Asian Traveller September 2012 by Asian Traveller

in. this issue . Vol.5 No. 12 September 2012

20. Goa eyes to become a destination of international class 22. Madhya Pradesh to turn more investor friendly 26. Live in a beer world 27. Thailand initiates steps to grow medical, wellness tourism Foreign arrivals to Hong Kong shoot up

P 34-37

29. Tourism Australia charts new strategy for India 30. Singapore ties up with TripAdvisor, innovates its web 32. Indonesia embarks on a great tourism makeover

P 82-84

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW

FACE TO FACE

TEN QUESTIONS

AS I TRAVEL

P 8-9

P 10-11

P 12-13

P 38-39

ABDUL HARIS

RIAZ AHMED

TERRY AUSTEN

V Duraikkannan

Cover Photo Courtesy: Salim Pushpanath

ASIAN TRAVELLER | SEPTEMBER 2012

EDITOR’S NOTE

Editor & Publisher

G. Biju Krishnan

Contributing Editor

Anil Mathew

Biju Kumar N

Chief Executive Officer

Photo Editor

Art Editor

eptember is always special for the tourism industry, worldwide. Though only a day of this month is dedicated to the industry. And, it’s a day of celebration for the industry. A day to celebrate for what it is today - A force that can help countries to survive economic crises, create jobs in large numbers, link cultures, and promote environmental sustainability and green growth. These are only some of the things that the industry is capable of doing. And it does! It does all these things by allowing one to enjoy or relax with the dear and near ones by having fun in an exotic, yet relaxed setting. It does create jobs and contribute to the economy of a country by offering corporate houses a great place to meet, exhibit and do conference. What it upholds is the comfort of its consumers. And it does all these things by taking care of its immediate environment and surroundings. Cool, isn’t it? This year, the official tourism day celebrations will be held in the town of Maspalomas, a part of Gran Canaria Island, Spain. And, the industry can gather there with proud. Because, despite the economic gloom, the industry has attracted a record 467 million travellers to explore various destinations across the world in the first six months of the current calendar year, and is on track to meet the target of one billion travellers by the end of the year. The figure is significant as it tells the increase in foreign exchange earnings that countries have managed through the industry. If not proportional, it wouldn’t be any less! And in a difficult time, it should have come as a relief to them. September is also special for Asian Traveller. It was in a fine September we embarked on our humble journey to serve the travel and tourism industry. And today, we have completed five years in print. Or say, we are celebrating five years of serving the industry. And we are proud, as well. We have stood with the industry through thick and thin. It has been an eventful journey so far. And we have miles to go! We are glad that the industry was there for us, whenever we needed. And, we look forward to your continued support.

T ASIAN TRAVELLER | SEPTEMBER 2012

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OVERVIEW

All Is Well Anil Mathew

t may be monotonous to hear about what tourism industry could do to the comprehensive and sustainable growth of a region, time and again. However, as long as the industry achieves milestones after milestones and performs beyond the expectations, contributing to the prosperity of a region, it would be impossible to stop saying about the impact it can make on the overall growth of a region, directly or indirectly, through different means and ways. And once it stops performing well, it would be equally impossible to stop telling about what it should have done to bring about a change, or perform well, in a given situation. It simply means you can hardly keep yourself away from the topic, especially if you are a member of the travel and tourism family. We have been closely tracking the strides India has

been making in the travel and tourism front, for years. It (tourism in India) took off slowly and there was even a time, when the country figured in the bad books of both inbound and domestic travellers, for its uncleanliness of destinations and unfriendly way of treating them. But, no longer! Things have changed, especially after the country learned what the industry could do to grow its economy by way of foreign exchange earnings, create jobs directly or indirectly, and change its

face on international front. Also, the economic prosperity that other Asian countries achieved through tourism industry has been an eyeopener for India. And now, it has become a trend-setter. There was a time the agriculture sector was touted as the mainstay of Indian economy. We won’t say, it is nowhere now, as we don’t jump to conclusions! It was a performing sector, once. And it can still do wonders. But, we see the emergence of an industry that is capable of

creating jobs and pushing the country’s economy up, even during troubled economic times. The agriculture sector today provides jobs to 45 people per lakh, while tourism provides employment to 78 people per lakh. The difference, if not huge, is considerable. Hope, you would agree. The good news is that if the tourism industry achieves 12 per cent growth in the next four years, i.e., by 2016, it would be in a position to create as many as 25 million additional jobs. Don’t ask us, by when. Because, the tourism ministry hasn’t, as far as we know, thrown light into this. There is yet another reason for us to speak so much about the Indian tourism industry. Its ability to draw a large number of arrivals and thereby generating growing amount of foreign exchange earnings, while the world is facing economic slowdown. Take, for instance, the figures of foreign tourist arrivals in August 2012. At 4.56 lakh, it has seen a growth of 2.5 per cent, from 4.45 lakh in the comparable period, last year. The growth is small, isn’t it? But, it has helped the country to generate foreign exchange earnings of Rs 7260 crore, up 26.6 per cent from Rs 5734 crore in August 2011. It just shows all is well with the Indian tourism industry and what it is doing to its economy.

ASIAN TRAVELLER | SEPTEMBER 2012

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW

Maldivian Airline has a tale of success to tell. A relatively new entrant in the aviation industry, it has today achieved an enviable growth. A growth it leveraged from the boom in the countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s tourism industry. And hence, the success of Maldivian Airline is a perfect example of what the growth of tourism industry of a region could do to revive its aviation industry. In an interview to Asian Traveller, Abdul Haris, Managing Director, Maldivian Airline, provided a clear picture of the early days of Maldivian Airline, its steady growth, its major markets, its focus on India and its growth plans. Edited Excerpts:

Flying High Isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t Maldivian Airline a relatively new entrant in the aviation industry? How has been the growth, since you commenced your operations? Maldivian Airline was formed in 2000 and it is fully owned by the government. We started our operations with two 16-seater Dornier 228 airlines that were leased from a local company. Our focus was mainly on the domestic market and initially we served three to four airports in the country. In the beginning, we also didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have airlines to serve regional or international destinations. However, even then, our eyes were set on international operations. The

growth, I would say, was phenomenal over the years. From nowhere, we have grown into an airline company with six aircrafts, from Dornier to DASH Q 200 and Q 300 aircrafts, which are made by Bombardier Canada and are 37 to 50-seater aircrafts. We are very particular about introducing straight length services, reducing the travel time of the people flying with us. Also, cost wise, we are the best in the market. When we started, the net worth was hundred thousand dollars and it has grown close to 35 million dollars in 12 years time. So, the growth has been reasonably good. The key to this success

has been diversion of our attention from the domestic market, to the tourism industry. Today, our main focus is on expansion from domestic to tourism, tourism to regional and regional to international. And this is going to be our strategy. Besides your decision to serve the tourism industry, what are the other factors that have contributed to the steady growth of the company? Of course, the market has helped us a lot with the right opportunity. Then, a dedicated team, proper guidance from the board and the support of the customers

have taken us, where we are today. The market was right for us, as soon after our launch, we saw the country focusing more on tourism. And, Trivandrum was our first regional market. In the beginning, we had only one airline operating between Male and Trivandrum. The traffic from Maldives to Trivandrum keeps on growing and people are flying mainly for medical tourism. Maldives lacks in good medical facilities and of course there is a reason for that. The population is low and hence if the private or government invests a lot of money in medical facilities, it

ASIAN TRAVELLER | SEPTEMBER 2012

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW all in-flight entertainment, including a variety of in-flight reading materials. This is our first aircraft that has business class and it’s something new to us. Hence, we will seek expertise from India and other part of the world, to improve certain services. And it is important that we get the right people and the right resources to do that.

takes long periods for returns. Trivandrum is located close to Maldives and people find it easy to travel, to avail of quality services at affordable prices. Hence, it will be an important market for us. On the domestic front, as I said, we re-strategised our plan and started working to serve the tourism market. About 10-15 years back, tourism was concentrated in and around Male, the capital city of Maldives. Today, we have some exotic destinations across the island. We are the wheel based market leader in Maldives and we serve hotel properties within the close proximity of the airports we operate in south and north of Maldives. Realigning the strategy and focussing on the right areas have helped us a lot, to grow steadily.

strategy in place. Get more aircrafts, more capacity and increase the domestic foothold. We will try our level best to sustain our leadership that we hold today in the market. On the international front, we will expand our services to additional points in India. We are getting first Airbus A320 in October this year, which will have 14 business class seats and 138 economy seats, and we will be using them to serve Male-Chennai, Male-Mumbai and Male-Dhaka as well.

Do you have a special focus on India? If yes, what makes it so attractive and how well your services connect India and Maldives? Chennai and Mumbai are important markets for us. Mumbai is basically a leisure market. I do feel that Maldives is not appropriately marketed Where do you think the as a destination in other parts future of Maldivian Airline of India, especially in northern belongs – domestic or states. I would say, destination international market? promotion is a must. Arrivals With the tourism industry from north India is minimal is taking off in a big way and last year we had only in Maldives, the domestic 30,000 tourists from this part market offers a huge potential. of India to Male. The reason The country attracted about is that there are no direct 600,000 tourists three to four flights between northern years back and the number cities of India and Male. of arrivals is growing at a North Indians love beaches decent rate and may hit a and prefer destinations like million, this year. Tourists are Mauritius and Seychelles. travelling beyond the Male and Maldives is not in the list, destinations within the country not because they do not love are developing at a fast rate. the country. It’s the absence Hence, we cannot ignore the of direct services that works domestic market. It has to be against the country. Hence, served well. So, we have a we have studied this market

ASIAN TRAVELLER | SEPTEMBER 2012

How far you rely on special rates and offers to attract and the route very well, and travellers? we see a great opportunity. It largely depends on We are trying to bridge the peak or off season. We also connectivity gap and it will have to see the trend. For instance, during winter, be beneficial for both India and Maldives. It will facilitate which falls through October to December, more people Indian arrivals to Maldives travel to Maldives. Yield may and Maldivian arrivals to India. Our intention is to serve not be as high in summer. the people better who want to Special rates and offers can be used to increase the come to Maldives. When it comes to outbound yield. Hence, it is all about yield management. We are travel market of Maldives, working on a system to do it Trivandrum is the favourite systematically and it would be Indian destination for online by January. We are also reasons that are obvious. For forming our holiday division holidays, the middle class called ‘Maldivian Retreat’. prefer Singapore, Thailand Plans are on floor to launch it and Malaysia. However, I in November and it will focus would say, India has lots on selling package holidays to offer, to the Maldivian to various parts of India and outbound travellers. Mumbai, Maldives. for instance, is where one can What are your plans to grow shop, trade and indulge in Maldivian Airlines, from leisure and culinary delights, strength to strength and at a better price. Also, look where do you like to see at north India. It has some the company in the next exciting destinations for five years? honeymoon and leisure A keen focus on domestic travellers. In India one gets market and increasing the everything – if you need snow, frequency of services with there is Shimla; for desert, minimum connecting time at Jaipur; Kashmir for waterfalls, Male International Airport etc. However, people need to are the road ahead for us. We be educated about all these. are also entering the airport What are the unique in-flight management business and comforts you offer to the Dharavandhoo Airport is travellers? going to be our first airport. We are focussing more on It has seven to eight hotel improving in-flight services properties within its vicinity and the most important thing and hence would complement to do is to train our people, our airline operations. Also, as it is the key element for it is our vision to see that good service. The new aircraft we capture a large portion will have 14 business class of international inbound seats and we will be offering travellers to Maldives.

FACE TO FACE

The preparations for the Kerala’s prestigious travel and tourism event, Kerala Travel Mart (KTM), have reached its heightened levels, with only a few days left for the mart to go on the floors. With a notable increase expected in the number of foreign and domestic exhibitors and participants, the expectations from the event are already high. To know how this year’s event is going to be different from the previous editions, and the arrangements made to make it a huge success, Asian Traveller talked to Riaz Ahmed, President, KTM Society, who candidly responded to each and every question. Edited Excerpts:

“KTM is a trend-setter” Compared to other travel marts and fairs, what significance KTM holds for Kerala’s tourism industry? KTM is a unique product. It’s a product envisaged by the industry, with the support of the Department of Tourism, Government of Kerala. The mart is significant, as it encompasses the entire gamut of tourism players. It’s a common platform, where hotels, resorts, tour operators, houseboats, home stays, ayurveda and health care, and airlines having

a stake in Kerala gather to exhibit their products, discuss recent trends and chart new strategies for growth. Moreover, it gives an opportunity for buyers to meet and interact with a large number of sellers/service providers at a single venue within a span of three days. The success of the mart can be gauged by the increase in participation, with every successive mart. KTM has successfully reached its seventh edition. As the President of KTM Society that organises this

mega event, what all changes, do you think, are needed to face new challenges? Any successful model needs to update itself, in order to sustain. This year, KTM is more tech savvy. Registration for both buyers and sellers is online. Same arrangement has been made for buyer-seller appointments. Then, badges will be bar coded for effective monitoring. There have been suggestions to conduct roadshows abroad, during the alternate years when KTM is not held.

What went behind selecting Le Meridien, Kochi, to host the event this year? As the mart is growing from strength to strength in terms of the number of participants, we needed a bigger arena. Le Meridien, Kochi, has recently improved its facilities and extended its permanent exhibition space. Hence, we decided to host this year’s mart over there. What makes KTM India’s biggest tourism buyerseller event?

ASIAN TRAVELLER | SEPTEMBER 2012

FACE TO FACE KTM is a trend-setter, as far as tourism fairs in India are concerned. It showcases only one state and represents the entire tourism products and services within it. The mart is a glowing example of the successful public-private partnership that exists in Kerala. How big will be this year’s mart, in terms of the number of exhibitors and participants? KTM 2010 had a participation of 280 international and 890 domestic buyers. As of now, 460 international and 1245 domestic buyers have registered for this year’s event. We hope, the final figures would be higher than the previous year.

the mart a huge success. The curtains for the mart would go up on September 27, at 6 pm, with an inaugural session,which will be followed by cultural programmes and dinner. The next three days will be devoted to buyer-seller meet. The mart will be open to public on September 30.

Do you think KTM 2012 would create a benchmark of its own and be different from the previous editions of A File Pic the mart? Tourism is influenced by as fully hosted buyers. At KTM has been a stepping the trends and socio-economic present, hosted buyers are stone for marketing, for many conditions of a given period. entitled to accommodation, a new entrant. For veterans, Kerala is, today, a reasonably breakfast and transportation. it helps in renewing contacts well-known destination. They also have the option of and building new ones. As However, we need to evolve choosing any of the four post a medium through which in order to sustain the interest mart itineraries. visibility of a product is of the travellers. In view What all arrangements are created, KTM will always be of the global recession and made for this year’s event? relevant. As each mart has the challenges faced from KTM has a well-oiled been an improvement on the At a time when the global competitors, it is desirable to machinery for conducting the previous ones, KTM 2012 economy is on a downward dive, how do you plan to make bring in key buyers, especially mart. Various sub committees will surely leave its mark of from emerging markets, are working earnestly to make innovation and success. KTM 2012 a huge success?

ASIAN TRAVELLER | SEPTEMBER 2012

Q&A

Meeting and conversing with Terry Austen, General Manager, Crowne Plaza Kochi, in itself is a pleasant experience that one will cherish for a while. Imagine, how a great experience would it be then to stay in his hotel and taste the sweet of the hospitality his team delivers! A traveller from a very young age, it was his passion for exploring and experiencing local culture and people that attracted him to build a career in the hospitality sector. And today, he has taken it on his shoulders the responsibility to deliver a unique experience to his guests. He is out-and-out a gentleman and a great leader, who puts in a considerable time and effort to crate a team that counts. Know him more through 10 Questions somewhat transient and have the opportunity to continue travelling and experiencing new things. As time went on, I started to develop within the industry, responsibility grew, my outlook matured, and now I really enjoy promoting local cultural elements to others, and the industry as a long term career alternative.

Terry Austen General Manager Crowne Plaza Kochi

What plans do you have for the company? Crowne Plaza Kochi is a great hotel. It has great space, versatile hi-tech meeting options, the city’s largest inventory with 269 rooms and excellent views, and is a new brand to Kerala. The Crowne Plaza brand is truly global, and hotel positioning is very clear. Over the coming year, we will not only unveil the hotel, but we will be thoughtful of how we position, promote and deliver You have been in the on every aspect of our brand hospitality industry for the past several years. What made and the many unique selling points we have. you enter the hospitality Central to this is the great sector? Could you tell us people we have employed about your early days? and continue to attract, as I was fortunate to have our performance improves. a lot of international travel, They are the ones we need to adventure and memorable ensure are ready to receive experiences, from a very guests and deliver truly early age. This also included unique experiences and create immersing myself into local confidence for our guests. culture, and growing an Within India, our presence appreciation for different ways continues to grow with this of life and viewpoints. being the fifth Crowne Plaza I trended towards a career to enter the country and more in travel/hospitality, so planned to come on line, early that I could continue to be

in the coming year. How do you see the role of a hotel in developing a destination? What all things can hospitality sector do in this regard? The destination is absolutely important, and it should be every hotel’s focus, first and foremost. More supply brings choice and opportunity for a destination to grow, but a destination is the real reason for choice, in the first place. Destinations can be promoted through travel brochures, trade shows, media, and more relevant today is the online space, especially social media. And, hotels should be active in all these areas. The hotel itself should also look to complement the local destination, by giving authentic experiences and opportunities for their guests to easily explore. However, it’s not just any one or two sectors’ responsibility. Each sector should play a fair share to build infrastructure, attractions and make it easy to get in and out. Would you please share with us the proudest and some of the unforgettable moments in your professional life? Being in the industry for over 20 years, you do get to see a lot of great (and not so great) things. Way too many to reference! Each encounter

ASIAN TRAVELLER | SEPTEMBER 2012

Q&A though is what shapes us and guides the way we lead. Some fond memories include regular interactions with movie stars, sporting and music legends, and an astronaut. What I really enjoy though is when a guest takes the time to extend their gratitude for something special that happened to them during their stay, or when a colleague thanks me for the opportunity for them to grow and I see them succeed in the industry. Both of which are sincere and rewarding. In your career, have you ever worked abroad? What, according to you, are the advantages of working overseas? Originally from New Zealand, this is the fifth country I have worked in. I love it. I enjoy getting involved, exploring and

growing as an individual. Yes, it can be challenging at times, when family are not near and you continue to make, and then leave friendships. The world today is a very small place though. Travel costs and connectivity are manageable and the internet ensures friendships can be retained. Where would you like to see yourself, say, 10 years from now? No doubt, in another country. Still in the industry, still delighting guests and keeping up with and promoting the industry, to the next generation. How do you see the growth prospects of Indian hospitality sector? As an industry, the potential is huge. We continue to grow year on year, and as connectivity improves, new generations mature and economic growth remains

ASIAN TRAVELLER | SEPTEMBER 2012

strong, individuals become more worldly and travel needs increase for business, study and relaxation. There are a number of individual hotels being developed in every region. Global chains are also establishing their presence in India. The future looks very bright for the region, and more importantly for consumers, given the choice at various categories and prices points. Would you paint a picture of your family? My wife, Belinda, and two young daughters, aged nine and seven, have accompanied me to Kochi. The girls attend school and have made many great friends. We are all enjoying exploring India and encountering different cultural experiences. My parents and extended family are all back in New Zealand and we try to get back to see them, as often as

possible. In fact, I am hoping to entice them to Kochi, for a holiday in the near future. Please tell us about your hobbies and other interests? As a passionate New Zealander, I love following the All Blacks, who are current Rugby World Champions. To be honest, I enjoy watching most sports. Also, being in the sector, I have a passion for travel and enjoy discovering new destinations with the family. Which is your favourite destination? Why? I have a few great places that I have travelled, but there arenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t a lot that I will go back to time and time again, because I like the opportunity to explore. But, I really do prefer coastal areas - sun, beach, clear water, great food, and things that everyone in the family can enjoy!

