in this issue VOL. 4
7
NO. 12
SEPTEMBER 2011
In the pink
Indian tourism industry, which saw an increase of 5.3 per cent in foreign arrivals in August 2011 alone, is in the pink of health. The working group of tourism has recommended for a four fold increase in the allotment of funds for tourism, during the 12th five year plan
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Land of cultural heritage to host official WTD celebrations
The land of world’s most celebrated cultural heritage will host the official World Tourism Day (WTD) celebrations this year, it is learnt. It seems the organisers have unanimously opted for the Egyptian city of Aswan to host the official 2011 WTD celebrations, keeping in mind this year’s theme ‘Tourism – Linking Cultures’.
42 PATA Travel Mart flies to Manila, from Delhi P 103 to 115
After the successful completion of the PATA Travel Mart 2011 in New Delhi, it is now turn of the Manila to host the next PATA Travel Mart, in September 2012.
12 Agra readies to lure more tourists,
125 IT&CMA and CTW to be held in Bangkok
with better amenities
18 Wild beauty of Blue Mountains
177 Kollam hosts Second Southern Regional Conference of Tourism Ministers
41 Thailand to promote beauty and wellness tourism, at GITM 2011
214 Alappuza to have better backwater tourism infra
42 PATA Travel Mart 2011 held in Delhi 62 Airlines bet big on low emission practices, to save costs
Woman of the Month
10 Questions
78 Venice introduces tourist tax 81 Oman to host third global geo-tourism conference
118 Singapore Cruise Centre to sponsor CSA 2011
121 ITB Asia to be held in Singapore from October 19-21, 2011 4
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SEPTEMBER 2011
5
EDITOR’S NOTE
T
he debt crisis in US, which still lingers like a veil of mist over the world, is likely to have an impact on the tourism industry in India. However, the magnitude of the impact could be curtailed through timely intervention of the tourism industry and the government. Tourism experts have indicated that a weaker dollar arising from the US credit rate depreciation could result in less Americans travelling abroad. The debt crisis and bearish markets have had a dent on the tourism industry in Canada and other European countries, which largely depended on the American arrivals. Even in UK, the tourist inflow from US has come down sharply to 2.7 million Americans last year, from 4.1 million arrivals, in 2000. Seeing the downward growth, Ireland has decided to keep its corporate taxes low, to encourage arrivals. In India, tourist arrivals slowed throughout 2008, due to a slowdown in the US and UK, the main source markets for the country. Though the tourist inflow from US and Europe decreased sharply in 2008, Indian tourism industry survived the situation, with its focus on domestic tourism. Despite many hitches, tourism industry was the second largest foreign exchange earner for India. According to an industry research report by auditing and consulting firm Deloitte Touche, Indian tourism sector is expected to generate revenues of $42.8 billion by 2017, a 42 per cent surge from 2007. Tourism in India is also expected to contribute Rs 8.5 lakh crore to its GDP by 2020. With World Tourism Day (WTD) 2011 around the corner, it will be the right time for India to embrace sustainable and environment friendly ways to take its tourism industry to new heights. WTD will be celebrated on September 27, with the theme 'Tourism - Linking Cultures'. We, at Asian Traveller, feel that there won't be a right time than this to celebrate our Fourth year in print. Like the country's tourism industry, we too have emerged successful, swimming against the tides. However, it would not have been possible, had we not received wholehearted support from our readers, clients and well-wishers. We express our gratitude to all and everyone. We understand that you are looking for more novelty. And we promise you that. On this occasion, we are also glad to let you know that Media Steps India is foraying into travel and tourism segment with the launch of 3M Tours and Travels. Hope you will welcome us with open hands. G. BIJU KRISHNAN Editor & Publisher editor@mediastepsindia.com +91 9447555222
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ASIAN TRAVELLER
SEPTEMBER 2011
OVERVIEW
In the pink I
ndian tourism industry, which saw an increase of 5.3 per cent in foreign arrivals in August 2011 alone, is in the pink of health. The international arrivals rose to 4.02 lakh during the period, from 3.70 lakh, in the comparable period, last year. The increase in the arrivals was reflected in its foreign exchange earnings, which grew to Rs 5734 crore in August 2011, from Rs 4620 crore in August 2010. The figures are likely to alleviate the fears of another financial meltdown hitting the Indian tourism industry. Another good thing, as far as Indian tourism industry is concerned, is the recommendation of the working group
of tourism, for a four fold increase in the allotment of funds for tourism, during the 12th five year plan (20112016). Substantial proportion of the estimated outlay is proposed to be allocated for improvement of tourism infrastructure, human resource development, capacity building and promotion and publicity. During the 12th year plan, the country’s tourism sector is expected to grow at a rate of 12 per cent. Well aware that the taxes levied on tourism sector are very high in some states, in yet another move, Union Tourism Minister Subodh Kant Sahay has suggested that the taxes levied on tourism industry should be unified,
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rationalised and made globally competitive, to get the maximum dividends from tourism sectors. The minister is planning to limit the tax to eight per cent for the tourism sector, under the goods and services tax (GST) system. The initiatives taken at the meeting of working group of tourism are commendable, as they will, in the long run, help
to take the country’s largest service industry to new heights. Since, tourism is an instrument for economic development and employment generation, there is a need to promote this industry in all possible way. If the recent initiatives are any indication, India will soon emerge as a dominating force in global tourism arena.
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WTD
Land of cultural heritage to host official WTD celebrations
T
he land of world’s most
celebrations of WTD 2011,” says
in every seven jobs. World
respect and understanding, will
celebrated cultural heritage
Taleb Rifai, secretary general,
Tourism Day is an excellent
also be discussed during the WTD
will host the official World
United Nations World Tourism
opportunity to raise awareness
celebration time.
Tourism Day (WTD) celebrations
Organisation (UNWTO). Egypt,
around the world on this vital
this year, it is learnt. It seems the
with its rich history and vibrant
economic sector and its
celebrations, UNWTO has
organisers have unanimously
culture, draws millions of
contribution, to social, economic
launched its first ever WTD Twitter
opted for the Egyptian city of
tourists to the country, each
and environmental well-being,”
Competition, asking people to
Aswan to host the official 2011
year.
says Mounir Fakhri Abdel-Nour,
‘tweet’ about how they consider
Egyptian Tourism Minister.
tourism to link cultures.
WTD celebrations, keeping in
“We are very honoured to host
mind this year’s theme ‘Tourism –
the official celebrations of WTD
Linking Cultures’.
2011, in Egypt.
As part of the celebrations,
As the run up to the WTD
Winning entries will appear on
Aswan will witness brain storming
the official programme handed
sessions on the theme, featuring
out during the celebrations in
Egypt, home to some of the
important sectors of our society
leading public and private tourism
Aswan. Also, annual WTD photo
world’s most celebrated cultural
and it accounted for 12 per cent of
stakeholders, academia and
competition has been launched
heritage and a leading tourism
our GDP, in 2010. This growing
media. Topics such as the role of
and the winner will be offered a
destination, to host the official
sector is also responsible for one
tourism in building tolerance,
trip to Egypt.
“It is most fitting to select
Tourism is one of the most
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WTD
Tourism can break down barriers
W
ith 940 million tourists
responsibilities, to minimise any
crossing international
potentially negative impacts on
borders in 2010, never
the cultural assets and heritage of
have the world’s people and
mankind. The Global Code of
cultures been drawn together, as
Ethics for Tourism, a set of
now. Through tourism, millions of
universal values, principles and
people are brought closer every
standards, guides tourism’s
day.
development, so that it is
World Tourism Day, 2011 is taking place under the theme ‘Tourism – linking cultures’ and it
sustainable, ethical and responsible. Ultimately, tourism is an
‘Tourism – a means to promote peace’
T
he theme of this year’s
Ethics for Tourism. These
World Tourism Day,
guidelines for sustainable and
‘Tourism – linking
responsible tourism development,
is going to be a celebration of
economic sector based on human
cultures’, highlights the powerful
approved by the UN General
tourism’s role, in breaking down
interaction, exchange and
role of tourism, in building
Assembly in 2001, are based on
barriers across cultures and
dialogue. World Tourism Day,
international understanding and
the proven interaction between
fostering tolerance, respect and
2011 is a call to all those involved
mutual respect.
tourism and peace, human rights
mutual understanding. In our
in tourism, to act in a way that is
often divided world, these values
conscious and respectful of
learn about a new culture, than
represent the stepping stones
culture, which promotes
to experience it first-hand.
opportunity to reflect on the
towards a more peaceful future.
intercultural dialogue and ensures
Tourism offers a wonderful
importance of tourism, to global
There is no better way to
and understanding. World Tourism Day is an
that local communities fully
connecting thread between the
well-being. As we travel, let us
tourism, with a view to
participate in and benefit from the
visitor and the host community. It
engage with other cultures and
contributing to economic
development opportunities of
promotes dialogue and
celebrate human diversity. On this
development, international
tourism. We look forward to
interaction.
day, let us recognise tourism as a
understanding, peace, prosperity
celebrating the cultures of the
and universal respect for human
world with you.
Promoting and developing
Such contact between people of different backgrounds is the
rights and fundamental freedoms
very foundation for tolerance. In
for all, is at the heart of UNWTO’s
a world struggling for peaceful
mandate. Every people and every
coexistence, tourism can build
place possess a unique culture.
bridges and contribute, to peace.
Experiencing different ways of life,
development also advance the
customs and visiting cultural sites
cause of global solidarity. At a
have become leading motivations
time of profound global
for travel and as a result, a crucial
economic uncertainty, tourism’s
source of revenue and job
ability to generate socio-
creation, particularly for
economic opportunities and help
developing countries. Income
reduce the gap between rich
from tourism is often redirected
and poor is more important than
towards safeguarding of the
ever.
destinations and revitalisation of Tourism growth brings serious
I encourage all involved in Taleb Rifai Secretary-General World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO)
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and united world.
Tourism’s contributions to
discovering new food and
cultures.
force for a more tolerant, open
tourism to embrace the ten principles of the Global Code of
Ban Ki-moon Secretary-General United Nations
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INCREDIBLE INDIA
Agra readies to lure more tourists, with better amenities
I
f the ongoing preparations are anything to
visitors will be able to board luxurious air-
Varanasi, was started at Bateshwar, 70
go by, Agra is all set to welcome the tourist
conditioned marco polo buses, for a tour of
kilometres from the city. Besides, the state
season, which begins on Sep 1, with a high
the city, from the Agra Cantt railway station.
tourism department is now making every effort
spirit. This city on the banks of the river
“There will be four buses that will take the
to enable the tourists to enjoy the grandeur of
Yamuna has seen launch of luxury buses,
tourists to Fatehpur Sikri, Sikandra, Taj Mahal
the heritage city, on foot.
upgradation of monuments and recruitment of
and the Agra Fort,” says Neeraj Saxena,
In another move, Aseem Arun, deputy
English speaking cops, to make it a better
regional manager of the state roadways.
inspector general, has unveiled a package of
haven for the tourists. According to an IANS
“Buses will have women conductors and a
police reforms that will not only increase the
report, all these measures are expected to
woman constable. Apart, tourist guides and
visibility of cops, but also quicken their
improve the appeal of the city of Taj Mahal.
brochures would be provided in the buses, for
response. Cops on sleek bikes, speaking
convenience. LCD screens will be placed in
flawless English, with the latest gadgetry will
the buses to provide relevant information
hopefully be seen around monuments, to
about the monuments,” he adds.
instill a sense of confidence in tourists.
The latest preparations at the makeover of Agra comes in the wake of figures from the Ministry of Tourism for the financial year ended March 31, 2011, catapult Agra at the top position among tourist destinations in India. According to reliable sources, Taj Mahal earned around Rs 20 crore (USD 4.5 million) from the sale of entrance tickets alone. Besides, figures from the Archaeological Survey of India show that Taj Mahal had attracted 4.18 million Indian tourists and 624,000 foreign travellers, in 2010. Compared to other monuments in Agra circle, this ‘crown of buildings’ was the biggest crowd puller. The latest makeover activities are taken up
Funds from entrance tickets to various
Government departments have been asked to coordinate and provide amenities for
monuments collected by the Agra
by the district authorities, in cooperation with
tourists and streamline infrastructure, to
Development Authority would be used to give
the Uttar Pradesh Tourism Department. They
attract tourists to major destinations. Facilities
a makeover, to the police image. The Tourist
have finalised a number of schemes that
at Bateshwar Ghats are being upgraded and
Thana on Fatehabad road, a special police
would broadbase facilities for the visitors.
better connectivity will be provided. Recently,
station for registering tourists’ complaints, will
the Yamuna Aarti, like in Haridwar and
also get a new look.
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Incredible, indeed!
Take a journey with Anil Mathew, to know why India is incredible
A
mong Asian coun tries, what is it that makes India a favourite hot destination for travellers? The question is being raised at almost all international and national forums. The answer is quite simple - It’s simply incredible! Be it its hospitality rooted in the concept of ‘athiti devo bhava’, diversity of culture, green mountain ranges, wildlife, pristine beaches and backwaters, elegant monuments or colourful festivals,
there is only one word to describe them, incredible! And travellers from across the globe often flock to its different destinations, to experience this incredible land. The magnetic power of the country is that its visitors often feel like revisiting the magic land, to experience more of India, in a way that will make them content. But, it’s really difficult to have enough of India experience. The more one explores it, the more one wants to explore it!
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The incredibility of this land is always on the rise, as there is a constant endeavour from the part of the public and private sectors, to propel its tourism infrastructure. The stress is always on improving the products, services and amenities for the travellers, be it domestic or foreign. Its 28 states are working together with a single objective – ‘retain the incredibility of India’! And, in their quest to achieve this goal, what emerges is the rare ‘unity in
diversity’, another incredible aspect of the country. While the very name India conjures up the images of India Gate, Taj Mahal, Qutub Minar, Golden Temple, Red Fort, spectacular palaces and sand dunes of Rajasthan, snow capped mountain ranges of Himalaya, splendour of Kashmir valleys, pristine beaches of Goa, backwaters of Kerala and hill stations spread across the country, it would be wrong to assume that the incredibility
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INCREDIBLE INDIA
of India is limited to such known branded products. The country is also home to several pilgrim centres, planned hill cities, entertainment and fun centres, gardens, heritage sites, wildlife sanctuaries and above all a fast growing hospitality sector, where you can feel and experience the very essence of incredible India. Visit any of its state during the festival time and you will know why India is considered as an incredible land. And most likely, one may search for a better ‘phrase’ or ‘term’, to describe India, wondering why it is only known as ‘incredible’, largely out of one’s sheer excitement. Most
of the festivals are conglomeration of religious rituals, colours, music, traditional dances and other art forms, light and sound, and cultural programmes. With all these, the festival atmosphere will surely transport one to another world, at least for a few minutes. It is an opportunity for the travellers to absorb in the rich culture of India and to know the country more intimately. It is more often said that the heart and soul of India can be found in its rural area. Hence, to get the real pulse of the country, it is important that you visit its rural areas. The rustic beauty of the often
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unexplored rural areas should be enchanting to one’s eyes and a memorable experience of a life time. The government has realised the need for developing rural tourism and has initiated several measures to tap this upcoming segment. Despite the sporadic attacks against the tourists here and there, India is still known for its hospitality rooted in the ancient concept of ‘athiti devo bhava’. It simply means that guests will be treated like a God. And, that is the sort of consideration and love that the travellers get from the country’s citizens. Indian hospitality sector, in fact, shape up its products and services, based
on this broad concept. A traditional welcome will be extended to you, at the arrival and you will be provided with the best of its services, with a personal touch. No wonder, if you feel at home, in India. As a traveller, one needs not go in search of known places or destinations, to experience the incredibility of India. It can be found anywhere. Walk through the streets, enjoying junk food and shopping from pedestrian malls. Enjoy the crowd, busyness of cities, calmness of villages and your stay in India will be full of incredible and rare experiences that you can cherish for years. PARTNER COUNTRY
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THE BIG INTERVIEW
New architect of Indian tourism Of late, India has seen a lot of initiatives at propelling its tourism industry. There have been several conferences of tourism ministers and brainstorming sessions to explore the ways to turn the tourism into one of the hottest and happening industries in the country. The man, who anchored all these initiatives, was the Union Tourism Minister Subodh Kant Sahay. Asian Traveller had an opportunity to interact with him, when he arrived in Kollam to inaugurate the Second Southern Regional Conference of Tourism Ministers, recently. In a candid conversation, he shared his plans for the industry and cut a clear picture of the sort of things each state needs to do, for a shining tourism industry. Edited Excerpts: PARTNER COUNTRY HOSPITALITY PARTNER
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According to you, how important a role has every state to play in growing the country’s tourism industry? Tourism industry in India is capable of generating enough employment opportunities for its citizens. So, each state should wake up for this industry. Priority should be given to developing much required infrastructure, with the participation of private sector. Investments from private players are very vital to grow this industry. Then, steps should also be taken to develop potential virgin areas into tourist hot spots, in every state. For this, it is important to have a new policy and a new approach. Central government is ready to join
hands with each state government to develop tourism infrastructure, but we emphasis on developing revenue generating projects through public private partnership (PPP) mode. States must offer something, which attracts private investors. So, it is the responsibility of the states to attract private investors and develop a state policy. Then, every state should ensure that they have a land bank for the tourism sector. You mentioned about creation of infra. Do you have any strategy to develop the same? I want to develop tourism infrastructure on the lines of Jawaharlal Nehru Urban Renewal Mission pattern. We
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THE BIG INTERVIEW have already requested the prime minister to treat tourism as an infrastructure sector, in the national level. How do you look at the tourism industry and what are your plans for the industry? It is a business venture and not a luxury venture, for the states and private players. The states and private sector should realise this aspect. So, our approach is to just give them a proper perspective of the industry. We are a country known for generating tourism economy and therefore each state should perform well. Today’s visitors will be tomorrow’s investors. Hence, it is important to sell ourselves as a brand and for this quality infrastructure is required. We should eye economic prosperity and it should be our goal. As of now, we are attracting just five million arrivals, when the inbound market is as huge as one billion. The situation should change. Our immediate focus is on doubling the numbers. Each state should work to double the arrivals and compete to draw more arrivals than its neighbouring states. I am sure such a healthy competition would turn the corner in favour of us. Besides, things such as connectivity, infrastructure
and hygiene should be taken care of. Since it is a business venture, can’t we brand certain components such as wellness tourism? Wellness tourism, especially ayurveda, should be marketed in a business model. I understand that efforts are being made to market it as a brand. But I don’t think that this branding is done in the proper way. What is important is proper marketing. According to you, what all initiatives should be taken to draw more arrivals to the country? The demand for budget hotels is very high, as a large number of the foreign travellers are budget oriented
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tourists. They have a budget oriented concept and if we are targeting to double the foreign arrivals, we need at least five lakh hotel rooms in the coming five years. Besides a tourism based on ‘atithi devo bhava’, we are also promoting a mixed tourism, incorporating components such as wellness, medical, and meetings, incentives, conferences and events (MISE). As of now, we don’t have in any city an arrangement to provide a glimpse of India to the tourists. It is another area, I am working on. When we create tourism related infra, don’t you think that measures should simultaneously be taken to address the issue of shortage of skilled manpower? There is, of course, shortage of skilled workforce in the tourism industry and hospitality sector. Realising the need of the hour, we have launched an initiative called ‘Hunar Se Rozgar Tak’, to impart training and create skilled employees. If any state, private institute, organiser or hotel wants to develop this
course or in that matter impart training to the eligible candidates, we are ready to lend our support. Have you ever thought of focusing on rural tourism? We want to develop rural tourism in a cluster mode, grouping four or five villages. We will surely work on this, at the earliest. When it comes to southern states, don’t you think taxation is a contentious issue that demands your attention? I must say that southern states are having a large taxation, compared to the northern states. I personally feel that southern states can attract at least 1000 more domestic tourists every year, if they solve the issue of taxation. Both the stakeholders and investors are discontent over this issue. In the next sitting on goods and services tax (GST) system, I will see to it that the taxation in the tourism industry is limited to eight per cent (under GST system), which is now anywhere between 20-23 per cent, in some southern states. PARTNER COUNTRY
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INDIAN PANORAMA
Watching wildlife in their natural habitat can be a rare experience. So, pack your bags to Nilgiris, where 'kurunji' flowers bloom every twelve years, as visiting this hill station will not only provide you an exciting opportunity to explore wildlife, but also a memorable experience of a life time, writes Lekshmi P
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ASIAN TRAVELLER
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INDIAN PANORAMA
Wild beauty of Blue Mountains
N
hills, fantastically narrow valleys, numerous streams and rivulets running in all directions and a few fine waterfalls here and there. Situated at the junction of the two ghat ranges of the Sahayadri, high above the sea level, this hill station is also a trekker’s paradise. The Nilgiris is home to popular hill stations such as Munnar, Ponmudi, Ooty, Kotagiri and Coonoor, providing ideal bases for exciting treks into the mountains. Take a trek, as it will be full of thrill, excitement and adventure. Besides, it’s the best way to see and enjoy the nature in all its beauty and splendour. The height of the hills in this part of Western Ghats is in the range of 2,280-2,290 metres and hence once one is at the top of a hill, one can enjoy a fascinating view. One can see Kerala on the west, Mysore on the north and Coimbatore on the east. At 2,623 metres, Doddabetta is the highest mountain in the Nilgiri Hills. Sholas cover its
slopes, adding to the attractiveness of this highest peak that is remarkable for the flattened curve of its summit. Hecuba, Kattadadu and Kulkudi are closely linked peaks, in the west of Doddabetta range and nearby Udhagamandalam (Ooty), headquarters of Nilgiris. The beauty of this blue mountain range also lies in its waterfalls. The most popular waterfalls in Nilgiris are Kolakambai falls, Halashana falls, Catherine falls, Pykara falls and the Karteri falls. The highest waterfall is Kolakambai, with an unbroken fall of 400 feet. Kolakambai lies to the east of Devashola, and Bhavani valley and the famous Lambton’s peak range stretch from here. Besides hill stations at various altitudes, dense forests, rushing streams, undulating emerald green plains, breath-taking view of sudden drops and glades, this veritable fairyland is also known for the tea gardens
that are beautiful to watch. Here, tea is grown at the elevation of around 1,000 metres to 2,500 metres. Some of the popular tea estates in Nilgiri include Tiger Hill, Corsley, Craigmore, Pascoes Woodlands, Colacumby, Green Hills, Nonsuch Dunsandale, Chamraj, Parkside and Glendale. Nilgiri teas are often referred to as ’the fragrant ones’. A visit to the Nilgiris is never complete, until and unless one explores the wildlife in it. Here you can see ‘gaur’, a large bovine native to South Asia and Southeast Asia. Gaur (a different genre of bison) are said to look like water buffalo, at the front and domestic cattle, at the back. They are the heaviest and most powerful of all wild
Photo: Salim Pushpanath
ilgiris isn’t just a range of mountains spread across the states of Tamil Nadu, Karnataka and Kerala, known for the ‘kurunji’ flower, which blooms every twelve years, giving the slopes a bluish tinge. It’s also a place, where Indian gaurs, tahrs, leopards, langurs, elephants, barking deers, porcupines, sloth bears and snakes inhabit and roam freely, making it one of the prominent wildlife destinations in India. While it requires a long wait to see ‘kurunji’ flowers, one can visit the Blue Mountains at any time of the year, to experience the beauty of this mountain ranges and the wildlife in it. However, it’s highly recommended that one visit this part of the Western Ghats, when ‘kurunji’ flowers bloom, as it will be a memorable experience of a lifetime. What’s most attractive about Nilgiris is the charm it derives from its natural setting. Its beautiful scenery encompasses within it steep
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INDIAN PANORAMA
cattle and are amongst the largest living land animals. The species is listed as vulnerable on the IUCN Red List, since 1986. This mountain range also has endemic species in Nilgiri tahr, Nilgiri langur and Nilgiri marten. Generally found in the southern portion of the Western Ghats, Nilgiri tahrs are stocky goats with short, coarse fur and a bristly mane. Usually, males are larger than the females but both sexes have curved horns, which are larger in the males. It is the state animal of Tamil Nadu. A fully grown male Nilgiri tahr stands about 100 cm at the shoulder and weighs about 100 kg. The overall colour of the tahr is a deep chocolate brown. Another endemic species in its bag is Nilgiri langur. This primate has glossy black fur on its body and golden brown PARTNER COUNTRY HOSPITALITY PARTNER
20
fur on its head. However, the female ones have a white patch of fur on the inner thigh. Langur is similar in size and long tailed like the gray langurs. Nilgiri langurs usually live in troops of five to 16. This species is found in evergreen or deciduous forests. One can also watch Barking deer in the dense jungles of Nilgiri. This shy and elusive member of the deer family, grow to a height of 50-75 Cms. and weigh 20-30 Kgs. These types of deers have two raised dark ridges on the forehead that extend into their antlers. Unlike other deer species, Barking deers possess a pair of antlers as well as overgrown canines known as tushes. Antlers and canines are often used as weapons, when these species come across enemies. Sloth bear is another
attraction that one can find in Blue Mountains. Sloth bear’s body is normally 150-190 cm long and it is covered in auburn to black long shaggy fur. These bears have lankier builds, distinctive ‘V’ shaped white mark on the chest, whitish snout, black nose, long sickle shaped claws and a specially adapted lower lip. Then, if you are lucky enough, you can spot Nilgiri marten, the only species of marten found in southern India. It is similar to the yellow-throated marten, but is larger and its structure of the skull is entirely different, as it has a visible frontal concavity. It is black in colour and has a yellow to orange bright throat. Nilgiris is also home to wildlife like elephants, leopards, porcupine, etc. It is worth taking a stroll through
TRAVEL PARTNER
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INDIAN PANORAMA the jungles, to spot the wildlife, as they roam freely in their natural abode. For those who love bird watching, this mountain range has a lot to offer, as it has in it Kingfisher, Brahminy Kite, Shrike, Pied Bushchat, Woodpecker, etc. Make sure that you watch Brahminy Kite, as it is distinctive and contrastingly coloured, with chestnut plumage except for the white head and breast and black wing tips. Don’t conclude that Nilgiris is famous only for its picturesque scenery and wildlife. Its annual tea and tourism festival is very popular and usually draws tens of thousands of tourists. Then, a summer festival is held every year in the month of May, in the Botanical Gardens. The main attractions of the summer festival include flower show and adventure sports like trekking and camping. To reach this holiday spot, one can take air, rail or road route. The nearest airport is in Coimbatore, about 100 Kms away. One can take a direct flight to Coimbatore from Chennai, Kozhikode, Cochin, Trivandrum, Bangalore, Mumbai, etc. Nearest railway junction is Mettupalayam (46 Kms away), while major railway station is Coimbatore. Whichever mode of transport you take, make sure that you come to Mettupalayam, as you can take the toy train, to reach your destination. Take the Nilgiri mountain railway service and it would be an ideal way to begin your holiday in the hills. As the train goes up hill and down valley, through tea estates and tunnels, one can enjoy the naked beauty of nature, at its best. TRAVEL PARTNER
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SEPTEMBER 2011
Photo Courtesy: Praveen Muraleedharan, TeamEco Ventures. TeamEco Ventures brings together myriad custom-made options like wildlife and photography tours, adventure and leisure holidays, camps and treks as well as educational and special interest tours. PARTNER COUNTRY HOSPITALITY PARTNER
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EXCULSIVE INTERVIEW
Tourism industry has always brought cheers to Kerala’s economy. In spite of its success, the state has never been complacent. It always had its focus on improving the tourism infrastructure and developing new destinations. And, the contribution of its successive tourism ministers to the development of its tourism industry deserves special mention. Now, the state has an enthusiastic and determined tourism minister in A P Anil Kumar, who has set his eyes on promoting clean, hygienic and responsible tourism in the state. In an interview to Asian Traveller, he unveiled his plans for the state’s tourism industry. Edited Excerpts:
An advocate of responsible tourism After taking charge as the state’s
the tourism industry in Kerala. The
pipeline. Then, we understand
foreign travellers. If we want to
tourism minister, what are the
government has taken a positive
that Malabar, despite its tourism
increase the number of arrivals,
important things that grabbed
stand in this regard and we are
potential, has not yet found a
we should address this
your immediate attention?
ready to work towards the goal of
place in Kerala’s tourism circuit.
contentious issue. Otherwise, it
a clean, hygienic and responsible
According to a recent survey, 90
may impact the domestic arrivals.
done in the tourism field but the
tourism.
per cent of the international and
Do you have any plans to attract
ministry has got its own
We understand that there are
domestic tourists are interested in
cottage industry to the tourism
limitations. It was those limitations
several issues to be solved, to
exploring certain destinations in
field?
that came to my attention, as soon
propel the state’s tourism
the area. In Malabar, Wayanad
as I assumed office. For instance,
industry. How do you plan to go
and Bakel hold a lot of tourism
about the same.
consider the tourism industry in
about it?
potential, while Nila can be
The chief minister said in 100
developed into a heritage site of
days tourism policy will be
There are several things to be
Ponmudi.
We cannot address all the
We are seriously thinking
issues, at a time. So, as a first
Bharathapuzha. Nila has given us
announced. Where do you stand
falls within the ambit of the KTDC
step, we will be focusing on
a culture and it is important to
now?
properties. And, the land with us
destinations such as Alappuzha,
preserve that culture. Also, there
is very limited. The rest of the land
Kovalam, Munnar, Varkala and a
is a need to develop a tourism
draft of the tourism policy.
is with the forest department.
few other places, where foreign
culture centered on Malabar.
Developing infrastructure is one of
Almost similar situation exists in
tourists often arrive in large
Don’t you think that air
the focus areas. Then, we are
Kovalam. The beach is
numbers. The priority will always
connectivity and exorbitant
planning to initiate talks with
under the control of the port. It
be given to addressing the
charges are a major hurdle to the
political parties and trade unions
has allowed the private sector to
complaints of foreign travellers.
growth of domestic tourism?
to work out an arrangement to
install umbrella in the beach, who
Our plan is to turn these
The developed area largely
We have released the first
Certainly, air connectivity is a
exempt the tourism industry from
in turn charge Rs 100 from the
destinations into clean tourist
problem. Travelling from Delhi to
hartals. Besides, efforts would be
visitors, for using the same. But,
spots and we will be giving more
Singapore or from Delhi to
made to tap tourism markets in
the tourism department is
importance to Alappuzha.
Malaysia or Bangkok is cheaper,
USA, China, Russia, Malaysia and
answerable to such things, though
However, I must say, our plans
compared to flying from Delhi to
Scandinavia.
we are not responsible for such
can only be carried out with the
Cochin, or Trivandrum.
A single window system for
acts.
help from local self government
I admit that one of the main
investors was announced five
and other local bodies. The
problems that domestic tourism
years back. Where does it stand
ordination (between) and
tourism department will surely
facing is air connectivity. Last year
today?
cooperation of various
take the leadership role and
we drew around 8.5 lakh domestic
departments are a must to grow
execute the plans that are in the
travellers and about 6.5 lakh
Given the status quo, co-
PARTNER COUNTRY HOSPITALITY PARTNER
22
We will surely consider this and take it forward.
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SEPTEMBER 2011
Q&A
Hanneli Slabber, does not mince words when she says that there are no shortcuts to success, but a constant strive towards achieving one’s goal and a never ending desire for learning, to keep one self abreast with the latest developments in one’s walk of work. She is ambitious and is the one with a burning desire to do her bit to propel her country’s tourism sector, as she climbs the ladder of success, in her professional life. Read more… What attracted you to travel and
implementing marketing
tourism business? Please take us
strategies, creating awareness on
through the early days of your
South African Tourism, monitoring
career.
the market trends, building trade
I am an Applied Anthropologist
engagements and improving the
by profession, with an honours
destination image of South Africa,
degree from the University of
in India.
Pretoria. I started my career in hotels, before moving into sales and marketing. Experiential marketing for both inbound and outbound companies followed, before I took up the role of Head, Contiki Holidays. At Contiki
Taking on this exciting role has
Hanneli Slabber Country Head , South African Tourism-India
Holidays, I groomed myself and
been a great opportunity for me,
looking back, now I feel it offered
as India is one of the world’s
travel professionals, to promote,
confident of meeting our targets
a great learning experience, for
fastest growing economies. We at
plan and organise quality holidays
for the present year and are
me. After mastering a lot about
South African Tourism see India as
in South Africa, customised to
working towards the goal of one
travel and tourism, I moved to
one of our core and biggest
client requirements. Given the
lakh tourist arrivals from India, by
South African (SA) Tourism and I
source markets. It is a key market
increasing growth and potential of
2012. Also, we are well aware of
consider this as my best career
that has immense potential. India
tier II cities in India from a tourism
the power of the film industry in
move. I joined SA Tourism as its
is also one of the most
perspective, besides exploring the
influencing purchase decisions
Global Head – Product. Over the
competitive markets, when it
regular metro cities, we shall
and hence, we are taking a
past couple of years, I have
comes to travel and tourism
continue our focus on tapping this
serious look at engaging the film
further expanded my learning
business. The combination of
market. This year, we have
industry in the near future.
horizon on SA Tourism and they
humongous opportunity and
ventured into newer cities such as
As a hospitality industry
have rewarded me with the
competitive environment that India
Nagpur, Rajkot and Coimbatore.
professional, what is your
current position, as the Country
has, makes my role extremely
Head in India.
exciting and challenging.
map such newer budding markets
see yourself, say, ten years from
Would you cut a clear picture of
What plans - immediate and long
and explore their potential,
now?
the task cut out for you, as the
term - do you have?
through our marketing
Country Head in India? In my current role, the
We will be concluding our ‘Learn South Africa’ module II, in a
We will continue our efforts to
ambition? Where would you like to
I am ambitious to create better
programmes like promotional
processes that will enable us to
campaigns and other such
put the wonderful and unique
foremost focus is to promote
few days time. ‘Learn South Africa’ activities. We have in our pipeline
offerings of our rainbow nation on
South Africa, as a preferred
is a comprehensive knowledge
several exciting promotional plans
the global map. My top priority, in
destination among the potential
session conducted to assist trade
and activities for the Indian
my things-to-do-list, is making
Indian travellers. I also play an
partners, in improving efficiency
market, which will be rolled out in
India the biggest inbound market
integral role in developing and
and profitability. It aims to train
the coming months. We are
PARTNER COUNTRY HOSPITALITY PARTNER
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Page 26
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SEPTEMBER 2011
FACE TO FACE
Propeller of sustainable tourism How do you see Kerala as a tourism destination? What all things should be taken care of to pull more tourists to the state and maintain its good name? I am an admirer and lover of Kerala. If I am correct, it is my 18th visit to the God’s own country. I have trekked almost all the forests in Kerala, including the ones in Ernakulum, Thekkady, Silent Valley, Agasthyamalai, Wayanad and Parambikulam. I have been to all these places and I like the state, its people and I would say, it is the only state in India, which is having some discipline and hygiene. However, you must see to it that domestic and foreign tourists, visiting the state, are properly taken care of. Also, equal stress should be given to sustainable tourism. For instance, while taking the travellers for a boat cruise, it is important to ensure there are enough lifejackets and at least a guard, to protect the lives of the visitors. If one accident occurs, that may badly affect the prospects and name of a destination. Do you think that the on-going financial crisis will affect the growth prospects of India’s tourism industry? If yes, how can we lessen its effect on the industry? Indian tourism, as you know, has been on the growth path for the last two years. There was a sharp fall in foreign visitors, when the global economy took a downward dive. Now, there is again a financial crisis going on and it is early days to say whether the crunch would have any impact on the country’s tourism industry. Our main strength, however, is domestic tourism and crores of people move all over the country, every year. So, the effect of the economic crisis should be minimal. But, we have to improve the infrastructure and increase the number of budget hotels where one can get a room between Rs 500 and Rs1000, so as to
accommodate travellers from middle class, who cannot afford high-end luxury hotels. Besides, measures should be taken to promote sustainable, honourable and safe tourism. Ensure that taxi drivers are behaving properly to the visitors and tourists guides are carrying out their task, without cheating the travellers. According to you, what is sustainable tourism is all about? When we talk about sustainability, among other things, we are talking about the carrying capacity of a destination. The good example of sustainable tourism in Kerala, which I know personally, is Munnar. The Rajamally Tourism Zone of Ernakulum National Park,is another example. There is an entrance gate and you can control the number of visitors. If too many tourists are allowed inside, it will be crowded more than its capacity and the number of vehicles carrying the travellers will also go up, creating pollution, affecting the health of the people. So, it has to be sustainable. We are here to help all the states in improving infrastructure, in improving connectivity and we are very happy to help in the development of mega circuits, mega destination and rural tourism. Going by the arrival figures in the first half of the year, what do you think is in store for the country’s tourism industry, for the remaining half of the year? This year, the figures are robust. There is an eight per cent increase in foreign tourist arrivals and from January to July this year, the country has seen 3.9 million foreign tourists. When it comes to domestic tourists, it is mostly visits, but has seen an eight per cent increase in the visits. Last year, the country recorded 5.58 million tourists and this year it will definitely cross 6
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SEPTEMBER 2011
The tourism industry is keenly watching the debt crisis in the Europe and US, fearing another possible fall in foreign arrivals, after the recession in 2008-09. To make up for the possible drop in arrivals, the government has already initiated measures to boost domestic tourism, by promoting inter-state tourism and attracting more local visits. In this wake, Rajen Habib Khwaja, Secretary, Ministry of Tourism, india, feels that the emphasis should be on sustainable tourism. In an interview to Asian Traveller, he defined the term sustainable tourism, shared his long term plans for the country’s tourism industry and stressed on the need to improve the tourism infra in India. He is fond of Kerala and do not hesitate to admit it and speak highly about the God’s own country. Edited Excerpts:
Page 26 PARTNER COUNTRY HOSPITALITY PARTNER
25
Q&A Page 24
Roshene Singh, CMO of South
many times that ‘never stop
African Tourism, taught me to
learning’! Well, this may sound
for South Africa. If the reports
manage the outcome of my
clichéd but being inquisitive and
appeared in various media in 2009
decisions.
curious will help you go the extra
are any indication, tourism
As a woman, what were the
mile. Read, read and read, not
contributed 2.8 per cent, i.e.,
challenges you had to face in
only the works of people you
my team received the award for
R67990 million to the total South
your career? Do you’ve any
agree with, but also of the people
the best region and I cherish the
African gross domestic product
advice to young girls, who want to
coming from left-field, according
moment as fresh as it happened
and provided employment to
enter this industry?
to your perspective.
yesterday. Moving ahead, SATSA
Do you mind disclosing the secret
bestowed me with the personality
of your success?
of the year (2010) award and this
538394 people, i.e., to the 4.1 per
I would consider myself lucky
cent of its total population.
and fortunate, as my professional
Tourism is an important source of
life began during the period South
revenue for the South African
Africa achieved independence. It
that rigorously, it has been my
cherished, both personally and
economy and ten years from now I
provided us with immense
mantra of success. Today, we
professionally. In my stint with
would like this figures to grow
opportunity to get to know the
have moved up the ladder
South African Tourism, I received
manifold. I definitely see myself as
world around us and pick up the
because we have realised that the
the Manager of the Year (2010)
an important contributor, in
best of what other constitutions
more we mingle and fuse with
award. However, the icing on the
driving this growth. It may sound
had to provide.
others, the more we grow as a
cake moment came, when Fair
nation. So, the way in which one
Trade in Tourism South Africa
very ambitious, but even if I am
I have come across many
Plan a schedule and follow
is again a moment to be
able to contribute a fraction to it,
young girls, who are very
carries out a particular task is
welcomed me on their
then my purpose is served.
professional in their approach at
most important. According to me,
accreditation board. All these
When you look back now, do you
work, which is a good quality that
our success has been achieved by
awards imply that as an individual
recall the faces that have exerted
I would recommend everyone to
attracting tourists and travellers to
I have been able to leave an
an influence in your professional
develop. Remember one thing, we
participate in experiencing this
indelible mark in the life of many.
life?
are our own competitors and
beautiful rainbow nation! SA
Many of us want to make a
I had the opportunity to work
should always strive to make
Tourism believes in building the
contribution to the society, to the
with some of the best minds in the
ourselves better. If you have
future, after laying down a strong
community and to the lives of the
travel and tourism sector. It has
achieved a feat, think how you
foundation.
people around us. In this context,
been a great learning journey, for
can now strive for the next level.
Will you share with us the
what is important is learning how
me. At Starfish Foundation, I
Keep abreast with the latest
proudest moment (till date) in
to serve them better.
learnt that one can save the world
happening of your industry or field
your job?
Your hobbies?
by saving one person at a time. At
of work. This will not only add to
TravCorp, its MD Dave Hosking
your knowledge bank, but will
far, there have been many
music and Blues is my favourite
taught me to see the bigger
also provide you an impetus to
moments that have made me feel
genre. I am a diehard fan of Gary
picture and to get on with it. Then,
improve yourself. We have heard
proud. While working with Contiki,
Moore and a complete foodie.
In my professional journey so
I am an avid reader, fond of
Propeller of sustainable tourism... hence we have to improve our infrastructure, be it roads, million, until and unless the railways, busses, taxi, economic crisis plays a airports, etc., and ensure spoilsport. As you know, better connectivity. By the Europe and America are in word ‘honourable’I mean trouble. travellers should not be Do you have any long term cheated by banks, guides, plans to take the country’s autowalas, etc. Then, tourism to the next level of sustainable is all about growth? If yes, please share limiting the tourists to an them with us. area, taking its capacity into To me, long term plans are account or to the number the all about three words (aspects) area can sustain. Otherwise, a – safe (ty), honourable and destination is likely to sustainable tourism. We must gradually loose its beauty. If make tourists feel secure and Munnar loses its charm, it will Page 25
PARTNER COUNTRY HOSPITALITY PARTNER
26
not be a destination anymore. So, Munnar should remain Munnar and Thekkady should remain Thekkady. Besides, a lot of incentives should be given to the local stakeholders, the people living around a (potential) destination. They should feel that they are getting some benefits. Otherwise, they may oppose certain development activities. For instance, if a big hotel is coming up in a destination, it should employ some locals in the area. By doing so, we are taking the
benefits (of tourism growth) to the society. Which are the states doing well in this industry? The main six states doing well in tourism industry are Sikkim, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh and Gujarat. Any advise to the state tourism departments? Let us work together, as a one family and with one vision and one mission. That should be the spirit of Indian tourism and our very slogan.
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SEPTEMBER 2011
MUNICH
Cheers!
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ASIAN TRAVELLER
SEPTEMBER 2011
MUNICH For all beer lovers, Krishnadas P gets the details of the world’s fabulous beer festival
O
ffering a befitting treat to
and lots of beer. After two
can come and enjoy the very best
beer bottles at Classics, the tasty
all beer lovers to bask in
centuries of practice, Munich has
of beer with the like-minded
gingerbread hearts.
and enjoy, the most
perfected the world's biggest
people. Characterized by a distinct
A popular souvenir is the annually published Oktoberfest
famous Oktoberfest, the world's
festival, rubbing shoulders with
largest beer festival has begun in
designer shopping, sleek cars and
mix of high-tech nostalgia of
stein, in a new design. The design
Munich, the gracious German city.
high-powered industry.
spectacular large rides such as
of this classic is now over 100
the Olympia Looping or the
years and the printed design
festival for 16 to 18 days that
Bavarian culture, Oktoberfest is
Höllenblitz, the Oktoberfest has
changes every year: the
attracts over five million people
Munich's largest event wherein
many other funfair attractions with
Oktoberfest poster. There are also
every year adds flavour to Munich
the legendary breweries every
a venerable fairground tradition
official mugs available at most
and is celebrated from September
year cordially invite all to join the
that can only be found at the
souvenir stalls. Additionally, many
17 to October 3, this year.
A significant part of the
This cherished traditional annual
festivities. Drink beer by the litre
Wiesn, such as the Krinoline (old-
innkeepers have their own tents
The most popular alcoholic
and enjoy the traditional Bavarian
fashioned merry-go-round), the
selling beer steins with
beverage across the world, beer is
delicacies such as pretzels with a
Teufelsrad ("Devil's Wheel"), the
Oktoberfest motifs.
Bavaria's Prince Ludwig. Ludwig
diameter of 15 inches, the
Toboggan, and the Schichtl Variety
married Princess Therese von
Bavarians say. In all merry, listen
Show, the latter being a true
enough of the spirit of Oktoberfest
Sachsen-Hildburghausen on
to live brass bands playing
Oktoberfest institution.
when the atmosphere in a beer
October 12, 1810, but the soiree
traditional Bavarian music and
lasted for five days of Munich-
enjoy yourself with hundreds of
collectibles for the souvenir fans
fortunately, there is "the meadow
wide celebrations with the finest
other people from across the
to express their enthusiasm. Hats,
tent" at Stiglmaierplatz. The
craft beer parties and horse rides.
world, dancing and singing in all
either decorated with beer barrels,
Oktoberfest Party" at the Hall of
The party was immensely popular
glory for hours.
cow horns or lions, are popular
Benno Löwenbräukeller will
objects to buy. The Bavarian
continue and will give up in the
next only to water and tea in terms of consumption levels. This beverage is the preferred treat for wedding parties and for almost all functions in Munich. Just an hour's drive from the snow-crusted Alps that frame it so beautifully and lend it an air of enchantment is Munich, the Bavarian capital on the Isar River with its strong traditional roots. It's Baroque and Rococo architecture, its verdant parks, museums and historic venues such as Schloss Nymphenburg - the summer palace of the rulers of Bavaria, are the favored haunts of tourists and locals alike. The origin of this beer festival dates back to the days of Bavaria's Prince. When it comes to nuptial partying and no-holdsbarred weddings, no one tops
Oktoberfest in Munich is once
with locals, and they decided to
In addition, there are also
For those who can't get
tent reaches its climax,
repeat it the following year, sans
in a lifetime activity of epic
emblem in the form of cuddly
early morning hours. Quite
ceremony.
proportions and the most special
plush lion is a frequently
literally, the best way to enjoy
highlight of the festival are the
purchased gift. The festival
Oktoberfest is to book and plan
Oktoberfest has grown up into a
Beer Tents. Here, specially made
grounds has a collection of many
your Oktoberfest Tour in advance.
16-day spectacular extravaganza
beer is served which is different
curiosities displayed, such as
Oktoberfest is truly awesome,
of parades, rides, entertainment,
both in flavor and alcohol content
marmots, golf balls with the
massive and enormous fun -
food, culture, attractions and lots
than the usual variety of beer. One
portrait of Ludwig II or a tin lid for
experience it to believe it!
From such humble beginnings
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SEPTEMBER 2011
PARTNER COUNTRY HOSPITALITY PARTNER
29
MUNICH
Shopper’s paradise
N
ot every destination can
Germany, is an inspiring mix of
Neuhauser Strasse, Marienplatz,
be described as a
historic buildings and impressive
etc. It’s the heart of Munich’s
shopper’s paradise. But
architecture and therefore your
pedestrian zone and here you can
Munich can rightly be referred to
stay here will be a memorable
explore one big store after
as a destination for shopaholics.
one, for reasons more than one.
another and stroll through the
So, if your intention is more than
More than 60 million people from
branches of well-known chain-
all over the world reportedly visit
stores. There are fashionable
Munich every year, taken up by
clothes, shoes, souvenir shops,
the fascinating mixture of the
record stores and jewels, to
Bavarian tradition, an
choose from.
extraordinary cultural life and interesting shopping facilities. Munich has got a lot to offer to
just travelling, visit the Rome of
Kaufingerstrasse is one of Rome of Germany’s main shopping streets and in fact, one
the travellers, in terms of
could call it the shopping street of
traditional stores and the world’s
Munich. It is today Germany’s
most creative shops. The city’s
second busiest shopping street,
shops, besides traditional
visited by almost every tourist,
Bavarian crafts, offer international
either for shopping or for enjoying
brands and designer goods. One
the beauty of the architecture.
can easily combine shopping with
Added attraction of
sightseeing, since most places of
Kaufingerstrasse is the Augustiner
interest in the old town are within
Bierkeller, one of Munich’s most
walking distance.
famous beer halls. Neuhauser
One can see a beeline of
Strasse, part of the Old Town area,
Germany, as it is popularly called,
shoppers from across the globe in
is also a must visit as it boasts of
and feast the shopaholic in you.
the Old Town area that
several noteworthy buildings -
Munich, capital city of Bavaria,
encompasses Kaufingerstrasse,
Karlstor, Bürgersaal, Alte Akademie, splendid old Michaelskirche and the Deutsche Jagd- und Fischereimuseum (hunting and fishing museum). After exploring the Old Town area, it is worth taking a walk across the ‘Victuals Market’, for a sensual revelation. Stalls here not only offer the freshest fruits and vegetables in Munich, but also
30
ASIAN TRAVELLER
SEPTEMBER 2011
MUNICH unlimited parking, a roof over your
and restaurants, if you desire a
head and lots of shops and
shopping break in between.
restaurants, for spending a nice
For all those high-end
time at any weather. One of the
splurges, head to
biggest malls in Munich is the
Maximilianstrasse, one of the
Riem Arcaden. With its 120 stores,
city’s four royal avenues. The
the Riem Arcaden ranks among
western portion of
the most popular shopping
Maximilianstrasse is known for its
centres, on the east side of
galleries, designer shops, luxury
Munich. As far as fashion and
boutiques, jewellery stores and
lifestyle are concerned, from
Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten
modern fashion houses to trendy
Kempinski, one of Munich’s
shoe shops, perfumeries,
leading five-star hotels. If you are
jewellers’ and opticians’ shops,
planning to visit this place, make
traditional Bavarian Schweinshaxe
hand books from shops on
Riem Arcaden offer a large
sure that you carry a huge bag
and speck. Seafood, delicious
Schellingstraße, Türkenstraße or
selection of stores, for every taste.
because brands here are hard to
cheeses from all over Europe,
nearby streets. Here, one can
Electronic and photographic
resist. Some of the brands to look
herbs, honey products, sushi and
explore some of the oldest pubs
equipment shops, bookshops and
out for are Chanel, Dior, Gucci,
hand-made straw puppets are
in Munich and a number of
stationery stores extend the
Dolce and Gabbana, Louis
also available at Victuals Market.
affordable boutiques, for a true
goods on offer at the Riem
Vuitton, Hugo Boss, Gianfranco
For all those who appreciate
Bavarian experience.
Arcaden to leisure time and
Ferre and Versace. It’s pricey and
household items. It also offers a
pretentious, but no trip to Munich
host of cafés, ice-cream parlours
would be complete without a
Munich is known for big
culinary seduction of the senses, this is the perfect place to spend
shopping malls, which often offer
your lunch break and buy those
saunter down Maximilianstrasse,
rare, special herbs and spices that
one of the city’s grandest
can’t be found anywhere else in
boulevards. Several of Munich’s
the region.
finest theatrical venues, including
If you enjoy searching second-
the Nationaltheater, the
hand markets and hunting for
Kammerspiele and the Kleine
treasures, then the flea markets
Komödie am Max II, are also here.
here are perfect to saunter,
Munich with its air of polished
rummage and discover curios. You
prosperity is quintessential
will certainly find something old,
Germany. The old and the new co-
new, exceptional or useful and
exist here with cherished
bump into some interesting
traditions like Oktoberfest, the
people, in the process. Another
world’s largest beer festival,
exciting place to go shopping is
rubbing shoulders with designer
Glockenbachviertel, clearly one of
shopping, sleek cars and high-
Munich’s most picturesque
powered industry.
boroughs. It harbours fashionable
The Bavarian capital on the
bars as well as snug bistros and
Isar river has strong roots in the
attracts young people from all
past. Its Baroque and Rococo
walks of life.
architecture, lush parks, museums
Also, make sure that you
and historic venues such as
discover the three State Art
Schloss Nymphenburg, the
Galleries (the Pinakotheken) and
summer palace of the rulers of
the area close to the Siegestor
Bavaria, are the favoured haunts
(Victory Arch). The place harbours
of tourists and locals alike. This
the main building of Ludwig-
gracious German city is just an
Maximilians-Universität (university
hour’s drive from the snow-
of Munich) and several of its
crusted Alps that frame it so
departments. You can spot plenty
beautifully and lend it an air of
of students around, searching for
enchantment. So, Munich is the
books, clothes or simply relaxing
place for you, if you are
and enjoying a cup of coffee.
passionate about both shopping
Moreover, you can pick second-
and sightseeing.
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PARTNER COUNTRY HOSPITALITY PARTNER
31
FACE TO FACE
Championing the incredible India cause
Despite tasting success, Indian tourism industry is working hard to scale new heights. While aggressive marketing strategy is one of the routes it has taken to meet this goal, the country is also giving equal emphasis on the creation of ample tourism infrastructure. Asian Traveller came across Anand Kumar, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Tourism and he was more than enthusiastic to share the initiatives taken by the Ministry of Tourism, to attract more arrivals to the country and address the problems its tourism industry faces. Edited Excerpts:
How do you see the tourism potential of the country? Do you think that India has fully exploited this potential? Tourism has got a great potential in India and in fact we have not leveraged it to the hilt, so far. We can really cash in on it for the employment generation and inclusive growth of the country. To be frank, we have exploited only a miniscule of the tourism potential and we have got a long way to go. According to you, what sort of marketing strategy we need, to realise our full potential? We need to do aggressive marketing for various destinations/products and expand our horizons to lesser known spots. We also need to tap various source markets, according to their interest and visit those markets, from where we receive large number of arrivals. So, what we are going to do is to stop
at one station, to attract travellers from many nations. For example, we went to Geneva recently as the partner host country in Geneva Festival and we were able to target people from several countries, at one stop. Hence, we will be going ahead with this ‘one station, many nations’ programme. What do you think is our USP? Our USP is indeed our warmth and hospitality. India has got in its kitty several fascinating destinations and it is a destination that has something to offer to the travellers, at anytime of the year. So, it is a 365 days destination. Do you mind disclosing the details of budget allocation to the various states of India? We don’t give any specific budget to one particular state. In fact, what we do is individual development. Promotion of tourism is the
PARTNER COUNTRY HOSPITALITY PARTNER
32
basic responsibility of the concerned state and the union territories. However, we provide financial assistance for various tourism infrastructure projects, festivals and events, based on prioritised list that we prepare. If all guidance is met, we provide the financial assistance, as per the interest and seniority. How important a contributor is tourism industry, to the country’s economy? I shall say it is the most important industry and tourism should become our main economic and political agenda. Tourism contributes more than 5.2 per cent to the national gross domestic product (GDP) and around 9.2 per cent, to the employment sector. Hence, I believe tourism can be a main instrument for the inclusive growth of the country and it can really solve the employment related problems
in the nation. Which are the main source markets for India? As of now, our main source markets are US, Canada and Europe. Our potential markets include CIS countries, Middle East, China and the South East Asian countries. In addition, we also have some major emerging markets in our hand. Last year, didn’t we see a dip in the international arrivals? What do you think has caused it? Not really! Last year, we received a growth of around 8.1 per cent, over the previous year. In the first eight months of this year, we have received a growth of over 10 per cent. We hope that we will be able to maintain this positive growth, during the rest of the year. What is your immediate and long term plan to develop India tourism? The ministry, now under
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FACE TO FACE the leadership of Subodh Kant Sahay, wants to have a multi pronged strategy for growing the tourism industry. We want to concentrate on infrastructure, budget hotels and aggressive marketing. We
memorable experience, as it is the best strategy to make them visit the country again and again. So, our plan is to make a visitor revisit India several times and turn him/her into
are also planning to involve community under the RTT campaign, improve cleanliness and hygiene standards and develop tourism in a safe and sustainable manner. The objective is to give the visiting tourists a good and
our brand ambassador. Responsible tourism has been, to a great extent, a success in Kerala. Will you take up this initiative and support it? Of course, yes! The issue of sustainable tourism has been taken up in various regional
PARTNER COUNTRY HOSPITALITY PARTNER
34
conferences, by the union tourism minister and this is, in fact, one of our main agendas. We are talking with the state governments, because unless we develop tourism safe and sustainable, we will be killing this golden goose. When it comes to tourism, India is the highest tax accepting country around world. Will you be taking any step to address this contentious issue? I won’t say it is the highest but our taxes are on the higher side. The minister has taken up this issue with the Prime Minister, Ministry of Finance and also the state governments. We feel that the taxes which affect tourism should be rationalised. Unless we rationalise the taxes, the cost of tourism will always remain very high. The Prime Minister has already promised to minimise the taxes. According to FHRAI, we are running short of 80,000 inventories. How do you plan to address the issue? We have taken up the issue of providing land, at a reasonable cost. It may be worked out on a revenue sharing basis, with the state governments. Tourism minister has also discussed about the concept of tourism parks. Once we develop tourism parks, it will pave way for more infrastructure in the country. We are also focusing on to promote budget hotels. If we have more budget hotels, we will be able to provide accommodation to the travellers, at an affordable cost. Government is allotting free land to develop IT parks. In the same way, why can’t the government provide land to
the tourism industry? Only state governments can take a call on this. We cannot dictate to the state governments, as the land is a state subject. The state can come up with various modules, to keep the tariff of the land very low. They can even consider the option of revenue sharing model, as the state can benefit from it over a long period of time, by keeping the cost of initial investment low. There are different models which can be worked out. If state governments take the initiative, the tourism industry will see wonders. Hospitality industry generates a lot of jobs, directly and indirectly and is the highest revenue making sector for Kerala. But its government is showing interest in the IT sector. What is your take on this? It is the decision of the state government. We can only ask them to try to make a land bank for the tourism related activities. Do you think that there are some factors that stop the government from implementing infrastructure development plans? There is no question of stopping. Actually, we cannot do everything overnight. We cannot create world-class infrastructure all of a sudden. To see the difference, look at where we were a couple of years ago, and where we are now. From 2002 to 2010, we have achieved an enviable growth. Now, industry is becoming proactive. The tourism authority, authorities in the state, the ministry, etc., have realised the usefulness and benefits of tourism industry. So, now we have a different game plan.
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CANADA
Encounter polar bears!
