Asian Traveller March 2009 by Asian Traveller

CONTENTS Vol. 2 | No. 6 | MARCH 2009 A

ITB Berlin Stronger Than Ever

The 2009 edition of ITB Berlin which concluded in Berlin on March 15 saw 110,000 trade visitors, of which 42 per cent were from abroad.

Asian Travel Demand Slows, Bright Spots Remain

Asia's final outbound travel figures for 2008 and prospects for 2009 have been revealed in the ITB World Travel Trends Report 2009 which was presented at ITB Future Day on March 11, 2009.

Destination

18 12

Woman of the Month

Page

10 Questions

WTTC UNVEILS 2009 ECONOMIC IMPACT REPORT

SHANGHAI READY FOR IT&CM 2009

PARAMOUNT AIRWAYS PLANS FORAY INTO EAST

AVIAREPS TO PROMOTE DISNEY DESTINATIONS IN INDIA

TAAI MANAGING COMMITTEE VISITS DUBAI

KERALA TOURISM STEPS INTO NEW MARKETS IN SWEDEN AND RUSSIA

TAMIL NADU TO PROMOTE RURAL TOURISM IN A BIG WAY

AS I TRAVEL V Duraikkannan Page

MARCH 2009 ASIAN TRAVELLER

Cover Photo Courtesy : Tourism Australia

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 501640549 Mariam Titus 00965 6638670 V. K. Gangal 09871180498 Mahesh Nair 022 32499989 Rohil Kumar A. B. 09844001625 Nisha J. 09841008588 K.S. Johnson 09441236010 P. Mohandas 09719055472 P. Deenadayalu 09843129535 M. P. Sreekumar 09447118694 Anurag Sinha 09830015667 M. Sreekumar 09745444166 Jaya Rajeshwari 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 © 2009 *Responsible for selection of news under the PRB Act

EDITORâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S NOTE

he crisis is not over yet. And no one can say for sure how long this meltdown will continue. According to The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) the current situation will continue for another two years. "Given the significant deterioration in Travel & Tourism activity through the second half of 2008 and the bleak macroeconomic forecast for 2009, Travel & Tourism Economy GDP will contract by 3.6 per cent in 2009. And it is expected to remain weak in 2010 with only marginal growth, of less than 0.3 per cent, currently predicted - on what will already be a weak 2009," says the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) 2009 Economic Impact Research. But there are signs of hope. Responses at the recently concluded ITB Berlin were encouraging. Tourism has time and again proved its resilience and will be one of the first sectors to bounce back once the economic situation attains stability. And every one accepts the fact that tourism has an important role to play in the post-crisis world. As Taleb Rifai, Secretary-General ad interim, UNWTO has underscored during his inaugural address at ITB Berlin "tourism means trade, jobs, development, cultural sustainability, peace and the fulfilment of human aspirations. If ever there was a time to get this message out loud and clear, it is now, as we meet at a time of overriding global uncertainty, but also of immense possibilities". But we should be prepared when that day dawns. The recently held sitting of the UNWTO Resilience Committee (TRC) has come out with a set of guidelines to survive the crisis and improve the situation. The main points mooted at the meet are: innovation in areas such as product development, marketing, distribution, human resources training, and all regional and national policies. Improved and more substantial market information using tools available to improve the system of data collection, market intelligence and analysis is also suggested. So it is time for innovative ideas. Keeping in mind the long term benefits of tourism, such as its capacity for job creation, contribution to local economies and poverty reduction and considering the fact that tourism can also play a key role within the framework of the green economy and climate challenges, reviving the industry should be given priority.

G. Biju Krishnan Editor & Publisher

Below Edit

Verbatim

Travel and Tourism Recruitment Practices Must Evolve ecruitment best practice and employment techniques should be further developed if the Middle East travel and tourism industry is to weather a predicted skills shortage, according to Reed Travel Exhibitions, organizer of Arabian Travel Market 2009. With more than 1.5 million travel and tourism professionals required in the region by 2020, and with more than 300 new committed hotel projects planned between 2008 and 2011 across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), the need for companies and organizations to focus their recruitment and retention efforts is paramount. And with increased pressure for staff coming from the emerging markets of Asia and the sub-continent, employers in the Middle East are facing their biggest challenge yet. "It is no surprise that the huge growth in the Middle East's tourism, hospitality, and travel sectors has resulted in a shortage of skilled professionals. However, it is how we address this concern that will prove the deciding factor in the years to come," said Simon Press, exhibition director, Arabian Travel Market,

which takes place from May 5-8, 2009 at the Dubai International Convention Centre in the United Arab Emirates. "We all have to take proactive steps to both enhance the region's offering and increase the understanding of employees about the opportunities that are out there. Recruitment is a sizeable investment, both in terms of time and capital, and given the current economic climate, it is more important than ever that we get it right." To raise awareness of the issues, organizers of Arabian Travel Market - the Middle East's premier travel and tourism exhibition - have added Careers Day to the 2009 event schedule as part of the show's enhanced learning and knowledge delivery vision. As well as face-to-face meetings with potential employers, visitors can attend specific career workshops and seminars hosted by established representatives within this industry, covering CV construction, covering letters, and interview techniques.

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History shows that the biggest challenges provide the biggest opportunities. We know that tourism means trade, jobs, devel-

opment, cultural sustainability, peace and the fulfillment of human aspirations. If ever there was a time to get this message out loud and clear, it is now.

â&#x20AC;?

Taleb Rifai, Secretary General, United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO)

ASIAN TRAVELLER MARCH 2009

WORLDVIEW

he 2009 edition of ITB Berlin which concluded in Berlin on March 15 saw 110,000 trade visitors, of which 42 per cent were from abroad. The industry experts think that in times of crisis more market players are making increasing use of the world's leading platform for the industry. From 11 to 15 March 11,098 companies from 187 countries (compared with 11,147 companies from 186 countries in 2008) exhibited their products and services and discussed their future market strategies. Of the 110,857 trade visitors who attended, 42 per cent came from abroad, an increase of four per cent over last year.

T ITB Berlin 2009

Stronger Than Ever

"More market players visited the leading platform of the international travel industry than ever before. In times of rapid structural changes and highly competitive markets they focused on gaining a comprehensive market overview and on new business approaches. Thus, unlike many other industries, the travel sector is actively responding to the challenges. Trade visitor attendance remained high, proof of ITB Berlin's resilience even in economically difficult times", said Dr. Christian Göke, Chief Operating Officer of Messe Berlin. Despite the global financial crisis there was a positive mood among exhibitors, who were satisfied with business at ITB Berlin. According to a representative survey carried out by Fachhochschule Eberswalde during the fair, six out of ten exhibitors said the recession had had no impact on their business.

However, they said that travel behaviour would change. 52 per cent of exhibitors expected tourists to take even shorter trips, 60 per cent believed local tourism would boom, and 68 per cent expected demand for last-minute travel to increase. More than half of the exhibitors claimed they were currently adapting their products to suit changing conditions, for which ITB Berlin is the ideal venue. According to a survey by an independent market research institute, more than 87 per cent (85) of exhibitors obtained a positive impression of the fair. As in 2008, even before this year's fair had ended, 91 per cent said they would be back next year at ITB Berlin. Trade visitors' reactions to the range of products and services at ITB Berlin were even more positive than last year. 79 per cent (77) rated it either "excellent" or "good". 94 per cent (93) were satisfied with their visit to the fair and 95 per cent (94) would recommend it to friends or colleagues. At 92 per cent, the proportion of trade visitors planning to return to ITB Berlin next year increased (2008: 88).

WEF Travel & Tourism Competitiveness Report 2009

Singapore Ranked Top in Asia ingapore has been ranked as the highestranked country in Asia, and 10th out of 133 countries measured for the attractiveness of their environments in developing the travel and tourism industry, according to the World Economic Forum’s latest Travel & Tourism Competitiveness Report 2009. “We are pleased to have improved our ranking in the World Economic Forum’s Travel & Tourism Competitiveness Report 2009 to be among the top 10 countries globally and the only Asian country in the top 10 out of 133 countries. This is an indication of Singapore’s strengths in its tourism management and infrastructure. It will in turn strengthen our efforts to ride out the current downturn and position ourselves for future growth”, said John

MARCH 2009 ASIAN TRAVELLER

Gregory Conceicao, Director, Strategic Planning, Singapore Tourism Board (STB). Improving six places from its overall ranking last year in the 2008 report, Singapore was placed first for its policy environment, indicating that its rules and regulations are highly conducive to the development of its travel and tourism industry. Such policies include those that facilitate foreign ownership and Foreign Direct Investment, well-protected property rights, few visa restrictions and transparency of policy making. Singapore also came in first in human resources, scoring high in the quality of its education system, extent of staff training, ease of hiring foreign labour, as well as hiring and firing practices. According to the report, an excellent educational system, top-notch training

facilities, healthy workforce, and flexible labour market are key factors contributing to Singapore’s good performance in this area. Singapore also benefited from its excellent transport infrastructure, with ground transport infrastructure, air transport infrastructure and air networks being ranked highly. Its InfoCommunications Technology (ICT) infrastructure has also seen a measurable improvement since last year.

