Asian Traveller October 2011

in. this issue .

Vol.5 No. 01 October 2011

6

A proud moment for India

India has been selected as the Chairman of United Nations South Asian Regional Commission for Tourism and will succeed Iran, in the new post. The move surely indicates confidence of various countries in India.

10 Travel industry to meet at

ExCeL London

The curtains for this year’s World Travel Market (WTM), the leading global event for the travel industry, will go up on November 7, 2011, at ExCeL London, UK.

18 Punjab to reinvent tourism

products

P 32-36

To catapult the state into one of the major tourist destinations in India, Punjab Tourism Department has taken a number of initiatives, including development of circuits for royal heritage, freedom trail, eco-tourism, etc.

20 Spain eyes standalone

destination status

Efforts are on to reposition Spain in the Indian market, as a standalone destination and a slew of measures, including an investment of USD one million for promoting the country in India.

20 Japan may invest in Buddhist and

medical tourism in India

P 38-41

21 Ireland promotes new destinations 22 Orissa joins hands with IRCTC

to promote tourism

Woman of the Month

10 Questions

60 Malaysia Airlines bags two World

Travel Awards 66 Spice up your holidays 68 Fly to South and Central America,

with Globus 70 Star Cruises, Travel Tours Group

chart new initiatives to tap

Indian market

42

Akash Gupta

Meenakshi Kumar Prabhakar

P 28

P 26

As I Travel ASIAN TRAVELLER | OCTOBER 2011

EDITOR’S NOTE

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Editorial Team :

Director - PR (Mumbai) :

GM (Marketing) :

Financial Advisor :

Legal Advisor :

GM -Tamil Nadu :

I

t makes no sense in simply reiterating time and again that tourism is an industry that can power economic development in a sustainable manner.

However, that is what tourism officials world over often do. Having said enough about improving basic infrastructure and services to propel tourism as a weapon to power economic development and to eradicate extreme poverty and hunger, it is high time the tourism authorities realised actions speak louder than words. With international tourist arrivals forecast to reach 1.8 billion by 2030, it is the right time to improve tourism infra, products and services, to provide a quality tourism experience to the travellers and to achieve economic growth in a sustainable manner, while ensuring international tourism growth in a sustained manner, in the next two decades.

In this context, it is worth mentioning UN’s initiative to help the world’s least developed countries, to take steps towards more effective tourism development. Given that tourism is one of the few economic sectors through which least developed countries (LDCs) have managed to increase their participation in the global economy, the UN’s move is commendable, as it will help the LDCs to draw a handsome number of international arrivals, which will in turn boost their foreign exchange earnings. International tourist arrivals to the 48 LDCs have taken a jump to over 17 million in 2010, from 6 million in 2000.

With increased foreign tourist arrivals and foreign exchange earnings for the past couple of months, including September, India has surely shown to the world the need to put in relentless efforts at improving tourism products, services and infra, to stand tall, even in the testing times. However, if the country wants to sustain the growth, it needs to implement the projects that are in pipeline, in a time bound manner.

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ASIAN TRAVELLER | OCTOBER 2011

OVERVIEW

A proud moment for India

I

ndian tourism industry has a reason to smile. The reason is nothing other than the selection of India as the Chairman of United Nations South Asian Regional Commission for Tourism. India will succeed Iran, in the new post. The move surely indicates confidence of various countries in India, while underlining the efforts of the Indian government at promoting tourism in the country as well as across the globe, in a responsible and a sustainable manner, to bring in inclusive growth. Sustainable, safe and honourable tourism have been the pillars of the country’s tourism strategy and they have paid off in ways more than one. These pillars have helped the Indian tourism industry, to weather the downward dive of the economy in 2008-09 and to an extent, the ongoing economic crisis brought about by the US debt crisis. And now, the same pillars have put the country as the Chairman of United Nations South Asian Regional Commission for Tourism. The credit goes to the government of India, for implementing the tourism schemes and programmes with a focus on inclusive development, integrated with the overall antipoverty strategy.

The figures of foreign tourist arrivals to the country in September 2011, if anything, justify the appointment of India at the helm of tourism in the region. In the last month, foreign arrivals to the country increased 8.7 per cent to more than Rs 4 lakh, from Rs 3.69 lakh in the comparable period, last year.

As a result, foreign exchange earnings for the month has taken a quantum jump to Rs 5748 crore, from Rs 4678 crore, in

September 2010. Even in August 2011, India has witnessed a rise in the overseas arrivals, to the country. The growth has come at a time, when the world is staring at another possible economic slump and the tourism industry in different parts of the world is feeling its heat.

No wonder, India has made it to the Chairman of United Nations South Asian Regional Commission for Tourism.

Looking ahead, the growth in the tourism industry is expected to create 25 million employment opportunities in India, by 2016-17. The projected growth will surely boost the business prospects of the hospitality sector, which may in turn see the requirement of an additional 42 million skilled persons, during the forecast period.

Well aware of the future needs, the Union Tourism Minister Subodh Kant Sahay has stressed on the need to give a boost to the skill development in the sector, by harnessing both public and private sector educational and training infrastructure of the country. He has also urged UNWTO to intensify its efforts, in providing support to the member countries, in building a skill development framework based on successful best practices across the globe.

Sahay’s concerns and initiatives speak volumes for the relentless efforts that India takes to grow its tourism industry, in a sustainable manner.

With the government of India is in the process of establishing Sustainable Tourism Criteria for India (STCI) and indicators for the hospitality (accommodation) sector and tour operators, the country is likely to grab more important positions, in the days to come.

ASIAN TRAVELLER | OCTOBER 2011

FACE TO FACE

Egypt can well be described as a land of ancient temples, tombs and other monuments. With destinations such as Nile Valley, White Med, Red Sea and Western Desert in its bag, Egypt has something to offer to every tourist. In an interview to Asian Traveller, Adel El Masry, Director, Egyptian Tourism Office, Mumbai, spoke about its various efforts to draw more travellers from Asia, especially India.

Edited Excerpts:

“India is a promising market for us�

How do you see India as a potential market for Egypt?

Indian market is one of the most important markets for us, because it is our future market. In fact, we are eyeing to attract more travellers from across Asia and turn it into one of our major markets. Recent reports say we received around 70 per cent arrivals from our traditional markets of Arab and USA, 18 per cent from Arab countries and the rest from Asian market and other countries. So, Asia is an important market for us and within Asia, India is a promising market for us. We are planning a new office in Asia, to lure more travellers to our country.

How do you plan to market your country in India?

Our plan, in fact, is a three point strategy. In the first place, we will work with our partners on joint campaigns to sell ourselves as a tourist destination. To fund such campaigns, we will increase the budget allocation. Then, we will work with the media, both public and private, to take the message to the public that the country is politically stable and offers a serene atmosphere to the travellers.

We will also promote major destinations through the media and for this we will be doubling the budget for media planning. We will also make use of our airlines company to promote Egypt.

What are your unique selling propositions (USP)?

The focus is always on our culture and we will be using cultural products to promote Egypt as a meetings, incentives, conferences and events (MICE) destination, a honeymoon destination as well as a wellness destination.

How many Indian travellers visited Egypt, last year?

Last year, we recorded around one lakh Indian arrivals. Compared to the previous years, the flow has come down a little bit. Nowadays, people are much worried about what has happened in Egypt and what will happen in Egypt. Now, efforts are being made to manage the crisis and doubling the budget for promoting the country. I think, with in two months, everything will be back to normal.

ASIAN TRAVELLER | OCTOBER 2011

WTM

Travel industry to meet at ExCeL London

T

he curtains for this year’s World Travel Market (WTM), the leading global event for the travel industry, will go up on November 7, 2011, at ExCeL London, UK. Into its 32nd year, the event has grown in its stature and today, it is one of the best platforms for the travel industry to meet, network, negotiate and conduct business. To be concluded on November 10, 2011, this year’s event is expected to line up some of the hospitality industry’s most influential executives, including speakers from some of the best known and most innovative property groups in the world, and will feature seminars, presentations and debates, on the latest industry trends and developments.

Representing all sectors of the travel industry, including tourist boards, airlines, cruise, hotels, luxury, responsible tourism and technology and online travel, WTM is a must attend event to conduct business,

gain competitive advantage, network with key industry players and acquire industry intelligence and market forecasts. Organised by the Reed Travel Exhibitions, the event is unique as it presents a diverse range of destinations

from over 189 countries.

The highlights of WTM 2011 include a dedicated social media and BRICS programme, increased speed networking opportunities for Meridian Club buyers and a WTM Mobile App. In 2010, WTM

and industry sectors to about 47,512 global travel professionals.

Held with a strong sports tourism theme, this year’s event is expected to examine the potential of sports tourism and attract more than 5000 exhibitors

had clocked business to the tune of $1425 million and this year the organisers are expecting a greater amount of business.

This year’s gala event will feature WTM Advice Clinics, WTM Technology and Online Travel, WTM Ministerial

Programme and WTM Hotel Programme. The 2011 hotel programme will be dedicated to buyers and suppliers from the hotel industry, to provide insights into key issues of the sector, while the WTM Ministerial Programme will bring together around 200 tourism ministers, aides and industry experts, to share their extensive knowledge, ideas and experiences. The ministers’ summit will focus on ‘how tourism can prosper in times of uncertainty’ and it will be moderated by globally renowned journalist, Keith Bellows of National Geographic Traveler magazine.

However, the main attraction of the event will be its focus on technology.

“The interest in this year’s technology and online travel region, from the pre-registered visitors and potential buyers strengthens WTM’s position as the leading global event for doing business. WTM 2011 really does mean technology,” smiles, Jo Marshall, TOT Sales Manager, WTM.

GEM11 to be held in London, on Nov 4, 2011

E

uropean Tour Operators Association (ETOA) will organise Global European Marketplace, 2011 (GEM11), the most important gathering of the European inbound tourism industry, at the Wembley Stadium Conference Centre, London, on November 4, 2011.

GEM is an annual members-only event, where tour operator buyers sit down for a series of pre-scheduled meetings, with a wide range of suppliers and trade contacts, ranging from hotels

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and specialist retailers, to tourist boards. what is happening in the market,” says “GEM is being held at the Wembley ETOA’s Executive Director, Tom Jenkins.

Stadium Conference Centre, for the Established ETOA tour operator second year. Running for nearly 20 years, members attending GEM11 include the event’s success lies in its British Airways Holidays, Cox ability to provide suppliers an and Kings, Expedia, Globus/ extraordinary concentration of Cosmos Gullivers, JacTravel, tour operators. This year, the Kuoni, Miki, Tauck World event is expected to draw more Discovery, Tourico, Tracoin and than 230 tour operator buyers.

Travel Plaza. The event will also The industry is changing and feature new members such as our membership is changing.

Tom Jenkins Groupon, Indian Compass Executive Director, ETOA and Travellanda.

Attending GEM is a reflection of

ASIAN TRAVELLER | OCTOBER 2011

WTM

Unparalleled opportunity to showcase a region

It’s time for the travel industry to travel to London, as the curtains for World Travel Market (WTM) is set to go up on November 7, 2011, at the international exhibition and convention centre ExCeL London. In an interview to Asian Traveller, Fiona Jeffery, Chairman, WTM, cut a clear picture of the importance of an event like WTM, to boost the sagging spirit of the world travel market, which is watching the looming financial crisis with crossed fingers. Edited Excerpts: How is WTM relevant as a brand within a global market?

Staged annually in London, World Travel Market is the leading event within the global marketplace for the travel industry. The event is a must attend four-day business-to-business event, presenting a diverse range of destinations and industry sectors to UK and international travel professionals.

Can you give us a brief idea about the evolution of the WTM brand globally?

WTM, now in its 32nd year, is the event where the travel industry conducts and concludes its deals. Over the years, the event has grown in size and it plays host to more than 5000 exhibitors from 189 countries. Also, last year saw £165 million expansion of WTM’s host venue ExCeL London and it has enabled the show to grow and offer more space, to our global exhibitors.

What differentiates WTM from such similar events?

WTM is the place for the industry to come to do business. WTM 2011 is set to be the catalyst for even more travel industry business deals than ever before, reveals a poll of Meridian Club members – WTM’s business club for senior travel

ASIAN TRAVELLER | OCTOBER 2011

industry buyers. WTM 2010 led to a massive £1,425 million travel industry deals. Almost 90 per cent of Meridian Club members expect to conduct a greater amount of business (in monetary value) at WTM 2011, than they did at WTM 2010.

As a platform for trade, what are the business opportunities offered

at WTM? How successful has this platform been over the past years?

To facilitate business between exhibitors and buyers, the Speed Networking session will now take place as a one hour-long session, before the exhibition opens. ‘My WTM Connections’ online tool is another great service, which will enable business to be done effectively and efficiently, by allowing buyers to connect with exhibitors and other participants before, during and after the event. Last year 34,360 participants utilised this tool and almost 14,200 messages were sent out, enabling participants to make the most of their time at WTM. In this time of economic crisis, what impact can an event like WTM bring to the travel industry, worldwide?

WTM is a unique opportunity for the global travel trade to meet, network, negotiate and conduct business. By attending WTM, participants efficiently, effectively and productively gain immediate competitive advantage for their business and stay abreast with the latest developments, in the travel industry.

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WTM Have you set any specific theme for this year’s event? If yes, what are your plans to realise it?

WTM 2011 will have a strong sports tourism theme, as the event examines the potential of sports tourism, with the London Olympics’ impact on the UK tourism industry as a key focus. I am also delighted to be able to announce that the Olympics Minister Jeremy Hunt will be the opening speaker for WTM 2011.

The minister’s involvement in WTM demonstrates both the role travel and tourism will play in the success of the games and the importance of WTM, to the sector.

What sort of participation does WTM expect in 2011? How is it going to be different from the previous years?

This year’s WTM will continue to build on the excellent results we achieved in 2010. WTM 2010 witnessed an increase of five per cent in the combined flow of exhibitors and visitors.

There were more than 5,000 exhibitors, including 628 Main Stand Holders at WTM 2010 and it led to a massive £1,425 million travel industry deals.

What are the highlights of WTM 2011?

This year, WTM will have a couple of new initiatives, including a dedicated social media programme and BRICS programme, increased Speed Networking opportunities for Meridian Club buyers and a WTM Mobile App, which is free to download from all major smart phones. We will also be highlighting sports tourism, with this one being the final WTM before the London Olympics.

Can you give us an idea of the Asian participation (especially from India) at WTM? How do you see Asian participation at WTM shows evolving over the years?

India is one of the most important inbound and outbound destinations and the country had a large representation at WTM 2010, thanks to the new exhibitors.

The new exhibitors include Travel Inn, Travel Services International, Trail Blazer Tours India and Quadlabs from the travel agency sector and Somatheeram Ayurvedic Group and Chariot Beach Resort, from the hospitality sector.

In addition to the 11 new participants, six existing companies, including Creative Travel, Le Passage to India and Travel Boutique Online, expanded their presence at WTM 2010. The Indian

12

Government Tourist Office also increased its presence, while Rajasthan Tourism and Karnataka Tourism exhibited for the first time. WTM will focus on BRICS this year, with a session that is aimed at interested WTM participants from these emerging markets. The Indian inbound and outbound market will be part of this.

Do you think that WTM has anything special to offer to Asian travel companies? Please detail.

Recent statistics from the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) show the region’s tourism has got a significant boost, so far in 2011, compared to the previous year. The increase in cheap flights to Thailand, Maldives, Nepal, Sri Lanka and other sought-after destinations have helped to attract a

record numbers of visitors to the region.

This is excellent news for the inbound tourism market in Asia and the region should remain high on their agenda.

WTM will be an ideal platform for them, to showcase their region.