T
here is something about Canada and its natural splendor. The mountains have always been there and in them the polar bears. By taking a world class polar bear tour, one can see the king of the Arctic, in the natural splendor of the great white north. One could, however, turn it into the sweetest of sweet memories, by planning the trip at the right time. Travel to this North American country in October or November and you would be lucky to experience an adventure run, to an otherwise inaccessible area. So, get ready to see the world’s greatest concentration of polar bears, just outside Churchill, Manitoba, this winter fall. It’s a golden opportunity to catch the bears live in action, as they wait for Hudson Bay to freeze over. With the highest concentration occurring in October and November, it is the best season for
viewing polar bears. The life of a polar bear revolves around its favorite food ringed seals and once the Hudson Bay freezes, the polar bears get onto the ice, to hunt for meal. The best way to experience polar bears is to board a tundra buggy, which looks like a converted bus with monster truck-like tires. They roll easily across the semifrozen land and take you out to where there are larger concentrations of bears. In these vehicles, you can get quite close to bears, in relative comfort and safety. In fact, the curious bears often come right up to the vehicle, to see what’s in the vehicle. When you enter the territory of the Northern Royalty, you will be amazed to see the bears standing on their hind legs and peering inside the window of your buggy, or play-fighting in the snow, below. Do make sure that the camera batteries are fully charged, because during high season, you could see dozens of bears, in a single day. After the polar bear tour, explore more of the rugged Hudson Bay coastline, to spot a caribou, Arctic fox, wolf, Arctic hare, lemming, snowy
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SEPTEMBER 2011
owl or gyrfalcon. Also, don’t forget to enjoy a spectacular sunset. While planning your trip, make sure to book one of the specially designed trips,
Don’t forget to find some quality time to spend in the Gypsy’s Restaurant & Bakery, as it’s famous for food and lively conversation. For an unforgettable
which, besides polar bear viewing, allow you to discover the beautiful town of Churchill. Many of the hotelbased adventures offer a well rounded programme, combining polar bear experiences with activities in and around the community of Churchill. Also, pay a visit to the Eskimo Museum, parks and Canada interpretation centre.
experience, book yourself a Tundra Buggy Lodge. It’s a safe haven from the bears and an excellent base for wildlife observation. The warm and casual lodge provides more time for viewing and photography, than any hotel-based trip. Imagine watching the bears, day and night, from inside or outside of the lodge!
PARTNER COUNTRY HOSPITALITY PARTNER
35
TRAVEL
Rock y Mountaineer
An exciting train journey
O
ver the past 20 years, Rocky
average speed of the train is approximately 50
access to an open-air Heritage Observation
Mountaineer has grown to become
Kph.
Car. Rocky Mountaineer offers over 45 unique
the largest privately owned
train vacation packages, including 2 to 25
If you are looking for a customised
passenger rail service in North America and
itinerary for a group of 10 or more, its custom
days on four distinctive rail routes - three rail
has welcomed more than one million guests
group consultants will offer your group a
journeys into the Canadian Rockies and one
onboard, from around the world.
unique and memorable experience. In
spectacular three hour train excursion,
addition, its spectacular meetings and
formerly known as Whistler Mountaineer, from
travel. You can enjoy an extremely comfortable
incentives programme will let you discover a
Vancouver to Whistler. This luxurious train
seat, with ample legroom and enjoy the
unique venue for your business or incentive
travels by daylight through the beauty of
freedom to stretch your legs and enjoy the
function.
Canada’s west and is the best way to
There are many unique features to rail
fresh air, while in the vestibules. With attentive service and outstanding commentary, this
viewing wildlife from the train and during your
leisurely paced travel will surely give you the
stay in Canada’s West, including bear, elk,
feeling that you are on a holiday trip. One of
deer, moose, bald eagles, osprey, salmon,
the greatest advantages, however, is the
mountain goats and bighorn sheep.
ability to travel through areas that are simply
experience the majestic Canadian Rockies,
There are wonderful opportunities for
Banff and Jasper as well as Whistler.
One of the advantages of train travel is the
not accessible by foot, car or motor coach.
spacious room provided to all guests. In
The train passes through routes that are
GoldLeaf Service, SilverLeaf Service and
described as engineering marvels and one
RedLeaf Service, guests can enjoy fresh air
can enjoy rushing rivers, towering waterfalls
outside their coaches. Access to the GoldLeaf
and spectacular river canyons. To truly
Dome coach and adjacent vestibule is limited
appreciate the nature and scenery in this part
to guests, who reserve for this service. Guests
of the world, the Rocky Mountaineer offers the
on the Whistler Sea to Sky Climb route have
very best vantage point. The advantage of the train is that it slows down at the most scenic areas, to offer you the best viewing and camera opportunities. And it is called Kodak speed! While there are areas the train reaches up to 90 Kph, the
PARTNER COUNTRY HOSPITALITY PARTNER
36
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SEPTEMBER 2011
FACE TO FACE
Sky is the limit The Essence of India Of late, certain reports told the story of Leela’s fall, as the news regarding its sale of Kovalam property emerged. However, the move was largely been a strategic one, where players buy property, use it, sell it and manage it for a long time. In an interview to Asian Traveller, Vivek Nair, Vice Chairman and Managing Director, The Leela Palaces and Resorts, talked about the inspiration he drew from his father Captain C P Krishnan Nair, his business plans, etc. Edited Excerpts: How far would the taxation policy
President and this time I represent
affect the tourism sector?
eastern region and the next year, I
had the experience of setting up a
Unni said to my father that he
Indian economy? The sky is the limit and we can
will be representing western
hotel as a chairman. We had
easily grow from five to ten. We
of the best resorts such as ours is
region. I have been holding both
vacant land and bungalows,
need to develop infrastructure.
priced at least 30 per cent lower
these positions for quite long time
besides the textile company. Then,
What are your plans for Leela?
than that of the resorts in Goa,
and I am generally committed to
we thought why can not we use
which are almost 200 meters away
the hotel and the restaurant
the vacant land and develop a
hotels, we are now eyeing the
from the shore. In Kerala, you
federation.
large hotel. Even the airport
eighth one. We will be opening
have resorts facing sea and get
How far your father, who is
authority wanted something to set
one in Chennai, by the end of
better rates and up markets
popularly known as the living
up here, to meet the passenger
December and the property will be
tourists.
legend, inspired you to take up a
needs. So, we leased land from
facing the Bay of Bengal. The
career in this field?
them and put up a big hotel with
hotel will be first of its kind in
252 rooms initially and then we
Chennai, facing the sea. Most of
I always ask people, why one
The reasons are very obvious.
After commissioning seven
They include oppressive taxation
I would say that I drew total
policy, lack of infrastructure and
inspiration from him. We ventured
added 171 rooms to it, to make it
the properties are on the civic
other such bottlenecks. For
into the hospitality sector without
a 423 rooms hotel. It was a great
street, on the mount road.
instance, Thomas cook was
any pre planned strategy. Let me
success and right from day one
operating here but stopped in
narrate it to you. When the airport
there was inspiration from my
other properties, we will be the
spite of the best efforts and
shifted from Santa Cruz to the
father.
leader in this new venture also, in
support from the Kerala
Sahara, we observed a lot of
One thing you liked most about
terms of average rate and as
government.
passenger traffic here, right in
your father?
well as occupancy.
How does it feel like being Vice
front of our house. It was then, a
President of FHRAI and Vice
close friend of my father, K K
his stint with the army. He was the
industry is in crisis and has plans
Chairman and Managing Director
Unni, who was the then Managing
captain in the Maratha in the light
to sell Leela Kollam and Goa?
of Leela Group, at the same time?
Director of Air India and Chairman
infantry and a strong
of the Hotel Corporation of India,
disciplinarian and he carries it
own assets in hotels. Look at all
of FHRA, in my position as
shared with us an idea about
through his life, whether it is in his
the major chains, be it Hilton or
president of Southern Indian hotel
starting a hotel. They had just set
personal or professional life. So,
any other hotel. What they do is
association. I was the President of
up a hotel and it was a very
right from the young age, we were
they manage properties - they
western India for four to five years
successful with 90 per cent
brought up strictly and that has
own and sell their assets
and during that time I was the
occupancy. It wasn’t a public
moulded our character. Even now,
and take the property they sell on
President of FHRA. As you know,
sector venture and there were top
we do not drink or smoke.
lease from the investors. And,
we also take turns every four
professionals as general
What according to you is the role
we are following the same
years and each region has a
managers.
of hospitality sector in growing
strategy.
I am currently Vice President
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SEPTEMBER 2011
One thing I liked about him is
We are confident that like our
There is a rumor that Leela
The world-wide trend is not to
PARTNER COUNTRY HOSPITALITY PARTNER
37
FACE TO FACE
City of innovative tourism products Andhra Pradesh is ambitious to make its tourism industry a known name among the international travellers. However, the state is well aware of its limitations and has planned its growth strategies taking its limitations into account. In an interview to Asian Traveller, Jayesh Ranjan IAS, Tourism Secretary, Andhra Pradesh, talked about the state’s plans to position itself as one of India’s emerging hot destinations. Edited Excerpts: Where will you position Andhra Pradesh in the tourism map of India and where do you want to place your state, as a tourism destination, in the map? There are some destinations in India which are universally accepted, as the prime or primary destinations. Destinations such as the Taj Mahal, the palaces of Rajasthan, the beaches of Goa, the backwaters of Kerala, etc., can be grouped into that category. So, any international visitor, who comes to India for the first time, definitely would not like to miss these attractions. Hence, we do not compete with such hot spots, as they are all traditionally well accepted and well established destinations. We are trying to occupy a space among those destinations, which people would like to visit, when they are exploring more of India, after experiencing the Taj Mahal, palaces of Rajasthan, etc. If one is revisiting India, to explore more of this country, there are seven states which offer decently good products. The seven states I mentioned are Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Orissa and Bengal. These are the second cluster of states, which hold promise for the visitors. We are aiming the top place in this cluster, with our cultural richness and diversity of tourism products. Moreover, keeping in mind the requirements of an international visitor, we have started what are called customised tours, to ensure that all the requirements of a visitor are taken care of by a single agency. So, it leads to a very peaceful, enjoyable, hassle free experience. In short, we are making an effort to
Do you have any innovative tourism products or projects coming up? If yes, please do share them with us. Of course, yes! Hyderabad is now accepted as an important international city, as it is largely considered as a centre of knowledge. Besides, several fortune 500 companies operate from Hyderabad, which is frequented by a large number of international visitors. Now, given the advantages which Hyderabad offers to us, we have capitalised on three new tourism products, in which we want to take the leadership. The first one is meetings, incentives, conferences and events (MICE). Hyderabad is accepted as the lure international visitors to Andhra Pradesh, in general and to Hyderabad, in undisputed conventional capital of India particular, with the variety, diversity and and hence we are trying to consolidate richness of our products and customised our position, by creating a convention tour packages. We want to turn Andhra bureau. In fact, Hyderabad is the only city in the country with a convention Pradesh into the next best set of destinations, second only to the so-called bureau and we are trying to get more and more conventional events, to the prime destinations. City of Pearls. Similarly, when it comes How do you plan to sell your state as a to medical tourism, we are trying to tourist destination? provide leadership. Hyderabad is fast We are focusing on the direct emerging as the most preferred medical interaction with the tour operators and tourism destination in India. that is the reason why we are Then, we are the only state in the participating in as many international country, which has started a film tourism and domestic events and trade fares, as commission, to ensure that all services possible. Every year, we make sure that required by film makers are made we participate in PATA, WTM, ITB and Arabian Travel Mart. We also participate available at a single window. What are the problems confronted by in all major domestic fares, without fail. the tourism industry in the state? Besides attending the fares and events, Traditionally, the tourism focus has we also participate in road shows that are organised by the ministry of tourism. been centred on northern states. As a result, when people think of India, they We have noticed that the best source of think of places like Taj Mahal, which fall getting business is through established in the list of primary destinations. The tour operators, who are familiar with India and have an exposure in India. So, southern states get only a limited exposure but Kerala. The God’s own we are capitalising on these direct B2B channels. Page 99
PARTNER COUNTRY HOSPITALITY PARTNER
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SEPTEMBER 2011
Q&A Eleven years ago, on one fine day, a causal interaction with his soon to be sister-in-law, led Solly Garth to build a career in the hospitality industry. Through Ten Questions, he unfolds several things about his career and the hospitality industry. You have been in the hospitality
experience away from home at a
What plans do you have for the
industry for the last 11 years.
hospitality school. She had just
Holiday Inn, Cochin?
Could you tell us about your early
grabbed a job with a large resort
days? What made you enter the
style hotel in Australia and was
important move for us, as a group.
hospitality sector?
speaking with a lot of passion
It is our first new brand hotel in
about her profession. I was
the South Indian market and we
career in the hospitality industry, I
entirely taken up by her
see it as an opportunity for
was in the health and fitness
enthusiastic narration and sat
showing the market the brand
industry, in New Zealand. To be
listening to her. Then, I felt an
quality of the new Holiday Inn
frank, it was my sister-in-law, who
urge to build a career in the
hotel. We are moving heaven and
inspired me to take up a career in
hospitality industry. So, I took a
earth to make it a success, by
this fast growing sector.
leap of faith, resigned from my
showcasing our uniqueness and
earlier job and took a position as
putting the fresh look and feel into
fine Christmas eve, I was dining
a baggage porter, with an
the market as much as possible.
with my (soon to be) sister-in-law
International hotel in Auckland,
As of now, our focus is on
and she narrated to me her
New Zealand. I’ve never looked
building our authentic food and
Prior to making a successful
About 11 years ago, on one
Holiday Inn, Cochin is really an
beverage experiences. We offer authentic Kerala and international cuisine and in a bid to expand our food and beverage kitty, we have recently opened Roma, Cochin’s first Italian Bistro. What’s the role of a hotel in developing a destination? A hotel can definitely play an back, since then.
important role in developing a
After working for so long in
destination, especially in a state
different parts of the world, what
like Kerala. What I imply is that
prompted you to take up an
hotels can add much value to the
assignment in India? How do you
tourism and business advantages
see India and what’s your first
that Cochin and Kerala already
impression?
offer to the market. We, Holiday
I have worked in different parts
level of professionalism and
I am now working for a truly
diversity to the accommodation
global company. I see immense
and dining that the city already
growth potential for the Indian
enjoys. This will surely provide
hospitality industry. I am in love
much value for tourists and
with India and taken up by the
business people, which they
cultural diversity of the country. It
might not have enjoyed before.
is a privilege to be part of the rich
Can you share with us some of
culture and heritage that Indians
the proudest and unforgettable
are exposed to on a daily basis,
moments in your professional
especially as I come from such a
life?
young country as New Zealand.
Garth Solly General Manager Holiday Inn Cochin, Kerala, India PARTNER COUNTRY HOSPITALITY PARTNER
40
Inn, Cochin can bring in a new
of the world and I am proud to say
I am always proud to see my
My family and I are now well
team members succeed and grow
settled in Cochin and I recall the
in their personal and professional
warm and generous reception we
lives. Being able to positively
received from everyone, we have
influence someone and allowing
met so far.
Page 44
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SEPTEMBER 2011
MARKETING
Thailand to promote beaut y and wellness tourism, at GITM 2011
T
he visitors to Goa International Travel Mart (GITM) 2011will get a taste of Tai beauty and wellness tourism, as the event organisers have signed Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), as wellness partner. As per the information available at hand, TAT is expected to launch its marketing campaign on beauty and wellness tourism, at GITM. TAT now joins the group of other partners, including Le Passage to India, Kuoni Travels, Air India, Grand Hyatt, etc. Organised and promoted jointly by Department of Tourism, Government of Goa and Goa Tourism Development Corporation (GTDC), Sethaphan Buddhani Tourism Director, TAT Association of Goa (TTAG) and Goa Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), the second edition of GITM will be held at the Grand Hyatt in Bambolim, from October 2123, 2011. “Our marketing focus for next year will be beauty and wellness tourism in Thailand and we would like to take the campaign to the Indian travel fraternity, at GITM,” says, Sethaphan Buddhani, Director, TAT.
“The MD of GTDC Nikhil Desai is my good friend and I have seen the effort, he has put in to promote his destination. He has invited travel agents and tied up with fraternities, to make the event a success. The effort to promote one’s own destination is something that he and I have in common. We partnered with GITM for two reasons – to help Desai to make the event a success and to showcase what Thailand has got to offer in beauty and wellness tourism,” elaborates, Buddhani. Thailand is expected to invite a speaker of global repute from the health industry, to speak about the region’s wellness offerings, at the event. With the theme ‘Unearth the Hidden Treasures of Goa’, the event organisers are making every effort to attract over 2500 trade visitors, to GITM 2011. “This year, we are expecting a larger participation from countries such as Singapore, South Africa, Canada, UK, Italy, Poland, Russia and Brazil. The Mart was a great success last year and is now slated to be an annual event. This year, the event will feature buyer-seller interactive sessions, panel discussions and knowledge sharing sessions, networking dinners and FAM trips,” says, Swapnil Naik, Director, Goa Tourism.
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SEPTEMBER 2011
PARTNER COUNTRY HOSPITALITY PARTNER
41
PATA
PATA Travel Mart flies to Manila, from Delhi
A
fter the successful completion of the PATA Travel Mart 2011 in New Delhi, it is now turn of the Manila to host the next PATA Travel Mart, in September 2012. The 2012 Mart is scheduled to take place September 25-28 at the SMX Convention Centre, the largest private venue in the Philippines and one of the flagship establishments of the country’s MICE industry. It is conveniently located close to prestigious hotels and key public transportation systems.
“After a very productive week in Delhi, PATA is delighted to take the PATA Travel Mart back to Manila, where it was launched as the first regional travel trade event for Asia Pacific back in 1978,” says, Hiran Cooray, Chairman, PATA. When Manila hosted the first PATA Travel Mart in 1978, just over 300 delegates attended the event. After more than three decades, PATA Travel Mart has grown
into the must attend travel event in the calendar, attracting over 1,000 delegates. “PATA Travel Mart 2012 will allow the Philippines to demonstrate, not just our capacity, but our expertise in hosting major international events. With the current growing private sector investment in tourism facilities and development throughout the Philippines, there is no better time to see the new products, convention facilities and other
tourism infrastructure in place, since the last time we hosted a big PATA event,” says, Daniel Corpuz, Under Secretary of the Philippine Department of Tourism. The Philippines has hosted several key PATA events, including the 29th PATA Annual Conference and Workshop in 1980, the PATA Annual Board of Directors Meeting in 1989, the 47th PATA Annual Conference in 1998 and the Chapter World Congress and PATA Board of Directors Meeting in 2002.
PATA to organise Bhutan’s first travel trade event
B
tional conference will help broaden the understanding of tourism and stress its positive impact on societies,” smiles Kesang Wangdi, Director General of the Tourism Council of Bhutan. At the event, international, regional and local speakers will share experiences and provide insights into existing and future travel trends in the responsible and adventure tourism sectors. It will also feature a buyer-seller mart for the high quality buyers primarily from Japan, Chinese Taipei, Western Europe, Australia, USA, Canada and the Asian cities of Singapore, Hong Kong and Shanghai. “We welcome all PATA conference delegates to visit Bhutan, where happiness is the ultimate development goal, complimented with a the Kingdom of Bhutan. “We are honoured to host strong commitment to environmental and cultural the PATA Adventure Travel preservation. We look forand Responsible Tourism ward to fruitful interactions Conference and Mart in Bhutan for the first time. I am that will create meaningful confident that such an interna- business associations, many hutan will play host to the third PATA Annual Adventure Travel and Responsible Tourism Conference and Mart. With the theme of ‘High Value Tourism – Low Impact Footprints’, the event will be held in Paro, from February 3-7, 2012. It will be the first ever B2B travel trade event to be held in
PARTNER COUNTRY HOSPITALITY PARTNER
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friendships and lots of happy memories,” says, Karma Lotey, Chairman of the Association of Bhutanese Tour Operators.
of this destination, participation is limited to a select number of delegates. It is, therefore, advisable to register as soon as possible to secure
The new event in Bhutan builds on the two successful adventure conferences and marts staged by PATA in 2010 and 2011, in Kathmandu and Pokhara, Nepal. The Bhutan event will also feature a series of pre-conference webinars, activities and interactions, with speakers and participants. “Due to the unique nature
your place at what promises to be a unique event in an exceptional destination,” informs Bill Calderwood, PATA’s interim CEO. Bhutan is a land-locked state at the eastern end of the Himalayas. The country has a population of 700,000 and is bordered by India to the west, south and east and by China to the north.
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PATA
Tell a productivity story, to bag cash prizes
PATA appoints Martin Craigs as its CEO
T
T
he PATA Singapore Chapter has called entry submissions for its Our Productivity Story competition. PATA Singapore Chapter, together with sponsor Workforce Development Agency (WDA), will reward travel and tourism organisations with the most impactful productivity story,
with cash prizes. To take part in the competition, companies across Singapore’s travel and tourism industry simply need to pitch their best productivity success story, through a 1,500word essay. Winners will be awarded cash prizes amounting to a total of six worth SGD36,000. The best two essays from each of the three travel and tourism categories hotels, travel agents and other - will then qualify for the next round. The six finalist companies will then be required to work with a dedicated video production company, to turn their productivity story into a motivating short video. All six videos will be made available online for voting, by the tourism and travel industry as well as the general public. Voting is scheduled to take place from November 14-30, 2011. Winners will be determined based on popularity (50 per cent) and judges’ evaluation (50 per cent). First prize winners are entitled to SGD8,000 and second prize winners will get SGD4,000. The winners will be awarded during the Tourism Industry Ball on December 3, 2011 at the Shangri-La, Singapore.
he Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) has
appointed Martin Craigs as its new CEO. He is expected to take charge, effective October 31, 2011. Craigs is currently elected President of Aerospace Forum Asia (AFA) and Managing Partner at Hillcrest International Advisory. ”Martin is familiar with the travel industry and with his long AFA experience he understands associations and the importance of membership. Martin also brings visionary leadership, outstanding public speaking skills, strong intercultural diplomacy and advocacy expertise to the helm at PATA. He is the right person to lead PATA, as the association commits to an exciting future of building business and advocacy on behalf of our members,” says, Bill Calderwood, PATA Interim CEO.
PATA Travel Mart 2011 held in Delhi
P
ATA Travel Mart 2011 was
interim CEO. “We thank the Ministry of
successfully held in New Delhi from September 6-9,
Tourism, Government of India for
attracting tens of thousands of
hosting a very productive Mart,
visitors and exhibitors.
this year. In New Delhi, we have seen
The event, which was inaugurated at Pragati Maidan
excellent cooperation between the
exhibition centre, was noted for
tourism industry’s public and
the presence of personalities like
private sector, in hosting the
Subodh Kant Sahay, Minister for
Mart. We can now all look forward to
Tourism; Sultan Ahmed, Minister of State for Tourism;
Manila next year, when we expect
Rajen Habib Khwaja, Chairman
the Mart to be another significant
of PATA India Chapter; Anand
milestone, as we build the
Kumar, Joint Secretary,
business for PATA members,”
Ministry of Tourism; Cooray, PATA
says, PATA Chairman Hiran
Chairman and Calderwood PATA
Cooray.
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Subodh Kant Sahay, Minister for Tourism inagurates PATA Travel Mart 2011 by lighting the lamp PARTNER COUNTRY HOSPITALITY PARTNER
43
PATA
PATA invites entries for Gold Awards 2012
P
ATA is all set to recognise
interim CEO, PATA. The PATA Gold
websites and collaterals. The
Education and Training (one Gold
travel industry
Awards are open to PATA members
highlights of the winning entries
Award and one Grand Award)
organisations and
and non-members. Winners will
will be on display at the annual
Marketing Media (nine Gold
individuals, who have made
get valuable media coverage in
meeting for delegates to enjoy.
Awards) and Travel Journalism
outstanding contributions to
various PATA communications
Award recipients will be featured
(four Gold Awards).
successfully develop and promote
channels, including PATA e-
in the winners’ showcase souvenir The PATA Gold
with Pacific Asia Travel
In total, PATA will present up to 26 PATA Gold Awards and four
CD.
travel and tourism in Asia Pacific,
elite PATA Grand Awards at a
Association (PATA) Gold Awards.
Awards 2012 are
special luncheon on April 22 at
One can now submit entries to the
open for submission
the Putrajaya Marriott Hotel,
2012 PATA Gold Awards and the
until December 15,
Malaysia.
winners will be felicitated at the
2011. Judged by
PATA annual meeting in Putrajaya,
panels of experts, the
Government Tourist Office
Malaysia, to be held from April 20-
Gold Awards
(MGTO) for the past 17 years, the
23, 2012.
recognise
PATA Gold Awards set industry
exceptional
standards for excellence and
achievement in six
innovation.
“The PATA Gold Awards put the spotlight on tourism innovation
Sponsored by the Macau
“We strongly encourage our
and excellence. No matter if you
newsletters, press releases, PATA
categories - Marketing campaign
are an individual or a travel-
Compass magazine and social
(six Gold Awards and one Grand
industry stakeholders to take this
related company or organisation,
media.
Award) Environment (three Gold
opportunity to ‘go for gold’ with
Awards and one Grand Award)
the PATA Gold Awards 2012,” says,
your achievement will be
Winners will be entitled to
recognised by worldwide media
leverage the prestigious PATA
Heritage and Culture (two Gold
Joao Manuel Costa Antunes,
exposure,” says, Bill Calderwood,
Gold Awards 2012 logo on their
Awards and one Grand Award)
Director, MGTO.
Page 40
What are your views on the future
beautiful wife Natalie and our two
of the hospitality industry, in
vivacious girls - Amelia (four
general?
years) and Imogen (two years).
them an opportunity to grow is a great honour that I relish.
I think hotels will continue to
We are well settled here and
cycle through the phases of
Cochin is the third home for
unforgettable moments, I can’t
technology driven services and
Amelia, who has started her
pick certain incidents. However, I
amenities and then, back to the
schooling in Cochin. In her short
spending time swimming with my
admit that I cherish the moments,
personal, one-on-one style of
span of life, she has now lived in
daughters.
I spent with some of the privileged
service that we are traditionally
three countries and is growing
Which is your favourite
guests. So far in my career, I have
known for. With the web-based
fond of travelling. Imogen is
destination? Why?
met several royal people,
services making inroads into
learning almost as much
presidents, prime ministers, sport
hotels, at present, we are on the
Malayalam, as English and is
wife and I used to spend time in
stars and prominent media
cusp of another technology push.
happier eating desi food items,
the Cook Islands, at a place called
personalities. And I was always
However, there will again be a
than western food! Natalie and I
Aitutaki, some years ago (before
surprised at their down-to-earth
time, when customers seek for
are enjoying raising our girls in
the parenthood) and it remains in
behaviour, compared to the one
friendly faces. With global
Cochin and are grateful for the
my memory as a beautiful beach/
cut in the media.
travelling options becoming easily
support we have received from all
island destination. A combination
Where would you like to see
affordable, there will be a surge in
our friends, in Cochin.
of the warmth people and the
yourself, say, 10 years from now?
mid scale and limited service
Please tell us about your hobbies
untouched nature of the island
hotels. This is where Holiday Inn
and other interests?
make it a holiday spot to
When it comes to
In hotels, no doubt! I have
I enjoy reading for business
Tough question, indeed! My
remember. Queenstown in New
realised my passion and given
and Holiday Inn Express will really
how diverse and varied the life of
shine.
and relaxation. I am fond of
Zealand is also one of my
an hotelier is, I can see myself
Would you paint a picture of your
reading crime novels and books
favourite places and my family
trudging this path, as long as I am
family?
on leadership and change. I also
members enjoy spending quality
enjoy working out at gym and
time at Kumarakom, in Kerala.
fit enough for the task.
I am in Cochin with my
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TRENDS
Kingdom of Dreams
E
ntertainment and leisure parks are not uncommon in India. However, there aren’t many that bring to life the magic and timeless mystique of India in a unique blend of Indian art, culture, heritage, crafts, cuisine and performing arts, with the technological wizardry of today. And it is where Kingdom of Dreams scores over other entertainment and leisure parks. Ideally located in Gurgaon, at the apex of the Golden Triangle of Jaipur, Agra and Delhi, Kingdom of Dreams is India’s leading live entertainment and leisure destination. Sprawling across acres of land, it was set up with a vision to create theme-based entertainment experiences of exceptional standards and promote Indian culture and performing arts across the globe. The two welcoming elephants at the entrance is only an indication of Kingdom of Dream’s stress on offering the very Indian experience to the visitors. “Kingdom of Dreams is reflective of India, its rich culture and seamless heritage. Kingdom of Dreams is a world class experience and I am ecstatic to be a part of an Indian brand that has set the stage for entertainment at its very best,” says an upbeat bollywood actor Shahrukh Khan, Global Ambassador of Kingdom of Dreams. Promoted by Wizcraft International Entertainment, India’s leading Entertainment and Communication Company, and Apra Group of Companies, this distinctive and live entertainment destination, incredible in scale and scope and conceptualised to offer a magical Indian experience like none other, houses three product offerings - Culture Gully, Nautanki Mahal and Showshaa Theatre. Another attraction is IIFA Buzz cafe. Culture Gully, one of the main attractions of Kingdom of Dreams, brings together the grandeur of India’s ancient and diverse architecture, integrated perfectly with traditional Indian performing arts, entertainment and India’s rich cultural heritage. Interesting architectural and cultural facets of Sikkim, West Bengal, Assam, Kerala, Delhi, Punjab, Madhya Pradesh, Chennai, Goa, Mumbai, Lucknow, Kashmir and Rajasthan are displayed in this magnificent boulevard. Spread over 100,000 square feet, Culture
46
Gully offers an exciting experience of a busy Indian street, featuring India as a delightful destination, to savour the best of local cuisines, renowned handicrafts and enjoy live performances by traditional artists. This magical avenue also presents a magnificent Indian carnival, showcasing 14 states of India in all their splendour, on a single street enveloped under a breathtaking sky-dome. Six restaurants, six show kitchens, three street bars and seven retail stores, representing all the states in the country, engage and entertain the visitors at Culture Gully. Visitors have plenty of options from enjoying a leisurely cup of South Indian filter coffee at the Madras Café, to a massage near the beaches of Goa, trendy shopping on Mumbai’s fashion street and enlightening spiritualism at the Mystic Centre. It also features Assam tea house, where one can explore India’s famed variety of teas, while enjoying performances and wares of local artisans, street performers and folk dancers, from across the country. Besides, at Culture Gully one can visit a quaint tavern in Goa, imbibe the spirit of Kerala’s backwaters or walk past Mumbai’s Rajabai Clock Tower. Nautanki Mahal, a dynamic state-of-the-art theatre at Kingdom of Dreams, stages Zangoora, the Gypsy Prince - world’s biggest and longest Indian theatrical musical extravaganza. Designed, scripted, composed and produced by the best of Indian and International talents, this musical show is an unforgettable experience. Zangoora, a bollywood stage show, is a perfect combination of Indian cinematic entertainment and its rich cultural heritage. The show, which features talented Hussain Kuwajarewala, Gauahar Khan and Kashmira Irani, can now be enjoyed in English, French Japanese, Korean, Spanish, Chinese, German and Russian. The larger than life performances of various artists in Zangoora have captivated hearts of many Indian and international audience. The entire presentation of Zangoora, The gypsy prince, promises to give the audience an experience of watching a movie live in 4D format. “It is a very proud moment for us at Kingdom of Dreams. The amazing responses of the audiences from India as well as from other parts of the world have encouraged us
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TRENDS
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47
TRENDS to keep the show running and make it available in various other languages to cater to a larger audience,” smiles Viraf Sarkari, Director, Wizcraft International Entertainment. Another attraction at Nautanki Mahal is Acromania - the great Mongolian circus. It offers an opportunity for the visitors to enjoy traditional circus of Mongolia accompanied by dancing, acting, contortion, acrobatics etc. During this 90 minutes spectacle, talented circus artists will perform various circus genres, choreographed with illustrations of the customs of Mongolia. “Kingdom of Dreams is proud to
them with twists and turns in the storyline. Kingdom of Dreams will also see the launch of Here I am –Shiamak, a Vegas styled dance and music show, this year. This extravaganza by the phenomenal dance maestro Shiamak Davar will bring various genres of dance alive on stage. “I am really excited to perform live at Nautanki Mahal in Kingdom of Dreams. ‘Here I am’ is a unique present Acromania – the great theatrical spectacular with an Mongolian circus in all its glory, for the international format,” says an excited first time in India. The circus is one of the Shiamak Davar. most endurable and best loved forms of IIFA Buzz Café, which presents an entertainment in the world. This 70-year elaborate and complete bollywood old circus, with its rich tradition of skilful performances, wealth of talent and bouquet of acts, will be an overwhelming experience for the Indian audience,” says Sarkari. Seeing the response Zangoora and Acromania evoked from the visitors, two more shows, Jhumroo and Here I amShiamak, will be launched at Nautanki Mahal, this year. Jhumroo, an out and out musical comedy, will be launched in October 2011. Packed with 19 bollywood retro songs, Jhumroo will be a celebration of the spirit of Kishore Kumar. Jhumroo not only promises its audience a good laugh and a happy experience but also assures to surprise PARTNER COUNTRY HOSPITALITY PARTNER
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experience, is another attraction at Kingdom of Dreams. An alluring and eclectic amalgamation of brand IIFA with the Indian Cinematic themed elements, this is the third IIFA Buzz Café to open in the country, after establishing one at the Mumbai airport and the second one at the Hyderabad airport. It features larger than life moments of reel life in the form of posters, records, props and star memorabilia. Thematic décor, props, music and special effects make IIF Buzz Café an exciting place. Kingdom of Dream will soon house Showshaa Theatre, a 350-seater amphitheatre. The theatre is expected to stage ancient Indian epics and mythology, mock wedding shows and the great Indian talent circus. “Kingdom of Dreams has been conceptualised to offer a live entertainment experience, at par with the best around the world. We hope to capture the imagination of the world, with this spectacular destination and our new musical extravaganzas, concludes Sarkari.
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FACE TO FACE
After establishing Kerala as an international tourism destination, moves are now on to build the state as a global shopping hot spot. The Grand Kerala Shopping Festival (GKSF) can well be considered as a means to this end. Launched almost five years back, the shopping festival has now grown into a major event, attracting hundreds of thousands of customers from across the globe. In order to draw more customers, the festival is being held during the peak tourism season of the state. Asian Traveller met Rathan Kelkkar IAS, Special Officer, Kerala Tourism and Trade Promotion Organisation and Director, Grand Kerala Shopping Festival, to know what is in store for GKSF 2012. Edited Excerpts:
Making of a shopping hot spot Could you please tell us your plans for Grand Kerala Shopping Festival, 2012? Grand Kerala Shopping Festival (GKSF) is a 46-day long event, which starts from December 1 and ends on January 15. The festival is being conducted to make the Gods’ own country, which is already an international tourism spot, an international shopping destination. Preparations for the GKSF season five is already underway. The chairman of our executive committee is Kerala Tourism Minister A P Anil Kumar, while the apex committee is headed by Oommen Chandy, Chief Minister of Kerala. This time, the focus is on the customers from other states and we have taken a lot of policy decisions, to woo more customers. The entire festival will be an ideal venue to showcase the state’s tourism industry and local industrial sector, to the outside world. This is an event, where the Tourism Department, Industries and Commerce Department and GKSF will work together, to promote the
state’s tourism industry as well as industrial sector. GKSF is a project under the tourism department. In order to focus on the customers from other states, we have launched several schemes. In one such move, GKSF will offer 100 per cent value added tax (VAT) refund scheme to the customers, who come and shop in Kerala using credit cards, to a limit of Rs 100,00. When it comes to marketing activities, our focus will be on other states. We have already conducted sponsorship meets and press meets, in Mumbai and New Delhi. Efforts are being made to create more awareness on the festival, get more sponsors and to attract more people to the state, during this peak tourism season. We are also planning to have a ‘co-op’ scheme for our sponsors and participants, wherein the partner with GKSF can do more marketing in other states. As part of this,
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we give 50 per cent refund on advertisements, up to a limit of 5 lakh, if one follows our guidelines. Since we have a big market to target, we are using IT as a tool, to reach out to the prospective customers. We have also plans to come out with more innovative schemes, using mobile as a technology. We have opened a website recently and are trying to promote online shopping. While our main focus is on southern states, we are also targeting Mumbai, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat and Delhi, to make the shopping festival a huge success. With all these plans, we are working to turn Kerala into a shoppers’ paradise. GKSF usually gives away a lot of gold prizes through lucky draws and scratch and win coupons. Would this be added attraction of GKSF 2012? One of the major attractions of the shopping festival is the gold prizes on offer.
With more sponsors, we think that we can give away more gold gifts, in the upcoming edition of the festival. We are planning to give away 101 kg gold through scratch and win coupons, daily draws, weekly draws and mega events, in 2012. We have also asked the merchants to come up with attractive gifts. Besides, we are trying to offer new packages in ayurveda and pilgrimage, with some niche schemes, to give more options to the visitors from the other states. It will give them an opportunity to understand and experience Kerala better. How many visitors/participants are you expecting for GKSF 2012? Last time, around 6000 merchants participated in the GKSF. The registration has already started in June for the next year’s festival and we are expecting at least 15-20 per cent increase in the number of registration. Since the shopping festival is being held during the peak tourism season of the state, we also expect a 20 per cent rise in the customers.
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NEW YORK
New York City beckons film buffs Visit the city that never sleeps, to experience music, film, art, wine, food and the emotional chord it strikes!
A
re you a film/theatre freak? If yes, pack your bags to New York! It’s raining film festivals in the big city and till November, it has a lot to offer to the film enthusiasts from across the globe. You can plan your trip anytime between September and November this year, not only to get the taste of exciting films in varied genres, but also to experience what the most populous city in the United States has to offer. Scheduled for September 15-17, 2011, the New York Surf Film Festival can be considered as the curtain riser, as it’s the first film festival to hit the city that never sleeps. Considered as the premier showcase for international independent surf film, this film festival is being held with an objective of helping the filmmakers, who are exploring the diversity of surfing an opportunity, to present their works to a larger
52
audience. As surf culture becomes more popular, the notion of what it means to be a surfer expands. The New York Surf Film Festival also aims to build upon and shape the idea of what a surf movie is, while fostering the growth of this global community in New York City.
After the surf festival, you need not wait for a longer period, to engage yourself in the next festival. However, if you are not addicted to television programmes, you can give it a miss and spend time to know The Big Apple, in depth. Going by the schedule, the second event to hit the centre of the universe is New York Television Festival (September 19-24, 2011). Founded in 2005 as the
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SEPTEMBER 2011
NEW YORK
industry’s first recognised independent television festival, it provides a platform to elevate the works of small screen artists. Held annually in New York City, the birthplace of modern television, the festival unites artists, executives, industry figures and fans together in one forum, to celebrate the medium and to help shape its future. The festival usually features panel discussions, premiere screenings and other special events, designed to honour television as an institution and as an art form. For the art lovers, who like to do their bit to propel art organisations, Coney Island Film Festival (September 2325, 2011) is a must attend. The mission of the Coney Island Film Festival is to raise funds for the non-profit arts organisation Coney Island USA. The festival screens a truly eclectic range of films from the US and all over the world. Much to the delight of the audience, the festival features a number of ‘made in Coney Island’ productions each year. Soon after the Coney Island Film Festival, one can experience the vibrancy of
recognised as contemporary classics. To be held from September 30 to October 16, 2011, the festival is highly competitive with an average of 28 feature films and 12 short films, each year. Views from the Avant-Garde, which premieres non-narrative, experimental film and video, will be an added attraction, at this festival. If you are in the capital of the world by the middle of October, don’t miss the opportunity to be part of the QBC International Film and Music Festival that features films/ the world’s first global film videos produced, written festival, taking place in over 200 cities across six continents, and/or directed by filmmakers of African descent during one week. The biggest film festival in in the US and across the globe. the big city, however, happens To be held between October 14 and 16, 2011, the films at by the end of September. this festival will be LGBTQ Titled as the New York Film Festival, this 17-day festival is themed and will have black LGBTQ characters in leading an unparalleled showcase of roles. After a few days gap inspiring and provocative falls the Gotha’s largest music cinema, by emerging talents festival CMJ Music Marathon and first-rank international and Film Festival (October 18artists, whose films are often contemporary musical theatre at the New York Musical Theatre Festival, which is scheduled from September 26 to October 16, 2011. If you are interested in short films, ensure that you devote some of your time to be at Manhattan Short Film Festival. Scheduled from September 25 to October 2, 2011, this short film festival is
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22, 2011) and it’s the best time to spend your quality time in the city’s greatest nightclubs and theatres. The film festivals in the Big Apple come to an end in November, with seventh annual Big Apple Film Festival (November 1-6, 2011) and African Diaspora Film Festival (November 25December 13, 2011) that stretches almost to the first half of December. Named one of MovieMaker Magazine’s top 25 film festivals worth the entry fee and one of the coolest film festivals, Big Apple Film Festival is dedicated to showcasing and promoting the highest quality films from the New York City independent film community as well as selected films from across the country and around the world. The festival takes place at the world famous Tribeca Cinemas. As far as African Diaspora Film Festival is considered, it’s the place to enjoy important cinematic works of creativity, intellectual expansion, identity and equality, forgetting races, nationalities and backgrounds. PARTNER COUNTRY
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MALAYSIA
It’s time for a Malaysia ride
I
t’s worth planning an exhilarating trip, with one’s entire family, to Malaysia and enjoy its many exciting theme parks and rides. Whether it is the water-themed parks in Malaysia’s hot tropical climate, or the highland theme parks with rides in cool, crisp mountain air, one is guaranteed the ride of a lifetime. Here, we present 10 best theme parks in Malaysia, which are a must to visit, if one is planning to explore this land of mountains. Sunway Lagoon Resort Petaling Jaya, Selangor Hop on to exciting rides, experience spectacular water thrills and revel in the adventures of the wild west, at this sprawling theme park. One should not miss to experience the waters of Africa, wild, wild west and a world of adventure rides. Cosmo’s World Indoor Theme Park Berjaya Times Square, Kuala Lumpur One should make sure to stop at this theme park, considered to be the country’s biggest indoor theme park. Spread over several levels of a popular mall, its main attractions are the supersonic odyssey, DNA mixer, fantasy garden, botanic drive ride and the kidz
castle. The Mines Wonderland Resort City Seri Kembangan, Selangor Visit this beautiful and surreal resort city, which comes alive in the evenings, when thousands of coloured lights are switched on. With a huge unity fountain near the park entrance, one can also take the boats passing through the canal, which neatly run right across the mines shopping centre.
Europe at a low cost. This resort houses a French-style and a Japanese village with
Genting Highlands Kuala Lumpur This city of entertainment is a crowdpuller and is sure to enchant one with its six theme areas – Champs Elysees (France), London (England), Venice (Italy), Times Square and Universal Walk (USA), Swiss Alps (Switzerland) and Genting Walk (Malaysia).
a restaurant and a botanical garden, a golf course and horse trails for those who fancy riding or want to give it a shot. Bukit Merah Laketown Resort Perak A delightful time is in store for the entire family at this resort, which houses an Orang Utan park, a water park and an eco park. Its main attractions include the boomerang, giant wet bubble, monsoon lagoon wave pool, water speed slides, body slides, giant tube rides, activity pool, lazy river, perak mining company
Bukit Tinggi Resort Kuala Lumpur It’s the best option to experience
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MALAYSIA and kids adventure river. Desa Water Park Kuala Lumpur-Seremban Highway Get caught up in the whirlwind of activities that this water park boasts of, which include a water park, paint ball, mini golf, mini motorbike and go-kart circuits. It also has one of the longest uphill water coasters in the country, the splash-out activity pool and the ultimate water factory.
Ibans, Bidayuhs and Melanaus, along with the traditional arts of the Sarawakians. Visit the authentic dwellings and view their crafts, household items and musical instruments. The village is also the venue of the annual rainforest world music festival, which brings onstage world renowned musicians and performers, from mythical Borneo.
worth taking a dip here at hot springs, which are known to contain minerals with therapeutic qualities. Sarawak Cultural Village Damai This legendary village, also called the ‘Living Museum’, displays the multifaceted cultures of ethnic groups like the
A’Famosa Resort Malacca If one is looking for a riskfree adventure, then the animal safari is the best bet. Enjoy the sight of around 100 species of wild animals, including tigers, lions and sun bears. One can also stop over at the dairy farm, Monkey Island and Water World.
Wet World Pedas Hot Springs Negri Sembilan If one likes to enjoy open-air common pools, twin slides and camping facilities, this is the best spot to spend one’s quality time. Besides, it’s
An imaginative venue for a truly interactive dining experience
M
andarin Oriental, Kuala
cooking stations are the hallmarks
imaginative
dining rooms, making this an ideal
Lumpur has added
of this new restaurant at Mandarin
way, we anticipate Mosaic will
venue for family get-togethers,
Mosaic, a new all day
Oriental, Kuala Lumpur.
become a dining destination of
business or entertainment lunches
choice in Kuala Lumpur,” he
and celebrations.
dining venue, to its list of award
“The design concept of Mosaic
winning restaurants. Designed by
beautifully illustrates Mandarin
the creative Japanese design
Oriental’s desire to ensure a
company, Spin Design Studio,
sense of place.
smiles.
At Mosaic, food is presented in
Positioned as the leading all
cast iron pans, woks, copper pots,
day dining restaurant in the city,
or served in individual portions.
Mosaic features a vibrant mix of
Fans of Indian cuisine can enjoy
imaginative venue for a truly
history, culture and sensibility
local and international cuisine.
tandoori chicken, lamb, prawn
interactive dining experience, with
have been assimilated into the
Besides a large dessert bar,
with naan and other North Indian
Mosaic is a distinctive, lively and
This is a venue, where local
one’s friends or
specialties. Sushi, sashimi and
family.
authentic Japanese dishes are
Overlooking
also available here. Other options
the lush
include Chinese dim sum baskets
greenery of the
and fragrant stir-fries, and
KLCC Park,
barbecue seafood at the Malay
Mosaic boasts
open kitchen.
an elegant
The dessert bar offers an array
interior,
of sweet delights, to tempt the
reflecting the
palate.
Peranakan
Headed by Chef Raymond
culture.
Abour Jeily, Chef de Cuisine and
Elaborate
Jenna Park, Restaurant Manager,
finishings, customised flooring,
design,” says, Pierre Barthes,
Mosaic houses interactive live
Mosaic is open 24 hours and
intricate hanging pewter lights,
General Manager of Mandarin
cooking stations, including grill,
serves buffet breakfast, lunch and
bespoke mosaic walls and
Oriental, Kuala Lumpur. “With a
wok, noodle and tandoor. In
dinner. The restaurant seats up to
columns, and cleverly located live
wide range of cuisine served in an
addition, it has two semi private
148 diners.
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ASIAN TRAVELLER
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FACE TO FACE
The Great Malaysian Makeover With its growing appetite to pull travellers to revisit destinations, Malaysian Tourism has embarked on a slew of measures, to develop its virgin areas and offer new experiences to its visitors. In an interview to Asian Traveller, Dato’ Azizan Noordin, Acting Director-General, Tourism Malaysia, shared the initiatives taken by its authorities to offer something new to its travellers (every time they visit the country), its main attractions, USP of Malaysian tourism and several other things related to its booming tourism industry. Edited Excerpts:
sightseeing, cuisine or choice of transport.
facebook, twitter, malaysiajaoblog, travbuddy
Indians will surely find Malaysia a true
and other discussion forums.
shopper’s paradise. For the people of India, Could you please give us the picture of the
Malaysia is more like a second home. Malaysia is also the best suitable
Malaysian tourism scenario?
Another major effort is the organising of Mega Fam programme for foreign media and travel partners, which was initiated in 2000.
destination for the younger generation. It will
The main objective of the programme is to
40 years old, now. The tourism industry in
be a relief from their hectic schedule. The
increase the awareness of participants about
Malaysia has grown slowly, but steadily, over
major attractions include islands and cities,
tourist destinations around Malaysia and to
the years. Last year, 24.6 million people
events, sports, spa, wellness programmes and
provide an opportunity for them to sample
visited Malaysia, contributing RM56.5 billion
theme parks. These may be the places that the
Malaysia’s diverse attractions and warm
(US $18.8 billion), to the industry. Malaysia
Indian travellers should be looking at.
hospitality.
has the potential to grow, to a much higher
Malaysia is also a good destination for
level. We are getting good response from all
pursuing further studies. There is a lot for you
presentations to corporates, media
markets, especially from India. Last year, we
to choose from.
familiarisation tours and MICE road shows and
Established in 1972, Tourism Malaysia is
saw 690,000 tourists from India, up from
Those who like to ride/drive, Malaysian
Our mainline marketing activities include
participation in trade exhibitions, etc. What is the USP of Malaysian tourism?
137,000 in 2009. I must say that the Indian
road networks are the best for you. If you are
media and the local agents are very co-
coming via Singapore by road, you can have
operative and they have played a role in
your breakfast from Malaysia, lunch from
leading dive destinations of the world, with
drawing Indian travellers to the country.
Kuala Lumpur, dinner from Penang and head
one of the richest marine environments in the
Malaysia is fast becoming one of the
directly to Bangkok.
Indo-Pacific basin. The incredible bio-diversity
already visited the country, is to revisit
Do you mind disclosing your marketing
of marine life, coupled with beautiful islands,
Malaysia. Most of the Indian tourists frequent
strategy for India?
white sandy beaches and clear warm waters,
My appeal to the travellers, who have
places like Kuala Lumpur, Genting, Langkawi
Our marketing strategy is almost the same
keep divers coming back time and time again
and Penang. We are working towards opening
as the one, we have been following for years.
to the country. Malaysian food is another
up new destinations and offering new
We take part in almost all the events like PATA
attraction. Indulge in gourmet fusion cuisine
experiences to the visitors, in an effort to
Travel Mart and exhibitions like SATTE. Also,
created by talented chefs in designer
make travellers revisit our country. Our new
we have local offices in Chennai, Mumbai and
restaurants, or sample an endless amount of
destinations approach will showcase
New Delhi. They organise consumer shows
goodies found practically bursting out of
uncovered places like Kota Kinabalu and
and participate in local events and consumer
malls, store fronts and side-street hawker
Kuching in Malaysian Borneo, rainforest of
shows, to take the Malaysian opportunities to
stalls. Bring your kids to the theme parks and
Taman Negara National Park, Redang and
the local people. Apart from these, we have
spend your time in the wellness resorts, spas,
Tioman Island.
our presence in global television, newspapers,
etc. The place has something for everyone.
magazines, etc.
What is your message for the Indian
The Malaysian food culture and other aspects are not much different from that of
We are also going online, to make you
travellers? Make Malaysia your second home.
India. Malaysia is perceived to be a real family
understand what Malaysia has in store for you.
destination and hence it gets more visitors
The potential of facebook and other social
Malaysia has got lot of things to offer you. It is
from India. Moreover, Indians look for the best
media has to be tapped well. We are now
equally interesting to the young and the old
that their money can buy and Malaysia offers
available to help travellers to make decisions
and to the middle income groups and to the
great value for money, be it accommodation,
not only via our website, but also through
high income section.
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COLUMN
V DURAIKKANNAN
the mind and the expanded mind lets the body relax and shed its stress and tensions. This is called ‘ecopsychology’ and it goes under various names like Gaia psychology, psychoecology, ecotherapy, environmental psychology, green psychology, global therapy, green therapy, reearthing, nature-based psychotherapy, shamanic counselling and sylvan therapy. While the human mind is shaped up by the modern social world, it is adapted to the natural world in which it evolved. That is why the atavistic hankering back to nature and its serenity. We are all primordially hunters and gatherers and the sociological studies prove this fact. Both hunting and gathering are hardwired into our body and mind that we need to peregrinate. That is why Bertrand Russell said: “Civilised life has altogether grown too tame and if it is to be stable, must provide a harmless outlet for the impulses, which our remote ancestors satisfied in hunting!” When we launch ourselves into a new, exciting activity, especially in an exotic and offbeat location, we feel so elated because our brain releases dopamine, the pleasure chemical at that time. Heights, depths and distances always provide those spatial pleasures. You cannot find a ‘mynah’ or any other bird Human beings have an singing, sitting on the ground. innate, latent instinct to emotionally connect to nature, They sing only when they are perched atop the treetops. called the ‘biophilic’ instinct. Why do we feel so good about That is the magic of the height! The same principle ourselves, when we are spending time at the seafront, works, when we find ourselves at a hill station like out at a natural locale, or at Ooty or Kodaikanal. When the lofty heights of a hill you dive into the deep sea, station? The travel expands Last week when we had an additional holiday, which coincided with the weekend, 20 of us, old colleagues of Jet Airways (while a few of them are still with the same airline, others have moved on to various airlines and other verticals) got speaking to each other via e-mail, over phone, facebook etc., and we got connected and got ready for a re-union, after some 10 long years. People were coming in from Madurai, Mangalore, Coimbatore, Cochin and Chennai and we all decided to meet at Cherai Beach, which is just off Cochin. We rented out a family resort wholesale for ourselves, as most of us were with the spouses and kids. We had with us our own cooks and kitchen things. The two days’ time out on the beach was very rich and rewarding, in terms of our reunion, reconnect and the rejuvenation typical of a sea resort, with its surfing and long beach strolls.
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especially when you do snorkelling or scuba diving, or flippering, you are likely to feel an amazing sense of elation and exhilaration, more so sighting those awesome underwater sea life (how many of us know that there is ‘underwater kiting’ too?!). That is the beauty of the depth! Likewise, long strolls also enliven the mind and body, because the distances add their own charm. That is why a sheer long-distance driving, per se, also does a world of good. My wife and I had done the 1,235 Kms stretch of the NH 4 (National Highway) to and fro Chennai-Mumbai, by car a few times and it was a marvellous experience. You need to drive the car yourself, to get the essence of that joy. The drive, which is mostly through four-lane and usually takes two days, is a traveller’s joy. The intervening and ever changing states, with different languages, cultures and cuisines, deliver a whole new package of experience. NH 4 covers four states, starting from Tamil Nadu and then to Andhra, Karnataka and Maharashtra. When you are driving yourself, it is as if the whole world is unfurling and rolling out for you, to indulge in and uncover all its beauty! The best part of such travel is the opportunity it throws
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COLUMN up for history, to meet with geography! The Kannada poet Sarvagna is a favourite poet of mine. Sarvagna was his penname, while his real name was Pushpadatta. ‘Sarvagna’ means one who knows everything and his thousand and odd poems on religion, morals, customs, astrology, science and even riddles will testify to his popularity. The early 16th century poet was known for his three-liner poetry called ‘tripadis’, encapsulating all the wisdom of the world in them. He is comparable to the Tamil poet Thiruvalluvar, who is known for his 1330 couplets. I had heard that Sarvagna hailed from one small hamlet called Abaluru, in Haveri district of Karnataka. When we were driving past Haveri on the NH 4, it just rang a bell and
ASIAN TRAVELLER
we noticed a small guidepost, pointing the byroad to the ‘Land of Sarvagna’, just five Kms away. We stopped by and visited the place, before proceeding further. Kittur Rani Chennamma (1778-1829) is another legendary character, in the history of India. She was the queen of the princely state of Kittur, in Karnataka. In 1824, 33 years before the 1857 war of independence, she led an armed rebellion against the British, in response to the Doctrine of Lapse, the annexation policy as promulgated by Lord Dalhousie. She was the first Indian woman, to defy the British governance in India, at the expense of her own life. Kittur also comes up on the NH 4 and the lofty statue of Rani Chennamma, with the risen sword in her hand on the horse is a sight to see, as it
SEPTEMBER 2011
emerges on your view when you drive up the place in Belgaum district of Karnataka (now, the newly built flyovers have partly masked the beauty of the statue and the palace). Backpacking has so many pleasures and one of them is sleeping in a different place every night. Novelty has its
own value. Neurobiologists have proved through MRI scans that ‘novelty centre’ called SN/VTA (Substantia Nigra/Ventral Tegmental Area) in our brain gets activated, on seeing something novel, different from the usual stimuli. The pleasure chemical dopamine is stored in the SN/VTA area, which is in the midbrain of ours and on seeing a new place, inhaling a new breeze and learning a new thing, it releases itself. So, what are you waiting for? Hijack yourself, see places and enjoy the dopamine releases in your system! And remember what St Augustine said: “The world is a book and those who do not travel, read only one page!”
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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, 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
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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.
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AVIATION
Airlines bet big on low emission practices, to save costs
T
instructed to taxi the aircraft to the bay, on landing on one engine. Usually, it takes five to 10 minutes to reach the boarding gate and keeping one engine switched off helps reduce fuel burn. The pilots have also been asked to use the thrust reverser on idle mode, to decelerate the emission operations, recycling aircraft speed after landing,” a on-board waste and reducing source from a leading airline said, requesting anonymity. cabin weight, to cut down IndiGo has 41 Airbus costs. IndiGo has, for instance, A320s and operates 259 daily advised its pilots to save 100 flights. By saving 100 Kg of Kg of aviation turbine fuel ATF, it can save (ATF) on each trip, by following fuel-efficient flying approximately 120 litres of fuel on each trip. A Boeing 737 procedures. or an Airbus A320 burns five Jet Airways is also learnt to to six tonnes of fuel, on a have taken steps to reduce Mumbai-Delhi trip. Even if emissions and save on fuel only 10 of its flights achieve costs, by reducing cabin 100 per cent saving target, the weight. airline saves more than a “There is a set of tonne of fuel daily. Earlier this procedures that can help reduce fuel burn. For instance, year, IndiGo had signed an agreement to buy Airbus IndiGo pilots have been he ever increasing fuel cost has forced the airlines to take a slew of stringent measures to control expenses, to stay alive in the business. It is learnt that several airlines are following procedures such as low-
A320neo that are 15 per cent more fuel efficient. These planes will be inducted only after 2015. Jet Airways is also taking steps to keep fuel burn under control, as its fuel costs account for up to 40 per cent of its expenses. The proposed European Union emission trading norms also require airlines flying to Europe, to control emissions. This has
resulted in Jet taking several steps, to comply with the new norms. Since a lighter aircraft consumes less fuel, the airline is planning to reduce cabin weight. This is being done by reviewing and reducing the number of pages in in-flight magazines and limiting the number of copies carried. Also, it is using containers, galley equipment and tableware lighter in weight.
