in this issue VOL. 4
5
NO. 8
MAY 2011
First results of the year confirm consolidation of growth
International tourist arrivals grew by close to five per cent during the first months of 2011, consolidating the seven per cent rebound registered in 2010.
6
India, Uzbekistan sign action plan on tourism cooperation
An action plan on Tourism cooperation between India and Uzbekistan has been signed in New Delhi recently in the presence of the First Deputy Prime Minister of Uzbekistan Rustom Azimov and Union Tourism Minister Subodh Kant Sahay.
8
UN agencies commit to make tourism work for development
P 16-17
Tourism is one of the top three sources of export earnings for nearly half of the Least Developed Countries (LDCs) and is a priority sector for their further integration in the global economy.
9
Dubai cruise terminal ME’s leading cruise port
Dubai Cruise Terminal, operated by global marine terminal operator DP World, and managed by Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM), has been voted the Middle East’s Leading Cruise Port for a fourth consecutive year at the World Travel Awards 2011.
6
ATM 2011 entices Indian travel industry
7
Saudi Arabia, UAE to see consistent growth in inbound tourism
P5
P 20 Ten Questions
9
Increase in Dubai-bound tourists boost private jet business
25 Choice Hotels to launch new brands 12
in India
As I Travel
28 A P Anilkumar is Kerala’s new Tourism Minister
29 International symposium on tourism and livelihood ASIAN TRAVELLER
MAY 2011
B C KUMAR
P 10 Cover Photo Courtesy: Dominican Republic Tourism
3
EDITOR’S NOTE
W
hether it is a developed nation or a developing one, tourism contributes significantly to the economic well-being of it. That is why many economists consider tourism industry as one of the segments that could power the global growth in the twenty first century. However it is one of those segments which get affected easily and severely, if and when an adverse situation rears its head. But it is also one of those industries, which is highly resilient in nature. But in the time of economic difficulties the industry has to do a better job of demonstrating the huge returns it would offer over the next 20 years if it is to attract the level of institutional, private and government investment required for the development of infrastructure and new products, observed David Scowsill, President & CEO of the World Travel & Tourism Council recently. "Travel and Tourism needs to continue to be at the front of technological innovation and brand awareness in the on-line and mobile space, and adapt to be prepared for the next generation of global travellers and tourists," he said. The potential of tourism in contributing to lift people out of poverty is increasingly acknowledged and is supported by the growing relevance of the sector for poor countries. It has been rightly observed at the recently held Special Event on Tourism for Sustainable Development and Poverty Reduction in Istanbul, Turkey (organized by the newly created UN Steering Committee on Tourism for Development (SCTD) that tourism is one of the top three sources of export earnings for nearly half of the Least Developed Countries (LDCs) and is a priority sector for their further integration in the global economy. There is an urgent need for careful planning for growth of travel and tourism infrastructure to make sure that it can sustainably meet the demand from the new consumers from emerging economies. That should be the immediate goal.
G. BIJU KRISHNAN Editor & Publisher editor@mediastepsindia.com +91 9447555222
4
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ASIAN TRAVELLER
MAY 2011
OVER VIEW
International TTourism ourism
First results of the year confirm consolidation of growth Worldwide, international tourist arrivals surpassed 124 million in the first two months of 2011, up from 119 million in the same period of 2010, with emerging economies continuing to grow at a faster pace than advanced ones.
I
nternational tourist arrivals grew by close to five per cent during the first months of 2011, consolidating the seven per cent rebound registered in 2010. According to the April Interim Update of the UNWTO World Tourism Barometer, growth was positive in all world (sub) regions during January and February 2011, with the exception of the Middle East and North Africa. Worldwide, international tourist arrivals surpassed 124 million in the first two months of 2011, up from 119 million in the same period of 2010, with emerging economies (+6 per cent) continuing to grow at a faster pace than advanced ones (+4
ASIAN TRAVELLER
per cent). “These results confirm that in spite of several challenges, the recovery of international tourism which was remarkably strong last year is consolidating”, said UNWTO Secretary-General, Taleb Rifai in Istanbul, Turkey, opening a Special Event on ‘Promoting Tourism for Sustainable Development and Poverty Reduction’ in the framework of the 4th United Nations Conference on the Least Developed Countries (LDC-IV). “News is especially positive for emerging economies and developing countries, particularly for Africa where tourism is increasingly recognized as a driver of development, exports and
MAY 2011
jobs”, he added. According to the forecast prepared by UNWTO at the beginning of the year, international tourist arrivals are projected to increase by some 4 per cent to 5 per cent in 2011. The impact of recent developments in North Africa and the Middle East, as well as the tragic earthquake and tsunami that hit Japan in March, are not expected to substantially affect this projected growth. Results for North East Asia, North Africa and the Middle East are below initial forecasts, but destinations in Europe and South America are so far performing better than anticipated. On the whole, and as in previous similar situations, a
temporary redistribution of traffic, together with an increase in intra-regional travel as opposed to interregional, is likely to occur. “Although recent developments in North Africa and the Middle East and the terrible events in Japan will affect the results of their respective regions, overall growth in international tourism should not be significantly impacted”, said Rifai. “Moreover, the fall in demand in Tunisia, Egypt and Japan is expected to have bottomed out and the recovery of these important destinations will surely be consolidated during the year”, he added.
5
INCREDIBLE INDIA
India, Uzbekistan sign action plan on tourism cooperation
A
n action plan on Tourism
cooperation in developing tourism
cooperation between India
infrastructure in both the
and Uzbekistan has been
countries. The institutes of hotel
signed in New Delhi recently in
management and food craft
the presence of the First Deputy
institute under the Ministry of
Prime Minister of Uzbekistan
Tourism can be utilized by
Rustom Azimov and Union
Uzbekistan for human resource
Tourism Minister Subodh Kant
development of their tourism
Sahay. The action plan was signed
requirements, the Minister added.
by Dr. Lalit K. Panwar, CMD,
He also gave the assurance that
Indian Tourism Development
India would explore the possibility of opening a tourism office in
Cooperation and Rustam Mirzaev, Chairman of the Uzbektourism.
The First Deputy Prime Minister of Uzbekistan, Rustom Azimov meets the Union Tourism Minister Subodh Kant Sahay
Uzbekistan. In his reply Rustom Azimov
The action plan envisages exchange of tourists and media
facilities, creation of tourism
operators and travel media to
said that India was a very popular
who would highlight the tourism
infrastructure to promote tourist
promote tourism between the two
country amongst Uzbeks and they
potential of each other’s country,
friendly destinations, education
countries.
look towards India as a growing
setting up of joint ventures in an
and re-training of personnel,
effort to promote the business of
production of goods, souvenirs,
Subodh Kant Sahay said that India
tourism and travel and
equipment and stock for
and Uzbekistan had age old ties
Tashkent, Samarkand and Bukhara
establishing of the representative
promotion of tourism wherever the
and even in the past people used
were some of the well known
offices in both the countries for
viability exists and organization of
to visit each other country.
destinations in Uzbekistan which
easy and convenient accessibility
advertising and other promotional
of information and updates. It also
activity.
includes construction and utilization of each other tourist
Both the sides will also consider exchange visits of Tour
Speaking on the occasion
global power.
The Minister said that there
Tourist locations such as
can be of interest to Indian
was huge potential for developing
tourists, he added. He also sought
cooperation in the tourism sector.
more flight connections between
He stressed the need for
the two countries.
ATM 2011 entices Indian travel industr y
T
he Department of Tourism
tourism companies co-
Department, Dubai Healthcare
and Commerce Marketing
participated at the DTCM exhibit
City and Roads and Transport
(DTCM), participated for
to promote inbound and outbound
Authority partnered with the
the 16th consecutive year at the
products and services from the
DTCM at its huge stand. DTCM
Middle East’s largest travel trade
DTCM stand in the four day
India hosted 30 key travel agents
and tourism exhibition and
exhibition. This year, key Dubai
& tour operators from across India
conference ATM 2011. More than
Government entities, the Dubai
for the Arabian Travel Market.