We hope Asia continues to see the importance of attending WTM and uses the event to do relevant business, during the four days.

This year, we have an extremely comprehensive event programme, consisting of 111 conferences and seminars. Through this comprehensive programme, WTM will cover different segments related to travel market, including, hospitality (hotels), airline, cruise, etc. Asian countries will surely benefit from attending such sessions.

ASIAN TRAVELLER | OCTOBER 2011

INDIAN PANORAMA

GREEN BEAUTY For an unmatched travelling experience, visit the evergreen Wayanad, where you can be with the nature, exploring its various offerings, writes Arya Anil

I

t is salubrious weather and spectacular views that make Wayanad a hot destination and one of the natural wonders of the God’s own country. Nestled in the Western Ghats, Wayanad is part of the northeast Kerala and borders both Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. Even the journey to this steadily growing tourist hot spot is exciting and rejuvenating. As you journey up the winding roads to Wayanad, you can feel the enlivening aroma of herbs and you can feel your tense muscles starting to relax and the stress melting away.

Lofty peaks, mist clad hills and dales,

ASIAN TRAVELLER | OCTOBER 2011

large rocks, gurgling streams, dense forests, skipping waterfalls and fruit orchards that constantly disappear and reappear in the mist add magic to the journey to this evergreen destination.

You can also spot luxuriant plantations of coffee, tea, cardamom, pepper and rubber, strewn all over the hills of Wayanad. This district of Kerala is surely a gateway to some veiled bewitching beauty and exotic experience. Spread across about 2,132 square kilometres, the misty environs of Wayanad offer a wide range of trekking opportunities and enough options for plantation visits and wildlife tours.

If you like excitement and adventure and want to spend the day, and even the evenings, enjoying active pursuits, you would not be disappointed here.

Wayanad is not just for those who want to relax quietly. If you are the one with a bent for trekking, make the most of it by heading to Kuruvadweep, a 950acre island on the tributaries of the river Kabani. Located about 17 kilometres east of Mananthavady, Kuruvadweep will make you go awestruck, with its wide expanse of the evergreen forest and serenity. The island, which is surrounded by streams and river, can be accessed using rafts or fibre boats run by the

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For wildlife lovers, Wayanad offers another option in Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary and Park. An ideal destination to watch herds of wild elephants, Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary is 16 kilometres from Sulthan Bathery, a small town in Wayanad. In this biggest wildlife destination of Malabar, you can spot spotted deer, gaurs, leopards, sloth bears, sambars, etc. The sanctuary

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is also home to a wide variety of birds, including peacocks, babblers, egrets, snipes, bulbuls, peafowl and cormorants.

Besides watching the wildlife, make sure that you take an elephant ride provided by the Forest Department. Discovering and observing the wildlife, while being atop an elephant is an enthralling and unforgettable experience.

If visiting the other two wildlife sanctuaries have instilled in you the desire to experience more of it, head to Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary, home to hundreds of elephants and several varieties of birds. Flanked by towering mountain ranges on all four sides, Tholpetty is a spectacular and a serene venue. Rich in bio diversity, the sanctuary is an integral part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. Here, you can take any trail that suits you. The nature trail you take around the area surely be fascinating, as you will find bird-

Praveen Muraleedharan

Kerala Tourism Department. Entrance to the island is restricted and monitored by the ‘Vana Samrakshana Samiti’, a Kerala Forest Department initiative to protect the forest. However, if you ever plan to visit the spot during heavy rain or the point of time when usually elephants and other animals roam freely around the island, it is a must to obtain a pass from the Department of Forest, prior to your trip. This forest land is home to rare species of birds, orchids and herbs.

From Kuruvadweep, one can easily reach the Begur Wildlife Sanctuary, a perfect place for nature and wildlife lovers. Here, you will have the rare opportunity to learn about the trees that have rare medicinal values. Also, the sanctuary is home to wildlife such as elephants, deer, tigers, boars, leopards, etc. The best time to visit Begur Wildlife Sanctuary, a photographer’s paradise, is December-May.

watching towers and several stop-off points. And as the dusk falls, you will understand why this time of the day is perfect for a camp. Watchtower of this sanctuary is situated above the lake.

Once you have had enough of the wild Wayanad, it is time to experience the cascading waterfalls. The sight of the waterfall against the background of

At Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary you can take an elephant ride. Discovering and observing the wildlife, while being atop an elephant is an enthralling and unforgettable experience majestic mountains and scenic splendour is something that even a camera cannot capture completely. It is sure to remain etched in your memories forever. You have several options and one among them is Sentinel Rock Waterfall at Vellarimala. It is a picnic spot as well as a trekking centre. As the name indicates, the waterfall makes its way down the rocks, hitting the sharp spikes of granite at the base. The pool at the foot of the falls is ideal for a quick dip. The waterfall makes its way down the rocks, from a height of 300 feet. The tree top huts here will give you a unique view of the valleys of the Western Ghats and the glimmering shallow waters of the surrounding streams.

Another major fall is Meenmutty Waterfall and it is the biggest and the most spectacular waterfall, in Wayanad.

It will take an interesting two kilometres of jungle trek to reach the fall, which is located 29 kilometres away from Kalpetta. A unique feature of Meenmutty Waterfall is its triple-decker effect – the

ASIAN TRAVELLER | OCTOBER 2011

INDIAN PANORAMA water drops from nearly 1000 feet, over three stages.

Wayanad also has a seasonal waterfall in Chethalayam Waterfall. Though it dries up during summer, it is a lovely place to visit for trekking. Chethalayam Waterfall is located about 12 kilometres from Sulthan Bathery.

This emerging tourist spot is also known for its various avenues for adventure tourism. For instance, trekking to the Chembra peak is likely to thrill

cupid lake. The heart shaped lake, which is believed to have never dried up, is a major tourist attraction. You can spot occasional plains, especially soon after the cupid lake. The climb is pretty steep throughout, sometimes approaching 60 degrees.

Another major attraction in Wayanad is Banasura Sagar Dam, the largest earth

expanse of water and its picturesque beauty is enhanced by the chain of mountains seen on the backdrop.

Legends say Banasura peak is named after the ‘Asura’ King of Banasura, the son of King Mahabali, who is believed to visit Kerala during the Onam festival.

Banasura is said to have undertaken a severe penance at the top of this hill.

dam in India and the second largest in Asia. It is located about 21 kilometres from Kalpetta and is an excellent base to start off a trekking expedition, to the Banasura peak. If you are travelling with your children, they can have enough fun, at the children’s park near the dam. What will catch your imagination here are the set of islands that were formed when the reservoir submerged the surrounding areas. These islands, with the Banasura peak in the background, provide a spectacular view. The dam, which impounds the Karamanathodu tributary of the Kabani River, holds a large

For the pilgrim travellers, Wayanad has an option in Thirunelli Temple. It is an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Surrounded by the Kambamala, Karimala and the Varadiga peaks, Thirunelli Temple embodies classical and traditional architecture of Kerala.

This riverside temple is close to the mountain spring Papanashini. A ritual dip in its clear waters is believed to wash away one’s sins. A seven kilometres trek from Thirunelli will take you to Pakshipathalam, a natural rock cave at the northern end of the Brahmagiri hills.

the adventure seekers. Trekking to the top of Chembra peak, the highest peak in Wayanad, will take almost a day.

Tourists can stay at the top of the peak, in temporary camps, for one or two days.

District Tourism Promotion Council provides guides, sleeping bags, canvases, huts and trekking implements, on hire.

The scenic beauty of Wayanad, which is visible from the top of Chembra, is simply superb.

At about 2100 metres above the sea level, Chembra Peak is a must visit, if you ever plan a trip to Wayanad. The peak is accessible by foot from Meppadi.

En route to the top of the peak, to evoke the romantic person in you, there is a

Praveen Muraleedharan

The scenic beauty of Wayanad, which is visible from the top of Chembra peak, is simply superb

Photo Courtesy: Praveen Muraleedharan, TeamEco Ventures

ASIAN TRAVELLER | OCTOBER 2011

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No visit to Wayanad is complete, without being to Lakkidi, the gateway of Wayanad. The lofty mountain peaks, luxuriant vegetation and the bird’s eye view of the deep valley on the south, with its winding roads, make Lakkidi a breathtaking spot. Lakkidi lies atop Thamarassery, a ghat pass at an elevation of 700 metres above the sea level. The journey to Lakkidi through the ghat road, with nine hairpin bends, amidst thick forests is a fascinating experience. Lakkidi is said to be the area that receives the second highest rainfall in the country and hence the scope for water-based adventure activities is maximum. With its several species of rare birds, Lakkidi is also a hot spot for bird-watchers from all over the world.

One of the popular attractions of Lakkidi is Pookote Lake, a natural fresh water lake, located three kilometres away from Vythiri town. Surrounded on all sides by meadows and hills, this lake is one of the rare reservoirs of water, in Wayanad. Boating in the Pookote Lake is a memorable experience. Tall trees and dense forests that line along the pathway

Praveen Muraleedharan

INDIAN PANORAMA

a height of about 1000 metres, Edakkal caves represent the world’s richest pictographic gallery of its kind. Edakkal rock engravings stand out distinct among the magnitude of prehistoric visual archives of paintings and graphic signs all over the world. Formed by a large split in a huge rock, the two natural rock formations can be accessed only by a one kilometre trek trail from Edakkal. The term ‘edakkal’ literally means ‘a stone in between’. Nature representations on these cave walls made by ‘neolithic

Pazhassi Raja, Sultan Bathery Jain Temple and Wayanad Heritage Museum.

The tomb of the Pazhassi Raja, who fought the British with the help of Kurichiya warriors, is in Mananthavady.

Sultan Bathery Jain Temple is one of the most important amongst a series of Jain ruins spread across the Kerala state.

It testifies to a period of a strong Jain presence in this region. Believed to have been built in the 13th century, it served as a Hindu shrine, an important centre for commercial activity and eventually

One of the popular attractions of Lakkidi is Pookote Lake. Surrounded on all sides by meadows and hills, this lake is one of the rare reservoirs of water, in Wayanad as a battery (ammunition store) for Tipu Sultan’s marching armies.

The Wayanad Heritage Museum is located close to Ambalavayal. The museum is home to an interesting collection of artefacts that shed light into the history, culture and heritage of the celts’ were first identified by a British Wayanad region. The artefacts at the man on a hunting trip. The new ‘stone museum include headgear, weapons age’ pictorial writings on the walls are pottery and objects associated with evidence of the prehistoric civilisation tribal life. A series of pictorial rock edicts that existed in these regions and have the referred to as Hero Stones, memorialise distinction of being the first specimen of a bygone age of valiant warriors. abraded drawings found in India.

Adjoining the museum is a small theatre, Located close to Ambalavayal town where you can watch a multimedia around the lake is a visual treat, you will is Phantom Rock, a skull shaped rock presentation on Wayanad. It will surely remember for a long time. A freshwater formation. Phantom Rock is a beauty to be a rare experience. aquarium, with a large variety of fish, is behold and is a site in itself. Locally, this Clean and pristine, enchanting and an added attraction of the Pookote Lake. rock formation is known as Cheengeri hypnotising, Wayanad has something The historical and cultural importance Mala and it is situated amidst scenic to offer to everyone. Moreover, this land of Wayanad can be traced back to at least surroundings. has a history and a mystery, culture 10 centuries before Christ. Situated on Other heritage attractions in Wayanad and social epistemology, yet to be Ambukuthi Hills near Ambalavayal at include the tomb of the Kerala Varma discovered and explored.

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ASIAN TRAVELLER | OCTOBER 2011

NEWSLINE

Promoting India in CIS countries

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n a bid to promote India and its tourism products, an Indian delegation led by the Union Minister for Tourism Subodh Kant Sahay recently visited the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) countries of Russia, Ukraine and Kazakhstan and conducted road shows at Moscow, Kyiv and Almaty. The delegation, which comprised of major tour operators, travel agents, hoteliers, destination marketing companies and

Punjab to reinvent tourism products

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unjab Tourism Department has taken a number of initiatives, including development of circuits for royal heritage, freedom trail, ecotourism, etc., as part of its 15-year vision plan to catapult the state into one of the major tourist destinations in India. The state has allocated around Rs 1000 crore for developing various tourism circuits and tourist friendly amenities, in the next ten years.

“Our goal is to attract more tourists to the state, in the coming years. As part of this move, the tourism department has formulated a 15-year vision plan to catapult the state into the top position in tourism. We have drawn up a road map with the help of United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) and several products have been identified for promotions,” says, Vidya B Kumar, Executive Director, Punjab Heritage and Tourism Promotion Board (PHTPB).

As per the available reports, Punjab is planning to promote itself as a niche destination for the film industry in India. Besides, the tourism board also has plans to promote farm tourism and heritage tourism in a big way. The state is home to 17 registered farmhouses based on different themes, such as colonial farm, medical farm, etc. “We have already engaged a consultant

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to promote farm tourism products in international markets,” informs, Kumar.

When it comes to heritage tourism, the state is thinking of developing circuits connecting both the royal and religious heritage sites, it is learnt.

Punjab recently saw Amritsar Heritage Walk, a 1.5 kilometres long walk through the walled city of Amritsar, showcasing important heritage structures along Crawling Street, Chowrasti Atari, Sangalwalia Akhara, etc. Similar Heritage Walks are planned in Patiala and Sultanpur as well.

In the eco-tourism segment, Punjab is expected to seek the expertise of Jungle Lodges and Resorts (JLR) of Karnataka, to develop unique eco-tourism lodges.

It also has plans to set up a Heritage Village at Amritsar in 10 acres of land provided by Guru Nanak University.

In another move, the state is expected to formulate a hotel policy, in consultation with the hotel industry stakeholders, shortly. Although there are about 800 hotels in the state, there are only 80 classified hotels. “Efforts are being taken to increase the average overnight stay of tourists coming into the state from the current one to two nights, by offering varied product offerings,” concludes, Kumar.

airlines, interacted with the travel trade members in those countries, to encourage them to sell India, to their clients.

During the visit Sahay unveiled his plans to operate a Regional Tourism Office of Government of India at Moscow from first of next month and to form a joint India-Russia Tourist Trade Forum under the aegis of Indian Embassy in Moscow, to promote tourism between the two countries. The minister also stressed upon the need to improve connectivity between various cities of the two countries.

TAAI to celebrate diamond jubilee in December

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ravel Agents Association of India (TAAI) will celebrate its diamond jubilee on December 16 and 17 at a function to be held at Taj Land’s End Hotel, Mumbai. The authorities have planned India Travel Trade Expo 2011 and TAAI Travel Awards, as part of the jubilee celebrations.

ASIAN TRAVELLER | OCTOBER 2011

NEWSLINE

Japan may invest in Buddhist and medical tourism in India

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f the outcome of the meeting between the Japanese Minister for Tourism and Infrastructure Jin Matsubara and the Union Tourism Minister Subodh Kant Sahay in Tokoyo is anything to go by, Japan is likely to invest in tourism infra in India and it has identified two areas, Buddhist and medical tourism, to make its investments.

“Japanese multinational companies are of the opinion that India has a huge potential to grow tourism in Buddhist and Medical Tourism sector and investment in this sector will pay huge dividends to both the countries,” says, Matsubara.

Since Japanese are fond of travelling, medical tourism is expected to boost travel and trade relations between both

the countries. Japan is having highest elderly population in the world and hence it sees India as an attractive destination for medical tourism, which can be packaged along with pilgrim travel to Buddhist centres.

“Indian medical systems, like yoga and ayurveda, are immensely popular in Japan and we like to open more yoga centres in Japan,” adds the Japanese Tourism Minister.