ITB BERLIN

ITB World Travel Trends Report 2009

Asian Travel Demand Slows, Bright Spots Remain sia's final outbound travel figures for 2008 and prospects for 2009 have been revealed in the ITB World Travel Trends Report 2009 which was presented at ITB Future Day on March 11, 2009. Internet bookings will surge, demand for online virtual, meetings will gather pace, domestic travel will stay stable or grow, as will demand for low cost flights. Destinations adjacent to big travel markets will do not so bad, long haul travel will fall sharply and the most pain will be felt in the business travel and

MICE sectors. These were the predictions for 2009 unveiled by IPK International's CEO Rolf Freitag, in the Report. As the final numbers on Asia's 2008 tourism performance are tallied, preliminary results from different sources suggest that the winners in terms of inbound tourism included Indonesia with 17 per cent and Macau with ten per cent. Southeast and South Asia tied for best performing sub-region, with average increases of four per cent each. Yet the general trend for Asia,

Statement about the ownership and other particulars about ASIAN TRAVELLER Forum IV (See Rule 6) 1.Place of Publication : Thiruvananthapuram 2.Periodicity of Publication : Monthly 3.Printers Name : G Biju Krishnan Whether Citizen of India : Yes (If foreigner, state the country of origin) Address : TC- 27/1915, MBRRA-70, Mathrubhoomi Road, Thiruvananthapuram-695001, Kerala State, South India. 4.Publisher’s Name : G. Biju Krishnan Whether Citizen of India : Yes Address : TC- 27/1915, MBRRA-70, Mathrubhoomi Road, Thiruvananthapuram-695001, Kerala State, South India. 5.Editor’s name : G. Biju Krishnan Whether Citizen of India : Yes Address : TC- 27/1915, MBRRA-70, Mathrubhoomi Road, Thiruvananthapuram-695001, Kerala State, South India. 6.Owner’s Name and Address : G. Biju Krishnan TC- 27/1915, MBRRA-70, Mathrubhoomi Road, Thiruvananthapuram-695001, Kerala State, South India. 7. Name and address of individuals who own the newspaper and shareholders holding more than one percent of the total capital as given below : G. Biju Krishnan TC- 27/1915, MBRRA-70, Mathrubhoomi Road, Thiruvananthapuram-695001, Kerala State, South India. I, G Biju Krishnan, hereby declare that the particular given above are true to the best of my knowledge and belief Sd/Thiruvananthapuram G. Biju Krishnan

Date: 01.03.09

Printer and Publisher

usually a star performer in terms of both inbound and outbound international travel, was very mixed in 2008 due to rising fuel costs and surcharges. Inbound international arrivals growth of six per cent from January to June 2008 turned to a two-three per cent deficit in the second half, according to the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO), as economic clouds gathered and the oil price hikes hit home. Economic weakness in Asia has implications for the rest of the world. Japan is still the only Asian outbound travel market to rank among the world's top ten source countries for travel and tourism. The Japanese made an estimated 16.5 million trips in 2008 - a 1.5 million drop on 2007. While China's official outbound trip count is much higher, at around 40 million, some 70 per cent of these trips are to Hong Kong and Macau, Special Administrative Regions of China. Non-Hong Kong and Macau outbound trips were 13-14 million, according to IPK. Official Chinese data says this was still 14 per cent up on 2007. Residual travel demand from China in 2009, despite rapidly slowing economic growth, will mean China remains a much sought-after source market this year. Based on 500,000 travel interviews in 58 countries around the world, IPK delivered a wideranging forecast. In the predictions, IPK suggested that 2009 will see travel declines in most markets, with 2010 neutral and small growth likely in 2011 and 2012. European and North American markets will be more adversely affected compared to other regions of the world. IPK predicts that China, India and all of Latin America will record GDP and travel demand growth, even in 2009. However, those growth figures will be smaller than the precedents set over the

Rolf Freitag CEO, IPK International

last 10 years. While Turkey, USA, Austria and UK all received strong growth in arrivals numbers from European travellers in 2008, IPK predicts they are unlikely to do so again this year. In households that earn more than 20,000 Euro a year, travel will remain a high priority, according to IPK. However, households earning less than 20,000 Euro are much more likely to adjust travel plans towards cheaper and / or domestic trips. Freitag pointed out that travellers are increasingly using the internet, not just to find information, but to book and pay for holidays. The internet as a travel tool will continue to grow in 2009. To help them face the economic downturn, which is likely to go on longer than previously predicted, Freitag said companies should reduce costs, go on a price cutting offensive, enter into partnerships with the public sector, communicate new attractions more aggressively and intensify e-marketing and e sales initiatives. Companies with good asset security can take advantage of low interest rates to borrow money and invest for the upturn which will eventually come, he said. ASIAN TRAVELLER MARCH 2009

PERSONALITY

ABHILASHA JAIN COUNTRY MANAGER - INDIA, TOURISM AUSTRALIA

MARCH 2009 ASIAN TRAVELLER

How did you become interested in hospitality business? When I was in college I got myself a world map big enough to be a wall paper and pasted it on a wall opposite my bed. So when I woke up every morning I would look at it and remind myself that I would like to at least have seen half of the world by the time I was 30. That is what interested me in hospitality industry - it offered me opportunities all over the world, whether in travel business or with hotels or airlines. Though when I started to get to know more about the industry I figured, I wasn't made for operations side of itlate night shifts, no off on public holidays etc. Chose to do my MBA in Marketing and then joined the hotel industry. My first job was with The Leela Kempinski, Mumbai as Assistant Manager Sales. From there on moved to marketing, worked with American Express Corporate Card division for a while and the rest as they say is history. What is your current role at your company? Currently I am responsible for increasing yield and driving visitor arrival growth to Australia through consumer and trade marketing in the region. I look after implementation of Annual Operating Plan; manage all marketing activities and stakeholder partnerships with airlines, State / Territory Tourism Commissions, travel agents and Australian Government bodies such as High Commission, Consulate, Australian Trade Commission and Department of Immigration. What plans - immediate and long term - does Tourism Australia have? Our focus in 2009, from the consumer perspective, will be on generating awareness about Australia as a destination, engaging consumers through innovative

campaigns and working towards having more Indians travel to Australia. For the trade development, we are looking at strengthening our Aussie Specialist Programme that is aimed at providing good destination and product training to travel agents. Our long term strategy for the India market has been to constantly innovate and provide visitors with the most unique and novel experiences. As a travel industry professional what is your ambition? Where would you like to see yourself ten years from now? My ambition is to see tourism to India in all its glory. I believe India has so much to offer as a tourism destination but seriously lacks the marketing know how to promote itself internationally. There are so many opportunities that are yet unexplored. The sector can be developed not only to earn foreign exchange but to take tourism to the grass root levels in India to benefit the common man. Tourism should not be a purview of the metros only, it should encourage visitors to travel to interior parts of our country and get a glimpse of the life of an ordinary person. We can look at broadening the horizon to endorse lesser known though equally enticing places rather than the typical destinations like Rajasthan or five star hotels. Five years from now I see myself involved in the other side of business i.e. to get more international tourist to travel to India. Who or what has been the greatest influence in your professional life? The greatest influence in my life has been my father. At one time I believed I lived his ambition rather then mine. Today I am thankful for that. Professionally, I am motivated by my current superior Maggie White. She truly is someone who has such a tremendous zest for life; she makes you want to live up to it as well. Her constant reminder to have a balance between work and personal life balance, to live a healthy lifestyle and her passion for her work motivates me at all times. when I would have given up on the industry. No wonder I have been with Tourism Australia for 5 years now. As woman, what were the chal-

lenges you had to face in your professional life? I was lucky to have started my career in Mumbai. Mumbai is a great leveller; one does not really face much discrimination here. Also, I think the hospitality industry is lot more open to women than some of the other industries, which is a bonus as well. Having said that, sometimes one does face challenges - one upmanship is common in organisations dominated by men. Sometimes there could also be pressure to be one of the boys and yet draw the line to maintain a dignified stance. For the young girls who enter the sector my advice would be - Be true to yourself and give your 100 per cent to your job once you are in office. Don't get de-motivated if you face any sexist attitude, if you are good at your job almost everything else will follow and people will make place for you. And my motto is - Any woman who aspires to be as good as a man, lacks ambition. Go gals! What is the secret of your success? I love what I do - that is my secret. The day I wake up in the morning and tell my self my work sucks, I will go find something else to do that brings me joy and you bet I will be successful at that as well. What is your proudest moment in your job? I try to have at least one a week - so too many to account for! Tell us about your family. Am married to an amazing man who lets me call my soul my own, and is perfectly OK with who I am, as I am. Having worked for eight years in the PR industry in India, currently he is pursuing his MA in International Media and Communications from London School of Economics and plans to work in Asia post that. My parents live in Bhopal where my father currently runs his financial consultancy firm. What are your hobbies? I am an avid reader and average about at least one book every fortnight. I love theatre and the movies (in that order). I'm immensely fond of music and cannot live with out my I-Pod. I make a great bathroom singer and an amateur dancer. Every year I try my hand at least one new thing.