INDIAN PANORAMA

Photo: above14000ft.com

Get awed & amazed Take a journey from New Delhi to Shimla, Kullu, Manali and Rohtang Pass, with P Ramesh, exploring the diversity each destination offers

taying in Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s own country is, indeed, a different feeling but when you visit a different place in the country that sports a different atmosphere, it is something of an enjoyable learning experience. It is said that travelling extensively within India is the best way to know the world, closer. Such is its diversity! From ASIAN TRAVELLER | SEPTEMBER 2012

INDIAN PANORAMA

Manali in winter

spectacular concrete jungle to unspoiled green forests, from world-famous monuments to tranquil tourist villages, from business and leisure destinations to religious tourism spots, from national festivals to regional and religious festivals, from endemic flora and fauna to universal ones, from white sandy beaches to gurgling

streams, from bustling urban cities to rustic charm of rural areas, it has an endless offering for the travellers. Then, in a mere 28 states and seven union territories, the country has almost countless ethnic groups living harmoniously, like under an umbrella. No wonder India is known as a treasure-trove of culture!

ASIAN TRAVELLER | SEPTEMBER 2012

Our sojourn to the picturesque hills and pristine beauty of some of the destinations in India began from Delhi, the country’s capital city. Delhi is the second largest metropolis of India and is also the political hub of the country. From Parliament House, Supreme Court and Connaught Place to India Gate, Red Fort,

Qutab Minar, Humayun’s Tomb, Lodi Tomb, Safdarjang Tomb, Garden of Five Senses, Purana Quila, Jantar Mantar, Birla Mandir, Jama Masjid, Akshardham Temple, Bahai Temple, Azad Hind Gram and Dilli Haat, there are a lot of places worth visiting in Delhi. Our first stop was Shimla, the capital city of north Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. It is often referred to as the ‘Queen of Hills’, a nickname called by the British in the olden days. The city of Shimla, draped in forests of pine, rhododendron and oak, is known for its pleasant summers and winters. This city of hills, temples, palaces, educational institutes, and Tudorbethan and neo-Gothic architecture is bounded by Solan and Sirmaur to the south, Mandi and Kullu to the north, and Kinnaur to the east. We were awed and amazed by the beauty of the structures, including Auckland House, Gorton Castle, The Gaiety Theatre, Shimla Town Hall, and the former Viceregal Lodge (which now houses Indian Institute of Advanced Study), that tell the tales of British rule. Viceregal Lodge is where the partition draft of India was reportedly finalised. Its population, generally known as Shimlaites, by and large are cosmopolitan people and if you coincide your visit with any of the festivals here, especially the summer festival, you can really delve deep into the culture and gastronomic world of Shimla. To get the feel of the location, you may also hangout on the Mall Road, the main shopping street of Shimla, where, besides shopping outlets, you can find a number of clubs, bars and restaurants. It is where the Gaiety Theatre, a remarkable piece of Victoriantheatre architecture, is situated. We also loved the time spent on the Ridge Road,

INDIAN PANORAMA

Photo: viewgallary.com

where the summer festival is usually held. Not far away from the Mall Road, on the west side of the Ridge Road you can find Scandal Point, and the Lakkar Bazaar, on its east side. Lakkar Bazaar is where you can shop for souvenirs and crafts made of wood. Also, do not leave Shimla without shopping for arts and crafts, carpets and rugs, excellent pieces of jewellery, embroidered shawls and garments, leather made articles, and sculptures, for which the city is famous for. Another thing you may like about this Himalayan city is its temples. The important Hindu worship places in

Shimla include the Kali Bari Temple, Jakhoo Temple, Sankat Mochan Temple and Tara Devi Temple. While Kali Bari Temple is devoted to goddesses Kali, Jakhoo Temple and Sankat Mochan are dedicated to god Hanuman. We loved the devotional atmosphere the temples offered and at the same time we couldn’t take our eyes off the intricate designs of these worship centres. The journey to the Jakhoo Temple, which is located on the Jakhoo Hill, the highest peak in Shimla, was very exciting. Besides temples, you can also find a Gurudwara, Sikhs’ worship

Important points on the route include Solan, Salogra, Dharampur, Kandaghat, Summerhill and Barog. The train passes through as many as 106 tunnels and this in itself makes for an interesting and a memorable journey. This mountain railway, built by the British, enlivens the spirits of the travellers as it winds its way upwards along the narrow track, and is something that you cannot afford to miss on your trip to this part of India. There are economical, deluxe and premium train services on this route. Taking either of the Shimla landscape special heritage trains – the place, and a church, in Shimla. Shivalik Palace Tourist Coach We also visited the State or the Shivalik Queen Tourist Museum, where paintings, Coach, will make this unique sculptures, coins, jewellery, trip all the more exciting. handicrafts and textiles of In Shimla, we met Mr. ancient times are exhibited. Joseph Kurian, Chief Justice of What we enjoyed the Himachal Pradesh High Court, most was the train journey who belongs to Kerala. His along the Kalka-Shimla rail official residence is also one of route, which mostly passes the oldest buildings in the area. through mountains. The ride Our next important stop in the train was super. The was Kullu, popularly known trip through this UNESCO as the Valley of Gods. Situated World Heritage Site, which on the banks of Beas River, connects Kalka, a town in this scenic spot offers enough the Panchkula district of avenues for water-based Haryana, and the capital adventure sports and fishing. city of Himachal Pradesh, Just about 10 kilometres will offer you breathtaking views of the hills, pine forests from the Bhuntar Airport, it is where some of the famous and surrounding villages. temples, such as Mahadevi Tirth Temple, Devta Narsingh Temple, Raghunath Temple, Shringi Rishi Temple, Bijli Mahadev Temple and Basheshwar Mahadev Temple are found and hence the name Valley of Gods. Some of these temples are known for their intricate stone carvings and fine sculptures. Since white water rafting is popular on the Beas River, we went for it. As I did not know swimming, I was, to be frank, a bit afraid. It was a seven kilometres ride and Photo: A.M.Hurrell Kalka-Shimla raill route was indeed a thrilling new

ASIAN TRAVELLER | SEPTEMBER 2012

INDIAN PANORAMA

Photo: Miya.m

experience. Rafting is one of adventure activities tourists could indulge in during their visit to Kullu. The mighty river Beas and its tributaries nothing but just invite them to enjoy the waters, and have over the years proved irresistible for rafters. Fishing is another option, one could try here. Before packing bags from Kullu, make sure that you have shopped for Kullu Shawls, which are usually made of several natural fibres like pashmina, sheep-wool,

angora, etc., and visited places such as Shoja, a hill station where you can enjoy snow-clad peaks and valleys, meadows and forests, and rivers and streams; Naggar, where the famous Indian actress Devika Rani and her husband Svetoslav Roerich, a noted Russian painter, stayed; Kasol, a popular trekking site; Raison, a famous camping site; Sainj Valley, a trekkers’ paradise that is known for its spectacular nature; and Manikaran, a hub of hot

ASIAN TRAVELLER | SEPTEMBER 2012

springs and pilgrim centres. We now knew it was time for us to conclude our trip. To be frank, we had no idea of time passing by. We were, however, never ready to call the trip over, without a visit to Manali, which lies to the northern end of the Kullu Valley. Here too, you can find a number of temples and some of the famous ones include Hadimba Temple, Manu Temple and Vashishta Temple. Another attraction is the three Tibetan monasteries.

We also loved the time spent at Van Vihar, where we enjoyed boating to the tilt. We decided to conclude the trip, with a visit to Rohtang Pass, a mountain pass that connects Kullu Valley with the Lahaul and Spiti Valleys. And, I personally feel, there wasn’t a better way to conclude it! On the way to the pass, we just stopped at Solang Valley to enjoy parachuting, paragliding, skating and zorbing, and at the popular picnic spot Rani Nala. The road leading to the pass is so breathtaking, as snow-clad mountains dot it. It is a place somewhere between heaven and earth! There wasn’t a better opportunity for us to play with/in the snow. And we tried everything - ice skating, motor bike ride, snow ride and yak ride. (The author is the Deputy Manager of NTPC Ltd., Kayamkulam, Kerala)

NEWSLINE

India may grant infra status to hospitality sector

he Indian hospitality sector has a reason to cheer. At the 47th annual convention of the Federation of Hotel and Restaurant Associations of India (FHRAI), Subodh Kant Sahay, Union Tourism Minister, Government of India, assured the hospitality players that the government is considering about conferring infrastructure status to the hospitality sector. However, it still seems to be on a wait and watch stage.

“I have met the Union Finance Minister P Chidambaram recently and have raised the issue of granting infrastructure status to the hotel and restaurant industry. I have also discussed this matter with the infrastructure committee. I will do my best to remove the anomalies present in the current policy and help the hospitality sector in getting the much required infrastructure status,” says, Sahay.

FHRAI has been demanding infrastructure status for the industry, for long. Hospitality sector is highly capital intensive, with large sunk costs and long gestation periods. The steady increase in borrowing costs, over the past few years, has not only undermined the financial viability of individual projects across the country, but also clouded the investment horizon for the entire sector. “The assurance from Sahay has come as a big relief to the sector. As per the list notified by the Cabinet Committee on Infrastructure, only three-star or higher category classified hotels located outside cities with a population of more than one million are eligible for infra status. This unreasonable restriction seriously limits the intended beneficial impact of this policy initiative. We hope that the corrective measures by Sahay

will give a big boost to the sector,” says, Kamlesh Barot, President, FHRAI. Anil Kumar, Tourism Minister of Kerala; P Rajavelu, Tourism Minister of Puducherry; and Samuel Matthews, Secretary, Ministry of Tourism - Goa, were present at the inaugural session of the convention.

Kerala readies for shopping festival

erala is, no doubt, a great place to shop for handicrafts, textiles or jewellery. But, it’s special to shop for them, when the state holds Grand Kerala Shopping Festival (GKSF), as it’s when the discounts rain. The uniqueness of this 46-day long shopping extravaganza is that it’s pan-Kerala. There will be a number of shops in every district of the state, participating in the event. Hence, one needs not travel long distances to not to miss the opportunity to be part of this biggest shopping gala. Into its sixth edition, GKSF will be held from December

15, 2012 to January 31, 2013. The inaugural ceremony will be held at Kozhikode and closing function will be at Kollam.The preparations for the festival have already started, with A P Anil Kumar, Tourism Minister, Government of Kerala, unveiling the new logo of the event. “This year, GKSF is targeting 10,000 registrations. The event, among other things, will be noted for thematic exhibitions like handicrafts and handloom fest, coir and coconut fest, tribal fest and craft fest, which will be organised

A P Anil Kumar

in association with the respective state and central public sector undertakings,” says the tourism minister. As part of the festival, a mega exhibition will be held at Kochi, in association with partner states and other countries, for 15 days during the Christmas and New Year period. During the festival, tourists will have the facility to purchase local products

like coir, cashew, marine products, spice, handloom and handicrafts from the production centres. Conducted by Kerala Tourism Department in association with departments such as industries and commerce, finance, and local self government, GKSF is an attempt to turn this south Indian state into an international shopping hub.

ASIAN TRAVELLER | SEPTEMBER 2012

NEWSLINE

Goa eyes to become a destination of international class

fter establishing Goa, an Indian state renowned for its beaches, places of worship and world heritage architecture, as a major international tourist destination, its government seems to be all set to turn it into a destination of international class. The government of Goa, as per the available information, is on the lookout for international consultancies, to get assistance to take the idea forward. “Goa has been doing beach tourism for over 40 years now and hence monotony has set in. We are looking for international agencies, which can provide us with the consultancy services. Goa is a major international tourist destination but the next step required is to make Goa into a destination of international class. We are planning to

look at the possibilities in developing beach shacks, water sports etc.,” Samuel Mathew, Principal Secretary Tourism, Government of Goa, confirms the development. The major beaches of Goa include Candolim Beach, Palolem Beach, Baga Beach, Mabor Beach, Aguada Beach, Dona Paula Beach, Miramar Beach, Colva-Benaulim Beach, Varca/Cavelossium Beach and Anjuna Beach. Located in different parts of the state,

each beach offers a unique atmosphere. Other tourist attractions you can’t miss in Goa include the Bom Jesus Cathedral, Fort Aguada, Goa State Museum, Naval Aviation Museum and a wax museum on Indian history, culture and heritage in Old Goa. The state is also home to two World Heritage Sites - the Bom Jesus Basilica, and churches and convents of Old Goa. The proposed move to turn Goa into a destination

of international class, by adding more sophisticated offerings, is part of its move to achieve sustainable growth. “We will take care of environmental issues and local population. They have to be protected. Tourism is a multi-dimensional industry and many inter-departmental procedures are to be followed,” adds, Mathew. In 2010, over two million tourists visited Goa, of which 1.2 million were foreigners.

Gujarat grows in favour with travellers

he magical touch of Bollywood superstar Amitabh Bachchan seems to be doing wonders for Gujarat’s tourism industry. After roping him as the brand ambassador for the state and promoting the destination through a massive advertising campaign, Gujarat has seen a quantum jump in the arrival of tourists. As per the available information, arrivals

to this western India state have increased by 50 lakh, within two years. “Gujarat witnessed 1.75 crore tourists two years ago and now it has gone up to 2.23 crore. Gujarat is probably the only state which spends a huge amount on promotion of tourism. To be specific, we spend about Rs 100 crore, on it. The promotional campaign, featuring Bachchan, has made

a difference,” says, The government has Vipul Mitra, Principal already spent about Rs Secretary – Tourism, 60 crore on promotions Government of Gujarat. of Dwaraka,” he adds. He believes it was The birthplace of the the direct approach greats like Mahatma Vipul Mitra adopted in the Gandhi and Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, Gujarat campaigns that worked for the state. “Instead of running is where you can experience India’s rich cultural heritage, indirect or subtle campaigns we adopted a direct approach. in all its flavour. From the scenic beauty of Great Rann When Bachchan said “Come, of Kutch and Saputara to the visit Dwaraka,” it worked. splendour of sandy beaches, museums and national parks, Gujarat has a lot to offer to the tourists. The state is also home to Sun Temple, Modhera and Somnath Temple. You can also find in its jungles pure Asiatic Lions. Gujarat is expected to add 65,000 hotel rooms within the next three years, to cater to the growing requirements of the travellers.

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NEWSLINE

Madhya Pradesh to turn more investor friendly

adhya Pradesh is likely to turn more attractive to investors in tourism projects, with its government planning to introduce single window clearance for the tourism projects in the state. “We are determined to reduce the bureaucratic hassles for setting up tourism projects in the state. We have successfully implemented Lok Seva Guarantee and we are keen to meet the investors, who are interested in tourism

ventures in Madhya Pradesh. Next year, the government will also have covered the entire state with undisrupted electricity supply,” informs, Raghavendra Kumar Singh, Managing Director, Madhya Pradesh Tourism. The Khajuraho Group of Monuments, Devi Jagadambi Temple, Buddhist Monuments at Sanchi and the Rock Shelters of Bhimbetka are world famous UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Madhya Pradesh. It is also land of the architecturally

significant sites such as Ajaigarh, Amarkantak, Asirgarh, Bandhavgarh, Bawangaja, Bhopal, Chanderi, Chitrakuta, Dhar, Gwalior, Indore, Burhanpur, Maheshwar, Mandleshwar, Mandu, Omkareshwar, Orchha, Pachmarhi, Shivpuri, Sonagiri, Mandla and Ujjain. There are as many as nine national parks in the state - Bandhavgarh National Park, Kanha National Park, Satpura National Park, Sanjay National Park, Madhav National Park, Van Vihar

National Park, Mandla Plant Fossils National Park, Panna National Park, and Pench National Park. “The state offers a lot of potential for tourism projects and we are moving towards the single window clearance system for projects related to the tourism industry, to realise the full potential. On Transferable Development Rights (TDR) basis, we have made it possible to buy FSI in the cities like Indore and Bhopal and other districts,” concludes, Singh.

FHRAI calls for reviving Mumbai’s nightlife scene

o make Mumbai more attractive to the leisure travellers, the Federation of Hotel and Restaurant Associations of India (FHRAI) has proposed to the Government of Maharashtra to make the state’s nightlife vibrant and safer by creating special tourism zones. Besides reviving the night life of the city, once implemented, the move is expected to attract more tourists to Mumbai. “Some of the areas, including Kala Ghoda, Link Road and Juhu, where there are presence of hotels, pubs and restaurants, can be turned into special tourism zones. We have proposed this to the Chief Minister

of Maharashtra Prithviraj Chavan, and he has shown interest in the same. Such areas can be turned into no traffic zones and tourists can move more freely till late hours. Moreover, security angle can be viewed more efficiently, if such zones are created,” says, Kamlesh Barot, President, FHRAI.