This year, India is celebrating 60th year of diplomatic relations with Japan and hence Japan has selected India as its theme for the Snow festival. As per the reports, Taj Mahal made of ice will be replicated in this festival.

Indian cultural troupe is expected to participate in the festival and Indian cousins would also be displayed.

Sri Lanka to scrap visa on arrival system

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n order to streamline the issuance of the travel document and curtail the abuse of on arrival visa policy, Sri Lanka is likely to scrap the ‘visa on arrival’ system applicable to 78 countries, including India, from next year. Instead, the island country is expected to

promote the new Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) that would enable the authorities to track down any foreigner, who overstays in the country. As per the information at hand, the ETA would issue visas at $50 a person for a 30-day stay, with double entry. The move is

aimed at keeping in check the people who enter the country as tourists and later on set up business or find jobs and settle down in the country. Tourism is a major foreign exchange earner for the island nation.

“Each hotel and guest house will be given a machine. Foreigners will

have to keep their passport on this machine before going to their room. The system would enable us to gather data on tourist arrivals to the country,” explains, Chulananda Perera, Immigration and Emigration Controller, Government of Sri Lanka.

Spain eyes standalone destination status

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fforts are on to reposition Spain in the Indian market, as a standalone destination and a slew of measures, including an investment of USD one million for promoting the country in India and extension of tax deduction of 18 per cent of the cost of the film or series, to encourage film shoots in Spain have been mulled to achieve the goal.

“Rather than marketing Spain as a part of European tour itinerary for two to three days, we want tourists to stay for six to seven days in Spain. We like to portray Spain as an all year destination,” smiles Joan

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Mesquida Ferrando, Deputy Minister - Tourism, Spain.

Spain had witnessed a 35 per cent growth in Indian arrivals in the first seven months of 2011 and the Tourism

Office of Spain is now targeting a growth of 40 per cent in Indian arrivals, year-onyear, in 2011.

“Spain is multidimensional destination, with products like beaches, heritage sites, shopping, sports, natural reserves, festivals and much more. We expect a total of 56 to 57 million tourist arrivals, by the end of 2011. As far India is concerned, Spain aspires to be the preferred destination for Indians.

There are similarities between the Indan and Spanish cultures, festivals, art, food and also the way of life,” adds Ferrando.

ASIAN TRAVELLER | OCTOBER 2011

NEWSLINE

Ireland promotes new destinations

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o attract more Indian outbound travellers to Ireland, Tourism Ireland has initiated a number of initiatives, including road shows, to promote new destinations such as Belfast, Cork and Galway among Indian travel trade consumers. It has recently concluded road shows in Delhi and Mumbai, to showcase their products and services to nearly 150 Indian travel trade professionals.

“India and China are the two important emerging markets. India is a potential market and we want to showcase destinations beyond Dublin, to Indian travellers. So, we are focusing on places like Belfast, Cork and Galway and we are concentrating on attracting segments like family, honeymoon and meetings, incentives, conferences and events (MICE),” says, Amanda Burns, General Manager - Middle East and Asia, Tourism Ireland.

Galway is known for its geographical features, including its mountain ranges with the Twelve Bens dominating the Connemara skyline, islands off the coast, freshwater lakes, beaches, castles and the Oyster Festival. On the other hand, Belfast is the largest city in Northern Ireland and is known for its rich scenic

beauty. This is the place where the ship ‘Titanic’ was built.

Indian tourist arrivals to Ireland has been on the rise over the years and the new visa waiver policy introduced in July this year is expected to boost the arrivals further. Ireland recorded 17,000 Indian visitors in 2009 and 18,000 in

(CIS) countries and select countries in the Middle East, to enhance travel to Ireland.

“With the new visa waiver policy, which will be effective till October next year, we expect tourism to grow by six per cent year-on-year. In addition, proposed introduction of Dubai-Dublin

2010. The country is expecting more than 19,000 Indian visitors this year. The visa waiver policy allows visitors from 16 countries with valid UK visas to visit Ireland directly, without having to apply for a separate Ireland visa. This scheme has been introduced for travellers from countries like India, China, Russia, Commonwealth of Independent States

flights by Emirates from January 9, 2012 will provide better connectivity, as the airline will connect Dublin to 10 cities in India,” Burns informs.

Tourism Ireland organises island tours and offer bicycle tours, guided tours, pony tours, etc., to cater to the needs of travellers flocking to the country.

South Africa sets new minimum standard for responsible tourism

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eiterating the importance of sustainability in growing the tourism industry, South Africa has officially launched its new, globally aligned minimum standard for responsible tourism initiative. Benchmarked against the Global Sustainable Tourism Council’s criteria and based on the three cornerstones of sustainable tourism - social and cultural, economic and environmental responsibility - the South African National Minimum Standard for Responsible Tourism (SANMSRT) is the

end product of consultations between the National Department of Tourism and all the stakeholders of the industry.

“There is a growing Hanneli Slabber, Country Head, South awareness African Tourism - India amongst tourists across the globe, on a destination’s adherence to environmental and social standards, before they make travel bookings and plan accommodation. We are pleased that the new

ASIAN TRAVELLER | OCTOBER 2011

minimum standard offers a unified national responsible tourism standard and accreditation system. We are confident that this holistic form of tourism will help travellers, the host population and the trade, to derive the best possible benefits from tourism, without causing any economic, ecological or social damage,” says, Hanneli Slabber, Country Head, South African Tourism - India.

Responsible tourism principles include adherence to ethical business practises

and respect for cultural and natural environments by maintaining hygienic conditions and avoiding energy and water over consumption. Besides, steps will be taken to ensure that local communities benefit from tourism.

“Very few countries have published national standards of this level and I am certain that through this initiative, South Africa will set a benchmark for knowledge and leadership in this field, for other countries,” she adds.

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NEWSLINE

Another golden feather in the cap of Captain Nair

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aking the outstanding contribution to the hospitality sector into account, the Times Travel Academy has conferred the Lifetime Achievement Award to Captain C P Krishnan Nair, Chairman of The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts, at the Times Travel Honours held in Mumbai recently.

Instituted for the first time this year, the Times Travel Honours’ Lifetime Achievement Award is presented to an individual who has made an outstanding contribution to the hospitality industry. The Times Travel Academy honoured Captain Nair for redefining

the Indian hospitality landscape, by creating new standards of excellence in luxury services.

“Captain Nair has raised the bar of high-end luxury in India and his Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts stand testimony to his passion and commitment,” says, Dr Bhaskar Das, President, Times Group.

The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts have set a new benchmark for luxury hotels in India, providing discerning business and leisure travellers, from across the globe, with the finest in guest services. “It is a great honour to be recognised by my peers in the industry.

This award motivates me to further serve and contribute to the hospitality community,” smiles, Captain Nair.

With ‘Atithi Devo Bhava’ as his guiding principle,

Orissa joins hands with IRCTC to promote tourism

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he Orissa Tourism Development Corporation (OTDC) and the Indian Rail Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), to promote tourist destinations in the state. IRCTC, which offers rail tour packages, has identified a number of destinations in the state, to woo tourists and will offer 10 tourist packages to the OTDC, in the first phase. Travellers from Orissa can avail the packages to Goa, Hyderabad, New Delhi, Agra, Rajasthan, Shirdi, Tirupati and Mathura, while tourists to Orissa can choose from packages to Puri, Konark and Bhubaneswar.

“As per the terms and conditions listed out in the MoU, IRCTC would market tourism products of Orissa, at all its counters across the country and

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provide accommodation, train tickets and sightseeing and food facilities, to the tourists. Special facilities will also be provided to the state’s tourists, opting for IRCTC’s ‘Bharat Darshan package’, which has received an overwhelming response, as it covered prominent temples, at an affordable rate,” says, Amlan Kumar Biswal, Chief Regional Manager (East Coast Railway), IRCTC. Similar arrangements will also be made by OTDC for tourists who visit the state through IRCTC. “The packages are all affordable and besides coaches and berths in regular trains, IRCTC would arrange special trains, depending on the inflow of customers. Though the MoU stands valid only for a year, it would be extended based on the response to the packages,” concludes, M R Patnaik, General Manager, OTDC.

Captain Nair has built a team of over 5,000 associates and they have assisted him in delighting guests at each of his hotels and in putting the Leela on the global map.

Light and sound programme at Udaigiri caves, Orissa

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overnment of India has sanctioned 125 lakh to India Tourism Development Corporation Ltd (ITDC), to organise sound and light show programme at Udaigiri caves in Orissa. ITDC implemented the project and the trial run was held in April, 2008. However, due to conservation issues raised by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), the show was not commissioned.

ITDC has now submitted a concept paper for an alternative sound and light show at Udaigiri.

ASIAN TRAVELLER | OCTOBER 2011

NEWSLINE

Sterling Holidays opens new resorts in Karwar and Goa

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s part of its aggressive expansion strategy, Sterling Holidays, a pioneer in vacation ownership in India and a leading leisure hospitality company, has opened new resorts in beach destinations of Karwar and Goa. While Emerald Bay is its maiden venture in Karwar, with the launch of Villagio Inn, the company has now

Betalbatim, a charming, quiet village in South Goa. Perfect for a family vacation, the resort offers a host of facilities, including a swimming pool, 24-hour coffee shop, poolside lounge as well as fully equipped conference facilities.

The picturesque Betalbatim beach, which is renowned for its stunning sunsets, is within walking distance from the

two resorts in Goa. Villagio Inn is a 58-room boutique resort located in

resort. Guests can also walk through the quaint streets of the Indo-Portuguese village

and explore the unique culture of the area.

Its new resort in Karwar, Emerald Bay, is a full-service Sterling Holidays resort, nestled in an unspoilt, unexplored region. Located next to the estuary, where the Kali River meets the Arabian Sea, the resort features 50 luxurious guest rooms and suites. The resort is equipped with a host of amenities guaranteed to deliver a complete vacation experience for families.

Facilities at Emerald Bay include an outdoor pool, a multi-cuisine restaurant, an indoor recreation hall and a host of exciting outdoor activities, including water sports and sightseeing tours to local attractions. Emerald Bay, Karwar, is located 95 kilometres from Goa, enabling guests of Sterling Holidays to combine a holiday in two of India’s best beach destinations.

“The launch of our new resorts in Karwar and Goa is representative of the resurgence of Sterling Holidays. Our expansion is driven by a strategic and focused approach of adding new properties, Ramesh Ramanathan, Managing Director to deliver an improved, unique vacation experience. With Emerald Bay, we also hope to play a role in placing exotic beach destinations such as Karwar on the tourism map and contribute to the growth of tourism and the local economy. We are already present in Puri and Goa. Beach destinations, thus, form an integral part of our expansion strategy,”smiles, Ramesh Ramanathan, Managing Director, Sterling Holidays.

IHCL starts fourth Gateway hotel in Gujarat

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he Tata’s Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL) has launched The Gateway Hotel Gir Forest in Gujarat, taking its total number of Gateway brand hotels in the state, to four. The group already operates Gateway brand in different places in Gujarat, including Ahmedabad and

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Vadodara. The Gateway Hotel Gir Forest comprises 28 aesthetically designed rooms that are equipped with modernday facilities and a multi-cuisine restaurant GAD. “With this opening, we endeavour to pioneer new and unique destinations.

While Gir Forest needs no introduction,

we feel that there is a great scope to develop tourism and hospitality here.

We are happy to receive support and encouragement from the state government and we hope to grow and expand our operations in the state,” says, P K Mohankumar, COO, The Gateway Hotels and Resorts.

ASIAN TRAVELLER | OCTOBER 2011

Q&A Having born into a travel business family, a career in travel industry was a natural option for Meenakshi Kumar Prabhakar. However, it was her belief in self and ability to excel, determination, and dedication to work that assisted her to build a successful career in the field. She believes in women empowerment and is the one, who counts success in bringing business to her company. She is not addicted to the proudest moments and advises young girls to believe in themselves and their capabilities, in order to build a successful career in the travel industry. Read more…

After completing my studies, I worked as a trainee and subsequently as an executive, in different departments of Shikhar Travels and Shikhar MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Events), to learn in-depth about the work done by Shikhar, before moving to web-marketing.

Now, I am managing the overall marketing of the company.

Would you please cut a clear picture of the task cut out for you, at Shikhar?

I am responsible for generating business, for the company. I take care of the overall marketing of our inbound tours, educational tours, conferences and our resorts - Shikhar Nature Resort, Uttarkashi and A Village Retreat, Gurgaon. My work involves all aspects of web-marketing and one-toone marketing.

What plans - immediate and long term - do you have?

We, at Shikhar, are in the middle of developing our outbound tours department and website. We are planning responsibilities you have to launch ‘Shikhar Out Biz’ handled so far, with Shikhar. sometime next year. We are Travelling has always also putting all our efforts and been a passion for me. I have resources on web-marketing always loved visiting new at the moment, as our places, exploring unexplored company strongly believes destinations, communicating that ‘web’ is the way ahead. with local people and learning As a hospitality industry about the local cuisine and professional, what is your culture. As I grew up as a ambition? Where would member of the family, which you like to see yourself, say, was deeply into the travel 10 years from now? business, I had enough of If you believe in opportunities to be part of something, there is no reason tours, at a very young age. why you cannot make it What attracted you to travel and tourism business?

And, if you don’t mind, share with us the various

Meenakshi Kumar Prabhakar Director - Marketing Shikhar Travels (India) Pvt. Ltd.

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happen. We must ‘dare to dream’ and that is the only way to grow. Shikhar Travels is already quite diversified in various fields of the tourism industry. In 10 years from now, I would like to see my company grow 10 folds from what it is today.

When you look back now, do you recall the faces that have exerted an influence in your professional life?

The person who has exerted a great influence in my professional (and personal) life is undoubtedly my father, Captain Swadesh Kumar, who is also the Managing Director of Shikhar Group of companies. Driven by his desire to go beyond commercial matters, his emphasis has always been on involving the communities with which he deals, so that they can grow, progress and prosper, and share in the gains, be they material or otherwise. He is a true leader, not only for me but for everyone at Shikhar.

As a woman, what were the challenges you had to face in your professional life? Do you have any advice to young girls, who want to enter this industry?

Our profession involves a lot of travelling, especially if you are into marketing.

And it can get difficult at times, when you have to balance time for your family and work. There are a lot of men and women, who still believe that a woman’s role is restricted to her home Page 30

ASIAN TRAVELLER | OCTOBER 2011

Q&A Some choose a career of their interest and succeed in it. While there are others, who take up a job that has come to them and excel in it. The story of Akash Gupta, General Manager, Park Plaza, Coimbatore, could well be categorised into the latter. Through 10 questions, he unfolds several things about his career, hospitality sector, family and his favourite destinations Was hospitality sector a natural option to you? Would you please take us through the early days of your career?

I had absolutely no clue about the hospitality sector, when I decided to take up a career in this fast growing sector. I always wanted to be part of the army or National Defence Academy (NDA), as my forefathers were serving the country as officers with NDA. When it was time for me to opt for a career, like others, I started trying different entrance exams and the only exam I got through was for hotel management.

Akash Gupta General Manager Park Plaza, Coimbatore

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Then, I made up my mind to be part of the hospitality sector and thenceforth I felt I was made for hotels. And, for the last 21 years, I have been part of this sector.

I started my career in 1991, after passing out from IHM Bhubaneswar. My first job was with ITC Maurya Sheraton and I joined them as a steward. It was a great learning experience for me.

As a fresher, I had a hectic schedule, day in and day out and it became order of

the day to get home late and leave to work early. It was the phase of my life, when there was hardly any time to spend with my parents.