Q & A

DINESH NACHAPPA K. GENERAL MANAGER CLASSIC AVENUE THIRUVANANTHAPURAM KERALA, INDIA

BEST WESTERN GROUP OF HOTELS

MARCH 2009 ASIAN TRAVELLER

Tell us about you Hotel & its USPs? Our Hotel is an oasis of luxury and grandeur for our valued guests where they can lure in the warm and cozy ambience. We are committed to give the best service available in the industry by providing quality workforce, amenities, ambience and dining maximum hygiene thereby reach the goal of ultimate customer satisfaction. How do you Position your Hotel in the Market? Classic Avenue offers guest with a truly classic and exciting experience. We cater to different clientele with rooms ranging from executive to suites. I rate my hotel as the front runner among the business class category in the city. We always guarantee value for money. Being an international brand we never compromise on the quality of service and always ensure comfort and security with the most modern facilities. We always offer personalized service to our clients. How important is a hotel in developing the destination? A quality hotel is always an essential element in the growth of a destination. Classic Avenue being situated in a place like Thiruvananthapuram, the capital of Gods Own Country can create wonders as we offer unmatched amenities to the discerning traveller. The proximity of the hotel to the tourist attractions and business locations along with the accessibility options like airport and rail services is a crucial factor. We boast of all these. Could you tell us about your back ground and how did you come to the industry? From my childhood days I had a passion for meeting people; understand their needs and make them comfortable within available sources. That is why I choose hospitality industry as my career. After completing my graduation in Hotel Management I did my MBA in Operations

and Marketing. I began my career with Raheja Group of Hotels & Sterling Holidays. After working for 14 years in the hospitality business, I feel very fortunate to be associated with this growing industry. Tell us about your experience so far? Every moment of my life is a great experience - may be good or bad. I look only at the positive side of it. I believe that every failure provides us with an opportunity to learn something and plan better for next time. What plans - immediate and long term do you have? Classic Avenue is drawing up big expansion plans. We have tied up with the Best Western Group of Hotels. The brand itself has taken Classic Avenue to new heights. My goal is to elevate Classic Avenue to the status of a truly classic hotel among the top business class luxury hotels. Where would you like to see yourself, say, 10 years from now? My motto in life is - look before you leap. It is the most valuable piece of guidance in job handling. I always keep that in mind as the competition is always high. So keep oneself productive and useful to the organization. My vision after 10 years from now is to start an eco friendly resort. It is my dream to create my own exotic Plantation resort in Coorg. Which is your favourite destination? Manali, the awe inspiring hill resort which is sandwiched between the imposing peaks. Manali presents the distinguished holiday spot for all. The added attraction in Manali is its temples. Tell us about your family? I am married to my lovely wife Rashmi for eight years. She is always supportive. We have two children six year old Nayan Nachappa and Tanav Thimmaiah who is just nine months old. Not to forget my mother Latha Nachappa and my father Nachappa who blessed me always for success of everything in my life. My only brother Narendra Nachappa who is always been helpful, has also promised in future to support in making my dream project come true. Tell us about your Hobbies and other interest? I like to meet people, try to understand different cultures and lifestyles. I also like to enjoy the beauty of nature. After my busy schedule I indulge myself into the fascinating world of music, which relaxes my mind and body.

TRENDS

SLTDA plans Rest Houses and Holiday Resorts for Budget Travellers n keeping with the Narambamu Sri Lanka project launched by the Ministry of Tourism, in partnership with Sri Lanka Tourism, the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA) has initiated a campaign to refurbish the existing, SLTDA owned rest houses and holiday resorts. The Narambamu Sri Lanka project singularly aims to spur interest in domestic tourism, and encourage Sri Lankans to travel within our own country, discovering lesser known attractions among the more widely known, and popular sites of historic and cultural interest. SLTDA owns and manage pilgrim rest houses at Kataragama and Anuradhapura and domestic holiday resorts at Nuwara Eliya and Bandarawela. During the year 2007 and 2008, Bandarawella and

Nuwara Eliya resorts were fully refurbished and the Kataragama Pilgrim Rest is being refurbished at present as well as other ground improvements being planned for the immediate surroundings. The Anuradhapura Rest House will be refurbished subsequently. The Kataragama Rest House is located within the sacred city area and neither liquor, nor fish or meat, are served at the venue. The Anuradhapura Rest House is located in close proximity to the Sri Maha Bodhi Tree and while liquor is not being served there, only vegetarian food will be served at this rest house too, in future. Furthermore, it has been decided that liquor will not be served at Nuwara Eliya and Bandarawela Resorts, effective 14th April, in a bid to attract families with children.

SLTDA and SLTPB Chairman, Bernard Goonetilleke said, “With the change in concepts, our products will be placed in a unique position, differentiated from other establishments in the region. Combined with the economical prices, this will offer the average local person, the freedom to travel within our country with ease”. The Anuradhapura Rest House will be the only establishment in the area where singularly vegetarian dishes will be served. This will form a key differentiation in terms of this venue, and its value as a family retreat will be enhanced. Director Domestic Tourism and

Community Relations of SLTDA, P U Rathnayake stated, “We have carried out a training programme with the assistance of Sri Lanka Institute of Tourism and Hotel

Management (SLITHM) and Hotel Taj Samudra to train the chefs in the preparation of vegetarian dishes, in order to ensure the food retains high quality”.

ASIAN TRAVELLER MARCH 2009

ECONOMIC IMPACT

WTTC Unveils 2009 Economic Impact Report he World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) has revealed the results of its 2009 Economic Impact Research at its annual ITB Berlin press conference in the presence of

deterioration in travel and tourism activity through the second half of 2008 and the bleak macroeconomic forecast for 2009, WTTC's latest research shows that travel and tourism economy GDP will

Economics' Managing Director, Adrian Cooper, added. "Job losses are likely to be significant, with employment falling by around 10 million over the next two years towards 215 million in 2010, before recovering thereafter." A key message from WTTC is that travel and tourism is a major contributor to job creation and poverty alleviation - "a fact that policymakers would do well to recognise and take into account in their ITB Berlin Press Conference â&#x20AC;&#x201C; World Travel & Tourism Council; Adrian Cooper Managing short- to Director of Oxford Economics and Jean-Claude Baumgarten, President of WTTC medium-term industry leaders from different contract by 3.6 per cent in strategies," said Baumgarten. sectors of travel and tourism - 2009. And it is expected to "The industry is not expecting high-level government remain weak in 2010 with only a bail-out. It needs a representatives, and its marginal growth, of less than supportive framework from research partner Oxford 0.3 per cent, currently government to help it weather Economics. "This year, the predicted - on what will the current storm. And task of assessing travel and already be a weak 2009. governments would also do tourism trends and drawing "Lower fuel costs will make well to recognise Travel and up forecasts has been more a difference," said Tourism's potential to energise challenging than ever because Baumgarten, "as will lower the economy once the current of all the uncertainties," said general inflation, which should crisis eases." Jean-Claude Baumgarten, reverse part of last year's Investment and President and CEO, WTTC. squeeze on households' corporate travel predicted Given the significant spending power. But given to be hit hardest deterioration in travel and how widespread and deep the Travel and tourism tourism activity through the current recession is, it is investment and corporate second half of 2008 and the inevitable that Travel and travel are expected to be the bleak macro-economic Tourism will continue to be hardest hit this year. Real forecast for 2009, WTTC's affected." investment spending is latest research shows that the "Indeed, as a relatively forecast to decline by 5 per travel and tourism economy cyclical industry, its cent in 2009 and a further 1.25 GDP will shrink by 3.6 per contribution to world GDP is per cent in 2010. cent in 2009. expected to fall further in the Residents' travel and Two difficult years in next two years - from 9.6 per tourism spending is likely to prospect cent in 2008 to just over 9 per be the least affected, but even Given the significant cent in 2010," Oxford here a decline of 2.75 per cent

MARCH 2009 ASIAN TRAVELLER

is projected for 2009, despite the substitution of domestic for some foreign travel. Travel and tourism's contribution to GDP and jobs will still be positive longer term "Nevertheless," said Baumgarten, "looking beyond the current crisis, travel and tourism is expected to resume its leading role in driving global growth, creating jobs and alleviating poverty. "Emerging economies are expected to be the main engines of growth," Baumgarten added, "generating hundreds of millions of new travellers from among the growing middle classes in countries like China, India and Brazil - boosting international travel, but also creating an increasingly vibrant domestic tourism sector." In developed countries, the increasing priority given to leisure activities can be expected to enhance demand for travel to existing and new tourism destinations once consumers regain confidence, while the popularity of short breaks - both domestic and international - will continue to expand in the medium to longer term. Overall, the travel and tourism economy is forecast to grow by 4 per cent per annum in real terms over the next ten years. By 2019, travel and tourism will account for 275 million jobs, representing 8.4 per cent of total employment across the world. "This means that travel and tourism will continue growing in importance as one of the world's highest priority industries and employers," Baumgarten said.

NEWSLINE

WTM to Run Summer Travel Conference orld Travel Market will be hosting a summer conference focusing on the global travel market in June at Portland Place, London. The half day WTM Vision event will incorporate a worldwide industry overview, debates on responsible tourism and a comprehensive review of the UK outbound market. WTM chairman Fiona Jeffery said: "As we celebrate our 30th anniversary it's the right time launch a mid-year conference and use all our expertise and experience to further help the travel industry thrive during these current uncertain economic times." High-calibre speakers, content and research to give analysis, statistical assessment and interpretations to the industry's senior leaders is being promised.