The most modern city in India, Mumbai is a shopper’s delight with bargain buys, exclusive boutiques, ethnic markets and mini bazaars. Major tourist attractions of the city include Gateway of India, Film City, Stock Exchange, Bombay Natural History Museum, Jehangir Art Gallery, Juhu Beach,

Chowpatty Beach, Hanging Gardens, Kamala Nehru Park, Kamlesh Barot Chor Bazaar, Crawford Market, Fashion Street, Elephanta Caves, Kanheri Caves, Essel World and Vasai Fort. “Mumbai lacks an international scale convention centre like the one in Hyderabad. Given that it is the financial capital of India, the need for such a convention centre is all the more high, and the ministry of tourism can incentivise private participation,” says, Vivek Nair, Honorary Secretary, FHRAI.

ASIAN TRAVELLER | SEPTEMBER 2012

NEWSLINE

Club Mahindra launches win a vacation campaign

ant to win a holiday? All that you have to do is to send in videos that tell the reasons for why you need a holiday in a humorous and innovative way. If you could impress the judges, what awaits you is a three-night, four-day trip to a select Club Mahindra resort. Yes, Club Mahindra’s recently launched ‘Why I Need (Win) a Vacation’ campaign demands nothing more than this. You make the video and upload it on the company’s YouTube channel, which will be judged by an expert panel. While you win a holiday, Club Mahindra, India’s leading vacation ownership brand, will meet its goal of generating user generated content. The campaign will end on October 15, 2012. “The campaign brings alive the brand promise of

‘Jiyo Life’, which simply means live life to the fullest. It uses the Digital Townsquare, to rally all

the videos. It will leverage our known experience and expertise in social media and demonstrate the power of

user generated content,” says, Indranil Chakraborty, CMO, Mahindra Holidays and Resorts India Ltd. Club Mahindra is a brand leader in the social media space. It engages over a million users and is influential in the hospitality space, with a Klout score of 56. It also uses crowdsourcing effectively across social media platforms, leveraging activities like poetry, photography and storytelling. Club Mahindra is the flagship brand of Mahindra Holidays and Resorts India Ltd. Mahindra Holidays is India’s leading leisure hospitality provider, with 147,038 members and an impressive network of 40 resorts at some of the most scenic locations in India and abroad.

Get a VIP treatment from Goibibo.com

oibibo.com, one of the leading online travel sites in India, has launched a VIP programme, which allows travellers, who book their trip on the portal, to enjoy a personalised treatment on their arrival and a free ride to their destination. “Our customers are our superstars. Rather than investing in a Bollywood star for endorsements, we believe in investing in ventures that will make our travellers feel special. Goibibo’s VIP service has been born out of this philosophy,” says, Sanjay Bhasin, MD, Goibibo.com. Under the new programme, Goibibo members will get a special concierge service upon arrival - they will be welcomed by photographers and hostesses

holding personalised name placard. Then, they will be escorted to their special chauffer driven ride. Travellers can buy air and bus tickets, and book hotels and holidays, with Goibibo.com. It is a part of the MIH India Group and was launched in September

2009. Goibibo.com has strong technology, enabling it to serve its customers fast. Also,

it has the fastest process for rescheduling, cancellation and refunds.

Tour packages that pack a punch

oibibo.com, India’s leading online travel portal, has unveiled travel packages to a number of destinations, including Saurastra (Gujarat), Konkan (Maharashtra), Bihar (Buddhist Trails), Orissa and holy town of Shirdi. While its packages to Saurastra, Bihar and Orissa are for five nights and six days, to Konkan it

offers a package for six nights and seven days. The Shirdi package is, however, limited to two nights and three days. The packages are valid only till September 30, 2012. “If you like to enjoy the misty cool sea breeze of Saurashtra; lie in the lap of the Konkan valleys and feel the nature; soak in the fairytale setting of groves,

swaying royal palms and unending stretches of green at the world-class villas in Orissa; feel the rich ambience and culture of Buddhism in Bihar; or take a spiritual sojourn to Shirdi to find fulfillment in the land of Sai Baba, the packages are surely tailor-made for you,” says a spokesperson for the company.

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NEWSLINE

Live in a beer world

ow about sipping chilled beer on a warm September/ October day, and set off for exploring Bavarian culture, while the air is filled with festive mood? Interesting? Then, visit Munich during Oktoberfest, the world’s biggest beer festival. To be celebrated from September 22 to October 7, 2012, Munich’s Oktoberfest will be your biggest excuse to enjoy beer after beer! In its 179th edition,

the festival will be held in a 26-hectare of land, to amaze visitors from near and far. Plus, the average price for a litre of Oktoberfest beer will be just € 9.35, this year. There are certain things you may not want to miss - witness the tapping of the first October-beer-barrel by the Munich Mayor in the Schottenhamel Tent on September 22; watch the traditional costume parade through Munich on September 23; and family day that offers a lot of rides and performances on September 25. Also, there are certain things you must do! If you ever wanted to experience an exorcism or visit a haunted bathroom, Edmund Heckl’s Shocker is the right place to go. Seven new rooms wait for courageous visitors. Then, try some delicious Bavarian delights. Find your place in a beautifully decorated tent, and savour the taste of local specialties like

sausages of all kinds and of course a big variety of beers. Also try Kaiserschmarrn, a cut up pancake with extra sugar and raisins; yeast dumplings with vanilla sauce; radish and

horseradish; and frosted apple. If you visit the stands, you can hardly resist buying beer mugs, wheat beer glasses, bags, t-shirts and cups, all adorned with the official 2012 poster motif.

Get lost in the Korean F1 race

ead over heels in love with Formula 1 (F1) Grand Prix? Then, hesitate not even for once to be at the Korea International Circuit (KIC) in Yeongam, Jeollanam-do, from October 12-14, 2012, to witness 17th in the line of 19 races held around the world. Titled F1 Korean Grand Prix, it is the third race to be held in Korea. Besides enjoying the race, one can also spend quality time experiencing the local culture of the bustling coastal town. The race at the KIC, a hybrid circuit that combines two different racing courses, will be unique, as it is the longest circuit in Asia and

the second longest in the world, at 5.615 kilometres. At 5.793 kilometres, Monza Circuit is the longest circuit in the world.

One of the highlights of the KIC is that it is set against the ocean background, with parts of it stretching along the harbour. The surrounding

areas of Jeollanam-do will also provide a beautiful background of fall colours and scenic natural landscapes for the October race. The event is expected to catapult Yeongam County into a centre of motorsports in Asia. Equipped with a 14-meter long F1 pit building, a control tower, a media centre, a team building, grandstands (120,000 seats), parking lots and other amenities, KIC has everything in it to take care of the comfort of spectators and participants. The final race will be held in Sao Paulo, where the winner of the year will be declared, after adding up their points from al the 19 races.

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NEWSLINE

Thailand initiates steps to grow medical, wellness tourism

fter doing enough to highlight Thailand as a wedding destination in recent months, Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is slowly turning its focus on marketing the country as a medical and wellness tourism spot, among international travellers. As the first step, TAT has organised a FAM trip for nearly 90 tourism facilitators, health tourism organisations and health insurance companies from 18 countries, who met over 110 Thai medical and wellness providers, to learn

about the variety and high quality of services available in Thailand. The move is part of TAT’s dedicated efforts at generating tourism revenues of two trillion Baht by 2014. “Thai medical providers are well prepared and ready to expand into the global market. The FAM trip was an excellent opportunity for them to meet their international counterparts,” says, Suraphon Svetasreni, Governor, TAT. In addition to the meetings, TAT also organised a threeday trip for the delegation, to provide an opportunity

for them to get a of medical tourism first-hand experience products, including of Thai health and wellness spas, medical wellness providers, spas, and integrated hospitals, spas, and medicine and antispecialised clinics. aging products. There Thailand has 18 Suraphon Svetasreni is also a growing hospitals with Joint demand for Thai herbal Commission International medicines and therapy. It is (JCI) accreditation, the a great opportunity for us to highest number of any develop this segment further, Asian country. In the by drawing more travellers wellness spa sector, it is to avail of our wellness recognised by various and medical products and international agencies, as the services,” says, Vilaiwan spa capital of Asia. Twichasri, Deputy Governor “Visitors to Thailand are - Tourism Business and interested in a wide range Products, TAT.

Bangkok retains the world’s best city title

t seems, Bangkok is on a roll. The Thai capital, which is expected to draw a large number of international travellers in the current year,

has been lately named the World’s Best City by the globally renowned travel magazine Travel & Leisure. It is for the third time in a

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row that Bangkok is receiving this prestigious accolade, which is based on an annual survey conducted among the readers of Travel & Leisure magazine. Bangkok Governor Sukhumbhand Paribatra received the award at a glittering ceremony held in New York. The survey has Sukhumbhand Paribatra reportedly taken various factors, including location, scenery, art and culture, food, shopping, hospitality and cost-worthiness of a

destination into account, for finalising the winner. “We are proud to receive this prestigious award – a result of our warm hospitality, honesty and friendliness to the travellers from across the globe. Besides beautiful scenery, Bangkok has a lot to offer to the travellers - be its lifestyle, culture, tradition and various choices of food. The award reaffirms that we are good hosts for foreigners,” says, Paribatra. Travel & Leisure is one of the most famous travel magazines in the US, boasting about 30,000 readerships from around the world.

NEWSLINE

Foreign arrivals to Hong Kong shoot up

eiterating its status as a sought-after tourist destination among the international travellers, Hong Kong has registered a 15.5 per cent increase in foreign arrivals in the first six months of 2012. As per the available information, Hong Kong has received a total of 22.32 million international tourists during the firsthalf of the current calendar year. The main contributor to the growth was Mainland China, followed by North Asia, South-East Asia, Europe and Americas. Arrivals from Mainland China shot up by around 23 per cent on year-on-year basis, while there was an eight per cent increase in the arrivals from North Asia. However, the number of travellers from South-East Asia rose only by around three per cent. “We are encouraged to see that amidst the global economic uncertainties, our tourism industry has reported

a satisfactory growth. Growth was recorded in all short-haul and long-haul arrival figures, with Japan, South Korea, Philippines and Russia exceeding our expectations. The results certainly underline Hong Kong’s status as a preferred international travel destination and as Asia’s World City,” smiles, James Tien, Chairman, Hong Kong James Tien Tourism Board. During the period under discussion, Hong Kong has seen an eight per cent increase in Japanese visitors, seven per cent rise in the arrivals from South Korea and around 17 per cent growth in the Philippine tourists. From Russia, which is now Hong Kong’s fourth biggest European source market, arrivals soared by more than 56 per cent. To maintain the tourists flow in the remaining six months of the year, Hong Kong Tourism Board has taken a slew of measures.

“To address the volatile economic conditions, we will be closely monitoring changes in the macro environment. We will maintain flexibility in adapting our marketing strategies and make our best efforts to maintain a balanced

portfolio of visitors. We have already planned a series of mega events in the coming months to further enhance Hong Kong’s appeal and provide our tourism partners with different business platforms,” informs, Tien.

New York City bets big on Indian outbound market

f the recent visit of a Queens, The Bronx and tourism delegation from Staten Island and provided the New York City, to Mumbai and New Delhi is any indication, NYC & Company, New York City’s official marketing, tourism and partnership organisation, have intensified its efforts to increase its share of Indian outbound market. It was NYC & Company which led the tourism delegation to these Indian metros, to promote travel to New York City. The delegation that visited India highlighted all of New York City’s five boroughs - Manhattan, Brooklyn, 28

an update on the latest developments in the city.

“We are constantly increasing our focus on the Indian market. New York City is a destination that can be enjoyed by everyone, whether travelling for business or leisure. We are excited to be working closely with various tourism partners to further develop travel opportunities from all major cities,” smiles, Makiko Matsuda Healy, Vice President - Tourism Development, NYC & Company. In 2011, New York City welcomed an estimated 200,000 visitors from India.

ASIAN TRAVELLER | SEPTEMBER 2012

NEWSLINE

Tourism Australia charts new strategy for India

n a bid to win a major share of the Indian outbound travel market, Tourism Australia is set to launch a new marketing campaign in the country and conduct destination training programmes for frontline staff of travel agencies in key Indian markets. To be launched in August 2012, its new campaign will provide a clear picture of some of Australia’s best tourism attractions, experiences and products, to the discerning Indian travellers. “The campaign will feature many unique Australian attractions, including the Sydney’s harbour and Sydney Opera House, the Great Ocean Road and spectacular Twelve Apostles, Ayers Rock (Uluru), the Great Barrier Reef’s Lizard and Hayman Islands, Freycinet in Tasmania, and South Australia’s Kangaroo Island,” informs, Nishant Kashikar, Country Manager India, Tourism Australia. The destination training programmes for the travel agents will be held at major markets of Chennai, Bengaluru, Delhi, Kolkata,

experiences to their customers. “Destination trainings are an important aspect of Nishant Kashikar our trade strategy. Interactive training sessions are a great way for us to strengthen destination knowledge among frontline staff. This will also be a good opportunity for us to educate our travel partners on ‘Best of Australia’ experiences, which will be showcased through our new campaign about to be launched. We have had a great response for these insightful sessions in the past and look forward to another successful round of training programmes,” smiles, Kashikar. As part of its trade Mumbai and Hyderabad, The training, which will be development initiative, from mid September to early designed in a way to enhance Tourism Australia already October, 2012. Representatives awareness on the tourism runs an online training of Destination New South experiences in Australia and programme known as the Wales, Tourism Queensland, aid travel agency personnel Aussie Specialist Programme. Tourism Victoria and in planning itineraries and About 2,860 agents have South Australian Tourism handling customer queries, registered for the programme Commission are expected is expected to better equip with more than 710 qualified to participate in the training travel agents to sell best Aussie specialist agents programmes. of Australia products and across India.

Japan turns hot for Indians

t seems, the earthquake and tsunami that hit Japan in March last year hasn’t a bit reduced the tourist attraction of this archipelago of 6,852 islands among the Indian outbound travellers. If the latest reports are anything to go by, Japan has witnessed a 21 per cent increase in the number of Indian visitors in the first six months of 2012, compared to the same period, last year. “It gives us a great pleasure to notice that Indians increasingly prefer Japan

ASIAN TRAVELLER | SEPTEMBER 2012

for their outbound lifting the country out of travel. It is a remarkable the twin natural disasters development for Japan of 2011. The recovery of National Tourism Japanese tourism was Organisation (JNTO) given a further boost in Motonari Adachi and we are glad to know April this year, when our marketing activities in the World Travel and Tourism India are in the right direction. Council Global Summit 2012 India will continue to be one was held in the country. Japan of our key focus markets and has also seen rise of a number we expect steady increase in of new tourist spots, including the number of Indians visiting Tokyo Skytree, which opened Japan,” smiles, Motonari in May this year. In July, the Adachi, Executive Director, American travel magazine JNTO, Singapore Office. Travel & Leisure had listed Japan has made tourism as Kyoto as one of world’s top ten one their key priorities in upbest cities.

NEWSLINE

Singapore ties up with TripAdvisor, innovates its web

n a bid to allow travellers to personalise their trip to Singapore, based on the ratings, reviews and opinions from fellow travellers, Singapore Tourism Board (STB) has teamed up with TripAdvisor, the world’s leading travel website. TripAdvisor ratings, reviews and opinions on Singapore’s restaurants, attractions and shopping, as a result, will be displayed on YourSingapore. com, STB’s official website, and relying on it, travellers could easily customise their trip to Singapore. Currently, visitors planning a trip to Singapore can access event listings and information on places of interest from its official tourism website. With the addition of ratings, reviews and opinions from TripAdvisor, visitors will now be able to gain personal, honest insights from fellow travellers, who may share similar needs and preferences. This is expected to help visitors make better informed

decisions, while planning their trips. “Consumers today are well-travelled and discerning. They want to hear about authentic, in-depth local experiences from real travellers, and customise their itinerary with activities that cater to their specific interests and needs. We are glad to partner TripAdvisor to bring user-generated content to our website YourSingapore.com, to deepen the engagement

with visitors and value add to their trip planning for Singapore,” smiles, Sophia Ng, Assistant Chief Executive – Marketing, STB. STB will also collaborate with TripAdvisor to provide destination content for the latter’s Singapore City Guides mobile application’s Free Guided Tours, which enables travellers to select their own cultural, dining, entertainment, shopping and sightseeing experience

through seven user-friendly walking tours. “We are excited about this partnership, as it demonstrates STB’s desire to embrace trusted traveller reviews and enable visitors to make better informed decisions based on the insights and ratings of TripAdvisor’s global community of travellers,” says, Aaron Hung, Director - Partnerships APAC, TripAdvisor.

Dine and wine at Disney World

rom September end to the firsthalf of November 2012, Walt Disney World’s Epcot theme park will turn into a foodies’ world, as it is all set to hold the 17th edition of Epcot International Food and Wine Festival. The curtains for the culinary carnival, which will feature authentic cuisine from six continents and more than 300 verities of wines, will go up exactly on September 28 and come down on November 12. It will be a unique opportunity for the travellers to sip new wines, beers and cocktails, and savour delicious new marketplace tastes, while enjoying live entertainment all day long. The festival will, among other things, showcase more than 76 kinds of international foods and around 100,000 desserts, including Yogurt Panna Cotta with orange cake, raspberries and

pomegranate; Lemon Custard Verrine with blueberry compote; and Dark Chocolate Mousse with chilli and salted caramel. Besides food and wine, this 46day long food festival will offer some special entertainment programmes for the guests. They include concerts with entertainment ranging from rock and soul to funk and blues, and performances by acrobats, musicians, dancers and comedy troupes. During the festival nights, there will be fireworks display over Disney World’s World Showcase Lagoon. Another major attraction of the event is cultural exhibits from more than 25 international regions. Regarded as the largest food and wine festival of its kind in the world, Epcot Future World to promenade encircling International Food and Wine Festival the World Showcase Lagoon. will occupy Disney World’s space from

ASIAN TRAVELLER | SEPTEMBER 2012

NEWSLINE

Indonesia embarks on a great tourism makeover

n order to take the tourism industry to the next level of growth, Indonesia is all set to further develop its destinations and make them more attractive to the international travellers. As the first step, its government seems to have identified 16 priority destinations to be developed in the next few years. “We have identified as many as 16 priority destinations to be developed in the coming years. The target is not only to increase the number of tourists visiting the country, but to inspire good quality tourism and make them stay longer,” says, Mari Elka Pangestu, Minister for Tourism and Creative Economy, Indonesia. The destinations selected for the development include Lake Toba in North Sumatra,

Mari Elka Pangestu

Bagus Sudibya

Pangandaran in West Java, Borobudur-Prambanan areas in Central Java, YogyaSleman in Yogyakarta, Bromo-Tengger-Semeru area in East Java, Lombok and the Rinjani volcano, Flores in East Nusatenggara,

Wakatobi in Southeast Sulawesi, Toraja in South Sulawesi, Derawan islands in East Kalimantan, Pulau Weh in Aceh, Togean islands in Central Kalimantan, the Thousand Islands and Old Batavia in Jakarta, and Bali’s southern and northern coasts and Mount Batur. The country is also likely to focus on special interest tourism, including cruise, and meetings, incentives, conventions and exhibitions (MICE) segments. Of late, Bali has emerged as the

favourite destination among spiritual travellers. “Places like Kintamani, Besakih Temple and Pucak Mangu Temple in Pelaga have seen an increase in the number of pilgrim tourists, in the first-half of 2012. Most of such travellers request night visits to Tanah Lot Temple, as it is much quieter when the hordes of daytime visitors have left,” says, Bagus Sudibya, Deputy Chairman, Association of Indonesian Tour and Travel Agencies, Bali.

