULY 2009 ASIAN TRAVELLER

AVIATION

Jet to Further Enhance Connectivity Across India ith the success of its initial operations, and driven by strong customer demand, Jet Airways Konnect, Jet Airways' new all-economy service, will further enhance its network with the launch of several new domestic services, in a planned manner. As part of the same, Jet Airways Konnect service will expand its services on existing domestic sectors, while also launching services on new domestic sectors. This is in addition to the network expansion by thirty new flights of the Jet Airways Konnect pan-India network, announced earlier. Jet Airways Konnect currently links several destinations across India, including Kochi, Pune, Hyderabad, Coimbatore, Ahmedabad, Jaipur, Bhopal, Amritsar, Jorhat, Agartala and Guwahati with five major metros - Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru, Kolkata and Chennai. According to Wolfgang Prock-Schauer, CEO, Jet Airways, "With the Jet Airways Konnect service having proved extremely popular with guests, we will continue to expand the Jet Airways Konnect network in line with demand, so as to offer guests a quality product and enhanced domestic connectivity at value-for-money fares." With the introduction of these new flights, the Jet Airways Konnect service will operate with a fleet of ten ATR 72-500 and seven Boeing 737-800 aircraft on key domestic routes across India, taking the total offerings to more than 100 flights per day.

Kuwait Airways to be Privatised by Year End uwait Airways Corporation (KAC) will be fully privatised by year end, Kuwait's Minister of Communications, Dr Mohammed Al-Busairi, has said. According to Act No 6, 2008 that was adopted by the country's government last July, an investor may acquire a 35 per cent stake in new company's capital, the government 20 per cent and the staff of the company 5 per cent, while the remaining 40 per cent of shares will be available for the public to buy. Kuwait Investment Authority will run the KAC privatisation process, while Ernst and Young is tasked with the management of data and information collection, because of its extensive operations.

Kingfisher Airlines Joins Oneworld's Global Explorer ingfisher Airlines will be offering a round-the-world fare for the first time in India after the airline participating from 01-Jun-2009 in Global Explorer, which offers flights on all members of the oneworldÂŽ alliance and some selected other airlines. Global Explorer already includes a number of airlines with no other oneworld links - Aer Lingus, Air Pacific, Alaska Airlines and its Horizon Airlines sister, and Gulf Air. The fare also covers all routes offered by oneworld's existing member airlines - American Airlines, British Airways, Cathay Pacific, Finnair, Iberia, Japan Airlines, LAN, MalĂŠv Hungarian Airlines, Qantas and Royal Jordanian and some 20 affiliated carriers, including LAN Argentina, LAN Ecuador, LAN Peru, China's Dragonair and South Africa's Comair. Mexicana and its affiliate MexicanaClick also participate, ahead of joining oneworld later in 2009. Flights carrying the Qantas code but operated by Air Tahiti Nui, Jetstar, South African Airways and Vietnam Airlines are also included.These airlines currently serve five points in India; Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai, Bangalore and Hyderabad which will be complimented by 62 gateways across the country by Kingfisher.

Signs Deal With Airbus

Paramount Goes International hennai based Paramount Airways, One of India's leading domestic premium airlines, has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to buy ten A321 aircraft with an option for additional ten. The agreement was concluded at the 48th Le Bourget air show outside Paris. The deal will be funded by the European central bank. M. Thiagarajan, Paramount Airways Managing Director, said, "This marks an important and strategic landmark in our expansion plans and in particular our goal to become a leading international carrier. The A321 will help us realize these ambitious and attainable goals and we are delighted with the choice."

M. Thiagarajan MD, Paramount Airways

With the new aircraft, Paramount Airways will launch international services operating from key hubs. Paramount has created a niche for itself in the domestic market by flying smaller aircraft as compared to other airlines operating with 150-180 seats. The airline will follow the same strategy of right sizing in its international operations. The airline is assessing opportunities to fly into the Far East and Middle East Countries. "We are delighted to welcome Paramount Airways as a new customer. Their decision to go with A321 is a testament to the aircrafts leading position in this sector and also to the partnership between our two companies which we hope will develop long into the future", said John Leahy, Airbus Chief Operating Officer, Customers. ASIAN TRAVELLER JULY 2009