Singapore Visas Now Available in 24 Hrs ingapore Tourism Board has launched e-visas across India, which will be introduced shortly across the country by its Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The new facility will now reduce the time for Indian travellers to obtain a Singapore visa, giving a general boost to both leisure and business travel alike. This muchawaited initiative, aimed at introducing hassle-free visa facilities, will commence on April 2009. E-visas are designed to enable select partners, including visa service providers across India, to submit a visa on behalf of their customers online and print the approved e-visa through the SAVE (Submission of Applications for Visa Electronically) program. Selected partners will no longer need to make a trip to the consular offices to submit documents for visas, neither, will they need to make a trip for visa collection,

Shanghai Ready for IT&CM 2009 he third IT&CM China event will be the platform for international and leading Chinese players in the MICE industry to explore exciting business opportunities, generate new sales leads and strengthen business partnerships with existing clients. Tailored for the world's most populous country, the IT&CM China trade show is a spin-off from IT&CM Asia, the region's premier meetings and incentive travel show. For 16 years, IT&CM Asia has played a vital role in promoting the AsiaPacific region as a MICE destination, as well as a

source for MICE visitors. The show begins on April 14 and conclude on April 17. The venue, ShanghaiMart Expo is located in the Shanghai Hongqiao Economic & Technological Development Zone and surrounded by many excellent hotels, commercial buildings and convenient transportation links.As one of the leading exhibition centres in Shanghai with a total of 37,000 sqm of pillarless exhibition space and multi-functional convention facilities, ShanghaiMart Expo is an ideal venue for a variety of trade events.

as approvals will be given online. A printout of the e-visa can now be carried on departure. With this initiative the time required to obtain a Singapore visa in

India will now be just "one" working day. Commenting on the e-visa initiative, Randall Tall, Regional Director, South Asia, Middle East and Africa, Singapore Tourism Board said, "Singapore has always been the top outbound destination from India and we are optimistic of maintaining this position through the launch of measures like the e-visa". www.ica.gov.sg

MakeMyTrip.com Selects Amadeus as Technology Partner akeMyTrip.com has announced Amadeus as its exclusive technology partner to power all its online bookings. For the website's customers, this will mean more choices as well as an enhanced online shopping experience. MakeMyTrip.com has been operating its international bookings engine on Amadeus' platform since 2007. Following the success of this partnership, MakeMyTrip.com has decided to move its domestic airline booking engine onto the Amadeus platform as well. The resulting synergies in domestic and international operations will lead to the lowering of operational costs for the travel portal. The website will operate using Amadeus Web Services 2.0 - a second-generation, stateof-the-art global technology platform that provides full access to Amadeus' content. Amadeus Master Pricer, a cutting-edge low fare search tool, will help customers to quickly and easily find options that suit their travel needs and budget.

ASIAN TRAVELLER MARCH 2009

ITB BERLIN ALBUM

MARCH 2009 ASIAN TRAVELLER

ITB BERLIN ALBUM

Kuwait Airways Annual Agents Awards Nite, Chennai The Annual Agents Awards Nite of Kuwait Airways has been held in Chennai. Pran S. Dasan, Manager, Sales and Mark Marketing- PAX, Indian subcontinent, Kuwait Airways and Shyamaprasad Kallat, Manager. Passenger Sales, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka and Eastern India, Kuwait Airways were present on the occasion.

ASIAN TRAVELLER MARCH 2009

COLUMN

n every organisation, the standing grievance of any employee is that the organisation is least bothered about his or her promotion or career growth. Many a time, employees deem it fit that their mere tenure of service is more than enough to claim the move up. Never do they realize that a promotion for one follows the act of one's giving promotion to the organisation. The lotus flower in a pond rises up directly proportional to the rise of the water in the pond. It cannot grow tall in isolation. Promote the company and get yourself promoted is the secret of promotion. All these years of my managerial positions, I am yet to come by a staff member who would call in to inform that he or she is coming early

salary. Growth will happen to you in your company and for some reasons if it does not happen there, it will happen elsewhere for you. It is a golden truism that when you work more than what you are paid for a day will come sooner than later that you will be paid more than you work for! It will be worth one's while to update one's resume every one year, if not every six months. For most of the people, the only change they may have to effect on their updation could be possibly the change of date of their resume and their age. For otherwise, the name remains the same; the academics remain the same; the skill-set (if at all!) remains the same. In most of the cases, when an employee claims that he or she has put in TEN years of experience, it is mostly ONE year experience TEN times and nothing more! There was a mason working for a king for all his life. He was about to retire but still the king would not spare him. He Mike Flanagan commissioned to do one more to the office for the day. far, it is definitely better than mansion for him. The mason Invariably they all call in only employees on tour of duty was already remorseful that he to report their coming late. We having an ayurvedic massage had been hardly rewarded for believe only in taking and not at the company's cost but all his work for so many years. giving. There is this hilarious foisting it on to the room It added to his sulking but he instance from an office. An service or their food expenses. had to carry out the king's employee comes in late for the This real-life incident must decree. He plodded through duty in the morning by an have inspired the cartoonist the work half-heartedly and hour. This is being Mike Flanagan to do his strip completed the construction in pointed out by his cartoon Hambone where a slipshod fashion. The day of manager and a warning Hambone comes back from his the completion also happened given. Towards the tour and submits a bill which to be his last day of work. The evening, the manager includes $50 against medical king strode on the scene and finds the same employee expense. When queried as to gave a hug to the mason and preparing himself to what kind of medical declared: 'My most beloved leave even before the emergency it was, Hambone mason! Here is the key of the sign-out time. When answers: 'I took the nurse I mansion! And this is my stopped on that, the met on the train out for lunch!' parting gift for you!' Had only employee explains: 'I The one sure-fire way of the mason had continued to was late in coming. Let working your way up in your give his best?! me at least leave the organisation I know office in time!' is: 'Be always larger I am sure in some of than your salary!' the organizations; the And at every stage only manual that is ever maintain the same referred to by some of credo. Once you are the employees is just the elevated onto a manual on Policies & higher bracket, again Eligibilities. They be larger than that

V DURAIKKANNAN

MARCH 2009 ASIAN TRAVELLER

religiously use up all the givens in the manual. I have seen this interesting but insightful (!) clause in the book of medical facilities for the employees, a clause like this: 'An employee is allowed extraction of tooth limited to a maximum of TEN in a financial year' This definitely would mean that there were cases where employees had manipulated to claim more than ten extractions in a year (despite having only twentysix teeth for all their lifetime)! A year ago, there was a tremendous uproar in Bangalore that an IT company was spoiling its employees and encouraging a moral decadence by incorporating a 'dating' allowance for its employees. Though I would agree that it was carrying it a little too

AVIATION

Paramount Airways Plans

Foray into East aramount Airways, the Coimbatore based “allbusiness class airline”, is planning to launch operations in the eastern region in June with two-three daily flights between Chennai

all major cities of the South to Kolkata via Chennai from June.” There were also plans to operate direct flights from other major southern cities to Kolkata subsequently, he said. Paramount Airways is the market leader in the southern region with a share of 26 per cent, he said. The company is also eyeing Kolkata as a gateway for launching operations in North-Eastern airports such as Dibrugarh, he said. “The airline M. Thiagarajan, MD, Paramount Airways meets WB plans to cover all major cities in the CM Budhadeb Bhattacharjee western region by 2009 and start operations in and Kolkata, said M. the north and North-Eastern Thiagarajan, Managing regions from 2010,” he added. Director. Speaking to newspersons in Having presence in most major cities in the South since Kolkatta, he said, “We are looking at starting flights from its inception in 2005, the

Qatar Airways Takes Eco-friendly Route airline recently launched operations in the western region – Goa, Pune and Ahmedabad. The company will be adding three Embraer 170/190 family series aircraft to its basket of five aircraft by March, the Managing Director said, while adding that the company plans to own 11 aircraft by the year end and 20 by 2010. It is also considering buying 10 aircraft of the Boeing-787 or Airbus-350 class for launching international operations in 2011. “Initially, we plan to operate 3-5 hour duration flights to the Far East and Middle East from cities in south India,” he said. While most airlines in the country suffered a 7-8 per cent decline in passenger volumes this fiscal, Paramount has seen a passenger growth of 5-6 per cent with a load factor of over 80 per cent, Thiagarajan added.

Royal Jet Introduces Unique Personal Chef Services oyal Jet, the international luxury flight services company headquartered in Abu Dhabi, has launched another ‘world-first’ by becoming the only private jet charter company to offer its guests a personal chef, providing them with bespoke gourmet dining based on their own individual preferences. The Royal Jet chefs offer pre-flight consultancy at the time of booking and are then available to travel with the clients for the entire duration of the journey. Aubrey Tiedt, Director of Services & Cabin Crew, says the Royal Jet chefs, collectively have extensive experience in catering for some of the highest profile world events and cooking for government leaders and heads of state. “They prepare and plan the entire culinary side of a guest’s journey,

discussing preferences and providing customised menu solutions in the planning stages,

Abu Dhabi Aviation and the “Presidential Flight Authority” the royal flight service, and is chaired by His

Qatar Airways has launched an innovative Economy Class inflight service on all flights operating to and from the UK. The revamped concept sees all onboard meals served in a new presentation style using recyclable materials. The lightweight trays and disposable mugs and boxes are 99 percent recyclable, offering a more ecofriendly way to serve in-flight meals.

SriLankan Holidays’ New Package SriLankan Holidays, the leisure arm of SriLankan Airlines, has launched a special ‘second passenger travels at one rupee only’ holiday package. Every traveller who buys the two days/ three nights holiday package to Sri Lanka can take another traveller along by paying only one rupee, says a SriLankan Airlines press release. The package is for travellers from India and is valid till April 30 this year. It is being offered from seven Indian cities – New Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Chennai, Thiruvananthapuram, Goa and Tiruchi, the release adds.

Flying from Mumbai to Cost More

Royal Jet Personal Chefs Mark & Daniel enjoy their own culinary delights, served up by cabin crew members Therese & Hayley

including not just the food itself, but also the finest quality beverages from Royal Jet’s cellar,” she says. Royal Jet, is jointly owned by

Excellency Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, who serves as a Minister in the UAE Federal Cabinet.

Passengers flying from Mumbai will have to pay more from April 1 this year. This follows the Government accepting a proposal from Mumbai International Airport Ltd (MIAL) to levy a development fee of Rs 100 on very domestic and Rs 600 on international passengers. In a statement, the Government has said that the levy will be on an ‘ad-hoc’ basis. The final determination of the levy may be made by the Government or the regulator on a detailed review after six months from the effective date.