IndiGo to fly between Muscat and Mumbai, from Oct 2011
T
he low cost airline IndiGo has announced its plans to commence its operations from Muscat, from October 10, 2011. As per the present plans, the airline is expected to operate four flights a week, between Muscat and Mumbai. In addition, from October 10, this year, IndiGo will also start operations on the
Mumbai-Singapore route, with daily flights. “Muscat is a key market for us and the Indian population based in Oman can experience our product’s offerings. We are diligently working with the authorities to get additional rights, to cater to the growing India-Oman traffic,” informs Aditya Ghosh, President, IndiGo.
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IndiGo was to originally operate daily flights to Muscat, but the government had withdrawn some of the rights granted and handed them to the state-owned Air India. The rights to fly daily to Muscat, from Delhi and Mumbai had been granted to IndiGo in January, by the then Civil Aviation Minister Praful
Patel, who was moved on to the heavy industries portfolio, in the latest cabinet reshuffle. With another 12 A320s to be added to its fleet this fiscal, IndiGo plans to launch more overseas flights to West and South-East Asia. However, a freeze by the civil aviation ministry on approvals for fresh foreign rights may stall such plans.
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AVIATION
Qatar Air ways to open fifth route in China
T
o cement its presence in China by opening its fifth route, Qatar Airways has selected the western city of Chongqing, to roll out its new operations. As per the proposed plan, the carrier is set to commence non-stop services from its hub in Doha to Chongqing, from November 28, 2011. Operating three times a week, Qatar Airways is eyeing to take its capacity to China up to 28 flights a week. The airline already operates daily non-stop flights from Doha to Hong Kong, Shanghai and Guangzhou and four flights a week, to Beijing. The proposed Chongqing services will be operated with an Airbus A330 in a two-class business and economy
configuration. “China, as a pacesetter in manufacturing, is clearly one of the most important countries in the world and it has the power to transform the global economic landscape. It is this dynamism of a country that we at Qatar Airways have been monitoring closely and we are Akbar Al Baker, delighted to CEO be part of China’s burgeoning economic growth. With four routes already well established in China, we look forward to adding Chongqing as our fifth gateway by the end of the
year,” says, Qatar Airways’ Chief Executive Officer Akbar Al Baker. With a population of just over 30 million people, Chongqing is one of the largest industrial catchment areas. Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport is one of the biggest airports in western China, serving a large domestic market, with limited international flights. Global access is typically via Hong Kong, Beijing or Shanghai. Chongqing is a major manufacturing centre and a
key transportation hub located in the upper reaches of the Yangtze River, an important shipping waterway in China. With Beijing, Shanghai and Tianjin, it is also one of only four municipalities in China, which report directly to the national government. “Qatar Airways is demonstrating confidence of doing business with partners in China and the opening of Chongqing as our newest route shows our commitment to a vibrant economy,” concludes Baker.
Emirates adds flights to Japan
E
mirates is all set to operate two extra flights a week between Dubai and Narita International Airport in Japan, starting November 1, 2011. The company is expected to introduce a
Boeing 777-300ER aircraft, for the proposed daily service. As per the available information, the aircraft will take off from Dubai at 2.50 am and arrive at Narita International Airport at 5:33 pm, the same day. The return flight will depart Narita at 10 pm and will arrive in Dubai at 3.50 am, the following day. “Japan is a vital market for Emirates and the fact that we are able to increase the flights on a daily operation is a great testament to the partnership which has existed since we began operations to Japan, through Osaka, nine years ago,” says, Richard Jewsbury, Emirates’ Senior Vice President for Commercial Operations, Far East and Australia. “We have been committed to helping Japan through this period of recovery and we appreciate that the Japanese authorities have recognised this commitment and allowed the airline to operate this daily service,” he concludes.
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NEPAL
Peaks, Temples and Casinos
T
o select the Himalayan country of Nepal as your tourist destination means you are entering into the kingdom of immaculate beauty, a place of historical monuments and religious significance - a perfect destination in every way. Nepal has a lot to claim as a typical tourist destination and assumes significance, as a place very much associated with the birth of Sri Buddha. Nepal is a country where the Himalaya’s most sophisticated urban cultures took place. Landlocked between China and India, this country is noted for its majestic beauty of nature, rich cultural heritage, towering pagodas and spectacular Himalayan ranges. It is also home to eight of the world’s 10 tallest mountains, including Mount Everest, the highest point on earth. If one wants to get connected to the sensibilities of the yesteryear Nepal, get to know of the history of kings and kingdoms, of rulers and the ruled, the best option is to visit the monuments, here. The impact of the Hippie movement in the 1970’s can still be seen in Nepal in its casinos and gambling industry. The founder of modern Nepal is King Prithvi Narayan Shah. He annexed the small principalities, including three states in the Kathmandu Valley and unified Nepal in to a single country. Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal, houses some of the best tourism sites, including old palace of Newar Kings and Kathmandu Durbar Square situated in Basantapur and listed as UNESCO world heritage site. The once famous Hippie
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NEPAL
Freak Street is also situated near Basantapur. Traditionally, Kathmandu is culturally richer than any part of Nepal. It was known for talented craftsmen, who constructed temples and statues in the Kathmandu Valley, out of which seven of them became world heritage sites. Considered to be the largest city in the world, Kathmandu is the cultural hub of Nepal and probably the hottest tourist destination, within the country. The glory of this Khukuri knife shaped city dates back to about 2000 years. Kathmandu is known for historical monuments, cultural groups and architectural wonders. It also offers ample opportunities for trekking expeditions. The casinos of Kathmandu are famous worldwide, as they are action-packed and make the night life rocking. These casinos run 24 hours and offer ultimate fun games and entertainment, including baccarat, blackjack, flush, poker, pontoon, roulette and other card games and slot
machines. There are four licensed casinos in Kathmandu, all located in the premises of the city’s top hotels.
Nepal’s attraction, however, is not limited to Kathmandu. The country is also famous for spiritual places or pilgrimage centres such as Lumbini, Kushinagar,
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The place is home to a number of temples, including Maya Devi temple and Puskarini Pond or Holy Pond, where the Buddha’s mother Queen Maya Devi took the ritual dip, prior to his birth. Tourists also often folk to Bodh Gaya, Sarnath and Kushinagar, in an earnest desire to see important places associated with the life of Buddha. Buddha is said to have obtained enlightenment at Bodh Gaya, while at Kushinagar he is believed to have attained Parinirvana after his death. Then, there are a number of tourist destinations in Nepal which are famous for their picturesque landscape. Bodh Gaya and Sarnath. Pokhara is just one among Lumbini, located in souththem. Known to be the western Nepal, is the birth Switzerland of Nepal, place of Sri Buddha Pokhara is located 200 (Siddhartha Gautama) and it kilometres west to Kathmandu valley. It has several beautiful lakes and offers stunning panoramic view of Himalayan peaks. The serenity of lakes and the magnificence of the Himalayas rising behind them create an ambience of peace and magic. One can also get a better view of Sarangkot and Thulakot from Pokhara. The place is also famous for is a holy place for millions of adventure activities like white Buddhists all over the world. Lumbini, known as the Mecca water rafting, kayaking and of every Buddhist, is situated mountaineering. Since Nepal is a home to in the Kapilavastu district of Nepal, near the Indian border. eight tallest peaks in the
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NEPAL world, it can be rightly be said a trekkers’ paradise. Nepalganj, a town in Nepal, is famous for the exciting treks to the Dopolo plateau and Jumla region. Along the way, one can enjoy open wild landscape and Shey Phoksumdo Lake that changes its colour with the change of weather. Known as the industrial and transport hub of the country, Nepalganj has in its basket attractions such as Bageshwari temple, Gharbaritole, Ganeshpur and Sadar Line. Another city worthy of mentioning is Patan, a destination for connoisseurs of fine arts. With a number of Hindu temples and Buddhist monuments, Patan showcases diversity of the medieval culture that allowed both Hinduism and Buddhism to flourish in the country. The city, birthplace of master craftsmen and artists such as Arniko and Kuber Singh Shakya, is known for its rich tradition of arts and handicrafts. One can find
wood and stone carvings, metal statues, ornate architecture and over 1200 monuments, at Patan. It is also called as city of festival and feast. Lovers of fine art should also visit Bhaktapur, an ancient city of Nepal that is famous for elegant art, fabulous culture, colourful festivals, traditional dances and indigenous life style of Newar community. Known as the Nepal’s cultural gem, it is a popular day-trip destination, for tourists visiting Kathmandu. Bhaktapur’s main square is the Durbar Square housing 55-window palace, constructed by King Bhupatindra Malla. Now, it is being kept as a national gallery. The beauty of the 55window palace is its Golden Gate, which is considered to be the most beautiful and rich specimen of its kind in the
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world. Golden Gate, bedecked with mysterious monsters and other mystical creatures, is the entrance to the main courtyard of the palace in Bhaktapur Durbar Square. It is also worth visiting Janakpur, also known as
religious festivals are set by astrologers, as per the lunar calendar. The best part about the festivals in Nepal is that all the events are celebrated with the same spirit and soul. For the Nepalese, festivals are not merely the annual
Janakpurdham, one of the historical and religious cities of Nepal. Here, one can find Janaki Mandir, one of the biggest temples in the country and it is also home to the only operational railway in Nepal. With more than 50 festivals in a year, Nepal is also a land of festivals. While the national festivals have fixed dates,
spectacles, but also a living part of their rich cultural heritage. Festivals effectively bind together the Nepalese people of diverse cultural backgrounds and beliefs into one nation. Most Nepalese festivals are related to different Hindu and Buddhist Gods and Goddesses.
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FACE TO FACE
Amazing Thailand Thailand Tourism is in an upbeat mood. Over the past several years, it has created enough tourism infrastructure and the efforts are still on to offer something new to travellers each year. In an Interview to Asian Traveller, Suraphon Svetasreni, Governor, Tourism Authority of Thailand, gave a an idea about major attractions of Thailand, its relentless efforts at developing tourism infra and Indian arrivals to this land. Edited Excerpts: Would you please update us on the current status of Thai Tourism? Thailand ended the year 2010 with a total of 15.9 million visitors, a 12.6 per cent increase, over the previous year. And, in the first eight months of this year, we have seen 12.9 million arrivals, which is a 27.6 per cent increase over the same period, last year. We expect the growth to be consistent and continue till the end of 2011. If there are no further global or local crises, we will be able to draw 18.5 million visitors and generate revenues to the tune of $23 billion. Is Indian arrival to the Thailand encouraging? What all measures have you taken to draw more Indian visitors to your country? India is today the biggest source market for visitors from South Asia and one of our fastest growing markets. In 2007, Indian visitor arrivals totalled over 536,000, crossing a half million mark for the first time. Since then, we have seen continuous growth and in the first eight months of 2011, we have received 628,000 Indian arrivals. If this growth rate continues, Indian arrivals are likely to cross one million mark, by 2012. When the Indian economy PARTNER COUNTRY HOSPITALITY PARTNER
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‘Amazing Thailand’ campaign in India. We have also worked on improving accessibility. Today, there are 157 direct weekly services between Bangkok and major Indian cities. This month, IndiGo became yet another airline to launch daily flights to Bangkok from both Mumbai and Delhi. As far as affordability is considered, Thailand is the best place for a nice holiday or a business event. We have effectively become an extension of India’s domestic market. This year, the TAT was awarded the Today’s Traveller Award for Most Innovative Promotions. This achievement would not have been possible, without the excellent support from our Indian travel partners. What will be main focus of your marketing strategy? As far as our marketing strategy is considered, we want to strengthen and sharpen Thailand’s image as a preferred tourist destination. Thailand is highly rated by many travel organisations as well as trade and consumer magazines. We consistently make a distinct and longlasting positive impression, on visitors. The Thai people
started becoming an international powerhouse we, Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), are probably among the first to realise these potentials. So in 2003 we upgraded our former marketing representative to a fullfledged marketing office in New Delhi and opened a second office in Mumbai, in 2009. At the same time, the Royal Thai government included Indians on the visaon-arrival nationalities, to facilitate entry into Thailand. It simply means you can visit Thailand and apply for the visa, before you enter the country. Then, we have received great support for our
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FACE TO FACE touch the hearts of visitors, with kindness, generosity, gracious and warm hospitality. It is this warmth and friendliness, an exceptionally endearing quality that visitors remember most about our country and which makes them come back on repeat visits, with family and friends. This distinctive emotional appeal of the Thailand brand, and the compelling attraction of what it represents, enables our country to bring back visitors quickly, whenever we face either international or domestic crises. That is why we have adopted the theme ‘Amazing Thailand: Always Amazes You’. Amazing Thailand is a wonderfully concise summary of what Thailand has to offer. We have extended the theme with ‘Always Amazes You’, to assure travellers something new, wonderful and exciting each time. We also have plans to capitalise on digital marketing, to strengthen Thailand’s tourism brand, by using social media as a key communications channel. Right now there are more than 200,000 fans in our social media network. TAT has recently won PATA
Gold Awards for ‘Amazing Thailand social networking’ in the Marketing - Primary Government Destination award category. Then, TAT is planning to promote balanced tourism in various dimensions, by ensuring that economic gain
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we, at the TAT, are also constantly working to ensure that the entire industry realises the importance of sustainable tourism as part of responsible tourism. In another move, TAT has established the Tourism Intelligence Unit and Crisis Communication Centre, to ensure effective crisis communications. The past 10 years have witnessed a remarkable improvement in our product range. Today, Bangkok has become one of the world’s most exciting tourism cities. Would you please brief us on the Thailand’s major attractions? In recent years, Thailand has become increasingly popular as a wedding and honeymoon location. One can find wedding planners, either independent or affiliated with tourist hotels and resorts, offering highly personalised services. Another attraction, I would does not come at the expense say, is golf. More and more of ecological destruction. TAT visitors are being increasingly will integrate the environseen walking the greens, at ment, economy and society our golf courses nationwide. into our marketing strategy, to There are at least a few achieve sustainable tourism courses in or within easy marketing. Although our reach of all major cities. Most responsibility is to market and of the newer courses offer promote tourism to Thailand, accommodation on site or nearby, in addition to recreational facilities for the whole family. There are several theme parks in the country that are perfect for children. No doubt, you will like Safari World, Siam Park City and Splash Jungle. Then, there is famous Chatuchak Weekend Market, where you can shop till you get exhausted. Next year, we will have a new attraction in Asiatique, a riverfront along the Chao Phraya River that will expand more shopping opportunities. PARTNER COUNTRY
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INDONESIA
Roam freely around the archipelago
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(formerly Borneo), Sulawesi (formerly Celebes), the Maluku Islands (better known as Moluccas, the original Spice Islands) and Papua, the archipelago has several unexplored islands with grand mountain views, green rainforests to trek through, rolling waves to surf and deep blue pristine seas to dive in and swim with dugongs, dolphins and large mantarays. Because of its location and geology, Indonesia is blessed with one the most diverse landscapes. Java and Bali have fertile rice lands, while Nusa Tenggara Islands are known for savannah. Sumatra, Kalimantan and Sulawesi are home to luxuriant rainforests, while West Papua is known for the snowcapped peaks. As of now, Indonesia’s tourism is centred on Bali, which is popularly known as the world’s best island resort. Bali is magical, as it blends spectacular mountain scenery and beautiful beaches, with warm and friendly people, a vibrant culture and out of this world resorts. Also known as the Land of the Gods, Bali
or many, the word vacation immediately conjures up visions of white sandy beaches, clear waters and abundance of sunlight. For all of you sandy beach lovers, who simply do not feel right without sand, here is Indonesia calling you with white sand stretched over miles of romantic coastline. It is the pristine white sandy beaches and its offshore islands that keep Indonesia on the tourist’s maps in the first place. A visit to any of its beaches is rewarded with cool sand beneath your feet and romantic views of its glowing skyline. The Republic of Indonesia is the largest archipelago in the world comprising more than 17,000 large and small tropical islands, fringed with white sandy beaches - many still uninhabited and several still unnamed. Situated between the continents of Asia and Australia and between the Pacific and the Indian Oceans, Indonesia is as wide as the United States, from San Francisco to New York. Besides well-known islands such as Sumatra, Java, Bali, Kalimantan PARTNER COUNTRY HOSPITALITY PARTNER
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INDONESIA
appeals through its sheer natural beauty and lush terraced rice fields that exude peace and serenity. Dramatic dances, colourful ceremonies, arts and crafts, luxurious beach resorts and exciting night life make Bali a hot destination, within the archipelago. This exotic island has much to offer in terms of inspirational spirituality, fine dining and meeting experiences, world class surfing and diving and exhilarating treks in the wild. In Bali, everywhere you will find intricately carved temples. The Balinese are a most devout people and a large part of their lives is dedicated to rites and ceremonies. Bali can be said as a miraculous island, as it continues to amaze both local and international visitors
alike, as a virgin destination. Visitors, who flock to surf the waves of Kuta, Uluwatu and Dreamland, enjoy the panoramic beauty of mountains and lakes at Batur, Kintamani or Lake Beratan at Bedugul and shop or spend endless days on the beach, turn Bali an all season destination. Besides the tale of sandy beaches, Indonesia also has a wild story to tell. Compared to the other parts of the world, it has the most diverse variety of animal species. Indonesia’s wildlife ranges from the prehistoric giant Komodo lizard, Orangutan, Java rhinoceros and Sulawesi anoa dwarf buffaloes, to birds with exquisite plumage like the cockatoo and the bird of paradise. The country is also the habitat of the Rafflesia (world’s largest flower), wild
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orchids, amazing variety of spices, aromatic hardwood and a large variety of fruit trees. When it comes to sea life, scientists have found the prehistoric coelacanth fish, in north Sulawesi. Then, there are hundreds of species of colourful coral and tropical
fish to admire. Take Taman Safari Indonesia, as it is the best way to enjoy the wildlife here. You will be able to get close to animals, study their habits and learn more about their environment. Taman Safari Indonesia or the Indonesian
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INDONESIA Safari Park is a conservation centre as well as a modern zoological garden, with various collections of flora and fauna. In this park, you can not only enjoy the beauty of nature, but also interact directly or watch the animals wander around freely. Visitors can also travel in this conservation area in their private cars, to explore amazing wild habitats. There are as many as three safari parks in Indonesia - Taman Safari I in Cisarua Bogor (West Java), Taman Safari II in Mount Arjuna, Prigen (East Java) and Taman Safari III (Bali Safari and Marine Park) in Serongga Gianyar, Bali. Among these three parks, Taman Safari I in Bogor is the most famous destination for both domestic and foreign travellers. It was built in 1930 and previously called Radio Safari Garden and Taman Safari Televisi Indonesia. It is also a buffer zone for Gunung Gede
Pangrango National Park and is situated around 900 to 1,800 meters above sea level. In these safari parks, one can find komodos, rhinoceros, bisons, sun bears, white tigers, elephants, anoa, etc.
Travelling with your children will certainly be an unforgettable experience. After watching animals in their habitats, you can take your children to enjoy various animal attractions performed
by orangutans, dogs and even goats. If your children like to see cowboys in action, then take them to the Wild-Wild West. It is a show in a cowboy-like setting. Indonesia has designated 44 national parks throughout the archipelago, covering both land and sea. Your journey, however, does not end with sandy beaches and national and safari parks. It is worth visiting Nusa Tenggara Islands that are known for savannah, grassland ecosystem featuring widely spaced, scattered trees. Another place that one may never want to miss out is the Japanese bunker in the town of Bukittinggi. Built by Indonesians for the Japanese soldiers, this 1,470 meter long underground bunker is 40 meters below Ngarai Sianok (Sianok canyon). There are 21 tunnels in the bunker, which were used as residences, meeting rooms, the Romusha (forced labourer) dining room, Page 74
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INDONESIA
Riding on the wings of Bali
The very name Indonesia evokes in many sweet memories they had in Bali, its main tourist attraction. However, there are several unexplored islands in the region, with grand mountain views, green rainforests to trek through, rolling waves to surf and deep blue pristine seas to dive in and swim with dugongs and dolphins. Now, efforts are being taken to attract tourists from Bali to other destinations. In an interview to Asian Traveller, Noviendi Makalam, Director for International Promotion, Ministry Culture and Tourism, Republic of Indonesia, threw light on several things, including its main markets, beyond Bali policy, plans to grow its other destinations and contribution of tourism to the country’s economy. Edited Excerpts: Indonesia has, of late, been a major attraction for tourists worldwide. In this wake, would you please give us a picture about your main markets? Traditionally we draw travellers from the South-EastAsian countries such as Singapore, Malaysia, Philippines and Thailand. They have been the main markets for Indonesian tourism for the last fifteen years or so. When it comes to India, the country is fast emerging as one of our main, or say, important as well as strategic markets. It is simply because the growth rate of Indian tourists to Indonesia has been higher than 15 per cent in last year. For instance, we have seen the tourist
arrivals from India shooting up to 1,45,000 in the last year, from a mere 50,000 in the past five years. How significant is the contribution of tourism to the economy of Indonesia? Last year, tourism contributed around $7.6 billion to the country’s overall economy. In terms of highest contributors to the country’s economy, we were in number four, after oil, gas and palm oil. We are far ahead of other manufacturing sectors and it has been so, since 1990’s. What are the main attractions of Indonesia? Till now, the most visited and the biggest contributor to Indonesian tourism is Bali. Although Bali has been
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attracting tourists since 1930’s, we made it more attractive to the tourists in the early 1970’s, with a very comprehensive master plan on tourism development. So, compared to other destinations, Bali is the most equipped and very pretty destination in Indonesia. Do you mean to say Bali is the USP of Indonesia? Yes, no doubt about it! That is why we now want to make Bali a tourist hub and we are designing unique plans to draw visitors from Bali to other destinations in the region. As an initial step, the government of Indonesia has already issued a policy of what we call ‘beyond Bali’. As per this policy, Bali will
always remain as the main destination but the aim is to attract visitors from Bali to other destinations in Indonesia. According to you, what are the factors acting as an impediment to the growth of Indonesian tourism? While admitting that we are facing challenges with our products and destinations, I must say, the main problem now is connectivity or accessibility from other countries/markets, to Indonesia. For example, in Indian market I came across very difficult situations, since none of our flight carriers, whether Indonesia or Air India, has direct connections/contacts from India to Indonesia or PARTNER COUNTRY
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FACE TO FACE vice versa. I think this is the main problem now. So, we are promoting tourism from India and we should also incorporate other ASEAN carriers. Lack of connectivity or accessibility makes our destination not so affordable to common or general tourists. That is why, in the past few years we saw only a segmented market of Indian tourists to Indonesia. I mean, we receive very high-end tourists from India, than the
general tourists, who belong to middle and upper middle class. In the high-end market segment, there are two categories –one is family of ITs and the second is MICE arrivals. Although the number is not significantly high compared to other markets, the spending capacity of this segment is quite high and they usually prefer to stay here for a longer period. We are very happy with the number of Indian tourist
arrivals to Indonesia this year. How important is Indian market for Indonesia? We now realise that India is the future of tourism, especially to Indonesia. We have so many things in common and moreover, the influence of Indian culture is very much evident in Indonesia. I am sure that India will be one of our biggest markets, in the near future. What are your plans to attract more Indian tourists to Indonesia?
Actually, every year we conduct fan trips for tour and travel operators as well as the media. It is conducted by the ministry of tourism. Such trips have also been conducted by the airlines, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Embassy and our Consulate General. Through this, we are targeting more arrivals from India. We also support fan trips conducted by Singapore airlines, Thai airways, etc., to grow Indonesian tourism.
Roam freely around the... Besakih Temple. It is located on the western slope of kitchen, prison, hearing room, Gunung Agung and referred torture room, espionage room, to as the Mother Temple of Hindu Bali. Above all, the ambush room and storage room (for ammunition). It also people here are warm and cordial and they welcome the houses an escape gate. travellers with innate Exploring this complex friendliness. The country also burrow of tunnels and caves offers standard can be a real adventure. The accommodation facilities to tunnels cover a vast area, nearly two hectares, and have the visitors. Facilities wise, it can be said, Indonesia’s hotels six doors. are second to none. One door is located in It has got a couple of Panorama Park, while others hotels located on white sandy access Sianok village in the beaches, overlooking green Ngarai Sianok ravine. river valleys, or situated in the Culturally, Indonesia heart of busy capital Jakarta. fascinates with her rich Cities like Jakarta, diversity of ancient temples, Bandung, Surabaya and music (ranging from Makassar are perfect places traditional to modern pop), for shopping and leisure dances, rituals and ways of life. Many of the world’s most activities. These cities offer ancient wonders can be found upscale boutiques, selling top brand names and local goods in Indonesia. at road-side stalls. And for From sacred temples, sheer relaxation, visit palace ruins and prehistoric Indonesia Spas to reinvigorate remains to living traditions, this largest archipelago in the both body and mind. Besides, its convention centers are world has a lot to offer to the equipped with state-of-the-art travellers. For instance, with facilities and therefore the its bright white walls and majestic black domes, the 130- archipelago is also a destination for holding year old grand mosque is a magnificent site. Then, there is exhibitions and trade fairs. Page 72
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“We are targeting more foreign arrivals” Despite the rich cultural heritage, long coastline and ancient monuments, Orissa is yet to grab proper attention of foreign tourists. This Indian state, which boasts Asia’s largest brackish water lake, has realised the need to draw more foreign arrivals to emerge as a major tourist spot. Efforts are already underway to spread awareness on its offerings to the travellers. Asian Traveller had a one-on-one with Hari Shankar Upadhyay, IFS, Director and Additional Secretary to Department of Tourism, Government of Orissa. He outlined the state government’s efforts to take Orissa tourism to the next level of growth. Edited Excerpts: How do you see your state as a tourism
making our move to take the state’s major
private participation.
destination?
attractions to the world.
What are the factors hampering the growth of
Do you have any innovative tourism product
the state’s tourism industry?
Our state is not well recognised as a tourism destination abroad. We were late to realise it and now having realised it we are
or project in the state?
We are just developing the much needed tourism infrastructure in the state. And then,
We are in the process of developing the
trying to reach out to the front locations in
whole of Orissa as a happening tourist spot.
lack of awareness of our offerings is another
different countries, to position Orissa as a hot
We are targeting travellers from Japan and Far
issue that limits arrivals to Orissa. Besides,
tourist spot. Every year, we attract more than
East, who usually travel up to Bodhgaya and
absence of connectivity has restricted the flow
78 lakh arrivals, including 40-50 thousand
Kushinagar, nowadays. We want them to come
of tourists to the state. For instance, since we
foreign tourists. But its (tourism industry’s)
do not have an international airport, we have
contribution to our gross domestic product
failed to attract Buddhist tourists.
(GDP) is not significant. We certainly want to
Will you turn to public private partnership
increase its contribution to GDP and that is the
mode to develop infra? We have already moved in that direction.
one of the main reasons, why we are targeting more foreign arrivals.
Last year, we have given several hotels to
Despite having several tourist attractions, why
private parties to run and this year we are
isn’t the government promoting the state as a
planning to give them around 20 more
destination?
properties. We are taking up PPP projects mainly in the Buddhist circle.
The government is doing its bit and that is
Can we expect Orissa to join hands with its
why we participate in exhibitions and conferences related to this booming industry.
to Orissa and see the place where Emperor
neighbouring states to develop tourism
And then, through advertisements in different
Asoka fought Kalinga war. After the war he
circuits?
magazines and discovery channels, we are
turned into a preacher and spread Buddhism
Right now we do not have any such plan.
in countries like Sri Lanka and other eastern
During your tenure as the tourism secretary,
countries. By the way, we are also targeting
what all things would you like to do for the
travellers from those countries.
Orissa tourism?
What is your marketing strategy?
We have already initiated PPP projects and I want to take it forward in a big way. We
We distribute advertising materials, mainly compact discs (CD) to different markets, to
want to develop several properties and we
spread awareness on the major attractions of
have already identified certain new sites. We
the state. We also heavily rely on visual media,
are likely to work on them very soon.
to promote our state. Infrastructure
Moreover, we will focus on adventure tourism,
development is another area we are focusing
eco-tourism and the like to draw more
on. Infrastructure will be developed with the
tourists.
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HOLIDAY
Sporting holidays gain ground in Europe
S
porting holidays are fast becoming a
(38 per cent) and cycling (23 per cent) tours.
years of age, German sporting holidaymakers
winning trend, throughout the world.
At 14 per cent, motor sports (car, motorcycle
may be a little older than the European
And the situation in Europe is no
and motorboat racing) occupy the third place,
average but in all other respects, they are no
different. According to the latest survey of the
while at 10 per cent, golf ranks fourth in the
different than other European citizens.
World Travel Monitor, commissioned by ITB
sporting popularity stakes.
Berlin, over the last five years, there has been
Among German sporting holidaymakers,
a double-digit increase in sporting holidays
hiking (34 per cent) and cycling (25 per cent)
among European tourists. If the latest figures
are the favourites among the top ten most
are any indication, sporting holidays have
popular sporting activities. The survey points
even overtaken cruise holidays, which five
out that nine per cent of the German sporting
years ago ranked ahead of the former.
holidaymakers prefer golf.
Survey shows that Germans in particular
“Sporting holidays are a niche segment,
are keenest on sports and account for 42 per
with a serious potential for tourism in the
cent of the nine million sporting holidays taken
future. A growing awareness of one’s body
by the Europeans abroad. At 14 per cent, the
and mind means that people are increasingly
Dutch rank second. However, in other
keen on improving their health, when on
European markets, sporting holidays make up
vacation,” says Dr Martin Buck, Director of the
only six per cent or less of the total market.
Competence Centre Travel and Logistics, at
Among sporting holidaymakers, the most popular destination is Austria, which among
With more than 170,000 visitors and
Messe Berlin. What is striking is that sporting
Europeans attracted 24 per cent of the market,
holidaymakers belong to the wealthier parts of
followed by Italy and Germany (11 per cent).
society and as such are a much targeted
over 10,000 exhibitors
During the last five years, Germans have
segment of the market. European sporting
from 180 countries, ITB Berlin is one of the
preferred Austria, for testing their sporting
holidaymakers average 43 years of age and
leading B2B platforms, offered by the tourism
limits. At 42 per cent, Austria ranks ahead of
most of them live in households, without
industry. In addition, the world’s largest
Italy (18 per cent) and Switzerland (14 per
children. More men than women are attracted
tourism convention on market trends and
cent).
to sports, when they are on holidays. At 45
innovations provides unique opportunities to tap the global tourism industry. ITB Berlin
The most popular activities among
2012 will be held from March 7-10, at Messe
European sporting holidaymakers are hiking
Berlin.
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NEWSLINE
Venice introduces tourist tax
V
isitors to the historic Italian city of Venice will be charged a tourist tax, to fund a £20 million restoration project, planned by the local council. Holidaymakers staying in this lagoon city will have to pay an extra fee, on top of their hotel room charges, which will go towards protecting and renovating the city. The fee will be charged on a sliding scale, depending on the star rating of the hotel. On average 60,000 people visit Venice each day, many of them Britons. The city is known as one of the top destinations for romantic weekend breaks in Europe. Sandro Simionato, Venice Deputy Mayor, defended the tax for La Serenissima as it is known, insisting that the city, which is a UNESCO world heritage site, was at risk. “This tax is a new and important opportunity for the city. The fundamental objective is to save this unique city, which is precious and fragile. The tax will help finance tourism, maintenance of cultural heritage sites, the environment as well as public services,” says Simionato.
A zerbaijan tourism partners with AHLEI, to bolster tourism sector
I
Azerbaijan Tourism
is emphasising the need for
Institute). Looking ahead, AZTA
developing tourism and creating
expected to assist AZTA in
plans to increase the number and
favourable conditions for visitors.
Association (AZTA) is planning to
meeting its goal of helping its
quality of training offerings,
We are honoured to be the
promote and market American
members to develop the quality of
applying AHLEI’s international
education and training provider of
Hotel and Lodging Educational
service offered to tourists, by
experience to Azerbaijan’s
choice. We hope our contributions
Institute’s (AHLEI) training and
organising seminars, workshops
hospitality sector. Earlier this
will assist Azerbaijan in meeting
educational products, both in
and training for staffs in several
year, President Ilham Aliyev had
their tourism goals,” says Robert
private and public sectors. AZTA
subjects (through joint programs
declared 2011 as the year of
L. Steele, AHLEI’s President and
and AHLEI have recently signed
with its local partner, the
tourism in Azerbaijan. “Azerbaijan
Chief Operating Officer.
n an effort to raise the regional and global competitiveness of Azerbaijan, Azerbaijan Tourism
outbound tourism. The relationship with AHLEI is
an international representation memorandum of understanding, to this effect. AZTA was established in 2009 with the help of Ministry of Culture and Tourism of the Republic of Azerbaijan and has been an affiliate member of the World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO), since July 2011. Its overall goal is to develop the tourism sector in Azerbaijan and to create a healthy, strong inbound and PARTNER COUNTRY HOSPITALITY PARTNER
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NEWSLINE
TTG Travel Agent Conference to be held in Singapore
I
n a bid to equip the travel agents to meet the needs of the changing times, to remain relevant in today’s market place, TTG Asia Media and ITB Asia have come together to host TTG Travel Agent Conference, first of its kind in Asia, at Suntec Singapore, an international convention and exhibition centre, on October 21, 2011. The conference will handle topics such as ‘can you handle the truth’, ‘can you handle online’ and ‘how to lose Hans Lerch, CEO , clients and Hotelplan Switzerland win complaints’, from satirical point of view. According to the organisers, the conference will be beneficial for the travel agents, as it is designed in such a way to impart key success mantras that they can immediately apply to business. The conference is learnt to throw more light on
‘how to retail travel today’, ‘how to buy travel today’, ‘how to achieve customer service excellence’ and how to customise travel. “The conference sessions will also feature practical howto’s,” smile the event organisers. As per the available information, Hans Lerch, CEO of Hotelplan Switzerland, will paint a macro picture of the future of the travel agency business, while Martin Symes, CEO of WEGO, will guide agents on how they can make money online. Besides, HuiWan Chua, Senior Regional Director Asia, Travelport, will show agents how to be effective in travel retailing and Charee Guico, Manager, Travel Agent Distribution South-East Asia, Expedia, will explain about buying travel more effectively in today’s world of multi-channels. Among other things,
Arthur Kiong, MD, Hotel Operations Asia-Pacific and Senior Vice President - Group Marketing Services, Banyan Tree Hotels & Resorts, will detail how customers are changing and the key areas agents need to reboot, in order to service more sophisticated, demanding and empowered clients, today. Also, there will be a session that will throw insights into how new dream
merchants, such as John Sutherland, CEO, Dreamscape Journeys, who sells space travel, get their ideas for unique travel experiences and how they get the clients, to buy these ideas. Registration for this free conference will open on August 19, 2011, on a firstcome-first-served basis. To register, visit www.ttgasia.com.
ItzCash ties up with Cox & Kings, to tap online air ticketing market
T
In the rapidly growing online
o tap the business
facilitating easy online air ticket
prominent travel portals and travel
opportunities presented by
booking. With this move, all Cox &
agencies like Yatra.com,
travel booking market, it seems,
the rapidly growing online
Kings customers can now avail
Cleartrip.com, Makemytrip.com,
cash cards have emerged as the
travel booking market, ItzCash
the benefits of booking their
Thomas Cook, etc., to provide
preferred mode of payment.
Card Ltd., one of India’s leading
tickets online, by using ItzCash
better travelling experience to
According to the 90Di survey, in
cash card companies, has tied up
card.
travellers.
India, 54 per cent of air ticket
The tie-up is a part of ItzCash’s
with Cox & Kings.
In a short span of five years,
booking is done online, with cash
plans to expand its market reach
ItzCash has expanded its reach to
cards cornering a 28.8 per cent
ItzCash to consolidate its
in the travel segment, where it
service millions of customers, in
share of the total online ticket
position in the market, by
already enjoys associations with
the travel segment.
booking.
The tie up is expected to help
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NEWSLINE
WITovation Awards to be presented at WIT conference
T
his year’s WIT conference, scheduled to be held in Singapore from October 17-19, 2011, will witness the introduction of a series of awards to recognise companies or individuals, which have made a difference in a chosen field, either through a specific marketing campaign or an overall strategy, in the digital travel space in 2011. Presented by Amadeus Asia, these WITovation Awards will cover four categories – Social Groover,
brilliantly used the mobile device to engage with customers, whether pre-trip, in-destination or post-trip and to inform, inspire and transact. When it comes to the Specialista category, Amadeus Asia plans to select a company that has most successfully carved out a social media to tell a story, niche so cool and deep, told engage with the customer to its story well online, engaged improve service, increase loyalty and improve revenues, well with its customers and delivered an outstanding while in Mobile Mover experience, for the award. In section, the WITovation Customer Lover section, the award will be given to the award will be extended to the company, which has most Mobile Mover, The Specialista and Customer Lover. In Social Groover category, the award will be presented to the company, which has made the most awesome use of
company that most understands the changing needs of the new customer and puts customer experience and customer service at the core of what it does. “Nominations are open till August 31 and they will be vetted by a panel of judges, who will look into things such as a clear demonstration of great use of the medium (or media) in the chosen category, what was the message and how well it was delivered and creativity in concept, execution and delivery, etc.,” say the organisers.
Shangri-La group voted the top Asia-Pacific business hotel
S
hangri-La Hotels and Resorts has been voted the Best Business Hotel brand in Asia Pacific for the eleventh consecutive year, in a readers’ poll conducted by Business Traveller AsiaPacific magazine. In total, the group has bagged eight awards, including the Best Business Hotel in the World and in Singapore (to ShangriLa Hotel, Singapore) and the Best Business Hotel in Asia Pacific and in Hong Kong (to Island Shangri-La). The awards were presented during a special luncheon in Hong Kong, on September 9, 2011. The poll was conducted among the magazine’s frequent traveller subscribers based mainly in the Asia-
Pacific region. Results will be published in the October 2011 issue of Business Traveller Asia-Pacific. “We are very honoured to be recognised as the top AsiaPacific business hotel brand by Business Traveller AsiaPacific’s readers, for the eleventh consecutive year,” smiles Greg Dogan, President and Chief Executive Officer, Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts. Hong Kong-based ShangriLa Hotels and Resorts currently owns and/or manages 72 hotels, under the Shangri-La, Kerry and Traders brands, with a rooms inventory of over 30,000. Shangri-La hotels are five-star deluxe properties, featuring extensive luxury facilities and
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services. The group has presence in countries such as Australia, Canada, mainland China, Fiji, France, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Japan,
Malaysia, Maldives, Philippines, Singapore, Sultanate of Oman, Taiwan, Thailand and the United Arab Emirates.
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NEWSLINE
Oman to host third global geo-tourism conference
I
n an attempt to showcase Oman’s geo-tourism potential and to create a platform for local tourism industry to share experiences with international geotourism experts and operators, Oman Tourism Ministry will host the third global geo-tourism conference at the Grand Hyatt Muscat, Oman, from October 30 to November 1, 2011. To be coconvened by the Ministry of Tourism and Prof Ross Dowling from Edith Cowan University in Western Australia, this conference is expected to attract around 300 delegates, including international tourism specialists and agencies. “Oman’s high natural values are a core element of its tourism strategy and a few destinations can match the
power and diversity of its landscapes. So, we are delighted to host this event,” smiles Mohammad Ali Bin Said, Oman Tourism’s acting undersecretary. The ministry informed that there won’t be a delegate fee for the conference and its associated events. The theme chosen for the Muscat conference is ‘seeing destinations differently’. The ministry is expected to use the conference, to launch several geo-tourism trails in the Muscat area, with tour information and navigation able to be viewed on 3G telephones. “The ministry hopes that interested people from abroad, domestic tourism students and industry partners will jump at the opportunity and attend the conference, to learn about geo-tourism and network
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with the world leaders. It is a great opportunity,” he adds. According to Ross Dowling, co-convener of the conference, geo-tourism is an emerging international segment. “More people are travelling to see and learn about remarkable landscapes and geological features. Therefore, providing easily understood geological information adds to the visitor experience. We have roped in speakers from the IUCN, UNESCO, etc., to demonstrate growing interest in many
aspects of geo-tourism,” Dowling elaborates. “I am sure that attending the conference and seeing Oman will give others the same enjoyment, I have had travelling the length and breadth of Oman. It’s a peaceful and culturally vibrant destination and one of the world’s leading geotourism destinations. You must see it first-hand, to feel its powerful landscapes and the warmth of hospitality shown by the Omani people,” he concludes.
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NEWSLINE
Hyatt makes entry in Chennai
A
s part of its expansion
for the leading brands across
plans, Hyatt Hotels
industries.
Corporation recently
It is a key business hub, for
opened Hyatt Regency, a 327-
the corporate travellers. It was our
room hotel, in Chennai. Located at
strategic move to bring the Hyatt
Anna Salai, this hotel is expected
Regency brand to Chennai and
to cater to the needs of business
through this move we will
and leisure travellers. Hyatt
introduce and deliver our
Regency,
authentic
Chennai, among
hospitality, to this
other things,
market space and ensure that our
features 20,000
International – South-West Asia.
national artists. The artwork is
square feet of convention and
customers have better
event space, all-day dining
connectivity across the globe, as
houses one of the largest
of ‘madhu’, ‘kriti’ and ‘vriti’ that
restaurant Spice Market and
Chennai is clearly an important
collections of publicly displayed
speaks of the symbiotic
Chinese restaurant, Stix.
crossroad for several people,”
art installations in the country,
relationship the bees share with a
“This Indian port city has
says an apparently joyous Peter
created by more than 40
flower. The hotel will soon open its
become a destination of choice,
Fulton, Managing Director, Hyatt
prominent international and
Italian restaurant Focaccia.
The Hyatt Regency, Chennai,
custom made around the concept
India to have annual travel mart event, to promote tourism
T
he Federation of Indian
GDTB was taken at the recently
India Card’ and will be introduced
travellers from India is almost 15
Chambers of Commerce &
concluded one-day domestic
shortly. According to Dr Jyotsna
per cent. Data shows that inbound
Industry (FICCI) will initiate
tourism conclave, organised
Suri, Chairperson, FICCI Tourism
travellers are not high spenders,
one more travel mart event, Great
jointly by FICCI, Ministry of
Committee, the decision to launch
whereas Indians are considered
Domestic Tourism Bazaar (GDTB),
Tourism, Govt. of
a dedicated travel
as high spenders overseas and
exclusively dedicated to domestic
India and
mart for domestic
other economies are benefiting
tourism. The event will be
Association of
tourism has been
from Indian travellers,” explained
organised in New Delhi, every
Domestic Tour
taken to exploit
Dr Suri.
August.
Operators of India, in New Delhi.
The event will be on the lines
In yet another move, FICCI,
the spending nature of the Indian travellers.
She said Indian travel and tourism industry can benefit and
“While the number of inbound
of FICCI’s successful inbound
with its knowledge partner Yes
mart, Great India Travel Bazaar
Bank, is working on launching a
travellers into the country is
outbound traffic can be tapped
(GITB), organised annually in
travel card for tourists. This card
growing at a rate of three per cent
and induce them to take a holiday,
Jaipur. The decision to launch
will be marketed as ‘Yes Incredible
annually, the growth in outbound
within the country.
more jobs can be created, if the
Planet Hospitalit y eyes inbound and outbound travel market
A
fter making its presence
promote and sell India as a
domestic market. The next
circuits. We have already begun
felt in the domestic
destination to the UK market and
obvious step is to enter the
designing the packages and they
market, Mumbai-based
similarly sell Far-East and
inbound and outbound sector.
should be available to travellers
Planet Hospitality is set to foray
European destinations, to the
Selling India to UK travellers and
by the second half of 2012. Our
into inbound and outbound travel,
Indian travellers.
Far-East and Europe to our Indian
focus will mainly be on leisure
clients is our first step, as these
tourists,” says Ashok Lal, Director,
destinations are popular in both
Planet Hospitality.
by the second half of 2012. The company’s plan is to
“So far, we have been selling holidays extensively to the Indian
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NEWS LINE
A leap, forward
I
f the growth momentum is anything to go by, tourism in Sri Lanka is progressing at a fast pace. The island nation, with several mesmerising destinations, has reported a 32.3 per cent increase in tourist arrivals in July 2011, compared to the comparable period last year. Based on the data gathered by the Sri Lankan government, it is the highest figures, since December last year. Lanka has attracted more visitors and tourism related investment, since the end of a
25-year civil war. For instance, 654,476 arrivals in 2010 smashed the previous all-time high of 566,202 in 2004, when a peace accord was in place. Last year’s tally was 46.1 per cent higher than the year before. President Mahinda Rajapaksa’s government has facilitated $1.2 billion in tourism investment, so far in 2011. In July this year, Lanka saw arrivals of 83,786, against 63,330, in July 2010. In December last year, Lanka had recorded 84,627 tourist arriv-
als. In the first seven months of 2011, tourist arrivals have jumped 36.1 per cent to 465,324, compared to the same period a year ago. Sources say that the government is targeting annual revenue of $2.5 billion by 2016, from visitors coming to explore this beautiful pearl of the Indian Ocean. With
revenues flowing in from tourism, the government is confident of garnering at least $1.5 billion in foreign investment, for the proposed ‘tourism city’, replete with hotels, shopping centres and a convention centre, in Katana, a coastal town located 15 Kms north of the commercial capital, Colombo.
Delhi’s T3 to remain India’s largest terminal
A
s the Delhi Interna tional Airport Ltd does not see the need to expand the Delhi airport, Terminal three (T3) will continue to remain the largest terminal in the country, for the next five to eight years. “We will not have to go in for the expansion of airport, for at least five to eight years, as the
alone can handle 34 million passengers a year, is the eighth largest passenger terminal in the world, in terms of size. The Delhi airport shot into limelight after the inauguration of T3, by the Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, in July 2010. With the addition of T3,
The terminal has 48 boarding gates, 63 elevators and 78 aerobridges, including three aerobridges that cater exclusively to the Airbus A380 planes. It has 168 check-in and 90 immigration counters, with a special counter for business and first-class travelers.
The Delhi airport is operated by Delhi International Airport Ltd., a joint venture company led by the GMR Group. Other stake holders include Airports Authority of India, Germany’s Fraport and Malaysian Airport Holdings.
CEC eyes Indian hospitalit y and entertainment sector
W
ith a focus on major top tier cities, Caesars Entertainment Corp (CEC), a Las Vegas-based gaming company, is set to
enter the hospitality industry in India, through its hospitality brand Caesars Global Life. The company will develop a non-gaming presence and build a range of luxury hotels in South Asia, with entertainment and retail as integral components. “We see opportunities across multiple sectors in India. However,
existing capacity will be able to handle passenger growth,” says a GMR spokesperson, requesting anonymity. Currently, the airport has a capacity to handle 60 million passengers annually. It can be raised to 100 million, by building two more terminals, in phases. Delhi’s T3, which
the capacity of the Delhi airport has increased from 12 million in 2007 to 60 million. In its first year of operation, T3, which caters to both international and domestic operations of Air India, Jet Airways and Kingfisher Airlines, etc., handled 20 million passengers.
PARTNER COUNTRY HOSPITALITY PARTNER
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our initial focus will be on resort and holiday destinations. We are now looking forward to partnering with world-class developers, to foray into the Indian market,” says Neera Chanani, Head - South Asia, Caesars Entertainment Hospitality. Caesars Global Life has been set up to develop branded luxury hotels, restaurants and other lifestyle amenities, in resort destinations around the world. CEC operates over 50 casinos, hotels and seven golf courses under several brands. CEC is the third casino-gaming company to foray into India, after MGM Mirage Hospitality and Thunderbird Resorts Inc.
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NEWS LINE
KTO opens Mumbai branch to tap Western India potential
I
n its effort to strengthen tourism relations with India and tap the Western India market, Korea Tourism Organisation (KTO) has opened a representative office in Mumbai. This new office will work with airlines to encourage new services to Korea, coordinate with media houses to promote major destinations in the country and work towards wooing more travellers to this East Asian country. KTO has its Indian office in Delhi. The new office, among other things, will focus on creating awareness on the destination and luring travellers from segments such as meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibition (MICE), leisure travellers and honeymooners. KTO is also making calculated steps to attract the film industry, to this picturesque destination. Korea, a fast emerging destination, is one of the most picturesque destinations for the Indian travellers and it is well connected through air, by Korean Air, Asiana Airlines, etc. The country has four distinct seasons - spring, summer, autumn and winter. Its spring season coincides with the Indian summer season, making it an ideal getaway to escape from the scorching heat in the country. As per the available information available, Korea is eyeing a 20 per cent increase in travellers from the Indian market this year. Last year,
about 86,547 Indian travellers visited Korea, an increase of 18.9 per cent from 2009. For the discerning Indian outbound travellers, Korea holds a promise of unique and new experiences. It’s a destination of choice for an
increasing number of people, looking for fresh air, stimulating culture, adventure activities, health and wellness. In addition, Korea offers a vibrant nightlife and non-stop 24 hour fabulous shopping opportunities. “Our new office in Mumbai will help us spread awareness on Korea’s many attractions and state-of-the-art facilities in the country, to further develop business and leisure travel,” says a confident Jae Sang Lee, Director, KTO India. “We look
tourism is a growing phenomenon worldwide. We realise the importance and the reach of the Indian film industry and plan to encourage Indian producers and studios, to film in Korea,” smiles Lee. KTO has a strong promotional programme in place for 2011 and 2012, to highlight various facets of the destination. “We would like to create detailed information and product knowledge to the travel trade. This year, our focus is to promote the destination through advertisements, joint promotions, trade shows, familiarisation trips and a food festival on a pan India basis,” informs Lim.
Visa on arrival scheme proves a success
I
f the latest figures are any indication, the government’s visa on arrival (VoAs) scheme, introduced in January 2010 to attract more foreign tourists to India, is slowly but steadily gaining ground. In the month of July 2011, a total of 820 VoAs were issued to foreign tourists and with this, the number of VoAs issued in the first half of this year has reached 6594. The maximum number of VoAs were
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forward to working closely with airlines and the Indian travel industry, to tap this growing market,” he adds. Conventions held in Korea usually attract a very high percentage of international attendees, particularly from the auto, medical, high-tech and finance sectors. Hence, KTO is also planning to tap these segments. “We are placing significant emphasis on positioning Korea as a leisure and MICE destination among Indian travelers, as we see a big demand from the market,” maintains Dr. Charles Lim, Deputy Director, KTO. Besides, there are plans to woo Indian filmmakers to shoot their movies in various locations in Korea. “Film
SEPTEMBER 2011
issued at Delhi airport (3653), followed by Mumbai (1484), Chennai (1125) and Kolkata (332). Initially, the scheme was introduced for the citizens of five countries – Finland, Japan, Luxembourg, New Zealand and Singapore – visiting India for tourism purposes. The government has extended this scheme for the citizens of six more countries Cambodia, Indonesia, Vietnam, Philippines, Laos and Myanmar, in January 2011.
PARTNER COUNTRY HOSPITALITY PARTNER
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NEWS LINE
Le Royal Meridien gets the tag of best business hotel in south India
I
n what can be considered as a
largest pillar less ball room, in
moment of success, Chennai-
Chennai. Put together with
based Le Royal Meridien has
luxuriously appointed rooms and
bagged Today’s Traveller Award
F&B outlets, Le Royal Meridien is
2011, for the best business hotel
the best business hotel in
in South India.
Southern India,” reads the citation
Its managing director A Sennimalai received the award from the Tourism Minister Subodh
of the award, presented to the hotel. Le Royal Meridien, Chennai,
Kant Sahay, at the 14th annual
opened in December 2000, has
celebrations of Today’s Traveller,
set up a new bench mark in the
held in New Delhi, recently.
hospitality industry and has
Today’s Traveller awards are given
emerged as a leading five star
every year to recognise and
deluxe hotel in South India. “We
honour outstanding performers in
attempt to achieve efficiency and
the corporate, travel and tourism
quality in as many ways as
sectors. Le Royal Meridien,
possible. In my lexicon,
Chennai is owned by PGP group.
excellence is a powerful mix of
“Le Royal Meridien, Chennai
Managing Director Sennimalai receives award from the Tourism Minister Subodh Kant Sahay
cost minimisation and
has achieved world-class
maximisation, of efficiency and
organisation more vibrant and
IDD phone lines, interactive
standards as a premium business
quality,” smiles Dr Palani G
successful,” adds Periasamy.
television, data port, high-speed
hotel, because it has set high
Periasamy, Chairman and Founder
bench marks of excellence which
of PGP Group of Companies.
have been remarkably well
He strongly believes that it is
Stressing that the hospitality
internet access, etc. “Excellence
industry has to understand the
is a lifelong journey, one that is
changing dynamics in the service
constantly setting new
executed by every level of staff, at
imperative to improvise and
standards and the needs of the
benchmarks, as values change
the hotel. Ideally located between
change, according to the
corporate business travellers, he
continuously. It is a journey that
the airport and the business
changing dynamics of the
says it is imperative to offer them
we will undertake along with our
districts, the hotel has a wide
hospitality industry. “Customer
high-tech inputs in the guest
associates, so that excellence
variety of business and
preferences are in a constant flux
room, as today’s hotel rooms have
becomes a byword in the daily
banqueting facilities and a choice
and the industry must accordingly
to provide the facilities of working
scheme of things, at Le Royal
of small meeting rooms. The
change and adapt new
place. At Le Royal Meridien, all
Meridien, Chennai,” signs off the
Grand Madras Ball Room is the
techniques, to make the
rooms have king-sized beds, two
group chairman.
Meluha wins environment friendly hotel award
M
eluha The Fern, a luxury
system.
five star business hotel
Since the hotel sports all the
in Powai, Mumbai, has
contemporary facilities and
won Today’s Traveller Award 2011,
amenities, staying here will be a
for the best environment friendly
memorable experience for the
hotel. Managed by Concept
guests. Its rooms have been
Hospitality Pvt. Ltd., Meluha The
designed to live up to the
Fern is a high-end business hotel,
grandeur of contemporary
honoured with the leadership in
princely living, with befitting
energy and environmental design
aesthetic appeal. Concept
(LEED) certification, for
on reducing energy use,
Hospitality has in place a system
Hospitality Group has hotels in
construction and Ecotel
greenhouse gas emissions,
to monitor, manage and
key metros and tourist
certification, for operational
pollution and waste. The
continuously improve its
destinations, offering high
practices. The hotel is focussed
recognition shows that Concept
environmental management
standards of hospitality.
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MANIPUR TRAVELLER
Rustic beauty
W
Manipur is also known for its
ith its bounteous vistas
for a stunning combination of wet
of untrammelled natural
forests, temperate forests and
arts and crafts. It has a matured
beauty and ancient
pine forests and in them a host of
handloom industry, which is
traditions, Manipur, known as the
rare and endemic flora and fauna.
eyeing the export market. There is
jewel of India, is fast emerging as
Manipur is also a home to about
a saying that every woman of
a favourite destination, attracting
500 varieties of orchids, of which
Manipur is a born weaver. The
huge numbers of both domestic
472 have been identified. Some of
traditional skill of weaving is not
and foreign travellers. The state
the world’s rarest orchids are
only a status symbol for its
has, of late, seen a quantum jump
found here. One can also find rare
womenfolk, but also an
in tourist arrivals, as the Indian
hoolock gibbon, spotted linshang
indispensable aspect of the socio-
home ministry has excluded the
(python) and slow loris, in its
economic parameters of the state. It is one of the best places in
entire area from the
India for buying dazzling range of sarees, sarongs, shawls, bedspreads, ‘lifan’, ‘phak’, ‘phiruk’, traditional Manipuri dolls and artefacts carved from soft exotic timbers. Known as the land of Radha and Krishna, Manipur has the best of traditions and gifted to India’s classical dance repertoire her lyrical RasLeela dance that reenacts the love story of Radha and Krishna. The Lai protected area regime, last year.
forests. Indigenous to Manipur’s
Haraoba (spring festival) is
Surrounded by seven blue hills,
rich natural heritage is the Sangai,
celebrated with the Manipuri’s
this oval valley is a home to
rare brow-antlered deer. It’s the
graceful movements in all dance
numerous tourist spots and
state animal of Manipur and can
forms and the festival will be a
colourful communities. Travellers,
be found in and around the Loktak
memorable experience for the
who flock to Manipur, often
Lake. Loktak Lake is the largest
travellers.
appreciate the serenity of its
fresh water lake in India and is
pristine and isolated environs. The
regarded as the only floating lake
state with numerous tourist spots.
best time to visit this land is
in the world, largely due to the
Its capital, Imphal, is a bustling
October-March.
floating ‘phumdis’ on it. Manipur’s
mini-metropolis, which has
avifaunal wealth includes
harmonised itself seamlessly into
The jewel of India is famous
Burmese
its beautiful natural environment.
peafowl,
The pretty township, located at a
Blyth’s
height of 790 m, is the heart of the
tragopan,
official, commercial and cultural
Nongyeen (its
activities of the state. It is the best
state bird)
place for the visitors to savour
Mrs Hume’s
Manipuri culture, in all its richness
barbacked
and variety. Some of the
pheasant and
attractions in and around Imphal
four different
include Shree Shree Govindajee
species of
Temple, Kangla Royal Palace,
hornbills.
Khwairamband Bazaar, State
PARTNER COUNTRY HOSPITALITY PARTNER
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Manipur can well be said as a
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SEPTEMBER 2011
MANIPUR TRAVELLER Museum, War Cemeteries and Sadu Chiru waterfalls. Imphal’s historic Vaishnavite centre Shree Shree Govindajee Temple is located close to Kangla Royal Palace, home to Manipur’s royals, since the reign of King Pakhangba (33 AD). It features twin domes, a paved courtyard and a great assembly hall, where devotees congregate to participate in various devotional activities. On either side of the presiding deity, one can see shrines of Krishna and Balaram and Jagannath. If you ever visit this temple, ensure to watch
Then, there are two war
RasLeela held here, as they are
cemeteries in the city, managed
picnic destination in Sadu Chiru
exceptional. The temple usually
by the Commonwealth War Graves
waterfalls. Located in the Koubru
sees huge gatherings of devotees
Commission, to commemorate the
range, 22 kilometres from Imphal,
during the Holi and Rath Yatra
Indian and British soldiers who
it offers basic amenities for the
festivals. It has Mahabalee
died during the Second World War.
tourists. The waterfall attracts an
Temple, Narasimha Temple, Mani
This cemetery reminds the
average of 500 visitors daily.