137 Dubai-based travel and
Naturalisation and Residency
Travel agents and tour operators from across India who had won raffle draws at various events co-
hotels and hotel apartments in the
hosted by DTCM India were
Emirate making India a top source
chosen for the hosted buyers
market. From over 169,000 Indian
program in order to experience
travelers in the first quarter of
firsthand the facilities, attractions
2010 that stayed in Dubai’s hotel
and infrastructure that “Definitely
and hotel apartments, we have
Dubai” offers for the discerning
crossed over 186,000 during the
Indian traveller.
corresponding period of 2011
Commenting on the potential
Carl Vaz, Director - India Representative Office, Dubai Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing and Eyad Ali Abdul Rahman, Executive Director, Media Relations Division & Business Development along with the Indian travel agents and tour operators delegation during their visit to Dubai for the Arabian Travel Market 2011.
6
representing a healthy growth rate
for tourism between Dubai &
of 10 per cent.” The hosted
India, Carl Vaz, Director - DTCM
buyers were quite elated with the
India said, “India today exhibits
outcome of their visit and many
exponential growth for inward
stated that the visit was very
visitor traffic into Dubai. A large
fruitful in developing high end and
segment of Indian visitors utilize
niche packages for their clients.
ASIAN TRAVELLER
MAY 2011
MIDDLE EAST
Strength of regional travel industr y underscored
A
rabian Travel Market
have increased the amount of stall
(ATM) 2011 the region’s
space this year. ATM 2011 covered
leading travel industry
the luxury travel sector, the cruise
showcase, highlighted the
industry, aviation, Middle East
underlying strength of the
tourism trends, online marketing,
regional tourism industry. There
technology, Medical Tourism, new
was an increase of eight per cent
hotel concepts etc. Apart from
in the number of registered
seminars, debates and
visitors over last year’s edition.
workshops, the event will include
Also a fourth business day has
ATM’s special additions like
been added to the event. For the
Consumer Day, Travel Agents Day
first time, the World Travel Market
and Careers Day, giving each
Vision’s conference discussing
exhibitor a chance to present their
green initiatives within the
destinations directly to
industry was part of ATM.
consumers, travel agents, and
The increase in participation
prospective employees. India’s
and size was a result of interest
focus this year was to promote
by countries like Syria, Saudi
adventure travel, culture and
luxury travel and medical tourism.
including tourism boards
Arabia, Jordan and Qatar who
heritage tourism, incentive travel,
Nearly 70 Indian travel companies
participated at the fair this year.
Saudi Arabia, UAE to see consistent growth in inbound tourism
S
audi Arabia and the UAE are likely to see consistent growth in inbound tourism between 2010 and 2015, according to research unveiled at WTM Vision Conference, Dubai. Saudi Arabia is also benefiting from robust religious tourism demand, said the report. “The Middle Eastern tourism industry should take heart from these generally positive findings,” said World Travel Market (WTM) Exhibition Director Simon Press. “Euromonitor International’s research shows the region’s travel and tourism industry is in a strong position and will grow in global importance,” said Simon Press. The Travel and Tourism Global Overview report tips Saudi Arabia to have one of the largest compound annual growth rates in the world of 12.3 per cent for arrivals over 2010-2015 which will result in an additional 9.3 million ASIAN TRAVELLER
visitors to the country. This makes Saudi Arabia the fifth largest country in terms of absolute arrivals growth over the forecast review. This growth is driven mainly by the religious tourism to Mecca and Madina, supported by infrastructure developments in air transportation and travel accommodation. Saudi Arabia also continues to be one of the most economically stable markets in the Middle East thanks to its status as the world’s leading oil exporter. It is Simon Press investing Exhibition Director, WTM heavily in economic development, including the creation of six mega cities that will help generate employment, attract investment and drive business tourism. The UAE will see an annual increase in arrivals
MAY 2011
during the forecast review period of 6.9 percent, resulting in 3.6 million new arrivals, being the 14th largest country in terms of absolute arrivals growth over 2010-2015. Significant infrastructure developments are taking place in the UAE, which are expected to contribute significantly to the growing number of arrivals to the country. Dubai is also set to seal its
position as a global air transportation hub upon the opening of the world’s largest airport, Al-Maktoum Airport, with a capacity of 160 million passengers a year. Saudi Arabia and the UAE have been capable of dealing with challenging external events as demonstrated by the resilience of their respective travel and tourism industries, partly thanks to intra-regional travel, says the report.
7
WORLD VIEW
UN agencies commit to make tourism work for development
T
ourism is one of the top three sources of export earnings for nearly half of the Least Developed Countries (LDCs) and is a priority sector for their further integration in the global economy. The contribution of tourism in advancing development was addressed during a Special Event on Tourism for Sustainable Development and Poverty Reduction organized by the recently created UN Steering Committee on Tourism for Development (SCTD), during a major UN conference on LDCs held in Istanbul, Turkey earlier this month. The potential of tourism in contributing to lift people out of poverty is increasingly acknowledged and is supported by the growing relevance of the sector for
poor countries. International tourist arrivals in the 48 LDCs grew from 6 million in 2000 to over 17 million in 2010. In the same period, international tourism receipts climbed from USD 3 billion to over USD 10 billion. “Most LDCs are rich in resources. All have young and Ban Ki-Moon vibrant Secretary-General UN populations. These men and women need decent jobs, education, training, so they can make the most of their country’s assets - minerals and other commodities, farmland, rich stores of biodiversity and tourism potential”, said UN SecretaryGeneral, Ban Ki-Moon, opening the Fourth UN
Conference on Least Developed Countries. “UNWTO is extremely pleased to have tourism playing an active role for the first time in such an important event as LDC-IV”, said UNWTO SecretaryGeneral, Taleb Rifai. “In spite of tourism’s Taleb Rifai proven Secretary-General, UNWTO contribution to foreign exchange generation, job creation and socio-economic development, low priority has so far been assigned to the sector in the development agenda. This is particularly surprising given that tourism has been clearly identified by developing countries themselves as a priority for
their economic advancement”, he added. In his remarks, the Secretary-General of the UN Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), Supachai Panitchpakdi, emphasized the critical importance of quality in the development of a Supachai Panitchpakdi competitive Secretary-General (UNCTAD) tourism sector in LDCs, including the quality of investment, infrastructure and human resources. “The LDCs should aim at the quality segment in the global value chain and, as the Maldives successfully demonstrated, focus on excellence in the tourism product”, said Panitchpakdi.
WTTC leader calls for new tourism coalition
T
he 11th Global Travel &
Where we can, WTTC will take
to come to the Summit to cement
Tourism Summit in Las
leadership on particular matters.
his support for partnership and
Vegas concluded with
And
David Scowsill, President & CEO
equally,
of the World Travel & Tourism
where
Council calling on the travel and
required,
tourism industry to come together
WTTC will
with one voice so that it can be
provide support or follow the lead
better placed to engage in
of others within the coalition. It is
dialogue with governments and
not important who leads or who
ensure that the industry can
follows as long as we get the job
power global growth in the twenty
done,” he said.
first century. Scowsill pledged that
He called for governments
he would unite the voices of
around the world to open their
WTTC members with those of
doors to travel & tourism,
industry and trade bodies as well
following the examples of Mexico
as intergovernmental agencies
and South Africa.
and organisations in a new coalition.