ASIAN TRAVELLER MARCH 2009

FOCUS

ueensland, the northeastern state of Australia, is home to many tourist attractions. Bordered by the Coral Sea and Pacific Ocean, this Australian state offers diverse attractions and options for holidaying. Queensland occupies about 25 per cent of Australia and has a broad multi-cultural community including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander descendants. The region enjoys a tropical climate, top holiday spots, relaxed and casual atmosphere and its friendly people make it an ideal holiday destination. The main tourist destinations of Queensland include Great Barrier Reef, Brisbane, Cairns, Port Douglas, The Daintree, Gold Coast, Hervey

Bay/Fraser Island, Townsville, Magnetic Island, North Stradbroke Island, South Stradbroke Island, Sunshine Coast, Airlie Beach, Whitehaven Beach, Hamilton Island, Daydream Island etc. there are also a number of theme parks mostly in the Gold Coasta and wildlife parks including Currumbin, David Fleay, Kumbartcho, Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary etc.

Douglas are the main attractions along with the world's longest lava tube system in Undara Volcanic National Park and a 1930s Spanish-inspired castle in Paronella Park. Brisbane is always filled with energy and endless activities and is also one of the cities with the very best food, wine, arts, entertainment and major sporting

are added attractions. The Sunshine Coast, a coastal region located in South East Queensland, north of Brisbane is a serene place characterized by expansive coastal views. The renowned beaches here are at Noosa Heads, Alexandra Headland, Mooloolaba, Coolum and Kings Beach in Caloundra. The seafood on the Mooloolah river is also

The Great Barrier Reef is the largest coral reef system and also biggest single structure made by living organisms in the world. Composed of over 2,900 individual reefs and 900 islands stretching for 2,600 kilometres (1,600m) over an area of approximately 344,400 square kilometres (133,000 sq m), located in the Coral Sea, off the coast of Queensland. It can be seen from the outer space and was selected as a World Heritage Site in 1981. The place is most known for snorkeling, scuba diving, fishing, roving, water sports, bungee jumping, river rafting, sea kayaking etc. The muti-coloured corals, sponges and fishes underwater give the travellers a treat for a lifetime. The Daintree Rainforest, Tjapukai the famous aboriginal dance theatre, the Kuranda scenic railway, Mission Beach, Port

events and shopping. The nightlife here is vibrant. Outdoor adventures such as sailing, surfing, hot-air ballooning and excursions make a trip to the place memorable. From the sun and sand drenched islands in the east, to its cool and crisp mountain rainforests in the west and all the attractions of a vibrant, modern city in between - Brisbane offers the best of both worlds. The Gold Coast is a city located in the southeast corner of Queensland. It is renowned for its sunny subtropical climate, surfing beaches, expansive waterways and canal systems, a skyline dominated by high-rise apartment buildings, a world heritage-listed rainforest in the west of the city, active nightlife and its wide variety of tourist attractions. Surfers Paradise is one of the most popular holiday destinations in the Gold Coast and in whole of Australia. The theme parks, dolphin and sea lion here

famous. They are very popular for surfing. The main attractions of the region are Steve Irwin's Australia Zoo, UnderWater World marine park, Aussie World with the Ettamogah Pub, The Buderim Ginger Factory, Big Pineapple and the Majestic Theatre. The rich natural biodiversity of the area is also another attraction. There are five separate parks in both coastal and inland regions, including Mapleton Falls National Park, Kondalilla National Park, The Glasshouse Mountains National Park, Noosa National Park, and the Great Sandy National Park, which includes sections on Fraser Island and in Cooloola near Rainbow Beach. Whitsundays, Fraser Island, Gladestone, Birdsville, Platypus, Loggerhead Turtle, Cattle mustering, Wallaman Falls are other popular spots for tourists in Queensland. www.tourism.australia.com

MARCH 2009 ASIAN TRAVELLER

Tourism Australia / Tourism Western Australia

MARKETING

AVIAREPS to Promote Disney Destinations in India

Thomas Drechsler Joseph Fernandes COO, General Manager AVIAREPS Tourism AVIAREPS (India)

MARCH 2009 ASIAN TRAVELLER

isney Destinations has appointed AVIAREPS as its new sales and marketing representative in India. The Mumbai-based AVIAREPS subsidiary will be responsible for maximising exposure and sales through Indian consumer and travel trade channels. Disney Destinations is one of the four major business segments of The Walt Disney Company, the largest media and entertainment corporation in the world. It includes Hong Kong Disneyland Resort, Disneyland Resort Paris, Walt Disney World Resort in Florida USA, Disneyland Resort in California USA, and the Disney Cruise Line. The tourism marketing and public relations firm will also conduct training seminars for the travel trade and organise familiarisation trips to Disney resort destinations. AVIAREPS will further function as Disney Destination's press office in India, helping to generate awareness about new Disney announcements

concerning its worldwide parks and resorts. Development of brochures and an in-country website for information will also be an AVIAREPS priority as it introduces a comprehensive Disney Destinations communications strategy for India. The marketing and public relations firm will also conduct training seminars for the travel trade and organize

parks at five of the world's leading family vacation destinations Disneyland Resort, Walt Disney World Resort, Tokyo Disney Resort, Disneyland Resort Paris and Hong Kong Disneyland. It also includes: Disney Cruise Line; Disney Vacation Club; Adventures by Disney; Disney Regional Entertainment, which operates the ESPN Zone sports dining and entertainment centers; World of

familiarization trips to Disney resort destinations. AVIAREPS' Tourism COO, Thomas Drechsler, states: "In fact, we are convinced that now is a favourable time to enter the Indian market by promoting further entertainment elements to the consumers. The AVIAREPS Group is very pleased to be entrusted with assisting Disney Destinations in this exciting challenge and thus to expand the existing partnership beyond the Korean market." Disney Destinations is part of Walt Disney Parks and Resorts. This segment of The Walt Disney Company encompasses 11 theme

Disney stores in New York, Orlando and Anaheim; and Walt Disney Imagineering, which creates and designs all Disney parks, resorts and attractions. AVIAREPS India is a joint venture of AVIAREPS AG and AVIAREPS Marketing Garden. AVIAREPS - Marketing Garden is the number one tourism representation company worldwide, with over 80 tourism and 60 aviation clients in over 33 countries. Its India office staffed with five professionals is located in the commercial district of Mumbai and is led by General Manager Joseph Fernandes.

NEWSLINE

Thailand Targets School Tours from the Middle East xploring and developing lucrative niches in established source markets is an intelligent response to the global recession. A great recent

example is the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), which, in collaboration with the private sector, has launched a campaign that directly targets international schools in the United Arab Emirates.

‘Jump to Amazing Thailand’ aims to promote Thailand as a quality valuefor-money school camp destination by targeting principals and head teachers of leading international schools. The campaign showcases educational programs and experiences centered on themes, such as the environment, culture, history and other fields of study, or tailormade to meet the curriculum needs of schools. The TAT will host interested school representatives on a trip to Thailand later this year to inspect first-hand the services and infrastructure and meet qualified tour operators.

Malaysia Targets Six Lakh Tourists from India alaysia Tourism plans to attract at least six lakh travellers from India in 2009. According to Zulkefli Sharif, Director – South Asia, West Asia and Africa Division, Malaysia Tourism Development Board, Malaysia, a delegation from that country, comprising tour operators and hoteliers, is scheduled to meet their counterparts in India and explore mutual business opportunities and to offer new packages featuring new

Keys Hotels Launch User Friendly Website eys Hotels, the brand from the Berggruen Hotels Private Limited. stable, a hotel venture backed by Berggruen Holdings Inc recently launched its new customer-focused, interactive website www.keyshotels.com. This interactive, user friendly website has been especially designed keeping the new age traveler in mind looking for a quick and hassle free hotel booking process. Sanjay Sethi, CEO & MD, Keys Hotels says, “With Keys Hotels we have always attempted to redefine the hospitality experience for travelers, therefore a quick and hassle free booking process is the first step towards it.” Berggruen Hotels, launched their brand of midmarket hotels,”Keys Hotels” in India in January 2007. The venture is backed by Berggruen Holdings Inc., a New York headquartered private equity fund. Thirty-eight hotels are planned in the next five years in India with simultaneous push in other emerging markets around the globe. The Dukes Retreat, A Keys Resort, Khandala became the first hotel when it came under the Keys Brand in January 2009. Keys Hotel, Thiruvananthapuram is scheduled to open in May 2009 followed by Keys Hotel, Ludhiana in July 2009.

itineraries, fresh locales focusing beyond Kuala Lumpur tourism products. “India is the sixth most prominent tourism source market for us,” said Sharif. Pricing a two-nightthree-day package at Rs 20,000 a person (which includes travel, stay and food), the country targets beyond metros at cash-rich tier-II and tier-III cities in India.

TAFI Members Visit Ko Chang and Chiang Mai ravel Agents Federation of India (TAFI) Managing Committee members had the unique opportunity to experience some of Thailand’s most fascinating tourist attractions when they were on a fam trip to the kingdom in the first week of February. TAT Mumbai representative office organized a fam trip to Thailand that visited Ko Chang, Chiang Mai and Bangkok for Travel Agents Federation of India (TAFI) Managing Committee

members from Mumbai and New Delhi. On their trip to Amazing Thailand, the agents experienced new attractions and very good hotels and resorts at all three places they visited. Highlights included Chiang Dao Elephant Camp and Tiger Kingdom in Chiang Mai and the Sunset Cruise on a luxury catamaran and beautiful sightseeing in Ko Chang. The trip was part of a proactive marketing approach by TAT to have a closer relationship with top travel agents

who sell Thailand in India. The delegation also met Santichai Euachongprasit, TAT’s Deputy Governor for International

Marketing and Prakit Piriyakiat, Executive Director, ASEAN, South Asia and South Pacific Region Department at TAT’s head office.