MARKETING

Travel Air Representations to Market Amanvana Spa ravel Air Representations, an international organization of inde pendent Marketing and Communications agencies serving travel, hospitality and destination clients has signed the marketing and PR contract for the luxury spa & resort - Amanvana. Amanvana is nestled upon the pristine surrounds of picturesque river Kaveri, Kushalnagar in Coorg District, just 3.5 hrs drive from Bangalore city. The Spa provides a complete range of therapeutic wellness, reflexology, scrubs, vinotherapy, chocolate delight, full body massages, anti-stress massage, effleurage and ritzy rituals. Amanvana offers exceptional conference facilities. Whether it's a high-powered meeting for 20 executives or a conference for 55 delegates, - one will find tasteful meeting, conference and dining facilities that offer luxurious space and flexibility for individual requirements in the function room. Environment Friendly, Amanvana makes uses of nature's energy to heat water (solar energy), has a state -of art -waste water treatment plant thereby ensuring that the river is as clean and pollution free as it always was. Use of separate garbage rooms ensure that no mixing of pollutants. Plastics are not welcome and ensures that nature also gets the spa treatment.

JULY 2009 ASIAN TRAVELLER

Starwood Targets Indian Market tarwood Hotels & Resorts Pvt Ltd has launched a new marketing initiative directed at both, the outbound and domestic Indian traveller. The company has launched a series of promotional efforts for the Indian market. It has recently launched the India Sales Mission across four cities in the country, including Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai and Delhi, to tap the corporate market and increase awareness about its existing and upcoming properties in India.

ITL Inks Deal With Travelport ravelport GDS has signed a regional agreement in the Middle East with ITL Tours and Travel for Galileo - its air, car and hotel booking platform. The multi-year deal will give ITL access to the leading booking platform and its extensive content, as well as unrivalled technology training and support services. With many years of regional experience under its belt, Travelport has the expertise to help ITL grow the agency's burgeoning business and compete more effectively.

Tanzania Tourism to Open Office in Mumbai anzanian Tourist Board (TTB) is in the process of setting up repre sentative offices in India. The initiative will be aided by private tour operators and travel agents from India and the first representative office is likely to be established in Mumbai by July 2009 end. Subsequently TTB also plans to establish its representative offices in key markets like New Delhi, Chennai, Bengaluru and East Indian states to create better visibility for the destination.

KERALA TRAVELLER

Dr. V. Venu IAS Secretary, Kerala Tourism

ast month Kerala Tourism embarked on a journey back in time. The Muziris Heritage Project, aimed at conserving Muziris, an active port of first century BC, is all set to preserve the socio-cultural and religious imprints of a period in Kerala's history for posterity. This historically and culturally-rich site is now

spread across Kodungalloor and Paravur in the districts of Thrissur and Ernakulam respectively. The Muziris Heritage Project will eventually be developed as a tourism heritage circuit, in association with the Govt. of India. Kerala Tourism's greater emphasis on the domestic market has started paying off. The domes-

tic arrival figures for the first quarter show a 3.21% growth as compared to last year's. As you may be aware, it was the global slowdown that spurred Kerala Tourism to lay more stress on the domestic market. Initiatives like Dream Season and Jet2Kerala as well as road shows, the last two of which will be held in Delhi and

Monsoon Carnival in Wayanad ayanad Tourism Organisation (WTO), a body of stake holders in the tourism sector of Wayanad, Kerala about to launch 'Splash- 2009', a unique monsoon festival for promoting rain tourism in a big way in Wayanad district. The event is scheduled from 3rd to 11th July 2009, featuring wide range of traditional and folk art forms. A large number of delegates from the tourism industry from both private and public sector including suppliers, writers, media, other industry professionals and other high profile personalities as well as guests from 30 prime resorts and hotels of Wayanad are expected to attend the 9-day carnival. The carnival aims at bringing the attention of the global tourism in to the monsoon rains of Wayanad. The traditional Kerala art forms like Kalaripayattu, Kadhakali, Mohiniyattom, Kuchupudi, Kolkali and unique ethnic art-forms will be showcased at the indoor venue while many popular items from village festivals will be exhibited at the outdoor venue for retaining the rustic-touch. The important items are River Rafting, Crab Catching Tour, Treasure Hunt, Splash Volley Ball, Uriyadi (hitting at the clay pot), Paddy Transplantation, Mud Football, Kambukayattam (climbing the slippery pole) etc. The venues would be in far-flung villages. The WTO is also bringing out a souvenir to perpetuate the memories of first ever carnival of Wayanad which is going to be an international annual tourism event.