Mandir (ISKON) and Sanamahee
passers-by about the heroic
Temple, within a radius of five
deeds of the soldiers, who fought
explore the jewel of India in-depth,
kilometres. Don’t forget to visit
bravely for their nations, during
it is a must to visit Loktak Lake,
Kangla Palace, as it reflects the
the Second World War. The war
one of the most enchanting and
centre of Manipur’s power base till
cemetery is located 10 Kms from
biggest freshwater lakes in the
1891. This historic palace is a
capital city. A visit to the war
country. It is located just 45
As you move from Imphal to
reminder of its rulers and
kilometres from Imphal.
the importance they
Once you are at the lake,
signified for the people of
head to Sendra Tourist
Manipur.
Complex as it will offer
Add Imphal’s
dazzling views of the lake,
Khwairamband Bazaar or
its rich plant, avian life,
IMA Keithel to your itinerary,
intriguing floating weed
as it is quite an unusual
and shallow bowl-like
market - almost 3000 Imas
biomass (phumdis).
or mothers man the stalls in
Situated in the middle of
this unique bazaar. It was
the lake, the tourist home
revamped recently to
comes with a café and
include modern amenities,
alpine huts. On the
but preserving the centuries
southern part of the lake
old traditions. This market is
you can find the Keibul
a must visit for any tourists.
Lamjao National Park, the
Another attraction is its
only floating national park
State Museum, which
in the world. The entire
displays a fine collection of
lake complex is a wildlife
articles related to Manipur’s
enthusiast’s dream.
tribal culture and portraits of
To experience the
its former rulers. Located
nature at its best, pay a
near the Polo Ground, the
visit to Ukhrul, Manipur’s
museum also features
popular and highest hill
collection of arms and
cemetery of Imphal is sure to
station. Situated about 83
ammunitions, relics, costumes
evoke patriotism in the minds of
kilometres from Imphal, Ukhrul is
and historical documents.
the visitors.
famous for lovely Shiroy lilies,
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Imphal also has a popular
SEPTEMBER 2011
PARTNER COUNTRY HOSPITALITY PARTNER
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MANIPUR TRAVELLER endemic to the state. One can
the Siroy Hills (for trekking
enjoy their blooms in the months
and mountaineering) Tharon
of May and June. It is also worth
and Khangkhui caves (for
visiting nearby Lime Caves of
caving adventures) and
Khangkhui, as you head to your
Koirengei Old Airfield and
next destination in the region. For
Chingnungkok hillock at
those seeking a bit of adventure,
Lamlai (for parasailing and
its Senapati district has a lot to
paragliding). Manipur also
offer, as it is endowed with
is home to the Adventure
kaleidoscopic landscape of blue
Tourism Complex (250
hills, green valleys and serpentine
hectares), managed by the
streams and rivers flowing
Manipur Mountaineering
through mountains and deep
Institute of MMTA.
gorges. Another destination to get a
Two of the popular marital arts in this Indian
taste of the wilderness of the
state are Thang-Ta and
nature is Tamenglong. Main
Sarit-Sarak. In the Manipuri
attractions of this district include
language, ‘thang’ means sword
ensure that you visit
Tharon Cave, Zeilad Lake, Barak
and ‘ta’ means spear. As its name
the Govindaji temple, as it is an
commencing from
waterfall, Kitccha hill and Buning
implies, the sword and spear are
important venue for the
the full-moon day of the lunar
meadow.
the primary weapons employed in
performances of famous
month of Phalgun (Feb-March), is
thang-ta. While thang-ta involves
RasLeela. The temple also
also a crowd-puller. Main
using weapons
organises ‘Kang’ (rath yatra), one
attraction of the festival is Thabal
against one or
of the greatest festivals celebrated
Chongba, folk dance performed
more opponents,
by the Hindu community. Spread
by a set of boys and girls, to the
Sarit Sarak is the
over 10 days, the festivities are
rhythmic beating of drums and
art of fighting
dedicated to the Lord Jagannath,
other instruments.
empty-handed
who leaves his temple in a Ratha
against armed or
pulled by many devotees, who vie
Nagai-Ni is the seed sowing
unarmed
for the honour of doing this
festival, celebrated by Nagas. It is
opponents. A
service for the lord. The festival is
a time for feasting, social
great deal of
usually held at the Place
gatherings and dancing and
dexterity and
compound. The Bijoy Govinda,
singing. Kut, another famous
practice are
ISKON and several other temples
festival of the jewel of India is
needed to
also organise the Rath Yatra
observed annually on November
perform these
festival.
1. Kut is the autumn festival of the
Besides the flora and fauna, temples and places
centuries old ritualistic marital arts, which
Its Yaoshang festival, which is celebrated for five days,
Observed on February 15, Lui-
various tribes of the Kuki-ChinMizo groups, residing in Manipur.
of historic importance, Manipur
involves spears, swords and
It is a thanks-giving
also has got a lot to offer to the
shields. Rules have to be abided
festival dedicated to the
tourists. If you love adventure
strictly. Today, both women and
lord for a good harvest.
sports, you are sure to find ample
children are proficient in these
opportunities to indulge in the
martial arts.
same, as this Indian state has set
If you want to explore what Manipur has to offer and experience
It would be great if one could
up nodal agencies to promote
plan one’s visit to Manipur to
them, plan your trip at
different adventure sports and
coincide with its fairs and
the earliest. Reaching
impart training. The indigenous
festivals, as it will provide a
Manipur is easy, as its
martial arts and games of Manipur
golden opportunity to
capital Imphal is
have become world-renowned and
experience the true essence of
connected by air from
they are an important feature of
its culture. The state’s popular
Delhi, Guwahati and
the tourist experience in this
festivals include Basanta
Kolkata. The nearest
lovely state. Some of the
Purnima and Kartika Purnima,
railhead is Dimapur.
adventure sports sites in the state
Lui-Nagai-Ni, Kang, Yaoshang
Imphal is also connected
include Loktak Lake (for water
and Kut. If you happen to be in
by road with Kohima,
sports), Barak river (for rafting),
Manipur during the Basanta
Guwahati, Silchar and
Mount Isii and Dzüko Valley, and
Purnima and Kartika Purnima,
Shillong.
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FACE TO FACE
Despite its natural beauty, bountiful flora and fauna, fascinating culture and adventure tourist spots, Manipur has not so far emerged as a favourite destination. Asian Traveller also learnt that things are not much different with other north eastern states, which are popularly known as seven sister states. In a candid interview, K K Chhetry IAS, Commissioner - Tourism, Government of Manipur, took us through the factors acting as impediments to the growth of tourism industry in the jewel of India as well as in other north eastern states and their plans to join their hands together, to propel the tourism industry in this belt. Edited Excerpts:
On: Mission Northeast Where is Manipur placed in the tourism map of India and what are the main reasons for that? A relevant question, indeed! In the tourism map of India, Manipur is placed very low, for reasons that are obvious. I would say lack of (road) connectivity is the main impediment to the growth of tourism in this Indian state. Road is the terminal location of the state in the eastern boundary and it has created its own troubles for the growth of tourism in the state. Have you envisaged any plans to promote the state as a tourist destination? If yes, what is your strategy? We realise the need to do road shows, to attract the travel agents and tour operators, who will in turn bring tourists to the state. As far as tourism is concerned, our strength lies in natural beauty and fascinating culture. We can take our culture to the people belonging to other states, through road shows and participating in certain events and fairs held across the country. However, we can not promote the beauty of nature in such platforms. So, our current focus is on bringing people to Manipur to PARTNER COUNTRY HOSPITALITY PARTNER
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powerful and fascinating enough to draw tourists. How do you see the contribution of tourism industry to the state’s economy? Our contribution is not significant, as it is placed very low in the tourism map of India. However, in the recent years, the state is trying its level best to propel the tourism industry and we are sure it will take off in a big way in the near future. Do you have a state tourism policy? We are working on it and to be specific we are in the final stages of it. The draft policy will be sent to the cabinet and then for discussion in the assembly. We are, however, confident that we will have a state tourism policy very soon. How far do you encourage public private partnership (PPP) in developing Manipur as a tourist destination? When it comes to private investments, hospitality sector is still in its infancy and measures have been taken to attract private players to take it into the next level of growth. We have got certain tourist hotels which we have initiated under PPP model. We have received
experience and explore what its nature has to offer them. Also, we are taking steps to develop better tourism infrastructure, to draw more arrivals. According to you, what are the main tourism attractions of the jewel of India? One can find rare and unique wildlife as well as plants, which are endemic to Manipur. Then, there is a big lake in the central portion of the state, which attracts handsome number of domestic tourists. However, we do know that the need of the hour is better infrastructure and hospitality sector, to provide comfortable stay for the tourists. The state also offers enough avenues for tourists, who seek adventure. We do not have high peaks, as the ones in Arunachal Pradesh or Sikkim, but we have small peaks that are very beautiful, ever green and easy to access. We are all set to develop adventure tourism in a big way and as part of it we are setting up hotels in and around adventure tourism spots. These lodges will be ready by this year and we can boldly say that do visit our destinations and we have certain facilities for the tourists. Then, I would say our very culture is TRAVEL PARTNER
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FACE TO FACE several applications from the private parties and we will take steps as per the rules and guidelines set forth by the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India. I do realise that private parties are interested and they can manage the entire thing better than the government. Since Manipur is part of northeast, what is your take on developing entire northeast as a tourist destination, rather than each state in this belt trying to develop itself as a destination? Entire northeast, popularly referred to as the seven sister states, comes under the North Eastern Council (NEC) and hence it should be looked into as one unit. The tourist won’t say they are going to Meghalaya or Manipur. But they say they are going to or visiting northeast. So, we have developed a master plan through NEC. Tata Consultancy Ltd Mumbai is preparing the project and it is in the final stage. When it comes to implementation of the project, the seven sates will come together with a single objective of creating a tourism circuit. We know that one state cannot survive unless it gets support from the remaining states. It will also enable tourists to cover as many destinations as possible, spread across these states. So, we are exploiting our cordial relations, to further strengthen and improve the tourism facilities across northeast. How practical you think is this mission? That is what in our master plan, which is almost in the final stage. TATA Consultancy has almost prepared the project. It will surely bring us as one unit. The decision was taken after giving much thought and consultation between the inter-state secretaries. We had a forum and in that forum we put our points and ultimately NEC has agreed to it. Now, the seven sister states will turn into a single unit. When it comes to developing tourism infra in the state, are you getting enough (financial) support from the central government? We depend basically on the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, to develop tourism infrastructure, as the state’s budget allocation is too less. Ours is a small state and we cannot think of TRAVEL PARTNER
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is likely to increase the budget. However, we currently depend largely on the assistance from the union ministry. Union tourism minister Subodh Kant Sahay recently asked the states to approach him with a detailed project, to avail funds. How do you see this move? The policy has been there for sometime now, but how to practise it has been the question, as different states come under different commands. NAC has rightly taken up this job and I hope it will realise the policy. Before we conclude, please share with us the major problems confronted by the state’s tourism industry. Most north eastern states, but Sikkim, confront a lot of issues. There are constraints and lack of connectivity. Till Gawathi, it is well connected via railway, road and air. However, beyond Gawathi creating tourism infra, with out the help connectivity is the main problem. Then, from the central government. I must say, there is big fear among the people in terms of law and order situation. This the union ministry is doing a lot but we are not always in a position to utilise the fear factor has prevented many tourists fund given to us, for several reasons. The from visiting the north eastern states. I union ministry of tourism is quite liberal can tell you no tourist has been harassed in northeast, so far. The percentage of and more over, through NEC they give crime is much less. us sufficient financial support. So, the connectivity should be Hasn’t the state government realised the need for more budget allocation, for improved and there should be better infra and a matured hospitality sector, to tourism development? put Manipur at the top of the tourism Now, our honourable chief minister map of India. has realised the need of the hour and he
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HOSPITALITY
Come, indulge in Asian delicacies
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et in the heart of Gurgaon, the cyber city of north India, Marriott’s Courtyard redefines comfort and quality. The hotel is strategically located in Gurgaon, just 30 minutes away from the New Delhi Airport. With its warm, attentive service, exclusive dining options and best-inclass amenities, it is an ideal choice for business and leisure travellers, looking for an international standard hotel accommodation. The location provides easy access to the key tourist attractions of New Delhi and therefore provides ideal base for tourists, cover-
ing the entire ‘golden triangle’ of Agra and Jaipur. The Courtyard by Marriott, Gurgaon offers 198 spacious, contemporary rooms which include 154 fully appointed rooms, 38 executive rooms and 6 exquisite suites, with king size or twin beds along with a fully equipped workstation, ensuring comfortable and memorable stay. For the discerning business travellers, the hotel offers all facilities, including meeting rooms, state-of-the-art audiovisual equipment as well as wireless, high speed internet access and video conferencing facilities.
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For the epicureans, the Courtyard by Marriott Gurgaon offers a variety of dining options. These include MoMo Café that offers all day dining, MoMo2 Go - a bakery and quick bites retail outlet, Red Zen- a specialty pan Asian noodle restaurant and Bar Zen, a chic contemporary bar. Red Zen, its specialty restaurant with a seating capacity of 106, provides a cool and casual environment to enjoy pan Asian delicacies, ranging from fresh noodles, to steaming hot bowls of wontons, accompanied by Asian beers, wines and spirits.
The food reflects both the wet and dry cooking styles popular in Asia and the menu shows culinary influences from diverse regions of Asia, including Thailand, China, Japan, Indonesia and Vietnam. Red Zen also boasts of a 10-seater noodle bar, where patrons can interact with the chefs and create their own customised noodle experience. Designed in a contemporary artistic setting, Bar Zen is a chic modern bar providing exquisite wines, cocktails and exclusive beverages, from across the world. Apart from the vast selection of red, white and spar-
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The team leader
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atthew Cooper, General Man ager, the Courtyard by Marriott, Gurgaon, heads and shoulders the overall responsibility of leading the team, to drive the hotel’s performance. With a career spanning over two decades, Cooper brings with him a deep understanding and vast knowledge of the hospitality industry. He has worked in diverse areas of operation within the industry, including rooms, housekeeping and front office. However, the area that he is most passionate about is food and beverage. His last assignment, prior to leading the Courtyard team in Gurgaon was as Director, F&B, for the Hyderabad Marriott Hotel and Convention Centre.
kling wines, the bar also offers a variety of classic as well as signature cocktails. The food comprises of light bites, including house specialities such as Sushi, Momo sliders and Kalamta olives, etc. MoMo Café sports a contemporary, warm and vibrant look and is a right place for the guests to have breakfast, lunch and dinner, send an email or read a book over a cup of tea. The interiors of the cafe are very warm and welcoming, with an open kitchen and a wood fired
oven, at the heart of the kitchen. MoMo 2 Go is a bakery and a retail outlet that offers guests fresh sandwiches, pastries, tarts, cakes and gateaux, with well-blended coffee and beverages throughout the day. Located next to the lobby on the first floor, the cafe is well situated to cater to the needs of both residential guests as well as guests, who would like to drop in for a quick bite. The hotel’s executive lounge offers an excellent all
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He was the man behind the success of OKRA (24 hour coffee shop) and BIDRI (Indian specialty restaurant). Cooper has been associated with Marriott, for the past fourteen years. An Australian national, he has worked with leading hotels in Australia. He is known for his creativity and flair for styling. He holds a degree in management hospitality, from Brisbane Australia. In India, he lives with his wife and two daughters. “My family enjoys travelling around the country, to see all the amazing contrasts that India has to offer. I enjoy visiting Chandni Chowk and eating out, especially North Indian food,” smiles Cooper.
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day dining option. Guests can enjoy cocktails and canapés and complimentary continental breakfast. In addition, to enable guests to transact their business at ease, the lounge is Wi-Fi enabled. Moreover, it is a place where tea and coffee served throughout the day. It also offers business facilities such as meeting space of 2745 sq ft that can seat up to 150 people. The meeting rooms are equipped with state-of-the-art audiovisual devises as well as wireless, high speed internet
access and video conferencing facilities. Courtyard also provides one with the facilities to rejuvenate one’s body and mind. The leisure facilities at Marriott’s Courtyard include fitness centre with state-ofthe-art equipment as well as treatment rooms. The outdoor swimming pool provides a perfect avenue to unwind and indulge in a relaxing swim, in a pleasant and soothing environment. Guests can also relax with a soothing foot massage, by the pool.
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Experience the Vivanta wave, at Taj - Fisherman's Cove
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aj - Fisherman's Cove, Chennai, built on the ramparts of an old Dutch fort, will sport a new look as, henceforth, it will be riding on the stylishly spirited Vivanta brand of hospitality. As such, the hotel that is one with the Bay of Bengal will be known as the Vivanta by Taj Fisherman's Cove, Chennai. Vivanta attracts an eclectic mix of global travellers seeking most unique and luxurious experiences. The soulful and tranquil ambience of this beach resort combines beautifully with a plethora of dining options at the hotel, giving you a taste of a
different world, at water's edge. Renamed to enhance the leisure experience as redefined by the brand Vivanta by Taj, its rooms and suites - Superior Charm, Deluxe Delight, Premium Indulgence and Premium Temptation - are designed to offer relaxation and rejuvenation. Vivanta houses the most comfortable and stylish European Premium Indulgence cottages and Premium Temptation villas that offer breathtaking views of the sea. Set amidst lush manicured landscaping and isolated from the bustling city
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cacophony, the only sounds you hear in these cottages is the buzz of the sea breeze. As a Vivanta hotel, there is now a distinct focus on technology, to cater to the needs of the new-age cosmopolitan urban traveller, who is at work during the day and a lover of leisure, at night. The newly launched Deluxe Delight Garden View and Deluxe Delight Sea View rooms in the new wing of the hotel offer a magnificent view of the beautifully landscaped garden and the sea. Both the garden facing and sea facing rooms come with a sit-out, deck area and balcony. The
Scandinavian dĂŠcor with oak wood flooring is enriched with Indian accents, seen in the upholstery, artwork and bed linen. The rooms provide a fully-wired business environment hand in hand with modern leisure comforts space crafted to the last detail. With dual access wardrobe, Wi-Fi as well as wired internet, this new wing of the hotel is equipped for the global business traveller. The culinary experiences at the Vivanta by Taj Fisherman's Cove are heightened by scenic views, intuitive yet unobtrusive service. Dining by the sea, at
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HOSPITALITY the seafood specialty restaurant Bay View is an experience in itself. Here, the orchestrated harmony of the sea breeze juxtaposed with the crashing waves on the coastline lends a perfect backdrop, to a memorable meal. Vivanta by Taj Fisherman's Cove also houses an authentic Mediterranean restaurant, Upper Deck, where every meal is specially handcrafted and served with passion. The candle-lit alfresco setting, with the sea in the backdrop is extremely charming view to the eyes and the mind. The hotel also has two bars. Its Anchor Bar serves a variety of cocktails amidst a charming English ambience, while the sunken Sunburst Bar, at the poolside, is a great place to spend a lazy afternoon, lounging in the pool. The unique dining experiences are extended to private dining on the beach, villa dining and more, where meals are customised for the occasion. Vivanta by Taj Fisherman's Cove offers an isolated and private dining for couples, at the Watch Tower, on the white sands of the Bay of Bengal. The truly romantic experience that Vivanta by Taj - Fisherman's Cove offers begins the moment, the guest enters the hotel. A charming cart drives you to the venue through the lush green landscaping and hotel cottages. A personal butler receives the guests in the quintessential Fisherman's Cove tradition, with a welcome drink and shell garlands and helps you get comfortable in the tranquil setting of the machan, over looking the gorgeous waters.
You can enjoy a serene dinner under the stars, with free-flowing aphrodisiacs and a handcrafted menu. What's more, the hotel also organises special acoustic singers, to serenade your partner in the star-studded night. The experience at Vivanta by Taj - Fisherman's Cove is enriched by a local touch through Turtle Walks on the beach and catamaran rides into the deep blue sea. Adding to the coastal flavour, the hotel presents Seaside Sojourn, where its chef will
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guide you through a threecourse meal, a meal with a twist! This unique experience begins with a visit to the local market, where the chef guides you through the fresh catches of the day. From prawn, squid, lobsters and different kinds of fish, take part in selecting the best seafood, for your meal to follow. Fresh catch in tow, return to an exclusive live counter and put on a chef's hat and an apron that has been designed especially for you. Prepare
your own marinade or choose from the hotel's specialty options and indulge in cooking your meal, with the help and expert advice from the chef. Enjoy a three-course meal that includes a soup, starter, your fresh catch of the day and a dessert of your choice, with any beverage from the hotel's eclectic list of spirits. Vivanta by Taj Fisherman's Cove is an ideal place for a lazy weekend getaway, or a business get together by the sea.
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FACE TO FACE
“We’ll ensure a fair deal for travellers” In a country like India, tourism industry can’t flourish without the support of travel agents, as both domestic and foreign travellers depend more on them for airline services, including visa and documentation. To get a clear picture of the role of travel agents and the problems they face in the industry, Asian Traveller interviewed Biji Eapen, President, IATA Agents Association of India (IAAI). He was candid and presented things as a matter of fact. Edited Excerpts: What exactly is the role IAAI plays in the Indian tourism industry? IATA Agents Association of India (IAAI) is essentially into the areas of air ticketing and travel and tourism. Though ours is an association of IATA accredited travel agents, almost all our members are engaged in domestic and international tourism. A travel agent accredited by IATA handles air tickets as well as tourism and holiday packages. IATA accreditation is in essence a license to stock air tickets of all IATA member airlines and therefore it is a crowning title for trust and reliability. How big an association is yours? We have 891 accredited travel agents spread across the country, with nine elected state committees and six adhoc committees. Let me draw your attention to the controversial zero per cent commission. What impact it had on the industry and how far has it affected your members? Zero commission has not only affected travel agents, but it also had a negative
impact on the travelling public. The fact is that the travelling public have not yet considered this factor properly. The zero airlines are funding and engineering consolidation and cartelization in India and they are favouring certain agents in ticketing. As a result, several ordinary agents are at the verge of closure. In the case of international travel, more than 90 per cent of the travelling public depend on travel agents. In a country like India, where passengers depend more on travel agents for airline services, including visa and documentation, charging transaction fee for services is illegal. Indian Aircraft Act of 1934 and Aircraft Rules 1937 (sub rule 54a) defines ‘commission’ as an integral part of ‘fare’, which forms the ‘tariff’. Directorate general of civil aviation (DGCA) order on March 5, 2010 is a statutory order, protecting statutory rights of travel agents, mandating commission. When our own government machinery DGCA failed to execute, enforce and implement the national law,
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IAAI was forced to continue and strengthen its legal fight. Our legal battle may take a couple of months time, but we are confident that the commission will be reinstated, as a statutory right and positively ensure that the travelling public will be exempted, from such illegal burdens. If you don’t mind, take us through the main problems the domestic tour operators face? First of all, there is an urgent need to build a healthy tourism culture, so as to accommodate foreign tourists. When it comes to communicating effectively with the visiting tourists, people associated with the tourism field lack training and skills. It has created problems of its own. Hence, I feel that steps should be taken to improve the communicating skills of the people connected with the tourism industry, on an urgent basis. Then, poor infrastructure, be it pathetic condition of roads, connectivity, lack of adequate hotel facilities, etc., is also adding to our troubles. Don’t you think that it’s high
time that everyone realised the value of domestic traveller? What, according to you, should be done to encourage domestic travel? Surely! Initially, there is a need to create awareness on the importance of domestic tourism among all the stakeholders. Also, measures should simultaneously be taken to promote various tourist destinations in the country. As part of promoting destinations, it is advisable to bring out brochures, pamphlets and other such materials, to publicise various features/facilities available at a particular tourist spot. And the authorities should see to it that the infrastructure projects are taken up in a planned manner to take the tourism industry, to the next level of growth. If there is enough tourism infrastructure, naturally, the flow of domestic tourists will see a quantum jump. Do you have in mind a strategic plan to tap the Indian outbound market, which may decide against travelling abroad, as a result of the economic meltdown? In this case, a well planned
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FACE TO FACE strategy can be worked out, to project and to spread awareness on various tourist destinations in different states, in the country. Such a measure is sure to go a long way in tapping the Indian outbound market. Do you think that the current US economic scenario will have any effect on the growth of Indian tourism? Definitely! It can have adverse implications on the rate of foreign tourist arrivals to the country. However, the negative impact can be converted into a positive development, if the country works to attract more domestic travellers, to explore the destinations within the country. When it comes to domestic tourism, there is a lot of potential that remains untapped. It is important to give enough publicity to domestic tourist spots, if one
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wants to lure more domestic travellers to visit such places of interest. As of now, lack of publicity is a major impediment to promoting domestic tourism. It is often said that domestic travellers get a step motherly treatment. What is your take on it? This situation has arisen out of the lack of a level playing field. How do you see travel and tourism industry as a contributor to the country’s economic growth? With a lot of people working for the industry, generating incomes for themselves and others, and providing a significant tax base, it appears that the travel and tourism industry is an important source of employment and a viable revenue stream for governments.
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Cit y of innovative tourism... Europe, North America, etc. As far as the medical tourism country has become popular, is concerned, the market is primarily the Middle East, the but awareness on the Gulf countries, the SAARC remaining three southern countries, some of the African states – Karnataka, Tamil countries etc. When it comes Nadu and Andhra Pradesh – to leisure travel, Europe is a among travellers is very big market for us. limited. The ‘awareness Global Travel Mart is barrier’ is the major contentihappening in Hyderabad, ous issue that needs to be addressed soon. However, as next year. What’s your take? It comes as no surprise to we are emerging as the conventional capital of the country, us, because no other Indian slowly we are getting out this city can match the problem and we are hoping to conventional infrastructure in Hyderabad. In October next become more popular in the year, we are going to host the international market. biggest convention in the Which are your source history of India - the markets? The conventional business international convention on bio diversity. So, when we can happens from all across the handle such events, Global world and we get large Tourism Mart is a small thing number of conventions and for us. convention visitors from Page 38
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MACAU
An exclusive destination for fireworks carnival
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aven’t yet heard about Macau Inter national Fireworks Display Contest and the Fireworks Carnival held along with it? If not, it will be the one thing that you want to experience first-hand. For those present at the previous years’ contest, it will be something they want to revisit. Providing an opportunity for both, the curtains for this years’ Macau International Fireworks Display Contest will go up on September 10, 2011, at the sea area, in front of the Macau Tower. The fireworks contest, which has entered into its 23rd edition, is not a one-day event. The contest will be held on September 10, 12, 17, 24 and October 1, 2011. The event is being organised by the Macau Government Tourism Office (MGTO). The main attraction of the contest will be the Fireworks Carnival, presented jointly by the MGTO and the General Union of Neighbours Association of Macau, to add more fun and colours to the fireworks display nights. Fireworks Carnival will offer an array of live entertainment, cultural activities and culinary delights, to the visitors. This year, ten teams are expected to participate in the contest. João Manuel Costa Antunes, director of MGTO, is confident about at least nine out ten teams taking part in the fireworks display contest in Macau, in 2011. “A couple of these teams have own
prizes earlier and for instance the team from Japan is a fourtime champion. I am sure that the ten breathtaking fireworks displays will thrill the spectators’ senses of sight and sound, creating wonderful memories for citizens and visitors alike,” he smiles. Usually, world-renowned pyrotechnic companies participate in the Macau International Fireworks Display Contest. And, things
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are not different this year. The fireworks carnival will feature teams from the Canada, Korea, Japan, United Kingdom, Austria, Chinese Taiwan, the Philippines, Portugal, France and China. Among these, the team from Canada, Sirius Pyrotechnics, is making its Macau debut, while the teams from Japan, China, the Philippines and Korea are winners of top four prizes last year. Sirius
Pyrotechnics, a famous fireworks company that specialises in large scale pyrotechnic production, has performed in the opening and closing ceremonies of the Winter Olympics 2010 in Canada. “Veterans from Japan, China, the Philippines and Korea will revisit Macau, to vie for the trophy again. Tamaya Kitahara Fireworks Co. Ltd. from Japan, who
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MACAU possesses unique technique to produce firework shells, is a four-time champion and is sure to win the hearts and the applause of the spectators again,” says the event organisers. It, however, doesn’t mean that other teams are pushovers, they add. Brezac Artifices from France has won the laurel twice in its three attempts, while the team from Chinese Taiwan has claimed the title once in its five attempts. Among the five nights of fireworks display contest, Mid-Autumn Festival falls on September 12 and October 1 is China’s National Day. Hence, teams from France and China will deploy their skills on Mid-Autumn Festival and China’s National Day, respectively, to add extra sparkle to the celebrations. The Macau Government
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Tourism Office has requested to the participating teams to complement their display with music, to enthral the audience with a light and sound extravaganza. To make the entire event more enjoyable, the organisers are planning to install sound systems at the waterfront of the Macau Tower outdoor plaza, Macau Tower street seaside and at the square in front of Kun Iam statue on Ave. Dr Sun Yat Sen. “Such a measure will surely enable the public to enjoy spectacular firework displays synchronised with music. Besides, steps have also been initiated to allow spectators to listen to live music of the fireworks displays through Radio Macau’s live broadcast at FM100.7,” add the event organisers. As its routine, the event
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will also feature SMS games, drawing and painting competitions and lucky draws, to make the event more attractive. MGTO will, as usual, join hands with Companhia de Telecomunicações de Macau S A R L (CTM), to launch SMS Game, to promote citizen participation in the event. In
order to capture the spectacular moments of the fireworks display contest, the organisers will also hold 23rd Macau International Fireworks Display Contest Photo Competition and Drawing Competition. The winners of the two competitions will be entitled to premiums and trophies.
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Know more about tea, in Macau
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re you the one who loves to drink tea several times a day? Does every sip of tea make you think that the inventor of tea must have been a mastermind? If your answer to these questions is a yes, then you ought to visit Macau and its Tea Culture House. Being a melting pot of Chinese and western tea cultures, Macau is a place where you can see rich variations of tea. Now, it has got The Macau Tea Culture House, an imposing edifice featuring southern European elements and a Chinese tiled roof, to promote the study of tea cultures, worldwide. This museum is also a platform to hold long and short-term exhibitions, to introduce the tea cultures of Macau, China and the West. This newly constructed tea culture house complements the Portuguese-style buildings in the area as well as the surrounding Suzhou-inspired landscape of Lou Lim Ieoc Garden. The house has three
floors, with the museum on the ground floor. It’s a very serene but an interesting place. Though the museum is small, the information that can be gathered and the cultural values inside it are very valuable. If you love tea, come and explore a museum dedicated to it. Visiting the tea house can be a learning experience. It is well known that tea can be refreshing. Recent researches show that the composition of the tea has proven nutritious and medicinal effects. It can prevent diseases and enhance the immunity system. The Macau Tea House arranges experts to explain the effectiveness of tea nutrients from the scientific point of view, to the audience. Different in taste and aroma, tea refreshes your taste buds to your soul in an unspeakable way. As far as the aroma is concerned, some are refreshing, while others diffuse the fragrance of flowers, fruits or agalloch. When it comes to taste, some
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taste thin or mellow, others are mildly sweet or leave a sweet aftertaste. Hence, a basic understanding of the features of tea leaves is required for tea appreciation. So, if you wonder how to identify a cup of good tea or how to appreciate it, pay a visit to the Macao Tea Culture House. The house also serves different types of tea each month and acquaints participants with the distinct tastes of Chinese tea, with an aim to promote the practice of tea drinking. The Macao Tea Culture House has tea specialists to define the four major aspects of tea appreciation – colour, aroma, taste and appearance. It is said, customs change within a hundred miles. So,
why not travel to Macau and experience a whole society, defining a different tea culture. It is a golden opportunity to enjoy your tea, while learning the difference between tea-tasting and teadrinking. A Special Administrative Region of China, Macau is popularly known as an entertainment centre. Its modern buildings rub shoulders with restored colonial edifices, Portuguese churches, Chinese gardens and temples. Spread across 29.7 Sq Km, this territory houses multi-billion dollar resorts and luxury hotels. Apart from the nightlife and the glittering shows, Macau offers young adventurers an adrenaline rush at the Macau Tower.
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Here is a man, who dreamed big. Dreams weren’t just dreams for him. They were, in fact, a driving force for him to venture into the impossible and make it possible. The man is none other than Captain C P Krishnan Nair, the Living Legend in the Indian Hospitality Sector. Know him more
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IN FOCUS
Journey of a legend
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ourism is all about destinations. And, destinations can’t be devoid of hospitality sector. If there is a man in the tourism industry/hospitality sector, who is more popular than destinations/hotels, it can only be Captain C P Krishnan Nair, Chairman of the Leela Group. With his efforts and a couple of world-class luxury hotels in his kitty, he has ensured that tourism industry in India would not lag behind other emerging destinations, due to the lack of top-notch tourism/hospitality infrastructure in the country. Captain Nair has bagged the Prime Minister’s National Tourism Award for six
consecutive years and it speaks volumes for his contribution to propel the tourism industry, in the country. Besides, he was the first ever Indian, who made it into the World Tourism Organisation Executive Council’s ‘World Committee on Tourism Ethics’. He made the nation proud and it was a moment of personal success for him. Recognising his contribution to the industry, Indian government has conferred him the prestigious Padma Bhushan Award, in 2010. However, it would not be right to measure his calibre or in that matter his contribution to the country, taking the
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achievements into consideration. Because, success, it is said, is not measured by achievements alone, but by the distance travelled. Captain Nair has travelled the distance and today, titles sit easy on him. If today Captain Nair is a known environmentalist, industrialist and an hotelier, it’s the result of the journey taken by him, years ago. Captain knows that every journey taken was fired by a dream. To dream the impossible and make it possible has been a life mission, be it as an environmentalist, industrialist or an hotelier. Born in Cannanore, Kerala,
India, in 1923, Captain Nair had a humble beginning, but fired by his dreams, he rose to become a prominent player in the tourism, handloom, apparel and IT industry. Today, his business empire that comprises Leela Lace and Leelaventure employs more than 15,000 people and has an annual turnover of around Rs 500 crore. Before embarking on building his business empire, Captain Nair served the nation as a freedom fighter and as an army officer. His participation in the freedom movement was a turning point in his life. As he spent his days as a freedom fighter, it struck to him that economic
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IN FOCUS prosperity was critical to lift India out of abject poverty. It was thus he started his tryst with the development of the handloom industry. After making his entry in the handloom industry, Captain Nair set about rebuilding the industry. He was the main force behind setting up The All India Handloom Board in 1955 and years later, he was instrumental in instituting The Apparel Export Promotion Council. Leela Lace pioneered the export of
prime urban locations like Bangalore, Gurgaon, Mumbai, New Delhi, Goa, Kovalam and Udaipur. It also has properties under development in Chennai, Agra, Jaipur and Ashtamudi in Kerala. So far, every hotel of the group has been an achiever and done the Captain proud. For instance, the Leela Kempinski, Mumbai has won the National and Regional Tourism Awards for six consecutive years. Besides, the group has won the prestigious TravTalk World Travel
“
I would define Captain Nair as an icon, who has inspired a generation of hoteliers and entrepreneurs and personifies the adage ‘age is only a number’. He is known for his magnanimity
and he always thinks in terms of the benefit to the industry, rather than building an individual brand. A true patriot, his love for the nation has translated into the very ‘Indian’ identity of brand Leela. Foresight, vision and an astute ability to read the future has been his hallmark, in all his ventures. His humbleness is reflected in his day-to-day functioning and has helped him change the dynamics of the industry. A combination of energy, eye for detail and a sharp memory have defined Captain Nair through the decades. He reminds one of Jim Corbett’s saying, ‘fortune favours the brave’
Biswajit Chakraborty General Manager, The Leela Mumbai
Award by the International Hotel & Restaurant Association and the Life Time Achievement Award from FHRAI and NAFEN. He has also received the PATA Award of Merit, in handlooms to the USA as well Market Global Award in 2010, recognition of his outstanding service and leadership, to the as other countries. In 2000 and Indra Award of Excellence industry. and International Five Star 2001 Leela Lace won the Special amongst these Diamond Award in 2005. prestigious Golden Globe awards is the Padma As an individual, Captain Award for highest exports in Bhushan Award, the Nair has bagged numerous clothing. awards. There isn’t a year that Global 500 Laureate It, however, took him passes by without honouring Roll of Honour by the several more years to foray United Nations into the hospitality sector. But this living legend, for his Environment contributions to the tourism it can well be said that Programme in 1999, industry and hospitality hoteliering was his destiny the Maharana Mewar call! It was a visit to Germany sector. The awards he has received so far include Padma Foundation National that led him to venture into Award for Bhushan Award, Baharat this booming sector. “As a ‘outstanding practical Ratna Rajiv Gandhi member of the first trade achievements in the delegate, I visited Germany in Environment Award, The Green Hotelier of the Decade protection and 1957. The hotels I saw and improvement of the stayed in were ‘world-class’. I Award, Hotelier of the environment’ in 2002 wanted such type of hotels in Century Award, Y B Chavan and the prestigious V Memorial Awards for India,” recalls, Captain Nair. P Menon Award from Excellence in Hospitality, the Then, he did see to it that the the President of India. Pride of India Gold Award, dream came true. Today, the “More than these awards the Prime Minister’s National Leela Palaces, Hotels and and accolades, what I value is Resorts manages seven award Tourism Award (for six the recognition and years), The Green Hotelier winning hotels in India, in TRAVEL PARTNER
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acknowledgement as the industry’s exemplary holder of ethical standards,” smiles a modest Captain Nair, who is often acknowledged as the doyen of the hospitality sector. Ask him what motivates him. One is sure to hear: ‘‘The obsessive compulsion to excel and offer my country the best of what I
was fortunate to experience around the world is what drives me endlessly.” PARTNER COUNTRY
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IN FOCUS
The Leela business empire
F
ounded in 1957 by Captain
‘Bleeding Madras’ fabric and other
the USA. Today, Leela Lace has
received many rewards for being
C P Krishnan Nair, the Rs
handlooms such as cheese cloth
several factories with state-of-the-
the best five star deluxe hotels in
450 crore Leela Group is
and gauze fabric, to the fashion
art equipment. It is Leela Lace
India, while The Leela, Goa has
engaged in the business of ready-
capitals of the west, specifically
Ltd., the parent company, which is
been voted the best luxury beach
made garments and luxury hotels
the USA. Their runaway success
and resorts. It was captain Nair’s
was reflected in the magic words
vision that helped the growth of
‘guaranteed to bleed’, which
his ventures. He believed in
became the key to the popularity
India’s ability to compete with the
of India’s textile export.
best in the world. Never did he
The company launched its
consider India’s ability inferior to
ready-made garments unit in the
that of the best in the world. This
early 70’s and it has become
belief, forged to a large extent
India’s premier export house,
during his early years as a
today. By 80’s, Leela Lace
freedom fighter in India’s fight for
succeeded in attracting the
Independence, finds expression in
veritable who’s who of the
each of the group’s endeavours.
American fashion industry - Gap,
Captain Nair entered into the
Liz Claiborne, Polo Jeans, Tommy
business world in 1957 by setting
Hilfiger, JC Penney, Macy’s and
up a small industrial unit in
Van Heusen, Walmart, etc., as its
suburban Mumbai, after
clients. After consolidating its
completing his stint in the army.
position, the group shifted its
Inspired by the handloom weaving
focus to the American woven
industry in Cannanore, Kerala, he
sportswear market in the early
set up Leela Scottish Lace Ltd.,
80s, with a continuous emphasis
India’s first and only lace
on fast turnaround and big
manufacturing plant.
volumes. Rapid growth has been the result and it gradually
the promoter of Hotel
resort in India. Every Leela Hotel
from a small beginning to the first
positioned Leela Lace as the
Leelaventure Ltd. The Leela
is a welcoming oasis. Captain
company to introduce the
largest Indian garment exporter to
Palaces, Hotels and Resorts has
Nair’s concern for the
cemented its global leadership
environment extends beyond the
Captain Nair is a visionary and an inspiring leader who, at
position in the luxury hospitality
confines of The Leela properties.
nearly 90 years, still has
industry, by offering hotels in
He is responsible for converting
the passion for life and the
premier locations, elegant
acres and acres of land into
ability to enjoy even small
facilities and personalised service
verdant havens. He personally
details that make the overall
to the world’s most discerning
supervises the landscaping and
experience. His joy of the small
travellers. Its award winning
plantation of exotic and rare
things is an inspiration for us to
luxury hotels comprises The Leela
plants and like a true pioneer he
forge forward and ensure that
Kempinski (Mumbai), The Leela
deploys a major part of his
the small minute details are
Palace Kempinski (Bangalore),
resources for this purpose. If
accounted for and are the pillars
The Leela, Goa and The Leela
Leela has achieved excellence, it
of our undertaking. He is a man
Kempinski, Kovalam Beach. The
has been the result of a three
of stories and memories that go
group has successfully pioneered
pronged business strategy.
back decades and allow one to
The Club or hotel within a hotel
“Fundamental to our business is
revel in a story that is one of
concept, at its resorts in Goa and
the all pervasive Indian tradition of
inspiration and dedication to excellence. The foundation of
in Kovalam, where it offers India’s
hospitality. Secondly, we honour
everything the company stands for today is a result of his hands-on
only cliff-top resort.
the cultural heritage of India.
In no time, Leela Lace grew
“
involvement in the daily activities in all his hotels and the ability to ensure that guests are provided with excellent services
Tamir Kobrin General Manager, The Leela Palace New Delhi
PARTNER COUNTRY HOSPITALITY PARTNER
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Leela Hotels, which have won
Lastly, we operate on the basis of
considerable international
world class technology, backed
acclaim, are among the finest
up fully by the commitment of my
hotels in India. The Leela
team,” describes Captain Nair,
Bangalore and Mumbai have
with a smile on his face.
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IN FOCUS
Awards and Accolades The Padma Bhushan Award, 2010, from the
Lifetime Achievement Award from Kerala
government of India
Chamber of Commerce
Baharat Ratna Rajiv Gandhi Environment
The National Horticulture Award for Best
Award, 2010
Ornamental Park Garden (to the Leela Palace
Hotelier of the Century, 2010, from
Kempinski Bangalore)
International Hotel and Restaurant Association
The Bombay Chamber Civic Award for
The Green Hotelier of the Decade Award,
environment excellence (to the Leela Palaces
2010, from Gulf Connoisseur
and Resorts)
The Giant International Award for Excellence
PATA Award of Merit, 2005
in Business and Industry
Hewitt and CNBC Award (to the Leela Group)
Recognition from AAHS for his contribution to
CNN Ultimate Service Award 2003 & 2004 (to
environment beautification and corporate
the Leela Palace, Bangalore)
social responsibility
Three PATA GOLD Awards in 2002 (Corporate
Indira Award of Excellence
Environmental Programme – The Leela,
Y B Chavan Memorial Awards for Excellence in
Mumbai; The best Travel Advertising – The
Hospitality
Leela Palace, Bangalore and The best National
SATTE Life Time Achievement Award 2007
Marketing Programme, The Leela Palace, Goa)
National Tourism Award (to the Leela Palace
Maharana Udai Singh Award, 2002
Kempinski Bangalore, for the best eco-friendly
V P Menon Award, 2002
hotel)
World Travel Awards for year 2000, 2001, 2002
Lifetime Achievement Award from the
and 2005
American Academy of Hospitality Sciences
The Leela, Goa voted as the best resort in
International Five Star Diamond Award, 2005
Asia Pacific.
(to the Leela Group)
Winner of National and Regional Tourism
Imperial Mark for the Leela, Goa 2004 (World’s
Awards from 1994 to 2000 (The Leela,
oldest and most prestigious award for
Mumbai)
unmatched excellence in the field of
Global 500 Laureate Roll of Honour by United
hospitality)
Nations Environment Programme
Lifetime Achievement Award from CMAI (in
Corporate Environmental Achievement Award
recognition of Captain’s contribution to the
Green Hotelier Award from International Hotel
Apparel industry)
and Restaurant Association, Paris. TRAVEL PARTNER
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IN FOCUS
‘Atithi Devo Bhava’
T
he Upanishads or the
social, monetary or moral.
they cherish their guests. Leela is
and security of the guests, co-
summation of the Vedas
‘Tritiya Dharma’: The constant
not an organisation of employees,
workers as well as corporate
describe various ‘dharmas’
endeavour shall be to understand,
who see themselves as a
assets and environment.
which means something
anticipate and satisfy the needs of
company of stars, where every
‘Ashthami Dharma’: Leela believes
established or firm that forms the
the guests, with warmth and
employee is rewarded on an
in the dharma of fairness. While
basis for philosophies, beliefs and
attention to detail. This is apart
individual basis, in terms of stellar
encountering challenges, they
practices.
from maintaining excellence,
achievements as well as personal
shall never forsake the
aesthetics, style and the
growth.
establishment of a healthy code of
India, a doctrine of duties and
utmost regard for comfort and
‘Saptami Dharma’: In all aspects
conduct, or adopt practices
simple virtues, which are known
privacy.
of business, Leela shall diligently
influenced by personal
as ‘ashta dharma’ is followed by
‘Chaturtha Dharma’: Trust and
safeguard the wellbeing, safety
preferences or prejudices.
each individual employee. It is
team spirit will be the foundation
derived from the deep rooted
stones upon which the company’s
Indian tradition of hospitality
future and success will be raised.
‘Atithi Devo Bhava’ (Guest is
The taller the group grows, the
God).
more will be the attempt to
‘Prathama Dharma’: No matter
cultivate the virtues deeper.
repositioned its market presence, as a
what role each individual performs
‘Panchami Dharma’: The duties
successful chain of hotels, by meeting
as the member of the team, the
shall be performed with conviction
changing needs of international
guests shall be placed first and
and pride, while seeking
business travellers. Constant
foremost, the organisation second
constructive feedback and
upgradation of the existing operating
and the self last, while performing
dissent, in order to enhance the
hotels and commissioning of new hotels
duties to the finest standards.
standards. They shall adhere to
are a conscious effort towards the same.
‘Dvitiya Dharma’: Everything shall
industry standards of quality and
The Leela Kempinski Mumbai, The Leela
be done laced with courtesy and
certification and constantly strive
Goa, The Leela Palace, Bangalore and
consideration for others and the
to outperform themselves.
The Leela Kovalam are still market
highest standards, whether
‘Sashti Dharma’: The employees
leaders, in terms of operational excellence.
qualitative, ethical, intellectual,
respect each other as much as
Across Leela properties in
Repositioning the Leela Group
I
n the emerging economic scenario, the Leela Palaces and Resorts has
Captain Nair with prominent personalities
108
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The Leela Palace, New Delhi
Finest in India
W
ith 260 rooms in the
enjoy, at Leela Palace, New Delhi.
exclusive diplomatic enclave, the Leela
The hotel offers a wide verity of options in accommodation. Its
Palace, New Delhi is considered
Maharaja suite is known for
to be among the finest in India.
beautifully carved brocades in the
The hotel is in close proximity to
bedroom, exquisite artwork and
the capital city’s tourist attractions
dining area. This six bay suite
such as the Presidential Palace,
comes with state-of-the-art
the Prime Minister’s office and the
facilities and amenities such as a
central business district.
complimentary chauffeured Rolls-
Spanning more than 550 sq ft,
Royce, 24 hour butler service, spa
rooms at the Leela Palace are the
rooms, jacuzzi, walk-in wardrobes,
largest in offering, in Delhi. Each
private gymnasium and
room is furnished in an opulent,
unparalleled service, as per guest
yet contemporary style. Superior
request. Understanding the
luxury accommodations include
guests’ need for privacy and
Jacuzzi that overlooks the city.
restaurant. Named after its shape,
suites with private infinity edge
enhanced security, the suite is
The oversized windows offer a
the restaurant, housed in a
pools. Splendid décor, perfect
equipped with bullet-proof glass
picturesque view of the
striking modern glass-house,
service and the state-of-the-art
and a direct private elevator.
surrounding lush landscaped
overlooks the hotels expansive
gardens. The Grande Suite comes
lawns and lush gardens. The
fully staffed and ready as per the
Qube seats 144 guests
guests’ personal requests.
comfortably and offers an à la
amenities are a few of the
Then, there is Royal suite with
conveniences that its guests can
pool that measures 1520 sq ft and manifests a luxurious and splendid aura. It is
Hotel’s luxury suite overlooks the manicured gardens and come
It has an open kitchen that allows
famous suites in the
in sizes of 970 sq ft. One can also
its chefs to interact with the
hotel. Apart from the
opt for accommodation in its
diners.
modern in–room
junior suite and royal premier
Le Cirque, New Delhi’s most
comforts, it has an
room. The Leela Palace, New
sought after restaurant, features
ornate floor to ceiling
Delhi also has a hotel within a
an avant garde bar lounge that
door that opens to an
hotel in its Royal Club. The Royal
serves premium spirits to set the
‘open to sky’ plunge
Club epitomizes palatial luxury,
tone. The restaurant also offers an
pool with a Jacuzzi.
within five star hotels in New
impressive wine list, with over 80
Delhi.
labels of Italian wines and 100
Next in the list is Grande suite with pools.
The Leela Palace, New Delhi
labels of French wines. Other
Measuring 1,090 sq ft, it
also offers a lot of dining options.
dining options at the Leela Palace,
is designed in a grand
Its four exclusive restaurants and
New Delhi include Jamavar, the
Indian theme with
bar offer cuisine and service that
Library, Megu and the Lobby
vaulted ceilings, to
will surpass any guests’
Lounge.
portray its warmth and
expectations. One can dine
The Leela Palace, New Delhi is
opulence. It has a
casually all day at the glass
also a perfect location for holding
private plunge pool and
restaurant The Qube, or formally
meetings and events. Spread over
at the royal kitchens at Jamavar. If
10,400 sq ft, the meeting and
reading or enjoying a drink is
event rooms at The Leela Palace
what you crave, there is not better
New Delhi provide the perfect
venue than The Library. Above all,
back-drop for one’s esteemed
the hotel houses in its 10th floor Le
needs. Lavish and intimate, the
Cirque, Asia’s first international
event rooms can host both
French–Italian gourmet restaurant
professional and family events.
in Delhi.
The banquet halls overlook onto
Located on the lobby level, The Qube is an all-day dining TRAVEL PARTNER
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carte or buffet dining experience.
the one of the most
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IN FOCUS
The Leela Kempinski Gurgaon Hotel and Residences
The Crown on the capital city
T
he hotel, situated 16 Kms from the domestic airport, 22 Kms from the international airport, is well connected by National Highway 8. In addition to the 90 residences, the Leela Gurgaon Hotel boasts 322 internationally inspired, luxuriously appointed, spacious and very contemporary guest rooms and suites, starting from 45 square meters. The hotel rooms, residences, restaurants, bars, convention, meeting and public areas have been designed to the most exacting international standards, by world renowned interior designers Hirsch Bedner and
Associates. The Royal Club at The Leela Kempinski, Gurgaon is located on the fifth and sixth floors. It comprises 90 rooms and the opulent Presidential suite
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offers premium accommodation facilities with extended benefits and services. Dining options at the Leela Kempinski Gurgaon Hotel include Spectra, Diya, Zanotta, Rubicon bar and In-room dining. Spectra, designed by the Japanese design house Spin, is located on the lobby level. It’s an all day dining, multi-cuisine restaurant and features chefs from Singapore, Thailand, Japan and Austria. Spectra serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. Located just off the lobby, Diya is the place to indulge in north Indian delicacies, as the live music wafts through the air. To get the
taste of Italian food, be at Zanotta, which offers spectacular views and genuinely authentic Italian ingredients and flavours. It has an open display kitchen and two private dining rooms, surrounded by a remarkably well presented see-through wine cellar. Its Rubicon bar, which overlooks the bustle of the city’s highway through its floor-to-ceiling window, is one of the best places in the capital, to enjoy a drink. For a romantic meal in bed, the Leela Kempinski Gurgaon offers the facility of in-room dining. The Leela Kempinski Gurgaon is one of the most celebrated business hotels in Gurgaon and it is ideal for meetings, conferences, weddings, banquets, theme parties and special events. It has a total of 27000 sq ft of convention space.
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The Leela Palace, Udaipur
Rajasthan’s Royal Palace
W
ith its breathtaking view of the Aravali Mountains, the Leela Palace, Udaipur stands majestically on the banks of Lake Pichola. The hotel has 72 rooms and eight suites. Its heritage and lake view rooms are finely appointed with artefacts and furnishings, representing the handicrafts of Rajasthan. Offerings at this grand palace include a pool, a luxurious ESPA tented spa and a gym fitted with the finest of equipment and personal trainers. As one of the most popular Udaipur hotels, The Leela Palace Udaipur is majestic in her appearance and is the quintessence of luxury. It offers accommodations in Lake View Room, Heritage View Room, Luxury suite, Duplex suite, the Maharaja suite and the Royal suite. While Heritage View Rooms offer an unparalleled view of the historic City Palace, Jag
Niwas Palace and Jagmandir, Lake View Rooms offer a wide panoramic view of the surrounding hills and the Lake Pichola, with either a view of the sunrise or sunset. Its Luxury suites are tastefully decorated and luxurious in every minute detail. It offers a home away from home ambiance. These spacious two bay suites offer finely appointed living rooms replete with a work desk that leads on to an elegantly done up bedroom. The bath area comes with a walk in shower stall, bathtub with a view of the Lake Pichola, ‘his n hers’ vanity counters and a separate water closet. The Duplex suites at the Leela Palace, Udaipur is opulent and offers perfect pampering. As the name suggests, it is spread over two levels, with a living room leading to an open air plunge pool and jacuzzi. The master bedroom offers a stunning
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view of the City Palace and other heritage buildings. Its bath area comes with a walk in shower stall, bathtub with a view of the Lake Pichola, ‘his n hers’ vanity counters and a separate water closet. The suite also has its own guest toilet. The hotel’s Maharaja suite houses a living room, a study, a dining area, a master bedroom, with separate walk in wardrobe, king size bath tub with jacuzzi, separate shower stall and water closet. This unique suite also has its own massage parlour, spacious plunge pool and sprawling courtyards, for the discreet comfort of its distinguished guests. It also offers an interconnecting room, for accompanying guests. Located on the third floor of the Leela Place, Udaipur, the Royal suite offers a breathtaking view of the surrounding hills and the majestic Lake Pichola. As the
name suggests, this suite is fit for a king! The Leela Palace, Udaipur also offers a variety of delectable dining options. Dining Room, its all day dining restaurant, is the ‘Kohinoor’ in the company’s crown. It brings to you an eclectic mix of cuisines and flavours from different corners of the world. The restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and dinner, in an elegant setting with views overlooking the panoramic Lake Pichola. It also offers dining option in Sheesh Mahal and it mirrors the true essence of the kitchens in India. The hotel offers meeting rooms and banquet halls equipped with state-of-the-art facilities. It is one of the most sought after meeting venues in Udaipur, for board meetings, high profile social gatherings, weddings, corporate power meetings and other special celebrations.
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IN FOCUS
The Leela Kempinski, Mumbai
Dining hub of financial hub
I
t offers a lot of options for dining and entertainment. One of them is Stella. Located on the eighth floor of the hotel, Stella is a signature Italian fine dining restaurant, with an unperturbed ambience of understated elegance. It’s the best place to experience the luxury of fine dining, as it offers exquisitely simple Italian cuisine that enthuse the senses with subtle flavours and creative and
delicate flair. The menu is based on Italian regional dishes, authentic ingredients and the freshest seasonal items, complemented by a wide range of fine quality
wines. The fine dining experience starts when you walk through the impressive floor to ceiling wine library, which houses a vast array of wines from around the world. Exquisite furnishings and stunning stellar artworks complete the ambience of the restaurant. For those seeking more privacy, there is an exclusive private dining room with a capacity to seat up to 12 guests. Then, there is Jamavar, an authentic Indian restaurant that offers north and south Indian cuisines. The soft lighting and mellow music here provide for an intimate and relaxed setting. At Jamavar, the dishes reflect the distinctive cooking styles and dining rituals of India’s ancient nobility. Traditional
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Indian spices are intrinsic to the flavours of the specialities served. The menu offered will take you on a culinary journey from succulent kebabs to rich curries and fragrant ‘dum biryanis’. The hotel also features the Great Wall, the award winning Chinese specialty restaurant. It is set amidst breathtaking cascading waterfalls and verdant gardens. It offers a variety of Chinese specialities to suit your palate and mood, in a classical surrounding. It comes with floor to ceiling windows. Since, the natural light creates a cosy ambience for a relaxed lunch. This is accentuated with the calm interior colours along with wooden furnishing. Leela Mumbai also has Citrus, a zestful, vibrant all
day dining restaurant, with an open show kitchen. Under the streams of natural light, an ambience of relaxed sophistication, comfortable and stylish environment, Citrus is a place where you can enjoy a hearty breakfast, a casual lunch, an afternoon tea or a glass of champagne, and a leisurely dinner. The glass panelled French windows give an incredible view of the lush green outdoors and cascading waterfalls. The heart of the restaurant is the show kitchen where you can interact with the chefs and have your food prepared just the way you want it. The Lobby Lounge at the Leela Kempinski, Mumbai is an ideal venue for a formal or an informal conversation over a cup of tea, a light meal or a glass of wine. The decor has an Indian feel with a cosmopolitan look. Brocade tapestries and ethnic bronze statues add an Indian touch to this convivial location. Visit Six Degrees, a lively cosmopolitan bar housed in the hotel, if you wish to enjoy extensive beverage options, food and music, in a vibrant and most decidedly contemporary setting.
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The Leela Palace Kempinski, Bangalore
Garden City’s attraction
T
he Leela Palace Kempinski, Bangalore
floors of exclusive luxury accommodation, with
stands majestically amidst seven acres
a club lounge and a reception. Privacy and
also has two signature restaurants, to excite
of lush gardens and a sparkling lagoon,
personalised attention are the highlights of the
the palate of the guests and provide a fine
in the garden city of Bangalore. It is built in an
club floors. Its business centre offers meeting
dining experience. Jamavar, the Indian
art-deco form, drawing inspiration from the
rooms, confidential secretarial services,
speciality restaurant, serves an array of the
architectural style of the Royal Palace of
private workstations, with computers and
finest recipes drawn from the ‘royal kitchens’
Mysore and the palaces of the Vijayanagar
internet access, mobile phone rentals and a
of India. Zen traverses across Asia to serve
Empire. Its copper domes, arches and ornate
host of other services, catering to a wide
Teppanyaki, Sushi, Thai, Indonesia and Malay
ceilings harken the grandeur of palaces of
spectrum of requirements of a business
cuisines. The Library Bar offers a relaxing
yore. From the hand-tufted carpets to the soft
traveller. The hotel also features Citrus, the 24
refuge and specialises in conjuring up the
pastel walls, from the hand picked crystal to
hour brasserie. It serves contemporary,
most interesting Martinis.
the finest bone china, the hotel has the best,
international cuisine, fresh crisp salads, a
the world has to offer.