Over 900 delegates attended the Summit, which was hosted by
David Scowsill, President & CEO, WTTC talks with Atsutoshi Nishida, Chairman, Toshiba and Mutsutake Otsuka, Chairman, East Japan Railway Company
“Where there are open doors, we will offer our advice and our
co-operation. He provides us with
the Las Vegas Convention and
best efforts to work together.
an example of how an
Visitors Authority and took place
will bring us together where there
Where we find doors closed, we
administration can be actively
at the Aria Resort and Casino.
is shared ground and issues, and
will knock loudly and in unison
open for business with the Travel
The 12th Global Travel & Tourism
allow us to target our messages in
until they are eventually opened.
& Tourism sector,” Scowsill
Summit will take place in Tokyo,
a clear and unambiguous way.
President Calderon took the time
added.
Japan on April 17 to 19 2012.
“My hope is that this coalition
8
ASIAN TRAVELLER
MAY 2011
AVIATION
Increase in Dubai-bound tourists boost private jet business
P
rivate aviation business is
business due to disturbances in
than five million
witnessing higher growth
other parts of the region.”
of these 25
in UAE in general and
million tourists,
“The strong performance of
Dubai in particular, driven by a
the private jet business in Dubai
which will
combination of factors, says
has outpaced the growth in other
automatically
Private Jet Charter, one of the
parts of the Middle East due to the
world’s largest independent
emirate’s consolidation as key
private jet charter brokers and
holiday destination,” he added.
consultants. The favourable
The unrest and uncertainty in
factors include accelerated
some countries in the Middle East
economic recovery from recession
region has prompted tourists to
boost the Hugh Courtenay Chief Executive Private Jet Charter
private jet business,
according to Courtenay.
man Air has been named as the top on-time performer at London Heathrow Airport. Figures released by BAA show that Oman Air achieved the No.
net worth individuals and affluent families, who look at Dubai as a
some parts of
preferred destination.” “Affluent holiday makers look
generating a
for convenience and time savings
higher demand
in jet services and this is where
for charter flights
Private Jet Charter fits in. Based
to and from the
on bookings from our clients, who include royal families, wealthy
UAE. Private Jet
O
“Most of our clients are high
and unrest in the region,
Oman Air named top performer
Charter founder and Chief
cancel their travel bookings to
business people and CEOs, the
Executive Hugh Courtenay said
these destinations which attracted
UAE has emerged as a destination
“Dubai is well positioned to see a
more than 25 million visitors last
of choice for spending their
rise in visitors and private jet
year. Dubai could capture more
summer vacation,” he said.
1 rank with 100 per cent punctuality for departures in February 2011, and the national carrier of the Sultanate of Oman has been consistently listed amongst top five airlines for on-time performance (OTP) at Heathrow.
Dubai cruise terminal ME’s leading cruise port
D
ubai Cruise Terminal, operated by global marine terminal operator DP World, and managed by Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM), has been voted the Middle East’s Leading Cruise Port for a fourth consecutive year at the World Travel Awards 2011. The prestigious award was Carl Vaz, received on Director – India, DTCM behalf of DP World by Tariq Bin Khalifa, Director, Account Management, DP World, UAE Region, at a red-carpet ceremony held at the Armani Hotel in Burj Khalifa. The recognition reaffirms Dubai Cruise Terminal’s undisputed position as the cruise hub of the region. It
ASIAN TRAVELLER
first won the award in 2008 and has since been consistently voted as the leader in its class in the Middle East by World Travel Awards. This year, 213,000 industry professionals participated in the voting process, according to the awards organizers. Carl Vaz, Director – India commented, “The Dubai cruise terminal has yet again proved to be the finest in its category. Being the only cruise terminal in the world operated by a government department of tourism, it has managed to provide an enhanced experience to visitors. We at DTCM India have started aggressively targeting this sector and have begun initiatives to conduct joint promotional activities with key travel trade members who promote Dubai for cruises.” Spread over 3,300 sq m at
MAY 2011
Port Rashid and with a capacity to handle two oceangoing cruise vessels simultaneously, Dubai Cruise Termi-
nal has state-of-the-art facilities that have made it one of the most tourist-friendly ports of call.
9
Q&A
It was his passion for travelling that led B C Kumar to look for a career in the hospitality industry and twenty-five years later while looking back he feels it was a right move. B C Kumar shares his experience.
B C Kumar You have completed General Manager Vivanta by Taj, Fisherman’s Cove, Chennai, India
10
twenty-five years in the hospitality industry. Could you tell us about your early days? How did you come to join the hospitality sector? Yes, I have finished 25 years in the hospitality industry. After completion of my graduation in English Literature and with my passion for travelling, the hospitality industry looked very suitable to my nature and aspiration to become a fine hotelier. Have you had any work experience outside India?
How do you like working in India? Though I had the privilege to see some best part of Asia, I have no experience in working abroad and I like to work in India, were service is defined as divine. What plans do you have for the current property? Currently I am working as General Manager for Vivanta by Taj, Fisherman’s Cove, in Chennai. We have launched a new block with 64 rooms and state-of-the-art conferencing facilities. We are in the process of creating a master plan to renovate the main block, creating a spa village, new arrival pavilion. We also plan to increase the current inventory of 152 rooms to 200 plus keys. How important is a hotel in developing a destination? What should a Hotel be doing in this regard? The hotel must have a good location, good accessibility (with an airport close by and good roads), sight seeing options near by, luxury spa, world class dining options, conferencing facilities and above all the product and service standards to match up the current guest requirements. The hotel must feature in all web based booking systems, so as to make the booking easily by the guest. What is the proudest moment in your professional life? Could you share some of the unforgettable moments in your professional life?
A kid, who was a guest, fell off a horse while riding and had a major fracture in the hand. He came running to me holding his hand and I rushed him to the best doctor in the city and got it fixed. The parents were very happy with the act and appreciated the good and quick efforts taken by me. I have not only earned the goodwill but a life time guest patronage. Where would you like to see yourself, say, 10 years from now? I would like to be at the service and share my experiences for the future generations. What are your views on the future of the hospitality industry, in general? The industry has already exploded. The industry in the future will portray new life style, new generation food, art, luxury and class. Tell us about your family? My wife Kasthuri, till recently was a teacher. After leaving the job she is a home maker now. She has a lot of friends in the city and active in the social circle. My son, Tarun is doing his plus-two and is interested in cooking and animation. What are your hobbies and other interests? Socialising, long drives, sports at leisure and always pursuing luxuries in life. Which is your favourite destination? Maldives, the land of sea at knee level and a beautiful destination to unwind.
ASIAN TRAVELLER
MAY 2011
TAMIL NADU TRAVELLER
Foremost shrine of Tamil Nadu Dr. S. Bakthavatchalam
Temple is located here.
one of the five Shaivite mukti
begins with the visit of Hiranya
Dedicated to Lord Nataraja, this
sthalams, the other four being
Chakravarthi of Kashmir around
hidambaram, the seat of
ancient temple of the Cholas is
Kalahasti, Kanchipuram,
500 A.D. The king is believed to
the cosmic dancer
not only unique but is devoted
Tiruvannamalai and
have been cured of his leprosy
Nataraja is one of the
solely to the art of Bharatanatyam.
Tiruvanaikaval.
with a single dip in the temple
foremost Saivite shrines. It is one
The idol of Nataraja is installed in
The ten day festival at
pushkarini, Sivaganga thirtham.
of the Panchabhoota Stalams
the Kanaka Sabha, the roof of
Chidambaram commencing with
The four eminent saiva acharyas;
signifying the 5 elements; wind,
which is covered with gold Plates.
the hoisting of the temple flag on
Appar, Sambandar, Sundarar and
water, fire, earth and space. The
The north Gopuram was built by
the first day, followed by colorful
Manikkavachakar are bonded with
presiding deity of the temple is
Krishnadeva Raya and the east
processions of the five deities
this holy temple and produced
represented by air, one of the five
Gopuram was built by Sundra
(Pancha Murthys) on the first eight
master pieces of respective paths-
elements of the universe and is
Pandyan.
days on various mounts. It is only
Charya, Kriya, Yoga and Gnana.
known as “Akasa Lingam”.