I stayed with ITC for about eight months and left them to join Taj Connemara, Chennai, as a trainee captain. At Taj, I got good amount of exposure to all departments and I grew with them. I would say Taj is an organisation, where one can get enough of learning experience, at all levels. At Taj, you are allowed to do things yourself and even if you make a mistake, you can learn from it, as you will get the much needed direction. I stayed with Taj for about eight years, where the growth was phenomenal. I left Taj, as a Banquet Manager, to join Club Mahindras, as a Food and Beverage Manager.

To gain more experience in different areas, I, thereafter, changed jobs a couple of times and I have worked with known names such as The Residency Towers in Chennai and Jaypee Palace in Agra, a high profiled convention centre. I have experience in pre-opening hotels, which I feel is the challenging task in the sector.

In 21 years of career life, have you ever worked abroad?

What, according to you, are the advantages of working overseas?

I have always been in India but it feels to me that working abroad is good to gain a healthy exposure and to know and learn varied systems and procedures, related to the hospitality sector. However, when it comes to financial gains, India is as good as or far better than

foreign countries, especially in today’s time. Gone are the days when people used to fly abroad, for hefty packages.

Now, besides the salary, the working conditions in India are extremely good and impressive. The quality of the hotels are amongst the best in the world and the services cannot be compared to anywhere abroad, as the hotels in India are very service conscious.

Do you mind sharing with us the plans for the Park Plaza Hotel?

Park Plaza is a tie up between Sabari Hotels and Resorts, and Carlson, which has rendered the brand of Park Plaza. This is an uppermid market brand of Carlson and is still new, to the market.

Carlson has plans to upgrade the brand and market it well, in India. The owner of Sabari Hotels and Resorts is coming up with another 120-room hotel in Bangalore and is likely to commence its operations by August 2012.

This would also be a Park Plaza, in times to come. It also has plans to invest in hotels in destinations like Munnar, Madurai, etc., in the next five years. If the plan materialises, the group will have seven properties in its basket.

How do you see the role of a hotel in developing a destination? What should a hotel be doing in this regard?

Hotels are literally coming up everywhere in India and time is not too far when India reaches a level of Singapore or Hong Kong, where all hotels have an average occupancy of about 55-60 per cent, with a constant average room rate of about $100. India is a

ASIAN TRAVELLER | OCTOBER 2011

Q&A booming market and hotels usually play an important role in infrastructure development of an upcoming destination.

When hotels come up in a location, gradually it leads to creation of other facilities like malls, roads, hospitals, schools, etc., in that area. The end result is quality infrastructure in the destination, which in turn brings about a growth in the overall economy of the state.

However, a hotel needs to have a focus and take the initiate to develop a spot into a meetings, incentives, conferences and events (MICE) or leisure destination, taking into account its potential. Then, the hotel should work towards making the destination known for its focus, by providing excellent boarding and lodging facilities, for the guests.

Over a period of time, the destination will be known for its strengths and the hotel will be the main beneficiary.

Would you please share with us the proudest and some of the unforgettable moments in your professional life?

The offer letter from Taj was the proudest moment in my life. In those days, Taj was the best and the ultimate Page 26

and family and it is essential to challenge this view and to move ahead with the changing times. My advice, to the young women is that believe in yourself and your capabilities. Tourism industry is one of the industries where the job offers enough of fun and where the journey itself is rewarding. There are several options within this industry to choose from, so you will be spoilt for choices.

Do you mind disclosing the secret of your success?

Besides believing in yourself and your ability

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destination of every jobseeker, in the hospitality sector. If you were part of Taj, it simply meant your life was secure.

Hence, I did not think twice, before accepting the offer from them. The most unforgettable moment is the Golden Peacock award, for conserving the environment. I got the award, while I was General Manager with the Raintree Hotel, Chennai. I would say that growth I achieved in every position has always been a proud moment. Anyone can climb the ladder of success but one should realise that it is a gradual process and every step of the ladder is a learning experience. The higher you go, the more the responsibility is.

Where would you like to see yourself, say, 10 years from now?

I would definitely want to see myself as a CEO of a group of hotels, managing at least about 25 hotels.

How do you see the growth prospects of Indian hospitality sector?

Hospitality sector in India will see exceptional growth in the next five years, because the industrial growth is good, MNC’s are setting up their operations in the country and new hotel chains are foraying into the sector,

investing time and money.

It will be a buoyant period for the sector, by all means.

The focus, however, will be on the two tier and three tier cities, as the business growth is fast and the government is doing whatever it could, to ensure development of these cities. There will also be a lot of stress on branded chains and hence, it is important for individual hotels to build a good name and a new brand, to sail safely through tough competition. The web would play a very important part and it will be an important tool, in all aspects. So, hotels need to capitalise on this tool, right now onwards.

Would you paint a picture of your family?

My father was with Air Force, so I had my schooling in different locations. We used to move to a new location, in every five years. My mother was a teacher and I have an elder brother, who is a neuro specialist with the Air Force.

My wife works with DHL in Chennai and we have a daughter, who is in the 10th standard. At this age, she has shown interest in interior designing. My wife was my classmate at hotel management college and we are just one of the very few

couples who have got together from college days.

Please tell us about your hobbies and other interests?

Right from my childhood, my hobbies have been odd.

I had the habit of collecting whistles, at one point of time.

Now, I have almost all kinds of whistles with me - from the old times to the latest ones.

I am fond of playing mouth organ and I play it pretty well.

I picked up this skill from my father, who was exceptional in playing mouth organ. I am also interested in cricket. In fact, I have bagged the best batsman award, while playing for Maurya Sheraton.

Tell us about the destination you want to visit and about the favourite tourist spot in India and abroad that you have visited.

I would love to visit Switzerland and I am sure I will be exploring the country in the near future. Favourite destination where I have been to in India is Srinagar and when it comes to overseas destinations, my favourite spot is Singapore.

to excel, you have to be determined and dedicated.

You just have to dare to dream and work towards fulfilling your dream. If you want something, make it happen for youself and this philosophy is the secret of my success.

Will you share with us the proudest moment (till date) in your career?

To me, the proudest moment is not stagnant.

It changes every time I manage to generate successful business for my company. Every occasion, where my hard work leads

to confirmed business, is a proud moment.

How supportive has been your family in building your career?

I was brought up in a small, close-knit, loving and caring family and luckily married into a similar one. At both families, no distinction is made between men and women and women are given equal opportunities and respect. My parents have always been friends to my sister and me and we were encouraged to make our point and get involved in discussions. I am also married

to my best friend. What else can a girl ask for!

Your hobbies?

I love painting and usually spend my spare time, with my paints and canvas. I am also an ardent traveller and try and club my vacations around my business travel. I love cooking and experimenting with different cuisines in the kitchen, in addition to trying out fine dining restaurants all over the world.

ASIAN TRAVELLER | OCTOBER 2011

MALDIVES

Explore the virgin islands If you want to taste heady mixture of secluded serenity, thrilling water sports activities, soothing spas and relaxing beaches, head to Maldives 32

ASIAN TRAVELLER | OCTOBER 2011

MALDIVES Maldives is a place, where you can find thousands of fish swimming around the corals and where you can enjoy balmy mornings, sunlit days, breezy nights and iridescent sunsets

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magine a place, where one can spend one’s vacation as the master of a stunning virgin island, where one can go fishing, swim for recreation, indulge in favourite water sports or do whatever one may want to, as the only person in this beautiful universe! Wondering, if there is such a place on the earth, where one can reach with ease? Yes, if you long to have such a rare experience, fly to Maldives, home to deep blue seas, turquoise reefs, white sandy beaches and palm trees.

Maldives houses about 1190 coral islands in two rows of atolls, spread over around 90000 square kilometres.

ASIAN TRAVELLER | OCTOBER 2011

Atoll is a ring shaped island formed of coral, which surrounds a lagoon.

There are approximately 26 such atolls in Maldives. Each atoll is made of a coral reef encircling a lagoon, with deep channels dividing the reef ring.

Out of the 1190 coral islands, only 200 are inhabited and mere 90 islands are developed as tourist resorts. So, it is easy to find an uninhabited island anywhere in the island city.

It would really be a thrilling experience to explore an island that has not seen a human footprint for a long, long time. Here, one can listen to the undisturbed sounds made by nature,

watch stars in the sky, without a single light on the ground and enjoy tiny lights of phosphorescence get washed up by the beachside, with the wave. A trip to a desert island is an experience of its own.

The trip will be worth, as you can forget everything else and spend your time discovering unspoilt vegetation, blinding beaches and dazzling sunbeamlined waters.

Situated in the Indian Ocean, just across the equator, Maldives is a perfect place to sit on a beach and watch sunset, without any disturbance. The island city is also a geographical marvel and known for dream weather and aqua life. It is a place, where you can find thousands of fish swimming around the corals and where you can enjoy balmy mornings, sunlit days, breezy nights and iridescent sunsets. The average temperature here is 30 degrees celsius throughout the year and the sun is constant on most days.

The country has two distinct seasons in northeast monsoon (dry season) and southwest monsoon (wet season). Dry season falls during January-March, while wet season hits the country in mid May-November.

With almost 99 per cent of Maldives is sea, it is a place where one can have enough of water sports and fun. You can play water polo with friends or family, or surf addictively. Every single resort here has a sports centre that provides a range of water sports activities. These centres are well equipped with masks and snorkels and boards of varying sizes. Some centres even offer courses for beginners and advances windsurfers and sailors. You can spend the day snorkelling, windsurfing or go on a catamaran. Also, one could chose to parasail, kayak, kite-surf, water-ski or jet-ski.

Maldives is popularly known as Mecca to surf enthusiasts from all over the world. If you are passionate about surfing, visit the place during the

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Maldives southwest monsoon, as it brings with it massive swells, the size of which range from three to eight feet. There are several well known surf breaks in north and south Malé Atoll, natural atolls of the Maldives. Resorts near these breaks are perfect for surfing aficionados and one can have full Maldivian experience here, while riding the waves to one’s complete satisfaction.

If one wants to get the enchanting view of over a thousand species of fish and other underwater creatures, including small marine creatures as well as microscopic plant cells that inhabit the Maldivian waters, waste no time to reach any one of the diving coral reef areas.

Just one dive will take you to the water world and then you are in the company of tiny shrimp, groups of colourful swimmers, magnificent mantas and sharks.

Almost all resorts and safari boats offer basic to advanced training in diving. Any diver can enjoy the beauty of Maldivian underwater life, on a drift dive. A dive in a house reef will also be equally rewarding. Dives usually take place along a ‘faru’ (reef), a ‘thila’ (a submerged aquarium like reef, on a channel where the atoll meets the ocean), or on a wreck. Night diving is particularly beautiful and so is a macro dive that will let you see tiny, interesting and usually disregarded creatures, close and personal.

While having enough of sea and beach experience, it is also recommended that you utilise some time to know the

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early history of the country, which is enshrined in myth and legend. Learn the story of the ‘Rannamaari’, a tale about a sea monster, who demanded a virgin sacrifice every full moon, until a brave man from Morocco, Abdul BarakaathUl Barbary, confronted the monster and prohibited him from entering the Maldives. It is also interesting to listen to the story of Bodu Thakurufaanu, who saved Maldives from Portuguese invaders. These stories, while very much anecdotal, are based on the real facts that form the history of the country. Written accounts If you want to taste heady mixture of secluded serenity, thrilling water sports activities, soothing spas and relaxing beaches, head to Maldives If you want to taste heady mixture of secluded serenity, thrilling water sports activities, soothing spas and relaxing beaches, head to Maldives portray a Maldives, whose people have travelled far and wide, adventurers and whose geographical isolation had not limited the boundaries of their world. Even today, Maldives remains very much isolated, but not invisible.

Maldivians are quite open to adaptation and the mixing of cultures is very much seen in its arts. The music played with the local ‘boduberu’ (big-drum) resembles that of African drumming, while ‘dhoni’ (a unique Maldivian sailboat), an art form built with skilled craftsmanship, has significant similarities to the Arabian dhows. The fine artistry of Maldivians, seen in the intricate details on wooden

Maldives is also one of the best destinations for honeymooning, if it is meant to be a celebration of love in an intimate, secluded and most importantly, beautiful setting

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MALDIVES

beams in its antique mosques, represents the skills that the country has gained from South-East Asian architecture.

Then, the distinct geometric designs used in mats woven from local materials, the embroidered neckline of women’s traditional dresses and their ornaments are a beauty to behold.

The best way to experience the life of an ordinary Maldivian is to travel to an inhabited island. Some of these islands are slightly modern but there are also fishing villages, with lots of tree-shade, swings and the traditional wooden ‘holhuashi’. A holhuashi is similar to an island-version of a gazebo, built with hollow wooden trunks tied together forming the large, bench-like seat and often with a thatched roof. They are conveniently set up on beaches, often where the boats come in, and it is a place where islanders wind off after a day’s work.

Fishing is the main hobby of Maldivians. To experience the satisfaction of catching and cooking fish, go for a night reef fishing trip (offered by a lot of resorts). The boat leaves before the sunset to find a good spot near a reef.

The boat crew will show you how to use the lines, hooks and sinkers. You can

ASIAN TRAVELLER | OCTOBER 2011

catch enough fish to fill your barbecue grill, in about an hour’s time.

Maldives is also one of the best destinations for honeymooning, if it is meant to be a celebration of love in an intimate, secluded and most importantly, beautiful setting. There are endless ways to let the magic of the islands dazzle you. For instance, plan a candle light dinner under the stars, a daring getaway to a nearby uninhabited island, or just laze around in your private bungalow, watching the endless turquoise waters.

You could also opt for a swim around a house reef, with a mask and fin, or dive among the beautiful, vibrant reefs. It will surely be an experience you will relive for years. It is also recommended that you take a night fishing trip. And you are unlikely to forget the amazing boat trip you make at sunset.

Another major attraction for the honeymooners is Ithaa Restaurant, the first underwater restaurant of its kind in the world. Situated 15 feet below the waves of the Indian Ocean, the restaurant is surrounded by a coral reef and encased in clear acrylic, offering diners 270 degrees of panoramic underwater views. The restaurant is reached by a wooden walkway from the nearby over-

The country is popularly known as Mecca to surf enthusiasts from all over the world. Visit the island during southwest monsoon, for the best surfing experience

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MALDIVES

water Sunset Grill Restaurant, and seats 14 people, for exclusive dining with a real difference. The restaurant serves contemporary fusion Maldivian cuisine, with Western and Asian touch. This underwater restaurant is at the Conrad Maldives Rangali Island. With plenty of offerings and options, Maldives has in it everything that is required to turn your honeymoon, a memorable experience.

Once in Maldives, it is a must to explore Malé, its capital city. Malé is known for its artificial beach, swimming track, historic sites and a spectacular skyline of candy coloured skyscrapers.

It is now a world-class city, with all the modern facilities. Major attractions in and around Malé include the Hukuru Miskiyy (Friday Mosque) built in 1656, Mulee-aage (the current Presidential

residence), Islamic Centre that was built in 1984, Sultan Park and National Museum, artificial beach and swimming track. Malé’s surf point Raalhugandu and the artificial beach usually come to life in the late afternoons and evenings, as hundreds of people come out to relax and enjoy the fresh sea air. The surf-huts overlooking Raalhugandu, built by local surfers and residents of neighbouring houses, provide a vantage point for watching the waves. Whether you are there to see the surfers expertly guide their boards over the waves, or the strong curls of the waves, the sight will not disappoint you.

Malé is also a shopping paradise, as it hosts a wide range of shops that sell every imaginable goods. It is also a good place to eat out, as its restaurants

Visit Ithaa Restaurant, the first underwater restaurant of its kind in the world, for a rare and unique experience

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offer menus ranging from Thai, Italian, Indian and other international, regional and local cuisines. For a truly Maldivian dining experience, try fish, preferably while listening to the waves at a waterfront restaurant. It is also advisable to try food from Sai-Hotaas (teashops).