South Africa goes on roads to lure Indians

n a bid to attract more Indian travellers to explore South Africa, by showcasing its varied holiday experiences, South African Tourism has conducted its second round of roadshows in major cities of Mumbai, Ahmedabad, New Delhi and Kolkata. The roadshows attracted more than 900 India

tour operators and travel agents and offered a great platform for them to interact with hotel representatives, tour operators and tourism board members of South Africa and increase their knowledge of the Rainbow Nation. “I am pleased to see the promising response to the

second edition of our roadshow. It was a great platform for us to build new relationships in new markets and strengthen existing ones. Conducting this roadshow across the four key markets was very important, as it enabled partners from India and South Africa to interact and identify mutually beneficial areas of collaboration to promote tourist arrivals to South Africa. Seeing the encouraging response for this year’s roadshow, we are already planning for the 2013 roadshow series,” smiles, Hanneli Slabber, Country Manager, South African Tourism India Office. A land of wide variety of fascinating cultures and

local traditions, natural wonders, and regal wildlife, South Africa is where a traveller will never run short of options to engage in diverse entertaining Hanneli Slabber experiences. Top places that one can hardly miss here include Cape Town and Cape Peninsula, The Winelands, Robben Island, Garden Route, Kruger National Park, Durban beachfront, Soweto, Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve, Johannesburg and Wild Coast. As per the latest arrival figures, Indian tourist arrivals to South Africa has seen a jump of more than 22 per cent, with a total of 12,641 Indians visiting South Africa.

ASIAN TRAVELLER | SEPTEMBER 2012

NEWSLINE

IATO honours Capt. Nair with Hall of Fame Award

n recognition of the invaluable contribution to the tourism industry, the Indian Association of Tour Operators (IATO) has honoured Captain C P Krishnan Nair, Chairman of the Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts, with the Hall of Fame Award. Captain Nair received the award from Prithviraj Chavan, Chief Minister of Maharashtra, at the 28th annual convention of IATO, held recently in Mumbai. “It is a great honour to be recognised by an association that has successfully established itself as a leader, advocate and a catalyst for the responsible development of the Indian travel and tourism industry. This award motivates me to further serve and contribute towards the industry’s goals and initiatives,” smiles a joyous Captain Nair, who has several accolades, including the Padma Bhushan, in his kitty.

The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts, under the leadership of Captain Nair, have set a new benchmark for luxury hotels in India, providing discerning business and leisure travellers the finest in guest services. The Leela group has

seven award-winning hotels in prime urban and resort locations such as Mumbai, Bangalore, Gurgaon, New Delhi, Goa, Kovalam and Udaipur. Also, the company is expected to open the first seafront luxury palace hotel in Chennai, shortly.

With over 4,000 members, covering all sectors, IATO is the national apex body of the tourism industry. Established in 1982, IATO today enjoys international acceptance and close relationships with tourism associations in the US, Nepal and Indonesia.

ITC Grand Chola Chennai gets LEED Platinum rating

eaffirming its commitment to the ethos of responsible luxury, ITC Hotels has secured Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certificate with a platinum rating, for its soon

to be launched property ITC Grand Chola, Chennai. This distinction has made ITC Grand Chola, an iconic 600room premium luxury hotel, the world’s largest LEED Platinum hotel in the new construction category.

ASIAN TRAVELLER | SEPTEMBER 2012

The LEED Platinum rating, among other things, recognises the hotel’s commitment to perform to the highest standards of energy, water and waste efficiency. ITC Grand Chola is expected to meet cent percentage of electrical energy demands through renewable energy sources; use efficient fixtures to reduce the water use by 35 per cent; and recycle the waste it produces, for useful purposes. ITC has nine other super premium luxury hotels that have LEED Platinum ratings. The group’s philosophy is to deliver the best in luxury, whilst enabling planet positive experiences.

“Inspired by the architectural splendour and rich culture of the imperial Cholas, ITC Grand Chola is a tribute to the remarkable vision of a memorable era. It will have 10 food and beverage destinations, including two new brands - Royal Vega, which will showcase the grand vegetarian cuisine from the royal kitchens of India and Ottimo, an Italian kitchen. Another attraction is the 1,00,000 square feet of banqueting and convention space, including the largest pillar-less ballroom in the country at 30,000 square feet,” says an ITC spokesperson.

LUXURY

A Divine Intervention Your very own slice of private paradise in God’s Own Country – meet Kerala’s premier luxury lodgings and Business Destinations Magazine’s Luxury Spa Resort, India, 2012 – the Carnoustie Beach Resort & Ayurveda Spa, Mararikulam, Alappuzha, Kerala.

Ever imagined how a mix of refined luxury and unadulterated nature could create a unique blend of resort experience? Discover this and much more on an evocative journey of wellness and wonderment at Carnoustie Beach Resort and Ayurveda Spa, a bountiful landscape created on the theme of conservation and rejuvenation. When life takes a toll, there is no better place to seek refuge than in the welcoming arms of Mother Nature herself. This decision should bring you down to Kerala; a subtropical Indian State richly endowed with nature’s bounties. Following its balmy air, you’ll find refuge in backwater county,

ASIAN TRAVELLER | SEPTEMBER 2012

LUXURY Alappuzha, where none other than Carnoustie Beach Resort will welcome you to your idea of bliss. Carnoustie Beach Resort and Ayurveda Spa Set in 27 acres of virgin land, Carnoustie Beach Resort has been created to make both the modern vacationer and seasoned traveller feel at home. While there is plenty to do and explore at the resort, there is also opportunity to simply lie back on the curative brine of the Arabian Sea, or the soothing freshwater pool adjoined to your villa. From the putting green to the archery square, there are plenty activities to keep you engaged. If, however, you are on a soul searching trip, the paved path to the natural Spa will show you the way to banish your fatigue and make your past worries seem like a distant memory. This is the place where you will heal, and where you will finally come back to life. Just about an hour‘s drive from Cochin International Airport, Carnoustie Beach Resort is a sparkling jewel dotting the thread of the world-famous backwaters and beaches on the lap of lush tropical greenery in ‘God’s Own Country’, Kerala. In this heaven on earth, guests will find privacy, warmth, many moments of magic and the promise of utter contentment fulfilled during their stay.

the charming theme of frangipani that pervades the resort and has its own rainshower, Jacuzzi, bathtub and a private pool. While they offer an inimitable venue for rejuvenating your romance, the mid-range villas with their large format bedrooms and classic bath tubs also make for a perfect family rendezvous. The entry level villas, with their lily pools, offer not only the perfect embodiment of luxury, but a surprise garnishing of great value as well. The design of the villas is a perfect fusion of contemporary and traditional Kerala architecture spread across 27 acres of beachfront land. The natural features,

including a winding stream, as well as fauna, have been retained so as to keep the local eco flavour. An intriguing use of weft bamboo amidst the local warp of palm, thatched leaves and wood add to the natural, indigenous luxury of the resort too. In a breathtaking expression of contemporary and sustainable design, and in continuity with its natural surroundings, subtly infused with the essence of the tropics, each Villa is an exquisite example of space and privacy in perfect harmony. Under their lofty ceilings, the villas feature widescreen LED TVs

Sustainable design The resort has 40 villas that are separate worlds within themselves, and inside you’ll find every one secluded, serviced and equipped with every facility you would expect from a five-star environment. The premium villas reflect ASIAN TRAVELLER | SEPTEMBER 2012

LUXURY

the design of the villas is a perfect fusion of contemporary and traditional kerala architecture with surround-sound systems, BOSE iPod docking stations, broadband internet access, and as always; the dedicated services of a villa host to take care of your every whim.

‘God’s Own Country’ As you move seamlessly from one living area to the next, you will encounter the traditional spirit of the Kerala and its people; a destination

that through bespoke activities will become part of your personal journey. Kerala has emerged as one of India’s most acclaimed tourist destinations in the recent past. The World Travel and Tourism Council has selected Kerala as a ‘Partner State’, while National Geographic Traveller has named Kerala as one of the ‘ten paradises of the world’ and ‘50 must see destinations of a lifetime’. In and around the resort, vast lagoons along the rice fields, dense tropical forest, hilly tea, coffee & rubber plantations, high-range fresh water lakes, national parks, spice gardens and some of the finest beaches of India complete the destination experience of Kerala. The worldfamous Kerala Backwaters are a network of interconnected canals, rivers, lakes and inlets, a labyrinthine system formed by more than 900km of waterways across the state.

ASIAN TRAVELLER | SEPTEMBER 2012

LUXURY Eco-conservation At Carnoustie Beach Resort, nature will be your constant companion. Be it the sun and sand of an unspoilt stretch of beach, an eco-friendly villa made of local thatch, or cuisine that draws from the local influences. The Carnoustie Resort is committed to the environment and has adopted a green policy using efficient energy conservation techniques, At Carnoustie, you can enjoy therapeutic rituals with minimal lighting and recycled an array of water sports and modern-day research. The activities of your choice. Frolic doctors and expert therapists at water for landscaping. The villas and the facilities are in the back waters; try your Carnoustie will guide you on a hand at kayaking, canoeing, or rejuvenating journey of wellness. designed to reduce energy and take off on a backwater cruise, Surrounded by tranquil waters, water consumption with the use of exhaustible materials or aspeedboat cruise. the Spa at Carnoustie provides like Jute, Rattan Mats and the perfect space for your wood. Carnoustie Beach Resort individualised, holistic journey. is a place of rejuvenation and Signature therapy rediscovery; where every desire During your stay and Aryavaidyasala at Carnoustie is a whim to be indulged, and treatment, internationally and is a sanctuary of well-being. every possibility is a dream to A verdant eco-friendly resort nationally certified trainers be fulfilled. of sublime luxury and sheer and experts of the highest elegance, this resort evokes caliber will work towards a sense of style. Welcome to Further information: your everyday health with Carnoustie Aryavaidyasala; an abundance of wholesome +91 478 2830400/402/403 where centurie sold tradition energy for the body, mind and +91 85470 07772 ignites your senses and the spirit. In this environment nishanth@carnoustieresorts.com all compassing experience is of wellness, discover how to sales@carnoustieresorts.com designed to nurture and rebalance, invigorate your daily balance the body in times of reservations@carnoustieresorts.com lifestyle with new and unique change, pressure and stress. ayurveda@carnoustieresorts.com approaches to health and A collection of signature www.carnoustieresorts.com longevity. experiences combine ancient

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A ‘

V Duraikkannan

customer is the most important visitor on our premises. He is not dependent on us. We are dependent on him. He is not an interruption in our work. He is the purpose of it. He is not an outsider in our business. He is part of it. We are not doing him a favour by serving him. He is doing us a favour by giving us an opportunity to do so.’ These are not the words from the likes of founders of Wal-Mart or Nordstrom but from our own Father of the Nation, Mahatma Gandhi. True that he was a Baniya, a Gujarati businessman by birth but never was he into any business. But what an amazing description of the value of a customer! And how many of us really value the customer, the reason for any business? Last week, when my wife and I went to Tiruvannamalai for our periodical ‘girivalam’ (‘walking around the mountain’, the 14-kms path that skirts around the temple town), we just wanted to book a hotel room to leave our luggage for the day, or rather night, before we set out for the trek. All the hotels were running full, thanks to a host of weddings happening at the temple town on the day. It was difficult to get a room for ourselves but we finally managed one. As wife was checking by way

of reassurance about the cleanliness of the room, the manager of the hotel spoke very matter-of-factly, if not rudely: ‘Neat or not neat, I do not know! You take it, or leave it. In fact, I am doing you people a favour by giving this room!’ I was just wondering at the man’s way of doing business. Today, we might take his room on sufferance but tomorrow when the demand wears off, his place would not be our choice at all. Then, who is doing a disfavour now to whom? We expect the best of service when we are a customer but the same we act differently when we happen to be the service provider. Unless this dichotomy goes, it will be next to impossible to create a beautiful world. As I was taking delivery of my new car last month, I was asked to come after three days for doing the upholstery. The second day, I had a call from them as to how the vehicle was performing. I told them that everything was working fine, except that I had a slight problem with the shift of first

gear. When I was asked to go to them for rectification as immediately as possible, I just checked with them whether I could do it the next day, as I was scheduled for the upholstery work as well on the day. The relationship manager confirmed that I could get both things done the next day. But when I turned up at their office where I took delivery of the vehicle, they very casually told me that they would do the upholstery there but for the gear mechanism correction I should go to their workshop, which was elsewhere. When I stated that they should have accordingly briefed me, they only offered to educate me about how sales and service were two different activities. For all that, the company was, if not, a very reputed concern for its business philosophy. But so much for their customer orientation! Customer service, customer engagement and customer delight are an art by itself and a very creative one at that. Waiting at a restaurant for your order is nothing new. Most

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of the restaurants print the pre-emptive note in their menu card asking the customers to allow them 20 minutes for preparing and serving their order. However, a very modest and not so expensive a restaurant off Mount Road in Chennai surprised me with their innovative idea. On my sitting down at the table, the very next minute

the bearer placed a glass of water and the paper table mat for me and took my order and went away. The paper table mat had a crossword, a Sudoku, as well as other interesting bits and pieces of trivia printed on it. I am sure it would engage anybody at least for a while, allowing for the restaurant to get the food ready for him or her in the meantime. One would not run out of patience that soon and be making much fuss. At least, in my case, I asked the waiter to delay the serving to me by another five minutes, as I was just through with the crossword and half way through with the Sudoku. Customer service with creativity and honesty could win the customer hands down. Our experience in New York was a case study of

ASIAN TRAVELLER | SEPTEMBER 2012

another facet of customer service - honesty as its keystone! We were taking the cab from the place we were staying, Hotel Helmsley near the famed Sloan-Kettering Hospital in New York, to go to the Indian restaurant for our lunch, as the cokes and pizzas were becoming too unappetising for us. The coloured driver asked for the address and swung his car up in that direction for us. After a 15-minute drive through the milling traffic, he reached the point and pulled up the vehicle saying that we had reached the first street. But what we asked for was 31st street. When we told him that where we wanted to go was 31st and not the first street, he felt so bad and instantly apologised that he had not heard us aright. Immediately, he flagged down the meter

and took us to the 31st street, traversing the extra distance at no cost for us. His act raised not only the bar of customer orientation of the New York cabbies in general but in good measure about the hard work and honesty of the coloured people there! “We talked for ages of the move into the service economy but this notion that providing good service might actually attract and keep customers hasn’t really taken until recently. There has to be a definite shift from the hard sell to trying to help,” rightly says Alan Middleton, professor of marketing at the Schulich School of Business at York University. In fact, David Ogilvy does not just stop with helping the customers. He goes one step further and advocates ‘Romance your customer!’

INTERVIEW

With ample avenues for family fun, romance, adventure activities, being with nature, gourmet pleasures and active lifestyle, Singapore is undoubtedly a destination, which has something to offer to every traveller. And its focus on offering tailor-made experiences has turned it into a soughtafter destination in almost every segment of tourism. In an interview with Anil Mathew, Srithar GB, Area Director - South Asia Marketing, Singapore Tourism Board, spoke in detail about various tourist attractions and the steps the country has taken to position it as a favourite destination among all segments of international travellers. Edited Excerpts:

Charming Singapore YourSingapore! The brand tag, of course, says a lot about your promise to offer a personal (travel) experience to the visitors. How do you go about delivering the same and how has been the response to your campaign, so far? Singapore appeals to travellers for various reasons, and enriching experiences and family attractions are just a few of them. It is therefore important that we understand the interests and needs of different markets, and deliver the right experiences that resonate with the tastes of our visitors. Sticking to this principle of visitor-centricity, we have launched our new marketing campaign ‘The Holiday You

Take Home With You’ this year. Through this campaign, we highlight Singapore’s new enriching itineraries that are themed around gourmet pleasures, family fun, romance and active lifestyle.

As Indian travellers are digitally savvy, the marketing campaign include online and mobile advertising, a dedicated India landing page on YourSingapore destination website and social media

engagement efforts, including a facebook contest. The response to the campaign thus far has been very encouraging. One will, no doubt, easily connect Singapore with stunning architecture. While

ASIAN TRAVELLER | SEPTEMBER 2012

INTERVIEW the spectacular concrete jungle will surely cast a spell on the travellers, is there an option for them to escape to nature and its hidden treasures? Singapore is known as a city with a remarkable amount of greenery. Visitors are often pleasantly surprised to be greeted by greenery, as they exit Changi Airport and head towards the city centre. One can find numerous parks and green spaces across the island. With the opening of Gardens by the Bay, which I would say has rejuvenated the cityscape of the Marina Bay area, Singapore may very well be increasingly known as ‘the city in a garden’. Beyond the breathtaking panoramic views that can be enjoyed from the Singapore Flyer, the SkyPark and OneAltitude, there are various garden enclaves such as the Singapore Botanic Gardens, Southern Ridges, Tree Top Walk and Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserves. Singapore also has award-winning attractions like the Singapore Zoo, Night Safari (world’s first nocturnal zoo) and Jurong Bird Park. The Marine Life Park and River Safari are also due to open by the end of this year.

art fairs, and music and arts festivals, almost year-round. Visitors can explore the permanent and travelling exhibitions at The National Museum of Singapore, and The Singapore Art Museum, which earlier this year hosted ‘Dreams and Reality’ by Musée D’Orsay. Then, The ArtScience Museum at Marina Bay Sands is where one can enjoy art and science, design and architecture, and a calendar of international touring exhibitions. One will also love Marina Bay Sands Theatre that screens international Broadway Musicals and shows such as ‘Avenue Q’ (September 27 to October 7). Last year, we hosted a multitude of arts and entertainment events, including ArtStage Singapore, Singapore Biennale, the Singapore Arts Festival, M1 Singapore Fringe Festival, Mosaic Music Festival, and Timbre Rock and Roots Music Festival, featuring both local and international talent.