The temple town Chidambaram,
on the ninth day that Nataraja
This kshetra is said to have given
Chidambaram is also known as
58 km south of Pondicherry is well
leaves his sanctum, and is taken
‘moksha’ (liberation) to infinite
Thillai. The place was originally a
connected by roads to greet the
in a procession through the car
devotees - notable amongst them
forest of the thillai, botanically
visitors. It is one of the few
streets in the grand temple car.
are Nandanar, Tirunilakan-
known as excecaria agallecha
temples, where Shiva and Vishnu
This temple with a veil of mystery
danayanar, Vyagrapada, Patanjali.
shrubs as the famous Nataraja
are enshrined under one roof and
for centuries, but in records it
Spread over an area of 40 acres,
C
the temple is distinguished by five sabhas or courts with a gopuram on each side. The eastern gopuram is 40.8 m. high and carved on it are the 108 dance poses of Bharatanatyam. The western tower has also similar carvings while the northern tower that soars to a height of 42.4 m. is the tallest. There are two shrines, one dedicated to Subramanya and the other to Ganesha. The unique feature of Chidambaram is that person of any race or religion can visit the shrine and pray.
ASIAN TRAVELLER
MAY 2011
11
COLUMN
L
V DURAIKKANNAN
12
by private people. The first one such airport is coming up at the port town of Karaikal in South India. Last year Sir Richard Branson Datuk Seri Tony Fernandes during my the grooming norms of a visit to Singapore, I was seeing the full-page ad of Air stewardess) in public (this public display of the act is not Asia in prominent dailies the norm but his whim) for pitching themselves as the charity before departing from right airline to fly with as against their main competitor Stansted Airport. The shaver will be gifted off to the highest Tiger Airways. The ad lines bidder (who should be screamed: ‘If Tigers Were Meant to Fly, They Would Be holding a confirmed ticket for Born with Wings!’ Apart from the flight from London to the malignant tone, there was Kuala Lumpur) and the starting price is GBP 400,000. hilarity too in that ad. This time around Air Asia The supposed charity flight is now deferred to July 4, 2011 has come up with something Changi Airport, (this time the victim is not the instead of the original Singapore schedule of May 1, 2011. Tiger but the Virgin) more While all this fun and hilarious and equally more roistering is fine with these bizarre. Sir Richard Branson, who is Virgin Group boss and new-age and new found Virgin Racing owner, had lost airlines, it would be worth the a friendly wager with Air Asia while for them to do business from the customers’ boss and Team Lotus perspective and in the principal Datuk Seri Tony customers’ interest. Low cost Fernandes. does not or need not per force The bet was made at the beginning of the Formula One mean low quality service or less care for the traveling season in March last year. public. Team Lotus, which was then Last week I was traveling aerotropolis (coinage by author known as Lotus Racing, was from Chennai to Singapore by 10th in the overall team John D. Kasarda) is a new Tiger Airways and the fare urban form placing airports in rankings, beating Virgin was really very economical the center with cities growing Racing which came in last at (why call it ‘cheap’ when 12th. Branson, who lost the around them, connecting there is a euphemism called Formula One bet, is to serve workers, suppliers, as an Air Asia ‘stewardess’ on ‘economical’?!). In fact my executives, and goods to the return fare on Tiger was much the long-haul flight, dressed global marketplace. India’s in the budget airline’s striking lower than the one way fare first aerotropolis is coming up on the other full service red uniform. at Durgapur in East India. carriers and that was He will also have his legs And merchant airports are the including the add-on fee for shaven (in accordance with ones developed and serviced ot many things are happening in the sky nowadays. The advent of the so called low cost carrier (LCC) has kicked up havoc for good in that people who would have never thought of going by air started using it. The affordability is the key. Many would know that there is no such thing as a low-cost airline but mostly only a low-price airline. The overhead for any carrier is almost the same. Especially in India this is very true as we do not have the concept of multiple airports like in USA or other countries .Now only we are talking about the creation of aerotropoles and merchant airports. An
ASIAN TRAVELLER
MAY 2011
COLUMN 20 kilos of baggage too. The aircraft and the on-time service were by and large nothing much to complain about and so it was very much worth it. Real value for money! What irked me most was what they did on my return from Singapore to Chennai. I had two pieces of check-in luggage and one cabin baggage. The check-in luggage was weighing only 18.5 kilos against my paid-for 20 kilos. But that was fine by me. After checking through the security, inside that booth, there was another person (I
could not make out whether he was from Tiger or from Changi Airport Budget Terminal) with a floor weighing machine checking out the weight of the hand baggage. Mine was found to be 8.5 kilos against the prescribed allowance of 7 kilos. He asked me to go back and pay for the excess baggage of 1.5 kilos (If 7 kilos is a safety norm and limit then they should not allow anything more even at a cost). When I explained to him that I still had 1.5 kilos in abeyance by way of my checked-in Virgin Racing
Team Lotus
ASIAN TRAVELLER
MAY 2011
John D. Kasarda
luggage he would not budge in. He said I could shift the extra 1.5 kilos into my checked-in luggage if that were the case and he redirected me to the counter. But the counter staff curtly told that the baggage had already moved out to the tarmac and that it could not be recalled. Then I had to but jettison some 1.5 kilos of some used clothes (easily three sets of them can be bought anew for the excess baggage cost) from my checked-in luggage. All this
hassle could have been saved if only they had weighed my cabin baggage too at the time of my check in as they did it at Chennai (at Chennai they make you weigh both your check in as well as cabin luggage and allow the composite weight of 27 kilos). If they could stop it at the security check point, why not they stop it at the check-in counter itself and make things easier for the traveling public whether these airlines are born with the wings or not! dkay2@rediffmail.com
13
GUJARAT TRAVELLER
Vansda National Park
Bird-watcher’s paradise
N
A short stop so as to not
the bamboo and teak, 443 species
and kraits. Along with an
Ghats of Sahyadri range,
scare away the beautiful butterfly
of these are flowering plants, such
entertaining variety of insects,
Vansda National Park is
that has landed in front of you,
as adad, dudhkod, khakhro, timru,
centipedes, millipedes, and snails,
known for its unique flavour of
and as it flies away, it distract you
haldu, chopadi, bondaro, shimlo,
there are 121 species of spiders,
flora and fauna population. It lies
to crouch, like a child, to watch a
and ambla.
including the largest in Gujarat,
about 65 km east of the town of
colorful centipede scurry its fuzzy
Chikhali on the National Highway
way along. The ferns and
otter, sambar, and sloth bear but
species of spiders were recently
east end of the Navsari district in
mushrooms and the Bharadi
is still home to a diversity of
reported. There are about 11
South Gujarat with the forests of
grasslands are tucked away east
mammals, including the leopard,
types of frogs and toads to keep
Valsad district to the south, and
of the center of the park and
hyena, chital, chausinga, jungle
the snakes well-fed.
the forests in the Dangs to the
above all the Ambika River is
cat, common palm civet, small
east provide better access than
enchanted by the varieties of
Indian civet, mongoose, macaque,
watchers, more than 115 species
from the Navsari side, so it is
orchids, delicate and colorful.
rhesus macaque, barking deer,
of birds, including the racket-
estled in the Western
Vansda lost the tiger, wild dog,
the giant wood spider, and 8 new
8, and about 80 km north-east of the city of Valsad, an important trading place for the surrounding area where the majority of the population is represented by adivasis. There are various adivasi settlements in Vansda from the Dangi tribes, which are made up of the Bhils, Kunbi, Warli, Chowdry, Gamit, Bhoi, and Kukna. In the Dangs especially, the tribal belt of Gujarat has been influenced strongly by Christian and Hindu missionaries over the last few decades. Established in 1979, the 24 square km national park lies at the
It’s a main attention for bird-
wild boar, hanuman langur, Indian
tailed drongo, paradise flycatcher,
Forest Division. It belonged to the
visit is the post-monsoon season
porcupine, flying squirrel, Indian
leaf birds, thrushes, peafowls, as
King of Vansda until he gave it to
to winter, when the forest is at its
flying fox, pangolin, rusty-spotted
well as the globally threatened
the state. The area that surrounds
most lush and the streams are full
cats, as well as the endangered
forest spotted owlet, and birds
the park marks the northern and
and one could see more birds,
great Indian squirrel. Abundance
found only in the Western Ghats,
western limits of the Western
animals and plant-life.
of pythons and 30 other species
like the indian great black
of snakes, including venomous
woodpecker, malabar trogon,
ones like Russel’s viper, cobras,
shama and emerald dove.