Normally, Sai-Hotaas serve ‘short-eats’, a variety of (often deep fried) sweet and savoury finger-food, mostly fish and coconut based, as well as local bread ‘roshi’, to be eaten with a variety of side dishes.

Before packing your bags from Maldives, visit one of its spas. The types of treatments vary with each spa, but you can get almost any world-class treatment, in a Maldivian spa. Every Maldivian resort has a spa. Some of them are nestled deep within thick vegetation, while others in solitude on a wooden jetty built on the lagoon. Here you can get to know the power of Maldivian virgin coconut oil message and the traditional sand massage.

Maldives, though isolated in location, is easily accessible from anywhere in South-East Asia, Middle East and Europe. The Malé International Airport is mere fifteen minutes from Malé. The airport is small, but well-equipped with souvenir and duty-free shops, restaurants, medical facilities and banking and postal services. The airport is accessible via Malé, on a dhoni ferry.

The airport island also houses the fivestar Hulhule Island Hotel. Tourists are issued a 30-day visa on arrival. A valid travel document is necessary. You can obtain circumstantial visa grants through the Department of Immigration and Emigration in Malé.

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IN FOCUS

Star of Destiny Most of the successful men were not born with a silver spoon in their mouth. And so was the destiny of Rajashekharan Nair, MD, RR Holiday Homes. Though now a successful hotelier, with a couple of awards in his kitty, he had to fight odds to reach where he is now. Know him more

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ovalam would not have turned into an international tourist hot spot, had heroic expeditions of a few, who braved against all odds to realise their personal dreams in their native place, would not have culminated in setting up a strong hospitality sector in this beach destination.

And, as ‘destiny’ would have it, Rajashekharan Nair was part of that heroic expedition. He has played an important role in the development of Kovalam by setting up Uday Samudra Leisure Beach Hotel and turning it into a 365 days destination. The journey, however, was not a cakewalk.

There are men, whose lives are meant to create history through the ways and means that they have chosen to make a living. The story of Rajashekharan Nair is one such. His tryst with destiny began at the tender age of 17. The journey he took without a penny and a vision was the turning point in his life. It was the financial capital of India, which had scripted the fortunes of many, that turned Rajashekharan Nair from a penniless man, into a star of destiny and a prominent name in the hospitality sector. After learning the ins and outs of the life in the hospitality sector, he embarked on building his own space in the sector.

After cementing his place in Mumbai, he returned to Kerala. If the destiny had forced Rajashekharan Nair to go to Mumbai penniless, it was with grit and determination that he returned to Kerala. His hardships and episodes of life in Mumbai had taught him many lessons and turned him into a man of clear vision. The story of UDS begins here…

Today, with over three decades of experience in the hospitality sector and several accomplished projects to his credit, Rajashekharan Nair can well be regarded as a synonymous for success. He operates four hotels in Mumbai, under Nair Estate

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ASIAN TRAVELLER | OCTOBER 2011

IN FOCUS

and Hotels and one brand in Kerala, under RR Holiday Homes. Having established UDS Kovalam as a preferred destination for travellers across the globe, moves are now on to build his space in God’s own country’s hospitality sector, with a new project at Shankumugham and eyeing destinations such as Alleppey and Wagamon, to launch new projects. “My idea is to sell my products as part of Kerala package, to the travellers,” Rajashekharan Nair explains his business strategy, with a smiling face.

He also has taken an English pub on lease for 10 years. “The pub will be converted into a restaurant, bar and office. The renovation work is on and is likely to be completed soon,” he informs.

By venturing into the education and flight catering fields, Rajashekharan Nair has already made clear his intentions to diversify his business into different horizons. One of the major projects in the pipeline is a convention centre, with a capacity to accommodate more than 2000 people, at Kowdiar, near the golf club, Thiruvananthapuram. Next in line is a catering college in the capital city of Kerala.

Even though his eyes are set on expanding his business empire, family comes first to Rajashekharan Nair and then, business. He is married to Radha Nair, a famous and admired actress of yesteryear south Indian cinema. Their daughter Karthika Nair has worked in some of the new

age films and has been able to make her mark in the south Indian film industry.

Their son, who is in the 11th standard, has shown his interest in the hospitality sector, already and is planning to pursue a career in this field.

Their youngest daughter is in the ninth standard. “I feel proud to say that I have never missed their vacations or birthdays,” Rajashekharan Nair takes no efforts to conceal his love and affection to his family.

Awards and Recognitions World Luxury Hotel Award, 2010 and 2011 Kerala Tourism Award for Best Product, 2009 Kerala Tourism Award for Best Four Star Hotel, 2009

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IN FOCUS

Finest in Kovalam

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ith its sleek and stylish design, Uday Samudra Leisure Beach Hotel is nothing less than a golden feather in the cap of Kovalam beach. Located just 15 metres from the sea, this four star hotel can well be categorised into a destination in itself.

Its philosophy of combining the best elements of incomparable lifestyle, with the convenience of today’s modern world through exceptional standards of luxury, elegance and services, is well reflected in its products and services and has put the Uday Samudra Beach Hotel, popularly known as UDS, at the top position, in Kovalam. What is more noteworthy about UDS Kovalam is the international flair it sports.

Overlooking the sea front, UDS Kovalam is characterised by the charming coconut grove. Adding to its attraction are the pool and the beach side dining facilities. This intimate, modern beach side hotel offers majestic views and relaxed luxury. Everything at UDS Kovalam, the setting, facilities, people, spa, cuisine and its whole philosophy, is dedicated to your personal wellness, in a luxurious environment. Since the landscaping has its own serenity,

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as it features harmony of a defined architecture, spacious lawns, blue water pools and soaring coconut groves, you can feel your stresses starting to flutter away. What else you need to make your holiday experience a relaxed affair?

“We believe that true world-class status is only achieved, when a hotel or resort combines the traditions of its host community, with exceptional

service, luxurious living conditions and incredible attention to detail. This distinction has elevated UDS Kovalam into the upper rank of hotels for sophisticated travellers, from around the globe,” beams a modest Rajashekharan Nair, MD, RR Holiday Homes, which owns UDS Kovalam.

Spread across in four acres by the sea, UDS Kovalam is noted for the tranquil atmosphere it offers to the guests. This beach side hotel comes with 203 units of accommodation facilities and they comprise three Presidential Suites, Deluxe Suites, Suites, Exotica Atrium and Exotica units. Each unit is beautifully appointed, spacious and decorated with an excellent view of the sea, swimming pool and garden.

Christened Marigold, Hibiscus and Bougainvillea, UDS Kovalam’s three Presidential Suites are exquisitely finished and offer a breathtaking view and a list of unmatched facilities. They come with a large living and a dining area, a separate guest restroom, a reception area and a spacious balcony facing the sea. All rooms are equipped with modern communication amenities, mini bar and Jacuzzi, adding more

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IN FOCUS spice to the luxurious stay at the UDS’ Presidential Suites. While its Deluxe Suite rooms are air conditioned, luxuriously finished and supplied with branded amenities, its Suite rooms are known for their elegant Scandinavian designs and classic décor.

If you are the one, who likes to be away from the crowd, then opt Exotica Atrium, which offer panoramic view of the swimming pool and backwaters, for the accommodation. Situated in an eco friendly zone and near to the pool side dining facility, these rooms are priced in the medium range. You also have another option in Exotica, for your stay at UDS Kovalam. It offers premium accommodation, where you can enjoy an unhindered view of the sea and the pool.

To offer a pleasant stay, UDS Kovalam has in it a number of multicuisine restaurants, offering a lavish and an elaborate à la carte and buffet spreads for breakfast, lunch, dinner and special occasions. At the restaurants you can savour your delicious food listening to the live band. One option for dining is Café Charlie, UDS’ exclusive western model coffee shop. This coffee shop offers a variety of European culinary delights, in a casual and intimate setting.

Here, you can dine outdoors, enjoying panoramic views and fresh sea breezes.

At UDS Kovalam, you can also dine at its multi-cuisine restaurant Grass Hopper, discovering the exotic blend of Chinese, Continental, Italian, Mughal and Kerala cuisines, in a traditional ambience. Set in a lively atmosphere, the restaurant offers all kinds of culinary delights. Grass Hopper also provides the view of the gleaming swimming pool, surrounding green lawn and bewitching beach beyond.

If sea food is your craving, head to Aqua Marine, for a sea food fiesta. Aqua Marine serves a host of mouth-watering Kerala sea food delicacies and here you can savour delicious prawns, shrimps, cuttlefish and lobsters. UDS Kovalam also houses a lounge, its snack-bar that serves pizza, burger, sandwich, etc., and a grill, its unique restaurant that serves sea food grills and continental delicacies.

Other than quality accommodation and dining options, UDS Kovalam also offers ample infrastructure to make your stay at the hotel a memorable one.

It is in fact the only hotel in the God’s

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own country with three magnificent swimming pools facing the sea. The pool side sunken bar will allow you to enjoy your drinks, while utilising the pool to your taste.

To cater to the growing need for wellness/health tourism, UDS Kovalam houses an Ocean Spa, an Ayur Ashram, a health club and a beauty parlour.

At Ocean Spa, you can experience the soothing natural and traditional techniques of Thai healing, while Ayur Ashram provides all the ageold techniques of ayurveda, including ayurvedic massage, herbal treatments

and rejuvenation therapy, in a traditional and salubrious ambience. Its health club is equipped with the most modern equipment and trained staff and you are sure to have a good time, here. For those who want to have a facial, head to its beauty parlour and choose from a variety of herbal and gold facials, and skin care treatments.

Before flying back to your native place, do not forget to shop at the Lexmi Gems and Crafts at UDS, where you can find a huge collection of Indian handicrafts, gems, jewelleries, garments, etc. You can shop for silver jewellery, sandal wood, white wood, bronze items, silk, paintings, paper paintings, silver articles, pashmina shawls, readymade garments, handloom bed covers, silk scarves, etc., at an affordable price.

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COLUMN

V Duraikkannan

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All of us might have heard names like Andy Grove (cofounder of Intel), Bill Gates (co-founder of Microsoft), Vint Cerf (one of the fathers of the internet) and late Steve Jobs (co-founder of Apple), at least once in our life. However, how many of us do know anything about Jean Bartik, Marty Goetz, Ted Nelson and Ray Tomlinson? They are respectively the ENIAC’s computer programmer, holder of the first ever software’s patent, creator of the hypertext and the man who put ‘at’ (@) in the e-mail address first!

As with the people, there are also unheard, unsung stories of places as well. All of us know about Taj Mahal, Niagara Falls, Eiffel Tower and Genting Island. But, have we ever heard of places like Baba Budangiri, Endicott, Gretna Green, Lumbini and Chomolungma?

I think, October is the apt month to raise this issue because we have just celebrated the World Tourism Day (WTD) on September 27. This particular date was chosen to celebrate tourism worldwide, as it was on this date in 1970 that United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) adopted its statutes. The World Tourism Day is celebrated worldwide since 1980, with a theme. The theme for this year’s WTD was ‘Tourism – Linking Cultures’.

Various reports indicate that 940 million tourists have travelled to different countries in 2010 alone. They probably have visited known places and come into direct contact with tangible and intangible traditions and culture. However, have they come across lesser known and unsung places and facts? Now, let me introduce some of the unexplored destinations, which hold lots of tourism potential.

Baba Budangiri, situated 28 kilometres north of Chilkmagalur in Karnataka, is the birthplace of coffee in India. It was Baba Budan, a 17th century Sufi, who

introduced coffee in the country. He is believed to have brought seven live beans all the way to India, on his return journey from pilgrimage to Mecca via Mocha in Yemen (‘the famous mocha coffee’). With a height of around 1895 meters, Baba Budangiri is known for its shrine, which is frequented by both Hindus and Muslims.

Chilkmagalur is one of the attractions around Baba Budangiri.

In Kannada the term ‘Chikmagalur’ means ‘younger daughter’s town’.

The place is said to have been given as a dowry to the younger daughter of Rukmangada, the legendary

chief of Sakrepatna. The present Chikmagalur houses Hiremagalur, which has been given to the elder daughter of Rukmangada. Until recently, Hiremagalur was a separate village. The term Hiremagalur means bigger or elder daughter’s town.

Another important place is Endicott. It is a village in Broome County, New York, USA. Endicott was once known as the IBM Town. IBM was born here and at one point of time everyone at Endicott was an IBM employee.

Next in line is Gretna Green, a village in the south of Scotland. It is one of the world’s most popular

wedding destinations, hosting over 5000 weddings each year.

One of every six marriages happening here is Scottish wedding. Gretna’s famous ‘runaway marriages’ began in 1753, when Lord Hardwicke’s Marriage Act was passed

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COLUMN in England. The new act stated that if both parties to a marriage were not at least 21 years old, then parents had to consent to the marriage. This act, however, did not apply in Scotland, where it was possible for boys to marry at 14 and girls at 12 years, with or without parental consent. Many elopers fled England and the first Scottish village they encountered was Gretna Green. Thus born a new marriage concept called ‘Gretna Green Marriage’!

Then, there are a couple of countries, including India, associated with Buddha and Buddhism. Bihar, the 12th largest and the third most populous state of India, derives its very name from the word ‘Vihara’ or ‘Vihar’.

The ‘Viharas’ were the abodes of the Buddhist monks in the ancient and medieval India.

Most of the places associated with Buddha, except Lumbini, are in India.

Bodh Gaya in Bihar, on the banks of the river Falgu, is the place, where Buddha attained enlightenment, while Rajgir (‘Rajgriha’ means the royal household or palace) is where Buddha held his sermons and converted people into his followers. Kushinagar, named after one of the two sons of Lord Rama, Kusa (Lava and Kusa are the two sons of Lord Rama), is the place in Uttar Pradesh, where Buddha breathed last.

Sarnath, one of the four holy Buddhist sites, is in Uttar

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Pradesh, India. Sarnath is a collapsed form of the name Sarangnath which means ‘Lord of the Deer’.

It relates to another old Buddhist story in which a Bodhisattva (an enlightened young man) is a deer and offers his life to a king, instead of the doe the latter is planning to kill. The king is so moved that he creates the park as a sanctuary for deer.

The deer park is still there today.

The fourth site is Lumbini, which is in Nepal now. It was the place where Buddha was born in 563BCE and lived his first 29 years. ‘Lumbini’

is Sanskrit for ‘the lovely’ – a most fitting description for the place where one of the

loveliest souls took his birth!

Another destination is Chomolungma – it is the original Tibetan name for the Mount Everest. In Tibetan it means, ‘holy mother’ and the Nepalese call it ‘Sagarmatha’ which means ‘mother of the universe’.

It is good to take the road less travelled!

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SERENDIB

Delve deeply into Kandy N

Travel to Kandy, cultural capital of Sri Lanka, to take a pilgrim tour to its Buddhist temples and Hindu shrines, and a leisure trip to its stunning gardens and picturesque mountain ranges 44

estled between the Knuckles Mountain ranges and the Hanthana Mountain ranges, the picturesque Kandy deserves to find a place in your itinerary, if you ever plan a trip to Sri Lanka. Popularly known as the cultural capital of Lanka, in Kandy you can delve into the cultural heritage of the island and take a journey back into its compelling history.

Came into existence in the 15th century, Kandy is also a significant destination as the last royal capital, where 2500 years of royal rule came to an end. Located at an altitude of about 488 metres from the sea level and at a distance of around 115 kilometres from Colombo, Kandy is home to tourist attractions such as Temple of Tooth, Lankatilaka Temple, Gadaladeniya Temple, Embekke Temple, Old Royal Palace, Peradeniya Gardens, Knuckle Mountains, Hanthana Mountains and Udawatte Kele.