The demand for an active nightlife seems to be on the rise among the tourists, worldwide. Do you think Singapore has in it everything that is required to offer a memorable nightlife to the discerning travellers? Singapore takes on a If a traveller is interested fun-loving guise with a in tracking the culture and heritage of the country, and vibrant array of nightlife and entertainment choices. There its vibrant art scene, how are nightclubs, bars, lounges should s/he go about it? and live entertainment venues Which are the hotspots that for livewire revellers to party such travellers can’t afford the night away. to miss? Singapore’s thriving I must say, Singapore’s night entertainment scene effervescent arts and includes leading nightspots cultural scene bustles with like Zouk, which hosts annual diversity and local flavours. dance festival ZoukOut with It opens doors to rich international live acts, and and contemporary global clubs like the Butter Factory, influences, while the city St James Power House, remains distinctively Asian. Avalon and Pangaea. Other Arts enthusiasts will surely be great options for a memorable spoilt for choice, as we have a night party include Clarke number of art museums and Quay, which hosts an active cultural spaces. We also hold calendar of parties, and 42

Gardens by the Bay

Marina Bay Sands

Skypark

Resorts World sentosa - Universal Studios

ASIAN TRAVELLER | SEPTEMBER 2012

INTERVIEW rooftop bars such as OneAltitude, Ku De Ta and Kinki, which offer magnificent views of the Singapore cityscape. Besides music and entertainment, food and dining also make up the nightlife scene. For foodies, many eateries such as Newton Food Centre and Maxwell Food Centre stay open till late-night, offering a variety of sumptuous local fares. How right would it be to say, Singapore is both a shoppers’ paradise, and a perfect meetings, incentives, conferences and events (MICE) venue? What all initiatives have you taken to draw more shopaholics and MICE, to the country? Singapore has always been a favourite destination for shopping. In 2011, tourism receipts from shopping accounted for 20 per cent of total tourism receipts, a 13 per cent increase from 2010. Shoppers have a variety of choices, from world-class retail options for international and local brands, to malls along Orchard Road where one can more than just shop and integrated resorts that offer cutting-edge labels and international brands. This year, Orchard Road was

named the top shopping street in the world, beating 29 other premier shopping belts, including Paris’ Champs Elysees and London’s Bond Street, in a mystery shopping survey conducted by the French marketing consultancy Presence Mystery Shopping. Ethnic precincts in Singapore like Little India, Arab Street, Chinatown and Joo Chiat are popular alternative shopping haunts, with independent shops catering to special interests. A recent survey by Global Language Monitor has ranked our country as the world’s eighth most fashionable cities, up seven places from 15 in 2011. We will continue working with the retail industry to organise events such as the Great Singapore Sale, Singapore JewelFest and Asia Fashion Exchange, which have contributed to our growing reputation as a fashion capital in the heart of Asia. Singapore is also recognised as an excellent MICE destination and has welcomed around 3.2 million business travellers, last year. In fact, they form about 24 per cent of total visitors to the country. Business travellers have spent

Shopping on Orchard Road

about S$5.6 billion in 2011 and it accounts for 25 per cent of total tourism receipts. The MICE business is highly competitive and we will as always work with our business travel and MICE

Singapore Flyer

ASIAN TRAVELLER | SEPTEMBER 2012

partners to develop industry capabilities and innovative ways to provide quality experiences that meet the needs of event organisers and business visitors. We will also continue to partner MICE businesses to develop or enhance events that complement our core sectors like travel and tourism; biomedical and healthcare; infocomm technologies; environment and energy; and banking and finance. How important a segment is family holidays, for you? Compared to other Asian countries, what all unique offerings you have for families? Indian travellers, today, possess a more global worldview, and in-market interactions with them have uncovered their preference to travel and bond together with family members and 43

INTERVIEW share experiences. In our ‘The Holiday You Take Home With You’ campaign, ‘family fun’ is one of the core pillars that we have identified and we have created a customised itinerary for friends and families visiting Singapore. We offer an incredible depth and breadth of enriching experiences, with diverse sights, sounds, tastes, cultures and attractions. A key point of differentiation is that these multiple experiences are concentrated in a compact and user-friendly city, which is easy to get around. Located just a few hours from India and with a culture that is global yet Asian, we also offer a low-crime and politically stable environment that are particularly important factors for families. According to you, what are the must sees/dos in Singapore? Visitors will enjoy delving deeper into adventurous activities, be it ‘Diving with the Dolphins’ at Sentosa, or mastering a new skill like skydiving at iFly, or flying with Flight Experience’s simulator, or surfing at Wavehouse. Learning can also be fun on board an amphibious vehicle with the Captain Explorer DUKW Tour, a combined land-andsea city tour that showcases key landmarks such as the Esplanade, Padang and the iconic Merlion. Other popular experiences include the thrill of 24 stateof-the-art movie-themed rides, including 18 attractions designed specifically for Singapore at Universal Studios Singapore, the only Universal Studios in SouthEast Asia. The Singapore Zoo and Night Safari continue to draw families, while the Science Centre Singapore offers a wide range of enrichment programmes and 44

appetites of global visitors. We have recently launched a customised ‘Leave a Foodie, Return a Chef’ culinary itinerary as part of the ‘The Holiday You Take Home with You’ campaign, to showcase the myriad experience that a visitor could partake in with friends and family during their holiday in Singapore.

SkyDining at Singapore Flyer

Skypark

Which are your major source markets? What all initiatives have you unveiled so far to retain your main markets and capture new ones? Singapore has been a popular international destination among Indian travellers. We will continue to sustain its reach in metropolitan cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, Kolkata and Chennai. We also have plans to explore emerging cities such as Ahmedabad, Pune, Hyderabad, Ludhiana and Chandigarh.

How do you see the arrivals from India, over the last five years? Which are the key segments you are targeting here and how do you plan to win them? India has consistently Jurong Bird Park Jurong Bird Park emerged as one of the top five performing markets for interactive exhibits that will We have observed that Singapore in the last five Indian travellers enjoy make science inspiring and exciting for visitors of all ages. experimenting with food and years, in terms of international visitor arrivals and tourism are willing to taste the local One is also advised to receipts. The areas that appeal flavours of the country they savour local flavours from to Indian travellers include are visiting. For instance, the hawker centres such as gourmet pleasures, romance, Makansutra Food Safari Trail, Singapore’s Chilli Crab and family fun and active lifestyle. Gluttons Bay, Singapore Food ‘Laksa’ are popular with They often seek an experiential Indians. Annual culinary Trail and Rasapura Masters. and engaging journey of One can also take part in events like the Singapore culinary workshops, where Food Festival, World Gourmet discovery. As part of our marketing campaign, we one may learn to cook one’s Summit and Beerfest Asia have embarked on strategic favourite Singaporean cuisine. usually draw an increasing number of Indian travellers. In collaborations with specialised It seems, you are betting fact, some of them deliberately travel partners in India to big on culinary tourism, nowadays. How a promising plan their visit to the country co-create and offer itineraries along these themes. Mercury to coincide with these segment is this in general Travels markets culinary and epicurean delights. and how do you plan to tap We are regarded as South- romance packages, while it? Do you think, people will Thomas Cook promotes East Asia’s culinary capital travel long distances only to and our love affair with food active lifestyle and family fun have the best gastronomic has always impressed the packages, in India. experience? ASIAN TRAVELLER | SEPTEMBER 2012

THE CZECH REPUBLIC

Seductively beautiful The Czech Republic has more than an old-world charm to offer the travellers, including a taste of modern European lifestyle, says Radka Neumannova

he Czech Republic, a central European country often referred to as the heart of Europe, is where you can live every moment of your leisure or business travel, shopping, spa experience, or golf game, to its fullest. It is a land of unique architecture and cultural heritage, which makes your visit an exclusive walk through the lanes of European history. The Czech Republic has always been Europe’s true hub, offering an opportunity to taste a modern European lifestyle in a unique architectonical and natural setting. Hence, the Czech Republic, a country of 10 million people, annually attracts more than six million visitors. The magical atmosphere of Prague, its capital city, draws more than

three million people, each year. Prague is one of the 12 UNESCO sites in the Czech Republic, and together with the outstanding views and breathtaking panoramas, the city offers a wide range of entertainment, leisure activities, and avenues for shopping the famous Bohemia crystal. Prague is, without any question, the most attractive tourist destination in the Czech Republic. The city of a hundred spires on the River Vltava is known to people from practically the whole world and is regularly voted among the 10 most beautiful cities in Europe. Aside from the poetic attributes, its comparison to a European textbook of architectural styles, most describes the singularity of Prague. A

riveting textbook, indeed, as the main roles here are played by Romanesque rotundas, Gothic steeples and cathedrals, Renaissance mansions and palaces, Jewish synagogues, Baroque churches and cloisters, and modern architecture delights of Cubist and Art Nouveau monuments. All this in the 866 hectares of the historic centre of Prague entered in the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1992. Prague, the Golden City of Hundred Spires, where cobblestone streets, quaint cafes and walks by the Vltava River set the tone for a beautiful stay, is a perfect location for any occasion. It is perhaps one of Europe’s most historic cities. Its 1000 years old past is preserved in a range of architectural styles

– witness Gothic architecture at the Charles Bridge and Baroque at St Nicolas Church; Art Nouveau comes alive at the Municipal House, while The House of Black Madonna is a Cubist lover’s delight. It is a magical labyrinth, where the most powerful men, artists and emperors of Europe met and left their legacy. It is a city to blend in and become a part of, at least for a while. Prague is also a Mecca for musical performances. Don’t forget that the Czech Republic has a long and very rich musical tradition. W.A. Mozart lived in Prague and wrote some of his best pieces from here. His opera ‘Don Giovanni’ was specially composed for the Prague audience. Among famous Czech composers are Bedrich Smetana, Antonin Dvorak or Leos Janacek. Today, international artists are congregating in this part of East Europe for countless music dos and performances like, for example, Prague Spring that is held every May. There are over a 100 concert halls, cinemas and music clubs in the city. Art shows abound and ballroom dancing, which the Czechs are masters at, lend the town an old-world charm. For a laidback day though, grab a local brew and traverse the length of Prague’s Lesser Quarter, a picturesque part of the town with charming houses, stunning churches and exquisite sculptures. Most jazz clubs and music bars in the Old Town are located in historic premises and thus amaze their guests with the unusual contrasts of old and modern. Those who want to get to know the Czech Republic more thoroughly, however, must set out on a journey through the other beauties of the country, where an

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THE CZECH REPUBLIC expedition into history, a ramble through nature, a challenge on the golf course, or relaxation in a spa awaits. Quite simply, experiences that won’t be forgotten!

A wealth of history

The former inhabitants of the Czech lands did not skimp on presentable living. They have bequeathed to their contemporaries 2,000 castles and chateaux. A 10th of these are open to the general public. Medieval castles, with drawbridges and graceful aristocratic residences, are some of the biggest cultural attractions of the Czech Republic. You will also have the sensation that time has stood still in the historic towns. This is particularly so, if you arrive during the time of popular festivals, which commemorate significant events, or historical figures. The Czech Republic has one of the highest concentrations of UNESCO sites in the world. Since 1992, some 12 Czech sites have been added to UNESCO’s list of world heritage sites, and a further 12 are candidates to enter this exclusive club. Since 2005, the Czech Republic has a UNESCO Geopark, the Czech Paradise area. All of these UNESCOlisted sites are within easy reach of the capital city, with journey times ranging from 30 minutes to three hours,

by car. The Czech collection of UNESCO sites includes historical town centres, Christian and Jewish holy sites, chateaux surrounded by wonderful gardens, a village in the folk Baroque style and one example of modern architecture. The Jewish quarter in Trebic has special status, as it is the only Jewish site outside of Israel to come under UNESCO’s protection. The Czech is supposedly the most atheist nation in Europe, but an admirable number of ecclesiastical monuments certainly suggest otherwise. The Byzantine missionaries Cyril and Methodius came to Moravia at the end of the ninth century in order to spread Christianity and establish the first churches. Jewish culture has the same long history as Christianity in the country. More than 200 Jewish

Krivoklat - Glassware

ASIAN TRAVELLER | SEPTEMBER 2012

cemeteries, synagogues and Jewish quarters bear witness to their 1000-year presence.

Cesky Krumlov

Cesky Krumlov, one of the most beautiful and scenic historic European towns, lies south of Prague, nearby the Austrian border. Its charming houses and streets still conceal numerous secret legends and myths. Dominated by a castle, stretching over the meandering Vltava River, the town’s narrow cobblestone streets are full of attractive exhibits of worldrenowned artists, festivals and performances. Even if you do not visit Cesky Krumlov during the festive occasions, you can enjoy some of the popular Krumlov Mystery Tours which make you live through the mysterious stories and secret messages graven in the historical buildings. If you head to Cesky Krumlov, you should not as well miss the tour to the local brewery. The tradition of brewing beer in Cesky Krumlov goes back to the very beginnings of the town. Cesky Krumlov, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is also a lively cosmopolitan town surrounded by unspoiled countryside. Boat, rafting, or bike trips will take you around the surroundings of Cesky Krumlov, where you

can enjoy the historic sites and landscape scenery. The cosy inns, coffee shops and ancient taverns entertain a diverse international crowd.

Spas that heal

A unique collection of natural healing springs, centuries-old tradition of their use under qualified personnel, and nearly 40 spa sites with beautiful architecture of colonnades and parks – the combination of these factors places the Czech Republic among the world’s spa power. The success of Czech spas is, above all, connected to the quality of medical care and the progressive treatment and rehabilitation methods using natural elements - mineral waters, medical peloids (fen, peat and mud), natural gases and the positive influence of climate. The time when only convalescents and seniors came to the spas is long gone. Today, the range of spa programmes also includes popular wellness programmes. Here you can try, for example, programmes for anti-stress, weight reduction, detoxification, or wellness and beauty. Czech spas also promote so-called medical wellness – a harmonic combination of the use of natural healing springs and qualified medical care along with a wide range 47

THE CZECH REPUBLIC you can taste the town’s famous mineral springs for yourself. And, it is a must do! Do not miss the largest and best known Vridlo (Giant Hot Spring), which spurts its healing waters to a height of almost 12 metres. Karlovy Vary is also famous for the world-renowned Bohemian crystal, Moser and Thun porcelain, while a taste of the traditional, local liqueur (liquor) Becherovka, made of herbs and sweet local wafers, is recommended to complete the Karlovy Vary experience. of wellness procedures and other activities (golf, nordic walking, etc). You will find the best-known Czech spas in the so-called spa triangle, which connect the Karlovy Vary (Carlsbad), Marianske Lazne and Frantiskovy Lazne spas. You can as well try very unique Beer spa, cold treatments and many other specialities. But don’t forget that there are another 30 spa sites functioning around the entire country!

Karlovy Vary

Karlovy Vary is a worldrenowned spa retreat nestled amid the picturesque mountains of West Bohemia. Karlovy Vary was founded in 1358 by King Charles IV and since then it was famous throughout the world for its medicinal mineral hot springs. Down the years, celebrities such as Russian tsar Peter the Great and the famous poet Johann Wolfgang von Goethe have praised the curative effects of the town’s mineral springs. Modern times Karlovy Vary is also known for the annual Karlovy Vary International Film Festival, attended by many internationally famous directors and film stars. Walk along the enchanting open air colonnades, where

Active holiday

Long for long walks in nature connected with a visit to a mysterious ruin or a garden restaurant? Organised tourism has a tradition of over 100 years in the Czech Republic, and people have been walking on the perfectly marked trails that are several generations old. The youngest generation likes to get on a bike and leave tens of kilometres of varied terrain behind them. International cycle routes lead them to Vienna and to Paris. The most popular are wine routes through the South Moravia, connecting Vienna and Austria bike routes. In the summer, mountain centres serve as starting points for hikes, and in the winter they offer a base for skiers. Visitors don’t have to be concerned about the moods of the weather – artificial snow is provided as a matter of course, along with better accommodation facilities, infrastructure and opportunities for entertainment. The concept of “all in one place” is accomplished with ski schools, services as well as rentals. Sought-after ski centres include Krkonose (the Giant Mountains), the Jizera Mountains, Sumava and Jeseniky. The most

unusual landscapes of rock towns and mazes and canyons can be admired in Bohemian Switzerland, or Bohemian Paradise. These unique sandstone structures and shapes will stun all the travellers. If golf is your passion, there is no better place on earth for a unique golfing experience. Czech Republic – The Golf Republic! This self-confident promotional slogan definitely does not exaggerate. More than 100 clubs, over 80 courses, a season from the end of March to mid-November, year round indoor golf, quality service and attractive fees these are all reasons why the Czech Republic is gaining a more and more prominent place on the world golfing map.

MICE

The Czech Republic has all the qualifications to become an attractive destination for organising congresses and incentive programmes. In

Prague, as well as other Czech cities, you will find a quiet and safe MICE destination with excellent accessibility, thanks to five international airports and international rail connections, and many luxury hotels and conference centres that meet international standards, as regards to quality and capacity. Facilities with capacities for more than 5,000 individuals also feature on the list of locations suitable for holding congresses. One of the indisputable advantages of holding a congress in the Czech Republic is the value of the services provided, as compared to the price. The price of your event will be at a reasonable level, even while maintaining highly professional services. This applies doubly, if you decide to organise your meeting outside of the capital city – the prices are lower by several tens of per cent, though the level of services offered is no different.