The Leela Palace Kempinski, Bangalore
It has 25,000 square feet of conference
variety of pastas and a selection of delectable
and banquet facilities, with the finest audio-
Situated on Airport road, the hotel is in
pizzas from the wood fired pizza ovens. All
visual equipment and facilities. Its grand
close proximity to the business district and the
these make the restaurant, one of its kind in
ballroom, one of the largest pillar-free rooms
KGA golf course. The Leela Palace, Bangalore
the city. It has a display kitchen, where expert
in the city, can accommodate up to 500 guests
has all the attributes of comfort, technology
chefs conjure up a wide variety of delicacies,
for a conference, while the royal ballroom is
and design. State-of-the-art facilities and its
right before the eyes. The restaurant also
exquisitely designed for up to 160 guests for a
regal ambience combine to provide
offers al-fresco dining on the deck, facing the
conference, or 400 guests for a reception. In
outstanding service that is synonymous with
pool and the landscaped gardens.
addition, there are two boardrooms and six
The Leela Group.
meeting rooms, well equipped with state-of-
The hotel has been designed by the world
the-art facilities.
famous California-based firm Wimberley
The Leela Health Spa at this hotel is an
Allison Tong and Goo, which also have to its
oasis of wellness and relaxation. Specialists
credit The Palace of The Lost City, a famous
from Kerala administer the ancient and
palace hotel at Sun City in South Africa.
traditional ayurvedic treatments such as
The palm lined approach of the hotel leads
‘pizhichil’, ‘sirodhara’ and ‘podikizhy’. The spa
past an exquisite marble fountain into a
offers western holistic therapy, administered
windswept lobby that overlooks lush gardens,
by professionally trained staff. Saunas, steam
waterfalls and lily ponds. A striking feature of
baths, therapy suites, jacuzzi and body jet
the hotel is its majestic airy porte-cochere, at
showers make this a most comprehensive
the entrance. The Leela Palace Kempinski,
rejuvenation centre. It also houses a
Bangalore features six floors and in them a
gymnasium that has latest cardio-theatre, with
total of 254 elegant and spacious rooms and
top of the line cyber and precor equipment
suites. Each room has a balcony overlooking
and a contemporary workout-station, for
the azure pool, or the verdant gardens in the
weight training.
courtyard and includes an Italian marble
At the end of a busy day, guests can
bathroom, with separate walk-in glass shower
luxuriate in the outdoor jacuzzi or bask on the
enclosure.
sun deck by the swimming pool, after a dip in
It houses a Royal Club consisting of two TRAVEL PARTNER
ASIAN TRAVELLER
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its inviting cool waters. PARTNER COUNTRY HOSPITALITY PARTNER
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IN FOCUS
The Leela, Goa
Queen of Goa
S
prawled over 75 acres, The Leea Goa offers an atmosphere, which is nothing less than what one gets when one blends south India’s temple traditions with Portuguese heritage. This five star beach resort
located in south Goa is a good place for one to unwind, enjoying Mobor beach and bustling fishing village along the Sal River. The hotel offers a choice of 206 rooms, suites and villas as well as a host of dining options and leisure activities. Its state-of-the-art business centre is the perfect destination for a company conference. Set against the backdrop of an intriguing fusion of colonial Portugal and modern India, The Leela Goa itself is a place worth exploring. In the Club, the Leea Goa has a hotel within a hotel. It has nine club suites, with private terrace or balcony as well as specially assigned butler. The hotel has a wide variety of Goa restaurants and lounges and one can enjoy many moods of Goa at these restaurants. The hotel houses famous restaurant Susegado. Meaning ‘relax and live a little’ in local Konkani, Susegado is the most elegant seafood grill beach restaurant.
Susegado serves not only the freshest catch from the seas, but also well-grilled meats, washed down with special frozen cocktails. Live music and the briny breeze combine to offer a fantastic atmosphere, for one to enjoy the food in a different world. Riverside offers another dining option for the guests. Set up on an open terrace by the Sal River, Riverside is the place to enjoy your food listening to the light music. It offers Italian cuisine and you can enjoy moonlight moments with your loved ones here. If you are a party animal, then Aqua is the best place. This entertainment
“
Also, visit the Pool Bar for cocktails. The Leela Goa provides a well-rounded environment for meetings and incentives. Its conference and meeting rooms can accommodate up to 400 people, according to the choice of venue and seating configuration. Outdoor functions can be hosted on the foreshore lawns, beachside and pool side, depending on the season and number of attendees.
With his amazing energy, indomitable tenacity and passion for excellence, Capt. Nair is an inspirational leader to our Leela team continuously urging us forward to be the best! His unique
combination of vision, courage and grit has resulted in iconic hotels like The Leela Palace Bangalore, The Leela Palace Udaipur and The Leela Palace New Delhi. An eternal optimist and a patriot, Chairman Capt. Nair is a great believer of the power and potential of India Rajiv Kaul, President, The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts
“
I was fortunate to meet Captain Nair 15 years ago, when he was preparing to open The Leela Goa. Never did I imagine that one day I would work with him in Mumbai and support his vision. With seven award-winning properties in key locations in India, we are in an
enviable position to take our brand forward, as the young Indian hotel company, celebrating a genuine sense of culture, graciousness and warmth. Plans are also underway to mark our silver jubilee next year, which will include a variety of events and innovations that will appeal to our loyal guests. None of this would be possible without the support of Captain Nair and his keen eye to ensure brand consistency in operations and marketing. It is a sincere pleasure to work with someone of such vision and passion
Julia Gajcak Vice President, Global Marketing and Corporate Communications
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lounge can accommodate over a hundred party animals, at a time. Apart from semi-private lounges and a cigar divan, Aqua also boasts a spellbinding sound-lights-laser experience. To enjoy a tea in the afternoon, cocktails in the evening or cognac and cigars after dinner, make sure that you are in Yali lounge, which overlooks beautifully landscaped waterfalls, tropical gardens and lagoons.
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IN FOCUS
The Le ela, Kovalam Beach Leela,
Miniature Kerala
T
here are many reasons why The Leela,
Each room is attractively styled with a
Kovalam Beach is one of the top beach-
pleasing mix of contemporary and Kerala
front resorts in Kovalam and in its
ethnic designs and colours. Besides the
vicinity. The resort has an expansive 1.5 km of
popular beach-view wing, there are also the
exclusive beaches and offers its guests every
sea-view and pavilion wings, at Leela Kovalam
comfort and luxury they desire.
Beach. The sea-view wing houses 60
Located just a short distance from
impressive club rooms, three club suites and
Trivandrum Airport, it’s a spot where travellers
the maharaja suite. The pavilion wing, with
can reach with ease. As it is perched on a
individual parlour rooms, is located on the
cliff, The Leela offers stunning views of the
ground floor and offers its guests sea and
Kovalam coastline and the coconut plantations garden views. around it. With 194 guestrooms and suites
The beach hotel also houses a sprawling
perched on a rock-face, on both sides of
ayurveda and wellness spa. It offers the best
sweeping wide beaches, it is no wonder that
of ancient remedies for rejuvenation and well
guests tend to feel that they have arrived at a
being. It has seven treatment rooms and a
private beach paradise.
dedicated foot massage pavilion.
Your window to Arabian Sea
T
he Club at the Leela Kempinski
tastefully appointed club offers a host of
Kovalam Beach, Kerala has emerged as
premium amenities to the travellers, such as
one of the sought after luxury resorts in
private two way airport transfers in a Nissan X
India. It was created inspired by the club at
Trail, all day butler service, complimentary
the Leela Goa, (the first to follow the resort
pressing service, welcome drink and
within a resort concept), which has set new
traditional welcome on arrival, complimentary
standards in luxury and service.
tea/coffee maker in the room with daily
The club at the Leela Kovalam is India’s only cliff top Club, overlooking the Arabian Sea. Developed with an investment of nearly
replenishment and complimentary usage of the gym and swimming pool facilities. The club also features a fine array of
$5 million, it offers 49 rooms, six executive
dining options. Its café serves international
suites and one deluxe suite. Built on the edge
and Indian cuisine, with a selection of
of a cliff, all the club rooms offer an
extensive wine and beverages. It also offers a
astounding view of the Arabian Sea. Standing
wide selection of western instrumental for all
on the balcony of the room, each designed
meal periods. The club also houses cigar
like a private sea-deck, one can gaze miles
lounge. It has extensive cigar collection,
into the expanse of the deep blue waters. The
cognacs and single malts display. Another
club promises the finest in comfort and the
attraction is the library lounge and its interiors
most exhilarating experience of nature, at its
and décor showcase a wide collection of thick
best.
leather books. In addition, the club also
Designed by the renowned American architect Carl Ettensperger, elegantly and
“
Capt. Nair will always remain a
role model to us. He continues to inspire each and every hotelier, young and old. He redefined luxury in the hotel industry and will continue to do so
N.C. Somaiah GM, Leela, Kovalam
features an exclusive spa, offering international massages and treatments. The spa houses an exclusive infinity pool and an Alfresco restaurant.
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FACE TO FACE AT Sep 2011 Page 130
Promoters of domestic tourism While most of the tour companies focus on safe destinations, Kesari Tours Pvt Ltd travels the unbeaten tracks and takes the pains to promote destinations such as Kashmir. With the proper understanding of the market and an earnest desire to take domestic tourism to new heights, Kesari is making rapid strides in the domestic tour front. In an interview to Asian Traveller, Veena Patel (MD, Kesari Tours) and Sudhir Patel (Director, Kesari Tours) talked about Indian tourism industry and their modus operandi and future plans. Edited Excerpts: How fertile is the current tourism scenario for players like you? Indian tourism industry has always been on the growth track. Though it has seen ups and downs in the recent past, largely due to the recession, it is again back in business, now. However, during the slowdown, India saw substantial growth in its domestic tourism. Since Kesari is a leading domestic tourism player, we explored states like Kashmir, Himachal, Kerala, Rajasthan, West Bengal, Uttarakhand, etc. Then, a lot of outbound is happening and the credit goes to the various national tourism boards present in India and their marketing. We see good days ahead for tourism industry and we hope to do good business. Do you get support from the government and according to you, what are the issues that demand its immediate attention? Government support is not there. At present, the domestic tourism is moving ahead with the efforts of hoteliers and individual tour operators, etc. We need a lot of infrastructure facilities, at different tourist places. Besides, basic amenities such as refreshing rooms, good parking space should be provided. Also, it is high time we addressed interstate tourist permit tax. Different states should sit together and work out a strategy to promote domestic tourism. The Sri Lankan tourism is on fast-track growth orbit. Do you think that it will affect the growth prospects of Indian tourism? PARTNER COUNTRY HOSPITALITY PARTNER
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Generally, overseas tourism encounters problems associated with visa requirement. But, countries like Sri Lanka, Thailand and Hong Kong have decided to do away with visa, I mean, arrival visa scheme. Then, when it comes to Sri Lanka, they are offering a lot of attractive promotional packages, with the help of their airlines. These packages are very economical, compared to the domestic packages that we offer. So, the acceptance level is so high. Besides, it has several good hotels that provide decent accommodation, at economical rates. Hence, the growth of Sri Lankan tourism is likely to affect our metro cities. Otherwise, as far as conventional tourist destinations are considered, the impact is minimal. If a competition arises, do you think that India has ample infrastructure to take competition to such countries? Of course not! However, the situation may change in the long run. We need new technologies and systems, good roads and other tourism related infra. We also need to promote tourism aggressively. It is good to see some states are trying to place themselves on the national and international tourism map. But, these states must take private players into confidence and work together. However, as of now, it is not happening. Would you please brief us on the role of Kesari in promoting Indian tourism and culture? Kesari is a privately owned and professionally managed commercial
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FACE TO FACE travel company. Taking domestic tourists to all over India is in itself a big task. I think we are playing a major role in executing this tough task. The vastness of our country offers a lot of potential in tourism, which often remains untapped. What usually happens is that when people start travelling to overseas destinations, they completely avoid, or say, forget India. As a travel company and as a leading travel agent, I think it is our responsibility to see to it that Indians are exploring India. If they are not looking at India, it is going to be a disaster. Hence, our plan is to promote domestic tourism. And, that is what we are doing now. For instance, we are promoting Kashmir as a 365 days destination and in the process we are taking out the fear and scare from the tourists’ mind, related to this spot. I think, it very important. Though we are all Indians, we all come from different states and each state is different. Hence, its citizens have several destinations to explore within India and we are providing
ASIAN TRAVELLER
SEPTEMBER 2011
packages to everywhere. The domestic travellers need assistants and we are providing that assistance in a better and professional way. We are also promoting India in a big way. We have four major
to be perfect. As a market leader, we are doing things in a different yet more creative and innovative way. We are passionate about being creating and passionate and that is what our USP is.
teams focusing on Europe, South East Asia India and the other world. However, India is our major market and we are betting big on it. What is your USP? USP of Kesari, I think, is the passion with which we undertake each project. We are very open to our tourists and put in a lot of effort to make our every venture a success. As a leading company, we have to create products and we have
As a giant in the Indian tourism industry, what is your message to the ones, who wants to open a tour company? My message is simple. India is so vast and its each state has a lot of tourism potential and there is something for everyone. Hence, instead of trying to test somebody else, one has to create a unique brand and conquer market. Instead of pulling legs, different companies need to work together.
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NEWSLINE
Singapore Cruise Centre to sponsor CSA 2011
S
ingapore Cruise Centre Pvt. Ltd., has
Terminal at Marina South, the capacity of
smiles Christina Siaw, CEO, SCC. “We
a reason to smile. As luck would have
Singapore’s cruise terminal infrastructure is
look forward to CSA 2011 and the
it, UBM Live and UBM Asia have
expected to double, by April 2012.
opportunities to learn, network and share
selected it to be the exclusive platinum
experiences and expertise within and outside
Also, SCC has played a lead role in
sponsor for the inaugural Cruise Shipping
forming the Asia Cruise Terminal Association
Asia (CSA) event scheduled to be held from
(ACTA) and chairs the organisation. ACTA is a
November 16-18, 2011, in Singapore. Cruise
regional forum for cruise terminal operators,
conference sessions will feature key industry
Organised by UBM Live and UBM Asia, CSA
to cooperate in terminal development, create
topics, including the state of the Asian cruise
2011 is a tradeshow cum conference event,
awareness on available facilities and services
industry, sourcing, shipbuilding, marketing
with a focus on the Asia Pacific cruise market.
and operations and management.
and successfully tailoring the cruise
As the show’s principal sponsor,
of the industry.” According to the organisers, CSA
experience for the Asian market. The event
“We share the CSA vision to tap into the
Singapore Cruise Centre (SCC) will have a
rapid growth of the cruise industry in Asia-
will also feature a travel agent training
golden opportunity to showcase its position
Pacific and it is our honor and privilege to be
programme, to promote awareness on
as an award-winning cruise terminal operator,
the platinum sponsor of this inaugural event,”
cruising as a holiday option in Asia.
in one of the fastest-growing markets in the
Among other things, the CSA exhibition is
industry.
learnt to feature destinations, itinerary
“Securing SCC as our platinum sponsor is
planning, shore excursion services, port,
a testament to the efforts we make to
terminal development as well as ship
transform CSA as an event, to build the pan-
operations, ship services and hotel
Asia region as an emerging cruise market,”
operations.
says Michael Kazakoff, vice-president, UBM
UBM Live is a wholly owned subsidiary of
Live, organiser of CSA and annual Cruise
UBM plc, a leading provider of business
Shipping Miami shows.
information services to the maritime, travel,
SCC handles more than eight million
fashion, technology, healthcare, media and
passengers annually, at three ferry terminals
property industries. UBM Asia is the leading
and one cruise terminal. With the opening of
organiser of exhibitions in Asia and is owned
the state-of-the-art International Cruise
by UBM plc.
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NEWSLINE
DB Realty to acquire 49 per cent stake in its hospitality arm
I
n a major move, Mumbaibased DB Realty has decided to buy up to 49 per cent stake in its hospitality arm DB Hospitality Ltd, an unlisted firm, where the promoters hold the majority stake. The promoters of the company, Vinod Goenka and Shahid Balwa, own 80.92 per cent in DB Hospitality, while the rest is owned by private equity funds, including IIRF Holdings, VIII Limited and IL&FS Trust Company Ltd. “The board has approved
to buy up to 49 per cent stake in the hospitality business and we will do it in a timely and phased manner. We have already hired four international property consultants, to do the valuations and one law firm, to draw the plans. We will not raise any debt to make the buy. The stake buy-out will enable both the funds and the promoter an opportunity to exit,” says R Sridhar, Group Director, DB Realty. Mauritius-based Trinity Capital (Seven) Ltd
had exited its stake in the hospitality firm, last year. Currently, DB Realty does not own any stake in its hospitality arm. It had invested around Rs 200 crore last year in DB Hospitality, which will now be converted into equity. The company will invest an incremental amount of Rs 500 crore, which will be divided into two tranches. In the first tranche, it will spend Rs 300-400 crore and another Rs 200 crore in the final stage. The total
investment will be around Rs 700 crore. DB Hospitality operates 900 rooms, in four hotels. The properties in Mumbai and Ahmedabad are managed by Hilton Worldwide. It also has one hotel each in Rajasthan and Goa. The company plans to operate about 2500 rooms in the next four years. It is also working on setting up five properties with Hyatt Hotels Corporation in areas like Mumbai, Pune, Mundra (Gujarat) and Goa.
who possess a valid passport, and who have travelled to Europe at least once. Globus and Cosmos, Globus family of brands, offer more than 30 vacations to Italy, many with year round departures. Globus is the leader in premium coach touring, while Cosmos offers value vacations. Their balanced itineraries are designed in a way to give travellers an opportunity to enjoy the must see sights and offer free time to explore the destination on
their own. Many vacations venture into the little known sights that make Tuscany what it is. Some tours will take you to San Gimignano, Pisa, or to Sienna, while some packages include Chianti wine tasting in Verzanno. Toscana Promozione, the Tuscany Tourist Board, is dedicated to the promotion of one of Italy’s finest regions in the Indian market, with a plethora of travel trade, internet and consumer activities.
Win a trip to Tuscany online contest launched
A
s the province of Tuscany remains one of the most popular regions for tourists visiting Italy, Globus family of brands in association with Toscana Promozione, the Tuscany Tourism Board, has launched ‘Win a trip to Tuscany’ online contest. The move is aimed at attracting growing number of Indian travellers to Italy, to Tuscany. Known for the magnificent legacy of renaissance art, spectacular vine-
yards and mouth-watering cuisines, Tuscany has always managed to satiate the traveller’s thirst for a glimpse into the European culture. To participate in the contest, all one has to do is to visit the website www.cosmosvacations.in and answer three simple questions about Tuscany and Cosmos. Correct entries will be shortlisted for a lucky draw, at the end of the contest. The contest is open to all Indian adults,
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PARTNER COUNTRY HOSPITALITY PARTNER
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NEWSLINE
What’s in a road’s name?
W
ill there be a ‘New Silk Road’ is the question doing rounds in the minds of many activists, who do not want to undermine the historic originality of the ‘Silk Road’. In what can be considered as an interesting move, networking of responsible tourism organisations under the banner of 'The Region Initiative' (TRI) has appealed to the Chinese government to not to use the name 'New Silk Road', for its new cross-border road project that will run through Central Asia and continue into Europe, facilitating improved transport and trade. Though it admits that the 213 km expressway between Kashgar and Erkeshtam, which is set to open by Sep-
tember 2013, will be the first expressway to cross the Pamirs Plateau, offering access to Central Asia and a new link between Asia and Europe, TRI is dead against calling it the New Silk Road. It reasons that such a name may undermine the historic originality of Silk Road. The 'Silk Road' refers to a network of interlinking trade routes across the Afro-Eurasian landmass that connect East, South and Western Asia,
with the Mediterranean and European world, as well as parts of North and East Africa. The land routes were supplemented by sea routes which extended from the Red Sea to East Africa, India, China and Southeast Asia.
TRI is a tri-regional organisation and functions as a link between three regions South Asia, Central Asia and Eastern Europe. It believes that the 'Silk Road' name should be copyrighted, so that only the original 'Silk Road' may use the name and any use of 'Silk Road' for any new project should be considered as piracy. TRI is a networking of regional inter-governmental organisations, non-governmental organisations, tour operators and other stakeholders of South Asia, Central Asia and Eastern Europe, with partners in Armenia, Bangladesh, India, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan, Nepal, Tajikistan, Russia, Sri Lanka, Turkey and Uzbekistan.
TAAI gets new managing committee
A
t the recently held annual general meeting (AGM) of Travel Agents Association of India (TAAI), Iqbal Mulla, chairman of MM Group, has been elected as the body’s president, for a term of two years. Mulla, who was earlier
serving the association in his capacity as honorary treasurer, will succeed Rajji Rai. The AGM, held in New Delhi, also saw elections for other new office bearers. At the meeting, N M Sharafudeen, Managing
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Partner, Kerala-based Omega Travel & Tourist Agency, was elected as Vice President, while Sunil Kumar R, CEO of Travel World was re-elected as Honorary Secretary General. N G Shankar, Director of Durga World Travels India has been voted to treasurer. Other members of the managing committee are Harmandeep Singh Anand, Marzban Antia, Ramesh Bhatia, Amarjit Singh Gujral, Pazhani Murugesan, Sunil Notani and Manoj Sogani. At its first meeting, the managing committee
increased its strength by adding Lokesh Bettaiah and Venkatachalam, to the committee. The AGM was attended by around 550 members from across India and the new managing committee will hold office for two years (2011-2013). “The new managing committee will go all out to enhance the image of TAAI and ensure that it maintains its place as the leading travel and tourism association in India,” assures Mulla.
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ITB ASIA
ITB Asia to be held in Singapore from October 19-21, 2011
I
TB Asia is a unique international platform that unites the travel and tourism industry, to exchange valuable insights and business leads. The event usually attracts more than 6000 attendees and 720 exhibitors, from over 60 countries. This year, ITB Asia will be held at Suntec Singapore, from October 1921, 2011. Organised by Messe Berlin (Singapore) Pte Ltd and supported by the Singapore Exhibition and Convention Bureau, ITB Asia is where international exhibitors of all sectors of the travel-value chain, Asia Pacific’s leading
ASIAN TRAVELLER
Travel (WIT) Conference and TravelRave. TravelRave is a mega travel and tourism festival week organised by the Singapore Tourism Board and it will showcase world class trade events that provide a broad platform for industry leaders, experts and professionals across the entire travel eco-system, to develop meetings, incentives, business opportunities, share conferences and exhibitions (MICE), leisure and corporate insights and best practices, etc. travel markets. The seventh WIT, to be ITB Asia features full range held in association with ITB of travel products, services and goods, and functions as a Asia, will once again see the gathering of leaders in the knowledge platform for the industry. Major attractions at travel distribution, marketing and technology industry. ITB Asia include Web in travel companies and emerging small and medium cap enterprises meet with top international buyers, from the
SEPTEMBER 2011
The main attraction of ITB Asia would be the TTG Travel Agent Conference, the region’s first travel agent conference to be organised by TTG Asia Media. It promises to deliver practical know-how and tangible learning points that travel agents can apply to their businesses to elevate success. “With close to 800 exhibiting companies from 60 countries from different walks of the Asian travel industry participating in the show, ITB Asia sits on the pulse of the regional travel, tourism and hospitality industries,” says Nino Gruettke, Executive Director, ITB Asia.
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NEWSLINE
CTTC to sell California to Indian travellers
W
ith an eye to pull more
history. All travel agents who
travel trade. We have received a
importance of the Indian travel
Indian travellers to
complete the programme will earn
very positive response to our
market, to the United States,” says
California, California
a California Expert certification,
educational forums and with this
Malcolm Smith, vice president -
Travel and Tourism Commission
while the first 100 people will be
online training programme, we
business development, US Travel
(CTTC) has unveiled California
eligible to participate in a prize
aim to further educate the travel
Association. “We are pleased to
Expert, an online training
drawing and the two lucky agents
trade on the endless holiday
hold face-to-face meetings
programme, and a Travel Trade
will win a VIP trip to California.
options California offers to
between US travel destinations
travellers,” maintains Sheema
and organisations and
Expert programme, agents can
Vohra, President, Sartha
representatives from the Indian
to effectively and creatively sell
log on to the recently launched
Marketing Consultants and
travel market. We look forward to
California to their customers and
Travel Trade Portal (www.
CTTC’s representative in India.
building the relationship between
help us introduce the golden
traveltrade.visitcalifornia.com).
state, to the increasing number of
This new global web portal hosts
fifth annual trade mission to India
The growth in Indian travel to
Indian travellers,” says, Caroline
many tools to help sell California,
recorded 32 representatives from
the US is one of the reasons why
Beteta, President and CEO, CTTC.
including event listings, itinerary
US destinations and suppliers.
US Travel Association released a
planning resources, in-state
The US representatives met Indian
plan in May, to reform the visa
programme is expected to provide
industry contacts and thousands
tour operators, airline
system. The objective of such a
more insights to the travel agents
of photographs.
representatives and travel agents,
move is to increase staffing,
both in Mumbai and New Delhi.
reduce visa interview wait times
Portal during the US Travel Association’s fifth travel trade
After completing the California
mission to India, held recently in New Delhi. “India is one of the fastest growing markets for California. The new California Expert programme and Travel Trade Portal are essential elements of our strategic programme, designed to educate the travel trade on the many options our state offers to visitors. These online tools will empower agents,
The California Expert
about its distinctive regions,
“We are extremely excited
attractions, beaches, lifestyle,
about the launch of the California
entertainment, shopping and
Expert programme for the Indian
The US Travel Association’s
“This year’s increased participation is indicative of the
the two countries,” he adds.
and expand the visa waiver programme.
New Zealand uses twitter to draw Chinese tourists
T
ourism New Zealand (TNZ) has now turned to social media tools like twitter, to attract tourists to the country. In a latest development, TNZ has started to use Sino Weibo, China’s version of twitter, to draw Chinese tourists to the island
country. New Zealand has, as per the reports, appointed Yao Chen, China’s most followed micro-blogger, as its brand ambassador in the Mainland. Yao has caught the attention of more than 10.9 million followers on Sina Weibo.
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Recently, she went on a promotional trip to New Zealand under the marketing campaign ‘100 Hours: Chen Yao Revives Your Emotions’. She has shared picturesque sights of New Zealand with her followers, through attached photos in her
entries. “We believe that Yao’s influence will help raise Chinese tourists’ interest in our country and encourage them to experience New Zealand first-hand,” smiles, Mark Frood, TNZ General Manager, Asia Markets.
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NEWSLINE
Uttarakhand eyes a place among top five destinations
U
ttarakhand Tourism Development Board (UTDB) has initiated a slew of measures, with an eye to secure a place among India’s top five tourism destinations. As part of this, the country’s only hilly state in the top 10 list in terms of tourist arrivals, is considering new stretches for river rafting, to promote adventure tourism and is looking at support infrastructure through private partnership, to turn virgin spots into hot destinations. Currently, Uttarakhand is India’s seventh most preferred tourist state, attracting 4.1 per cent of domestic tourists. “We are promoting adventure sports, traditional ‘yatra’ routes, eco-tourism, and leisure tourism to see our state among the country’s top five destinations,” says, Rakesh
Sharma, CEO, UTDB, and Principal Secretary – Tourism, Government of Uttarakhand. The board has also plans to develop new tourist circuits, to promote the state’s unexplored destinations. “We are getting the much needed support from the state government, which is developing infrastructure to boost tour-
ism through private partnerships,” Sharma adds. The board is also planning new air routes to certain destinations, which lack in connectivity. The state tourism board is participating in trade fairs across the globe, to attract both foreign and domestic tourists. The idea is to strengthen its relationship
with travel and tour operators, who play a significant role in promoting a destination. As per the available information, Uttarakhand saw around 31 million domestic tourists in 2010, up 34 per cent, from 23.1 million in the previous year. Foreign tourists to the state rose marginally to 0.13 million, from 0.11 million, last year. India’s top 10 destinations in terms of tourist arrivals are Andhra Pradesh (155.8 million), Uttar Pradesh (144.8 million), Tamil Nadu (111.6 million), Maharashtra (48.5 million), Karnataka (38.2 million), Madhya Pradesh (38.1 million), Uttarakhand (30.9 million), Rajasthan (25.5 million), West Bengal (21.1 million) and Gujarat (18.9 million).
TN seeks private investments to propel tourism infra
I
t seems Tamil Nadu (TN) is in a belligerent mood to develop tourism infrastructure in the state. The TN government, in its revised budget, has sought private investments to develop tourism infrastructure in the state. “Eco-tourism circuits, linking hill stations, forests and beaches will be encouraged by developing suitable infrastructure, under a public-private partnership
mode. The government will facilitate private investments in the tourism sector. Private investors will be encouraged to use the traditional buildings in such places Panneerselvan as hotels,” Finance Minister, TN says O Panneerselvan, finance minister, Tamil Nadu. He said efforts are being
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made to strengthen tourism infrastructure in Madurai, Rameswaram, Kanyakumari and Thanjavur, at a cost of Rs 51 crore. In another move, nine projects will be taken up at a cost of Rs 53 crore during 2011-2012, under Destination Tourism Development Schemes. Religious tourism will also get a push, as Rs 22.50 crore has been provided for renovating 89 heritage
temples. “Tamil Nadu is one of the four states selected by the central government for implementation of the ‘inclusive tourism infrastructure project’, with financial assistance from the Asian Development Bank at an outlay of Rs 450 crore,” smiles Panneerselvan.
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NEWSLINE
IT&CMA and CTW to be held in Bangkok
I
ncentive Travel and Conventions, Meetings Asia (IT&CMA) and Corporate Travel World (CTW), Asia’s only doublebill event in meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions (MICE) and corporate segments, will be held at Bangkok Convention Centre, CentralWorld, Bangkok, from October 4-6, 2011. This year, IT&CMA and CTW will have much to celebrate, as this international business event commemorates its tenth year in Thailand. The event will be noted for exceptionally strong exhibitor showcase, new and innovative sponsored activities to engage delegates and an enviable buyer profile that includes some of the industry’s mega buying houses. The event is being organised by TTG Asia Media. “Despite the good showing in terms of exhibitor numbers, we are looking to reemphasise its ability to deliver a quality exhibition showcase
of international MICE and corporate travel suppliers. We want to position IT&CMA and CTW as a powerful international platform for suppliers around the world, to achieve their diverse business objectives,” says, Darren Ng, Managing Director, TTG Asia Media. As per the available information, IT&CMA will bring together MICE suppliers and buyers in a three-day exhibition Darren Ng that will MD, TTG Asia Media feature products, services and solutions related to meetings, incentives, conventions and events. On the other hand, CTW Asia Pacific is a conference driven by corporate travel and entertainment (T&E) content. Influencers, planners and decision makers from
corporate travel usually attend this annual conference, to get the most out of their (T&E) decisions. This year, the event will see emerging MICE destinations Cambodia and Vietnam making their debut at IT&CMA and CTW. “With the objective of promoting and increasing awareness of their capabilities as a MICE destination, Ministry of Tourism, Cambodia and Vietnam MICE Club are set to make a powerful inaugural statement, with a 36sqm and a 48sqm booth, respectively. This achievement also represents the event’s first major breakthrough in the Indochina region,” say the event organisers. For the first time, the event will feature Hosted Delegate Lounge and Roving Polaroid Pictures. Sponsored by Busan, Hosted Delegate Lounge will provide an opportunity for
hosted buyers and media to catch up on business without having to miss other things at the event, while Intercontinental Hotels and Resorts’ Roving Polaroid Pictures will allow delegates to capture memories of the event, as they happen. The organisers are expecting a 10 per cent increase in the number of exhibiting companies at IT&CMA and CTW, this year. “Exhibitors looking for buyers with deep pockets will be satisfied to meet representatives from organisations with annual budgets for Asia ranging from $250,000 to $2,000,000. The event will also welcome firsttime MICE buyers from eight new countries - Argentina, Bangladesh, Cambodia, Denmark, Latvia, Lebanon, Macedonia and Saudi Arabia all with a keen interest in buying into Asia,” conclude the organisers.
ITC luxur y hotels get green certification
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n what can be regarded as a defining moment of its successful journey so far, ITC Ltd has received LEED Platinum certification for
all its luxury hotels, from the US Green Building Council and the Indian Green Building Council, for exemplary green practices. “All the eight luxury hotels of ITC have been accorded the LEED Platinum certification, making us the only luxury hotel chain in the world to achieve this distinction,” smiles, Nakul Anand, executive director, ITC Ltd. “This distinction is an endorsement of ITC Hotels’ credo of ‘responsible luxury’, an ethos that integrates world-class green best practices with contemporary design elements, to deliver the best of luxury in the greenest possible manner, with the lowest environmental footprint,” he cheerfully adds.
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NEWSLINE
MS AmaCerto to usher in a new era of river cruising
A
ward winning river cruise line AmaWaterways is set to usher in a new era of river cruising, with the debut of its new vessel MS AmaCerto in Europe, next year. To be introduced as part of tenth anniversary of AmaWaterways, the 164seater MS AmaCerto is expected to advance the innovative design concepts of the MS AmaBella (2010) and MS AmaVerde (2011), which are considered to be the most luxurious, imaginative and amenity filled vessels, on the Danube River. It will mark its inaugural cruise with a ‘Tulip Time’ sailing, departing on April 12, 2012. With a design inspired by classic ocean yachts, MS
AmaCerto will feature a magnificent glass elevator, an al fresco Café at the forward portion of the ship shielded by a protective glass windbreaker, a heated swimming pool on the Sun Deck featuring a ‘swim-up’ bar as well as two ‘tapas and wine’ venues and an elegant Chef’s Table Restaurant featuring a different tasting menu prepared each evening by its own chef. “We are extremely proud to mark the tenth anniversary of AmaWaterways, with the launch of the MS AmaCerto. It truly represents a new generation of ship design, with a distinctive exterior and interior that surpasses any other vessel ever seen on European rivers. We have
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worked closely to custom design a beautiful vessel that will set new standards in the industry, for many years to come,” says, Rudi Schreiner, President, AmaWaterways. The new vessel will have ‘twin balconies’, consisting of a French balcony and a full step-out balcony, for relaxing and enjoying river side views. Twin balconies comprise the majority of the ship’s stateroom categories. Its staterooms come in a color palette of crisp white and champagne with apricot and bronze accents. It also has unique design elements such as a window between the bathroom and the stateroom, tufted headboards and Berberstyle carpets. Staterooms also house an exclusive
infotainment system. As with the every AmaWaterways vessel in Europe, membership in the prestigious Chaîne des Rôtisseurs insures the finest gastronomic experience on the rivers. The MS AmaCerto also features a cozy ‘fireside’ library, observation lounge, 24-hour specialty coffee and tea station, fitness center and massage, hair and beauty salon. Founded in 2002, AmaWaterways is the premier river cruise operator in Europe, Russia, Vietnam and Cambodia. Known for its innovative ship design, complimentary onboard amenities and personalized service levels, AmaWaterways consistently leads the way in river cruising
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NEWSLINE
Tourism Australia appoints Ketchum Inc as its PR agency
T
great job for us over the past
years, with an option to extend
appointed Ketchum Inc as
demonstrated a solid
“The Ketchum team
three years, including helping to
the contract for a further 12
its public relations agency
understanding of our business
roll out our current global brand
months.
in Americas, for the next three
and the future of public relations.
campaign, There’s nothing like
years.
With Ketchum’s experience across
Australia,” he adds.
ourism Australia has
Ketchum will manage public
new media channels, there is
Ketchum’s activity will focus
“Tourism Australia is a golden opportunity for Ketchum and we are thrilled to be on board, as a
relations activities across the
tremendous opportunity for us to
on strategic media partnerships,
strategic partner. Australia
United States, Canada and Latin
capitalise on the digital space, to
social media and Tourism
remains one of the most sought-
America, out of its Los Angeles
promote Australia as a tourist
Australia’s International Media
after tourism destinations in the
office. Ketchum is replacing
destination,” says, Daryl Hudson,
Hosting Programme.
world and we are honoured to be
Fleishman-Hillard, which has
Vice President (Americas),
served Tourism Australia for the
Tourism Australia. “Fleishman Hillard has done a
last three years.
Ketchum Inc started its new
able to help advance that
assignment on September 9,
mission,” smiles Sean Fitzgerald,
2011 and will run for three
partner, Ketchum.
ground-handling equipment and self check-in kiosks will be carried out. Besides,
Lusaka, Mfuwe and Ndola airports are also being upgraded.
Zambia to become a tourist hub
O
nce the upgradation of Livingstone airport completes, Zambia is expected to become a regional tourist hub. As of now, most of its tourists have to fly first to Johannesburg and then fly back to Livingstone. It takes almost an hour and 45 minutes to fly between the two places. At a time when air travel is so expensive, it would make sense if flights from Europe stop in Livingstone and then continue on to Johannesburg.
The upgradation work of the Livingstone Airport in Zambia is being carried out in three phases. In the first phase, which is expected to be completed by April 2012, works on new international departure terminal will be taken up. This will be followed by works on new arrivals terminal complex for international passengers, a drop-off zone and walkways, in the second phase. In the third phase, works on new
Centara restructures marketing department
T
o meet new and emerging
members have recently joined,
complex demands, Centara
with the expansion of the sales,
Hotels & Resorts,
information technology and
properties throughout Thailand
Collection and Centra Hotels &
Thailand’s largest and fastest-
administration staff. We have now
and 14 properties spread across
Resorts.
growing hotel management
completed the restructuring to
countries like Maldives, Indian
company, has restructured its
take our communication and
Himalayas, Vietnam, Philippines,
for our overseas sales structure,
marketing department and in the
activities to the next level, to
Bali and Mauritius. The company
which now includes the UK,
process added approximately 120
support the wider travel industry,”
now operates five distinct brands
Germany, Russia, Dubai, India,
people to its sales and marketing
says, Chris Bailey, Senior Vice
within the group - Centara Grand
Hong Kong, China (two locations)
team. “Several new senior team
President for Sales and Marketing,
Hotels & Resorts, Centara Hotels
and Australia,” adds Bailey.
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Centara Hotels & Resorts. Centara currently has 45
& Resorts, Centara Residences & Suites, Centara Boutique
“We have a new support team
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FACE TO FACE
Man with a vision Vision can define success. And the success of Rajasekahran Nair, Managing Director, RR Holiday Homes, heralds the importance of having a clear vision in one’s life. With over three decades of experience in hospitality sector and several accomplished projects to his credit, Nair can well be regarded as a synonymous for success. In an interview, he took Asian Traveller through his successful journey as a business man. Edited Excerpts: You are popularly known as a man with a clear vision. What vision you had when you embarked on UDS? Mumbai made me choose the hospitality industry. First it was just for the sake of doing something, but later on I developed an interest in the industry and started thinking about venturing into hospitality in my native place. Keeping that vision in mind, I started seeing things from a different angle. The places I went, the people I met, the hotels I have seen – everything played its role in shaping the dream hotel, in my mind. I studied the pluses and minuses in running a hotel and started working towards the goal. It was with this determination that I started a hotel in Kerala. I had a vision to start it in a big way, but I had to make some compromises, as the situation was not that favourable those days. After trying out your hands in hospitality industry with the hotel and a flight catering business, what is your next plan? I would like to see education and hospitality go side by side. I would like to do utmost good in hospitality and education and I will do my best, as per the latest developments in this field. I like to take it forward by studying and evaluating all the aspects of the industry, without the help of anyone. Only in that way, I think, I will be able to make it a PARTNER COUNTRY HOSPITALITY PARTNER
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emergence of fast food outlets. It is the same with the hospitality industry. We have to move according to the people’s demands. Whatever development or change we are planning to incorporate, it is for the public and not for our benefits. If you keep that in your mind, you will succeed in whatever you are aiming at. The idea of spa and the wellness tourism have come out in the same way. Nowadays, people are ready to spend more on wellness tourism and we must be ready to fulfill their requirements. Otherwise, it will affect the business. How do you promote ayurvedic tourism at UDS? At UDS, we promote ayurvedic tourism in a professional way, with highly skilled doctors giving the best treatments available, to the visitors. At present, the hotel has 200 plus rooms. The increase in the number of repeat guests at the hotel speaks volumes for the professional service we offer. We know that UDS attracts visitors from across the globe. But, from which part of the world are you getting more visitors? In the initial days, UDS had more European guests. Now, we are getting more guests from within India. I must say that our hard work has reduced the off season effect on the tourism industry, considerably. Apart from a few government hotels, there were not many private hotels or resorts in Thiruvananthapuram. And during the off season period, there were hardly any activities and several of the beaches,
success. Besides, we have plans to take Udaya Samudra to new heights. What made you go for flight catering? Flight catering was actually a demand from Air India. In Thiruvananthapuram there was no one in this field. When the option came to me, I embraced it with open hands, as I had in my mind plans to start a catering college in the future. You mentioned about an institution in your native place. What made you think on those lines? The project came to me out of the blue, when I had no plans to start one at that time. There were some problems with an educational institution in my village and I had to help them, as it became difficult for them to take the institution forward. At that point, with requests from the natives, I took up the project. So, it wasn’t a planned or a thought out strategic move. Do you have any plans to upgrade UDS into a five star hotel? Considering the services and facilities we offer, UDS is a five star hotel. But still, we are planning to upgrade it into a five star plus, which will be completed by the next year. What made you enter into wellness tourism? In hospitality industry, it is the needs and demands of the visitors that decide what is to be done. For example, the food style of the people has changed, with the TRAVEL PARTNER
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FACE TO FACE including Hawa beach used to close down. It started affecting the business. We did a lot of marketing, including the introduction of traditional Gujarati and Maharashtrian foods, to bring in domestic clients, during the off season. Such measures paid off and we were able to reduce 50 per cent of the off season period. The domestic travelers/tourists have much potential. There is no point in focusing only on the foreign nationals. The permanent service, as far as UDS is concerned, is focused more on domestic clients. Being a successful businessman, what message do you have for the people, who want to invest in Kerala? There is a huge difference between the investors, who is coming to Kerala and what I am doing here. It is my native place and I have a passion for doing something for/(in) my place. But, those who come with business in their mind will only look out for profits and other benefits. However, the one who spends money should be 100 per cent sure about the
business one is doing. Only then, it will be a success. If you depend on somebody else and invest beyond your capacity, by taking loans or credit, it is not going to work out. If you don’t mind, tell us about your future plans. A four star hotel with 45 rooms is ready to start its functions, by the end of this month. There are also plans to start a catering college along with this. After the beach front resort, we have our eyes set in the hill stations and backwaters. We have plans for Alleppey and Wagamon and we have already identified the land for the resorts. The company is also planning a convention centre with a capacity to accommodate more than 2000 people, at Kowdiar, near the Thiruvananthapuram golf club. We are waiting to get the approval from the corporation. Once we get the approval, work on the convention centre will be completed within a year. This centre may be followed by a five star hotel. Then, we had plans for a marketing
office in UK, but since we felt that it is not a positive move, we have taken an English pub on lease for 10 years. The pub will be converted into a restaurant, bar and office. The renovation work is going on and we hope that we would be able to finish it by October. Could you please tell us about your family? Being a busy person who is always into travelling, how do you manage time for your family? Family comes first and then, business. And, I feel proud to say that I have never missed their vacations or birthdays. My wife Radha Nair is a famous and admired actress of yesteryear south Indian cinema. Our daughter Karthika also has worked in some of the new age films and has been able to make her mark in the south Indian film industry. Our son, who is in eleventh standard, has shown his interests in the hospitality industry, already. He is planning to pursue his career in this field and also has plans to learn catering. The youngest daughter is in ninth standard.
J&K to hold workshops on responsible tourism
T
o promote eco tourism in
such as ecological sensitivity,
Kerala, Ajoy Bhattacharya, CEO of
Jammu and Kashmir (J&K),
conservation of nature and
Madhya Pradesh Ecotourism
Ecotourism Society of India
community development in J&K.
(ESOI), in partnership with J&K
The challenge for the tourism
Tourism and WWF India, will hold
service providers is in the
its seventh and eighth workshops
implementation of environmentally
on ‘Practising Responsible
responsible and sustainable
Tourism’, towards the end of
tourism practices. These practices
Septmber. Organised with the
are expected to create a lighter
support of the ministry of tourism,
footprint and support the local
the seventh workshop will be held
communities and environment,
from September 26-27 at Srinagar,
informs Mandip Singh Soin FRGS,
while the eighth one will be held
president ESOI.
sessions at the workshop. Some of the key topics that are
The State’s Tourism Ministers
at Leh, from September 30 to October 1, 2011. At the Srinagar
Nawang Rigzin Jora and Nasir
workshop, World Tourism Day will
Aslam Wani would preside over
be celebrated on Sep 27,
the event and Omar Abdullah, J&K
Development Board, Jose
to be discussed in the workshop
highlighting the importance of
Chief Minister would give the
Dominic, MD, CGH Earth Hotels,
include, Need for Responsible
responsible tourism, in building a
valedictory speech. More than 100
Cherian Ramapuram, director,
Tourism Practices in the
sustainable tourism industry.
delegates from the tourism
Orange County, Saleem Beg,
Himalayas, Sharing models of
industry are expected to attend
convenor, INTACH J&K, Pankaj
International & Indian Best
setting corrective and curative
the workshop. Eminent
Chandan of WWF India, Seema
Practices, Public–Private-
measures, with regard to tourism
personalities like Dr Venu V, IAS,
Bhatt, Consultant, Biodiversity,
Partnership in Ecotourism
practices. It will also handle topics
Secretary Tourism, Government of
etc., are expected to engage the
initiatives, etc.
“The workshops will aim at
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NEW WAVE
Aamby Valley Cit y
Luxurious wedding destination
V
ery few destinations in the world are called ‘paradise on earth’. And that is exactly what Aamby Valley City is. Nestled at the foothills of the Sahyadri Mountains, Aamby Valley City is India’s first planned hill city, featuring lakes, mountains, waterfalls and thick jungles. Spread over an area of 10,600 acres, Aamby Valley City is located at a distance of 120 kilometres from Mumbai, 90 kilometres from Pune and 25 kilometres off Lonavala, a hill station near Mumbai. With four manmade lakes, 21 kilometres of waterfront, three natural waterfalls and the hills in the background, Aamby Valley City, besides a luxury holiday spot, is an ideal destination for outdoor wedding. Moreover, the city, in the cusp of pristine nature combines all-encompassing facets of
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luxurious living. While natural waterfalls and the lush green mountains render Aamby Valley City picturesque and elegant, cool and pleasant climate all through the year lends it an atmosphere to be a perfect destination for magnificent weddings and honeymoons. It offers several venues to choose from and perfect blend of all the ingredients required, to create the wedding of a lifetime. Its waterfront, for instance, is a perfect set up for a themebased wedding. You can have an Arabian nights wedding, along the water shore. If you desire, you can even have your wedding aboard a sailboat cruising between lush green mountains. Besides, the hill city has recreated the divine
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serenity and magic of the Banaras Ghats and getting married there would only serve to make the day more memorable. One can make the wedding as simple (a one-day affair) or as extravagant (a week of festivities), as one chooses. If one wants to go in for a week long wedding, one can entertain the guests with the adventure and water sports at Aamby Valley City. Also, it houses an open-air theatre, where one can enjoy entertaining performances under the starlit sky, at night. Going by the facilities available in this hill city, a wedding at Aamby Valley City will not only give you an
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album that your friends will leaf through with envy, but will also give you memorable moments that will make you smile in retrospect. After the wedding, one can turn the Aamby Valley City into a honeymoon spot, as well. You can dance at Mile High, take a horse ride down the vales, play table tennis indoors, shop at the malls, play hockey on the ice and dine at the restaurants. Mile High is a stylishly designed dance floor with state-of-theart light and sound system and an exclusive theme bar and lounge. Aamby Valley houses Mall Road, an ultra modern entertainment hub. Here, one
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can explore Sail Bridge, Fisherman’s Wharf, Lagoon Complex, Cabana, Ghat, Artisan’s village, Naga village, Watch tower, Campfire point, etc. At Fisherman’s Wharf, one can relish authentic Italian cuisine, at an open-desk Bistro and savour world cuisine, at the elegant fine-dining restaurant. For aquatic adventures, Lagoon Complex, which runs down to a wave pool, is the place. The Sunken bar is located nearby and one can enjoy cocktails, soon after the aquatic adventures. While Ghat is an open-air amphitheatre to enjoy homespun plays, folk tales and dance dramas, Artisan’s
village houses ethnic apparel stores, sculpture, art and jewellery shops, renaissance and ethnic furniture. If you want to celebrate a colourful cultural evening, head to Naga Village. Here you can see the Morangs (Naga homes) adorned with Naga symbols, Mithun and Dao. To add more spice to your honeymoon, visit Campfire Point and savour sumptuous dishes at the dinner buffet. Another place to add colour to your stay at Aamby Valley City is Pantoon Boats. Take a cruise, drop anchor in the middle of the lake and enjoy delightful delicacies. Among other facilities, it also has a state-of-the-art adventure
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NEW WAVE park in 19 latitude, which offers jungle trail, paintball shooting, jungle safari, remote controlled car racing, etc. When it comes to accommodation, Aamby Valley City offers Villas, Cabana, Spanish Cottage, Burmese Chalet and Aussie Chalet. Designed by international architects and designers, the villas here are architectural wonders. Crafted from premier seasoned timber, the Aussies chalets are exquisite single duplex suites, overlooking a shimmering clear water pond. The chalets offer breathtaking view of a historic Fort and a stunning panoramic view of the pristine surroundings. The Aussie chalets have an elegantly furnished living room, with attached bathroom on the ground level. First level has a plush master bedroom, with a Jacuzzi in the attached bathroom. Cabana is an exclusive lake-touching accommodation built on stilts, with a contoured sun deck offering fascinating view of the scenic splendour. Rooms here are done up in style and exude plush warmth. The Mini Club at Aamby Valley City, an exclusive club that is dedicated to fun, wellness and relaxation, is a must visit. It houses a spa, a Kerala ayurvedic centre and a salon called Vogue. Aamby Valley City is now synonymous with luxury holiday destination and no holiday is complete without the soothing touch of masseur’s magic fingers. So, make sure that you enjoy tissue massage, modelled on the lines of a Swedish massage, at its mini spa. Aamby Valley City also houses 18-hole flood lit golf
course, where best of the golfers have enjoyed playing and have certified it as one of the best golf courses in the world. Situated at 2,700 feet above the sea level, it is designed by David Hemstock and Associates (UK) and upgraded and remodelled for championships by PGA Great Britain and Ireland. It is the only planned luxury city to have a PGA accredited golfing academy. It is the only city in India to have a private airport, with amazing service of exclusive chopper/charter ride. The airport is equipped with highend all-weather landing system, to ensure optimised safety capable of take-off and landing under zero visibility conditions. The airport is connected with regular weekly non scheduled flights to and from Mumbai. As a holidaying destination, the spectacular landscape of Aamby Valley City is the perfect retreat for you and your loved ones, to reconnect and succumb to the healing touch of nature. The facilities that you can enjoy are endless.
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Ramoji Film Cit y
Wonder World
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A
one stop destination would be the apt term to describe the Ramoji Film City, one of the popular tourist destinations in Asia. Situated just 16 miles away from the historic city of Hyderabad, India, the world’s largest film studio is now a prominent spot for holidaying, honeymooning, wedding and corporate events. With spectacular gardens and fountains, luxury and business hotels, food courts, fun and play areas, and several rides, Ramoji Film City can offer you an unforgettable holiday experience. What's striking about the Ramoji Film City is the festival mood it sports. The land of movies, entertainment and magic is a dream place to visit, as it will take your holiday experience to a new level, writes our Director Vinu V Nair. He had a tour around the film city with V P Rao, Vice President, Ramoji Film City and V Srinivas Rao, Senior Manager - Publicity, Ramoji Film City. Its landscape features beautiful gardens, shimmering with exotic flora. Every garden, with its colourful magnificence and lush green tracts, is sure to cast a magical spell on you. The gardens here come with exotic fountains that are simply a treat to watch and experience. For nature lovers, Ramoji Film City has a gift in Shangri-La, its largest nursery that houses infinitive varieties of exotic flowers, plants and shrubs. Take a stroll around this veritable paradise replete with colour and aroma, to sooth your senses and soul. To make your holiday experience a unique one, this wonder land offers an incredible variety of fun attractions for both adults and children. To live your fantasies visit Fundustan, its fun and play area. There awaits Dadajijj, the amiable guardian angel of Fundustan, to welcome you to the magnificent realm of merriment, magic and marvel. The main attractions of this magic land include Thrillville (Adventure land), Wonderville (Toy land), Delhi Express (Train restaurant), Presto Magic (Toy shop), Borasura, Dadajinn’s Ark (Video games parlour), Timberland (Play zone), Ballerina Fount (Dancing fountain), Enthraller (Dome amphitheatre) and Faunadale (Animal kingdom). For the lovers of adventure and thrills, Thrillville is a must visit, as it offers exciting rides. Offerings at this adventure land comprise Ranger, Super Jet, Striking Cars, Break-Dancer and Twister. Enter this land to take a thrill trip of your life, on any of the offerings here. The next attraction is Wonderville and here you can find ‘Joyoli’ a magic bird that sprinkles ‘spirit of joy’. Its drop, if falls on one, is said to wash away one’s sorrow and restore happiness. Then, a visit to the Presto Magic is recommended, to shop for your child’s favourite toys. Another attraction at Fundustan is Borasura. It is one of its kind first ever themed walkthroughs in Asia. Explore the dark age at Borasura, for some spine-chilling experience. After the Borasura experience, make sure that you do not miss the Delhi Express, to enjoy delicious fare with choicest goodies. If your child is crazy about video games, take him/her to the Dadajinn’s Ark, after enjoying food in Delhi Express. You can relax, while your child immerses in some exciting video games. Fundustan also has a play zone in Timberland, offering unlimited entertainment for children. As you stroll through
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PICK OF THE MONTH the fun and play area, you are unlikely to miss out the Ballerina Fount/Dancing Fountain. It’s really an incredible spectacle. Both adults and children are sure to enjoy the fountain swinging and dancing to the tunes of mesmerising music. The next attraction is Enthraller, its Dome Amphitheatre. It is well designed for performing plays, dances, shows and other variety of interesting programmes that capture the fantasies of kids and families alike. To unleash your wild side with some real adventure and excitement, Fundustan, besides Thrillville, has arranged a venue in Rides to Thrill. Before setting out to explore the rest of Ramoji Film City, one should also visit Faunadale, its animal kingdom, and Corolla, valley of flowers, housed in Fundustan. Once you are in Ramoji Film City ensure that you get the taste of the Silver Screen Magic. Featuring over hundreds of spell binding movie sets, it’s the place for you to experience the glitz and glamour of the world cinema. The Silver Screen Magic houses landscapes and cityscapes ranging from the pastoral to the metropolitan, wild shrubbery to beautiful lawns, rivulets, singing fountains, shopping plazas, an airport terminal, a railway station, police outpost,
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churches, mosques, temples, chateaus, rural complexes, urban dwellings, gateways, etc. The more you explore the land of movies, the more you want to stay back here to have enough of this experience. Ramoji Film City is also a destination, where one can enjoy enough of entertainment shows. Visit Eureka as it is where the drama unfolds with pulsating entertainment and cultural shows. This place will also take you to the glorious past and you can have the rare experience of walking down a Mauryan lane, rugged town of American Wild West, besides enjoying the royal ambience of the Mughal era. Since Ramoji Film City is spread around more than 2000 acres, one won’t be able to stroll through it, at a stretch. Realising the need to offer comfort, Ramoji Film City has in it a couple of theme based restaurants. So, you can take a break from the action and enjoy tasty foods and beverages. You can pick a restaurant of your choice to have a dining experience that you desire. Your options include Alampana, which serves authentic Mughalai cuisine from the royal house of Awadh; Chanakya, which offers vegetarian cuisine (in Indian thali style); Gunsmoke, which supplies fast-food that captures the spirit and fire of the Wild West; Planet Food -
The Café, which provides a variety of fast-food, snacks and beverages and Ganga Jamuna, a purely vegetarian restaurant serving mouth watering South Indian thali. Ramoji Film City is also one of the unique honeymoon locations in India. It offers thematic honeymoon suites, with wonderful floral decoration and euphoria of aroma. Shed your inhibitions and use the Cinemagic – Videos hoot and Photo shoot facilities exclusively offered to the honeymooners. You can
choose your costumes, jewellery and a backdrop in the world’s largest film city. Return home with the DVD and you can play and replay the sweet memories anytime you want. Don’t limit your honeymoon experience at Cinemagic – Videos hoot and Photo shoot. Take a jolly ride in a specially designed bullock cart and bet, you will like it. Also, enjoy the floral fantasy arranged here with a wide pattern of flowers. The floral wonders will surely suit your
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mood and signal the moments of love and oneness. Honeymooners can also enjoy a soothing Kerala massage and exclusive herbal treatment. Besides a honeymoon location, Ramoji Film City is also a dream venue for wedding. Here, you can choose from a variety of magical venues for your wedding, each unique and breathtakingly beautiful. Your (wedding venue) choices include, Taj Mahal, Mayfair, Pool Side, Lake View Garden,
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Moghul Garden, Sun Fountain, Leg Garden, Dream Valley, Majestic Garden, Sierra Garden, Eureka Entry Plaza, Eureka Central Court, Princess Street and B S F Halls. Among other things, Ramoji Film City is also a perfect venue for hosting corporate events. From concept planning to flawless execution, the city takes care of everything to make corporate events a huge success. Its conference and event halls are equipped with the state-of-the-art facilities.