ASIAN TRAVELLER MARCH 2009

NEWSLINE

Royal Rajasthan to be Promoted at Laws for Foreign Cruise Ships Eased According to a Ministry of Shipping notification, foreign cruise ships can now take passengers all along India’s coast without restriction. The government has eased a law banning foreign-registered ships from calling at more than one Indian port without a licence from the country’s maritime regulator. The relaxation is for 10 years and takes effect immediately.

Sikkim Opens Casino to Lure Tourists The Sikkim government has recently opened the first casino in the state at Royal Plaza Hotel in Gangtok and named it ‘Casino Sikkim.’ The casino was opened in order to improve tourists’ inflow in the state. The state government aims to attract highend domestic and foreign tourists with the casino bid, which has already created ripples in the hospitality sector both national and international.

UB Group to Promote Wine Tourism The Vijay Mallya-owned UB Group is planning to enter the tourism industry, by promoting its Four Seasons winery at Baramati in Maharashtra as a lifestyle destination. “A part of our winery in Baramati will house 14 well-equipped rooms, along with recreational facilities and a pantry which could host 700 people at a time. We intend to get into wine tourism and expand the wine category by building on an all-round lifestyle concept” Abhay Kewadkar, Business Head (Wines) of United Spirits told a newspaper recently in Kolkata.

MARCH 2009 ASIAN TRAVELLER

Great Indian Travel Bazaar reat Indian Travel Bazzar (GITB) 2009, a travel fair organised jointly by the Department of Tourism, Government of Rajasthan and Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI), will be the right platform to to promote and sell luxury train, Royal Rajasthan on Wheels (RROW) to foreign tour operators and travel writers from target countries, markets and tour operators, investors, major airlines and media from across

India. GITB will be held at B.M. Birla Convention Centre, Jaipur, Rajasthan, India from April 19 to 21. “We are expecting the

Great Indian Travel Bazaar 2009 to be bigger and better this year in comparison to last year. The main product which the DoT, Rajasthan will try to

sell and promote is the new luxury train - Royal Rajasthan on Wheels. The event will see participation of about 150 international representatives and more than 200 domestic travel, trade and tourism players,” said Anand K Tripathi, Assistant Director, Department of Tourism, Rajasthan. Pre and post the event, FAM tours will be hosted by the DoT, Rajasthan for interested participants in and around the city of Jaipur.

TAAI Managing Committee Visits Dubai he management committee team of Travel Agents Association of India (TAAI) have visited Dubai on a threeday familiarization tour aimed at further promoting Dubai as a value-for-money destination targeting the Indian outbound travellers.

The visit of the 24-member delegation to the emirate has been organised by DTCM’s India representative office with support from The Atlantis - The Palm, Movenpick Hotel and Lama Group. From 198,383 Indian guests that Dubai hotel establishments hosted in 1999,

the number of Indian hotel guests increased to 410,821 in 2007. DTCM has been operating a representative office in India since the past 12 years. Since 2004, it has been holding Dubai Road Shows in Indian cities and the 2009 edition of this promotional programme concluded earlier this month. As per Dubai Visitors Survey 2006-2007 conducted by DTCM, Indian visitors are satisfied or over satisfied (91 per cent) with their overall experience in Dubai and 65 per cent of them said they will take another holiday in Dubai in the future. Saleh Mohammed Al Geziry, DTCM Director of Overseas Promotions, said: “The number of Indian tourists coming to Dubai has been rising significantly over the years. DTCM has been working towards tapping more Indian tourists and businessmen to the emirate.” Carl Vaz, Director of DTCM Representative Office in Mumbai who accompanied the delegation said, “The visit of the TAAI will help us in promoting bilateral tourism between the two countries.”

HOSPITALITY

WelcomHeritage Adds Three More Properties to the Chain elcomHeritage, a joint venture with ITC Ltd and His Highness of Jodhpur, has over the years emerged as India's largest chain of Heritage properties. A splendid array of properties, numbering more than 60, spread across 19 states in India, offer unique experiences to its guests through its range and variety. Perhaps the most important ingredient that sets the chain apart, is the authenticity to heritage that can be experienced at each and every location. The three new properties that are being signed are important additions to the chain and will add to the infinite variety that guests expect from WelcomHeritage. The properties are located near Hampi in Karnataka, within the city of

Shivavilas Palace

Jaipur in Rajasthan and close to Nainital at Uttarakhand. They are destinations that are separated by many kilometres will also offer experiences that will be totally different from each other as well as

from the other properties in the chain. The first is the regal Shivavilas Palace at Sandur, 40 km from Hampi - the seat of the Vijaynagar Kingdom in Karnataka. Sandur has been a strategic stronghold and the

Naukuchiatal Resort, located 30 km from Nainital and a new project on the banks of the Naukuchiatal Lake. It promises to be a very special resort, in idyllic surroundings and will open with 15 cottages. It has been planned as a

Sirsi Havli

seat of the Ghorpade Dynasty and Shivavilas Palace is built on a sprawling 20-acre estate. The property will open with 10 spacious suites, but there is plenty of scope for expansion. At Jaipur, the haveli in the hamlet of Sirsi, may be considered the exact opposite to the Palace ambience of the the Shivavilas Palace. Here guests can expect to experience the true mood of an Indian village. you will find a true village ambience - and that too in the heart of a bustling city like Jaipur! , This haveli, earlier owned

by a family of Kathas is located in a village that lies within the estate of the Royal family of Jaipur. Now more than a 100-year's old Sirsi Haveli is being fully renovated. The third is WelcomHeritage

Nature Resort offering Yoga, Meditation and a Rural Experience. "We have been keen to enhance our presence in the South of India and with the addition of the Shivavilas Palace, we can now count 2 royal palaces in the state of Karnataka. The location being close to the heritage site of Hampi, the seat of the Vijayanagar Empire, makes it a very important destination", said WelcomHeritage President Rakesh Mathur, . "We have also been hoping that we would be able to add a haveli near Jaipur for many years. Sirsi Haveli, is particularly special as it offers a village atmosphere, right in the heart of Jaipur. We are sure that it will attract tourists both domestic and international, with its rustic charm and convenient location. The third project is being created in keeping with our plans on creating Nature Resorts at heritage locations. WelcomHeritage Naukuchiatal Resort may thus be considered among the first of WelcomHeritage's Nature Resorts," he added.

Dish Hospitality Plans Multi-Brand Restaurants ish Hospitality, a Wadhawan Enterprises, will invest Rs 300 crore by 2012 to open multi-brand chain of restaurants and cafĂŠs. The company is also looking to enhance its international ties-ups to gain a larger pie in the dining business. The expansions will be funded through internal accruals. Dish Hospitality

operates in various price points. Aurus is a finedine restaurant while Nashta Chai, a kiosk serving street food from across the country. Other brands include Tasty Tangles, an oriental restaurant which is a franchisee of Dubai-based Jumeirah hotel and Sancho's, a Mexican restaurant.

Fortune Park Opens Hotel in Lavasa ITC's wholly-owned subsidiary Fortune Park Hotels and Hindustan Construction Corporation subsidiary Lavasa Corporation announced the opening of a 60-room hotel 'Fortune Select Dasve', in Lavasa. Lavasa is a hill town being developed on 12,500 acres by Lavasa Corporation. It is about three hours drive from Mumbai and an hour from Pune. Fortune Park Hotels is a fast growing chain of first class hotels with 52 properties across 41 cities.

Kempiniski to Expand in CE The Kempiniski Group is expanding its portfolio through Central Europe by entering Slovakia with its Grand Hotel High Tatras, created in a series of restored 19th and 20th Century buildings. A second hotel in Slovakia in the contemporary new-build RiverPark in the centre of Bratislava, is expected in 2010. Also due this summer is Kempinski's first property in Croatia. Kempinski Hotel Adriatic is situated on the coast of Istria and with views towards Portoroz in Slovenia.

'Ginger' unveiled in Mangalore Roots Corporation Limited, a wholly owned subsidiary of the Indian Hotels Company Limited, launched its GenNext 'Smart Basics' Hotel - Ginger in Mangalore. Ananthakrishna, Chairman, Karnataka Bank Limited, inaugurated Ginger's third hotel in Karnataka. The 79 room Ginger Hotel is located Near Kottara Chawki Junction, Mangalore.