ASIAN TRAVELLER | SEPTEMBER 2012

TAIWAN

A place to fall in love

Taipei 101

A holiday in Taiwan is worth for reasons more than one, writes Rajesh Sethi, who enjoyed every bit of the moments he spent in this dream land

was recently invited by the Taiwan Tourism Bureau India Representation Office for a week-long FAM trip to Taiwan. When I accepted the invitation, I knew I was in for an adventure to a destination that is beautiful, yet remains unexplored from the Indian outbound market. We took a comfortable flight on Cathay Pacific from New Delhi, to Taipei Hong Kong. I personally feel that 50

Taiwan, which is officially known as the Republic of China, should boost its route from India, to increase traffic. Cathay Pacific Airlines is a good option to fly into Taiwan via Hong Kong. Other alternatives include China Airways that flies direct into Taipei and Thai Airways. We landed at the Taoyuan International Airport in Taipei, which is very modern and edgy in its design and

has a number of stores, restaurants and cafes. The airport authorities are busy expanding the airport area. The weather, when we reached, was pleasant and it was not very surprising, considering Taiwan is a 12month destination, thanks to the temperate climate. Our first sight-seeing stop in Taipei was the beautiful Taipei 101. The feeling, when we were whisked up in the

worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fastest elevator to the 89th floor of the buildingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s observatory, is indescribable. The sweeping aerial views of Taipei City and the profusion of high-end boutiques and stores in the shopping area of the building are not to be missed. Our next stop was the National Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, which is a famous Taipei monument, landmark and tourist attraction

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TAIWAN

Yehliu Geological Park

that was erected in memory of Generalissimo Chiang Kai-shek, former President of the Republic of China. The monument is beautiful and we especially enjoyed seeing the changing of the guard ceremony there, which was very regal and royal. We ended the day with a taste of Taipei’s nightlife. Taipei has a number of bustling night markets, where you can get to enjoy street foods and pick up many souvenirs. The city also has a number of pubs, bars and discos that are very busy on Wednesday nights, which is ‘ladies night’, and on weekends. From Taipei, we went to Hualien by the high speed rail which has a very cuttingedge and amazing design – it is extremely clean, and is a

quick and effective way to commute. We reached the Taroko National Park, where in a single afternoon you can see rugged coastal cliffs, a

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maze of subtropical forested canyons and high elevation subalpine coniferous forests. In about 60 kilometres, the landscape rises from the sea

level to some of the tallest peaks in Taiwan at over 3400 metres. It was, indeed, an amazing sight! The area also has a deepest marble canyon in the world and about 144 species of birds, 10 per cent of which are indigenous to Taiwan. The place is also home to over 30 large species of mammals, including deer, boar and bear. There are about 251 species of butterflies, 32 species of reptile and 18 species of fish, so we were in superb company. Our next stop was the Hualien Farglory Ocean Park, which is an ideal stop for kids and families. The park had a number of attractions, including a lot of birds and animals, which drove the children wild. I loved the cable car ride which gave us an aerial view of the park. I really enjoyed my time on the Jiufen Old Street that is nestled in the hills of northeast Taiwan. In the olden days, this was a prosperous gold trading town, with a lot of energy and buzz. There is still evidence of that activity here. The street is alive with a number of tea houses, quaint cobbled roads, stunning ocean views and a wide range of novelty and

Taroko National Park

TAIWAN

Shilin Night Market

souvenir shops. I spent time walking on this beautiful road and hogged the stalls selling Taiwanese beverages and snacks. We then proceeded to the beautiful North Coast National Scenic Area. The North Coast is particularly worth seeing, thanks to its many geological marvels such as the huge igneous boulders of the Jumping Stone Coast, and the natural stone arch of Shihmen, formed over centuries by wind and water erosion. Further along the coast is one of the most amazing and strangest of Taiwan geological wonders - the Yeliou Geological Park. Sedimentary rock, over 200 million years old, extends as a peninsula north into the sea. The combined effect of the wind and waves has, over millennia, shaped the rock into a series of natural sculptures, which are both unusual and beautiful. Most famous among these is the Queen’s Head, which if seen from the right angle resembles the profile of an Egyptian queen, complete with full head and a crown. There are also many other interesting formations, such as the Tofu Rock, which looks like giant slabs of smooth tofu; the Fairy Shoe, which resembles a huge traditional Chinese slipper; and the Candle Rocks, which look like slender pillars of candles standing along the shore. This stretch of the coast is also one of the best places on the island for viewing

migratory birds, especially in spring and autumn. In addition to the natural scenic wonders of the coast, the old port of Danshuei is among the most charming places in Taiwan to get a sense of its history. Founded by the Spanish across the river from the foot of Guangyin Mountain during the 16th century, it served as the island’s main port for most

Farglory Ocean Park

of the 19th century. The town is full of enchanting winding lanes and traditional old houses. The sunset over the estuary is always beautiful and many tourists visit the site especially for this sight. There are plenty of Indian restaurants in Taiwan, offering complete Jain and vegetarian meals and I was happy to see they are very open to their client’s

suggestions and requirements. Another must-do in Taiwan is to shop for electronic gadgets from the popular Guang Hua Digital Plaza Electronic Market. Spread over six floors, this is the ultimate place for electronic shopping and I picked up a number of latest gadgets from there! I definitely felt that Taiwan is a very safe, clean destination with enormous potential, from the Indian outbound point of view. I found it especially safe, as we could openly roam about late into the night. There has never been a terrorist attack in Taiwan! I also found the Taiwanese people very helpful – we always had someone helping out with directions whenever we got lost! (The author is the Managing Director of Carnation Holidays)

Taroko National Park

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MACAU

Fun, everywhere If it is entertaining, yet different experiences that you are looking forward from a destination, Macau will surely suit your palate. Asian Traveller tells why

ant to try something new, this season? Then, head to Macau, a jewel among the famed isles of the world and experience a scintillating destination with a difference! A perfect family holiday destination that it is, it is where you can, along with your family members, live every moment of luxury shopping, the time you spend at flea markets, walking tours around heritage landmarks and upbeat locations of the city, adrenaline-pumping adventure activities and digging into delectable cuisines. This erstwhile Portuguese colony, situated on the tip of the peninsula formed by the Zhujiang

(Pearl River) estuary on the east and the Xijiang (West River) on the west, indeed has something for everyone. Macau, which lies about 60 kilometres west of Hong Kong and very adjacent to Zhuhai, the southern entry point to China, is small, yet infinitely varied, and you can hardly resist the temptation to detour from a set itinerary. It is, just as Hong Kong, a Special Administrative Region of Peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Republic of China but all in all has an entirely different system from that of China. Spread across around 29.7 square kilometres, this family entertainment centre owes a part of its charm to its modern buildings that rub shoulders with restored

colonial edifices, temples, churches and Chinese gardens. It is where you can also enjoy an active, fun-filled nightlife and glittering shows. Its casinos nothing but add more spice to your stay in this part of the dragon land. Take a walk around the city to experience the oldworld charm of the region, once nourished by the Portuguese colonial masters. The places to be explored

on foot include the heart of town that comprises the main shopping belt Avenida de Almeida Ribeiro; the historic suburbs of Guia Hill; and the landmarks of heritage such as the Rua de S. Paulo and Monte Fort. Rows of colourful shops can be found on the streets of Avenida do Infante D. Henrique, S. Domingos Market, Rua da Palha, Rua do Campo, and Rua Pedro Nolasco da Silva. One of the attractions you will find here is the flea market, a popular spot to look for Chinese antiques and collectibles. Shops selling liquor, tobacco and Portuguese wine are largely found on Avenida de Almeida Ribeiro street, while jewellery or gold shops are aplenty along the stretch that starts from Largo do Senado and head towards the inner harbour along the Avenida de Almeida Ribeiro. One of the wonders that you can hardly miss in Macau is the Macu Tower. And you can very well kickstart your adventure journey in this part of the world by conquering this highest summit in the city. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a

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MACAU

338-metre tall architecture, depicting an epitome of incredible designing. Feel the thrill as you stand at the top of the tower, after climbing the mast’s vertical ladders. The Macu Tower is just an example that Macau won’t disappoint adventure lovers. However, if you want to indulge in adventure activities, you should be ready to challenge your limits. Another must try for adventure seekers is the SkyJump, which takes one on a 20-second flight over Macau’s breathtaking cityscape. This new hybrid of bungy jumping and skydiving is listed in the Guinness Book of World Records, under the category of World’s Highest Commercial DeceleratorDescent. And, now you know, why you should be ready to challenge your limits! If you desire more outdoor

fun, another exciting thing to indulge in is water-sports in Coloane Island. The island houses two of the best beaches in Macau - Cheoc Van Beach and Hác-Sá Beach, which offer the very best of beach holidays. These beaches are always crowded with a large number of swimmers and sunbathers. Watersports facilities, Olympicsize swimming pool for adult and children, mini golf courses, tennis courts, and picnic and camping areas add more charm to the beaches. You can also find an array of snack stands, cafes, several restaurants with esplanades and swimming pools, a Portuguese Inn, and a Nautical Club that provides equipment for canoeing and windsurfing, here. Coloane Island is one of the two famous islands in Macau and it is connected to

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the Taipa Island, the other popular island in the region, by a 2.2 kilometres long dual Causeway, built in 1969. The tranquil environment, the serene beaches, A Ma shrine, Tam Chin Temple and the cultural village, facilities for adventure tourism, etc., have metamorphosed Coloane Island into a tourist paradise. The Tam Chin Temple is known for a whalebone replica of a ship fitted with a wooden dragon’s head. The island, among other things, also offers two amusing hiking trails. Energetic walkers and adventure lovers are sure to get bursting thrill and satisfaction in their arduous Coloane Trail, which ends at the summit of Alto de Coloane. Those seeking leisure trails may opt for a placid and less sticky stroll around the Dam Circuit near the Hac Sa Beach.

Coloane Island is an islet full of pine trees, eucalyptus woods and farming land. Far from the hustle and bustle of the city life, the island offers a relaxing and peaceful background to swim, have picnics, and purely enjoy the riches of nature. There is also a Nautical Entertainment Centre, located at Hác-Sá Reservoir Park, where different boats and water scooters are available for rent. Besides nature trails, this place houses a barbecue area, a jogging track, a coffee shop and a snack bar. Apart from sightseeing, shopping and other activities, one of the ‘not-to-be-missed’ experiences in Macau is its food. It is where your taste buds will be well taken care of. Dig into the world famous egg tarts, some scrumptious African chicken, appetising sea-food, mouth-watering dim sums and more! It is hard to find another city, with such a concentration of so many different cuisines to suit so many tastes, at all price points. While a leisure traveller won’t ever be disappointed with Macau, as it offers enough of intoxicating tourism products and services, the addition of multi-billion dollar resorts and luxury hotels that come with world-class conference and meeting facilities, not only enhances the value

MACAU

of Macau as a sought-after family holiday destination, but also places it top in the chart of favourites among corporates for their meetings, incentives, conferences and events (MICE) requirements. To boost its business tourism sector, Macau Government Tourist Office (MGTO) has recently introduced an incentive travel stimulation programme, to

incentive activity. Also, realising the growing importance of the student tourism sector, MGTO has launched a student excursion incentive scheme. To avail of the benefits under this scheme, a group should have a minimum of 50 nonlocal students and stay in Macauâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hotels for two consecutive nights. The scheme, among other things, provides support to their take care of activities like team related activities in building, award dinners and Macau, offering tourist local transportation for the information kits and organisers and/or planners facilities in liaison of the incentive travel. An with other relevant incentive group with a government entities minimum of 50 non-local and schools/colleges/ participants and at least two universities. consecutive nights of stay in More deluxe resorts Macau will get a maximum are expected to make support of MOP$ 300, on their debut in Macau, actual consumption per nonshifting the focus local participant, for their

from roulette to razzmatazz, convention tourism and family entertainment. Even now, memories of a rollicking holiday in Macau will stay with you, even when the photographs start to fade. Then, just imagine the sweetener effect that the new infrastructure will add!

ASIAN TRAVELLER | SEPTEMBER 2012

Go wild, in the wilds If you want to discover nature and its offerings in all possible ways, challenging even your limits, Taman Negara is the place for you, says Lekshmi P

o most people Malaysia conjures up images of Kuala Lumpur, Putrajaya, Penang, Redang Island, Johor Bahru, Kajang, Ipoh, Seremban, Malacca City, Kota Bharu and Kuala Terengganu, etc. It has but another set of destinations, such as Pulau Pangkor, Sabah, Sarawak, Genting Highlands, Taman Negara and Tioman, which offer another dimension of life and an entirely different gamut 58

of tourism products and services. A trip to Malaysia will remain incomplete, without exploring one such destination. Taman Negara, famous for adventures, top the list of such destinations and it is where you can trek through lush vegetation, trail after bright-coloured birds, indulge in adventure activities and encounter wildlife. Taman Negara is one of the oldest rainforests in the world and it has been around ASIAN TRAVELLER | SEPTEMBER 2012

MALAYSIA for the past 130 million years. Spread over 4,343 square kilometres, it is also one of the richest and most varied eco-systems in the world, and nature can be enjoyed in all her wondrous and varied glory, here. As you go into the heart of the tropical rainforest, you can find South-East Asia’s tallest tree, Buttressed Tualang, which towers over 200 feet. Taman Negara National Park, home to misty mountains, mysterious caves, rapids and waterfalls, will surely surprise you with its exciting adventure tourism offerings. Cave exploration is one of the must do activities, here. And it’s an opportunity to enter a mysterious world, populated by bats, racer snakes and strange insects, with fascinating stalactite and stalagmite rock formations. The most popular caves, where tourists flock to in large numbers, include Gua Telinga, Gua Peringat, Gua Kepayang, Gua Daun Menari and Gua Besar. Marvel at the

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tallest limestone outcrops in Peninsular Malaysia at Gua Peringat, and if you prefer, you can even spend a night in caves like Kepayang Besar, Kepayang Kecil, Luas, or Daun Menari. Jungle trekking is another interesting activity you can indulge in Taman Negara. Take an adventure trail to Bukit Teresek, and savour the magnificent panoramic view of Gunung Tahan, from its peak. Other popular trails worth trying include Lubok Simpon, Gua Telinga,

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tui-deutschland.de

Bumbun Kumbang Hide and Lata Berkoh. You should also try canopy walkway, which, at about 40 metres above the ground, offers a bird’s eye view of Taman Negara’s enthralling flora and fauna. It is the longest canopy walkway in the world, with a length of 530 metres. More interesting will be a night jungle walk. When the lights go out, the jungle comes to life. And the night jungle walk will help you discover a different world of nocturnal plants and insects. A must do is to watch out for animals, from the Observation Hide. Also, don’t hesitate to try your hands at mountain climbing. Ascend the highest peak in all of Peninsular Malaysia, from the base of Kuala Tahan. Take on the challenge of the steep slopes and tricky rivers on this exhilarating trek, and you will be rewarded with the most spectacular views from the summit. If you love to watch wildlife roaming freely in its abode, lie in a wait hidden up in trees and you will get

a glimpse of tapirs, bears, or elephants. These observation hides are built overlooking saltlicks, which these animals visit to get the minerals they need. At the Bumbun Tahan Hide in Kuala Tahan, you will get a chance to spot wild boars and barking deer. Hence, a must do! Taman Negara is also a bird-watchers’ paradise. Out of the 650 species of bird species found in Malaysia, nearly 350 of them can be spotted, here. Nature trail is the best way to spot the birds, which include Pied Hornbills, Drongos, Malkohas and Babblers. What awaits you next is the water world, where you could have enough of rapids shooting and kayaking experience. The crystal clear Tahan River offers the perfect spots for kayaking, or bamboo rafting. You can go for a laid-back picnic, or swim around gushing waterfalls such as Lata Berkoh. For rapids shooting, head to the Tembeling River, which offers seven distinct sections of white water rapids, for you to relish that adrenaline rush.

MALAYSIA

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It is also worth taking a boat cruise to Lata Berkoh. Sail along Sungai Tahan for a journey of amazing nature sights, and stop over at Lata Berkoh, for a dip into the natural jacuzzi. At the Fish Sanctuary, you can snorkel among freshwater fish and feed them too. You will also surely love fishing in the waters of Taman Negara. Most professional anglers fish in the deeps of Taman Negara, and one of the most popular spots is Kuala Perkai. Fishing in Tahan River is permitted only on a catch and release basis. If you want to cook and savour your catch, you can fish at Kuala Perkai, below Keniam Kecil. Your water experience won’t be complete, if you miss Four Steps Waterfall, a captivating local cascade. It is one of the tributaries of the Ulu Tahan that plunges spectacularly down the mountainside, forming the Four Steps Waterfall. The eastern flanks of Gunung Tahan and Gunung Gedong drop off sharply into the headwaters of Sungai Tahan and offer you some magnificent waterfall vistas. Some of the places you must visit in Taman Negara are Bukit Teresek, Gua Telinga and Lata Berkoh. Gua Telinga, is where you can go

cave crawling through the dark, get wet as you squeeze through an underground river tunnel and catch the sight of some rare animal species. What is unique about Gua Telinga is the rock formation found here, which is shaped like a human ear. A visit to Bukit Teresek will really be a rare experience. Climb up this enchanting area, to enjoy superb views of lowlands, hills, mountains, rivers, and grey-leafed Seraya trees in Gunung Perlis and Gua Besar, Keniam. On a clear day, from here you can see Gunung Tahan, the highest peak in Peninsular Malaysia.

One of the best places to visit, Lata Berkoh is a spectacular cascade with deep pools below. The water is very cold and it is better not to swim here. You can, however, try the natural jacuzzi located a little far off. Don’t call off your trip to Taman Negara, without enjoying a simple life with the friendly and gentle Orang Asli tribe, who still live the nomadic way. What you have to do is to just head to Orang Asli Aboriginal Settlement. Getting there: By Train: Travel by rail from Kuala Lumpur, Singapore or Kota Bharu (via Tumpat) to Tembeling Halt.

From here, after a 30-minute drive you can reach the Kuala Tembeling Jetty. Then, take a boat. By Bus/Taxi: Shuttle buses depart daily from Crowne Plaza Mutiara, Kuala Lumpur at 9.00 am. It’s a three-hour journey to Kuala Tembeling Jetty, from where you take a boat. Alternatively, you can take a taxi from Pekeliling Bus Terminal or hire a selfdrive car to Kuala Tahan, the gateway to Taman Negara. By Boat: From Kuala Tembeling Jetty, you can travel to Kuala Tahan by motorised traditional wooden boat. It’s a 2.5-hour journey.