The best time for the tourist to
managed by the South Dangs
Vansda Park cradles 450
Ghats, also known as the Sahyadris.
species of plants, and including
Himachal targets 1.50cr tourists in 2011
H
imachal Pradesh, which has received
of 1.50 crore tourists this year. With mercury
1.32 crore tourists (which is two-times
rising in the plains and schools and colleges
the state population) last year, has set a target
ASIAN TRAVELLER
MAY 2011
closing for vacations, the number of tourists is
Private players to develop tourism in Chhattisgarh
C
hhattisgarh Tourism will now have private players taking a lead role in developing
bound to surge in the coming months, he said.
tourism in the state. As per the plan, the
Kullu, Kangra and Shimla remained favourite
ministry will identify 26 places which can be
with 50 per cent of total tourists visiting these
developed as a tourist destination and make a
areas in this year. “An estimated 50.30 lakh
blue print for developing it into a tourist
domestic visitors and 11.93 lakh foreigners
attraction. The ministry will invite tenders from
visited the state between January and April
private players who will manage these sites
this year,” said state tourism Director Arun
for 5 year. If the company does a good job
Sharma.
then their contract will be renewed.
15
DESTINATION
Banf f National P ark Park
The No.1 destination in Canada Banff National Park is Canada’s oldest national park, established in 1885 in the Rocky Mountains. The park, located in the province of Alberta, encompasses 6,641 square kilometres of mountainous terrain, with numerous glaciers and ice fields, dense coniferous forest, and alpine landscapes.
T
ravellers who have been to Canada swear by its unspoilt natural beauty and its serene landscapes. Canada is endowed with nature’s splendor in every corner, making it the Numero Uno destination for a holiday. Pathless woods, pristine beaches, lonely shores, craggy fjords, deep sea with music in its roar, clean water lakes and rugged terrains amidst lofty mountains; these are some of the features of your favorite four season destination. But the best of Canada is its very heart, the Banff National Park. As the votes are in for the No.1 destination in Canada, chosen by the unbiased opinions of millions of traveller ratings, Banff is a must on everybody’s Canada itinerary. Trailblazers, photographers and outdoor enthusiasts have been drawn to the natural beauty of Banff National Park, and its heavenly landscape. In its 125 years, Banff National Park’s beauty has been captured on film by millions of visitors. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site,
16
Banff offers rocky beauty, unspoiled landscapes, and awe-inspiring mountain ranges. Visitors get to experience an unrivaled alpine escape in “The World’s Finest National Park”. Tourist pursuit hiking, mountain biking, climbing, camping, fishing, boating and windshield sightseeing. Banff National Park also has several top-flight ski resorts for winter sports such as cross-country skiing, snowboarding and ice skating. Whatever your style, Banff National Park has something for you. During your getaway, you are sure to love the comfortable accommodations, restaurants, stores, fun activities, colourful festivals, and unique sights in and around the park. Outdoor lovers can plan a thrilling camping or canoeing excursion. Culture aficionados will appreciate the region’s colourful artists, musicians, and heritage. Celebrate the best of the Canadian Rockies at Banff National Park. Drink in nature’s wonder at Lake Louise – one of the Canadian Rockies’
ASIAN TRAVELLER
MAY 2011
DESTINATION
most beloved spots, with its eggshell blue waters sparkling beneath the towering Victoria Glacier. The lake shore resplendent Fairmont Lake Louise is one of the most photographed hotel in the world. Lake Moraine with its lovely bluegreen waters with mountain backdrops, Emerald Lake that mirrors its name, Lake Minnewanka, boasting of an abundance of surrounding wild life are some of the sights to die for. The Banff National park boasts of more than 55 mammal species like Grizzly, Black Bears, Mule Deer, Wolves and River Otter in the preserved area within the National park. Set in the heart of Banff National Park and snugly embraced by Alberta’s Rocky Mountains, the little town of Banff boasts a big, worldwide reputation. Its charming streets are abuzz year round with an influx of millions of visitors annually. This famous mountain resort town provides world-class shopping, dining and accommodation also. The Banff Springs Resort, a selection of little inns tucked away among the tree canopies, the astounding surrounding natural beauty is exceeded only by the warm hospitality of its people. So the next time you plan a visit to Canada, do make a trip to Banff National Park if you don’t want to miss the Number One destination in Canada!
Though a park pass is required for stopping in the park and permit checks are common during the summer months, if you are travelling straight through the park without stopping no permit is required. Approximately 5 million people pass through Banff annually on the Trans-Canada Highway without stopping. Attractions in Banff include Upper Hot Springs, and a 27-hole golf course at Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel, and three ski resorts including Sunshine Village, Lake Louise Mountain Resort, and Mount Norquay ski resort. The Banff Lodging Co is a hospitality company in the park. Day hikes, such as the Cory Pass Loop, are popular with visitors.
Article credit: Canadian Tourism Commission Photo credits: Travel Alberta; Jeff Patterso; Banff Lake Louise Tourism / Paul Zizka; Canadian Tourism Commission
ASIAN TRAVELLER
MAY 2011
17
KARNATAKA TRAVELLER
Somnathpur Temple
The eternal magnificence
S
omnathpur, a small village
original form. The shrine stands in
Archaeologists and historians
on the banks of the river
the middle of a walled compound,
claim that the temple constructed
Cauvery is known for its
around which runs an open
in 1268 AD, was a symbol of the
splendid and grand Keshava
verandah with 64 cells. The
efflorescence of the Hoysalas.
temple built on an elevated star-
temple itself, stellar in shape, has
Somnathpur Temple proves that
shaped platform.
three profusely carved pinnacles
Karnataka has been rightly
with a common Navranga and
nicknamed the cradle of stone
stands on a raised platform.
architecture.
Amidst the rustic charm of this village, stands tall the magnificent shrine of the Hoysala rulers, the
The temple was not built by
The king not only bestowed
exquisitely carved Kesava temple.
the king but by his celebrated
Somnath with his largesse, but
Enclosed in a walled courtyard,
army commander, Somnath. Years
also sanctioned an annual grant
the star shaped Kesava temple
back he had founded a village on
of 3,000 gold coins for the
has a gate and a porch with triple
the left bank of the Kaveri River,
temple’s upkeep and
towers and is a perfect example
which he named Somnathpur,
maintenance. All these facts are
reformer Ramanuja. Later Hoysala
of the Hoysala architecture built
after himself. Somnath petitioned
duly mentioned on the slab and
rulers even became Saivites. The
740 years ago.
the king to grant him the
appear as though it had
Hoysala Dynasty finally came to
permission and resources for his
happened yesterday!
an end around 1346 A.D. when the
The outer walls with intricately carved rows of caparisoned
project of setting up a grand
Interestingly, the earliest
elephants, charging horsemen,
temple to glorify the Hoysala
Hoysala monarchs were Jains. It
Today, Somnathpur is like any
mythological birds and beasts will
craftsmanship.
was the great Vishnuvardhana
other lackadaisical Indian village
Vijayanagar Empire rose to power.