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On request, Ramoji Film City also incorporate theme-based entertainment and adventure dimensions to make the corporate get-togethers more interesting. Its conference halls come with a capacity to accommodate around 2000 people. It has an open-air venue that can accommodate over 5000 guests. If you are planning to stay back at the city for a couple of days, accommodation won’t be a problem, as it houses Hotel Sitara and Hotel Tara. Hotel Sitara, a luxury hotel
situated amongst the sprawling landscape of Ramoji Film City, houses 168 rooms in categories such as royal suites, theme suites and deluxe rooms. All the floors of this hotel have a different theme and state-of-the-art dĂŠcor, with two suites on each floor facing the poolside. Hotel Tara is a three star business hotel that comes with 126 rooms. It is one of the best hotels for leisure and entertainment travellers, who visit the Ramoji Film City.
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FACE TO FACE
Destinations can not be built in a day, especially the ones like Ramoji Film City. And, it stands to reason that only a man of brilliance can mastermind such world famous destinations. Ramoji Rao, the man behind Ramoji Film City, is a man of brilliance but he generally hides his business acumen, in his downto-earth character. He is humble and what’s striking about him is his unending quest to succeed in life. In an interview to Asian Traveller, Ramoji Rao, Chairman of Ramoji Group, talked about his ventures and relentless pursuit towards achieving his goals, passionately throughout and philosophically, at times. Edited Excerpts:
Man behind the land of a million dreams Would you please take us through your journey as an ordinary member of an agriculture family to the head of Ramoji Group? Though hailing from a village in Krishna district of Andhra Pradesh, I began my career at an advertising agency in Delhi. After working there for nearly five years, I returned to Hyderabad, to launch my own business. In 1962, I launched my first company, Margadarsi Chit Fund. Today, the company has attained an annual turnover of Rs 7,500 crore and it is ranked number one, in the
country. As years passed by, I ventured into media, food processing, film production and distribution, hospitality, tourism, etc. Ramoji Film City was launched in 1997. All these were not achieved in one day. It is a long saga that cannot be explained in a few words. What motivated you to build the business empire you own today? As you are aware, ambition is at the root of all the progress achieved by the humankind. Like everyone else, I too had my own ambitions in life. Opportunities
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unfurled one after the other, as I went about working on sectors of my liking, in accordance with my own understanding. It was, of course, a relentless pursuit. I never erected barriers around my thoughts. It was like an exploration, all the way. There was consistent hard work and steady adherence to values I held close to my heart. Ramoji Film City, among other things, is a hot spot for holidays, honeymoons, weddings and corporate events, etc. What went behind creating such multipurpose destination in a
single plot? The film city was originally meant to be a comprehensive film making facility. At other places, the film maker has to knock many doors, before he got his finished product. I wanted to provide everything to him, under one roof. Ramoji Film City was developed into an exhaustive facility for the film maker. He can come here with a script and leave with a print of a finished film. With the Film City emerging as the film makers’ paradise, there was growing pressure from public demanding entry. Then, we
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FACE TO FACE realised the film city’s potentiality for tourism. Tourism was subsequently developed into an independent vertical altogether. The idea of turning the film city into a wedding venue came from the visitors themselves. It has earned fame, as one of the most opulent and romantic wedding venues available in the country. Here at the Ramoji Film City, everything, from Sagi to Bidai, is taken care of, in an immaculately traditional manner. The guests attending weddings leave with a lingering feeling of ecstasy that could last a life time. Similarly, the extensive infrastructure available at the film city provided us with the scope to develop a very wide range of products. We are, today, in a position to make our customers feel very special, by offering them perfect hospitality, whether they are on a honeymoon or a holiday, whether they are attending a corporate event or an exhibition. The visitor is made to feel special every moment he spends at the film city. A visitor is sure to feel like visiting the place again and again, because of its ambience, creative man-power and infrastructure facilities. Guinness World Records has already certified Ramoji Film City as the world’s largest film studio. Do you still have any plans to take the city to next level? Please detail. As I have already narrated, the facilities are quite comprehensive. The amenities were created, keeping future requirements in mind. With the passage of time, upgradations may be required here and there. However, by and large, the film city has attained self-sufficiency. It can meet any requirement that
may arise in the future. In short, it has the capacity to upgrade itself, to the next level. Has the international community given its due acknowledgement to the wonder land you masterminded? How do you see the response from them? The response from the United States and European countries was quite enthusiastic, initially. However, the September 11 attack on the World Trade Centre has brought about a dramatic change in the international community’s thinking. After the attack, the US and other nations began discouraging their citizens from visiting Hyderabad, as they considered the city as a hub of terrorism. But, the fact is otherwise. Hyderabadis are renowned as most courteous and peace loving people. Their cuisine, hospitality and unique culture have earned global recognition. The cultural aura of the place has
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come to be called as the Hyderabadi Tehzib. Besides, Hyderabad is a historic place, with numerous places worthy of visiting, at least once in a life time. I am glad that as a major tourist attraction, Ramoji Film City has joined the ranks of those historic places. If one says that Ramoji Film City is a destination beyond all seasons, how will you react to it? What makes this land of a million dreams, a destination beyond all seasons? The film city has been groomed to be a place that can be visited any time and in any season. Hyderabad’s climate is always very balanced. There are no extreme fluctuations in temperatures or other climatic conditions. That is why we, at the film city, have steady flow of visitors throughout the year. According to you what all things helped Ramoji Film City to find a place on the global map?
The very word ‘film’ has the capacity, to cast a magical spell. It has been proven over the decades that anything may change, but the people’s fascination for films will not. It is an attraction that will never fade. So, the popularity of Ramoji Film City as the world’s largest film city reached every place that is inhabited by film lovers. That is why we have a considerable chunk of foreign tourists regularly visiting the film city. There could be a multitude of factors behind the place’s attraction. One should visit the place to understand that. How will you describe your journey so far? How satisfied are you with your achievements? I strongly believe that success is a journey, not a destination. I am both a satisfied and not so satisfied person. I am satisfied with what has been achieved. I am not satisfied with that which could not be or which is yet to be achieved.
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FACE TO FACE
Bhutan, popularly known as the land of the thunder dragon kingdom, is a trekker’s paradise and an environmentalist’s dream. With 72 per cent of the country under forest cover, Bhutan’s pristine ecology is home to rare and endangered flora and fauna. Bhutan can largely be considered as a country that is slowly opening up to the modern world. Those fortunate enough to visit Bhutan describe it as a unique, deeply spiritual and mystical experience. In an interview to Asian Traveller, Rajiv Mehrotra, Regional Head, Marketing (India, Bangladesh and Maldives), Tourism Council of Bhutan, talked about steps taken by its government to propel its tourism sector by attracting more arrivals to the country. Edited Excerpts:
“Bhutan is a high-end luxury destination” Bhutan has always been a fascinating destination in Asia. According to you, what
unexplored country in Asia? For this democratic government, tourism is
We are nowadays making all the efforts to woo Indian travellers because India is a
has this virgin country got to offer to the
a very key focus sector and especially when
country with which Bhutan enjoys a very
travellers? What are its main attractions?
our honourable Prime Minister is the Chairman
cordial relationship. Moreover, Indian and
of the Tourism Council of Bhutan. Under his
Bhutanese governments have been working
that case feature Bhutan as an attractive
regime, we have seen good growth, or say,
very closely over the years, to strengthen
destination for some kind of activities.
well planned growth. We always maintain that
bilateral relations between the countries.
However, Bhutan could very well be described
Bhutan is a high end destination and therefore
Since Bhutan is a destination beyond
as a high-end luxury destination, suitable
a lot of initiatives have been carried out under
seasons, Indian travelers could find much
especially for seasonal travellers. Bhutan is
his leadership, to develop this sector and we
more facilities and involvement.
also a place for those who need some kind of
have received positive results out of it. I once
What are your plans to lure more tourists to
space in their travel, beautifully unspoiled
again stress that tourism is one of the focus
your country?
nature to unwind themselves and high-end
sectors of the government.
facilities, while they are staying there.
When it comes to attracting tourists to your
operators and unlike other tourism boards, we
Despite its astounding and idyllic landscapes,
country, what are the main challenges you
have been very focused in executing our
exotic architecture and hospitable population,
face?
initiatives. When it comes to regional market,
First of all, we do not like to promote or in
Bhutan remains largely unexplored country in
Let me tell you about the steps we are
Well, we have worked very closely with tour
our strategy is to work one to one with large
Asia. If you don’t mind, would you give details
taking to draw more arrivals to the country,
tour operators and global companies, who are
of the important and upcoming markets for
rather the challenges we face. At the moment,
present in India, in order to do joint marketing
Bhutan?
we are trying to expand our air connectivity to
campaigns. The government is also making its
all possible source markets. Europe is, at the
efforts and financial contributions towards
we are seeing increased arrivals from
moment, well connected through Thailand.
doing specific promotions like building micro
countries such as US, UK and Japan. I must
India is a focus market for us and we always
sites on their domains and e-mail campaigns,
say Bhutan has successfully done well with
have worked together with the UK to connect
to highlight database of such companies.
these countries.
all the possible points in India. We already
As far as our main markets are concerned,
We are also doing road shows in India and
have connectivity from Delhi, Kolkatta,
participating in all trade shows, in a much
also witnessing very positive results from
Bagdogra, Guwahati and Bodhgaya. The
bigger and better way than we were doing
emerging markets like Russia and Switzerland.
special connectivity has been increased by the
earlier. One of the reasons for participating in
Now, we are in the process of exploring Spain
Bhutan and we have seen very positive growth
IITM is to focus on and reach out to sudden
and Italy, as well.
in passenger, from all these regional markets
markets, especially when we are looking at
What all measures have the government
as well.
connectivity happening from both Mumbai and
initiated to draw more tourists to this largely
How important is Indian market for Bhutan?
Bengaluru, very soon.
Going by the number of arrivals, we are
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KARNATAKA TRAVELLER
Co org Coorg
The naked nature
Travel along with Jagadeesh Narayan N. to explore the hilly beauty of Coorg
I
f you haven’t ever been to a hill station, Kodagu (Coorg) is one of the best places to make your trip, to be with the nature. Situated at 4000 ft above the sea level, Coorg is the most beautiful hill station in Karnataka. This thickly wooded grandeur on the Western Ghats has a lot to offer to the tourists, including misty hills, lush forest, ravines, fast flowing streams,
lofty peaks, awe inspiring spurs, acres and acres of tea and coffee plantation, orange groves and undulating streets. The term Coorg or Kodagu means ‘dense forest on steep hill’. Commonly known by the epithet ‘the Scotland of India’, this hill station is situated 252 kms from Bangalore. Breathtaking views are what make Coorg an unforgettable
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holiday destination. Set amidst verdant valleys, imposing mountains and teak forest woods, Coorg is one of the must visit hill stations on the Western Ghats, says a set of tour operators. Coorg is one of the smallest districts in Karnataka, comprising three taluks – Madikeri, Somwarpet and Virajpet. Madikeri, a hill station, is the headquarters of
Coorg. If you ever visit the place, don’t miss its major peaks – Tadiandamol, Brahmagiri and Pushpagiri Hills. The largest river in Kodagu district is the Cauvery, with its principal tributaries Hemavathi, Lakshmanathirtha, Kakkabbe and Harangi or Survanavati, it flows towards east direction. Besides, Coorg is a veritable botanists’ paradise, with more
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KARNATAKA TRAVELLER than 1,300 species. From the deep reds and dark browns of the shola forests, to the fluorescent green of paddy fields, shimmering blue of summer skies and colourful costumes and bright faces, Kodagu is a splash of colours. Forests, plantations and paddy fields give the feeling that nothing can be richer than the soil of Kodagu. Coorg is bordered by ‘dakshina’ Kannada to the northwest, Hassan district to the north, Mysore district to the east, Kannur district of Kerala state to the southwest and Wayanad district of Kerala to the south. If you examine the demographics of the Kodagu district, you will be astonished by the various communities live in it Kodava, Tulu, Gowda and Moplah. However, it is widely considered as a home to Kodava community, as they are the largest community, both economically and politically. The economy depends on agriculture, coffee plantations, forestry and tourism. The terms Kodagu in Kannada and Coorg in English have their origin in
the local word Kodavu and the people Kodava. The name Kodavu is known to have been derived from ‘Kodimalenad’, which means higher forest land. The term Kodava means the people blessed by Godmother Kaveri (‘kod’ means give, bless and ‘avva’ means mother Kaveri). The origin of the Kodava dynasty can be traced back to the puranas. According to puranas, Kodava is the redefined name of Krodhadesa, which means ‘Land of Anger’, a place said to have been inhabited by the Kodava tribe. However, some believe that this hill station has been named after the river Kaveri (also spelt as Cauvery). Then, there are a few, who think that the name originated from the Kannada word kudu, which means dense forest on a steep hill. The history of Coorg dates back to as early as 888 AD. The kingdom was ruled by many dynasties, starting with Gangas of Talakad, Kadambas, Cholas, Kongalvas, Changalvas, Hoysalas and Nayakas. Information on its early history has come primarily from the various inscriptions, on stone and copper plates of
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ninth and tenth centuries. The Haleri dynasty was the last noteworthy dynasty, to rule the whole of Kodagu. It came into power around mid 16th century and was founded by a young prince from Ikkeri. It was the first dynasty in the history of Kodagu, which spanned 234 years and ruled
the entire region. Coorg is an ideal place for outdoor activities, food and shopping. Besides, Coorg is famous as a trekking destination and an important destination in Karnataka’s tourism map. Coorg has many verdant trekking routes, in the midst of forests and hills and the best time for trekking here spans from October to February. Some of the known trails are in the hills of Brahmagiri, where you could trek your way to the Irrupa falls. You could also consider trekking to Pushpagiri, the second highest peak in Kodagu and Tadiandamol (it’s the highest peak in the region). Another place of interest is Valanoor, backwater of the river Kaveri. This is a place where fishing lovers from all over India usually flock to.
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KARNATAKA TRAVELLER Tourists can try and catch the famous ‘mahaseer’ and the best season for fishing is from October to May. Then, there are a few good camps around Coorg that offer rafting down the Kaveri river. For some fast paced action, visit the upper Barapole river, to the south of Coorg, in Brahmagiri. The best time for rafting is midJune to mid-September. To top it all, Coorgi cuisine is famous and unique, especially for non-vegetarians, as it is based on game meats, pork and other delicious ingredients. Popular dishes are ‘pandhi’ (pork), ‘koli’ (chicken) and ‘yarchi’ (lamb), spiced with pepper, ‘kokum’, ‘bamboo shoot’ and red chilly.
Among other things, Coorg is a land of fairs and festivals as well. You can schedule your visit to coincide with one of the colourful festivals in the region. The festivals of the Kodava community are largely themed around agriculture and military activities. Keilpoldu, the festival of arms, is held in the month of September. During this festival, the weapons and arms are polished and worshipped, before reuse. Cauvery Shankaramana is another major festival and it is based around the river Cauvery. It is believed that on this auspicious day, at a predetermined time, Kaveri springs like a fountain in a small tank in Talacauvery, fills
Also, it is worth trying items such as ‘bembla curry’, ‘kadumbuttu’ (rice dumplings), ‘noolputu’ (rice noodles), ‘voti’ (rice rotti) and coffee. If you are shopping freak, it is one of the places to unleash yourself. Some of the popular items to buy are coffee, honey, cardamom, pepper, pineapple, ‘papads’ and oranges. Besides, Coorgi silk sarees are very famous and as the natives have a different way of wearing them, one can utilise the opportunity to master the art of wearing it in a ‘desi’ style.
a bigger holy tank, grows from a trickle to a torrent and flows down the hills, to the plains. People throng to Talacauvery on this holy day, to take a dip in the tank. This festival is being held in October. The ’Puthar’ festival is celebrated in November or December. This is the traditional harvest festival of Kodagu and famous for the folk songs and dances that are displayed. Each village puts on show, featuring best of its sportsmanship and dances and annual fairs are held at the temples.
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FACE TO FACE
“We are pinning hope on brand US campaign” The economic downturn in 2008 has done more damage to the US, than any other countries. Now, another disaster has struck the country in the form of downward growth. To get firsthand information on the impact of the current economic crisis on the US travel and tourism sector, Asian Traveller interviewed Joseph A Mclnerney, President and Chief Executive Officer of the American Hotel and Lodging Association (AHLA), the sole national association in the US, representing all sectors and stakeholders in the lodging industry. Edited Excerpts: The US economy is going through a crisis and
It is true! We are trying to address this
If implemented, this will be a great boon
there are fears of another impending
issue. While the tour-travel industry globally
for relatives and friends of the Indians working
slowdown. How has this affected the travel
grew 37 per cent in the last decade, to over 60
in the US, to visit and see our country.
and tourism sector in the country?
million international travellers annually, the US
According to the latest US census, Asian
had zero growth during the period. However,
Indians in the US were 2,843,391 in 2010, a
estimated to generate direct revenues of $122
with the first-ever travel promotion and
69.37 per cent increase from the figures of
billion. The country has over 50,000 hotels
communications programme (campaign) in
2000. Per trip, each visitor is expected to
and lodges, with 4.9 million rooms. With the
our history, we are eyeing to attract visitors to
shop, dine and spend at least $4000 in the US.
fears of another economic downturn, the US
brand ‘the USA’, as a travel destination. The
Hence, the more the visitors to the US, the
citizens are putting off their leisure travel
Corporation for Travel Promotion (CTP), a
more we will benefit from it, as they will spend
plans, corporate houses are cutting down
partnership between the travel industry and
here on lodging, shopping and other
travel trips and moreover arrivals to the US
the federal government, is entrusted with the
recreation. We are also talking to the
have come down considerably. The occupancy
task of the ‘Brand USA’ campaign with an
hoteliers, travel and tourism industry in India,
rate last year was less than 60 per cent.
expenditure of $185 million. CTP was formed
to allow more bilateral travel.
last year, for this purpose. This campaign will
Will the downward growth of the US and
slump, major new hotel projects are also not
mainly focus on high growing economies like
Europe cause the US-based international
coming up. Besides, new capacity addition is
India, Brazil, China, Russia and South Africa.
hotel chains to invest in countries like India,
pegged only at 0.8 per cent in 2011 and 0.5
The campaign is likely to be launched by the
which is expected to maintain a GDP growth
per cent in 2012. However, the capacity
end of this year. On August 22, the CTP
of over 8-12 per cent in the coming years?
addition was about 2.9 per cent and 2.3 per
appointed JWT as the global marketing
cent, respectively in the previous two years,
agency to roll out the campaign.
will be a main destination for investment and
largely due to the revival of some of the earlier
But, still there are lots of restrictions while
the US corporations are expected to continue
projects. Many corporate houses now prefer
travelling to the US - like stringent security
investments in these countries. Now, almost
conferencing at cheaper downtown
and difficulty in getting visas. Has US taken
all major hotel chains in the world are present
destinations, than luxury conferencing options
any measure to address such issues?
in India. I am a frequent visitor to India and the
The hospitality industry in the US is
As the industry fears another economic
at big cities in the US.
As I said earlier, the emerging economies
change which I see here is the growth of tier-II
The travel and tourism industry in the US is
Data shows that visitors to the US are also
in discussions with the US Department of
and tier-III cities. Big towers and multiplexes
slowing down. The US welcomed 2.4 million
State and security agencies, to facilitate easy
are coming up in Mumbai, Delhi and places
fewer overseas visitors in 2009, than in 2000.
tourist visas, at least for the focus countries
like Pune. Even the reputed big chains of the
The failure to keep pace with the growth in
like India, Brazil, China, Russia and South
US are looking at these destinations and have
international long-haul travel since 2000 has
Africa. We are expecting online processing
announced several projects. I don’t want to
cost the US economy an estimated $509
and more visa facilitation centres in these
put a number to it. I am sure, they will
billion in total spending and $32 billion in
focus countries, within the next two years, as
continue to invest in India, irrespective of the
direct tax receipts, according to the US Travel
part of easing of the norms.
slowdown or downturn, since the country is
Association. Your comments:
How will this benefit travellers from India?
growing at a very fast pace.
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TAMIL NADU TRAVELLER
Yelagiri Hills
Nature’s handiwork Dr. S Bakthavatchalam
I
f what you want is a relaxed weekend at the comfort of exuberant greenery, Yelagiri hills, one of
the popular hill stations in Tamil Nadu, is a right choice to spend quality time with your family. Located at an altitude of 1,410 meters above mean sea level, this beautiful hill station is situated amidst four mountains, which are well-known for salubrious climate throughout the year. To reach this ideal getaway from the hustle, bustle and madness of the city, you have to travel the winding ghat road that has 14 hairpin bends. However, the journey should surely be exciting, as the hairpin bends offer panoramic, breathtaking views of the hills and its surroundings. According to several travelPARTNER COUNTRY HOSPITALITY PARTNER
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here is largely tribal people, engaged in agriculture, horticulture and forestry, etc. The customs, habits and the structure of the houses of these tribes are very unique and a visit to this destination can well be an opportunity to experience an entirely diverse culture. In early days, this hill station was not as developed as the other hill stations. Realising the potential of this green spot, it was the district administration which took up the task of developing this rustic beauty into a tourist destination by promoting adventure sports, such as paragliding and rock climbing. Now, Yelagiri is one of the famous places for trekkers in India. The main attractions of Yelagiri hills include Punganoor artificial lake-cumpark, Jalagamparai waterfalls, Swamimalai Hills, Telescope Kms, this emerging tourist observatory and YMCA camp spot in Vellore district of Tamil Nadu is surrounded by centre. Among these, perhaps the most popular spot is the orchards, rose gardens and green valleys. Situated off the picturesque Punganoor Vaniyambadi-Tirupattur road, artificial lake, which spreads around an area of 57 sq Yelagiri comprises 14 small meters. This artificial lake also hamlets and the population lers, seventh bend is significant, as it offers the view of the slopes of the mountain and the green forests that carpet the hill. Spread across around 30
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TAMIL NADU TRAVELLER sports a park adjoining it and is an ideal outing place to take your kids along, who like to play around. One can take a short walk along the lake side or enjoy a boat ride. You can either take a pedalling or a rowing boat, as the Elagiri Hills Development and Tourism Promotion Society, which runs the boat club, offers these two choices. There is a newly laid floricultural garden with a pathway along the lakes’ bund, offering a panoramic view of the lake, on one side and the garden, on the other. There is a bridge connecting the two ends. To enter the park and lake, one has to pay an entry fee but it’s worth it, simply because it helps pass time and kids can have fun too. A short distance away from the lake, on the other side of the hill, is Jalagambarai waterfalls, another tourist attraction. It’s the river Attaru, which flows through the Yelagiri hills, plummets down to form a highly captivating waterfall. To reach the spot, one has to go all the way down the hill and then climb the hill, on the other side. It’s perhaps the only distant spot from the main town that is fairly frequented by visitors to the hills. If you are planning to visit this spot, make sure you are well-stocked with water and food. The waterfalls are, however, dependent on
substantial rainfall. If you are more passionate about trekking, Swamimalai, possibly the highest peak in the area, is the best bet. Here, one can take an easy trek along a muddy path, starting from the eastern side of the lake, which is about three Kms long and pretty scenic. Most visitors to Yelagiri hills, who have trekking in mind, climb up Swamimalai. The trek will lead one to a small peak, from where one can have an enchanting view of the entire valley. This hill station also features a telescope house, from where one can capture a good view of distant places. Whereas, YMCA camp centre is a non-profit organisation that offers accommodation (both dormitory and other types), trekking and other camp activities. In every May and June, Yelagiri hills turns into a festive mood. It’s the time of the year when summer festivals are held here, with the objective of showcasing customs, culture and traditions of the native tribal communities. This is the only time of the year, when its atmosphere becomes vociferous. Otherwise, it offers a quiet environment, where the only sound you hear is the chirping of birds. The climate is rather moderate and an evening breeze can get a bit chilly, as the hills have a fair
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amount of forest cover. In short, at Yelagiri, you can do just about anything you want. You could trek up
those rugged hillocks, or take long walks through narrow roads, or explore the green surroundings of this rural retreat. Also, you can head to the lake nearby for some leisure boating, or just squat on a bench in the adjoining children’s park and watch the kids play. What makes Yelagiri hills an ideal weekend getaway is it’s proximity from Bangalore or Chennai. The nearest airport to Yelagiri is the Bangalore International Airport, which handles both domestic and international flights. From the airport, one can hire a taxi to Yelagiri. If you are coming by train from Bangalore, Chennai or Coimbatore, get down at Jolarpettai junction. It is the nearest railhead to Yelagiri.
The main attractions of Yelagiri hills include Punganoor artificial lake-cum-park, Jalagamparai waterfalls and Swamimalai Hills. Situated off the Vaniyambadi-Tirupattur road, this picturesque hill station is one of the famous places for trekkers in India. If you are passionate about trekking, Swamimalai, possibly the highest peak in the area, is the best bet
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FACE TO FACE It’s not where you build your career, but how you build your career that matters, is the message one will get, if one analysis the career growth path of Arya Srini Rao, General Manager, Matthan Hotel. He is the one, who built his career in and around Bangalore, his regional place. He is outspoken and has a clear vision about what he wants to achieve and where he wants to see himself, in the future. In an interview to Asian Traveller, he shared several interesting things about his professional and personal life. Edited Excerpts.
A modest regional product How does it feel like being part of
I want to develop Matthan as a
opportunity to
the hospitality industry? How
brand in the hospitality industry.
serve
glamorous is this profession, as
This is our first property from the
distinguished
one may see it from outside?
group and we have sound plans
guests like Azim
for expanding our business in
Premji, Capt.
during my graduation years that I
Bangalore as well as in rest of the
Gopinath,
developed the desire to work in
country. Matthan will be one of the
world’s No 1 DJ
hospitality industry. Soon after
desired destinations in Bangalore,
Armin and
graduation, I applied for a job with
for the business as well as leisure
personalities
Taj Group of Hotels and to my
travellers. We are in the heart of
from Film
surprise I was instantly hired. My
the city and our services alone will
industry as well
journey in hospitality industry,
sell our brand.
as various
thus, began with Taj Group. To be
What is your take on the
political leaders.
frank, I joined the industry with a
importance of a hotel, in
Then, I can’t
lot of aspirations, most of which
developing a nation?
forget the
I don’t know how but it was
evolved from the glamorous part
Hotel plays a vital role in
moment when
of the job I observed as an
developing a destination. If there
Vajapayeeji
outsider. Once I became part of
is a good hotel, then the high net
spoke to me and
the industry, I realised that the
worth individuals would visit the
appreciated my services. I felt like
real world wasn’t that glamorous
place, as they find it comfortable
I was in the seventh heaven.
I am a gadget freak and always
but I accepted facts as facts,
to stay in a decent place. The
Where would you like to see
keep myself updated with the
without regretting my decision
infrastructure development of a
yourself, in the long run?
latest gadgets available. I love
and I learnt that things were
place depends on a good hotel
almost same in other industries.
around the vicinity. There is no
five star hotels in the capacity of
very rarely. I like historical facts
Looking back, I am happy that I
meaning in developing a place as
COO or MD.
and very fond of reading history of
could meet the elite clientele and
a tourist or industrial area, if there
How do you see the growth
different countries. The history of
serve them, a unique opportunity
is no place to stay for the visitor.
prospects of hospitality industry?
India makes me feel proud, as I
indeed!
Hotels provide good hospitality
Why do you stick to Bangalore
and will enhance the
does not have an end. The
riches and warriors.
alone?
infrastructure, with its presence.
demand for hospitality industry
Where do you like to spend your
If we ask you to recall the
increases, as the society and
free time, enjoying beauty of
the hospitality industry, I have
proudest and unforgettable
economy progresses. This is one
nature?
been working only in Bangalore.
moments in your life, what would
of the best industries to work with,
The simplest reason is that I am
be them?
as it teaches you discipline,
Ooty, as I like the climate and
oneness and a lot of
greenery around. Whenever I get
Since I started my journey in
principally from Bangalore and I
Once I met former Prime
I may be heading a chain of
It is an ever green industry. It
I like to travel, in my free time.
watching good movies but I party
was born in India, the land of
My favourite destination is
like to be in Bangalore. It is a
Minister Shri Atal Bihari
professionalism.
time, I make sure to visit Ooty, to
beautiful place and people are of
Vajapayee, when he visited
Let’s forget the professional life.
enjoy the nature. When it comes
cosmopolitan culture. People care
Bangalore to attend a conference
Tell us about your family?
to international destination, I like
for others and are ready to help
and I had an opportunity to serve
each other.
him, then. I consider this as the
my wife, our kid and mother.
serene nature and is a place
What are your plans for Matthan
proudest moment in my
Take us through your hobbies and
where one can explore several
Hotel?
professional life. I also have had
other interests.
historical facts.
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It’s small but sweet! I live with
to visit Sri Lanka. It’s blessed with
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ASIAN TRAVELLER SEPTEMBER 2011
FACE TO FACE
Creators of new horizons People rarely dare to trudge offbeat paths. While some take this route to give it a try, some travel this path, with a determination to make it a successful journey. Vedic Village, which launched the concept of a luxurious resort featuring the ambience of a village, can well be grouped in the latter list. It wanted to build a unique medical spa and taste success. And now, it has a reason to smile. In an interview to Asian Traveller, Michael J Robertson, CEO, Best Western Premier Vedic Village Spa Resort, Kolkata, deliberated at length on its journey so far, future plans and the importance of resorts such as Vedic Village in building destinations. Edited Excerpts. Why did you go in for a Vedic village resort and not an ordinary luxurious resort? How befitting is the name of your resort and its atmosphere? It was our intention to build a unique medical spa resort from the very outset which blended the ancient natural therapies of ayurveda and naturopathy. This had not been done in India or anywhere else before and the plan was to build it in idyllic surroundings of lakes and organic farmlands, to capture the beauty of the Bengal country side. We designed the plan in a way to accommodate every luxury possible and did take special care to involve local artisans in developing structures, to capture the flavour of local India. The resort abounds with local arts and crafts and in a way it can be considered as preservation of age old customs, in a five start resort luxury. We believe we have achieved our goal by
providing a luxurious village atmosphere, combining elements of a village and a luxury resort in a balanced way. What’s special about your resort? If you don’t mind, provide a clear picture of the offerings at Vedic Village. Vedic Village has tied up with the Best Western Premier brand, to ensure the finest standards in quality and service. Best Western is the largest hotel chain in the world, with 4000 properties in its fold. However, the Premier
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segment has just 120 properties and the Vedic Village was one of the first in India to be branded to the exacting quality standards. Since ours is a medical spa resort, which offers n site ayurveda, naturopathy and homeopathy therapies, the property figures in the list of highly ranked spa resorts, in the world. Visitors from all over the world can enjoy the benefits of advice of our highly qualified doctors and experienced therapists. At the same time, there is a lot to
experience from the local flavour of an organic environment. Butterflies and rare birds can be found throughout the 100 acre campus, which abounds with lakes and organic farmlands. It can well be considered as a short getaway from the hectic city life, located just 25 minutes away from the Kolkata International Airport. How successful has been Vedic Village since its launch in 2003? Would you take us through its growth path, over the years? The property has been extremely successful, since its opening in 2003. The surprise is that it has also been used as a conference destination by the MICE segment, which finds the property an ideal getaway. We also enjoy tremendous support from the travel agent fraternity, who recommend the property to international clientele. As a destination close to the international airport, the
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FACE TO FACE property is also being used as a transit getaway en-route to Darjeeling, Sikkim and the North East. The property has added rooms to its inventory and has eight conference halls, with some of the finest facilities on offer. We learnt that you usually give a lot of importance to ayurvedic therapies. Do you have a solid reason to travel the ayurvedic route? If yes, detail. Ayurveda is the core of our Sanjeeva Medical Spa and we have a doctor of medicine (MD) in Panchakrama, as our director of medicine to focus the medical direction of our property. We have 14 therapy rooms and a team of doctors and therapists to support the facility, which is one of the largest in India. We have applied for an NABH accreditation from the Quality Council of India, as a Wellness Centre. Vedic Village is the first spa resort in the country to take such an initiative and it speaks volumes for our commitment to quality medical service in this sector. We believe that in the years to come the credibility of facilities such as ours will rest on the accreditation of facilities. How are you planning to position Vedic village in the market? Vedic Village is positioned as an international medical spa resort and is presented as such in the international market. We exhibit at the World Travel Market and ITB Berlin every year and these events have helped us to build a substantial client base. According to you, how important a role can ‘ayurveda’ play in promoting tourism in India? The example of Kerala is
there for all to see. The core of the success of Kerala market is ayurveda. However, there is substantial scope to develop it in other parts of the country. Ayurveda is a national asset and must be given every importance in development of tourism. As of now, how do you see the demand for ayurvedic therapies among domestic and foreign travellers? What are your plans to cash in on this growing opportunity? There is a tremendous demand for ayurvedic therapies, both nationally and internationally. However, there are concerns about quality and authentic treatments. As the business grows, quality will play a key role in administering treatment and therefore there is a need to develop quality standards under NABH and the Quality Council of India. We will expand our business, as the health tourism market worldwide is growing by leaps and bounds. We are tying up with a group in Bangladesh to take ayurveda to that country for the first time. There are opportunities in other parts of the world, where the science is very well respected – Germany, Italy, Denmark, UK, etc., are just a few places to mention. Do you think, there is a need to spread awareness on what ayurvedic therapies can do to infuse new energy into an individual’s life? Will you ever take up a campaign to this effect? Certainly! We are continuously doing so at fairs and conferences throughout the world. Would you brief us about the expansion plans? Where are your upcoming properties located?
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As mentioned, we are opening a centre in Bangladesh and another international spa resort in Neemrana, positioned between Delhi and Jaipur. This will be a state-of-the-art property. Do you think, in the near future, resorts such as Vedic Village will play an important role in developing a destination? If yes, please
detail the reasons. We have had many requests for expanding our base. However, we need to proceed in an organised way, so that we do not overstretch ourselves. Trained manpower, who work according to exacting quality standards, is the key to success and this takes time to develop. Therefore, we will move step by step.
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FACE TO FACE
An artist’s voyage How do you see yourself as an artist? It is my inborn talent. I started my career
regard to painting. But, I strongly feel learning the different techniques of art will give
as an artist, without learning any of its basics.
fineness to one's works.
So, I firmly believe that it is a God gifted talent
Looking back, how do you see the support
and I do want to make the best use of it. More-
extended to you by the family? Also, take us
over, it has always been a passion for me.
through your life as an artist.
How far has extensive travelling helped your growth, as an artist? From my childhood, I was always
Yes, I received the full backing of my husband, brothers and friends. I would indeed say I was blessed enough to enjoy their
interested in drawing. I used to draw sketches,
complete support. I had set up an organisation
but I never got an opportunity to go for any
called Shristy in Chennai, with a vision to build
formal training. I got married to an army
a platform for other artists and it had 10 artists
officer and then, travelling became part and
from economically backward families. I left my
parcel of my life. I had enough opportunity to
passion behind, as situations forced me to
experience the outside world. When I moved
take a break from a full-time painting career
with my husband to Chandigarh, a neighbor,
and look towards new business ventures. This
who was an artist, inspired me. I wanted to do
necessitated extensive travelling within and
something constructive and painting was my
outside the country. I had opportunities to see
natural option. I started by reading books to
places that even very few seasoned travelers
enhance the knowledge of different
have seen. It provided an opportunity to
techniques. I learnt a lot of traditional art,
interact with different people and to
including Tanjore paintings, kangravali
understand different cultures. Such
paintings from different places, with the
experiences always provide nourishment for
intention of sharpening the God gifted talent.
open thinking and creativity.
As a painter, which is your favourite area?
When at work, I hardly get time to paint but
Were you focusing on this area, from the
I ensure that I make small sketches as and
beginning of your career, as an artist?
when certain ideas strike me and convert them
In fact, I started with literally copying Raja
into full-fledged paintings later, usually when I
Ravi Varma's paintings and old European
shut myself behind the doors for painting.
master's paintings. My journey of self
Do you mind sharing with us your future
discovery began 12 years ago, when I started
plans?
practicing Reiki, as a part of my life. With the
Of course not! It is my dream to conduct
help of mentors, gurus and books, I began to
an international event that creates awareness
assimilate the visions, sensations, insights
of our rich arts and cultural heritage. I can't
and emotions. Slowly, I started developing my
reveal more about it, as it is at the planning
own works. I was inspired by fiery colors used
stage. But, I am preparing myself for this big
in our tantric drawings and by metaphysics
event in my life. In fact, I have requested the
and the energy that they carry. I am
Chief Editor of Asian traveller to be a part of
passionate about geometric shapes.
this event, to make my dream project into
Have you faced any challenges, while shaping
reality.
yourself as an artist?
Have you exhibited your works, earlier?
In general, I have not faced any problems
Yes, I have had exhibited my works at
or challenges so far and I was lucky enough to
group exhibitions held in Dubai, Shillong
make good friends from different walks of life,
(Meghalaya), Chennai, etc. However, I haven't
who often appreciated my works. When I was
yet held an individual exhibition. But, I am
in Shilong, I met some artists from
planning for my solo exhibition in the near
Santiniketan, who happened to see my painting exhibition in Shillong. They advised
future. Please give us a picture of your family.
me to learn the basics of art. So, I attended a
I am married to an army officer, who is still
small course designed especially for children
in service. We have two sons - the elder one is
in the age group of 10-11, to learn the basics.
doing his graduation in law, while the younger
This is the only training that I have got, with
one is in eleventh standard.
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Travelling can do wonders. The life of artist Beena Unnikrishnan corroborates this claim. She would not have turned to painting, had extensive travelling not been a part of her life. In an interview to Asian Traveller, Beena Unnikrishnan detailed at length the influence of travel in her professional life as an artist, the support she received and her future plans. Edited Excerpts:
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A cricket tour to Kangaroos’ land Australia has many moods, but when it hosts cricket matches, what is striking about the continent is the festive mood it sports. So, irrespective of one’s interest in cricket, one can plan a trip to explore the world’s sixth largest country by total area, while it breathes cricket
C
ome December, the whole of Australia will be bustling with action, as the continent gears up to welcome two of the best teams in world cricket – India and Sri Lanka. If you would like to enjoy power-packed international cricket, while exploring its scenic landscape, fly to the land of Kangaroos. Starting from December 26, 2011 to March 08, 2012, Australia will see four tests, two T20 internationals and ODI tri-series, with at least 14 encounters. The cricket extravaganza unfolds in the famed Australian cities like Melbourne, Sydney, Canberra, Brisbane, Adelaide, Hobart
and Perth. For travellers, it’s the right time to plan your trip, to enjoy Australia’s great weather and warm hospitality, while witnessing pulsating cricket encounters. “This is a fabulous opportunity for cricket enthusiasts, to explore the best city experiences that Australia has to offer. To make your holiday even more special, Tourism Australia together with its Aussie Specialist Programme agents will soon be launching special packages. This will not only be a perfect time for leisure travellers, but also for corporate houses to take their employees to
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Australia, on an incentive trip,” says, Nishant Kashikar, Country Manager – India, Tourism Australia. If you fly to the continent by the end of December, make sure that you are in Sydney to celebrate new year’s eve, watching the harbour of light parade that has become synonymous with Sydney harbour. If you plan to stay longer in Australia, you can witness the Sydney Festival (which falls from January 729, 2012) and it’s gonna be a feast of music, dance and visual spectacle on the streets and in the parks, of central Sydney. For cricket lovers, the
International Cricket Hall of Fame in Bowral, Sir Don Bradman’s hometown, is a must visit. The museum provides an exciting and interactive experience, with rare film footage, photos and wonderful memorabilia. With world-famous harbour and more than 70 sparkling beaches, Sydney will surely lure you and you can enjoy fabulous food, festivals and 24x7 fun. After the new year’s eve in Sydney, if you want to soak up culture, hit the sporting grounds, taste the dynamic food and wine, pack yourself to Melbourne. Once you are in
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DOWN UNDER Melbourne, dance till dawn (after food and wine) or wander the parks and leafy boulevards. Visit Brunswick Street or up market Chapel Street for shopping and you will find enough stuff to fill your shopping baskets. Wine lovers can take a tour to Yarra Valley and visit some of the most premium wineries in Australia. The Philip Island Penguin parade is another tourist attraction, not to be missed. One can also follow the Great Ocean Road, to see the stone monoliths known as the Twelve Apostles. Melbourne is known for
hidden laneways, opulent bars, exclusive restaurants and off-the-beaten-track boutiques. One can also head directly to Canberra, from Sydney, to experience its lake, parklands and native bush land and surrounds. It’s only a three hours drive from Sydney and if you want to take a ride, it is highly recommended to head to Canberra (it’s a golden opportunity to experience the scenic beauty). The city is famous for its museums, be it the Museum of Australian Democracy and Parliament House or the
Feel the pulse of the elegant city Adelaide, which is known for its colonial stone architecture, expansive parklands, lively festivals and incredible sense of space If you fly to the continent by the end of December, make sure that you are in Sydney to celebrate new year's eve, watching the harbour of light parade that has become synonymous with Sydney harbour. National Institute of Sport and Science. It also offers stylish restaurants, hip bars, boutique shopping and a non-stop calendar of festivals and events. To enjoy the spectacular Canberra Balloon Fiesta (March 12-20, 2012), a hot air balloon festival that takes place at the plush lawns of the old Parliament House of Canberra, stay back in the continent, after the matches. If you have had enough of cheering, Perth, the largest city of Western Australia, is the right place for you to refresh yourself, before the next match. It’s an ideal place to swim and surf, and feast on seafood. Cricket lovers can also enjoy cruise in Swan River. If you appreciate art TRAVEL PARTNER
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SEPTEMBER 2011
forms, make sure that you are in Perth to witness Perth International Arts Festival (February 10 to March 3, 2012). The festival teams up Australia’s top artistic talents with big-name international artists at venues across the city. You can have enough of plays, contemporary dance, dramatic classics and classical ballet, etc. As a cricket lover, missing the match at Brisbane would be the one thing that you do not want to think of. It’s the place, where you can laze in the lush riverside gardens of South Bank, browse the local markets or swim in its lagoon. Another attraction that one must visit is Gold Coast, situated 94 Kms south of the city. PARTNER COUNTRY
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DOWN UNDER With its sunny subtropical climate, surfing beaches, canal and waterway systems, active nightlife and rainforests, Gold Coast attracts hordes of tourists every year. For kids and those who are kids at heart, Gold Coast offers amazing theme parks Dream world, Movie World, Sea World and Wet ‘n Wild. Get your thrills on virtual reality rides at Dream world, swim with dolphins at Sea World and watch movies being made at Warner Bros Movie World. If you have time, do a one-stop-shop in one of the airy mega malls lining the Gold Coast. In Gold Coast one never runs short of choices. When you are in Adelaide, to cheer for your favourite team, feel the pulse of the elegant city, which is known for its colonial stone architecture, expansive parklands, lively festivals and incredible sense of space. One can explore the museums and libraries of North Terrace, dine on dedicated ‘eat streets’ or picnic in gardens that sprawl over almost half the city. Besides, one can swim with dolphins in Glenelg, or fish from the jetty in Henley. Also, visit the picturesque Adelaide Hills and the worldclass wineries of the Barossa Valley. After the match at Hobart,
it is recommended to browse through the bustling Salamanca markets. One can also take a ghost tour in Battery Point, walk across Australia’s oldest bridge in Richmond and visit the cute coastal hamlet of Kettering. Pay a visit to Freycinet, a beautiful national park located some 125 kilometres northeast of Hobart, as it will be a memorable experience. If you like to take a bit of risk, climb Sphinx Rock and see the Octopus Tree, the forest’s tallest tree. You can also take a four wheel drive along rough mountain trails, stroll through cool forested gullies along the historic Pipeline Track and traverse Wellington Range, on the back of a horse or mountain bike. So, plan your trip at the earliest, to experience what Australia has to offer.
Digital campaign to promote South Australia
S
outh Australian tourism commission has launched a campaign across an array of digital platforms, to promote the region as a must see destination for Indian tourists planning a holiday in
Australia. The ‘India Loves South Australia’ campaign makes an attempt at educating Indian travellers on destinations and attractions that South Australia has to offer. Conceptualised and managed
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by Indigo Consulting, this campaign uses various digital platforms, including microsites, banners, mobile microsites, mobile text messages and social media. The micro-site is designed to frame the highlights of
South Australia and attract visitors, to explore the contest on their own. The mobile site has been optimised for touch screen smart phones, with a single-page design that can be viewed without refreshing the page.
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Tourism Australia holds ITM 2011
I
ndia Travel Mission (ITM) 2011, Tourism Australia’s flagship event to draw travellers from India, was held at the Hyderabad International Convention Centre, from August 25-28, 2011. The ninth edition of the event, organised with an intention of promoting Australian holiday experiences among Indian travel trade, drew 40 delegates, representing various tourism businesses from across Australia and 90 Indian travel trade delegates from 12 cities. The event is Tourism Australia’s premier businessto-business event, providing a platform for Australian tourism businesses to showcase their products, meet Indian travel trade and negotiate business deals with the travel trade, who sell Australian holidays. The event highlighted that travelling to Australia is all about discovering the diversity, the wonder, landscapes and vibrant towns, the people and their unique
way of life, etc. The three day event featured personal one-on-one interface between Indian travel trade and individual Australian sellers, and round table networking sessions that facilitated interactions with the various state and territory tourism organisations. Three major airlines - Air Asia X, Singapore Airlines and Virgin Australia - participated at ITM, for the first time. This
trade, are the building blocks for creating long term tourism growth. We will continue working with travel agents and airline partners, in the lead up to the peak travel seasons, to drive interest and encourage bookings among consumers,” says, Nishant Kashikar, Tourism Australia Country Manager, India. This year’s ITM saw participation of buyers from across India, including
year’s event also witnessed participation of new seller companies, such as Mercure Sydney, Mirvac Hotels and Resorts, and Menzies Sydney. “ITM is an important feature of our trade initiatives and it gives us an opportunity to meet and update our travel partners, on the products and experiences in Australia. The relationships developed at the ITM, between the Australian tourism and the Indian travel
Ahmedabad, Pune, Kolkata, Cochin, Hyderabad, Chandigarh, Bengaluru and Chennai. Besides, leading tour operators such as Cox and Kings, Kesari, MakeMyTrip, Mercury Travels, SOTC Kuoni, Thomas Cook, Yatra, etc., participated in the event. The event was also attended by representatives from the Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC), who
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provided information to the travel agents about the processes associated with visa issuing. “It is encouraging to see the enthusiasm among the Indian travel trade about selling Australian holidays and we look forward to sustained growth of Indian visitors to Australia. In addition, we are looking at strengthening our destination training programme initiatives, to increase awareness on Australia among the travel trade,” adds, Kashikar. ITM plays an important role in attracting more number of visitors to Australia, from India. For the year ended June 30, 2011, the total Indian arrivals to Australia increased by 11 per cent to 114,500, compared to the corresponding period last year. The Tourism Forecasting Committee in Australia estimates average annual growth in arrivals from India at 8.6 per cent, through the year 2020.
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FACE TO FACE
Growing stronger The number of Indian travellers to Egypt has been on the rise, for the past several years. To draw more Indian arrivals, the country is now taking several calculated steps. In an interview to Asian Traveller, George Fawzi, President and CEO of Cairo-based Excel Travel provided glimpses of Egyptian attractions and the steps taken by the country to lure more Indian travellers. Edited Excerpts: How do you see the growth curve
always ready to welcome Indians
of Egyptian tourism industry and
to its land. It is very easy to get
Besides, Egypt Air is planning
how important a market is India
visas to Egypt and the Egyptian
more flights to India. Currently, it
must say archeological history is
for you?
Ambassador has expressed his
operates three flights to India in a
an important part. Then, for those
readiness to do his best to make
week and after the new addition,
who seek adventure, Egypt has a
travelling to Egypt a hassle-free
the number of services will go up
lot to offer. One can venture deep
aggressive by each year. Egypt is
to five flights a week. Egypt Air is
into the desert or opt for safaris to
a country that has based its
likely to add the new services by
western desert oases. Besides
economy to a great extent on
October. Also, discussions are on
these, there is stunning Great
tourism industry. India is a major
to introduce a stop in Delhi, to
Sand Sea desert and the Sinai
market for us, as we draw a
provide a better connectivity.
desert. It has also got something
handsome number of arrivals
Moreover, Egypt Air is planning to
to offer to leisure travellers. One
every year. The Egyptian tourism
bet big on the Indian travellers, to
can enjoy long stretches of sea
office in India usually takes up
the country.
shores of red sea. It is also a
strong promotional activities to
As a tourist destination, what are
destination that offers services
attract more travellers to the
the major attractions that Egypt
and products at a reasonable
country and the entire Egypt is
offer?
rate.
Tourism industry in Egypt is getting stronger and more
ASIAN TRAVELLER
SEPTEMBER 2011
af fair.
We have diverse products and services to offer to the travellers. I
163
GUJARAT TRAVELLER
A time to revel
F
estivals and Gujarat are synony mous to each other. Big or small, religious or social, festivals and fairs are celebrated with pomp and glory. It is an opportunity for the Gujaratis to gather together and share excitement and fun with others. If one wants to experience the vibrancy of Gujarat, the best time to visit this Indian state is during its festive season. Gujaratis, well aware that festivals and fairs symbolise people’s cultural, social and religious aspirations, often see to it that festivals and fairs are celebrated in a bigger way, in each year. Gujarati festivals are often a conglomerate of religious harmony, natural beauty, artistic embellishments and colours, making them both popular and auspicious. While most of the Indian
the performance of the dancers. They surge in waves of circular movement to the incessant throbbing of the drums and keep on changing from one group to the next. The atmosphere is indeed of festive fervour and excitement. Several forms of folk dances are performed as part of the fair but most popular among them are ‘rass’ and ‘rahado’. ‘Rass’ is a form of dance, where the dancers hold sticks to clack against those of other dancers. In this form, as many as 100 to 200 women perform the dance in a single circle, to the beats of four drums at a time and to the tunes of ‘jodia pavas’
states involve in the agrarian practices in the months between June and October, it is festive mood in Gujarat and time for Tarnetar Fair, Bhadrapad Ambaji Fair and Navratri festival. The Tarnetar Fair, a festival based on the story of Draupadi’s ‘swayamvara’, is all about whirlwind of colours, romance and excitement. Centred on young tribal men and women seeking marriage partners, this fair is also a celebration of ethnic Gujarat’s folk dance, music, costumes and arts. The element of romance and excitement associated with the festival is captivating to human imagination and the popularity of the festival attracts foreign and domestic tourists, alike. Colourful costumes, glittering ornaments and free spirited movements of folk dancers combine to create a memorable festive mood. The festival is usually held in the month of September. The striking aspect of the festival is
(double flutes). The famous circular folk dance ‘Rahado’ is performed by Rabari women of nearby Zalawad. It is a platform for the women dancers to proclaim their marital status through the colour of costume they wear. While married women wear a black ‘zimi’ (skirt), unmarried ones wear a red ‘zimi’. However, men are not just sitting in a corner looking out for soul mates. Eligible bachelors seeking brides come elegantly dressed in colourful dhotis, artistically designed waistcoats and a head-cloth twisted at an angle, moving about the fairground at Tarnetar with striking umbrellas, advertising the bachelorhood they are keen to relinquish.
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GUJARAT TRAVELLER Added to the fervour of the festival is the numerous ‘sadhus’ and ‘bhajan mandlis’ (religious music groups) singing continuously, accompanied by folk instruments. It is also time to purchase beautiful local handicrafts, ethnic jewellery, statues of deities and traditional attire with tiny mirrors embroidered into the clothing, from the stalls set up at the fairground. One can also find tattoo artists at the fair. Another fair happening in Gujarat in the month of September is Bhadrapad fair. It takes place at Ambaji village, just outside the temple premises and generally attracts devotees from across the globe. Even the splendid nature seems to prepare herself for the festival, with her rich greenery, sparkling streams and fresh air. Large number of ‘sanghas’ (pilgrims) from far off places throng the village to participate in the fair. On the full moon night of the festive season, sanghas arrange a traditional and popular folk drama ‘bhavai’. About 15 lakh devotees are known to attend this fair each year. Ambaji is the principal shrine of goddess Arasuri Amba, who has been worshiped since the pre-vedic period. The temple is located in the Arasur hills, near the
source of the Saraswati river, at the south-western end of the Aravali mountain range. The inner sanctum has silver plated doors and a gold-plated marble inscription of the ‘viso yantra’, a
vedic text on sacred geometry, which is the main focus of worship. The next festival in line is Navratri, which is celebrated all over Gujarat in reverence of Ambaji. It is also a time to celebrate fertility and the monsoon harvest. Though Navratri, meaning ‘nine nights’, is one of the most popular and widely celebrated Hindu festivals in many parts of India, Gujarat is probably the only state that erupts into a ninenight dance festival, perhaps the longest in the world. The dance form associated with this festival is ‘garba’. During Navratri, people dance in a circle, whirling away till late into the night. The traditional dance steps are simple, though over the years people
have invented more complex steps. Also, the music was traditionally acoustic, mainly composed of drums and singing. But, most people now use a blend of live band with modern instruments. Vadodara, popularly known as the cultural capital of Gujarat, is a good place to find the full range of these styles - traditional to modern and simple to complicated. If you are looking forward to experience the real cultural heritage of India and feel the pulse of the festivals, pack your bags to Gujarat, the festival city, and feel the excitement in the air.
Gujarat plans special tourism region development act
I
n a bid to regulate the
Development Act. “As part of our
the basis of this act, a specialised
haphazard development in and
efforts at tourism development,
General Development Control and
around tourism hotspots and
we are thinking of planned
Regulation (GDCR) body will be
develop the high potential tourism
development of the famous and
formed for the notified tourism
areas in a planned manner, the
possible tourism hotspots. A state
regions. A development authority
Gujarat Government is planning to
level authority will be created
on the lines of AUDA for
set up a Special Tourism Region
under the act, to control activities
Ahmedabad and SUDA for Surat
(STR) Development Act, on the
like pollution, haphazard
will be set up, for every earmarked
lines of the Special Investment
development and the like,” says
and notified tourism region.
Region (SIR) Act of 2009.
Mittra.”
Vipul Mittra, Principal
developed according to the
Secretary - Tourism, Government.
the SIR Act, passed by the
special town planning
of Gujarat, affirmed the state’s
government. It will focus on
schemes,” he throws more light
plan to come up with an STR
notifying the tourism regions. On
into the government plans.
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The proposed act will be like
The tourism regions will be
SEPTEMBER 2011
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GUJARAT TRAVELLER
Gujarat to unveil cruise tourism policy by October
I
f everything goes well, Gujarat will have a cruise tourism policy by October this year, enabling the government to develop, support and promote cruising as well as various sea and water sports activities in the state. The Department of Tourism, Govt. of Gujarat, has drafted a cruise tourism policy and plans to unveil the same by October, 2011. According to Vipul Mittra, Principal Secretary, Tourism, Civil Aviation and Pilgrimage, Govt. of Gujarat, the draft has received approval from the state port and transport department. “We are now seeking approval from the state’s home ministry, to clear security issues and once we get approval from the home ministry, we will seek the cabinet approval,” he adds. The new cruise tourism policy is expected to offer several incentives and ben-
efits, to the stake holders in cruise tourism, including minimal port dues, priority berthing for cruise vessels on discounted rates, disembarkation and embarkation facilities for cruise travellers at ports and jetties etc. “Gujarat has a good potential for developing cruise tourism. The state has almost 1,600 kms of coastline and 20 ports, both major and minor. The coastline can be developed to offer tourists adventure sports like scuba diving and a host of water sports activities. The new policy is the need of the hour, to tap the cruise tourism potential,” says Mittra, elaborating on the significance and the need for the policy. Among other measures, Gujarat has chalked out a master plan to develop 14 beaches, on a public-private partnership to promote beach tourism, in the state. The
proposed new cruise tourism policy will also compliment and aid this initiative. “The policy will certainly boost cruise tourism in the state and if major cruise companies can be attracted to make Gujarat a port of call, it will enable Indian travellers to commence their cruise holiday from India, instead of flying
abroad. This will also help in reducing the cruise package cost,” maintains P P Khanna, Vice-President, Association of Domestic Tour Operators of India. If the draft gets passed, international cruise ships will get another option in India for berthing, while Gujarat can benefit, by tapping the cruise segment.
Guj spends more on domestic travel T
ravellers from Gujarat accounted for a significant seven per cent of the country’s total spend on vacation travel, say recent reports. Besides, Gujarat’s three large cities – Ahmedabad, Vadodara and Surat – feature in the top 15 source markets for tourism in the country. Reports also show that Indian travellers took around 500 million trips across the country in the last year. “A traveller from Gujarat PARTNER COUNTRY HOSPITALITY PARTNER
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spends 50 per cent more, compared to the travellers from other states, on domestic travel. If the average budget per trip for a traveller is Rs 11,063, for a two day trip, a traveller from Gujarat spends Rs 16,461. The average group size is 5.25 people from Gujarat which is also higher than the national average, by about 20 per cent,” says Hari Nair, founder and CEO, holidayiq.com.
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NEWS
Chinese rev up Taiwan’s hospitality Inc
I
t seems, nowadays, Taiwan’s hospitality industry is riding on the shoulders of Chinese travellers. Since Taiwan opened its borders to Chinese travellers way back in 2008, its hospitality industry has witnessed a boom, unparalleled in its history. According to the Taiwan’s Tourism Bureau (TTB), in the last three years, about 5.71 million Chinese tourists have visited Tai, generating around NT $ 209 billion (USD 7.2 billion) in revenue. “The number of arrivals is expected to increase further, as the result of the commencement of solo mainland Chinese travel in late June,” TTB officials said. Up to 500 mainland Chinese are permitted to enter
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Taiwan per diem, for trips of up to 15 days under an agreement inked by Taiwan’s
provided by a mainland Chinese credit card company. For the same period, as per
and a rise of 744, year-onyear. The influx of visitors from across the strait has
Straits Exchange Foundation and its mainland Chinese counterpart, the Association for Relations across the Taiwan Straits. Mainland Chinese made over NT$ 12 billion in purchases during their Taiwan visits in 2010, TTB officials said, citing statistics
the government data, foreign exchange revenue from tourism was over NT $ 270 billion. According to the officials, the number of mainland Chinese group tourists arrived during August 1 to 9 averaged 3,228 per day, representing an 18 per cent increase from July
prompted greater investment in the hospitality industry. Last year, Taiwan opened 286 hotels and refurbished about 286 ones, requiring NT$181 billion in capital. Mainland Chinese opinions concerning Taiwan are also undergoing a shift, due to the government’s tourism initiative.