Kolkata, have significantly contributed to the increase. On the global front, Kerala grabbed more attention when the June 2009 edition of Vogue UK, one of the world's most renowned fashion and lifestyle magazines,captured the scenic beauty of the land in its 'Indian summer' shoot. The photo feature will definitely strengthen the exclusive brand image Kerala enjoys across the world - especially in the UK, Kerala's key source market. In the coming days, the UK will focus even more on God's Own Country. The Association of Independent Tour Operators (AITO) that represents some of Britain's best specialist tour operators is all set to hold its annual conference in Cochin in November 2009. Kerala was zeroed in as the venue for its exotic natural beauty and pro-active Government support. The Conference will bring significant gains for Kerala, as it will bring together business owners, key decision makers and reputed operators from the UK.

OBITUARY

Commander K. Kuriakose We at Asian Traveller deeply mourn the sad demise of Commander K. Kuriakose (Chairman, Mercy Luxury Business Hotel; Founder Member, The Mercy Group of Hotels and Former KHRA President).

ASIAN TRAVELLER JULY 2009

KERALA TRAVELLER

The End of Growth for Emerging Countries

suffer from ecological devastation will be tourism. Tourists want to relax and get rid of all the stress they face back home. They want to recover in a healthy, clean and green environment. In the first FLORIAN MAYER instance tourists are opportunistic. take any social or environmental responsibility. Profit is what counts. If they do not comfortable anymore, they will go somewhere else for ince March this year we have So working conditions are often holidays. quite bad and nature has to suffer been experiencing an Let us draw a picture of one a lot. At the moment it seems to unbelievable rally on the stock markets which is unique and work perfectly: Profits double after such country twenty years from now: The population counts close just a few years, so do the stocks. never seen before in most Asian You can make it from rags to riches to a billion people. The cities countries. While most stock covered by black clouds of smog. within a few years, many did. markets in Europe and in the USA Tourists have not been coming for The question is: For how long gained about 40 per cent, the so years. Large portions of the people can emerging countries go on like called emerging markets gained who live in the cities suffer of some that? And what will be the consebetween 45(Brazil) and 130(Rusquences of this behavior? Well, for kind of cancer, a huge per cent of sia) per cent. What is the reason the population sick and ill. The how long is hard to say. The land for this difference? The answer is anticipated average life has fallen has to cope with all kinds of pretty simple: Growth. Economies to 50 years. A liter of clean water pollution: noise pollution, air in Europe and North America are costs 3USD. Government propollution, land or soil pollution, still in trouble. Germany for examgrammes to lower the price for water pollution, thermal pollution ple expects a decline of their GDP water have been failed because of and radioactive pollution. by approximately six per cent this the huge need. Only 15 per cent of Some year. Emerging countries the entire population can afford to consehowever are already on buy clean water. Wells, rivers and quences their way back to growth water streams are either dried up seem to be figures of good old quite clear. If you or poisoned. The monsoon is times. India for live in a noisy history. Because of long periods of example expects drought huge areas have been city for your turned into deserts. Entire swaths whole life, of land are used as dumps for any your ears kind of domestic, industrial and and your radioactive waste. The soil is ability to poisoned. Because of the lack of concentrate clean water, healthy soil and the will suffer. If you inhale polluted air your whole life increasing build-on as an outcome of the growing population only very long, your lungs and an economic growth breathing organs will suffer few places can still be used for of about seven per cent in 2009. and the risk to contract cancer will agriculture purposes. One tomato How is this possible? costs 4USD. rise. If you pollute soil, the area to It is not only cheap labor, the Common man can therefore no set-up of infrastructure, IT services, grow crops will shrink in times of a longer afford to buy enough food. rapidly growing population. The tourism or the growing domestic most threatened type of pollution is More than 70 per cent of the demand, it is more. It is what we population is starving. Government likely to be water pollution. Why? call "unlimited growth". Unlimited We all need clean water every day. programmes to provide nutrition growth means: Everything is have been failed because of the One of the first sectors which will possible. Employers mostly do not

Shashi Tharoor Felicitated

lack of food. Due to the inability to work because of diseases and the high expenses for food and health care, domestic demand for any kind of other products has collapsed totally. Thousands of shops gets shut down every day. Unemployment is at an all time high. The best educated people, who have the abilities and the opportunity to emigrate, leave the country. And then? The Government in its desperation daily prints tons of banknotes and circulates money to everybody. Due to the lack of offers of food the currency faces a hyperinflation. Prices double every day. A tomato soon costs millions. The financial deficit grows rapidly. The Country begs for support. But other countries have same problems. There is no more food and no more water to share. And then? Due to the circumstances hundred thousands of people die every day. Within ten more years the population shrinks to half of what it was ten years ago. Civil wars break out all over the country. People fight and die for acreage and water sources. Step by step the country bogs in chaos and falls apart. India is only one of many countries which could face similar problems. And true, that is in deed a pretty pessimistic, black picture, maybe it is the worst case scenario. But it is not that unrealistic when emerging countries go on like they are doing at the moment. There is always a price which you have to pay for extraordinary achievements. Unlimited growth is no exception there. Changes will have to happen if those countries do not want to waste their land and their coming generations.