ASIAN TRAVELLER MARCH 2009

NORTH EAST

In the Ahom Heartland MD. SABIR NISHAT istoric Rangpur, about a mile south of the present Sivasagar town of Upper Assam, was the fourth capital of the Ahom kingdom. It completed 300 years of its glorious existence in 1999. The old city dotted with architectural marvels and sculptures, was not only the capital but also a place of military importance of the Ahom kingdom for more than 95 years. It was Swargadeo Rudra Sinha who shifted the capital from Gargaon to Rangpur on 12th of Agrahayana of Saka 1621 (1699 AD). According to Captain Welsh, Rangpur was a large and thickly populated city, twenty miles in extent. Historians Bhuban Chandra Handique and Hem Burhagohain said that Rangpur was bounded by the Dikhow river on the north. The chronicle Changrung Phukanar Buranji states that in Saka (16211699 AD) the city of Rangpur was started with a number of houses and it was inaugurated in Saka 1629, AD 1707. It was King Rudra Sinha's efforts that led to the permanent phase of non-religious architecture of the Ahoms. 'He was anxious to build a palace and the city of bricks, but there was no one in his kingdom who knows how to do this. He, therefore, imported from Koch Behar an artisan named Ghanashyam, under whose supervision numerous brick buildings were erected at Rangpur, close to Sibsagar, and also at Charaideo.' (Gait) Rangpur possesses the largest of the secular buildings built by the Ahoms, the best of which is the popularly known Talatal-ghar

MARCH 2009 ASIAN TRAVELLER

(meaning a house having several storeys). This massive structure is aligned in a north-south axis with annexes on its either side. The ground floor of this complex consists of rows of columns and with semi-circular arches, some portion of which are kept as stylobates, while some others are enclosed and converted into chambers. It is said that some portions of the open structures were used as stables for elephants and horses while the enclosed ones were the granaries and stores. Of the seven storeys, the Talatal-ghar contains three storeys below the ground level. The underground tunnels - allegedly filled up by the East India Company during the last century - connect the Rangpur Kareng-ghar with the bank of the Dikhow river located at a distance of about one and a half mile from the Talatal-ghar and the Kareng-ghar located at Gargaon, about ten miles away. It is gathered from the scanty references in the chronicles that after his coronation ceremony, Swargadeo Rudra Sinha constructed the Joysagar tank and the two temples of Vishnu and Shiva and also established his royal residence to its north naming the locality as Rangpur (Satsari Buranji). Satsari Buranji says that the king also erected a Hewali-ghar (pleasure house) at Rangpur and the Talatal-ghar (multi-storeyed building) at Tengabari (Ibid.). The chronicle further states that king Rajesvar Sinha (AD 1751-1768) made the multi-storeyed buildings at Rangpur and Gargaon permanent, evidently adopting brick-

masonry (Ibid). From the references it is clear that the Talatalghar built by Rudra Sinha was in the area known as Tengabari and that during Rajesvar Sinha's reign, Tengabari became Rangpur owing to a spurt in building activities from Jaisagar to Tengabari, including the shifting of the royal residence. The old timber Talatal-ghar of Tengabari was converted systematically into a brick building. Of the variety of architectural forms and the structural engineering established by Rudra Sinha, which formed the bases of the subsequent civil architecture of Assam, the most popular was the dochala or the cottage-type. Though it was originally used as the mandapa attached to the vimana of a temple, this form was also adopted for a number of massive secular buildings. The best example of this specimen is the Golaghar or the magazine house located within the city of Rangpur. The building, a hallmark of skillful craftsmanship, contain a mukhamandapa or the porch but of shorter span and height. The wellpreserved building exists axially and is attached to the southern gable-end. This massive and proportionate structure in the midst of verdant paddy fields stands majestically as a showpiece among the different edifices of the city of Rangpur. Another architectural grandeur of the city of Rangpur, which can justly claim the pride of place, is the imposing two-storeyed Rangghar - a unique amphitheater and a symbol of modern Assam. Assigned to the Ahom king, Pramatta Sinha (1744-1751), the structural details as well as the outer features of this building speak volumes of the imitation of the Islamic architecture. Its ground floor is basically a rectangle with two trapezoidal ends, while its huge shell-roof gives the impression of its parabolic form. The structure consists of rows of massive columns and pilasters with semi-circular arches. The remnants of ornamentation and ceilings of this structure are a testimony to the grandeur with which it was tried to be embellished. The outer beauty of this

unique structure constructed as a royal pavilion for witnessing outdoor games such as Md. Sabir Nishat wrestling, buffalo-fight, falconry, etc, is enhanced by crowning its ridge with the model of a lengthy pleasure boat with makara endings and a trefoil arched canopy at its centre. This two-storeyed structure having lean-to roofing with halfcircular eaves must have been influenced by the impermanent namghars (prayer-halls) of the neoVaishnava satras (monasteries) of Assam. There is no other secular structure of the Rang-ghar type in Assam. The fortified city of Rangpur except for some ruins of uncertain nature does not contain any other residential building. The only complex having secular character in the greater Rangpur area is the Ghanashyam Ghar, popularly known as the temple of Ghanashyam. The temple is named after Ghanashyam, the chief architect who was brought from Koch Behar in North Bengal by king Rudra Sinha (1696-1714). It comprises of a walled area having an Islamic-type gatehouse, a flatroofed structure with a verandah in one of its sides and a barrack with a few chambers. The main structure is embellished with exquisite terracotta work consisting of trellises, creepers, flowers and a number of gods and goddesses depicting different mythological scenes. Curiously, the structure has a mihrab in its north wall. Except for the terracotta figures on the outer surface, this building has the ingredients of a non-religious structure. Apart from the Ahoms, the Kacharis built capital and residential establishments enclosed by massive ramparts of bricks in Rangpur and Gargaon, not far off from the former. The Sivasagar district administration has been organising the Rangpur Utsav every year to showcase the tourism potential of this historic town of scenic beauty dotted with exquisite archaeological marvels.

MARKETING

Flanders Opens Tourist Office in India he Tourism Office for Flanders- Belgium today officially launched their India offices in Mumbai and Delhi respectively. Sabine Denis- Advisor to Flemish Minister of Economy, Enterprise, Science, Innovation and Trade, Jozef Vercruysse General Administrator Tourism Flanders and Piet Jonckers, Area Manager Intercontinental Markets, Tourism Flanders were also present to grace the occasion The primary objective of setting up these offices is to introduce Flanders- Belgium as a premier tourist destination in Europe; work closely with the Indian travel trade, and highlight the tourist attractions and facilities at the destination to potential Indian travellers. The office will also regularly advertise and disseminate information and press material to Indian media. Additionally the offices will work in close cooperation with interested

partners and stakeholders like Jet Airways- whose European operational hub is Brussels Airport, from where they connect on to their flights to North America. Besides Jet Airways also has a code share agreement with Brussels Airlines which network into all major European destinations. Jet Airways currently has daily flights from Mumbai, Delhi and Chennai to Brussels. The northern part of Belgium is known as Flanders of which Brussels is the capital. Brussels as the headquarters to the EU (European Union) and NATO it is often referred to as The Capital of Europe. It is an international metropolis - a mosaic of languages, cultures, and traditions. Brussels hosts over 80 museums, numerous tourist attractions, a vibrant nightlife, countless restaurants and distinctive shopping opportunities. Besides Brussels,

breathtakingly beautiful cities like Antwerp, Ghent, Bruges, Mechelen and Lueven complete the region of Flanders. Antwerp is also the capital of the international diamond trade and boasts of a sizeable Indian population. The Flanders region particularly known for its variety of beers, Michelin rated restaurants, old history and fine architecture, mouthwatering chocolates, lace and nightlife has something to interesting to offer to people of all ages and interests. Tourism Flanders (Belgium) promotes Flanders the northern region in Belgium internationally and facilitates specialist service and information on tourism issues, products and services to its trade and media partners. This comprises all forms of tourism (business-related as well as leisurerelated) and recreational activities in a tourist framework.

ASIAN TRAVELLER MARCH 2009

NEWSLINE

Kerala Tourism Steps into New Markets In

Sweden And Russia erala's beaches, backwaters and houseboats are key attractions that are being promoted in new markets prone to catch the God's Own Country' travel bug. Kerala Tourism made its

Dr. Venu IAS, Secretary, Kerala Tourism at MITT 2009

inaugural entry at the Moscow International Travel and Tourism (MITT) exhibition which took place on 18-21 March 2009 at the Russian capital. Kerala Tourism Secretary, Dr Venu V said Russia is a market that has strong potential for growth and MITT was an important event for reaching new clients in this market. "We need to

have an active presence in markets that are showing strong potential. The global tourism sector is extremely competitive and MITT provides another platform to talk to a new market. "We know that 2009 is

Resorts, Kadavu Resorts and Somatheeram Ayurvedic Beach Resort - joining us on the stand to promote the strengths of the destination. They met with several tour operators who showed interest in including Kerala in their product mix including Intravel, IHPL, Intourcentre, India Tour and Transaero Tour. Ayurveda is gaining popularity with Russian outbound tourists and some 9,766 Russians visited Kerala last year, a 47 per cent increase on 2007. Another new trade show going to be a tough year for our sector, so we cannot afford that Kerala Tourism attended was TUR in Sweden, which to be complacent. It is vital was held from 19-22 March that we continue to build 2009 in the city of Goteborg. relationships with our Swedish interest in ayurveda customers and develop new and beach holidays was also ones to ensure that Kerala is apparent at the Kerala Stand top of mind once confidence at TUR, the largest returns. "We were delighted to have Scandinavian trade fair for travel and tourism. three of Kerala's leading Trade partners from hoteliers - Thomas Holidays &

SP Grand Days Inaugurated P Grand Days, the new venture of SP Group-a business house with interests in diversified businesses, has been formally launched in Thiruvanathapuram by the Minister for Tourism, Kodiyeri Balakrishnan. SP Grand Days, with variety of services provides luxury with responsibility. The property has in all 72 well-appointed rooms with tea/coffee maker, mini bar, safe locker, foot massager, Wi-Fi connectivity, satellite television and STD/ISD direct dial. Some of the other guest service and facilities here include multi-cuisine restaurant, roof-top speciality restaurant, pastry shop, premium bar, lounge bar, discotheque, swimming pool, health club, shopping mall, spa & beauty treatment, doctor on call, concierge service, travel desk and ample car parking.