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HONG KONG
Hong Kong
Scaling new heights
I
t’s a flourishing time for Hong Kong tourism. The number of tourist arrivals to this fragrant harbour city almost grew by 14.7 per cent to 19,331, 181, in the first six months of 2011. And it is the highest ever half yearly figure for the Hong Kong tourism. Heralding a healthy tourist arrival in the second half of the year, the month of June saw a robust growth, with a 15.9 per cent increase in visitor arrivals, to 3,035,222. “We are happy that the
visitor arrivals to Hong Kong have touched a new high, in the first half of this year, with all major source markets achieving a steady growth. It is glad to notice that arrivals from Mainland China has increased by more than 20 per cent to more than 12 million, as a result of the ‘Individual Visit Scheme’ policy and the positive economic environment, which have boosted consumers’ propensity for spending and outbound travel,” says a
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jubilant James Tien, Chairman, Hong Kong Tourism Board. It was travellers from Mainland China that mainly drove the tourist traffic flow to Hong Kong, during the period under discussion. In the first six months of 2011, tourist arrivals from Mainland China increased by 21.1 per cent, to more than 12 million. Of these, overnight arrivals went up by 11.8 per cent, to 6.13 million. Meanwhile, 64.5 per cent
or close to 8.2 million travellers made their trip to Hong Kong under the ‘Individual Visit Scheme’, a 28.6 per cent increase, from the comparable period last year. In June alone, the number of Mainland arrivals to Hong Kong increased by 23.1 per cent year-on-year, to more than 1.92 million. This was the fourth consecutive month, since March that saw tourist arrivals from the Mainland crossing 20 per cent mark.
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HONG KONG While Mainland China was the major growth driver, short-haul markets also contributed to the growth of Hong Kong tourism. For instance, travellers from South Korea and various other South-East Asian markets, to this land of stunning cityscapes, heritage sites, soaring mountains and extensive green countryside, witnessed a double digit growth in the first half of 2011. There was also sustained growth in overnight arrivals from Taiwan, despite the ongoing further expansion of the cross-strait direct links. However, total arrivals from Taiwan remained at about the same levels of last year. From the short-haul markets, arrivals exceeded 3.93 million in the first half of 2011, a four per cent increase from the figure of last year. The star performer was South Korea, which registered an increase of 18.6 per cent travellers to Hong Kong during the first six months of this year. Reliable sources indicate that South Korea’s steady economy and strong currency have encouraged outbound travel and it was the main reason why Hong Kong witnessed around half a million tourists from South Korea. In June, South Korean arrivals went up by 37.3 per cent, to almost 80,000. In South-East Asia, the relatively stable political and economic conditions, coupled with increased flights to Hong Kong as well as competitivelypriced air tickets and packages, by the travel trade, have motivated more people to travel to the land of the Peak, Victoria Harbour and Giant Buddha. As a result, the half-yearly arrivals from the
region increased by 9.3 per cent, to around 1.5 million. Satisfactory performance was also recorded for June 2011, with arrivals from Indonesia, Singapore and Thailand going up by 26 per cent, 20.9 per cent and 32 per cent, respectively. When it comes to Taiwan, cumulative arrivals during the period under discussion remained at 1.05 million, same as last year. However, the number of overnight visitors with higher spending capacity, notwithstanding the sustained impact of the expansion of cross-strait direct links on same-day visitors, increased by 11 per cent. In June, overnight Taiwanese arrivals surged by 32.9 per cent, taking the overall arrivals from the island to more than 180,000, a 7.7 per cent increase. Travellers from Japan saw a decline, largely due to the impact of the earthquake and related incidents that sent shock waves across the country in March this year. Recent figures indicate that arrivals from Japan dipped 6.9 per cent, to slightly below 600,000, in the first half of the year. In the month of June, arrivals from the land of rising sun reached about 92,000. Although the figure represented an 11.2 per cent dip year-on-year, the declining trend has slowed down and stabilised, indicating that the negative impact of the calamities on outbound travel is beginning to lessen. An analysis of the flow of travellers from long-haul markets show that overall arrivals to Hong Kong increased by three per cent, to more than 2.31 million, in the first six months of 2011. While
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the performance of individual markets varied, the Americas took the lead, registering an increase of 6 per cent travellers, to Hong Kong. Among the emerging markets, arrivals from Russia saw an increase of 50 per cent, in June and first half of the year. “Looking forward to the second half of the year, we expect the growth momentum to continue. We have already lined up a series of mega events and promotions, to
enhance Hong Kong’s appeal and stimulate consumers’ desire, to visit the city. Meanwhile, we are also closely monitoring the development of the European and American financial markets, which might impact the global economy and tourism. We will continue our flexible approach and adapt our marketing strategies in the light of the latest market trends,” signs off Tien, with a smile.
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SERENDIB
Land, where history sleeps
R
emember not Lanka for the days of conflict and bloodshed. It can offer you high tide days and you can go home, reminiscing the time you spent here, at a number of blissful heritage sites and beaches. Moreover, if exploring history is part and parcel of your travel plan, Lanka is the place for you, as
this pearl of the Indian Ocean lays claim to a long and colourful history of over 300 years. Lanka has the longest documented histories in the world and its rich culture can be attributed to different communities on the island. Its history is distinctive, as it has a historical record, which is ancient, continuous
and trustworthy and begins with the occupation of the island, by civilised men in 5th century, BC. The story continues under each successive king, for over 20 centuries. The Mahavamsa is primarily a dynamic and religious historical record. In addition to this record, there are over 2500 inscriptions in Sri Lanka.
Visit the abode of Buddhism to take a journey through its history, while enjoying its stunning landscapes, pristine beaches and captivating cultural heritage
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SERENDIB
© VascoPlanet.com
Sri Lanka has a great tourism potential, as it boasts of one of the best beaches in the world, wildlife sanctuaries, unique ecosystems and heritage sites, as well as a diverse climate
forests, white beaches and diverse landscapes is surrounded by the Indian Ocean, the Gulf of Mannar and the Palk Strait and lies in the vicinity of India and Maldives. It lies between latitudes 5° and 10°N and longitudes 79° and 82°E. Hence, its climate is tropical and warm.
© VascoPlanet.com
Situated off the southern coast of the Indian subcontinent, Lanka has been a known centre of the Buddhist religion and culture, since ancient times. It is one of the few remaining abodes of Buddhism in South Asia and joins the club of Ladakh, Bhutan and the Chittagong hill tracts. This land of lush tropical
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Heritage Sites, 1,330 kilometres of coastline - much of it pristine beach, 15 national parks - showcasing an abundance of wildlife, nearly 500,000 acres of lush tea estates, 250 acres of botanical gardens, 350 waterfalls and 25,000 water bodies. What’s more striking is its culture that dates back to over 2,500 years. The Sinhalese community forms the majority of the This is an island of magical population, while Tamils, proportions and few places in who are concentrated in the the world can offer the travel- north and east of the island, lers such a remarkable combi- form the largest ethnic minornation of stunning landscapes, ity. Other communities include Moors, Burghers, pristine beaches, captivating Kaffirs, Malays and the cultural heritage and unique experiences, within a compact aboriginal Vedda people. The country is famous for the location as Sri Lanka. Here, within an area of 65, 610 Kms production and export of tea, coffee, coconuts, rubber and lie eight UNESCO World cinnamon. Despite its natural beauty, Sri Lanka has not been, for quite sometime, in the good books of the tourists across the globe, largely due to the turbulent times, it has been going through. With an era of conflict and bloodshed coming to a close end, the Sri Lankan government is now putting forth a brave and optimistic face, in the sphere of tourism. A confident Sri Lankan tourism development authority is expecting 700000 tourists in 2011 and arrivals are projected to hit 2.5 million a year, by 2016. More can be read from one of its minister’s PARTNER COUNTRY
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words. “Peace is the biggest investment for the development of tourism, in any country,” smiles Basil Rajapaksa, Minister of Economic Development, Sri Lanka. Sri Lanka has a great tourism potential to showcase, before the rest of the world, as it boasts of one of the best beaches in the world, wildlife sanctuaries, unique ecosystems and heritage sites (from ancient cities to colonial forts), as well as a diverse climate, within a small radius. Lying within the Indo-Malaya eco zone, Sri Lanka is one of the 25 biodiversity hotspots, in the world. Although the country is relatively small in size, it has the highest biodiversity per 10,000 square km, in Asia. There are many special places worthy of exploration, but unfortunately, such places have very little exposure to the outside world. Once you are in Lanka, set out your journey to Gal Oya National Park. It’s a place, where you can see elephant herd throughout the year. Situated in the eastern part of the island, Gal Oya is a great place for bird watching and nature expeditions. This ecological destination serves as the main catchment area for the Senanayake Samudraya Reservoir, the largest inland body of water in Sri Lanka. A visit to the Wasgamuwa National Park is recommended, as it’s worthy for reasons more than one. Spanning over 36,900 hectares, this park is bordered by river Mahaweli Ganga and river Amban Ganga, in east and west, respectively. The park is inhabited by a herd of 150 Sri Lankan elephants. The best time to enjoy the sight of PARTNER COUNTRY HOSPITALITY PARTNER
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SERENDIB large herds is November to May. During the rest of the year, the elephants tend to migrate to nearby Minneriya and Kaudulla National Parks. Other wildlife, in this park, includes purple faced Langur and Toque Macaque monkeys, water buffalo, Lankan axe deer, leopards, etc. The park is also a home to 143 species of birds, including eight endemic species. Remains of a number of small rainwater reservoirs and ruins of temples reveal that the region of Wasgamuwa National Park was once home to prosperous villages. The ruins, estimated to be about 1800 years old, feature a reclining Buddha statue at Buduruwayaya. Remnants of a palace with stone pillars are also found in a canal known as Kalinga Yoda Ela, built by King Parakrambahu the great, in the twelfth century. Another national park that may interest the travellers is Somawathiya National Park. Travel in a safari jeep, to experience this charming and unique landscape. The park features Somawathiya Chaitya, a stupa said to be containing a relic of the tooth of the Buddha. Water-filled basins are the specialty of this picturesque park and it is known for the richness and predominance of the watertolerant grasses and aquatic plants. Having travelled all the way to Sri Lanka, to experience the pulse of the island, it is a must to visit Hummanaya, the second largest blowhole in the world. A visit to this place will give you an opportunity to take a dip in the sea and a day of leisure, at the glorious Tangalle beach. At Hummanaya, the ocean water flows underneath the shore
and subsequently comes out of this hole, due to pressure. This process goes on every minute or so and as such gives a serene feeling. It is also worth visiting Rekawa, where you can watch a number of sea turtles and the most popular them being the green turtle. The best period to see turtles is between January and April, when there is full moon. Among other things, you can have a refreshing bath in Kanniya hot wells, as it will render you a memorable experience. Kanniya hot wells are one of the seven wonders in Sri Lanka and it is also one of the historical places, in Trincomalee district. Water in these wells usually has different temperatures. Trincomalee is famous for its natural harbour, which figures among the top five largest natural harbours in the world. For adventure seekers, the island offers endless thrills, from an enjoyable day of golf or cricket, to wave riding or paragliding. Since it’s a land of waterfalls, this hill country
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provide enough kayaking and canoeing opportunities. Go to Mahaweli River, the longest in the island, for white water rafting. If camping or trekking is your call, rush to central highlands, as this place can offer the most earthy, real experiences for those who are looking to go back, to nature. However, backpacking and cycling are great ways to discover this mysterious island and to feel, taste and hear Sri Lanka, untainted. Sri Lanka is also a land of colourful festival, relating to the Buddhist, Hindu, Muslim and Christian religions. The island’s popular tourism oriented festival is the Kandy Esala Perahera, held in Kandy, over 10 days in late July to early August. Perahera means ‘procession’ and that’s exactly what occurs nightly - a magical passing-by of drummers, dancers, whip-crackers, acrobats and robed elephants. A caparisoned tusker carries the reason for the festival - the sacred tooth relic of the Buddha, for the people to venerate.
Having travelled all the way to Sri Lanka, to experience the pulse of the island, it is a must to visit Hummanaya, the second largest blowhole in the world This hill country is also a best place for one to refresh, not just mind and body, but also soul and spirit. One can experience the rejuvenating power of Ayurveda, the oldest and most holistic medical system, here. Ayurvedic programmes consist of a range of herbal treatments and various types of baths and massages, together with cleansing and revitalisation techniques, such as yoga, meditation and special diets. The west coast has a number of spas and centres that offer eastern and western therapies such as Thai massage, hydrotherapy, herbal baths, reflexology and beauty treatments. In short, Lanka is a country, which has something to offer to every visitor. PARTNER COUNTRY
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WELLNESS
Ayurvedic route to protect your health Dr. U Indulal
‘Health for all by 2000 AD’ is perhaps the most popular slogan heard in recent times, in the healthcare sector. This ambitious goal was set by the World Health Organisation (WHO) via Alma–Ata declaration in 1978, the year in which health was reaffirmed as a fundamental human right. Now, we are in a new millennium, more than three decades past that declaration, far away from that goal and amidst newly emerging miseries. Experts have analysed the situation and several papers published on this, educate us on what caused it. Health, as declared in 1978, is our fundamental right. We should have access to safe and effective healthcare and the government (state) should ensure that this is made available. We should also understand that health is our individual responsibility. Most of the time, it is when we fail to meet the responsibility, doctors and medicines take control over our health. The change in the healthcare scenario proves that we have failed in doing our duty. According to WHO, noncommunicable diseases (NCD) are replacing infectious diseases and malnutrition has been identified as the leading cause of disability and premature death. Faulty lifestyle is considered to be one of the
risk factors of NCDs like heart disease and diabetes, which are also known as lifestyle diseases. This is anything but proof of our failure in our responsibility to take care of our health. If health is not achieved by all, it could well be attributed to the failure of the state, in protecting the right and the failure of an individual, in carrying out his responsibility. Ayurveda is the best way to maintain the health of a healthy person and to alleviate the miseries of a diseased individual. One who wants to maintain the health or a patient who wants to regain the health has a dynamic role to play in the treatment process. It is not just the physician, medicine and the medical support staff that make the treatment process complete, but also the participation of a committed patient. This commitment is mainly an individual’s responsibility. Whether the intention is to preserve health, or get relief from a disease condition, this individual responsibility plays an important (effective) role. It starts with ‘thinking about the self’, as ayurveda insists. It is a responsible assessment of one’s body on a daily basis – on the status of health, an analysis of food and activities, and their suitability, mental and spiritual activities involved in, relationship with society, harmony with the nature and universe, etc.
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WELLNESS Ayurveda is the best way to maintain the health of a healthy person and to alleviate the miseries of a diseased individual. In this system, the participation of a committed patient is a must
These assessments are to ensure that we do not deviate from the path of health. We may start with observations of the basic functions of the body, sleep, appetite, bowel movement, urine output, etc. If any change from normalcy is noted, look whether the cause is our faulty diet or activities. Correct that mistake and regain health. We need to seek medical help, only if there is no response to such corrective measures and if there is an aggravation of the problem (This is regarding body’s basic functions. Manifestation of other complaints, say chest pain, needs immediate medical attention). Body has two aspects – pure and impure. All our activities related to diet and life are supposed to nourish the pure aspects. Medicine and treatment are meant to reinstall the purity, whenever it is lost. The impurity gets accumulated, when we refrain from thinking about the self and ignore simple signals that body gives us and manifest as full blown disease. A smoker gradually spoils the lungs and an alcoholic slowly kills the liver function. This is, however, a reversible condition, with modification in diet and lifestyle. Otherwise, such diseases will respond only to medicines and treatments. We may lead a life in a way that enriches the purity. However, there are factors outside our control, like TRAVEL PARTNER
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pollution, which adds on to the impurities within. The problem is that we are exposed to such influences more often than before and it has become easier and faster for a state of ease, to become a state of disease. The impurity that builds up beyond certain level causes disease. Ayurveda advises periodic or seasonal cleansing programmes, to prevent occurrence and recurrence of such diseases. Individuals can contribute their bit to the society, by preventing manifestation and progression of diseases. This possibility is to be taken seriously and the government should promote the concept of individual responsibility, on one’s health. It becomes ideal when, as US President’s health policy, incentives are provided for healthy ways of living, rather than reimbursing the cost of drugs and surgery. Kalidasa, the great Indian poet, conveys the essence of individual healthcare in a one single line. The context is mythological. In the intense penance to appease Lord Siva, Parvathi ignores her body. Lord appears disguised as a scholar concerned at her deteriorating health and gives this advice, which transcends time, space and that very mythology appear in front of us, as a constant reminder ‘the body is the tool to perform righteous deeds’. (The author is Deputy Director – Technical, with the Arya Vaidya Pharmacy Limited, Coimbatore)
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BOOKS
A travelogue with a difference
T
hough several books on
Lord Vishnu and Lord
Lord Krishna are widely
Sheshanaag, respectively to a
available, most of them
bewildered Akroor. The book also
describe only his commonly
describes Ranga Bhoomi, where
known pastimes. Countless divine
Lord Krishna killed his tyrannical
incidents in his life find a mention
uncle Kamsa and another
in very few books. A few travel
important place Vishram Ghat,
related books and websites give
where he rested.
details of the places associated
journey from Mathura to Mahavan
however, do not cover some less
and Gokul. Mahavan will remain in
known places that are equally
the minds of readers for a long
significant. Now, history is re-
time for the gory killings of
Dev Prasad
written with the
demons and lovely moments like
Jyotisar, where Lord Krishna
launch of the
Krishna showing the entire
uttered the Bhagavad Gita and
book ‘Krishna: A
cosmos in his mouth, to his
places like Bhisham Kund, where
journey through
mother. Raval, the birthplace of
Bhishma rested on a bed of
the lands and
Radha, and then Baldeo, the place
arrows and Ban Ganga, where
legends of
where Balarama stayed, are
Arjuna shot an arrow to the
Krishna’.
described in sequence.
ground, to bring the water from
This
Next, the author takes the
Holy Ganga. The last meeting of
innovative book
readers to Vrindavan, where
Radha and Krishna at Brahma
blends the
Nanda, Krishna’s father, along
Sarovar is also described at
‘legends of
with his family, migrated. From
length in this book.
Krishna’ with the
famous places like Kaliya Ghat,
‘places where the
where Lord Krishna vanquished
readers from Brij Bhoomi (in Uttar
pastimes
and danced on the deadly serpent
Pradesh) to Dwarka (in Gujarat),
occurred’. Its
Kaliya to less known places like
where Krishna established his
author, Dev
Kesi Ghat, where he killed the
kingdom and ruled for nine
Prasad describes
demon Kesi, to Imli Tala, where
decades.
each place in its
Radha cursed a tamarind tree, to
present state,
Nidhivan where Krishna
the marriage of Krishna with
sharing his own
performed the Ras Lila dance with
Rukmini and legend of Rukmini
experiences and
the Gopis, find a mention in the
Temple. The book then takes the
blending them,
book.
readers to Porbandar (earlier
with occurrences
The book also describes a
The book also transports the
It narrates the famous story of
known as Sudamapuri) and the
of the distant
fascinating contest between an
friendship between Sudama and
past.
innocent Radha and a charming
Krishna.
The book
Krishna, in Radhakund. It then
The book gives the details of
starts with an introduction to Lord
takes one to the spot where Lord
Somnath, where Lord Krishna
Krishna. After this, the narration of
Krishna lifted Goverdhan Hill, to
watched the Yadavas get
Krishna’s legends and places
protect the residents from the fury
intoxicated and fight one another,
associated with his pastimes
of incessant rains showered by
till none survived. It also narrates
begins.
Lord Indra. The readers will also
the final journey of Balarama and
get to know about Brahma Kund,
Krishna from the earth to their
described. The book describes
where Lord Brahma tried to test
abode, Vaikuntha.
not only the famous tourist spot
Lord Krishna’s powers and failed.
Mathura is the first town to be
Krishna Janmasthan, where
No book on Lord Krishna can
The last chapter of the book is a travelogue, which helps a
Krishna was born but also
be complete, without referring to
traveller to plan his journey. It
mentions places like Akroor Ghat,
his preaching of the Bhagavad
gives the optimum sequence of all
where Krishna and Balarama
Gita to Arjuna. The book
towns, including the duration of
showed their original forms of
describes the famous spot
stay.
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The readers trace Krishna’s
with these legends. They,
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NEWS LINE
Kollam hosts Second Southern Regional Conference of Tourism Ministers
S
econd Southern Re gional Conference of Tourism Ministers was held in Kollam, Kerala, recently. The event saw participation of states like Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Kerala and the Union Territories of Puducherry, Lakshadweep and Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The conference was inaugurated by Subodh Kant Sahai, Union Minister for Tourism. The event was also attended by private sector, representing various trade bodies and associations like FICCI, CII, ADTOI, IATO, HAI, FHRAI, ITTA, etc.
ASIAN TRAVELLER
The conference was held with an objective to bring together all the states, Union Territory Administrations and the private sector stakeholders of the southern region on a common platform, to discuss and take forward a holistic
SEPTEMBER 2011
and integrated development of tourism in the region. The presentations made by the participants highlighted issues relating to development of infrastructure through integrated planning, public private partnership,
convergence of resources, manpower development, strategies for promoting of intra and interstate domestic tourism and implementation of code of conduct for safe, honourable and sustainable tourism.
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ALBUM Lens view of the Second Southern Regional Conference of Tourism Ministers, held at Kollam
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NEW VENTURE
Glimpses of lighting ceremony of 3M’s corporate office at Cochin
An emerging travel partner
T
esteemed clientele.
o tap emerging business
the travellers, to explore and
opportunities in the tourism
discover the diversity of major
industry, Media Steps India
destinations across the globe. 3M
conceptualisation to management,
is all set to venture into tours and
Tours & Travels is expected to
budgeting to financial
travel market with its maiden
provide the best of travel related
management and all the services
initiative 3M Tours and Travels. 3M
services to the local and
in one umbrella.
will be officially launched on
international tourists. The
September 27, 2011 at a function
company will have associate
special focus on MICE, has
service tour and travel agent and
to be held at Nayanar Hall, Hotel
offices throughout the world, led
already equipped itself to meet
will offer a host of other services
Le Meridian, Kochi.
by a team of experienced, trained
the diverse needs of conference
like hotel booking, car and coach
and dedicated professionals. It
and incentive organisers. The
rental, inbound packaged tour
complete travel solution company,
will also focus on leisure segment,
conference and incentive
operation and handling, air
offering unique travel packages
with an unconditional pursuit of
management services will allow
ticketing, money exchange, etc.
and tourist guide information to
endowing superior services, to its
the company to implement and
www.3mtoursandtravels.com
3M Tours & Travels will be a
PARTNER COUNTRY HOSPITALITY PARTNER
182
execute international and
3M Tours & Travels, with a
domestic conferences - from
3M Tours & Travels will be a full
TRAVEL PARTNER
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SEPTEMBER 2011
HOSPITALITY
Isola Di Cocco
For a memorable stay housing villas, each with its own
are luxurious and they are noted
attacks of wild animals. At Isola Di
of coconuts), a heritage resort
balcony, offering breathtaking
for their stylish, vibrant design. All
Cocco, modified tree houses
situated by the side of the
views and reflecting the
of its rooms get ample daylight
come with all the facilities you are
Kovalam – Poovar - Kanyakumari
magnificence of Kerala’s typical
and offer panoramic view of the
getting at your home.
road, is a unique one in all its
architecture. This heritage resort
stunning natural environment,
sense. Situated amidst the
has all those facilities that your
thanks to the expansive windows.
exuberant coconut groves, on the
mind may aspire for, including
At Isola Di Cocco,
banks of the river Poovar and at
river, lakes, backwaters, country
you will surely
The Isola Di Cocco (the island
the juncture where
boat rides, etc. To top it
enjoy the views of
the tranquil river
all, you can rejuvenate
the beach, Kerala
embraces the roaring
yourself at its ayurvedic
architectural
Arabian Sea, it can
treatment centre.
features and rich
The resort offers a
offer you a
material tones and textures.
memorable stay in
lot of amenities,
the God’s own
including decent
Its heritage
country. It will take
accommodation
rooms are wooden
only 45 minutes drive
facilities, 24 hours room
paneled, with teak
service, swimming pool
or rosewood. Each
to reach this unique resort from both the
and several other services, to
room resembles
Thiruvananthapuram airport and
accommodate
the ‘tharavadu’,
railway station.
all your needs
ancient traditional
and wishes. It
houses of Kerala.
by water, where nature offers her
houses modern
The resort also
bountiful best - a river bank, a
rooms with
offers suite
beach, a lake, ponds and
traditional
accommodations,
backwaters. The view from the
carved wood
resort is exciting, as you can see
furniture and a
the beautiful scenery in the form
verandah,
of panoramic river, beach and the sea. Isola Di Cocco is built in the
The resort is virtually encircled
which come with a Jagdish B Nair Vice President
verandah, a living room, a bedroom and an open-to-
also offers two very unique dining
facing a delightfully laid out, well-
sky modern bathroom. These
and entertainment experiences.
landscaped exotic garden.
suites are centrally air-
Guests can enjoy the resort’s
conditioned.
sophisticated seafood restaurant
Guest rooms at Isola Di Cocco
model of secluded clusters of
Another attraction that Isola Di
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Among other things, Isola Di Cocco- Beach Resort at Poovar
SEPTEMBER 2011
and the open air restaurant. Each
Cocco offers is the tree houses.
offers a distinctively different
Tree houses are modified versions
atmosphere and an extensive
of ‘erumadam’, usually used by
menu of food and drink, satisfying
the tribals, to escape from the
every craving.
PARTNER COUNTRY HOSPITALITY PARTNER
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HOSPITALITY
Vythiri Resort
In the lap of Mother Nature
A
t Vythiri Resort, wrapped in the lush embrace of a tropical rainforest, you will dwell in perfect harmony with nature, pristine and waiting to be explored. Allow yourself to be seduced by the orchestration of delicate and subtle sounds, accompanying nature’s theatre. Quiet elegant and exclusive, the Vythri Resort is a state of mind with breathtaking vistas. Spread over150 acre, the resort is well furnished and equipped with all amenities, to provide the residents an immediate experience of the surrounding sights and sounds. Built of brick with wooden rafters on the roof, furnished in cane, wood and fabrics of discreet elegance, its cottages are equipped with all modern amenities. The accommodations are designed so as to provide residents an immediate experience of the surrounding sights and sounds. Accommodations are available in configurations ranging from heady tree houses, to cottages on stilts overlooking the stream and cottages with jacuzzi, private pools and a
suite. Everywhere, one can hear the muted hiss of the stream. A rope bridge across the stream leads to the restaurant, overlooking the swimming pool at one end and Jose Kainady a sweeping MD view of the forest all around. Built by indigenous tribals with locally available materials, the four tree houses (including 1 exclusive child friendly tree house) set high above the lush canopy of the rainforest, are ideal for
PARTNER COUNTRY HOSPITALITY PARTNER
184
couples and for small families. sive balconies that face the Offering a degree of seclusion, stream rushing by below. The yet close enough to the balconies are great spots to watch a wide variety of exotic birds in the overarching trees, or to sit back reading a book. Vythiri Haven are exquisite cottages, with spacious sit outs, elegantly furnished and facing the stream downstream. Planters Retreat consists of six adjoining rooms inspired by traditional Kerala pathway and the general areas, Vythiri Resort offers 18 architecture, with generous use of wood. Each room come spacious, rustic styled cotwith private plunge pools and tages, with views of the balconies, offering splendid stream and of the forest views of the forest. Set away stretching out above the from the pathway, secluded resort. Vythiri Habitat conand intimate, it is ideal for tains four rooms with exclucouples. Vythiri Resort also provides other facilities like Vythiri Spa, conference hall, ayurveda centre, safe deposit lockers, health club, coffee shop, multi cuisine restaurant, indoor games and several outdoor activities, for the guest. Guests can also relax in their cottages or go for walks in the forest. The resort is just 85 kilometres from Calicut International Airport and 18 kilometres from Kalpetta. www.vythiriresort.com TRAVEL PARTNER
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SEPTEMBER 2011
HOSPITALITY touches the lake. The multi-
of international
cuisine restaurant ‘Funnel’ serves
wines, liquor
subtle flavours of continental
and a
cuisine to spicy delights of coastal
fascinating
Indian. Live western and Indian
display of their
classical music is played on
flaring skills as
Saturdays and Sundays. In addition to lake-facing cottages
Suresh Kumar GM
they serve up the most exotic cocktails. A
and deluxe rooms, the resort houses three top-notch
massive 105 metre long swimming
banqueting facilities of varying
pool, a spa by a well-equipped
capacities, two specialty
health club and an ayurveda
Ramada Resort
Feel the balmy weather
N
estled in a picture-perfect
Kumbalam backwater is part of
restaurants, a lounge bar, a library
centre are the facilities that make
locale, amidst an
the famed Vembanad Lake and the
bar and a sunken pool bar.
Ramada Resort the most sensible
ambience of absolute
resort is just 17 km from Kochi
The spa offers more than 25
choice for a relaxing stay while in
serenity, Ramada Resort is a
and 45 minutes’ drive from Cochin
varieties of herbal and western
Cochin. The sunken pool bar
haven of leisure for the city-weary
International Airport.
massages to treat yourself to foot
Stroke attached to the meandering
reflexology and leave the seat to
pool, where guests can sip on
retreat set within eight sprawling
super luxury rooms with open
relax your body. Club 11 Hundred,
their favourite drink while enjoying
acres, beside the picturesque
glass door that steps into the
the main bar offers the irresistible
a relaxing dip, gives a totally new
lakes of Kumbalam, in the
balcony. The pool stretches to 110
combination of great music,
experience.
outskirts of Cochin. The
metres in front of you and almost
excellent food and a fine selection
www.ramadacochin.com
soul. Ramada Resort is a luxury
It has 24 pool-facing villas and
Mist y Mountain Resort
Gateway to Munnar
W
ith its sprawling tea plantations, pristine valleys and mountains and
optimal haven during any season.
rooms. The main attractions here are the
Located at the gateway to Munnar, the
themed multi-cuisine restaurant, 3000 sq ft
Misty Mountain resort has 50 well-appointed
banquet space, Karoake and rooftop bonfire
is rated so high with holidaymakers. Located
rooms which include 39 double rooms, six
facilities, an entertainment centre, toddler play
only seven kilometres before
deluxe rooms, three suites and two family
area and a quaint gym.
cool air, it’s no surprise that Munnar
reaching Munnar town,
Designed to balance form with function
beside the national highway,
and provide the ultimate setting for work, rest
yet far away to provide an
and play, it offers a fine array of the finest
environment free from the
amenities and dining spaces. The resort
distractions of daily business
portraying Victorian architecture is quite
life, the Misty Mountain
contemporary and in harmony with its
resort overlooks panoramic vistas of the Sahyadri
surroundings. The luxury of the setting will be Suresh P. MD
matched only by the impeccable service and
mountain ranges, verdant tea
attention to detail that leave the guests with a
gardens and even a distant lake. Savour the
memorable experience. The amazing scenic
delights of a sleek mountain-side resort, with
views from the comfort of the valley view
Victorian architecture and colourful and fun
rooms are simply awe-inspiring. True to its
interiors. Warm up by the fire amidst the hues
name, by sundown the resort is enveloped in
of nature and sip a drink while absorbing the
veils of mist, offering the guests a picture
stunning valley view from the comfort of your
perfect mountain holiday experience.
room, for the misty Mountain resort offers an
www.mistymountainresort.in
PARTNER COUNTRY HOSPITALITY PARTNER
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SEPTEMBER 2011
HOSPITALITY
Sagara Beach Resort
Caressed by the serene sea
O
verlooking and sharing the light house beach, the southern most and most popular part of the crescentshaped Kovalam Beach, Sagara Beach Resort welcomes you with white sand stretched over miles of romantic coastline. The three-star Sagara resort is constructed in three blocks and has 92 spacious and elegant air conditioned rooms, divided into A/c standard garden view, A/c deluxe, Palace sea view, suites and honeymoon suites. Each room has a balcony, with sea view through the coconut palm fronds that gently sway to the rhythm of the everpresent and soothing sea
breeze. It houses a roof-top multicuisine restaurant, overlooking the Light House beach and the Arabian Sea, where the moistureladen seabreeze refreshes you all day and night. It Sisupalan MD serves mouth-watering Indian, Chinese, Thai and Continental delicacies. The polite and helpful personnel look after your needs promptly and precisely. There are two state-of-theart swimming pools, with crystal-clear water reflecting
the azure sky above and green coconut umbrellas around. The ayurvedic spa at the resort offers massage treatments for various diseases. The treatment is conducted under the expert supervision of Dr V Franklin, who has forty years of experience in
the field. Then, there is a yoga centre where qualified yoga gurus (Teachers) give training and teach the intricacies of the science of yoga. Facilities for short-term yoga treatments are also provided. www.sagarakovalam.com
Greenwoods
In tune with the nature
E
ldorado for nature lovers
romantic honeymoon cottages lie
the breeze to
may sound cliché but
on a quaint hill, surrounded by
caress your
nothing better describes
spice plantation, besides being
being by
breathtaking view of nature at its
Greenwoods. Aptly located amidst
just a stone’s throw away from the
relaxing on the
best. Greenwoods is also
the soul-soothing mountain
ThekkadyPeriyar Tiger Reserve.
hammocks set
equipped with all the facilities to
up just for you,
conduct official conferences with
outside the
a fully equipped conference hall,
cottages. From
the ‘Bodhi’. The restaurants
elephant rides,
‘Amrutham’ and ‘Naadan’ serve
One word that aptly describes
ranges, picture book lakes and shimmering rivers in the lush
Green Woods is tranquility. Get
valleys of Thekkady, Greenwoods
away from the bustling city life,
is not just another resort that
endless deadlines and chaotic
offers you only a fine stay. Along
way of life. At Green Woods, you
trekking, and boating to bird
the authentic tastes of North
with all amenities 26 cozy and
decide what’s best for you - a visit
watching, bullock cart ride and
Indian, Continental, Chinese and
well-appointed cottages and two
to the nearby tourist spots, an
walks through the plantation,
the traditional Kerala cuisine. Live
undisturbed
Greenwoods offer you an
cooking demos and recipes are
expedition
assortment of activities to keep
also given by specialist chefs
over the lake
that adrenaline pumping.
every day. Tucked away in a silent
or just looking
TRAVEL PARTNER
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SEPTEMBER 2011
Shinto K. Jose, Manager Business Development & Brand Building
‘Arthreya’, the Ayurvedic centre
nook in the heart of the ever-
over the acres
offer you a magical rejuvenating
charming Thekkady, Greenwoods
of greenery
experience that assures peace to
offers more than the enigmatic
from your
mind, body and soul. ‘Poyka’, a
beauty and sublime solitude of the
cottage, with a
swimming pool that makes you
wilderness. An open rabbit park, a
hot cup of
feel like floating through a tranquil
separate butterfly garden and a
coffee in
jungle lake. ‘Ambara’ is a treetop
rose garden will testify it.
hand. Allow
that gives you an amazingly
www.greenwoods.in PARTNER COUNTRY
HOSPITALITY PARTNER
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HOSPITALITY
T & U Leisure Hotel
An ideal hideout amidst the tea plantations
U
nending expanse of tea
The multi-cuisine restaurant
plantations, pristine
‘Top Station’, serves very delicious
valleys and mountains,
food to the guests. With a seating
exotic species of flora and fauna
(theatre style) capacity of 120
in its wild sanctuaries and forests,
people, conference hall at T&U is
aroma of spice scented cool air -
perhaps the most ideal hideout to
yes! T & U Leisure Hotel in
mix business
Munnar has
with pleasure.
all these
It is well
and more.
designed with
It’s a place
sober and
you would
striking colours
love to visit
and state-ofSumesh Joseph Director
- a place you would never wish to
outdoors add to the details of the
Munnar town and is close to all
leave. T & U Leisure Hotel is a 3-
evolution of the tea industry. In a
the site seeing areas. The rooms
star hotel surrounded by lush
way, if you look closely, the
are very spacious and categorised
conferencing facilities for a
green valleys and various
leisure hotel has
into 16 standard rooms, 10
successful event. The group will
plantations. It offers picturesque
just become the
deluxe, three suite rooms and one
be launching Kofiland, its new
sights and scenes that enthral the
‘and’ between Tea
honeymoon cottage connected to
resort in the heart of coffee
guests. The plush 30 rooms, the
& you. The hotel
a small hanging bridge. All the
plantation at Thekkadi, soon.
interiors, the lobby and the
is just one kilometre away from
rooms are facing the valley.
www.tanduleisurehotel.com
the-art videoaudio
Carmelia Haven
The seventh heaven!
T
here is a wonderful aroma
melting away. Take in the beauty
absolute silence and fresh air. The
of herbs and spices
of plantations that stretch over
fully equipped ayurveda centres
comfort and happiness. The
surrounding the Carmelia
hectares of land and devour the
regain all the vitality of your true
spacious deck has a seating
Haven. Carmelia Haven is a
greenery with all its splendour
self and
capacity of fifty
plantation resort of different
and natural charm.
completely
for a grand
refresh the
party or family
varieties of spices like cardamom,
At a height of 4000 ft above
pepper, clove, nutmeg, ginger,
sea level, the rooms at Carmelia
tourist.
get-together.
cinnamon and many more. Set in
Haven Resort are categorised into
Kolumban, the
The Town
the midst of captivating greenery
cave room, suite room, deluxe
multi-cuisine
House is a
and nestled right under the never-
cottage, honeymoon cottage and deluxe room, all overlooking the
restaurant and Scaria Jose Director
the open restaurant
service Unnikrishnan Nair GM
apartment in the heart of the
lush green
serves a wide array of delicacies
city in Kochi that offers a
plantation. The
to the tourists. ‘Nattukoottam’ the
comfortable stay for the guest to
exotic rooms and
conference hall can accommodate
enjoy every moment during their
circular cottages
up to 300 people in theatre style.
stay. Kailasam, an exceptionally
provide privacy
Spice routes luxury houseboat
beautiful property of Carmelia
combined with
‘cardamom’ is par with the five
Haven offers long strolls of
luxury, to suit the
star facilities and has two
plantations and tea processing
needs and moods
spacious rooms- Alleppey Green
factory for the tourists to enjoy
ending blue expanse of the sky, in
of the tourist.
Bold and Njallany, which are fully
every moment of their stay with
Carmelia Haven, Thekkady, you
The tree-top wood cabins
air conditioned and splendidly
mountain safaris, bird watching
can feel your tense muscles
‘Erumadom’ and the specially
decorated with all modern
and trekking.
starting to relax and the stress
created underground cellar give
amenities for your complete
www.carmeliahaven.com
PARTNER COUNTRY HOSPITALITY PARTNER
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HOSPITALITY
The Silver Tips
Where you are the Star
N
estled in the picture perfect foothills of Munnar, the Silver Tips, with its ‘Classic Movies’ theme, is a perfect place to spend quality time with your family members. It is an architectural marvel inspired from the contemporary style. The façade is impressive and reflects classiness. The bedrooms, the lounge Mughal-e-Azam, the Indian and multi-cuisine restaurant Mayabazar and the coffee shop Sound of Music, complement the architectural beauty. The premium resort mirrors the world of movies. Its décor and ambience reflect
the grit and glamour of the silver screen, right from the lounge and lift lobbies, to the rooms and restaurants. Most of the sights seem familiar from the world of cinema and its magic beckons at every turn. James Mathew It begins with Managing Director the grandeur and rich ornamentation of the Mughal-e-Azam lounge and it extends to the mythical appeal of the multi-cuisine Mayabazar restaurant and runs to the Sound of Music coffee shop, where you can imbibe the best of Munnar’s
PARTNER COUNTRY HOSPITALITY PARTNER
190
teas, while tucking into delicious vegetarian fare. It has 48 executive rooms and two suites. The rooms are spacious and offer a panoramic view of the pristine Munnar, so that you can enjoy the scenic beauty every moment, even if you are indoors. Every room has a theme taken from a popular movie from the international or Indian arena. It is reflected in the décor through the props
with indoor games and the well-stocked Behind the Scenes video library, which lends DVDs, books and magazines, help you get rid of the blues on a rainy day. If you are a fitness fanatic, there is the Off Screen multigym. And if you prefer being pampered, there is an ayurvedic spa that relieves stress and rejuvenates your body. While the fun of films can
used in the sets. The barn doors are something that will take you to a different world, the glamorous world of movies. Impressive and tastefully appointed designs make the lounge Mughal-e-Azam a class apart. The Persian inspired décor is sure to take you to the era of the great classics. This delightful dip into celluloid dreams and dramas continues the way up to the spacious Megaplex conference hall, with state-of-the-art facilities that can be used for corporate conclaves or friendly get-togethers. The Interlude recreational area
make your family’s holiday in Munnar an unforgettable one, do not forget that this hill station of breathtaking beauty is surrounded by places worth a visit at any time of the year. The Silver Tips, the EVM group’s foray into the hospitality segment, lacks no modern amenity. There is satellite television and directdial telephones with voice mail in all the rooms. It is worth mentioning top-class service from a team of courteous and efficient staff, including room service waiters, who bring you a bottle of water with a smile even at two in the morning. www.silvertipsmunnar.com
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HOSPITALITY
Travancore Court
is an ideal venue for conferences,
Royal experience
functions. The hotel is renowned
T
he hospitality industry of
seminars, meetings and banquet for its catering services. The East India Company, the multi-cuisine
Junction railway station.
restaurant at
The ethnic interiors remind us
the Queen of the Arabian
of the exotic and royal style of
Travancore
Travancore Court. Designed for
living, equipped with modern
Court is
people seeking both business and
facilities for the convenience of
spacious and
pleasure, the Travancore Court is
guests. There are over half a
offers a wide
one of the quality accommodation
dozen suites that overlook the
relishing
Sea is now ruled by the
providers in the heart
magnificent Arabian
of Cochin. The hotel
Sea. There is also an
Suresh Sukumar, GM
spread of Kerala,
finely blends
aesthetically designed
Moghlai, Chinese and Continental
traditional interior
lounge in the seventh
cuisines. The coffee shop, made
styling, with
floor, which guests
contemporary
can use. The hotel rooms
comforts and
are imbued with
celebrates the culture of the land, with its antiques,
character and individuality
furniture, murals and paintings.
complete with polished wooden
Close to all major shopping
floors, chesterfield sofas and
and business centres in Cochin, it
metal crafted cots. The suites in
is 45 minutes drive from the
Travancore Court Hotel have
Cochin International Airport to the
luxurious living rooms and
Travancore Court and just five
sumptuous bedrooms. You can
minutes away from the Ernakulam
soak in the sheer luxury of the
spacious presidential suite, which has a jacuzzi, bar counter and exotic décor. The Travancore Court comprises of 50 well-appointed luxurious rooms, which include 13 deluxe, 30 suites, six executive suites and one presidential suite. Banqueting facilities are also available in the hotel for making your parties memorable. The Travancore Court hotel in Cochin
distinctive by its exquisite décor, serves lip-smacking Italian and Mediterranean fare and a rich array of desserts. At The news room, its themebased coffee shop, one can sip delicious coffee and bite into scrumptious snacks, while flipping through newspapers and magazines or chatting with friends. www.travancorecourt.com
Poovar Ayur veda Village
For a perfect ayurvedic experience
P
oovar is an explorer’s
experienced doctors and
wash over you.
haven, where an island of
masseurs, who apply the
The Poovar
indescribable beauty
traditional know-how with care, at
Island Resort
awaits you, just 30 kilometres
the right places to maximise the
has 78 cottages
away from Thiruvananthapuram.
healing potential. The resort offers
in different
Poovar Island Resort has created
a thoughtfully crafted package of
categories,
a perfect ambiance to enjoy,
therapies designed to relax,
including land
understand and
refresh and
cottages,
absorb the ancient
rejuvenate its
premium land
remedies of
guests. Therapies
cottages,
ayurveda. The resort
and treatments on
superior land
has an exclusive
offer include those
of facilities to ensure complete
ayurvedic treatment and
satisfaction of the guests. Its
rejuvenation centre in ‘Ayurveda
facilities and services for guests
Village’, with all the facilities and a
include fully equipped gym, health
medicinal ‘Herbarium’, providing
and reflexology massage centre,
effective and long-term benefits of
for rejuvenation, purification,
ayurveda. The ‘Ayurveda Village’
immunisation, stress management
cottages, floating cottages,
currency exchange, beach
is one of the few places where
and weight loss. Feel the
ayurveda cottages and ayurveda
volleyball, indoor games, pool
6,000-year old ancient healthcare
pressures and tensions seep out
deluxe cottages.
bar, swimming pool, sports and
system is still practiced in its
of your mind and soul. And let the
The Poovar Island Resort
purest form. They have a team of
tranquillity of Poovar Island Resort
provides a comprehensive range
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shopping boutique, foreign
recreational facilities, etc. www.poovarislandresort.com PARTNER COUNTRY
HOSPITALITY PARTNER
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HOSPITALITY
Alila Diwa Goa
Experience the traditional Goan essence
A
lila Diwa Goa is just 20 minutes from Goa Dabolim International Airport, near the Majorda beach. Relaxation reigns here amid a serene landscape of lush, verdant rice plantations flowing towards the Arabian Sea. It is like entering a sanctuary of contemporary elegance inspired by traditional Goan design - steeply pitched roofs, ceiling high columns, cool veradahs and tranquil courtyards. Whether enjoying an intimate couple’s retreat, or a getaway for the entire family, the resort’s 153 rooms and suites offer ample space, comfort and serenity. The hotel is equipped with a grand ballroom, two meeting rooms with sophisticated and technologically advanced conference facilities and a large outdoor lawn that can accommodate up to 300 persons. The resort boasts of intelligent design, reminiscent of traditional Goan and Portuguese aesthetics and architecture, with contemporary functionality. Alila Diwa Goa Hotel offers different types of rooms- terrace, loft, family terrace, diwa suite and alila suite,
PARTNER COUNTRY HOSPITALITY PARTNER
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engage and excite your taste buds, with an ever-changing menu that ranges from light and refreshing to fine dining. At the heart of Alila Diwa Goa is an infinity pool that extends out into the paddy terraces. The guests at the hotel can enjoy two innovative and diverse restaurants featuring a fusion of modern and rustic ambience and Saji Joseph contemporary interior GM design, with live kitchens serving eclectic cuisines. It has six live kitchens offering a variety of cuisines spanning both international and local. The edge bar is an edgy all day lounge bar, offering premium wines and cocktails. Alila Diwa’s new diwa wing is designed as an enclave of exclusivity, boasting its own lap pool, with an open air jacuzzi and a hot tub. At the Bistro restaurant, the dedicate culinary team will delight guests with its home-made specialties catering to every palate. Guests can enjoy an all-day breakfast menu or the menu of the month, featuring fresh seasonal delicacies. www.alilahotels.com/diwagoa
designed for quiet indulgence. The rooms and suites are designed with an amazing bath experience, luxury bedding and a private terrace, to take in the picturesque setting. Spread across 300 square meters, the hotel lobby is reminiscent of a traditional chapel that opens into the courtyard. Threebedroom presidential Ankur Rastogi villa comes with a Director S & M private plunge pool and a villa host, offering an unprecedented level of private space at 3,800 square feet. Overlooking the hotel pool and surrounding paddy fields, Vivo, one of its restaurants, offers a relaxed ambience for all-day dining within its airconditioned and shaded open-air spaces. On the menu is a delicious mix of international, local and pan-Asian flavours, with plenty of healthy choices to suit every palate. An elaborate breakfast spread of Western and Indian dishes is complemented by items fresh from the bakery, fresh fruits, gourmet teas and Alila’s special blend coffee. At lunch and dinner, five ‘live’ counters will TRAVEL PARTNER
ASIAN TRAVELLER
SEPTEMBER 2011
HOSPITALITY
Hindustan Beach Retreat
spectacular view of the sea. Up
souls on the legendary
here, you can unwind, watch a
Papanasam Beach as it is
Feel the waves
perfect sunset or sunrise and let
believed that the waters of the sea
its chef pamper your taste buds
absolves the sins and gives
with a wide bouquet of seafood
peace. Varkala is also renowned
from exotic starters to elaborate
for its 2000 year old Janardhna
set overlooking the pool with a
continental and ethnic fare. You
Temple, the Sivagiri Mutt, etc. The
view of the blue sea beyond.
can even savour the fresh catch of
resort is accessible by road and
the sea.
connected by train to other major
D
riving down the quiet
with fine fabrics,
roads in the quaint little
exotic furnishing
town of Varkala is itself a
and silver
memorable experience. To your
turtles. The
surprise, the sea rises up to meet
resort offers
you at the end of the road. And,
some of the
as you step out into the beautiful
most modern
setting of Hindustan Beach
amenities to its
Retreat, the sheer closeness to
guests. The pool
the wide expanse of blue seas,
side restaurant
takes your breath away. Hindustan
with its exquisite wood work has a
Beach Retreat is well placed on
beautiful ambience. It is a place to
Anil Kumar Partner
the sandy
relax and enjoy a
Papanasam beach
mouth watering
at Varkala and
array of food -
hence a perfect
Indian, Chinese
destination for an
and continental.
enchanting beach
The restaurant is
holiday. The resort has 27 well appointed rooms, each one with a
Its seafood specialty
great view of the sun and the
restaurant is appropriately located
sand. The rooms are embellished
on the roof top, with the most
ASIAN TRAVELLER
SEPTEMBER 2011
The place is renowned for doing the rituals for departed
towns. www.hindustanbeachretreat.com
193
HOSPITALITY
Grand Plaza
Live the royal way
G
rand Plaza, Munnar is a premium property from EVM Group, one of
Kerala’s leading business houses.
tea plantations. The rooms are
It is a place that convenes
classified into Elegance,
ambience of the
Ambience and
scenic vistas of
Suite-rooms.
green nature
Each room is
without
exquisitely
requirement, while Ambience
cuisine restaurant at Grand Plaza
compromising
furnished, with
offers real cozy rooms with
with majestic setting, serves
in luxury, food
all modern
unmatchable amenities and
Indian, Chinese and Continental
facilities. The
breathtaking views of lush-green
cuisines. The round the clock
hotel provides
Kannandevan hills. Its Eminence
restaurant offers quality service
a soothing
suites are luxurious and spacious
and a discrete atmosphere.Grand
and mist filled valley. Grand Plaza is a great
Dr. Xavier Mathew M.D. MD
Srijeet Teqedat GM
place to relax and unwind. Fresh
ambiance and perfect setting for a
and come with a separate living
Tee Off, the fully equipped board
greenery adorns the entire
romantic getaway. Its elegant
room, dining space and dressing
room, overlooking the golf course
landscape, with plenty of lighting.
rooms are well appointed to
area. Here you will be treated like
can accommodate 150 people. It
pamper you for an unforgettable
a king with uncompromising
is an ideal setting for corporate
furnished spacious rooms,
vacation by emphasizing even on
service.
events.
offering a breathtaking view of the
the minute of the details of your
The hotel offers 39 elegantly
Grand Spices, the multi-
www.grandplazamunnar.com
Lulu
Making ever y event special
L
uLu International
conference. This is the right place
contemporary weddings. Lulu
three different halls and can seat
Convention Centre and
for an exciting journey through
features seven upscale venues,
20 to 450 people. The Central
Garden Hotels is the largest
scintillating cultural and mega
which can accommodate up to
Courtyard Lulu Greens is a lush,
convention centre in Kerala and
events, most
5000 people at a time. The Non A/
green, open air venue apt for
the second largest in India. This is
memorable
c banquet hall Lotus can
evening functions and get-
a place for the connoisseurs, who
dance, music
accommodate
togethers. It can easily seat up to
seek a different setting for any
concerts,
1000 people,
2000 people.The place also holds
wonderful event. With a built-up
marriage
while its Grand
Lulu Garden hotels, with 30 fully
area of 150000 sq ft, the sheer
functions,
Hall is
air-conditioned luxurious
spaciousness and opulence of the
product
equipped with
executive rooms and five suites,
launches or
the most
with double occupancy. The Clay
stays. LuLu,
modern audio-
venue is enough to take anyone’s breath away! Situated in the
M. A. Yusuffali MD, EMKE Group
Oven restaurant at Lulu offers Jose Sebastian GM
international cuisines for the
cultural capital of the God’s own
which has entered into its fifth
visual facilities.
country, LuLu offers a fusion of
year, has become a landmark of
The mini
gourmet’s delight. It also has a
the contemporary and the
Trissur as the most sought-after
conference hall Safina is an air-
well-equipped health club and a
traditional look, providing a venue
MICE destination in India. Lulu
conditioned and carpeted hall,
kid’s play park, for recreation.
that enhances and an ambience
also promotes hitherto unknown
which can be segregated into
www.luluicc.in
that indulges. As one of the most
Trissur, drawing travellers to the
advanced conference facilities,
destination. It has hosted several
this is where your events turn
international and national level
extraordinary and your stay
conferences, seminars,
becomes exemplary.
exhibitions, meets and more. At
The Lulu in Trissur is a
the same time, LuLu is also the
peaceful retreat into a formal
most sought-after venue for
business meeting, convention or
theme-based traditional and
PARTNER COUNTRY HOSPITALITY PARTNER
194
TRAVEL PARTNER
ASIAN TRAVELLER
SEPTEMBER 2011
HOSPITALITY
Surya Samudra
The Sun and the Sea
F
ringed by headlands that rise steeply above the shore, Kovalam is almost completely covered by coconut palms. With three adjacent crescent beaches and a massive rocky promontory on the beach, Kovalam has created a beautiful bay of serene waters. The breathtaking lighthouse, the swaying palms, the rocky cliffs and the unspoilt beaches are just some of the features that make Kovalam an integral part of the Kerala experience. And, Surya Samudra, a perfect blend of style, convenience and commitment to tradition, is located 30 miles from the tip of the subcontinent, a few minutes from the historic Vizhinjam harbour and the first property in Kovalam that gives the discerning traveller an opportunity Anju Chandrasekhar to stay in and experience MD a traditional home. Surya Samudra make you feel doing nothing, but soak in the sun, going for a leisurely swim, or gorging on fresh seafood. The lure of golden sunshine, soft sand and clear blue waters is all what welcomes you to Surya Samudra. Set in inspiring environs, every room of the hotel overlooks the sea and the sprawling lawn stretches up to the beach. In its very design, location and ambience,
it captures the essence of the sun, the sand and the sea. Visitors can surf on the waves, taste some of the best seafood delicacies or simply let the calm of the deep blue overwhelm you. One of the greatest symbols of Kerala’s eco-conscious architecture is the ancient homestead - the Tharavadu house. Surya Samudra Kovalam is where that glorious era of architecture has been saved from extinction. The terracotta roofs, tiled floors, wooden pillars and ornate doors evoke a heady sense of romance with the past. Every article of furniture, painting, and decoration is a handpicked page out of history. Of course, to keep in tune with the times, each residence comes complete with all modern amenities. Some of these residences stand graciously on a cliff offering magnificent views of the sea. Others sit snugly in palm groves that dot the hillside. Oottupura, the sea facing all day dining restaurant open round the clock and offers a combination of global cuisine and Kerala. Kanal, the grill, offers an eclectic array of evening specials, hot off the coals. Madira, the poolside bar, presents views of an endlessly stretching Arabian Sea. Spa Niraamaya at Surya Samudra Private Retreats draws the best from natural therapeutic traditions across the world to reinvigorate, rejuvenate and restore your mind, body and soul. Spa
TRAVEL PARTNER
ASIAN ASIAN TRAVELLER TRAVELLER
SEPTEMBER SEPTEMBER 2011 2011
Niraamaya offers traditional ayurveda and yoga, authentic Thai therapies, Chinese treatments like reflexology and the best of European natural healing practices. The newly introduced Jetlag therapy, signature baths and scrubs show its continuous efforts at innovation. The extensive offerings make Spa Niramaya a truly unique experience. Surya Samudra Private Retreats, the hospitality arm of Jupiter Capital Group, plans to develop five similar boutique properties in spectacular locations like Wayanad, Goa, Chikamangalur, Kumarakom and Puducherry. www.suryasamudra.com
PARTNER COUNTRY HOSPITALITY PARTNER
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HOSPITALITY
Fortune Hotels
First-class, full-service business hotel
F
ortune Park Hotels, a
Park Orange, Manesar, in the near
attentive service and competitive
wholly owned subsidiary of
future.
pricing, has made it popular with
upscale hotels in the 4+ to 5 star
travellers in all categories, both
category, offering contemporary
domestic and international.
product and services, located at
The chain offers full service
ITC Ltd, is a professionally
The ‘Fortune Select’ are
managed hotel management
without compromising on quality,
company, with 63 alliances across
at a very people-friendly price.
business locations in metros, mini
47 cities. Set up 1995 to cater to
While business travel accounts for
metros and key leisure locations.
the first class market segment in
much of its revenue, convenient
business and leisure destinations,
locations, excellent cuisine,
The ‘Fortune Park’ hotels are business hotels in the mid-scale,
today it has emerged as
between 3-4 star categories, while
one of the fastest
the ‘Fortune Inn’ hotels are full
growing hotel chains in
service business hotels with 30 to
the first-class, full-
50 rooms. Patronised mainly by
service business hotel
business travellers, the chain
segment in India.
attracts a large number of leisure
The chain has
travellers, with its convenient
extensive expansion
locations, service quality and
plans and it is likely to
excellent cuisine. ‘Fortune
open Fortune Select The
Holidays’ has been created to
Savoy, Mussoorie;
specially cater to the domestic
Fortune Park Aruna,
leisure segment.