Association of Tourism Trade Organisations (India)

ATTOI Elects New Office Bearers

Shashi Tharoor, Minister of State for External Affairs was felicitated at Thiruvananthapuram by the prominent industry organisations.

Sreekumara Menon President

Anish Kumar P K Secretary

John Thomas Treasurer

ASIAN TRAVELLER JULY 2009

KERALA TRAVELLER

Investor Meets to Have a Permanent Web Based Platform n exclusive web based platform to help guide investors who are keen on investing in Kerala's growing tourism sector has been created by Tourism Resorts Kerala Limited (TRKL). TRKL is a Government of Kerala undertaking which works towards attracting tourism investments to the State. The site, www.trkl.in, will feature details of potential tourism destinations as well as project reports of feasible investment proposals. The website will function as a permanent public forum for the innovative business model envisaged by TRKL that will promote joint ventures between NRK investors and T K Manzoor, entrepreneurs MD, TRKL Ltd. in Kerala. Through this site, Malayali investors abroad will get opportunity to interact with entrepreneurs in Kerala and build up tie-ups. Currently, project reports of various tourism schemes from all the 14 districts are available on the website's project bank. You can check out these project proposals on entering this site and registering here. To further evaluate the prospects of these projects, the basic statistics of Kerala Tourism is included in this site. Besides, you also have the opportunity of directly interacting

with the people who have submitted the project you are interested in. Since the entrepreneur and investor will be interacting only after understanding all the details of the project, repeated meetings and discussions can be avoided. Moreover, this novel method enables a project to be implemented more speedily. The website also offers a platform for those interested in submitting new project proposals. Through this, the website becomes a permanent arena for opening up investment opportunities and attracting new investments. It is to be noted that the site will include proposals only of those projects which have been sanctioned after careful scrutiny by a team of experts at the TRKL. This website will be useful not just for NRK investors - it will provide comprehensive and authentic information of Kerala's tourism sector, the investment opportunities available here and the subsidies and incentives given by the Government for various tourism sectors. In a section devoted to 'market opportunity', investment prospects in each of these sectors are given in detail, while 'hotspot' has enlisted the major tourism destinations in every district. The 'schemes and incentives' section details out the different sectors that are currently investing in tourism. Ten main areas including Ayurveda centre, houseboat, amusement park,

Tamarind KTDC Easy Hotel in Nilambur

homestay etc. are represented here. All details right from submitting the application of a project in each of these sectors to the processing formalities of the project as well as government incentives given, is recorded here. In addition to all this, the tourism statistics of Kerala from 2003 is available at this site. Month-wise details of tourist arrivals to the State from various countries, statistics of tourists arriving at each district, details of tourists visiting each destination, separate statistics of national and international tourist arrivals etc., given here will help provide a better picture of the investment possibilities at each destination in all the districts. A number of NRK professionals interested in investing in Kerala do not have sufficient know-how of the investment sector or the facility to oversee business ventures back home. T K Manzoor, Managing Director, Tourist Resorts (Kerala) Ltd said that there will be a great platform between the great entrepreneurial skills of the Keralite and those has sufficient funds to invest. By bringing together these two sets of people and forming a jointventure partnership, TRKL aims at establishing a new business model. It is expected that this new model will help attract huge investments in the

Kerala Dream Holidays Launched erala, normally considered an expensive destination amongst Indians, is all set to see more domestic travellers this year. Jet2Kerala, the latest marketing initiative of Kerala Tourism along with Jet Airways, offers never-before holiday airfare packages on all domestic flights of Jet Airways to Thiruvananthapuram, Kochi and Kozhikode, making Kerala one of the most cost effective destinations in the country. Attractive all-inclusive packages on Jet2Kerala from Mumbai start at Rs. 18,000 per person, while packages from Bangalore per couple start at Rs. 25,000 for a 2night-3day stay. Travellers who wish to avail of these Jet2Kerala packages may log on to www.keralatourism.org/jetairways

Kodiyeri Balakrishnan, Minister for Tourism formally inaugurates Tamarind KTDC Easy Hotel at Nilambur in the presence of P.V.Abdul Wahab M.P, Aryadan Muhammed MLA, Cherian Philip, Chairman KTDC and K.G.Mohanlal.I.F.S Managing Director of KTDC.