It is interesting to trace down the history of Kandy, which was at one point of time known as ‘Senkadagalapura’ (named after a hermit Senkada, who lived there). Most Sinhalese call it ‘Mahanuwara’, meaning the great city. The present name Kandy was coined by the colonial rulers and it has its origin in the Sinhala word ‘Kanda’, which means a hill. The city was a stronghold of the Sinhalese kings, who promoted and protected the local culture for a long period. However, the city fell into the hands of British in 1815.

From the stronghold of the Sinhalese kings, Kandy has today grown into a bustling

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SERENDIB

commercial city. In the hills around Kandy, there are several temples, all famed for their distinctive architecture, murals and carving of the late-medieval period. Going by the number of Buddhist temples and Hindu shrines in the city, Kandy is also a place for pilgrim travel. To start with, the Temple of Tooth, which is also known as Dalada Maligawa, is one of the most sacred Buddhist pilgrimage sites in the world.

Built in the 17th century, this UNESCO world heritage site is the place, where Buddha’s one of the teeth is kept. If you like to enter the temple, it is important that you stick to the dress code. For instance, those wearing short trousers will not be allowed inside the temple.

What is expected of you is to wear a decent attire, covering upper part of the body and below knee length pants or skirts. Recently, a golden canopy has been added to the temple, which is known for its architectural beauty.

The best time to visit the Temple of Tooth is during the Kandy Perahera, a cultural pageant that is held in July or August, every year. It is the most colourful processions in the world, where thousands of drummers and dancers accompany ornamented elephants. The leading elephant carries the sacred

tooth relic of Lord Buddha and the devotees pay homage to it. The procession moves along the streets for seven consecutive nights and concludes on the day of the August full moon.

Adjacent to the Temple of Tooth are the three of the four major Hindu shrines in Kandy, dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Natha and Goddess Pattini, respectively.

Once you complete the tour

The best time to visit the Temple of Tooth is during the Kandy Perahera, a cultural pageant that is held in July or August, every year. It is the most colourful processions in the world, featuring thousands of drummers, dancers and ornamented elephants

ASIAN TRAVELLER | OCTOBER 2011

to the Temple of Tooth, head to the shrines, which testify that Tamils and Sinhalese have co-existed here for a long time. The forth shrine, the Kataragama shrine, is located further towards the town and it is known for its wooden columns, with exquisitely carved panels.

Gadaladeniya Temple is another major attraction for both the pilgrims and leisure travellers. Built on a flat rock top, the temple is situated at a distance of about 15 kilometres from the town. The temple, which is known for its Dravidian architecture, provides a spectacular view of the surrounding countryside. One of the main architects of the temple was Ganesvarachari, a south Indian. Said to be built

by King Buwanekabahu IV, the main shrine room of the temple houses four standing Buddha images and a statue of seated Buddha, under a Makara Thorana.

Other major temples in Kandy are Embekke Temple and Lankatilaka Temple. While Embekke Temple is famous for its intricate wooden carvings, Lankatilaka Temple is built on the summit of a rock called Panhalgala. The wooden carvings at Embekke Temple depict dancers, musicians, wrestlers, legendary beasts

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SERENDIB and birds. Ruins of an ancient rest house with pillars carved in stone can be found nearby the temple. Visiting Lankatilaka Temple will be worth an experience, as from here you can have a magnificent panoramic view of the surrounding hills, paddy fields and the diverse vegetation around it.

The city also houses a couple of Buddhist temples, including Malwaththa and Asgiri temples, located on the shores of the lake. Besides the

housed in it, to get the first hand account of the trees and plants used in the traditional ayurvedic medicine. The garden is said to be built during the reign of King Vikrama Bahu III. Kandy is also a place, where you can be with the nature. Take a journey to Knuckle and Hanthana Mountains, to enjoy rivulets and streams. What makes Knuckle Mountain ranges, which houses as many as 35 peaks, unique is the

options for pilgrim travel, the cultural capital of Sri Lanka also has in it myriad other attractions such as the Royal Botanical Gardens. With its numerous tropical foliage, Royal Botanical Gardens, Peradeniya, is one of the best gardens in the island. Here, you can find Orchid House, featuring more than 300 varieties of exquisite orchids.

Also, visit the spice garden

geographical character of its location and its rich fauna and flora. These mountain ranges are also ideal destinations for the trekkers.

A tour to Kandy is never complete, without stopping at the Old Royal Compound.

Chambers of the royal palace are nice specimen of Kandyan wooden architecture.

So, explore the old royal palace, quarters of the royal

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concubines, queen’s chambers, the council chambers and the armoury. Before packing your bags from Kandy, make sure that you also shop for exquisite handicrafts. You can find all varieties of Sri Lankan arts and crafts, here. Kandyan Art Association is the perfect place, to buy souvenirs. Also, visit Kundasale village, to watch craftsmen at work and purchase their works, on site.

Kandy is also a place, where you can be with the nature. Take a journey to Knuckle and Hanthana Mountains, to enjoy rivulets and streams Photo Courtesy: Suraj Khan, Director, Business Development, Unimondo

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KARNATAKA TRAVELLER

Camp out in jungles

Now, it’s time to plan an exciting holiday camp, to experience and appreciate alluring wilderness spread across Karnataka, says Ashok G S

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o lure more budget oriented tourists, Karnataka Tourism has launched Jungle Camps and Trails (JCT) in 10 locations spread across this southern state of India. Each camp is uniquely situated in a different forest ecosystem and provides a different ambience.

The new programme complements the Karnataka government’s another initiative, the Jungle Lodges and Resorts programme, aimed at attracting top-end eco-tourists to the state.

Jungle Camps and Trails

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is sure to provide authentic eco-tourism experiences to the travellers, as jungle camps will offer visitors an opportunity to explore, experience and appreciate various beautiful wilderness, spread across Karnataka. The camps provide comfortable accommodation and a number of eco activities, including cave explorations, hornbill safari, butterfly trail, herbal trail, nature walks, machan night-outs, river rafting, trekking, bird-watching and boating.

Now, it is upon the travellers to select among Jogimatti Nature Camp, Castle Rock Adventure Camp, Muthodi Trogon Camp, Aanejhari Butterfly Camp, Seetanadi Herpeto Camp, Bhagawati Herbal Camp, Gopinatham Country Camp, Anshi Evergreen Camp, Kulagi Timber Trails Camp and Sakrebyle Elephant Camp that are on offer under the JCT programme, to take home sweet memories and

adventure experiences of camping out in jungles that are part of the picturesque Western Ghats.

Situated at the foothills of the Jogimatti Reserve Forest near Chitradurga town, Jogimatti Nature Camp is the best choice available to experience the scrub forests and the plains. Apart from camping and bird watching, the camp will also provide an opportunity for one to trek the

famous Chitradurga Fort and Jogimatti Peak.

However, for the adventure lovers, who are passionate about mountain biking and other such activities, Castle Rock Adventure Camp that is located on the Karnataka-Goa border is the ideal option.

The camp offers an adventure activity zone and one can trek the Kuveshi Point and Doodhsagar Falls.

For the adventure lovers, who are passionate about mountain biking and other such activities, Castle Rock Adventure Camp is the best bet

ASIAN TRAVELLER | OCTOBER 2011

KARNATAKA TRAVELLER Ardent bird-watchers can, without any hesitation, head straight to the Muthodi Trogon Camp, which is situated near the Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary, 34 kilometres from Chikmagalur.

Besides treks, one can also enjoy jungle safaris here at the bird watcher’s paradise.

Karnataka Tourism also offers one more option for bird-watchers in Aanejhari Butterfly Camp. Located just five kilometres from the famous Kollur Mookambika Temple, this camp is a perfect place for watching butterflies.

Here, among other things, one can also enjoy nature trails, canopy walks, machan nightouts, etc.

Then, if you are the one longing for a unique and a rare camping experience, Seetanadi Herpeto Camp is the place for you. Famous for flying lizards and amphibians, this camp is situated in the Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary near Hebri town.

The camp also provides avenues for river rafting in Seeta River and trekking.

For travellers who are particular about trekking a peak, going on a safari in the forest, roaming freely around the herbal trail and spending the night in a machan at the camp, Karnataka Tourism has set up Bhagawati Herbal

Camp. Nestled in the hill ranges of the Kudremukh National Park, this camp is situated nine kilometres from Kudremukh, on the KalasaKarkala road. Be part of this camp and trek Kurinjal Peak, enjoying the picturesque beauty of the place.

To tread the paths traversed by the late forest brigand Veerappan, visit Gopinatham Country Camp and explore its mystery trails. The camp is in the Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary, Gopinatham village, about 34 kilometres from Malemadeshwara Hills and it provides excellent opportunities for birdwatching tours, nature walks, mountain biking (to Hogenakal Falls) and village tours.

Another option for camping can be found in Anshi Evergreen Camp that is situated in the evergreen forests of Anshi National Park, on the Belgaum-Karwar highway. For a first-hand experience of evergreen forests, mountain biking, trekking and machan night-outs, this camp is the best bet.

Kulagi Timber Trails Camp is yet another offering under the JCT programme and this camp is ideal for jungle safari, hornbill safari, cave

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exploration treks and timber trails. Four out of six hornbill species can be sighted here at any time of the year. The camp is located in the Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary.

Though the JCT initiative offers several locations for camping, the main attraction is Sakrebyle Elephant Camp.

Situated 12 kilometres from Shimoga on Tirthahalli road, in this camp one can have

close encounters with captive elephants. The camp also provides avenues for herbal trail, trekking and boating.

“Jungle Camps and Trails is our new initiative in and around eco-tourism destinations spread across the picturesque Western Ghats in southern Karnataka. The programme is targeted at low budget tourists and it will cover isolated beaches, dense tropical forests, hill stations, rivers and wildlife sanctuaries,” says, K Viswanatha Reddy, Director, Department of Tourism, Government of Karnataka.

The tourism department

has spent more than Rs10 crore to build infrastructure and facilities for the tourists at the locations identified for JCT. Each camp charges a nominal fee which will take care of breakfast, lunch, dinner, tea, safari, trekking, trailing and boating charges.

The state government has allotted a total of Rs 248 crore to promote tourism in the state during 2011-2012.

And, JCT is one of the golden opportunities for the budget oriented travellers to get to know and enjoy Karnataka’s wilderness and major attractions around each camp.

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GUJARAT TRAVELLER

A hill with a view For all who love to have a relaxed holiday experience at a densely wooded picturesque hill station, Jagadish Narayan N gets the details of Saputara, a planned hill city in Gujarat

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perfect weekend is anybody’s dream.

And, what on earth can be compared to a relaxed time at a hill station, known for its lush green landscape, thick forests, scattered fields, small tribal villages and rivulets, where you can listen to the chirping of birds, rustling of leaves and rushing streams, and live in the world of your imagination? That is why Saputara, a densely wooded picturesque hill station situated in the Dang forest area of the Sahyadri range, Gujarat, is a dream destination for a weekend getaway. If you visit Gujarat, see to it that you visit this planned hill city, to be with the nature, to experience its pleasant climate, to forget everything else and immerse yourself in the spectacular views of sunset and sunrise, to take a boat cruise, to journey on the ropeway to enjoy beautiful views of the hills, to stroll through the gardens, to shop from the artist village and to go on a wildlife tour.

Situated at an altitude of around 1000 metres and about 170 kilometres from Surat, approximately 80 kilometres from Nasik and nearly four kilometres from Maharashtra border, Saputara has in it all the basic amenities required to provide you a delightful vacation, in the cosiness of a hill station. This holiday spot derives its name from the snake god revered by its tribal population and you can spot the snake sculpture on the banks of Sarpagana River, which flows through

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the town. The very name Saputara literally stands for ‘abode of serpent’ and the snake sculpture is worshiped by the local tribes, during the festivals like Holi. Coincide your visit to this hill station with one of the festivals in the region and you can take home sweet memories of traditional dances performed by the tribes, wearing bamboo and wooden masks.

You can visit this hill station at any time of the year, thanks to the cool and cosy climate and experience the thrill of exploring the dark dense forests. Even during the summer, climate is usually pleasant and the temperature does not exceed 27 degree celsius.

Once you are in Saputara, set out to Saputara Lake, which is about two kilometres

away from the hill station.

This manmade artificial lake is a secluded and calm picnic point, where one can enjoy boat cruises. You can opt for either paddle or row boats.

Set against the exuberant greenery, the lake offers a serene atmosphere, where you can spend quality time with your family. There are a number of children’s park and playgrounds close to the lake, providing you an opportunity

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GUJARAT TRAVELLER of flora and fauna is simply inexplicable and that is what Vansda National Park will provide you with. Before returning to the hill station, stop at Gira waterfall, to add colour to your trip. This waterfall is alive only during monsoon season.

Another attraction in and around Saputara is Purna

Set out to Saputara Lake, a secluded and calm picnic point, to enjoy boat cruises to sit and relax on the banks of the lake, while children have wonderful time at the parks.

If you are particular about taking boat cruises, the best time to visit this hill station is during monsoon season.

Also, make sure that you visit sunrise and sunset points. A leisure walk towards the direction of Waghai, will take you to the sunrise point, from where you can have the bird’s eye view of the dawn - awesome view of the rising sun. You can visit this point at any time of the day, to get a panoramic view of the entire hill station.Then, for a spectacular view of the setting sun, you need to get to the sunset point. From here, you can have a breathtaking view of vast spans of Dang forest and an aerial view of distant villages in forest.

Some hotels in the valley arrange a ten minutes ride on the ropeway, to the sunset point.

You can spot a number of gardens in and around this hill station. The most attractive of them is the rose garden, which sports several varieties of roses. There is also a step garden, a garden set up in steps, and a lake view garden that is situated on the banks of Saputara Lake.

The gardens are well

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maintained and will offer you a relaxing time.

Depending on the duration of your stay at this hill station, you can plan a visit to Vansda National Park, which is spread over an area of 24 square kilometres, on the banks of Ambika River. Lovely valleys, small streams and thick woodlands render the park beautiful and make it a place worth visiting. Maintained by the government of Gujarat, this park is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna.

Its deciduous forest has in it bamboos, tall teak trees, orchids, mangroves and

gigantic creepers. There is a botanical garden and it is sure to grab your attention.

Named after the royal family of the Vansdas, this national park is also a place where tigers, leopards, fourhorned antelope, pangolin, rusty-spotted cats, mongooses, barking deer and giant squirrel, etc., roam freely.

For bird-watchers, the park is a must visit, as it is home to great black woodpecker, Malabar trogon, sunbirds, grey hornbill, emerald dove, racket-tailed drongo, paradise flycatcher, etc. The thrill of watching an amazing variety

sanctuary, a trekkers paradise with bamboo lined pathways.

Situated at Mahal, about 60 kilometres north of Dang forest area, Purna reportedly has the thickest forest cover in the state.

To have another unique experience visit Gandharvapur Artist Village.

Here, you can shop for fine pieces of pottery, jewellery, vases, paintings, pen stands and key chains, all made from bamboo chips and other locally found materials. The craftsmen here will even teach you make some simple gift items.

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MANIPUR TRAVELLER

The floating park Krishnadas P takes a journey through the Keibul Lamjao National Park,the first and the only floating national park in the world, in an effort to provide a clear picture of its specialities and offerings

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very Indian state has a special place that people are drawn to for different reasons. In Manipur, that place is Keibul Lamjao National Park. If your notion of national parks is limited by the run of the mill parks that you have often visited in the past, then a visit to the Keibul Lamjao National Park gives you an opportunity to add something new to your knowledge and wandering repository.