(1108-42) who embraced
surrounded by farms of millet and
beautifully sculpted images of
temple, the Belur and Halebid
Vaishnavism under the influence
sugarcane. Though not as popular
gods, goddesses, and scenes
temples are equally famous.
of the celebrated Vaishnava
as Belur and Halebid, the Hoysala
leave you spellbound. The
Apart from the ancient Kesava
from the epics and the remarkably
temple at Somnathpur, is truly
ornate ceilings in the pillared hall
unique in design, perfect in
will take your breath away.
symmetry and the stone carvings
The three sanctums once
are remarkable marvels in stone.
enshrined within the premises of
The temple is an example of
the star shaped temple were
the grand and glorious
dedicated to the revered
monuments built by the Hoysala
Prasanna Chennakeshava and the
rulers. The names of the sculptors
two different incarnations of Lord
are inscribed on their works,
Vishnu - Lord Janardhana and
which was a common practice
Venugopala. Today the idol of
during the reign of the Hoysalas.
Lord Kesava is missing, but the
This temple is as beautiful as the
other two idols of Lord
world-renowned Belur and
Janardhana and Venugopala still
Halebid temples and is worth
adorn the sanctums in their
visiting while in Mysore.
Andhra to promote Budhist tourism
A
ndhra Pradesh plans to promote and develop Budhism related sites and circuits to attract visitors to the state. It has identified Budhist tourism as an important segment to attract both domestic and foreign tourists from East and Southeast Asian regions, mainly from Japan, China, Thailand, Sri Lanka and Singapore. State tourism department has already set aside an amount of Rs 26 crore for the purpose. The state government
18
has also taken steps to notify areas with strong Budhist heritage as tourism areas. The state would develop three Budhist circuits at Visakhapatnam, Amaravathi and Nagarjunakonda, with an estimated investment of Rs 12 crore. Budhist sites, monuments and Budhist clusters will also be developed in Hyderabad, Vijayawada and Visakhapatnam. Buddhavanam, a unique Budhist theme park, would be set up at Nagarjunakonda. ASIAN TRAVELLER
MAY 2011
DOWN UNDER
Whitsunday Islands
Experience the tropical paradise
Article Courtesy: Tourism Australia. Photo Š Tourism Australia
A group of continental islands of different sizes off the central Australian coast, The Whitsunday Islands are a popular tourist destination. All 74 of the islands are surrounded by the Great Barrier Reef and only eight are inhabited.
20
ASIAN TRAVELLER
MAY 2011
DOWN UNDER Kris Madden
T
here’s nothing like dazzling white pow der-soft sand between your toes, crystal clear sapphire-coloured waters, kaleidoscopic displays of coral and tropical fish, and uninhabited islands to explore. From the romantic Heart Reef to whiter than white Whitehaven Beach, there’s nowhere quite like the Whitsunday Islands. Aussies get a dreamy, faraway look in their eyes at the mention of it. Dreamily basking in the sun midway along the Queensland coast – this group of 74 islands is bordered by the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area and cradled by the calm and sheltered waters of the Coral Sea. With only eight inhabited, it’s the perfect place to find your own Robinson Crusoe moment. Formed millions of years ago, when rising sea levels transformed a coastal mountain range into islands surrounded by an aquamarine sea, the name was bestowed on Australia’s largest group of offshore islands by Captain Cook who sailed through the passage on Whitsunday in 1770. One of the best ways to soak up the sun-drenched beauty of this island paradise is to make like Cook and sail away onboard a chartered catamaran or yacht. You can skipper one yourself and head off into the sunset; or for outand-out film star treatment,
ASIAN TRAVELLER
hire one with a crew and visit a different island or reef each day. The Whitsunday’s jewel in the crown is famous Whitehaven Beach, seven kilometres of spectacular white silica sand and one of the most photographed beaches in Australia. If you want to stay in one
MAY 2011
reasons for visiting, if you prefer to keep your feet on terra firma, there are plenty of forest walking trails where you can spot the blue flash of a Ulysses butterfly, smell lemon myrtle flowers in summer and hear the doves coo. The Whitsunday Great Walk through majestic tropical rainforest or Ngaro Sea Trail offers a different perspective on this watery playground. Once you’ve emerged barefoot from a helicopter or seaplane onto a dazzling white beach with a picnic basket full of gourmet treats and champagne, or gazed down on Heart Reef from the air, you’ll have little left to tick off your romantic wish list. That’s probably why the Whitsundays is the site of more proposals and honeymoons per square metre than anywhere else in Australia. Accommodation ranges from budget properties through to family-style resorts and high-end luxury retreats. Then there’s the partying: colourful, cosmopolitan Airlie Beach is the gateway to the islands and chocked with restaurants, buzzing beer spot, you can spend the night gardens, clubs and heady on a moored pontoon at good times. Fantasea Reefworld and The closest point off the watch the reef come alive. coast to one of the seven There’s an underwater obser- natural wonders of the world, vatory, glass bottom boat and talcum powder white sands coral semi-submersible for and clear blue waters full of those who choose to keep dry. marine life – that’s why the While snorkelling, diving Whitsundays are an Austraand swimming are the main lian icon.
21
MANAGEMENT
Sharpen the saw Kamal Manaktola
H
business and require
lifetime’. This saying has
development to optimise their
explained clearly how important it
otel Managers in India
performance and hence that of the
is to train an employee to conquer
are spending three-fourth
operation. The industry, however,
his/her work than just give him/
of their life working inside
is not noted for its commitment to
her a job of income. By observing
training and development.
today’s business climate and the
the property. The other day I was talking with a Hotel Manager about some dilemma which could
Dag Hammarskjold, past
exponential growth in technology
Secretary-General of the United
with its effect on the economy and
Nations, said, “He
society, the need for training is
who wants to keep
more pronounced than ever. The concept of continuous
his garden tidy
professional development is
doesn’t reserve a
plot for weeds.” The accepted as being of benefit to
Stephen Covey
law of the harvest
both the employing organisation
governs, we will
and the individual. Part of the
always reap what
problem for companies appears to
we sow —no more,
be an inability to quantify the
no less.
benefits of training and development in monetary terms
The world is be reduced to a question: should
changing rapidly in everyday life.
and hence they may treat this as
he cut yet another tree or it’s time
In order to be able to catch up the
being a ‘perk’ rather than a
to stop and sharpen the saw?
paces, making the best use of the
business investment. However, an
personnel’s abilities became of
alternative approach is to treat
critical task, staff turnover,
tremendous significance in the
development as part of the
declining RevPAR, deadline or just
businesses. Manager should be
company responsibility to enable
routine fire-fighting. There’s
able to deal with the effects of the
people to see the link between
always someone: guest,
changing world of work, which
learning, doing their jobs better
department manager or head
means that people who work in
and meeting business objectives.
office personnel. There’s always
the hospitality
Any approach to
another tree. There’s always a
industry have to be
development can be
reason not to sharpen the saw.
aware of the
directly linked to
There’s always something:
The hospitality industry is a diverse and growing industry that needs managers who are able to cope with the rapid rate of change. Each staff member’s role is crucial to the efficient and profitable operation of the business and require development to optimise their performance and hence that of the operation. The industry, however, is not noted for its commitment to training and development.