JULY 2009 ASIAN TRAVELLER

tourism sector of Kerala. Even though Kerala Tourism has grown immensely in the last two decades, there have not been equivalent investments in this field. Because of this very reason, it is foreseen that the present scenario in the State is ideally suited for tourism investments. Today, Kerala Tourism is a fast growing sector with a revenue exceeding Rs. 13, 130 crore . And in spite of the global recession, Kerala Tourism has recorded a growth of 14.84 per cent during the last year. 'Ente Naadu', an investor meet for NRKs was hosted in Kochi, a few months back Several people who participated in this meet had expressed interest in investing in Kerala. This website has been developed after taking into consideration the recommendations aired by investors who had participated at the meet. Other than this new business model, TRKL takes up and implements private-public ventures and Government-owned projects also.

VARIETY

SITA has appointed Damian Hickey as Regional Vice President, South Asia and India.

Miguel Neito Sandoval has been appointed as Tourism Counsellor, Director of the Tourism Department, Embassy of Spain in India.

Sarabjeet Singh has been appointed Director Operations for Taj GVK Hotels & Resorts and GM for Taj Krishna in Hyderabad, India.

1. What is the meaning of Mongolia's capital city's name Ulan Bator? 2. What is vishing? 3. What is a Hallmark holiday? 4. What was Sony's first product? 5. Who invented the concept of 'power lunch'?

Ulan Bator

6. Why a palm tree is called so? 7. What is Sonja de Lennart's famous invention? 8. How is that the earth's second highest mountain Godwin Austen is known as K2? 9. Who coined the term Silicon Valley?

Swarendra Sahay is the new Director of Food & Beverage at Hyatt Regency, Mumbai, India.

Sonja de Lennart

India Tourism Promotional Plans for the Forthcoming Months Road Shows with PATA India Chapter in Scandinavia (Helsinki, Stockholm and Oslo) in August 25 to 28 August. Adventure Tourism Road Shows in collaboration with Adventure Tour Operators Association of India in Australia and New Zealand (Adelaide, Melbourne, Brisbane, Sydney, Auckland and Wellington) in September 2009. Road Shows in Russia (Moscow and St. Petersburg), including Indian Food Festivals, Cultural Programmes and Business Sessions in September 2009. "India Calling" a custom Live Performance Event at Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles showcasing India's rich diversity in September 2009

10. Where is Sugar Museum, a 100year old museum for sugar, its origin, and related products?

Godwin Austen

Compiled by DEEKAY

Send in your answers to info@mediastepsindia.com with TYKC22 in the the subject line. Answers should reach us before the 30th of this month. Answers of TYKC - 21 1. The New Zealander explorer Major Frank Holmes (1874-1947) who helped Bahrain discover its oil first, 2. Pisa, Italy ( the scientist Galileo was a native of Pisa), 3. Switzerland ( from its Latin name , Confoederatio Helvetica), 4. 354, 5. Pan Island Expressway, 6. Peach is from 'persicum' for Persia. The fruit was called 'persicum malum' (Persian Apple), 7. From the Portuguese word ' pau brasil' ( pau - wood & brasil-ember-coloured / ember-red tree), 8. It is Yahoo with 50:50 partnership with Seven Network in Australia, 9. A blog with video content instead of just text, 10. It is just Polish for 'flight'

TYKC 21 - Winner

Road Shows with IATO in West Asia (Saudi Arabia, Kuwait and Qatar) in October 2009. S. V. MAHA LAXMI Ullhas Nagar, Pune, Maharashtra, India

One all-correct entry will get Free Stay at Le-Meridien, Kochi

JULY 2009 TTF OTM, Hyderabad

July 3-5

TTF OTM, Kolkata

July 11-13

IITM, Bangalore

July 18-20

Teej, India and Nepal

July 24-25

IITM, Chennai

July 24-26

TTF OTM, Ahmedabad

July 31-August 2

[ 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

ASIAN TRAVELLER JULY 2009

THE LEELA ENTERS RAJASTHAN The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts has announced its entry into the state of Rajasthan, with the soft opening of The Leela Palace Kempinski Udaipur.

JULY 2009 ASIAN TRAVELLER