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GUEST COLUMN

The Green Effect

“

Why a trip to a hill station, or in that matter, a considerable amount of time with nature, leaves you energised and revitalised? M S Dinesh Kurup finds out

ey, Dinesh! I hope you are available next week in the office,” greeted my colleague, as soon as I stepped into my office. “Why, what for?” I was curious. “Yaar, I want to get rid of the polluted atmosphere of this city life for a few days, you know,” he replied with a smile. “So…?” I was still anxious. “So, we have decided to have a trip to Munnar, for a full one week. We want

ASIAN TRAVELLER | SEPTEMBER 2012

GUEST COLUMN to recharge our system in the fresh and rejuvenating atmosphere of Munnar.” With the advent of the industrial revolution and the subsequent indoor and outdoor air pollution, fresh air has become a more valued commodity, today. Not only Munnar (a hill station in the Idukki district of Kerala. It is part of the Western Ghats, a UNESCO Natural Heritage Site) has the rejuvenating capacity. Any hill station or natural place full of trees, where fresh air is available in abundance, can rejuvenate your body and mind. Do you know why? It is the negatively charged ions that play a major role for the refreshing atmosphere. In our school days, we have studied in basic chemistry about anion. Negatively charged ions are nothing but anions. You may ask how a negatively charged ion can give a positive effect to us. An excellent article on fresh air was penned some years ago by Dr. Bernell Baldwin. In the book titled ‘Why is Fresh Air Fresh?’ Baldwin points out that fresh air is chemically different from the recirculated indoor air that most people breathe. High quality fresh air is actually electrified. The life-giving oxygen molecule

is negatively charged, or ‘negatively ionised’. This negatively charged oxygen gives rise to a number of benefits. “Negative ions increase the flow of oxygen to the brain, resulting in higher alertness, decreased drowsiness and more mental energy,” says, Pierce J Howard, author of The Owners Manual for the Brain: Everyday applications from Mind-Brain Research, and Managing Director of Research and Development at the Centre of Applied Cognitive Studies, Charlotte NC, USA. They also may protect against germs in the air, resulting in decreased irritation, due to inhaling various particles that make you sneeze, cough, or cause a throat irritation. Other benefits of negative ions include: Recovery from physical exhaustion, or fatigue - by increasing oxygen levels in the blood and facilitating more efficient oxygen utilisation, negative ions help accelerate recovery from fatigue; by promoting abundant oxygen levels in the blood, negative ions help normalise brain function, resulting in relaxation and calmness; by increasing the levels of calcium and sodium in the blood stream, negative ions help restore a healthy

ASIAN TRAVELLER | SEPTEMBER 2012

(slightly alkaline) PH balance in the blood; by stimulating the exchange of electronic substances in cell walls, negative ions help increase metabolism; high levels of negative ions promote production of globulin in the blood, resulting in stronger resistance to illness; negative ions can calm and relax taut nerves, by balancing the opposing sympathetic and parasympathetic branches of the autonomic nervous system; and by counteracting over-arousal of the sympathetic nervous system, negative ions help ease tension in the stomach and intestines, promoting the production of digestive enzymes and enhancing digestion. Cell rejuvenation - negative ions help revitalise cell metabolism, enhancing the vitality of muscle tissue and strengthening internal organs. Overall health - negative ions can rejuvenate and revitalise all the body systems and cells, promoting a stronger overall constitution. Counteract the effects of smoking - high levels of negative ions neutralise the effect that tobacco smoke has on the cilia. Cilia are the microscopic hairs located in the trachea that move rapidly back and forth to prevent pollutants and toxins from travelling into the vulnerable

areas of the respiratory tract. The faster the cilia move, the more effective they are. However, tobacco smoke slows down the ciliary beat, diminishing the body’s ability to keep cancer-causing pollutants from entering the depths of the respiratory tract. Tests have shown that adding high levels of negative ions to the air accelerates the ciliary beat to normal levels. For a positive attitude - positive ions, which are found in abundance in most indoor environments, cause an overproduction of serotonin. Serotonin is a neuro transmitter that helps the body deal with mental, emotional and physiological stress. An overproduction initially causes hyperactivity, which rapidly leads to anxiety, and in some cases depression. Negative ion treatment has proven to be successful in reducing the overproduction of serotonin, and therefore successful in alleviating depression in some cases (Kreuger, 1957). So, what for are you waiting, guys? Leave behind your busy schedules for a few days and take a tour for negative ion treatment at nature’s abode. (The author is the Deputy General Manager of NTPC Ltd., Kayamkulam, Kerala)

ASSAM TRAVELLER

Photo: wildplacesofindia.com

The wild side

The rustic charm that the landscape of Assam offers is nothing but a cover that hides an awe-inspiring wild world, writes Arya Anil

ant to sight wild animals roaming freely in the green covers that are hardly unspoilt by human beings? If you are in India, Assam is the place for you. With as many as five national parks and around half a dozen other wildlife sanctuaries, which state in India can suit the offerings of Assam, its north-eastern state? Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s more, the state is also famed for its natural beauty! Assam has something special for the green and wildlife lovers - mesmerising grasslands, seemingly endless paddy fields, scenic blue mountains, elegant tea estates and a wealth of rarest and nearextinct species of wildlife. It is where you can spend some valuable time with golden langurs, hoolock gibbons, tigers, clouded leopards, deers, and a flock of resident and migratory birds. To start your unique

Assam experience, it is better to visit the best and the oldest national park in the state, the Kaziranga National Park. It spreads around 430 square kilometres and lies along the mighty Brahmaputra River. The park, known for the great one-horned rhinoceros, is also home to elephants, Indian bison, swamp deers, hog deers, cormorants, egret, fishing eagles, etc. The tall elephant grass and rugged reeds that dot the park hide many a wonderful wealth of animals and birds. During winter, Kaziranga attracts a large a number of migratory birds. Once you have seen enough of rhinos and other wild attractions at Kaziranga, move on to the Manas National Park, where the majestic tigers will take you to an entirely different planet. This national park is unique and is never short of distinctions - it is

a UNESCO Natural World Heritage Site, a Project Tiger Reserve, a Wildlife Sanctuary, an Elephant Reserve and a Biosphere Reserve, all at a time. Located near on Barpeta

Road, this park is where, among other animals, you can sight Assam roofed turtle, hispid hare, golden langur and pygmy hog. The imposing backdrop of the

Photo: team-bhp.com

ASIAN TRAVELLER | SEPTEMBER 2012

ASSAM TRAVELLER

Photo: placeforholidays.com

beautiful Himalayas and the rare wealth of wildlife are sure to give you an enthralling experience. Look up for the very special and rare golden langurs in the tall trees which spread across almost 360 kilometres. Come winter and itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the best time to spot migratory birds such as forktails, cormorants and ruddy shelduck. Taking a nature trail will be worth, as itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the best way to enjoy the scenic beauty of the nature and sight the wildlife in the park. If you are on a mission to explore all the national

Photo: cdn8.wn.com

parks of Assam, you can head to the Orang National Park, next. Covering an area of 78.81 square kilometres and districts of Darrang and Sonitpur, Orang National Park is a miniature Kaziranga, and is situated on the north bank of river Brahmaputra. Marshes, streams and grasslands mark the landscape of the park. Here, you can enjoy nice company of the one-horned rhinoceros, elephants, tigers, sambars, barking deers, pangolins, hog deers, civet cats, otters, and wild boars, etc. While you roam around,

of more than 2000 migratory birds. And hence a paradise for the bird-watchers! Here, you can a take an elephant safari to explore the wildlife. And, if you do not prefer it, you can opt for a jeep safari. The Haduk hanging bridge and Garanga Beel, a small pond, are a must watch, here. The sanctuary not only gives you an opportunity to encounter rhinoceros, but it also takes you to the rhino breeding programme, if you are interested. The park, which lies in between the Brahmaputra and the Kalang rivers, is named after Princess Pobitora, daughter of the King Mayong of the Mayong Kingdom. Dibru-Saikhowa National Park is the fifth (not in any order) national park of Assam. Situated near Tinsukia, this park is you can also spot birds bounded by Brahmaputra, such as pelican, cormorant, greylag goose, large whistling and Lohit and Dibru rivers. The park is home to the teal, greater adjutant stork, king fisher and king vulture, largest salix swap forest in North-East India. Wet who have made this park evergreen forests, canebrakes their habitat. Another major and grasslands cover the attraction for bird-watchers park, which spreads around is Bengal florican, an an area of 350 square engendered species. Around 30 kilometres east kilometres. The shades of colour, texture of jungle and of Guwahati in Marigaon the pattern of landscape district lies the Pobitora of the park are sure to Wildlife Sanctuary, where capture the attention of a you can once again sight more one-horned rhinoceros, photographer in you. Take barking deers, wild boars, etc. a boat ride in the river that runs through the dense forest What is more interesting in this sanctuary is the presence and it will be like visiting a dreamland painted by an artist. The park is inhabited by 35 species of mammals, 502 species of birds, 104 species of fishes, 43 species of reptiles and 105 species of butterflies. It is also home to 680 species of plants. The wonders of nature that Assam holds do not end here. There are more number of parks and more and more varieties of birds and animals waiting for you in the shades Photo: team-bhp.com of green.

ASIAN TRAVELLER | SEPTEMBER 2012

GUJARAT TRAVELLER

isiting the Dangs is the best way to see the other side of vibrant Gujarat. Don’t jump to conclusions. It is as vibrant as other parts of this western state of India. This district is different in the sense that it offers an entirely different atmosphere from the ones you will come across in its famed cities like Ahmedabad, Vadodara, Rajkot, etc., which are also famed for a number of tourist attractions. It is one of the least populated areas in Gujarat and hence tranquillity reigns supreme. Hidden in the forest area of the Sahyadri ranges, the Dangs is both wonderful and precious, at the same time. I see that surprise on your face and I know that the Dangs may sound very unfamiliar to most of the travel enthusiasts out there. And, that itself is one of the major plus points of the Dangs. It is untouched. Inhabited largely by the tribes, it is where you can come face to face with the Bhils, Kunbis, Gamits and Warlis. Feels quite interesting, huh? There are two ways to get to the Dangs from Mumbai, by road. You can either take the route via Nashik or the one via Vapi. The route via Nashik provides excellent view of the vineyards and the Ghats,

Photo: Master purav

Vibrant Greens Smitha R takes a journey to the Dangs, exploring its hill station, waterfalls, wildlife sanctuaries and other hidden treasures and the roads are perfect too. What await you at the Dangs are the breathtaking views of the surrounding villages, waterfalls and wildlife sanctuaries. A canopy of trees, green hills, warbling birds, and crystal-clear water of the Gira Falls and numerous other waterfalls create a perfect

Photo: holidayiq.com

setting for you to unwind, enjoying every moment of being with nature. Saputara, located at an altitude of 1000 metres, is the major tourist attraction, here. And it offers nothing less than the feel of a real hill station. The addition of Sarpaganga River adds more charm to this hill station. The word Saputara

means ‘abode of serpents’ and you can see an idol of a snake, which is said to be worshipped by its tribal flock, on the banks of the river. As Saputara offers a spectacular view of sunrise and sunset, a trip to this picturesque hill station would remain incomplete, if you miss them. Plan in advance

Photo: binoygupta.com

ASIAN TRAVELLER | SEPTEMBER 2012

GUJARAT TRAVELLER

Photo: Mayur.thakare at en.wikipedia

and make sure that you are in time for the sunrise and don’t leave, until the sun hides behind the mountain ranges. The sunrise point is a beautiful spot and offers magnificent view of entire Saputara. Also, worth trying is the ropeway journey to the sunset point. You can’t also miss the artificial lake, here. You can take a boat ride and revel in the waters, enjoying the panoramic views the surrounding areas offer. Known as Saputara Lake, it is

situated about two kilometres away from the hill station. Both peddle and row boats are available here. If your group has children, there is a park nearby, where they can indulge in their own world. Other attractions that will grab your attention include a rose garden, a step garden, an artist village (where you can shop for tourist souvenirs) and tribal settlements. For those who love soothing waterfalls, the Dangs has Gira Falls, which is best to be visited from

ASIAN TRAVELLER | SEPTEMBER 2012

Photo: theblueberrytrails.files.wordpress.com

June to November. From Saputara, you have to travel about 52 kilometres to reach the waterfall spot. The area is known for rare and indigenous vegetation. If you are a trekking enthusiast, then you won’t be short of opportunities. The Dangs is also a place where you can sight animals such as tigers, chital, bears, pigs and deers. Don’t think that these are the only varieties of wildlife you can spot here. The forest is also home to cobras, pythons and

such venomous lot. If you are more interested in spending your time with wild animals, head to Purna Sanctuary, situated about 60 kilometres north of the Dangs. The Vansda National Park, which covers an area of 24 square kilometres, is also a place for the wildlife lovers. Here, you can spot tigers, leopards, pangolins, rusty-spotted cats, pythons, giant squirrels, fourhorned antelopes, etc.To visit both the parks, you need to get prior permission from the authorities.

TAMIL NADU TRAVELLER

A trip to Chennai will remain incomplete, if the Guindy National Park is not included in the itinerary, writes Dr S Bakthavatchalam

Photo: Thamizhpparithi Maari

THRILL OUT!

Photo: search.wn.com

ndowed with beautiful forests, scrub lands, lakes and streams, and rich flora and fauna, Guindy National Park is one of the key attractions for the people visiting Chennai, the capital city of south Indian state of Tamil Nadu. An incredible picnic spot for family and friends, Guindy National Park is the eighth smallest national park of the country. The park is an extension of the grounds surrounding Raj Bhavan, which was earlier known as the ‘Guindy Lodge’ (and hence the name), the official residence of the Governor of Tamil Nadu. One of the major attractions of the park, which extends deep inside the governor’s estate, is the lake named Tangal Eri.

Interestingly, the present day Guindy Park was actually an evergreen forest of the Coromandel Coast. It was originally a game reserve. However, in the early 1670, Governor William Langhorne built a residence here called Guindy Lodge and a garden to beautify its surroundings. Later, the government purchased the remaining forest area from its owner, a British citizen named Gilbert Rodericks. Spread across an area of around three square kilometres, the park is popularly known as the green lungs of Chennai, thanks to the rich flora found here. The park is protected by a wall that stretches for around 10 kilometres. You can find an

ASIAN TRAVELLER | SEPTEMBER 2012

TAMIL NADU TRAVELLER extensive network of roads and trails, here. Roads, in fact, cover an area of 14 kilometres of the park. In addition to two ponds, there are two large tanks - Kathan Kollai (KK Tank) and Appalam Kolam (AK Tank) - in the park. The rich flora of the park include dry evergreen scrub and thorn forest, grasslands and water bodies with over 350 species of plants, including shrubs, climbers, herbs and grasses. You can also find over 24 varieties of trees, including the Sugarapple, Atlantia monophylla, Wood-apple, and Neem. This national park is also an ideal habitat for over 150 species of birds. About one-sixth of the park still remains as open grassland, and it is the habitat of blackbucks. The park is home to about 400 blackbucks, 2,000 spotted deers, 24 jackals and a wide variety of snakes, geckos and tortoises. You can also sight elephants, antelopes, toddy cats and jungle cats, here. Another attraction that awaits you here is over 60 species of butterflies and spiders. For bird-watchers, the park is a great place to sight birds like King Fisher, Goldenbacked Woodpecker, Blue Jay, Yellow-wattled Lapwing, Crow Pheasant, Red-wattled Lapwing, Blue-faced Malkoha, Koels, Shrikes, Doves, Munias, Minivets, Gray Partridge, Parakeets, Tailor Birds, Drongos, Robins, Quails, Flycatcher, Stone Curlew, etc. It is also home to a large number of migratory birds. Taking a nature trail is the best way to enjoy the park’s rich flora and fauna. Since the

Photo: skyscrapercity.com

park has decent roads and trail paths, nothing stands on your way to interrupt a relaxed and enjoyable walk through it, sighting birds, butterflies, animals and reptiles, and experiencing the bio-diversity it offers. The Guindy Park, which attracts more than seven lakh visitors every year, has a snake park and a children’s park adjacent to it. The snake park has deadly King Cobra, Vipers, Python and other reptiles. The children’s park was set up with the idea of providing them a natural environment, and to educate them about animals and create awareness on the importance of conserving wildlife. At

the park, children can have a great time with blackbuck, sambar, bonnet monkey, common langur, hyena, spotted deer, porcupine, jackal, python, grey pelican, night heron, cormorant, cockatiel, mongoose, etc. The national park, at times, turns into a venue for nature camps, where school students are taken on a guided tour to show them the bio-diversity of the park. There is also a new interpretation centre, if you are interested to know in detail about the bio-diversity found in the park. The Guindy Park is about eight kilometres from the Chennai Airport, 12 kilometres from the Chennai central railway station and nine kilometres away from Egmore railway station. The nearest railway station is the Kasturba Nagar MRTS station and it is located less than a kilometre away from the park.

ASIAN TRAVELLER | SEPTEMBER 2012

Incredible India

Innovative spirit behind World’s First Ayureda Resort

Baby Mathew Chairman and MD

RELAXING UNDER THE EFFECTS OF SOMATHEERAM AYURVEDA GROUP RESORTS, ONE REALIZES WHY KERALA IS SO MYSTICAL. HERE, VARIOUS CULTURES AND NATIONALITIES COME TOGETHER TO SHARE THE GLORY OF AN ANCIENT WISDOM WHICH ENSURES A HARMONIOUS BALANCE BETWEEN MAN AND BODY, MAN AND NATURE.

stablished in 1985 by Mr Baby Mathew, Somatheeram is the first Ayurveda Resort in the world. A divine experience awaits you at this Ayurveda Resort, the best place to get some peace and quiet, enjoy the scenery, feel the sea breeze, take a long walk, get a good tan, make sand castles and in general, be happy. Somatheeram Ayurveda Group’s contributions to the Indian Wellness and Health Tourism Sector run deep and varied. Based on inherent talent

and innovative spirit Mr Baby Mathew’s inspiration is charged by an extraordinary combination of precision and creativity. Mr Baby Mathew imparted valuable information about the science of Ayurveda to the world through the concept of ‘Ayurveda Resort.’ It worked wonders in the field of Indian Tourism Industry. Somatheeram Ayurveda Group has been aptly named, “The Ayurveda People.” Ever since Somatheeram Ayurveda Group opened its doors for tourists in 1985, it has been amassing numerous national and international awards for representing a unique harmony of Kerala’s spectacular heritage and ancient wisdom. It won the “Best Approved and Classified Ayurveda Center in Kerala 2010-11” Instituted by the Ministry of Tourism, Government of Kerala, the distinguished award was presented in consideration of its genuine efforts in terms of quality and standard tourism service in their Ayurveda Centers and hospitals that have made excellent contributions to the development of tourism in India. International Quality Award 2010, the Ayurveda Centre Europe Certificate 2011 and many more… It has, in effect, catapulted God’s Own Country Kerala, to a prominent spot in world tourism map. For more information

“Where the World stops for Revitalizing respite

”

somatheeram Ayurveda Group Resorts and holidaying options are established all along the coast of kerala.