Habit 7 in Steve Covey’s ‘The 7
implications of
clearly definable
Habits of Highly Effective
globalization,
business goals and
People’ is called “Sharpen the
technology changes,
needs which then do
Saw.” Covey uses the common
workforce diversity,
satisfy the company
analogy of a woodcutter who is
labour shortages,
objectives.
sawing for several days straight
changing skill
and is becoming less and less
requirements, the
productive. The process of cutting
contingent workforce,
blunts the blade. So the solution
decentralized work sites, and
responsibility for training and
is to periodically sharpen the saw.
employee involvement etc.
development is concerned. Some
Covey in his book talks about
Dag Hammarskjold
as taking
Because when either one aspect
feel that the individual needs to
four aspects of self-renewal:
of above changes in the working
take responsibility for their own
physical, social/emotional,
process, it could change the
learning whereas others consider
mental, and spiritual. We are
whole business operation,
this it to be an ‘abdication of
focusing on skills and knowledge
therefore, it is important for the
company responsibility’ and that
areas covered under mental
managers to be prepared and to
development should be a
exercise in this article.
take control.
partnership between the company
The hospitality industry is a
22
There are divergent views as far
The importance and value of
and the individual. Yet another
diverse and growing industry that
staff training has long been
thought is that an individual has
needs managers who are able to
recognized. Consider the popular
the skills to be able to make their
cope with the rapid rate of
and often repeated quotation,
own decisions regarding
change. Each staff member’s role
‘Give a person a fish and you feed
professional development and,
is crucial to the efficient and
him for a day. Teach a person to
given the concerns regarding the
profitable operation of the
fish and you feed him for a
essential achievement of company
ASIAN TRAVELLER
MAY 2011
MANAGEMENT objectives, this may present a
saw — that’s putting the saw
practice the other six habits. You
process that empowers us to
conflict of interest. Other reasons
down. When you put down a dull
increase your capacity to produce
move on an upward spiral of
for lack of participation by
blade for a while, the blade will
and handle the challenges around
growth and change, of continuous
individuals include lack of
still be dull when you pick it up
you. Without this renewal, the
improvement. Education and
employer support and resources,
again.
body becomes weak, the mind
continuous improvement of
mechanical, the emotions raw, the
professional skills are vital to the
job and family. Apathy and
spirit insensitive, and the person
truly proactive, highly effective
laziness may also play a part,
selfish. Not a pretty picture, is it?
leader. Moving along the upward
lack of time and pressure of both
Today, more than ever, it is
The woodcutter can become
especially if there is a lack of
spiral requires us to learn, commit
culture of development in the
even more productive by
and do on increasingly higher
employing organisation.
sharpening the blade, studying
planes.
new woodcutting techniques,
With budgets tight, many companies are temporarily
working out to become stronger,
suspending traditional learning
and learning from other
and training initiatives. It is
critical that we continue to
woodcutters. Are you engaged in
therefore up to each manager to
“sharpen the Saw”- to improve
a programme of education or
take the initiative in “sharpening
upon our strengths, shore up our
learning of some kind? How you
the saw” – improving and
weaknesses and stay current in
should go about improving your
enhancing ability to add the
the latest thinking in our field of
mind is, of course, for you to
highest value possible.
knowledge. Those who make
decide, but you should ensure
learning and professional
that you are reading regularly.
what sharpening the saw really
development a priority will create
Naturally you want to put in the
means. If you’re overworking
significant competitive advantage
good stuff - so it’s not a case of
yourself and your productivity
for themselves.
reading for its own sake; it is
Most people fail to understand
reading carefully selected material
begins to fall off, you would stop
As you renew yourself, you
getting ‘job satisfaction’ and may
create growth and change in your
which allows you to broaden and
decide to go for a vacation.
life. Sharpen the Saw keeps you
deepen your understanding.
However, that isn’t sharpening the
fresh so you can continue to
ASIAN TRAVELLER
MAY 2011
The author is regional director for North & East, American Hotel & Lodging Educational Institute (AHLEI)
Renewal is the principle and
23
HOSPITALITY
Kasmanda Palace
A Magical holiday retreat
W
ith the summer fever gripping the nation, won’t it be a smart idea to put on your visitor’s shoes and escape this hullabaloo of the city lives? That too with a stay at a charming Palace which earlier served as a sanatorium for British Forces and now serves as the favorite summer retreat for the Kasmanda Royal Family? WelcomHeritage Kasmanda Palace stands amidst a spectacular setting in the hills in Mussoorie and having the stateliness and grandeur which is matchless. This gleaming white stately mansion built in the Anglo French Style is situated 200 meters uphill from the mall and has a magnificent view of the town of Mussoorie as well as the Doon Valley and is strategically placed in a sprawling estate of 3 acres of Pine forests, terraced gardens
and Lush Green Lawns. Here the guest is able to unfold an exquisite saga which dates back to more than 150 years of this palace’s existence which is equipped with all the modern amenities which complements the old world charm. It has 24 graceful and spacious rooms which exemplify an impressive mix of chic and antiquity. All the rooms give you a feel as if you are transported to the glorious past that once existed in the good old days. State of the Art Conference facilities, Lounge, Badminton Court, travel desk facility at the hotel make you mix travel with pleasure. Satisfying your taste buds with delectable culinary delights is its In house restaurant named Magnolia Restaurant overlooking the gardens in which one can see the Magnolia Tree and admire its flowers while enjoying the
worth a cherish. Landour meal at the restaurant which Road is a major attraction for serves Indian, Tandoori, Chinese and Selected dishes of romance lovers,
Continental food and regional cuisines. Visiting Mussoorie at this point of the year would be a treat to the senses with serenity in the air and truly scenic to the eyes as the view from Mussoorie over the valley of Dun and across the Sivalik Mountains is truly
The Lal Tibba-Sister’s Bazaar Area. It’s a place to feel the nature while enjoying a cool, serene walk and for the adventure lovers there are plethora of activities like Paragliding, trekking and river rafting which make it an irresistible holiday destination.
Choice Hotels to launch new brands in India
T
he global hospitality chain Choice Hotels International will introduce two of its global brands into India by next year to cater to rising consumer demand in the country. While the company has not disclosed the names, it is understood that the two brands that the hospitality chain plans to introduce are budget hotel ‘Econo Lodge’ and ‘Cambria Suites’, which caters to upscale customers. The company, which currently operates 27 hotel properties in India, mostly through franchise agreements, aims to have 40 hotels in its portfolio by the end of the
ASIAN TRAVELLER
next year. “We have conducted market research and realised a need to bring in an upscale brand and an economy brand into the country, possibly by the end of next year,” said Shivali V Sharma, Sales and Marketing Vice-President, Choice Hospitality India without disclosing the names. Industry sources, however, said the two brands are Econo Logde and Cambria Suites. Globally, Choice Hotels International has more than 6,000 hotels, representing more than 4.85 lakh rooms in the United States and more than 35 other countries.
MAY 2011
Le ela P alace Udaipur wins Leela Palace at Asia Spa Awards 2011
T
he Leela Palace Udaipur has been awarded the ‘Most Luxurious Hotel Spa in India’ at the recently concluded Asia Spa Awards
2011. The Asia Spa Awards recognises exceptional spas and set the benchmark in quality and innovation. Tamir Kobrin, General Manager, The Leela Palace Udaipur said that the award gave them tremendous pride to be recognised for their passion to serve, care and embrace their commitment, as they carried on with their mission to create experiences that brought joy to their guests.
25
KERALA TRAVELLER
ATTOI AGM held in Banglore
A
ssociation of Tourism Trade Organisation of India (ATTOI), has held its Annual General Body Meeting at La Classic in Bangalore. The meeting has taken up several issues causing concern to the tourism industry, and with its positive approach in resolving issues, provided its views and suggestions to the authorities. Shailesh Kumar (Mystikal India Tours), Joint Secretary, ATTOI, welcomed the meeting. V.S.K. Menon (Chalukya Grace Tours), President, ATTOI presided and Aneesh Kumar (The Travel Planners), Secretary, ATTOI presented the annual report and accounts. Jayachandran, (The Tourdesigners), Vice President, ATTOI presented the action plan for the next year followed by a discussion attended by all the members. Zacharia George (Liz Travel Solutions) offered the vote of thanks. Rajgopal Iyer, Director hotel La Classic was presented with a memento
ASIAN TRAVELLER
MAY 2011
on the occasion. A number of professionals from the tourism industry from Karnataka were also present on the occasion. ATTOI is one of the leading
forces of the tour operators in India. With its membership covering about seven states in India, it has become the voice of tourism fraternity.