Spread over an area of 40 square kilometres, the park is considered to be the first and the only floating national park in the world. The main attraction of the park is

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‘phumdi’, the floating mass of entangled vegetation that is formed by the accumulation of organic debris and biomass, with soil. Another attraction of the park is Loktak Lake, the largest fresh water lake in India. In fact, a large portion of the lake falls within the park. Loktak Lake provides a picturesque backdrop to the entire action and a visit to this park provides a unique opportunity to explore hitherto unseen secrets.

Besides a natural habitat for the Sangai or brow antlered deer, the park is also home to a variety of animal and bird species. Established in 1966 as a sanctuary, Keibul Lamjao

was conferred the national park status in 1977.

The brow antlered deer is also known as the Manipur’s dancing deer, thanks to its delicate gait as it negotiates its way along the floating wetlands. Identified as one of the rarest animal species in the entire world, Sangai can well be regarded as the apple of the Manipur’s eyes. Talk of Manipur and one of the first things to introduce the state is the brow antlered deer. And then follow Polo, its classical dance, sports and films.

Keibul Lamjao National Park is reportedly the last natural habitat of Sangai. A glimpse of the deer in this unique

wetland ecosystem is a must, for any wildlife enthusiast.

Based on a popular folk legend, Sangai is interpreted as the binding soul between humans and the nature. The slaying of the brow antlered deer, an unpardonable sin, is conceived as the breaking up of the cordial relationship between humans and the nature. When humans love and respect the Sangai, it is tantamount to respecting the nature. The brow antlered deer was first discovered in Manipur in 1839 and is now its state animal. The best time to see the brow antlered deer is December-January and March-April.

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MANIPUR TRAVELLER Besides Sangai, you can also find species such as slow loris, spotted linsang, clouded leopard, the rare fishing cat, rhesus monkey and Nongin, the state bird of Manipur, at the park. If you visit the park during November-March, you can spot hog deer, otter and a host of water fowls and migratory birds. Extremely rare wild cats like the marbled cat and Temminck’s golden cat may be sighted occasionally. If you are lucky enough, you can also watch the Himalayan black bear and the Malayan bear, foraging for food.

Keibul Lamjao National Park is a must visit for bird-watchers, as it is home to the hooded crane, black eagle, shaheen falcon, eastern white stork, bamboo partridge and green peafowl.

One can also track down

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brown hornbill, rufous-necked hornbill, wreathed hornbill, etc., in the park. The list of reptiles in the park includes wide range of tortoise, lizards, water cobra,python, etc.

Here, you can also find the rare and endangered species of python, molurus.

To cater to the needs of travellers, the Forest Department maintains watch towers and two rest houses

within the park, which remains open from October to May. Visits are possible up to May, though the lake shrinks

by almost a third, because of evaporation caused by the summer heat. Beyond May, heavy monsoon hits Loktak, making visits extremely difficult. A distinctive nature of the park is that it is too deep to be marshy and too shallow to be a lake. If you ever visit Manipur, which is known for cascading rapids, tripping rivers, carpets of flowers, exotic blooms and lazy lakes, head to Sendra

to get a bird’s eye view of the unique Loktak Lake and the floating mass called ‘phumdi’.

You can reach the park by road, rail and air, through Imphal, the capital of Manipur. The park is about 53 kilometres from Imphal.

The nearest rail head is at Dimapur, on the broad gauge line of the north eastern railways and it is nearly 215 kilometres from Imphal.

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MANIPUR TRAVELLER

Manipur bags the most promising Be part of new destination award Sangai Festival

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anipur Tourism has been conferred the Most Promising New Destination Award at the 91st Travel and Tourism Fair held at the Nehru Centre, Mumbai, recently.

K K Chhetry IAS, Commissioner - Toursim, Government of Manipur, received the award along with his team members. It was for the first

time the award has been conferred to Manipur, for the relentless efforts of the stakeholders in promoting

ASIAN TRAVELLER | OCTOBER 2011

the state, as a preferred tourist destination.

Headed by K K Chhetry, the Manipur team had in it L Ibochoubi, Tourist Officer, Government of Manipur; Dr L Surjit, President, Manipur Mountaineering and Trekking Association; HRK Sharma, MD, Seven Sisters Holidays; Santosh Shekhar, Manager- Business Development, Shija Hospitals and Paonam Sommykanta, Manager, the Classic Hotel.

At the fair, representatives of Manipur Tourism along with the stakeholders showcased the tourism potential of the state, apart from promoting the forthcoming Manipur Sangai Festival, which is held annually from November 2130, every year. Manipur has, of late, grown into one of the priority states, in the Indian tourism industry.

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isit the jewel of India in November, if you want to experience and explore Manipur, when it sports festive atmosphere.

This Indian state is all set to celebrate the Sangai Festival from November 21-30, with all pomp and glory. Held annually, this festival is a means to showcase and promote the multi-colour art and culture, indigenous sports, eco and adventure sports as well as scenic natural beauty of the state. Participation of foreign ambassadors, cultural troupes from abroad and a number of Indian states will add more spice to this year’s festival, by making it more stylish and grandeur in scale. Fashion shows, rock shows, theme district days, local delicacies, multi-colour cultural shows, etc., will be integral part of the Manipur Sangai Festival, giving you enough avenues to take memorable experiences back home.

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TAMIL NADU TRAVELLER

Trek and Trail

Visit Kolli Hills to spend quality time with your family, as it is an ideal getaway from the hustle, bustle and madness of the city, writes Dr S Bakthavatchalam

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f you are the one in search of a lush, mist clad hill station, punctuated with large and small waterfalls that roar, gurgle and splash down the hill side, to have the most magical experience of nature in all its virgin beauty, Kolli Hills, nestled in the luxuriant forests of Eastern Ghats, is an ideal destination for you. The square shaped hills, which are about 1000 to 1300 metres in height, are spread over approximately 280 square kilometres. To reach this not so commercialised tourist spot, known for its unspoilt natural beauty and pleasant climate almost throughout the year, you have to travel as many as 70 hairpin bends. The journey through the winding ghat roads should be an electrifying experience, as it offers panoramic, breathtaking views of the hills and its surroundings.

Located in central Tamil Nadu, at Namakkal, Kolli Hills is one of the major hot spots for nature lovers, trekkers, hiking enthusiasts and meditation practitioners. You can while away your time at the botanical garden, boat house, cave house and Masila Falls, experiencing Kolli Hills more intimately, in a tranquil atmosphere. You can also visit the viewpoints at Seekuparai and Selur Nadu, to enjoy the spectacular

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view of the nearby valleys. The hills are enclosed by lush green vegetation in the monsoon and spring and streaked with streams, adding to its natural beauty.

Numerous streams originate from Kolli Hills and the major ones traversing the hills are Aiyaru, Varattar, etc.

Like most other hill stations, Kolli Hills has in its bag a boat house at Valayapatti. The lake is artificial but with no one to disturb you, boat cruise will be a pleasant experience and worth enough

to feast your tired body and mind.

Another attraction is botanical garden, where you can find a rose garden, children’s park and cottages of different types.

The vast expanse of forest boasts a variety of rare medicinal plants, such as neem, ‘karu-veppilai’ (orange jasmine), ‘neermathi’, tamarind, ‘seetha odai’, ‘illupai’, silver oak, etc., which are widely used in the preparation of indigenous Indian medicines. Lemon grass is also prominent in most of the reserve forest areas. In the forest, you can spot rabbits, wild boar, hare, peacock, jungle cat, monkeys and a variety of birds.

You can also set out to the pineapple research farm maintained by the government, to take a stroll through it, breathing in the tempting aroma of pineapples that wafts in the air. Kolli Hills is also famous for farming and the major cultivations include pineapple, black pepper, coffee, tea, jackfruit, etc.

The jackfruit grown on these hills is known for its flavour and heady scent.

If you had enough of botanical garden, viewpoints and farming experience, visit the Akasa Gangai Waterfalls, to enjoy the enchanting view of Aiyaru River splashing down the hills.

The waterfall is situated in a beautiful

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TAMIL NADU TRAVELLER valley, surrounded by mountains in all sides. Located near Arappaleeswarar temple, there are thousands of steps that lead down to the falls. This location is ideal for trekking. The breeze here is pleasant and the cascade of silvery water touching and brushing the innumerable herbs is an enthralling view. The sight of fall is sure to inject more energy to body and ecstasy to mind. And, if you like to have a natural shower, the best place is Masila Falls. There is a concrete pathway right up to the waterfall and it is an ideal place for the holidaying families.

Kolli Hills is also a place associated with several legends and therefore your stay at this hill station would not be complete, without exploring some of it. Kolli Hills, known in Tamil as ‘Kolli Malai’, is also featured in several classical Tamil literature works. ‘Kolli Malai’ means ‘Mountain of Death’ and the origin of this name can be traced back to the early Hindu literature that records the existence of a ghost (spirit of a maiden) called ‘Kolli

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Pavai’, on the top of these hills. As per the legend, in ancient times, sages made Kolli Malai their hub to perform rituals, as it was a peaceful place. However, the demons invaded the hills and disturbed

the rituals performed by the sages, who in turn sought the help of Kolli Pavai.

She lured the demons with her beauty and smile and then killed them. Even today, locals worship Kolli Pavai, who is the local deity of the Kolli Pavai Amman Temple. Visiting the temple, therefore, will help you recall the legend.

Another place of attraction at Kolli Hills is Arappaleeswarar temple and it

is located at the top of the hills. At the temple you can find numerous Tamil inscriptions belonging to the Chola period. The temple is said to have a hidden path that ends at the Shiva temple in Rasipuram. The simple architectural style adds charm to the sanctity of the temple.

To promote the destination, its district administration organises ‘Ori festival’, with a lot of cultural events. The name ‘Ori’ might have borrowed from its ancient ruler Valvil Ori, who was renowned for his generosity and valour. His valour and marksmanship are sung by some poets and his exploits are a trendy part of folklore. Valvil is said to have killed a lion, bear, deer and a boar with, a single arrow.

Tourists can reach Kolli Hills by road from Chennai, Salem, Namakkal and Tiruchi. The nearest railway station is Salem and it is just over 80 kilometres from Kolli Hills. The nearest airport is at Tiruchi and it is about 139 kilometres from the hill station.

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AVIATION

Malaysia Airlines bags two World Travel Awards

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n what can be considered as a moment of success, Malaysia Airlines has bagged the ‘Asia’s Leading Airline’ and ‘Asia’s Leading Airline Lounge’ awards, at the World Travel Awards (Asia and Australasia) ceremony.

The awards programme, hailed as the ‘Oscars of the travel industry’, is an annual event organised by World Travel Awards (WTA), since 1993. It serves to acknowledge, reward and celebrate excellence across all sectors of the global travel and tourism industry.

On behalf of Malaysia’s national carrier, Ahmad Jauhari Yahya, its MD/CEO, received the two awards, at the presentation ceremony held in Bangkok, capital city of Thailand.

This is for the second consecutive year that Malaysia Airlines wins recognition from the WTA. Last year, Malaysia Airlines was recognised as World’s Leading Airline to Asia, Asia’s Leading Airline and Asia’s Leading Business Class Airline, by WTA.

“We thank all who voted for us and are indeed proud of this achievement. Our flagship lounge in Kuala Lumpur International Airport

these awards will further spur us in taking our premium product and service standards to greater heights and remain the most preferred airline

Aerospace Engineering, was acknowledged as the top airline affiliated Maintenance and Repair Organisation in the world, by the Aviation

is one of the largest in the world and has been an award winner several times. These awards are recognitions of the consumer trust in our premium products and consistent high service standards. It is also the result of our employees’ dedication to deliver only the best to our customers. I am confident that

brand not only in Asia but globally,” smiles, Yahya.

In July this year, Malaysia Airlines was recognised as one of Asia’s ‘Best Brand’ and ‘Best Employer Brand’, at a prestigious international forum held in Singapore.

Besides, earlier this year, Malaysia Airlines’ engineering subsidiary, Malaysian

Week’s Overhaul and Maintenance magazine.

The event in Bangkok was the fourth stop for the World Travel Awards Grand Tour, this year. On November 29, finalists who were put forward in the various world categories will gather in Qatar for the Grand Final WTA ceremony.

Now, enjoy a comfortable journey to Malaysia

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alaysia Airlines, in its efforts to enhance premium air travel experience and further increase the comfort levels of its customers, has introduced Boeing 777–200 aircraft operations for its Delhi–Kuala Lumpur evening flight, effective September 26, this year.

The Boeing 777-200, with a total capacity of 280 seats, comprising 35 seats in Golden Club class (business class) and 245 in Economy class, is set to make travelling to Malaysia and

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beyond more stylish, comfortable and enjoyable. Now, it is time to experience the unmatched in-flight service for a relaxed and a fresh leisure or business trips.

“As a premium service airline, we constantly upgrade our superior product and services to remain the preferred

air carrier of our passengers and the Boeing 777-200 is yet another such enhancement on one of our most promising routes between India and Malaysia,” says, Azahar Hamid, Malaysia Airlines Regional Senior Vice President, South Asia.

Malaysia Airlines currently operates a total of 40 flights to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia from five gateways in India - New Delhi (12 flights), Mumbai, Chennai, Bangalore and Hyderabad (seven flights each).

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AVIATION

Bangkok Airways eyes more Indian outbound market

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fter establishing its presence in Indian sub-continent with its first route in Mumbai earlier this year, it is time for Bangkok Airways to expand its services in the country, to attract more Indian outbound travellers to Thailand.

As part of its plans to expand its footprint in India’s burgeoning air travel market and attract more Indian arrivals, it has launched direct flights from Bengaluru to Bangkok and vice versa, and will be operating five flights weekly.

Bangkok Airways will initially be using Airbus A319 that comes with 138 economy class seats, for its Bengaluru operations. Airbus A319 with business class is expected to commence its service in November.

“Our Mumbai-Bangkok service has been well received and it is a

great indication of our success and the enormous potential among the Indian travellers. We are pleased with the average cabin factor for MumbaiBangkok and vice versa, which has been around 70 per cent per flight. We expect

to see a similar figure for Bengaluru.

Besides taking Indian travellers to Thailand, we hope to bring business and tourists to Bengaluru, as it offers several natural and traditional attractions,” says,

SpiceJet to fly to 10 new destinations

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n its efforts to tap new destinations, which lack direct flights from India and the ones, which are growing exponentially, the budget carrier SpiceJet is set to introduce flights

to such places. Initially, the carrier is planning to fly to 10 new international destinations, including Tashkent and Tehran.

It has submitted the request to the respective authorities for the new routes and we learnt that while some routes will be easily granted, others

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may involve new bilateral air services agreements with some countries. If everything goes as per its plans, the budget carrier will fly to new destinations from next year, it is learnt.

As per the available reports, besides Tashkent and Tehran, SpiceJet is targeting destinations such as Uzbekistan, Iran, Singapore, Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, Dubai, Muscat and Riyadh. Tashkent has been attracting a lot of business traffic of late, apart from leisure seekers. The airline already connects Kathmandu and Colombo from Delhi and Chennai.

Puttipong Prasarttong-Osoth, President, Bangkok Airways.

With the direct flight connectivity to Bengaluru, the Mumbai office of Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is confident to achieve its target of welcoming 885,000 tourists or more to Thailand from India by end of this year.

“For us at TAT Mumbai office, Bengaluru is a key hub in the south Indian outbound market and with Bangkok Airways’ foray into Bengaluru, the flight connectivity to Thailand has been further enhanced. With direct flight connectivity, I believe more Indians will now travel to Thailand. This would help us achieve our target of welcoming 885,000 tourists or more to Thailand from India by end of this year,” says a confident Sethaphan Buddhani, Director of Tourism Authority of Thailand Mumbai Office.