Chennai and Fortune
www.fortunehotels.in
The Dune
A thematic hotel with soul and comfort
D
esigned to cater to the growing demand for long stay destinations, The Dune, spreads on 35 acres with
unique 30 aesthetic villas and 20 rooms that fuse modern and traditional architecture, swimming pool, organic farm, tennis court and 700 m of sea front, is located 150 kilometres south of Chennai and just 15 kilometres from Pondicherry. At Dune, cultures, ideas and people merge with one another. Being one of the quality accommodation providers in Pondicherry, with timely
It houses an organic farm, swimming pool,
Since there is a refreshing sea breeze most
innovations and due up-gradations, the Dune
of the time, some of the accommodations are
tennis court and 700 metres of sea front. Its
has added two wood houses, the pool house
not air-conditioned. Built using reclaimed
two restaurants, Fun and the Lounge serve
and the courtyard house
building material from South
healthy gourmet fusion food, prepared using
recently, to its attractions.
Indian colonial houses,
organically farmed vegetables. The seafood
Chettinad palaces and Kerala
bar serves fresh seafood cooked in the grill,
sparsely spread and discreetly
planter's mansions, the
the barbecue or the tandoor, with fresh salads,
hidden over 30 acres beside
accommodation facilities are
sandwiches, snacks and drinks. The paradise
Each one of the bungalows
the beach front is known for its unique
fully equipped with solar hot water system,
spa, one of its attractions, offers ayurvedic
furniture, facilities and size. They offer rooms
low consumption bulbs and waste water
treatments, yoga and meditation as well as
ranging from ones for couples to ones for
treatment plant.
many alternative therapies, including Watsu,
families or friends with lounge and private gardens.
The commitment to reduce the impact on
magic water treatments.
the environment is always upheld by the Dune.
www.thedunehotel.com
PARTNER COUNTRY HOSPITALITY PARTNER
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TRAVEL PARTNER
ASIAN TRAVELLER
SEPTEMBER 2011
HOSPITALITY
Ambica Empire
Luxur y at its best luxury hotel. Green chillies, its coffee shop,
extensive range of fine wines,
will let you relax and enjoy your
liquors and cigars. Its spa Ambica
coffee moment with one of those
Empire offers a complete range of
delicious treats sure to satisfy
services for body, mind and spirit.
you. Also, the Royal Palate
A
cosy and intimate, with an
The Ambica Empire is an
restaurant is specially designed to
inspired choice of venue for a
stir the senses with international
meeting, conference, seminar or
flair and to entice your
any occasion. It has
mbica Empire, the hotel
people, a multi-cuisine restaurant,
palates. At the Royal
four conference rooms
with a heart, is standing
a coffee shop, a fantastic live pub
Palate, experience the
and private dining in
fabulously in the
and a latest spa, for the business
luxury of flawless
different sizes and
downtown of Chennai, with a
and luxury travellers. This hotel is
service and exquisite
decorative styles, for
unique and royal ambience.
truly at par with any luxury hotel in
cuisines in a
200 to 600 guests. The
Ambica exudes a graceful and
any part of the world. Ambica
distinguished setting. The
service begins from the moment
timeless elegance, blending a
offers an array
restaurant offers a truly distinctive
you decide to stay. The hotel and
sense of the past with what is
of personal
atmosphere, perfect for any
the team have been meeting the
contemporary. Hotel Ambica
comforts
occasion. Palate includes flavours
standards of contemporary
Empire is in the forefront of
reflecting its’
from traditional south and north
hospitality. The group is also on a
creating new hospitality
belief in the
Indian to Chinese and Italian.
major expansion spree, with new
experiences for the discerning
highest
travellers.
standards.
contemporary bar, is the place
states. Hotel Ambica Empire, the
Come and melt
where atmosphere radiates the
hospitality division of the Ambica
into your room,
sophisticated allure of today’s
Group, also has interests in real
The hotel is located centrally,
Kalathinathan GM
with close proximity to the nodes
Million Dollars, the
properties coming up in different
of transport and major business
decorated and adorned with rich
generation with a wide variety. It is
estate, multiplexes, complexes
and shopping centres. It houses
colours, vibrant artwork and spoil
an ideal venue for pre or post-
and non-conventional energy
90 well appointed rooms, five
yourself with everything a traveller
dinner drinks or a simple evening
generation.
banquet halls seating 20 to 500
should expect from a first-class
cocktail. The pub at Ambica is
www.ambicaempire.com
Cosmos Tours and Travels
The perfect travel partner
W
ith the Arabian Sea in
Tours and Travels, a leader in the
ayurveda packages, spiritual
UK. Cosmos Tours & Travels is
the west, the Western
field of travel and tourism, helps
packages, conference and
recognised by Ministry of Tourism,
Ghats in the east and
you decide what is best for you in
convention arrangements,
government of India and an
the Gods’ own land.
houseboat and motor boat cruise,
accredited tour operator of Kerala
professional guide services,
tourism. It is also a member of
network of 44 rivers, Kerala enjoys unique geographical features that
Cosmos is
have made it one of the most
endowed with
contract services, railway ticket
IATO, KTM and ATTOI. It offers
sought after tourist destinations in
quality services
booking, sightseeing tours and
round the clock service with both
Asia. Coconut groves, paddy
to esteemed
anytime airport/railway station
A/c and non A/c vehicles. The
fields, sun kissed beaches,
clients at the
transfers etc. Cosmos Tours and
reservations, service staff and
emerald backwaters, verdant hills,
most
Travels in Thiruvananthapuram,
drivers are professionally trained
affordable and
established in 2000, is equipped
and service oriented. Above all,
reasonable
with modern fleet of luxury cars
hassle free bookings, reasonable
prices. It offers
and coaches ranging from Indica
rates and prompt services make
rain forests, exotic wildlife, P.S. Chandrasenan CEO
breathtaking waterfalls, ayurvedic health holidays, enchanting art forms, magical festivals,
a wide range of services like
cars to large luxury coaches to
Cosmos Tours and Travels the
architectural monuments and lot
airline booking, worldwide hotel
suit your needs. It has branch
favorite travel partner for tourists
more - the Gods’ own country has
reservations, tailor-made tour
offices in Kochi and Bengaluru
worldwide.
something for everyone. Cosmos
packages, honeymoon trips,
and associate offices in UAE and
TRAVEL PARTNER
ASIAN TRAVELLER
SEPTEMBER 2011
www.cosmoskerala.com PARTNER COUNTRY
HOSPITALITY PARTNER
197
HOSPITALITY
Edasser y Kayal Resort
Backwaters, nature and more
A
t Edassery Kayal Resort
conditioned and the specially
Kumarakom, you do not
designed cottages present an
have to go for the
room overlooks the lake. It houses Rani, a multi cuisine
fine cuisine and most modern facilities, for discerning business
exquisite array of amenities and
restaurant that offers Kerala and
travelers. It can accommodate 100
backwaters. It is the place, where
provide all that a guest desires. Its
continental dishes. Another
persons in theatre style and 40
backwaters come to meet you.
sumptuous interiors include
attraction is its 24x7 coffee shop
persons in U shaped
Edassery Kayal Resort is a
ethnic furniture and luxury fittings.
Chithira, which welcomes the
arrangement, with facilities like
paradise untouched and
Stress is given to traditional
guests with specialised coffee,
unexplored, which is spread
patterned furnishings. While its
tea, snacks, etc.
across three
courtyard rooms come with
acres of
private open-sky shower and
conference hall ‘Marthandam’
beautiful
luxurious lawns, each of it deluxe
offers impeccable service, luxury,
The air-conditioned
backwaters. Here, tourists
LCD projector, sound system,
can enjoy the
laptop, internet connection,
glory of Gods own country.
projection screen, etc. To conduct E.J. Davis MD
open air sessions or training
The enchanting
exercises, amphitheatre is an
backwater resort is 15 kilometres
ideal venue. The property is
from Kottayam and 50 kilometres
marketed by Green Shore
from Cochin.
Holidays and Resorts Pvt Ltd.
The rooms are fully air-
www.edasseryresorts.com
Sun Tara Beach Resort
Sea and the beach
T
he Sun Tara Beach Resort
surroundings. The rooms are
in Kovalam is a metaphor
replete with a string of modern
for blissful living.
accessories and they are
Surrounded by natural fabrics, the
categorised
resort has palm trees dancing to
into spacious
the tunes of the soothing sea
suite rooms,
breeze. All of its tastefully
super deluxe
ornamented 12 sea facing rooms
rooms and
come with a host of facilities. With
deluxe rooms. Sun Tara
the offerings such as restaurant, ayurvedic treatment, conference
S. Rajendran MD
Beach Resort
rooms has its own private balcony
professional guest service, with a
is nestled into
overlooking the sea. All rooms are
smiling face. The resort also
services, you will feel truly
the hillock and located off an
air conditioned and have balcony
offers rejuvenation packages,
enlightened in its tranquil
ancient village at Vizhinjam and
sit out over looking the beach, just
including rejuvenation therapy,
hall and other personalised
close to Kovalam beach. Sun
body purification therapy, body
Tara is an ideal resort, where
immunisation/longevity therapy,
you can enjoy the sweet
etc. Rejuvenation therapy includes
fragrance of flowers in the air
body massaging, with hand and
and towering palm trees sway
foot, using medicated oil and
in the air breeze. The
beyond. All rooms are furnished
cream. The treatment is good to
panoramic view that the resort
to international standards and
rejuvenate the body, mind and
offers from its 12 rooms is
there are committed staffs to
soul.
mesmerising. Each one of the
provide you with personalised,
www.suntarabeachresort.com
PARTNER COUNTRY HOSPITALITY PARTNER
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SEPTEMBER 2011
HOSPITALITY
Clouds Valley
For a perfect hillside retreat
C
louds Valley, set against the breathtak ing backdrop of Munnar, is one of the most wonderful hotels to be in. This leisure hotel welcomes you to the beautiful mountain peaks surrounded by a veil of mist, splendid green valleys and twinkling streams. The pristine and unpolluted air, beautiful weather, and remarkably affable ambience of this hillside retreat leaves you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. Clouds Valley, a four star facility hotel in Munnar, caters
to the needs of the business travellers as well as tourists who come to explore this idyllic hill station. The elegant hotel with 54 Rooms is conveniently located in the heart of Munnar and offers you a perfect base for your stay in this tranquil hilly terrain. In the A R Mohan Managing Partner elegantly and attractively designed interiors at Clouds Valley, comfort and style
PARTNER COUNTRY HOSPITALITY PARTNER
200
blend in harmony offering a peaceful ambience for the visitor. Equipped with modern facilities, all the rooms offer an aesthetic and enchanting milieu of Munnar. The Suites and Valley View Rooms help you relax in peace and solitude, after a hard day’s toil. Sanil Managing Partner The comfortable accommodation elevates the guests to a relaxed private space away from the hubbubs of the habitat. The hotel has an exclusive Multi-cuisine Restaurant that serves Continental, Chinese, Indian and South Indian cuisine. Relish the delicious delicacies served for breakfast, lunch and dinner at this restaurant, it will leave you asking for more. The Roof garden Restaurant at Clouds Valley is an ideal choice and venue for formal and family gatherings.
It’s spacious and well furnished Conference halls offer assembly spaces of varying sizes suited for corporate gathering, training courses, meetings, gettogethers and special occasions. The conference and meeting rooms are equipped with the latest audio-visual support, Wi-Fi, wired internet access and gym and spa into its array of service for the guest. The hotel also provides round the clock Reception Travel Desk Facility, Car Rental and secure parking space for vehicles and other
contemporary facilities. In all warmth, the Clouds Valley also offers a multitude of recreation and exciting leisure activities like Angling, Trekking and Plantation tours to unwind in the lap of nature. www.cloudsvalleymunnar.com
TRAVEL PARTNER
ASIAN TRAVELLER
SEPTEMBER 2011
HOSPITALITY
The Quilon Beach Hotel and Convention Centre
Face the sea
T
he Quilon Beach Hotel and Convention Centre, the first fivestar luxury hotel in the southern gateway to the backwaters of Kerala, is ideally located at the serene beach in Kollam, with the pulsating Arabian Sea on one side, M G Park and the main city on the other side. The national waterway, the Ashtamudi Lake, can be seen right in K. Sreekumar front of the CMD hotel. The Quilon Beach Hotel offers seven wonderful views, which include the sea, beach, park, city, greenery, port and backwaters. The Quilon Beach Hotel is a 12-storied centrally air conditioned state-of-the-art hotel, with 95 sea facing rooms. The facilities include a multi-cuisine restaurant, bar, coffee shop, roof top barbeque restaurant, an infinity pool, a roof top pool and an International convention
centre, with a capacity to accommodate 1500 persons. The Infinity pool alongside the restaurant offers a stunning view of the Arabian Sea. Mind blowing blend of blue sky, bright sunlight and the blue sea is sure to lure your senses while you relax in the pool. There is a pool bar to enjoy a few drinks adds to your swimming experience. The Quilon Beach Vineeth K. Nambiar Hotel is all GM geared up to provide professional MICE tourism infrastructure and services, making it an ideal venue for corporate world. Expert event management services are provided by the hotel on a package or customised basis. The participating delegates and executives can enjoy a comfortable stay, with all fivestar facilitates. The hotel also arranges sightseeing trips. There is a 10-room ayurvedic centre, which is run by
PARTNER COUNTRY HOSPITALITY PARTNER
202
Somatheeram Ayurvedic Group. Somatheeram ayurvedic centre at the The Quilon Beach Hotel has 10 sea facing treatment rooms and provide different treatments for body and beauty care. Somatheeram has a team of eminent doctors, providing ayurvedic solutions using herbal ingredients to ameliorate modern day ailments caused by lifestyle iniquities. The 1500 seats international convention centre at The Quilon Beach Hotel is one of the finest conference centres in India. It promises an amazing ambiance, with an excellent beach view and state-of-theart conference facilities. Environmental initiatives
such as energy efficient schemes, re-using of all discharged and waste water for gardening purpose after proper water treatment, adoption of a zero garbage policy, using aerators and flow restrictors in all water taps, etc., have earned The Quilon Beach Hotel an ecofriendly tag. All the 95 rooms are built facing the beach, park, harbour and backwater. The lobby, restaurant and rooms are also designed and arranged in a way that the day light enters and light up the interiors in a most natural way. It reduces the need for artificial lighting during the day time. The hotel is easily accessible by road, rail, sea and backwaters from other important towns in Kerala. www.thequilonbeachhotel.com
TRAVEL PARTNER
ASIAN TRAVELLER
SEPTEMBER 2011
HOSPITALITY
Whispering Meadows
An ideal place to liven up your senses
W
hispering Meadows, a perfect hill-side resort that boasts of the most picturesque tea gardens, green meadows, Blue Mountains and fragrant fresh air, is an ideal place to indulge in the beauty and freshness of Munnar. Positioned at an altitude of 6000 feet, there is something about this resort that will enthrall the mind and liven up the senses. Featuring 21 single/deluxe hill-top cottages, multi-cuisine restaurant and most modern facilities, Whispering Meadows is a perfect hill-side, summer resort. Whispering Meadows offers every comfort one could wish for. You will enjoy the balmy comfort of its single/ deluxe hill-top cottages, fully-furnished from floor to ceiling with a comfortable living space, crisp-and-clean bed, imTRAVEL PARTNER
ASIAN TRAVELLER
SEPTEMBER 2011
maculate bathroom and other luxuries. One can choose from a range of 21 cottages, each overlooking a different view of the spectacular green meadows below.
Here one can savour traditional delicacies and get rejuvenated by ayurveda. The resort is a veritable architectural archive. A perfect blend of tradition and elegance, its charming cottages will offer you a memorable holiday experience. Whispering MeadShibin Joseph ows is now managed Corporate GM and marketed by MIR Hotels and Resorts, one of the leading property chain management companies
in India. MIR Hotels and Resorts owns a distinctive collection of premium properties that reflect the finest in Kerala’s world-renowned hospitality. Every property is chosen, anticipating the expectations of the guests. www.thewhisperingmeadows.com PARTNER COUNTRY
HOSPITALITY PARTNER
203
HOSPITALITY
Cherai Beach Resorts
Experience the tranquility
W
hite sand beaches and
and soothing traditional ayurvedic
the heritage and modern cottages
body, soothe the mind, and feed
the azure waters of the
treatments in this home away from
built around picturesque greenery
the soul.
Arabian Sea greet you
home. Perfect for both the beach
overlooking the clean long beach
at the Cherai Beach Resorts.
lovers and the
at the front and
eatery which
Located at the Gateway of Muziris,
health
serene
serves a
the heritage capital of Kerala, 25
conscious
backwaters
variety of
kms from Cochin International
looking for that
behind. Here
delicacies to
Airport, Cherai Beach Resorts is a
unforgettable
one can
suit your taste.
unique health resort of excellence
experience
experience the
‘Rajadhani’,
perceived and promoted by a
made of sweet
group of enthusiastic doctors.
memories,
Seductive beaches, serene
Cherai Beach
the A/c
harmonious coDr. N.S. Renjith MD
Oottupura is the multi-cuisine
existence of
Dr. N. Madhu Director
man and nature.
conference hall has the
Dr. Ramachandra Menon Director
backwaters, swaying coconut
Resorts is a tranquil oasis, far
The beach is shallow, calm and is
panoramic view of Arabian Sea
lagoons, lush green paddy fields,
from the madding crowd. The
ideal for swimming and
and coconut lagoons, with a
delicious cuisine - the resort
Resort is built for the delightful
sunbathing. Enjoy a game of
capacity of 75 people in
exudes an air of romance and
comfort and holistic well being of
beach volley ball and take a dip in
classroom style and is well
the sea.
furnished with all the modern
To meet the growing demand
quiet warmth, offering splendid
the health conscious nature lover. The resort is exquisitely
escape with discreet
facilities for conferencing.
of long stayers from far and wide,
‘Tharavadu’, the mini A/C
Cherai Beach Resort has
conference hall has the view of
commissioned its second phase
backwaters and coconut lagoons
of the ongoing project with 21
with a capacity of 25 people in
additional luxury villas that makes
classroom style, is a heritage type
66 well-furnished independent
building. Besides the two A/C
Eco-friendly Garden Villas for the
conference halls, Cheral Beach
season. “Green Leaf” accredited
resorts also boasts an open-air
ayurvedic spa performs traditional
banquet hall ‘Koothambalam’,
ayurvedic treatments by
with thatched roof. It has the
specialised practitioners.
view of Arabian Sea with a
Appealing to health conscious
capacity to accommodate 300
understatement, always with a
landscaped with lagoons and
visitors, these time-tested
people.
smile. Enjoy fine dining, sunsets,
canals meandering in and around
remedies will re-energise the
www.cheraibeachresorts.com
Kerala Greener y
Gateway to the Paradise
K
erala Greenery, one of the
you. It offers a large number of
upcoming names in the inbound
packages for Kerala and Lakshadweep.
tour operation sector in Kerala,
The clients are always provided personal
offers the tourists an exciting and
attention from the moment they set foot
memorable holiday. So, if you want to
in Kerala, until they depart. It is always
explore long shorelines with serene
ensured that the money they spent here
beaches,tranquil stretches of emerald
is always worth it. The professional staff
backwaters, lush hill stations and exotic
and English-speaking chauffeurs will
wildlife,waterfalls,sprawling plantations
take care of you for a relaxing and a
and paddy fields, ayurvedic health
comfortable stay. Kerala Greenery’s
holidays, enchanting art forms, the
major clientele are from the UK, EU
magical festivals, historic and cultural
countries, Australia and USA.
monuments, here is a right partner for
www.keralagreenery.org
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Sanjeeva Medical spa
Warmth of holistic treatment
T
he Vedic Village, set over
enhance your body fitness and
150 sprawling acres of
well being. Pursuing holistic
green fields, fertile
package of treatment, Sanjeeva
farmlands, sparkling lakes,
Medical spa aims to render a
coconut groves and a wealth of
balanced mode of treatment, to
flora, is a haven for migratory
your body, mind and soul.
birds, plants, butterflies, squirrels.
Situated amidst acres of
Built within this tranquil sanctuary,
organic farmland, surrounded by
Vedic Village is a world-class spa
tranquil water spots, Sanjeeva
resort.
Medical Spa offers a perfect
Vedic Village offers a wealth of
ambience that can make all the
rejuvenating experiences.
difference. It has a team of highly
Designed to be more than just a
qualified therapists and doctors
relaxing getaway, it combines
dedicated to your wellness.
elements of nature cure and
The nature and range of
holistic remedies to heal, renew
therapies available in the spa can
and energise, its residents and
meet the needs of your body. The
ranges from commonplace
treatment packages consist of
guests.
treatment packages are divided in
therapeutic massage, acupressure
nearly 37 different varieties of
to seven segments, like
massage, to cellulite breakdown
therapies that will make your body
part of the Vedic Village Spa
massages, natural wellness,
and deep tissue massage
and mind rejuvenate, to a new
Resort, offers you an array of
Swedish massages, vedic facials,
technique. They will surrender
plane of existence.
ayurvedic treatment packages, to
vedic glow and exotic therapies.
your body a perfect balance, by
www.thevedicvillage.com
Sanjeeva Medical Spa, integral
The nature of treatments
alleviating muscle tension. The
Southern Travels
Pioneers in tours and travel
S
outhern Travels Pvt Ltd is
Travels has been running
hour airlines reservation counter
a memorable and long cherished
an ISO certified company
international and domestic tours,
(Jet, Sahara & Indian Airlines),
stay. As a result of the company’s
having around four
providing all the facilities for the
package tours all over India, hotel
dedicated services to the tourism
decades of experience in the
domestic/foreign tourists for the
reservations all over India, airport
industry, the Govt of India,
travel and hospitality sphere. The
last 38 years successfully, is a
transfers, tailor-made tours for
Ministry of Tourism has honoured
company has a large network of
testimony and reflection of their
individuals, groups, students,
them with the prestigious National
branches in different places
efficiency,
corporate,
Tourism Award as the Best
across the country. The company
honesty and
business tours,
Domestic Tour Operator in the
is known for individual services,
quality of
car/coach
consecutive years of 2008, 2009
affordable packages, wide
services.
rentals (budget
and 2010.
coverage and transparency. Southern Travels is recognised
& luxury), etc.
As pioneers in the travel business, the
The company receives tourists
Southern Group also runs a hotel, Hotel Southern, in New
by the Ministry of Tourism,
company has a fleet of 50
from Malaysia, Singapore, Sri
Delhi. It is equipped with 100
Government of India and also
coaches/cars of their own, with a
Lanka, Mauritius and South Africa.
rooms that are beautifully
members of several Indian and
network of offices at New Delhi,
Thus, it is playing an important
furnished, with contemporary
international prestigious trade
Mumbai, Chennai, Bengaluru,
role in the development of tourism
décor. Southern Group’s Indian
organisations like International Air
Hyderabad, Visakhapatnam and
and also earning foreign
restaurant is functioning at
Traffic Association, Indian
Vijayawada.
exchange to our country.
Durban South Africa. Very shortly,
Association of Tour Operators and
The Southern Travel provides a
the company would be starting
Pacific Asia Travel Association,
Southern Travels offer include
fleet of ultra modern vehicles, well
three star hotels in Hyderabad
etc.
international/domestic air
designed offices, state-of-the-art
and Jaipur.
ticketing, railway reservation, 24-
infrastructure and gives the guest
www.southerntravelsindia.com
The fact that the Southern
The services that the
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Synergy @ Synergy
C
apitalising on the emerging business opportunities, Synergy Hotels & Resorts, has, over the years, become a known name in the hospitality industry. Since its inception in 2005, working on the synergies of a group of dynamic and experienced professionals, Synergy has successfully established itself as a top-notch hotel and the group has travelled all the paths, including trade shows and events and explored untapped marketing mediums and avenues, to promote the Synergy brand. Apart from general management, Synergy Hotels and Resorts also focuses on conceptualising, site inspection, planning of
facilities, management policies and system, manpower management, F&B management (production and services), purchases, equipment procurement and installation, branding and market positioning of hotels/ resorts/camps/restaurants, etc. With ergonomically designed office space, technically advanced equipment and techno savvy professional team, Synergy group leaves no scope for one to be dissatisfied with their service offerings. The company has established strong presence in Gujarat, Pune and Udaipur. It also has opened sales offices in Mumbai and Bangalore, recently. Looking ahead,
Synergy is planning to diversify base to other cities like Indore, Hyderabad, Chennai, Delhi, Kolkatta, Chandigarh, etc., in the near future. The company, which has forayed into hotel management recently, is working towards achieving excellence, by providing innovative solutions to the hoteliers and hospitality industry. Synergy has hotels such as Hotel Ivy Studios, Pune and Royal Camps, Jaisalmer, under its management. Ivy Studios is a business boutique hotel with 39 contemporary rooms, while Royal Camps is a unique property, with 27 deluxe tents in the Sam Sand Dunes of Jaisalmer. The group has, in its kitty,
hotels like Avenue Regent (Cochin), Greenberg Resorts (Idduki), Siena Village (Munnar), Wild Corridor (Thekkady), Lakesong Resort (Kumarakom), Rain Country Resort (Wayanad), Holiday Inn Resort (Goa), Whispering Palms Beach Resort (Goa), River Country Resort (Manali), Hotel Angel’s INN (Manali), Hotel Nandhana Grand (Bangalore), Hotel Kings Kourt (Mysore), etc. www.synergyhotels.net
Nandhana Group
A known name among business travellers
T
he Nandhana Grand Hotel in Bangalore,
rooms, conferencing facilities, business
a three star hotel, is frequented by the
centres, etc. All rooms and suites promise
business travellers, who flock to the
fresh and distinctive experiences. Sree Nandhini Palace,
garden city.
another venture of the
Here, one can enliven one’s body and soul, by availing a host of recreation facilities
group, gives a whole new
available at the hotel. One can also burn out
experience of fine
those extra calories by working out in the well-
business, combined with
equipped gymnasium or work outs at its
leisure. Accommodation options at this hotel include
fitness centre. Nandhana Hometel, situated at Indiranagar, 39 kilometers from the
Dr. Ravichandar CMD
standard single, standard double and deluxe rooms.
international Airport Bangalore, is the second
All the rooms come with wooden flooring,
venture from Dr. Ravichandar Group, an icon
separate sit out, etc. It houses three different
in hospitality industry, with over two decades
restaurants - Banana Leaf, the traditional
in of experience.
Andhra cuisine restaurant; Sitara, the multi
It caters to the business and leisure requirements, with its 41 tastefully decorated TRAVEL PARTNER
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PROFILE
Rainbow Cruises
A cruising delight for the tourists
R
ainbow Cruises offers you a floating holiday, on the backwaters highway and perhaps the most enchanting holiday experience in the world. Step aboard and the native oars men will take you to an amazing world of delights and tranquillity. You can enjoy the nature in its all splendour and it will surely be a memorable experience for you. Rainbow’s fleet of 24 houseboats comprises premium A/c, deluxe A/c and non A/c house boats, in sleek design, equipped with every luxury and safety measures. They promise customized comfort with a touch of Kerala heritage flair. It boasts an incredibly designed and furnished A/c and non A/c king size bed room, with luxurious twin beds, a table and a chair, storage space and even a
mosquito net, at your disposal. One can relax in style, in the beautifully furnished living room, enjoying the enchanting view of the shimmering seas. Jojy Mathew The Director houseboat is about 18 to 21 meters long and about 5 metres wide at the middle. The hull is made of wooden planks held together
PARTNER COUNTRY HOSPITALITY PARTNER
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by ropes of coconut fibre and the roof is made of bamboo poles and palm leaves. The exterior of the boat is painted with protective coats of cashew nut oil. Cijo Alex The Director Rainbow cruises’ traditional Kettuvallam, which has Gold Star Rating, is equipped with the state-of-the-art luxuries
and safety measures. Each houseboat is of excellent construction and luxurious furnishing, with exquisite flooring, hull and canopy, a sun deck, spacious living and dining area, one to three bedrooms, separate toilets for the crew, spacious passage and a neat, classy kitchen. All materials used on board are eco-friendly, from solar power energy system to the decor. Rainbow Cruises has worked hard to ensure the highest standards and are skilfully equipped, with every safety and luxury amenities on board. The nearest airport Kochi is 85 kms from Alappuzha, while Thiruvananthapuram International Airport is 150 kms from Alappuzha. www.rainbowcruises.in
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Gateway Malabar Holidays (P) LTD
Arab’s own gateway
G
ateway Malabar Holidays Pvt. Ltd., an established destination management company, is known for the Arab tourist movements in Kerala. Founded by Jihad Husain about five years back, the company’s principle is to extend 100 per cent satisfied service to its guests. The company usually counts its success in terms of the satisfaction of the guests. It has got a powerful team that builds strong relationship with the guests. There was a time when Kerala hardly received any arrival during March-October. It was almost at that time, Gateway Malabar Holidays started to promote Kerala to the Arab society. Thus it pioneered a spontaneous change and the premium hotels and resorts in Kerala do not quite have an off-season now. Arabs have a very long standing relationship with India,
particularly Kerala. Nonetheless, India/Kerala was never promoted as a tourism destination. Till Gateway Malabar Holidays initiated the mission, Arabs had no idea that Jihad Husain MD Kerala was such a wonderful touring destination.
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Gateway Malabar Holidays has its own unconventional marketing strategies, to source travellers from West Asia to Kerala. Guests are given 100 per cent comprehensive language support, which is very crucial for Arabs. It hires travel writers (bloggers) to share their experience and it has helped Gateway Malabar Holidays to attract more tourists. Gateway Malabar Holidays value and respect the Arab
culture and ensure that their demands and needs are met completely. The summer vacation of Arabs coincides with the monsoon season of Kerala and Gateway Malabar Holidays is the right partner for Arabs to visit God’s own country, to enjoy ayurvedic therapies. The number of arrivals from Middle East Asia to Kerala during the offseason has considerably gone up nowadays. Gateway Malabar Holidays can certainly be proud, as they initiated this change. The inflow of the guests from West Asia has gained momentum. Now, hotels offer Arabian cuisine and one can find Arabic speaking drivers and hotel staff, to cater to the need of travellers from the Middle East. Gateway Malabar Holidays is currently operating from Calicut and Cochin. It covers destinations such as Bekal, Coorg, Kabni, Ooty, Mysore and Bangalore. PARTNER COUNTRY
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PROFILE
Lake Palace
Feel afloat in the Lake
T
he Lake Palace provides
size bedroom, en suite bathroom
bathrooms, 24 hours room
Ayurveda Division, an enterprise
something different and
with hot and cold running water,
service, etc.
committed to provide authentic
special to their guests and
24 hours room service, etc. Every
Its Kerala cottages are
ayurveda. Specially prepared
visitors. It is a resort that gives the
balcony at lake view cottage
designed in the traditional Kerala
ayurvedic diet
true ambience of the vast lake
offers an unassailable view of the
style, generating an incredible
is also
with its wide exposure to the
unruffled Vembanad Lake, where
harmony of nature with
provided.
waters. Situated adjacent to the
the traditional country boats and
practicality. It is truly an
Variety of
finishing point of the Nehru Trophy
canoes cruise gently along. Lake
architectural enclave with a
therapies,
Boat Race track, it can be
view cottage is the ideal place for
fascinating amalgam of Kerala
including
accessed by boat from main town
those quiet and cherished
tradition, with modern
Alappuzha. Lake view suite, lake view cottages, Kerala cottages, water
ayurvedic bath,
moments, when you just want to
convenience. It is an unforgettable
be with yourself in tranquillity and
experience of a lifetime reflective
peace.
of the gracious hospitality of the landed gentry of the time. It is a true mirror of all the
The water villas, a showpiece
are at disposal to soothe and
recharge your physical, mental and spiritual forces. The swimming pool at Lake
beauty of Kerala in the cool
Palace is an engineering marvel.
ambience of a home.
Situated in the middle of a private
At Lake Palace, Ayurveda
villa are the modes of
Thomas Chandy, Chairman
lake, it provides endless vistas for
is practiced true to its spirit
relaxing and sun bath. The guests
and substance, by a team of
will be served with beverages and
well experienced doctor and
snacks in this area. A mini
masseurs. Built in the
swimming pool for children is
traditional ‘nalukettu’ style, the
provided as an extension of the main pool.
accommodation offered at the
of architectural elegance in the
centre ensures 100 per cent
resort, all featuring king size and
midst of the soporific private lake,
hygienic and dust free conditions.
twin bedrooms. The setting of lake
are each a complete luxury
A host of ayurvedic treatments
conference hall that provides a
view cottages will enthral you to
cottage with the most eco-friendly
and packages are offered at the
healthy environment to gather for
no end and each of its rooms is
trappings. The water villas offer a
ayurvedic centre, in a tranquil and
any occasion, let it be working
individually decorated with a
rare feeling of being ‘afloat’ in the
rejuvenating ambience conducive
out new business deals,
dramatic blend of old-world charm
Vembanad Lake. Its facilities
for rejuvenation and healing. The
celebrating corporate success or
and modern accessories. Each
include king size bedrooms,
resort offers all curative and
venues for business meets and
cottage features cosy lounge with
beautifully appointed rooms with
restorative therapies in
conventions.
mini bar, fridge, television, king
wooden furniture, en suite
association with Sahyadri
www.lakepalaceresorts.com
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It also houses a spacious
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Back water Ripples
Lake and Nature
B
ackwater Ripples offers traditional Kerala cottages for the leisure and the business travellers. The resort has 34 cottages and executive rooms, offering a spectacular view of the Vembanad Lake. Located in 10 acres of beautifully landscaped ground, Backwater Ripples offers spellbinding encounters with nature. Relish a psychedelic sunset on a montage of clouds, or the flying flurry of evening birds, or just relax and enjoy the cool afternoon breeze. Stroll under the canopy of coconut trees, sipping tender coconut water, or enjoy an afternoon nap on the tree lined lawns, or snap up the ever-changing scenes on the backwater that surround you at this enchanting slice of heaven. From the traditionally crafted wooden furniture, local nature paintings and ethnic handicrafts, to the modern gadgets, the resort harmoniously blends ancient heritage and latest technology. Traditionally built, the hotel sits comfortably within the lush lake side gardens that it inhabits. Built of wood and furnished in the Kerala Mathew Alex Vellapally MD style, the addition of modern comforts and luxurious touches create a welcoming but understated atmosphere. Arayannam, the unique eco-friendly houseboat of Backwater Ripples has one bedroom, with an attached bathroom. This fully furnished self-contained boat with full crew can take you to the middle of the lake, where the still night bathed in moonlight can lull you to sleep, while floating on the emerald waters of Vembanad Lake. The Cordon Bleu, its multi-cuisine restaurant serves you authentic local delicacies from the Vembanad Lake. Here, one can get the taste of ‘karimeen’ pollichathu, (fish wrapped in banana leaves straight from PARTNER COUNTRY
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the canals around the resort, trek in the mangrove forests, or go for bird watching at the sanctuary, or water skiing on the lake. Try out the regimens at age halt and feel rejuvenated in Vedasparsh or an evening work out in the gym. Vedasparsh, the green leaf certified ayurvedic healing centre at Backwater Ripples is managed by a wellqualified and highly experienced doctor, assisted by a team of skilled therapists. Vedasparsh offers several result-oriented therapies designed to unwind, tone up and rejuvenate within a realistic timeframe. Enjoy a cultural evening at the ‘mandapam’ or just laze in your cottage or in the swimming pool. The water sports centre at Backwater Ripples provides water scooters, jet skis, speed boats, sail boats and country boats for you to explore the vast Vembanad Lake. www.backwaterripples.com
the pan) prawns, crabs, oysters and a variety of fresh catch from the lake. The spicy chicken - ‘kozhi varautharachathu’ and the ‘Syrian Christian duck roast’ are also available at the Cordon Bleu. Exciting and innovative menus will offer you the choicest North Indian, Chinese and continental dishes as well. Backwater Ripples also houses Lake side Barbeque, offering yet another dining option to the guests. A feast for your eyes and your stomach, lake side barbeque and grill restaurant will offer you authentic Indian and seafood cuisines. Enjoy an a’ la carte dinner, coupled with many varieties of barbeque delicacies at the lakeside, where you can watch a beautiful sunset and birds flying back home. You can also watch and interact with the resort’s chef when he makes the dishes for you. Backwater Ripples offers enough leisure activities in the resort. Go canoeing on a traditional craft, angling in TRAVEL PARTNER
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Lakes & Lagoons
Alleppey. A professionally managed company with a fleet of luxury houseboats, Lakes and Lagoons offer the best in backwater cruise journeys. V.C. Zachariah Lakes & Lagoons has MD air-conditioned and nonair-conditioned houseboats. The house boats have fully furnished single and double rooms with sundeck, private balcony with comfortable chairs, kitchen and toilet. In addition, there is also separate rest room for the crew. Traditional lanterns are used as lights. Each houseboat has a three member crew - a chef, driver and cabin assistant. The pure ethnic cuisine served in the houseboat is a specialty of Lakes & lagoons. There are single bedroom houseboats for two people and two bedroom houseboats for four people. The menu includes steaming neat tiny hamlets lined fresh cooked rice, up along the both sides curries with locally of the canals are pangrown organic vegetables, Pearl Spot oramic sights one can never forget. And (Karimeen) fry, the starchy Cassava Lakes & Lagoons, the first ISO 9001 2000 certified houseboat tour company in (Tapioca) and fish curry - a veritable tropical feast for your palate. Kerala, is all about making you experiwww.lakeslagoons.com ence the enchanting backwaters of
Feel the blue
A
lleppey is a real natural treasure house, visually splendid with the blue of the lake and the green of the palms and vegetation, active with the aquatic life and local villages, engaged in everyday errands. Palm fringed narrow canals winding through the vast expanse of paddy fields and the
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KERALA TRAVELLER
Alappuza to have better backwater tourism infra
A
lappuzha will offer tourists a far better infrastructure in the near future to make its backwaters experience a memorable one, as the Union Tourism Ministry has given its nod to the Kerala tourism to go ahead with the first phase of Rs 400 crore master plan for the comprehensive development of backwaters of Alappuzha, including creation of a backwater circuit. To be completed in two years, the first phase will see creation of more houseboat terminals, rest points, nighthalt centres, shopping centres and restaurants, to provide a memorable experience of A P Anil Kumar the Tourism Minister destination, to the tourists. Also, the first phase will see creation of new routes for houseboats. “The first phase of the master plan involves developing a comprehensive backwater circuit to link more places and carving out more
routes for houseboats,” says Kerala Tourism Minister A P Anil Kumar. He conveyed that his department has already identified places for nighthalts of houseboats, new shopping centres, handicraft stalls, restaurants and live performances of traditional art forms, to give a real feeling of the local culture and cuisine for the visitors. The master plan also seeks to address the safety concerns of the tourists. “We will be launching the works on the first phase very soon. The stress is on linking more places by charting new routes for the houseboats, as it will be an added attraction to the tourists, who have already explored backwaters of Alappuzha several times. We are sure that this measure will further spread the benefits of tourism in more areas of Kuttanad,” adds a confident Kumar. As per the available information, the new facilities planned along the backwaters will be developed on a public private partnership (PPP) mode. The state will lay the
PARTNER COUNTRY HOSPITALITY PARTNER
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necessary infrastructure for the purpose, while the private players will create and run the shops and other ventures, to woo the visitors.
about some bridges at Kidangara, Vattakayal and Pulinkunnu, obstructing free movement of boats, would be addressed. “There will also be
The plan, among other things, includes development of tourist spots from Aroor to Kayamkulam and the move is expected to benefit 58 panchayats and three municipalities that fall between these places. The master plan also suggests south and north Vembanad and certain areas alongside the Pampa in Kayamkulam and Kuttanad as possible new routes. Besides, there are indications that concerns
provisions for waste management with focus on eco-friendly tourism, smiles the Kerala Tourism Minister. “The master plan for Alappuzha stresses on basic infrastructure development of backwater tourism in the district, with special focus on protection of the environment. We are also considering proposals for allowing luxury houseboats and floating restaurants,” the minister adds.
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ALBUM Take a journey through Asian Traveller-Isola Di Cocco Onam celebrations with Indu Thampi, Miss Kerala, at Isola Di Cocco, Poovar
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KERALA TRAVELLER
Forging ahead innovation, it has in its basket diverse and authentic tourism ourism is undoubtedly products and services. an industry with great “A traveller visiting the opportunities and spectacular land of Kerala is potentials as well as one of the unable to take a strong decifastest growing industries, sion regarding the selection of globally. Kerala, one of the tourism products, services states in India, was late to and destinations, because of realise the importance, poten- the diverse range of products tial and scope of tourism and and services offered to him. its pivotal role in the social This clearly tells the moand economic development. nopoly and uniqueness of the In Kerala, tourism season state, in tourism business,” it begins in the month of Octowas quoted in the new edition ber and ends in March. of Lonely Planet. Popularly known as the God’s Kerala, the lush green own country, this Indian state tropical land wedged in is now a global tourism between the Arabian Sea and destination as well as a brand the Western Ghats, is truly an in itself. ideal destination for developKerala is one of the trend ing all forms of tourism, be it setters in Indian tourism nature based, culture centric business and a true role model and heritage tourism. Indusfor other states. Through its try status was given to the continuous and consistent state’s tourism sector in 1986
Abin K I
T
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and after the introduction of the first (state) tourism policy in 1995, Kerala witnessed a great progress, planned development and advancement in the economy, as a direct result of the growth of its tourism industry. Tourist arrivals, both domestic and foreign, to the state have seen an upward trend since 2000, though it witnessed minor setbacks during certain years. Kerala usually attracts nearly 15-20 per cent of the total foreign arrivals to India, to its various hot destinations. Major markets for the God’s own country include European countries like United Kingdom, France, Spain, Austria, Germany, Italy and Netherlands, followed by Canada, USA, Australia, etc. Besides the traditional mar-
kets, the state is also receiving tourists from Russia and the Middle East. Currently, the Americans are not showing much interest in visiting the state, because of long haul travel. The average stay of foreign tourists in the state is 16 days, while the average stay of foreign tourists in India is nearly a month. Kerala has also been successful in drawing domestic tourists from states such as UP, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Haryana, Maharashtra, Goa and Punjab, to explore its hill stations, backwaters and pristine beaches. The state also regularly sees handsome arrivals from its neighbouring states like Tamil Nadu, Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh. Its pleasing weather, serene backwaters and lagoons, traditional house boats,
TRAVEL PARTNER
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KERALA TRAVELLER idyllic beaches, misty hill stations, tropical forests, exotic wildlife, colourful festivals, unique art forms, folklores and architecture, authentic ayurvedic treatments, rich and varied culture and heritage monuments like forts, museums and palaces, have the magical power to attract all forms of travellers from worldwide, to the state. The initiatives taken by the state, particularly in the areas of eco-tourism, responsible tourism, rural tourism, culture tourism, heritage tourism and village tourism, have already received global attention from premier organisations like World Travel and Tourism Council, World Tourism Organisation, United Nations Environment Programme and the International Eco-Tourism Society. Besides, the state has already been rated by the National Geographic Traveller Magazine, as one of the 50 must see destinations by a traveller in his/her life time. Recent trends show that the middle class travellers from countries like USA and Europe are preferring destinations like Indonesia, Singapore, Maldives, Sri Lanka and Malaysia, for their trips. This trend emerged largely after the downward dive of the economy in the developed countries. Kerala will have to face stiff competitions from such emerging destinations, as they offer quality tourism products and services at a cheaper price. Compared to other destinations, Sri Lanka poses a stiff challenge to Kerala because of its greater involvement in developing and promoting tourism as a vehicle for economic growth, after the end of political crisis in the country. However, with its
neighbouring states like Karnataka and Tamilnadu. The steep increase in the travel costs and tariff of luxury hotel rooms is one of the contentious issues faced by the travellers to the state and it may work against the state’s interests. The airfare from Delhi to Cochin and other destinations has gone up considerably in the recent past and it may have an adverse unique selling propositions impact on the arrival number like wildlife, ayurveda, backwaters, lagoons, festivals, of middle class tourists to the God’s own country. If the art forms, rich culture and varied heritage, Kerala is in a state is eyeing to grow its position to survive the compe- tourism industry in a sustainable manner, then things such tition. But, the state has to utilise its resources effectively. as lack of proper infrastructure development and mainteWhen it comes to the nance at the right time (espedomestic circle, Kerala faces stiff challenge from states like cially of roads, water supply, sanitation and waste manageRajasthan, UP and Goa, in ment), absence of adequate terms of drawing foreign arrivals. These states have lots safety and security measures, insufficient facilities and of attractions to offer to the travellers. Besides, Kerala also services for refreshments, shortage of guides preferably faces competition from the
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in the remote tourism destinations and shortage of sufficient quality hotel rooms should be addressed in a time bound manner. Due to the shortage of rooms, the state is not in a position to tap the full potentials of the season and meet the demands of tourists. With Kerala opening up for yet another tourism season, ayurvedic centres, hotels, resorts, homestays, travel agents, tour operators, houseboat operators and entertainment companies, including water theme parks, are expecting a steady tourist arrival to the state, despite the problems it currently face. Attractive packages, including both readymade and tailor-made, are being provided by different service providers like KTDC, in order to face competition effectively and to attract more tourists. As usual, the state is expecting yet another positive season and is ready to offer attractive and authentic packages, in order to take full advantage of its brand name.
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Flow of an international destination
N With the President Prathibha Patel calling for the development of Ashtamudi Lake as an international tourism destination, Kerala is all set to have one more tourist attraction in its basket. Arya Anil takes a journey through this destination and the major attractions around it
ever would one have
to create ample tourism
imagined that a boat race
the god’s own capital, as it
infrastructure in a time-bound
would change the
features sea, lakes, plains,
manner, Kerala will have another
fortunes of an otherwise
mountains, rivers, streams,
tourist attraction in its kitty, to
neglected tourism destination.
backwaters, forest, vast green
draw more arrivals to the state.
That is exactly what happened to
fields and tropical crop of every
However, there should be a well
the palm-fringed Ashtamudi Lake.
variety. It is an old sea port town
thought-out master plan, before
Despite the tourism potential it
on the Arabian coast with
embarking on creation of tourism
had, it required a maiden
attractions like Mahatma Gandhi
infrastructure.
President’s Trophy Boat Race for
beach and park at Kochupila-
the authorities to realise the
moodu, Thirumullavaram beach
Ashtamudi Lake is a favourite
tourism potential of Ashtamudi
and Ashramam picnic village
destination among several
Lake and take steps towards
around. Mahatma Gandhi beach is
foreigners. Though backwaters
developing it as an international
situated just two Kms from the
are not new to those who visit the
tourism destination, incorporating
town and it is worth spending
God’s own country, Ashtamudi
all principles of sustainable and
one’s evening here.
Lake is special, as it’s a lake with
Thirumullavaram beach, which
responsible tourism.
Even in its present state,
as many as eight branches. Its
is five Kms away from the town, is
luring beauty is sure to make one
Ashtamudi Lake, one of the
an ideal place for swimming and
awestruck. The very name
largest wetland ecosystems, into
bathing, while Ashramam picnic
Ashtamudi means ‘eight coned’
an international tourism
village, located in 48 acre guest
(Ashta = eight and Mudi = coned)
destination has come from the
house complex, is a centre of
and the lake is known as the
President Pratibha Devisingh Patil,
various tourism development
gateway to the backwaters of
who recently visited the place, to
activities of the district. As and
Kerala.
launch maiden President’s Trophy
when Ashtamudi Lake becomes
Boat Race. And now, Kerala has a
an international tourism
branches is the state’s second
reason to smile. The lake, which
destination, Kollam is sure to
largest and deepest wetland
already figures in the list of
benefit from it and emerge as a
ecosystem. Since it figures in the
wetlands of international
major tourism destination in the
list of wetlands of international
importance under the Ramsar
country.
importance under the Ramsar
The initiation to turn
“The launch of the boat race
Convention (an
This lake with multiple
Convention, the lake is also an important global heritage spot.
international treaty for the
can well be considered as a
conservation and sustainable
landmark event, as it will open up
utilisation of wetlands), will also
new vistas for development of the
allows tourists to take boat
soon find a place among the hot
state. It can place Kollam on the
cruises, to discover the beauty of
international tourism destinations.
map as an important destination,”
the lake. One can select between
It will in turn also boost the growth
says, Prathibha Patil.
luxury house boats and non-
The present infrastructure
As called by Pratibha Patil, if
luxury house boats, which usually
as the lake is situated in this
the centre, state governments and
come with an open lounge, one or
district of Kerala.
the private sector come together
two bedrooms, a kitchen and a
of Kollam as a tourist destination,
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Kollam is popularly known as
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KERALA TRAVELLER
Though backwaters are not new to those who visit the God’s own country, Ashtamudi Lake is special, as it’s a lake with as many as eight branches balcony. Taking a cruise along the
Lake is known as the heart of
famous among the nine. The
lake will be an ideal way to
Ashtamudi Lake, while Kallada
shrine is said to have been
explore the beauty of Kerala
Lake is one of the most beautiful
consecrated by the great Hindu
backwaters and a memorable
portions of the lake.
philosopher Sree Sankaracharya.
Thekkumbhagam Lake
experience that one can cherish
Matha Amrithanandamayi
for years. Kollam Boat Club
envelopes Thekkumbhagam, the
Ashram, Vallikavu: It is the
operates boat cruises from Quilon
biggest island of the Ashtamudi
residence and head quarters of
to Alappuzha, providing transport
Lake and the only Veerabhadra
Matha Amrithanandamayi, a Hindu
access to several other towns and
temple of Kerala lies on its north-
spiritual leader and guru. The
villages along the route. The boat
eastern shore. Kallada Lake
ashram, popularly called as the
journey, an eight hour trip that
comprises beautiful islands like
Matha Amrithanandamayi Matt, is
winds through lakes, canals and
Munrothuruth, Pattam thuruth and
situated at Amrithapuri near
water bound villages will give a
Neettum thuruth. Another major
Vallikavu. At present, Amritapuri is
complete exposure to the beauty
branch Thevally Lake houses
an international pilgrim centre.
of the Ashtamudi Lake. Chinese
Thevally Palace, the summer
fishing nets used by local
shelter of the Deshinganad Kings,
north of Kollam, on the Kollam-
fisherman are a common sight
on its banks.
Alappuzha road. The Koilthottam
Chavara: It is situated 14 Kms
port is situated within the limits of
along the waterway. Ashtamudi Lake’s importance
Major attractions around Thangasseri: This seaside
dates back to the days of the
Chavara panchayat. The place is famous for its ‘Thalappoli
Phoenicians and the Romans. Ibn
village of historic importance,
Mahotsavom’, offerings of lighted
Batuta, during his 24-year sojourn
which is situated five Kms away
lamps in decorated small pans,
in the 14 century, has mentioned
from Kollam town, has the ruins of
held at the Kottamkulangara
about the Quilon port, as one of
an old Portuguese fort and
temple. The festival falls in the
the five ports for Chinese trade.
churches which was built in the
months of March-April and the
Links with Persia (ninth century),
18
interesting feature of the festival is
Chinese in 1275 AD, Portuguese
of the place is the light house,
that men dress themselves as
in 1502 AD and the Dutch and the
built in 1902. This 144 ft. light
women and carry lamps. This is a
British in 1795 AD, make the place
house stands as a sentinel,
time-honoured custom.
historically more important.
warning seamen of the
th
Eight branches The eight branches of Ashtamudi Lake include Thevally
th
century. The main attraction
Sasthamkotta Lake:
treacherous reefs of Thangasseri.
Surrounded by hills on three
Visitors are allowed in the
sides, Sasthamkotta is located at
lighthouse between 3.30 pm and
a distance of around 25 Kms from
5.30 pm.
Quilon city. The lake is
Lake, Kandachira Lake,
Mayyanad: Located about 10
categorised as wetland and is the
Kureepuzha Lake,
Kms south of Kollam, Mayyanad is
largest fresh water lake in Kerala.
Thekkumbhagam Lake, Kallada
famous for its shrines and
The lake is named after the
Lake, Perumon Lake, Kumbalath
temples. This place houses nine
ancient Sastha temple (a
Lake and Kanjirottu Lake. Among
shrines in total and Subramanya
pilgrimage centre) located on its
these branches, Thekkumbhagam
Temple at Umayanallor is the most
bank.
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KERALA TRAVELLER
Maurya Rajadhani holds food festival
T
o offer a traditional dining
live music created a perfect
experience to the both
setting, for a family outing.
foreigners and domestic
Traditional cuisines from
travellers, ‘Naadan’ (Desi) Food
across Kerala were served at the
Festival was held at hotel Maurya
‘Nadan food buffet’.
Rajadhani from September 2-12,
The food was prepared with
2011. The food festival was
great care, without adding any
inaugurated by Sobhana George,
artificial ingredients or flavouring
former member of the legislative
agents, to maintain natural taste.
assembly, Kerala.
The festival turned out to be a
The main attraction of the
crowd puller.
festival was the buffet at the roof top restaurant (Palm top). The buffet was arranged in a village setting that featured a fortune teller, a caricaturist and a mehandi centre for ladies and kids. Staffs dressed like village men, live cooking counters and
ASIAN TRAVELLER
Sobhana George (Ex. MLA and Television presenter) inaugurating the Naadan Food Festival at Maurya Rajadhani
AUGUST 2011
223
VARIETY
WelcomHeritage appoints Sanjay Kripal as CEO
Amit Samson appointed as General Manager of Lalit Ashok, Bangalore
Malaysian Airlines appointed Neetu Batra as Manager - Marketing for South Asia Region
Abha Dwivedi joins the Courtyard owned by Marriott, Gurgaon as Director of Rooms
Vikas Kapai appointed as General Manager of Hilton Mumbai International Airport.
Matthew Cooper is the General Manager, of the Courtyard by Marriott, Gurgaon.
1.
What does the country name Austria mean?
2.
What is the Kodak Theatre in Hollywood, Los Angeles famous for?
3.
What is the Juneteenth Day about? 4.
Which country did the energy drink Red Bull start from?
5.
What does Reiki mean?
6.
Where do the colours of blue and white in BMW's logo come from?
7.
Which convenience store was first known as U-Tote'm (you tote them) in the beginning?
8.
The filament tungsten is a Swedish word. What does it mean?
9.
Which was the first theatre to be wired for electricity in the world?
10.
What is Muscular Christianity?
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 10th of next month. Neelima Chopra has been appointed as Chief Sales and Marketing Officer for Marriott International, AsiaPacific.
Pankaj Sharma has been appointed as Director Sales of Holiday Inn Mumbai International Airport
Syed Raghib Ahsan joins Holiday Inn Mumbai International Airport as F & B Manager
Answers to TYKC 47 1. Gardermoen. 2. Esther. 3. Jocular term for fear of palindromes (just read the first part of the word backward!). 4. Brian Eno. 5. He was shot dead on one ( April 14, 1865) 6. Google+ ( Google's answer for Facebook) 7. Qatar. 8. Twitter. 9. Black. 10. Pittsburgh (very often people drop the 'h' in it!).
WINNER OF TYKC 47
LAKSHMI SEN Shalesh Kumar Jha has been appointed as Chief Engineer Holiday Inn Mumbai International Airport
Shekhar Malkotia appointed as Director Spa, The Claridges, Surajkund, Delhi, NCR.
S. Ajith Kumar has been promoted as General Manager of Fortune The South Park, Thiruvananthapuram
B1, Alsa Samudram #4, 4th Seaward, Valmiki Nagar Thiruvanmiyur, Chennai - 600041
One all-correct entry will get
Free Stay at Le-Meridien, Kochi [ 2 nights and 3 days for two ]*
Neena Jose has been appointed as General Manager – Outbound Division of 3M Tours & Travels, Kochi.
224
Anu Rajan has been appointed as General Manager of Maurya Rajadhani, Thiruvananthapuram
Nestled amongst 25 acres of coconut groves and backwater rivers, Le MĂŠridien Cochin Resort & Convention Centre sits at the heart of one of India's most naturally beautiful cities, Kochi. This prestigious landmark houses 5 floors of luxurious accommodation for international business and leisure travelers. The 151 spacious rooms and suites, most with breathtaking views over the manicured gardens and the backwaters. * Conditions apply
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LIST
LIST OF ADVERTISEMENTS No. Name
Page
27.
Lanson Place Hotel, Hong Kong
55
1.
Ambica Empire Hotel
121
28.
Lebua At State Tower
33
2.
Anavilasm, Luxury Plantation House
177
29.
Leela Hotels
02
3.
Ayurbay Beach Resort
101
30.
Lakes & Lagoons
91
4.
Carmelia Haven, Plantation Resort
205
31.
Le Meridien, Cochin
83
5.
Cherai Beach Resorts
199
32.
Lulu International Convention Centre
6.
Cochin Fire Tech India Pvt Ltd.
222
7.
Edassery Kayal Resort
133
8.
Executive Events
9.
Fortune Hotels
10.
& Garden Hotels
67
33.
Nandhana Grand
167
163
34.
Pimalai Resort & Spa, Thailand
49
09
35.
Rainbow Cruises
45
Fragrant Nature Retreat & Resorts Pvt Ltd.
139
36.
Ruby Arena Hotel
223
11.
Gate Way Malabar Holidays
189
37.
Sagara Beach Resort
201
12.
German National Tourist Board
03
38.
Silver Tips- Munnar
185
13.
Green Woods Resort
99
39.
Southern Travels Pvt Ltd.
147
14.
Grand Plaza Munnar
151
40.
Strawberi -Tailor Made Holidays
15.
Hindustan Beach Retreat
117
41.
Swagath Holiday Resorts
16.
IITM
193
42.
Synergy Hotels & Resorts Pvt Ltd.
17.
ITM- Sharjah
157
43.
Tourism Authority of Thailand
228
18.
IITE
213
44.
T& U Leisure Hotel
161
19.
Intersight Tours & Travels (P) Ltd.
61
45.
Thomas Hotels & Resorts
211
20.
ITB- ASIA
13
46.
Travancore Court
143
21.
IT&CMA
225
47.
Uday Samudra Leisure Beach Hotel & Spa
27
22.
J C Travels
155
58.
Vivanta by Taj- Fisherman's Cove, Chennai
23
23.
KCTC Pvt Ltd.
223
59.
Vivanta by Taj- Kovalam
227
24.
Kerala Tourism
39
50.
Vythiri Resort
123
25.
KTDC Hotels & Resorts
215
51.
3M TOURS & TRAVELS
75
26.
La Classic
51
52.
3M TOURS & TRAVELS
87
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