Sitting L to R: Shailesh Nair (Mystikal India), Varghese Oommen (Destination Indus) Jayachandran (The Tour Designers), Chandrasenana (Cosmos Tours & Travels), Sreekumara Menon (Chalukya Grace Tours Pvt Ltd), Sisupalan (SBR Holidays), Anishkumar (The Travel Planners) Standing L to R: Neyas (Southgate Tours & Travels), Pramod (ITP Tourism Managers Pvt Ltd), Nishaad (Peacock Holidays), Sunil (Travel Veda Holidays Pvt Ltd), Zubair (Gateway Malabar Holidays Pvt Ltd), Ramesh Nair (The Explore Holidays), Balachandar (Chitra Tours & Travels), Zacharia George (Liz Travel Solutions), Janeesh Jalal (TETCS, Travel Explorer), Joy (Travelzon.in), Subhash Ghosh (Kerala Greenery)
27
NEWSLINE
Tamil Nadu gets new Tourism Minister
M
A P Anilkumar swearing in as Kerala’s new Tourism Minister
A P Anilkumar is Kerala’s new Tourism Minister
I
n the new Kerala Ministry lead by Oommen Chandy, the Tourism portfolio will be handled by A P Anilkumar. Anilkumar who got elected to the state assembly from Wandoor Constituency was the Minister for Welfare of Scheduled communities and Youth & Cultural affairs in the previous Oommen Chandy Ministry. Besides Tourism he will also be in charge of Welfare of Scheduled Castes and Backward Communities.
28
Budhichandiran who got elected to the State Assem bly from Udhagamandalam (which is famous for the popularly hill station Ooty) is the Minister for Tourism in the newly constituted J Jayalalithaa led Tamil Nadu Government. With a new government taking office, state tourism department has also got new people in top positions. V.K. Jeyakodi IAS is the new Secretary for Tourism. He will be Principal Secretary to Government, Tourism and Culture Department. Dr. A. Chittaranjan Mohandoss, IAS is the new Commissioner for Tourism and Managing Director for Tamil Nadu Tourism Development Corporation.
Rachpal Singh WB Tourism Minister
W
est Bengal also has a new Tourism Minister. Former civil servant Rachpal Singh is in charge of Tourism Department in the Mamata Banerjee Government. Raghavendra Singh, IAS is the Secretary of Tourism.
ASIAN TRAVELLER
MAY 2011
KERALA TRAVELLER
International symposium on tourism and livelihood
A
n International symposium
industry practitioners, elected
presented at
discussed at
on tourism and livelihood
representatives, academicians
the symposium
the symposium.
will be held in
and NGOs will attend the
and will be
The proposed
programme.
followed by
Symposium will
panel
directly benefit
Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala form
The symposium will address a
May 31 to June 2. The three-day symposium, which will be held at
number of issues related to
discussion on
Mascot Hotel, is jointly organised
tourism livelihood such as
the roles and
by Department of Tourism,
contribution to the local economy
responsibilities
Government of Kerala and Kerala
including linkages, impact on
of tourism industry, local self-
tourism practices and taking the
Institute of Tourism and Travel
local employment, discernible
government, NGOs and Self-Help
Responsible Tourism initiative to
Dr. Harold Goodwin, Director, ICRT
Dr. Venu V IAS, Secretary, Kerala Tourism
the state in promoting responsible
the next level.
Studies (KITTS) in association
ICRT is an agency taking the
with International Centre for Responsible Tourism (ICRT) and
lead role in promoting
Confederation of Indian Industry
implementation of the RT
(CII). The symposium will be
practices across world, raising
chaired by Dr. Harold Goodwin,
issues and working to find
Director, ICRT, Leeds
solutions and to encourage people to take responsibility for
Metropolitan University, UK and co-chaired by Dr Venu V IAS,
impact on poverty reduction and
Secretary, Kerala Tourism.
capacity building.
Key policy makers, tourism
ASIAN TRAVELLER
MAY 2011
Identified case studies will be
Groups. The Responsible Tourism Initiatives of Kerala will also be
effecting the changes necessary to make tourism more sustainable.
29
VARIETY
MAY 2011 Arabian Travel Market, Dubai, UAE
2-5
Thrissur Pooram, Thrissur, Kerala
12-13
Summer Festival, Mount Abu, India
15-17
World Travel Fair (WTF), Shanghai
12- 15
IMEX, Frankfurt Germany
24-26
1.
What does the city name Vienna mean?
2.
What does the 40-ray Sun in the flag of
Vienna
Kyrgyzstan signify? 3.
Which university’s motto is ‘The Wind of Freedom Flows’?
International symposium on tourism and livelihood, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala
4.
31-June 2
the world?
JUNE 2011 Internal Travel Expo (ITE), Hong Kong
Who is the largest champagne producer in
5.
9-12
What is the origin of the browser name Mozilla Firefox?
International Luxury Travel Market Asia (ILTM Asia), Shanghai China Champakkulam Boat Race Beijing International Tourism Expo (BITE), Beijing China
Firefly is a subsidiary of which airline?
7.
Which is Jordan’s only seaport?
17-19
8.
What is Britain’s first luxury hotel?
9.
Copenhagen is situated on two islands. One
6-7
India International Travel Mart (IITM), Bangalore
6.
16
JULY 2011 Aviation Outlook, China
Flag of Kyrgyzstan
13-16
29-31
is Amager. What is the other?
Compiled by DEEKAY
AUGUST 2011 Teej Festival, Jaipur
2-3
India International Travel Mart (IITM), Chennai
5-7
Nehru Trophy Boat Race, Alappuzha CIBTM, Beijing China
13 30-Sept 1
SEPTEMBER 2011 India International Travel Mart (IITM), Mumbai
3-5
PATA Travel Mart, New Delhi
6-9
Onam, Kerala
8-9
Aranmula Boat Race
Send in your answers to info@mediastepsindia.com with TYKC 44 in the the subject line. Answers should reach us before the 30th of this month. Answers to TYKC 43 1. 3,750 2. Umiaks are women’s boats while kayaks are men’s 3. Quetzal 4. The name is from the 100 pipers who proceeded Scotland’s legendary hero Bonnie Prince Charlie into battle 5. Master Card ( still two circles symbolizing the banks interlocking is the logo on the card) 6. ‘ I am’ 7. South 8. Kazakhstan 9. Australia 10. Wife of a rabbi
TYKC 43
14
Ladakh Festival, Ladakh
1-15
IFTM Top Resa, Paris France World Tourism Day
We haven’t received any all-correct entries for TYKC 43
20-23 27
Durga Puja Festival, West Bengal
26-Oct 6
IT&CMA and CTW Asia Pacific- Bangkok, Thailand
4-6
Marwar Festival
10-11
Rajasthan International Folk Festival (RIFF)Mehrangarh Fort, Jodhpur
12-16
ITB Asia, Singapore
19-21
Aviation Outlook Asia, Singapore
One all-correct entry will get
Free Stay at Le-Meridien, Kochi
OCTOBER 2011
30
Mozilla Firefox?
10. Where is the Tagus River flowing?
Oct 31-Nov 2
[ 2 nights and 3 days for two ]* Nestled amongst 25 acres of coconut groves and backwater rivers, Le Méridien Cochin Resort & Convention Centre sits at the heart of one of India's most naturally beautiful cities, Kochi. This prestigious landmark houses 5 floors of luxurious accommodation for international business and leisure travelers. The 151 spacious rooms and suites, most with breathtaking views over the manicured gardens and the backwaters. * Conditions apply
ASIAN TRAVELLER
MAY 2011