Kerala, CGH Earth, Kadavu, Thomas Holidays, Somatheeram Ayurvedic Beach Resort and Pioneer Personalised Holidays participated at the fair. Despite the current economic crisis, 20,000 visitors passed through the doors during the trade days and 33,000 visited during the weekend when the fair was open to the public, indicating that Swedish interest in travelling remains high. More than 1,900 companies from 103 countries and regions attended the trade fair. Last year 20,666 Swedish arrivals were registered in Kerala, double that of 2007, making Sweden the fifth largest source market for the State. Kerala Tourism coordinates and participates in a number of international trade shows and events each year to promote Kerala as a premier travel destination. The majority of these trade shows and events are held within key international markets, bringing together the Kerala tourism industry to meet with travel agents and wholesalers from around the world.

Kerala Tourism Roadshow Held in Bengaluru

Wayanad Tourism Organisation Members at the Kerala Tourism Roadshow held at Taj Westend, Bengaluru

ASIAN TRAVELLER MARCH 2009

SOUTHERN SPLENDOUR

TN to Promote Rural Tourism in a Big Way Oberon Mall Inaugurated in Kochi Oberon Mall, the largest lifestyle mall in Kerala has been inaugurated recently by The State Tourism Minister, Kodiyeri Balakrishnan, at Kochi. Fully conceptualised, developed and promoted by the Oberon Group of companies and Flora Group of Dubai, the mall is created as the ultimate shopping and entertainment opportunity for the visitor. The mall, first of its kind in Kerala, aims to redefine the shopping habits of the people in the State and set a trend in shopping.

nder the theme of ‘Enchanting Tamilnadu’, the Tamil Nadu Tourism Development Corporation (TTDC) plans a wide range of unique experiences for tourists who are willing to explore the rural Tamil Nadu. TTDC is promoting rural areas of Tamil Nadu for tourists who have not experienced life in rural areas. The corporation has identified several villages near tourist destinations where tourists can contact the local tourist guides to learn about rural life. The Tamil Nadu Government has trained retired teachers and local youth in hospitality and organising local tours. Tourists

Tourist-friendly Autos in Madurai Tourist-friendly auto rickshaws have been launched in Madurai. Speaking on the occasion, Dr Irai Anbu, Secretary, Tourism Department, stressed on the need for promoting a tourist-friendly culture. Tamil Nadu has plenty of potential for tourism and the importance needed to be highlighted to foreigners. The State has five out of 26 sites recognised by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO).

Historic Tunnel Attracts Visitors Kerala Tourism has now a unique product to offer the visitors to Thiruvananthapuram. A huge tunnel carrying water pipes at Vellayambalam in the capital city, could soon host travellers visiting the city. The Minister for Tourism, Kodiyeri Balakrishnan, while inaugurating the Platinum Jubilee celebrations of the Wellington Water Works drew attention to the 200 m tunnel, carrying water pipes at Vellayambalam, as a potential tourist attraction. This aspect could be made part of Kerala Tourism’s marketing strategy, the minister said.

MARCH 2009 ASIAN TRAVELLER

can contact locals guides and stay in rural houses, taste the local food and enjoy the rural India. Nearly 100 folk arts, which are fading away in Tamil Nadu, have been identified for promotion through rural tourism. Besides, dance and music festivals will be organised in urban areas. Apart from rural tourism, the TTDC is promoting heritage tourism, temple tourism, medical and health tourism, and adventure tourism in a big way. Addressing the mediapersons in Chennai

recently, TTDC Managing Director and Commissioner of Tamil Nadu Tourism M Rajaram said that about

6.26 crore domestic tourists and 20.4 lakh foreign tourists visited Tamil Nadu in 2008, 23.4 per cent higher than in the previous year. About 25 per cent of the 6.26 crore domestic tourists were from Andhra Pradesh, he added.

APTDC to Promote Religious Tourism he Andhra Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (APTDC) plans to focus on promoting Religious Tourism in the state. In addition to its existing pilgrim-cum-tourist spots like Tirupati and Bhadrachalam, APTDC is developing wellknown temple towns like Basara, Ahobilam and Vemulawada into tourism hubs. APTDC has started

construction of multi-purpose complexes including budget

hotels and restaurants which are likely to be completed in a year. “We have already started

construction of multi-purpose complexes and are promoting Religious Tourism at Srisailam, Basara, Ahobilam and Alampur. The state government has accorded permissions and released funds for development of Mantralayam, Bhadrachalam and Vemulawada into tourism spots recently,” said PV Ramana Reddy, Executive Director, APTDC.

Trade Fair Authority for GKSF wing to the grand success of the 2008 edition of the Grand Kerala Shopping Festival (GKSF), the Minister for Tourism, Kodiyeri Balakrishnan has announced the formation of Trade Fair Authority for the annual conduct of GKSF. The 2009 edition of GKSF will be conducted by this authority. According to the minister, GKSF proved that such an exercise can be successfully

conducted with the support of various government departments as well as the business and trade community in the state. In the backdrop of Kerala now placed as a well-known travel destination in the world, the platform is well set for making it into a destination for shopping. And by including smallscale traders, the shopping festival now has attained more mass appeal, the minister said. Recalling

Kerala’s status as a historic trade centre, where merchant vessels from far off countries visited its coast to procure goods, the minister said that current efforts through GKSF and similar ventures is to restore that past glory by developing a market for Kerala products. The minister cited the promotion of coir, cashew and handloom products during the GKSF as efforts in that direction.

SOUTHERN SPLENDOUR

Thrissur Gears Up For Pooram

Dr. V. Venu IAS Secretary, Kerala Tourism

he Kerala Budget promises good times for tourism development in the State, with the tourism package including development of 27 tourism destinations in Malabar, as well as that of the Kannur airport and the Beypore and Azhikkal ports. Focus will be mainly on infrastructure development for the select tourism destinations in Malabar. However, the major highlight of the budget in the face of the current slowdown is the deferment of 50 per cent of luxury tax for all registered tourist resorts and houseboats for one year. Kerala also touched a new high in terms of recognition,

by bagging eleven National Tourism Awards. While 'Utsavam' which showcases Kerala's folk and ritual art forms was selected as the most innovative tourism project, a paragliding festival named VAGA Fest held at Vagamon in Idukki was acclaimed the most innovative adventure activity. The State also bagged the award for the best responsible tourism project, now being implemented in the State at Kumarakom, Thekkady, Wayanad and Kovalam as well as the award for the best film on tourism. It gives me immense pleasure to inform you that in spite of the economic slowdown, the tourist arrivals

hrissur Pooram, the world renowned festival of Kerala will be held on May 03, this year. More tourists from different part of India and other countries are expected this year as the event is fast gaining popularity worldwide. The 36 hour long event which gets better every time in terms of its pomp and vibrance is held at Thekkinkadu Maidanam in the premises of the Vadakkumnatha temple in Thrissur district. The highlights

to the State continue unaffected and good business was registered during the months of December and January.

Chithirai

Festival of Madurai he Chithirai festival, one of the renowned attractions in Tamil Nadu is held at the Madurai temple, 500-km from Chennai. The festivity starts on the full moon day of the Tamil month Chithirai (April-May) and ends on the tenth day. The celebration is filled with pomp and festivity. The Chithirai festival marks the beginning of the financial year. On this occasion, the images of Hindu Gods and Goddesses are taken to Vaigai River in a huge procession. This festival of Madurai is associated with Lord Vishnu of the Hindu mythology. According to the legend, Lord ‘Kallazhagar’ (Vishnu) goes to Madurai from his abode Azhagarmalai 30-km from Madurai to attend the marriage of his sister Goddess Meenakshi to Lord Sundareswarar on real-gold horse

chariot. The ‘Kallazhagar’ entering the river Vaigai is indeed a spectacular sight. As part of the rituals a decorated chariot carrying the two idols of the couple will move out of the temple in procession and passes through the streets. and in the vicinity of the ‘Devasthanam’. Devotees make offerings of coconuts, flowers, camphor and Agarbattis. A trade exhibition and fairs organized here lend festivity to the occasion. The famous festivals held at Madurai, include “Teppam festival”, the annual float festival, wherein the images of Sri Meenakshi and Lord Sundareshwar are mounted on floats and taken to Mariamman Teppakkulam tank.

of the event include a spectacular pageant of 30 caparisoned elephants and Kudamattom, a competition in the swift rhythmic changing of brightly coloured and sequined parasols along with chendamelam and panchavadyam. The dazzling fireworks adds more charm to the event.

HOMAGE

We at Asian Traveller mourn the demise of Thampy George, General Manager, Lake Palace, Alappuzha,Kerala, India. May his soul rest in peace.

www.madurai.com/chithira ASIAN TRAVELLER MARCH 2009

VARIETY

Jayant Gaikwad, IAS, has taken over the charge of Secretary of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, Government of India. He currently holds the position of MD, MTDC.

The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts has announced the appointment of Christopher Newbery as General Manager at The Leela Kempinski, Mumbai.

The Leela Palace Kempinski Bangalore, India has announced the appointment of Andrew Hendrian as its General Manager.

This report is one of the SIC's flagship publications and provides detailed forecasts of travel demand across the Asia Pacific region. Developed in partnership with experts in tourism forecasting and demand modelling, Professors Lindsay W. Turner and Stephen F. Witt, this invaluable resource presents the most accurate projections of the region's travel future, allowing tourism professionals to develop intelligent strategies and appropriate business plans. Covering the 20092011 period, this year's report provides forecasting metrics for a record 40 Asia Pacific econo-

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Asia Spa and Wellness Festival, Bangkok

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March 26-27

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March 31 - Apr 2

APRIL 2009

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