Asiana Airlines to implement Altéa customer management solution

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outh Korea’s major airline Asiana Airlines is on its course to implement the Amadeus Altéa customer management solution, to manage its domestic and international reservations, inventory and departure control operations.

Asiana is the latest airline to adopt Amadeus Altéa, the groundbreaking passenger service system from the leading travel technology partner and transaction processor, for the global travel and tourism industry.

“We have been studying our passenger service system requirements over the last few years and we have realised that the Altéa suite is the perfect solution, to meet our future needs. Altéa offers an impressive range of functions that will allow us to enhance our passenger management processes and respond more efficiently to customer needs,” says, Kwang Hee Ryu, EVP, CommercialPassenger, Asiana Airlines.

Asiana’s migration to the Amadeus Altéa David Brett, President, customer management solution is due for Amadeus Asia Pacific completion by 2013. “We recognise Asiana’s commitment to customer service excellence and are confident that Altéa will help the airline enhance its operational efficiency and reduce operational cost,” says, David Brett, President, Amadeus Asia Pacific.

ASIAN TRAVELLER | OCTOBER 2011

AVIATION

AAI initiates steps to attract airlines, to non-metro airports

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he Airports Authority of India (AAI) is set to offer discounts and incentives to airlines, in a bid to attract them to non-metro airports. As part of the move, the airport operator is likely to offer free night parking for five years, to airlines that decide to use the airport and 50 per cent discount on landing and parking charges for airlines that operate flights during non-peak hours.

However, as per the available reports, the discount on landing and parking charges will come down to 25 per cent in the second year and will be discontinued from the third year.

The discount offer will be applicable at 18 airports, including Ahmedabad, Amritsar, Bhopal, Bhubaneswar, Jaipur,

as Varanasi and Bhubaneswar, AAI will offer 25 per cent discount on parking and landing charges for the first two years of operation.

Chandigarh, Lucknow, International airlines at Mangalore, Patna and all these airports will also get Varanasi. To increase traffic in a discount on parking and airports at tourist places such landing charges. In case, an

Direct air connectivity between Spain and India may fruition soon

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he dream of establishing direct air connectivity between Spain and India may soon realise, thanks to the initiatives taken by the Spain Tourism. The Deputy Tourism Minister of Spain, Joan Mesquida Ferrando had approached Kingfisher Airlines in India, in connection with facilitating direct air

connectivity between the two countries.

He said the Spain Tourism is very positive about the talks.

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“The chances for the direct flights are bright, as Kingfisher Airlines would be joining the One World Alliance, the global alliance of airline companies, next year. The bilateral air agreement between the two countries permits Indian companies to fly to Spain,” seconds, Arturo Ortiz, Director- India, Tourism Office of Spain.

The Spanish Minister also had a meeting with RH Khwaja, Secretary - Tourism, Government of India, in Delhi and discussed the possibilities of Spanish investment in the hospitality sector in India. “The memorandum of understanding signed between the two countries in 2009 permits investments in the hospitality sector. Large hospitality companies in Spain are interested in investing in India, in the up-scale hotel segment,” informs Ferrando.

airline starts an international flight or increases its international flights connecting the destination, subject to approval from the government, the airline will be given a 75 per cent discount on parking and landing charges, for the first year. The discount will decrease to 50 per cent in the second year and to 25 per cent in the third year. The airline will also get free parking at the airport and will be provided with necessary infrastructure for operation of new airline.

AAI, which functions under the ministry of civil aviation, operates 126 airports across the country.

IndiGo to offer daily flights to Kathmandu

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he low cost Indian carrier IndiGo has announced Kathmandu as its fifth international destination and will operate daily flights between New Delhi and Kathmandu, at a return fare of Rs 4,999.

“Kathmandu is a key market for us and holds a lot of promise. We will continue to keep our promise of providing low fares, in a bid to provide the much needed avenue for countless Indians to explore wider horizons. At the same time, we are opening up the doors to more and more overseas travellers, to experience India,” says, Aditya Ghosh, President, IndiGo.

ASIAN TRAVELLER | OCTOBER 2011

HOSPITALITY

Spice up your holidays

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terling Holidays, a leading leisure hospitality brand, has opened Woods n Spice, its 15th resort, in Thekkady, Kerala. Located near the perimeter of the Periyar wildlife sanctuary, Woods n Spice has been designed to blend into the natural beauty of Thekkady’s famed evergreen forests and rolling grasslands, allowing guests to enjoy the beauty and adventure of the wilderness ensconced in the comfort of a full-service, modern resort.

The resort comes with 53 elegantly furnished rooms and offers a range of outdoor and indoor holiday activities, including a temperature controlled swimming pool and a wellness spa. The accommodation facilities come in categories such as regular, deluxe and superior cottages and suite rooms, while its wellness spa offers authentic ayurveda treatment.

Its temperature controlled swimming pool in a wildlife setting is something that is out of a dream world. At Woods n Spice, one could experience the pleasure of lazing in the pool or indulging in a game at the Holiday Activities centre, which offers a choice

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of pool table, table tennis, carom board and chess, etc.

Trekking inside the forest is also possible, accompanied by trained guides.

Woods n Spice also houses

Holidays in the vacation ownership and holidays segment. Sterling already has a couple of resorts across different scenic localities in the country, each designed

of spices such as pepper, cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, etc., which are grown in abundance in Thekkady.

Other tourist attractions in and around Thekkady include

a mini conference centre. It has all the facilities you will need to conduct a conference or a workshop. Then, its multi cuisine restaurant has a scrumptious spread of mouthwatering delicacies and serves Indian, Chinese, Tandoori, Continental and authentic regional dishes.

“The opening of Woods n Spice in Thekkady is a significant move for us, since to offer customers a great it marks the beginning of and memorable holiday the resurgence of Sterling experience. Woods n Spice in Thekkady not only builds on our competitive advantage, but also underlines our quest to bring innovative offerings and outstanding holiday experiences, to our customers,” smiles, Ramesh Ramanathan, Managing Director, Sterling Holidays.

Thekkady is a sought after destination in Kerala and is home to Periyar wildlife sanctuary, one of India’s largest wild life habitat.

Besides wildlife, at Periyar one could also experience the cultivation and processing

the Mangladevi temple and elephant rides.

Sterling was incorporated in 1986 with the vision of delivering great holiday experiences, to Indian families. Currently, Sterling has a total inventory of 1258 rooms, spread across a network of 10 owned and five leased resorts, in 13 scenic holiday destinations in India – Darjeeling, Gangtok, Goa, Kodaikanal, Lonavala, Manali, Munnar, Mussoorie, Ooty, Puri, Thekkady, Yelagiri and Yercaud. The company also has 16 additional sites, where it plans to add new resorts in the coming years.

ASIAN TRAVELLER | OCTOBER 2011

MARKETING

Fly to South and Central America, with Globus

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o meet the needs of growing Indian outbound travellers, Globus family of brands, one of the world’s largest tour operators, has unveiled a range of vacations to South and Central America, for 2012. These unique holiday packages are expected to offer Indian travellers a truly authentic experience and insight into the beautiful landscape, history and colourful culture of South and Central American destinations.

Its offerings span from escorted tours, to independent breaks and cruise vacations and include a range of price points, travel place, vacation length and countries in the region. With so much on offer, Globus’ selection to South and Central America is reportedly the largest package that has ever been made available to Indian travellers. Globus also has added two brand new escorted tours - Cuba: A Spiritual, Historical and Cultural Journey vacation, and Spirit of South America.

Globus offers a selection of 15 independent vacations to the exotic continent. Independent touring with Globus comes with an extra touch, as it

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gives travellers a chance to explore the real destination and personalise their experiences, with the help of a local host.

The tours include well located hotels, breakfast and at times other meals, transportation and sightseeing.

Apart from panoramic vacations that include multiple South American countries, other destinations offered in the portfolio of the Globus family of brands are Peru, Panama, Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Costa Rica, Ecuador and Mexico. The holidays to these destinations span from five to 16 days and are priced from $859 onwards.

The vacations offered by the Globus family of brands will provide an opportunity for you to marvel at the Iguassu Falls or unearth the mysteries of the Mayan world. Travellers can also experience two unique cruises with Avalon Waterways, to the Galapagos Islands with the rest of Ecuador, or Peru.

Avalon Waterways, part of the Globus family of brands, is the world leader in river cruising. A 10-day Ecuador and Galapagos cruise is priced from $3,839 onwards, which includes all meals and sightseeing.

“For most, travelling to South America is all about realising the dream of a lifetime. The distance and the effort required to just get there make it important that travellers get the opportunity to maximise on the vacation, by not just seeing the beauty and charm but also experiencing the unique customs and cultures of the destination. The Globus family of brands has spent more than eight decades creating and finely tuning vacations that deliver exactly that,” says, Gauri Jayaram, Regional Director – South Asia and Middle East, Globus family of brands.

ASIAN TRAVELLER | OCTOBER 2011

MARKETING

Star Cruises, Travel Tours Group chart new initiatives to tap Indian market

S

tar Cruises (India) Travel Services Pvt Ltd, which has successfully completed road shows in Hyderabad, Chennai, Kochi, Bengaluru and New Delhi, along with Travel Tours Group, to update its travel agents on the 2012 itineraries, is set to focus on the school groups and weddings, in the long run. “We are in talks with travel agents, who organise trips for school groups, since it will be a mix of fun and education for the kids on board. The wedding segment is an emerging one with a lot of potential in India and we want to capitalise on it,” Manvendra Singh Vaghela, second Assistant, VP – Sales, Star Cruises (India). He also informed that Star Cruises’ SuperStar Virgo will undergo complete refurbishment in January 2012. “The cruise ship will be in dry docks for 20 days from January 2, 2012 in Singapore.

The cost for the refurbishment is around USD 30 million,” he adds.

The recently concluded road show has been part of Star Cruises’ Annual five-city Road Show. “This road show is specifically to thank our agent partners for their support and to update

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them on the 2012 itineraries. Travel Air Representations (T A Reps), our B2B division, today works with over 1500 travel agents across India, with emphasis on tier II and tier III cities.

Our 24 minutes and 24 hours campaign

in providing sales representation for tourism businesses, by promoting products and services in the Indian market. The current product portfolio of the company includes cruises (Star Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line

(24M24H) to service agents request has been a stupendous success since its launch last year,” informs, Joseph Jose, Associate Vice President, Travel Tours Group. Travel Tours is one of the leading Preferred Sales Agent (PSA) of Star Cruises.

T A Reps, the dedicated B2B division of the Travel Tours Group, specialises

and Paul Gauguin Cruises), resorts and holidays (The Venetian MacaoResort-Hotel, Club Med, Contiki Holidays, Cosmos and Globus Coach Tours), online instant hotels (GTA, Kuoni Connect, DOTW, Versys and Desiya), rail Europe and allied travel products such as visa services, TATA AIG travel insurance, etc.

ASIAN TRAVELLER | OCTOBER 2011

ALBUM

M

edia Steps India, publishers of Asia’s leading travel magazine Asian Traveller, celebrated the World Tourism Day and Asian Traveller’s fourth year in print, on September 27, 2011, at the Nayanar Hall, Hotel Le Meridien, Cochin. The occasion was marked by the launch of 3M Tours and Travels, Media Step India’s travel and tourism division. The fourth anniversary issue of the Asian Traveller was released

by Tony Chammani, Mayor, Kochi, by handing over the first copy of the magazine to Rajashekharan Nair, MD, UDS Kovalam. The function was inaugurated and presided over by the former KTDC Chairman Cherian Philip. Biji Eapen, President, IAAI and M P Mahesh Kumar, Counsellor, Cochin Corporation were also present on the dias. Here is a lens view of the function.

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KERALA TRAVELLER

Le Méridien Kochi celebrates World Tourism Day

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e Méridien Kochi, a five star luxury hotel, celebrated World tourism Day on September 27, 2011, highlighting this year’s theme ‘linking cultures’. Held at its lobby in the presence of invited and in-house guests, the event began with the lighting of the lamp and ‘thiruvathira’, a traditional Kerala dance. As part of the celebrations, Le Méridien’s culinary team had prepared a cake replicating the world map and the dance programme was followed by cake cutting ceremony. Cherian Philip, former Chairman of KTDC was present at the function.

ASIAN TRAVELLER | OCTOBER 2011

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VARIETY

T K Manoj Kumar IAS, has been appointed as Principal Secretary Tourism, Government of Kerala

Martin Craigs has been appointed as CEO of Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA)

Sanjay Kirpal has been appointed as CEO of WelcomHeritage

Hollis Beckwith, joined as Complex Director of Spa, The Westin Gurgaon and The Westin Sohna, Resort and Spa

1.

Who was the founder of BBC?

2.

Where is Tenzing-Hillary Airport?

3.

Which territory of USA has the motto America’s day begins’?

‘Where

4.

How the rapper Eminem got that name?

5.

Who discovered New Zealand?

6.

Sangria is a red wine. Why is it called so?

7.

Which Gulf capital’s name would mean ‘Big Tree’?

8.

Where is Domino’s Pizza headquartered?

9.

Which airport is popularly known as Sea-Tac?

10. Taman Negara in Malaysia is the oldest

rainforest in the world. What does the

name mean?

Compiled by Deekay

Send in your answers to info@mediastepsindia.com with TYKC 48 in the the subject line.

Answers should reach us before the 30th of this month.

Answers to TYKC 44 Rahul Pandit, joined The Lemon Tree Hotel Company as President and Chief Operating Officer

Rachna Sharma, has been appointed as Regional Director of Sales - India, Lebua Hotels and Resorts

Nishanth P Nair has joined Carnoustie Beach Resort and Ayurveda Spa as Director of Sales and Marketing

1. Eastern Kingdom, 2. The Oscar Awards ceremony, 3. Juneteenth is June Nineteenth (of year 1865) commemorated as the Anti-Slavery Day in USA, 4. Austria, 5. Rei – Spiritual source + Ki - :Life force ( Japanese), 6. From the Bavarian flag ( B in BMW stands for Bavaria), 7. 7-Eleven, 8. Heavy Stone (tung –heavy + sten –stone), 9. The Savoy, London (1881), 10. Christianity promoted along with physical health and welfare like YMCA

WINNER OF TYKC 48

Neha Sodhani has joined Aviareps India as Sales Officer for Ethiopian Airlines

Alex Koshy has been appointed General Manager of Carnoustie Beach Resort and Ayurveda Spa

Ajin Joy has been appointed Regional Sales Manager of the Raviz, Kollam

One all-correct entry will get

Free Stay at Le-Meridien, Kochi [ 2 nights and 3 days for two ]*

OBITUARY Babu Varghese

MD, Tour India Holidays (P) Ltd.

We, at Asian Traveller, mourn the untimely demise of Babu Varghese.

May his soul rest in peace

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Ms. Abitha Immaculate “Burton Reheart” Lakshmi Naryana layout Lingarajapuram, Bangalore-84

PUBLIC NOTICE This is to inform you that Mr. Vinu V Nair, who was serving as Director – Marketing, Asian Traveller has been terminated from his services with effect from 30th September 2011. Hence fourth, he is no more associated with Asian Traveller or any of our group concerns. Anybody dealing with him on account of Asian Traveller related matter should be doing so on your own personal responsibility.

In future any Asian Traveller related matter, please contact me or Mr. Brijil Abraham, Mobile: +91 8943341100

Regards G. Biju Krishnan Editor & Publisher

ASIAN TRAVELLER | OCTOBER 2011

Incredible India

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ASIAN TRAVELLER | OCTOBER 2011