 Somatheeram Ayurveda Resort (Chowara beach, Thiruvananthapuram)

 Soma Manaltheeram Ayurveda Beach Village (Chowara beach, Thiruvananthapuram)

 Soma Palm Shore

(Kovalam beach, Light house road)

 Soma Kerala Palace Lake Resort (Chembu, Kochi-Kumarakom Road)

 Soma Birds Lagoon Resort

(Near famous bird sanctuary Thattekkadu, Kochi)

 Soma Houseboats

(Near finishing point Alappuzha)

Email: mail@soma.in, mail@somatheeram.in, Web: www.soma.in, www.somatheeram.in Telephone: +91 471 2268101, +91 471 2266111 ASIAN TRAVELLER | SEPTEMBER 2012 1 Address: Somatheeram Ayurveda Group, Chowara P.O, South of Kovalam, Trivandrum, Kerala, India, P I N 695 501.

KARNATAKA TRAVELLER

Naked Nature A trip to Thirthahalli offers nothing less than a refreshing holiday experience in the lap of Mother Nature, writes Krishnadas P

Photo: 3.bp.blogspot.com

ith monsoon season nearing its end and winter season about to kick off, opting for a holiday in a hill station will be worth an experience. And in a country like India, there won’t be any difficulty in finding a greenish place full of hills, rushing streams, gushing waterfalls, and abundant flora and fauna. One such destination is Thirthahalli in Shimoga, Karnataka. This picturesque tourist spot in the southern part of the country, about 330 kilometres away from the blinding haze and deafening sounds of Bengaluru, is a

refreshing refuge for the this incident. They say, since one in search of a tranquil bloodstains were completely atmosphere. removed at this place, it was Thirthahalli is also a holy place for the Hindus and they believe that a dip in the river Tunga will cure one of all sins. There is an interesting legend associated with this belief. It is said that sage Parashurama could completely remove the bloodstain on his axe, with which he chopped off the head of his mother Renukadevi as instructed by his father sage Jamadagni, only after dipping it in the river Tunga. Some connect the Photo: indiatravelblog.net name of the destination with

named Thirthahalli (‘thirtha’ means ‘holy water’ and ‘halli’ means ‘village’).

ASIAN TRAVELLER | SEPTEMBER 2012

KARNATAKA TRAVELLER Sri Rameshwara Temple, situated on the banks of Tunga River will surely grab your attention and is a must visit. Made of stone, the temple houses a ‘Shiva Lingam’, which is believed to have been installed by the sage Parashurama. Another important temple worth paying a visit here is the Sri Lakshmi Venkataramana Temple. Situated on the banks of Tunga River, Thirthahalli is surrounded by places of historical importance and natural wonders. It also boasts a rich archaeological history, with neolithic sites uncovered at Kunda Hill near Agumbe and potholed burial chambers found at Arehalli. The Tunga Bridge, which connects Thirthahalli and Kuruvalli, is also a major tourist attraction, thanks to the arclike structure at the top of it. If your itinerary covers the entire Shimoga and nearby attractions, options are plenty to have a bustling experience of a lifetime. The best way to explore the natural beauty of Thirthahalli is hiking and trekking. The Kundadri Hills, situated nearby, is a real treat for nature lovers and those who love trekking and hiking.

Photo: HPNadig

Shrouded in the dense evergreen forests of Shimoga, Kundadri is a huge monolithic rock, which offers a good climbing experience. Standing tall at an altitude of 3,200 metres, it is a great place for trekkers, especially because of the unexplored trekking paths it offers. Be greeted by the strong winds and a huge sea of swirling clouds, stretching as far as your eyes could meet. Kundadri derived its name from the Jain monk, Kundakund Acharya, who is believed to have undertaken severe penance here. At the top of the hill, you can find

ASIAN TRAVELLER | SEPTEMBER 2012

a sacred Jain temple built in the 17th century. During ‘Makar Sankranti’ lots of Jain devotees flock to this temple. There are two lotus pools beside the temple, where lotus flowers bloom throughout the year. The pools are also a breeding ground for fishes - both large and small. To this huge monolithic rock formation, trekkers can take the KammaradiNadabur-Halakunda route, from Thirthahalli. Once atop the hill, you can enjoy a kaleidoscopic view of the rivers flowing at the foot of the hill and the distant

backwaters of the Varahi Dam. Camping at the top of the hill will be a unique experience and the facilities for the same are available near the temple. Down the hill, just 12 kilometres away from Thirthahalli, is Agumbe, where you can have a great, memorable time enjoying a number of awe-inspiring waterfalls, calm rivulets and stunning views. Surrounded by dense lush green forests and small streams, Agumbe, which lies in the Malnad region, is known as the Cherrapunji of South India, as it receives the highest rainfall in Karnataka. One can very well spend a few days here, enjoying a peaceful break from the hectic city life. This tourist spot, among other things, is where you can enjoy a spectacular sunset, in all its charm and glory. Agumbe is adjacent to one of the last surviving lowland rainforests in the Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary and the Kudremukh National Park. Home to the only permanent rainforest research station in India, it is where you can find a rich flora and fauna. The Agumbe Rainforest Research Station has a medicinal

KARNATAKA TRAVELLER

plants conservation area and plants such as Garcinia, Myristica, Litsea, Diospyros, Holigarna, Eugenia and Ficus are commonly found here. King Cobra, Yellow Ringed Krait, Lion-tailed Macaque, Cane Turtle, tiger, leopard, Indian gaur, dhole, hornbills, atlas moth, flying lizard, and countless varieties of birds and amphibians are all part of the rich fauna found here. Renowned herpetologist Romulus Whitaker has once called Agumbe the capital of King Cobra. Agumbe is also popular for its waterfalls. Barkana Falls, the 10th highest waterfall in India, is in Agumbe. At an altitude of 850 feet, this fall is a prime source of hydroelectric power in Karnataka. Jogi Gundi, situated three kilometres away from Agumbe, is a slightly different fall and is the one you can hardly give a miss. It is on the way to Barkana Falls and you have to trek a narrow and steep trail, to reach the spot. Unlike the traditional waterfall that falls from a height, or in multiple tiers, this one flows out of a cave that runs through the hill. Other major waterfalls found near Agumbe include Onake Abbi Falls, Kunchikal Falls and Koodlu Theertha Falls. 76

Just like Kundadri and Agumbe, the entire Malnad region, which covers parts of Belgaum, Shimoga, Chikkamagaluru, Uttara Kannada, Kodagu and Hassan districts, is a quiet retreat for the travellers. They can trek till they have enough of the deep forests,

plantations, undulating hills, gurgling streams, spectacular waterfalls and exotic flora and fauna experience. Other tourist attractions in and around Thirthahalli include Kuppalli, Kavaledurga, Kodachadri and Chibbalagudde. Kavaledurga, which is

Photo: HPNadig

Photo: indiatravelblog.net

about 18 kilometres west of Thirthahalli, is a village with hillocks. There is a fort with seven walls, built towards the end of the 16th century by a pious Keladi ruler Venkatappa Nayaka. Several small ponds, temples like Kashi Vishweshwara Temple and Laxminarayana Temple, and palace monuments can be found inside this fort. Kuppahalli, situated about 16 kilometres east of Thirthahalli, is a fascinating locality and is the birth place of the great poet Kuvempu. The major attraction here is Kavishaila, a rock monument made of megalithic rocks and dedicated to Kuvempu. Arranged in a circular fashion, the rocks have been placed to resemble the Stonehenge in England. Visiting this place would be worthwhile. About 16 kilometres north of Thirthahalli on Hosanagara road you can find Ambutheertha, the birth place of the river Sharavathi, which flows towards northwest and plunges into the famous Jog falls, before joining the Arabian Sea. Just two kilometres away from here, you can spot Achakanya Falls. Chibbalagudde is situated just 10 kilometres from the city. The Siddi Vinayaka Temple here is quite famous among the travellers. The list of tourist attractions in Thirthahalli seems to be endless, in the same way as no amount of time will seem sufficient to cover the tourist areas scattered in and around it. The more time you have at your disposal, the more you can be with nature, exploring its treasures. Bengaluru International Airport is the nearest airport, while the nearest railway station is at Shimoga.

ASIAN TRAVELLER | SEPTEMBER 2012

Photo: indiatravelblog.net

KERALA TRAVELLER

Explore the flying wonders Wondering where to head, to sight the winged visitors that migrate to God’s own country in winter season? Abin K I gets the details

ver meandered through forests with a binocular or camera to catch a glimpse of birds, or click a photo of them? It is an adventurous, enjoyable and exciting activity that one should give a try at least once in a lifetime. With Kerala, popularly known as God’s own country, is all set to welcome yet another birding season in October, it’s the moment for the ardent birdwatchers and those who want to get a taste of it, to spring into action. Kerala, situated on the southern part of India, is blessed with salubrious climate, vast forest cover, hills, grasslands, paddy fields, mangroves, wetlands, lagoons, lakes, backwaters, sacred groves and estuaries. All these ecosystems provide

a convenient and comfortable shelter and habitat to both migratory and resident birds. Birding tourism is an emerging trend in God’s own country. The state has great potentials and resources for further developing it, as it enjoys a diverse ecosystem, both terrestrial and aquatic, which are authentic habitats of both migratory and resident birds. It is also a form of eco-tourism, in which one travels to birding destinations in search of birds to sight, explore and experience it. Majority of the birding tourists are ornithologists and they are both wanderlust and backpackers. Major birds sighted in the state include House Sparrow, Malabar grey Hornbill, Siberian Cranes, Nilgiri Wood

Pigeon, White bellied Treepie, Malabar Parakeet, Grey headed Bulbul, Hill Myna, Peacock, Peafowl, Pigeon, Rufous Babbler, Broad-tailed Grassbird, Ceylon Frogmouth, Brahminy Kites, Greybreasted Laughingthrush, Nilgiri Flycatcher, Nilgiri Pipit, Sunbird, Whimbrels, Terek Sandpiper, Common Redshank, Curlew Sandpiper, White-bellied Blue Flycatcher, red and yellow pigeon, owl, bats, yellow bird, etc. Winter season is the arrival time of migratory birds to India in thousands, to escape the climate related problems at their homeland. Kerala has diverse terrestrial and wetland winter resorts for them and the winged visitors are slowly checking in to all of them. The arrival of birds is traditionally abrupt, especially

around the wetlands and its surroundings. Bird-watchers say that the migratory birds usually arrive during the night, following certain cues that are part of their genetic heritage. The best time to spot birds, however, is during early morning and evenings. According to P O Nameer, State Coordinator of the International Bird Conservation Network, and Associate Professor of the Kerala Agriculture University, about 152 species of migratory birds, of which about 80 species are water birds, arrive in Kerala during the winter season. They arrive mostly from Eurasia regions like Siberia, Mongolia, Kazakhstan and north of the Himalayan regions. The migratory species that normally visit the God’s own country include Godwits,

ASIAN TRAVELLER | SEPTEMBER 2012

KERALA TRAVELLER Terns, Ospreys, Golden Plovers, several species of ducks and waders like Sandpipers and Plovers. Kerala’s famous bird sanctuaries are located at Thattekkad, Kadalundi, Kumarakam, Choolannur and Mangalavanam. Besides bird sanctuaries, the state also has innumerable birding destinations in its kitty and they include Kumbala estuary, Thalankara estuary, Pakshipathalam, Valapattanam river basins, Valiyaparamba backwaters, Chamravattam, Nila, Chaliyar and Periyar river basins, Chettuva estuary, Nooranad, Thrissur-Malappuram Kole lands, Kuttanad paddy fields, Biyyan Kayal, Kuttampuzha, Velliyamkallu, Padinjarekkara and Vallikkunnu Beach, Puzhakkal, Wadakkancherry, Ollur, Irinjalakuda Kole Lands, Nedumbassery Kole Lands, Dharmadam and Pathiramanal islands, Veli, Akkulam, Peechi, Thumboormuzhy, etc. Water and shore birds are spotted across the coastal areas of the state. Major wetland destinations of Kerala, where migratory birds arrive in large numbers, are Vellayani, Ashtamudi, Sasthamcotta, Vembanad-Kuttanad belt, the charcoal fields of Thrissur, Bharathapuzha belt, Kadalundi, Kattambally in Kannur, the Kawai Kayal of

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Kasargode, Neeleshwaram, Thaikadappuram, and Nooranad, which is famed as the bird’s village. The Kadalundi estuary and bird sanctuary is located on the confluence of Kadalundi River, with the Arabian Sea in the northern Malabar Coast, and is one of the major winter escapes for shore and sea birds. Kadalundi was declared a community wetland reserve in October 2008. Nearly eight hectares of mudflats are exposed during low sea tides, and it attracts many shore and migratory birds to the wetland. About 135 species of birds are sighted in Kadalundi estuary, majority of which are migratory birds. The major one among them is the Lesser Sand Plover (LSP), which is also the most abundant of the shore bird species seen during post-monsoon

Photo: indiatravelblog.net

ASIAN TRAVELLER | SEPTEMBER 2012

season. All the three habitats - mudflats, mangroves and sand flats – have feeding grounds for LSPs. Kumarakam is another famous bird sanctuary and its large expanse of backwaters and lagoons is home to nearly 91 species of local and 50 species of migratory birds. It also has a large cover of mangrove forest, which is a feeding and breeding ground for numerous species of migratory birds. The destination you can’t give a miss is Tattekkad Bird Sanctuary, one of Asia’s best. It lies on the banks of Periyar River near Kothamangalam in Ernakulam district. It was Dr Salim Ali, who spotted and identified different types of birds, including the ones that migrate, in the region. At present, 320 varieties of birds are sighted here and among them 40 per cent are migratory birds. The birding season lasts in Tattekkad from October to March. The sanctuary has an interpretation centre, which provides information on biodiversity, ecosystems and forest trail inside the sanctuary. There is also a watch-tower inside the sanctuary, to spot the birds. Bird-watchers will also love the Nila River basin, which attracts a vast number

Photo: indiatravelblog.net

of water and migratory birds every year. The river is a source of food for several bird species, including Egrets, Storks, Terns and Sandpipers. The tidal mouth of Bharathapuzha in Ponnani is a seasonal habitat to thousands of migratory birds and attracts a large number of bird-watchers and ornithologists. If you take the ferry service from Ponnani to Chamravattom in summer (March-May), you can hardly miss the sight of lovely flocks of migratory birds. Nearly 25 varieties of birds have been identified in this zone. Birds are also spotted in areas like Cheruthuruthy, Pattambi, Kuttippuram, Ottappalam, Parali and Padinjarekkara that are located around the river. Vazhachal forest division, considered as an important hornbill habitat, is also a great spot for bird-watchers. Presence of four hornbill species – Great Hornbill, Malabar Pied Hornbill, Indian- grey Hornbill and Malabar-grey Hornbill - has been recorded here. The long stretches of coastal zones and its associated backwater and brackish water bodies are habitats of several kinds of wetland avian life. Vembanad, Ashtamudi and Periyar lakes, and Kulathoor, Purathoor, Kadalundi and 79

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Azhinjilam provide suitable habitats for several migratory species. Terns, Seagulls, Sandpipers, Plovers, Teals, etc., are some of the important avian visitors, you can find here. The stateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s wetlands are situated on the Central AsianIndian Flyway. All major wetlands, from Purathur (near Bharathapuzha estuary) in the south to Manjeswaram in the north, are hot spots for bird-watching. For instance, the Manjeswaram estuary in Kasargod is famous for shore birds and waders and you can sight Egrets, Pond Herons,

Reef Egrets, and Green and Red Shanks. Kumbala estuary provides habitat for Open bill Storks and Seagulls. Here, you can see Black/ Brown Headed Gulls, Lesser Crested Terns and Eurasian Curlews, etc. As you travel south of Kumbala, you can find Mogral Puthur estuary, where you can spot Green/ Redshanks, Little Heron, Red-wattled Lapwings, Lesser Sand Plovers, Pied and Small Blue Kingfishers, Common Sandpipers, Little Cormorants and Pond Herons, etc. Kerala even has an event entirely dedicated to the bird-

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watchers. Kerala Bird Race is an annual event started in 2007, to commemorate the birthday of the bird man of India Dr. Salim Ali. Also known as the father of Ornithology, his contribution to the subject of bird science is vast, immense and crucial. It is a one day event conducted on November 13th of every year, at three cities - Trivandrum, Kochi and Kozhikode. The event, organised by the Kerala Birder, HSBC and Yuhina Eco-Media, provides a platform for enthusiastic bird-watchers to spend an

entire day, spotting and identifying birds to record as many species as possible and create awareness on birds and its importance to human beings and eco-systems. The major challenges and threats faced by migratory birds visiting the state include diminishing forest cover, including mangrove cover, due to human encroachment or imbalance in the ecosystem; diminishing paddy fields, including wetlands; severe reduction in water level in water bodies like lakes, ponds, farms, rivers, canals, backwaters, etc; excessive waste disposal and pesticides in water bodies; and sudden variations in climate and temperature, etc. Untreated waste water from industries and plastic wastes are also deteriorating the rivers and estuaries. Conservation of ecosystems like estuaries, mudflats, mangroves, wetlands and forest and water bodies of all forms are essential to protect the avian life. Illegal sand mining in rivers, deforestation and waste disposal in water bodies should be strictly controlled. Also, more facilities and services should be provided at bird sanctuaries, in order to attract more birdwatchers and make their visit enjoyable. (The author is a faculty in Tourism, Mahatma Gandhi University, Kottayam)

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KERALA TRAVELLER

A place of contrasts T

he south of India is seldom thought of as a tourist destination, in the same way as the most northerly states. And even though a trip to Kerala will not include a visit to the Taj Mahal, it will certainly be high in colour, culture and overall chaos. Like anywhere else in India, the people of Kerala are always friendly and welcoming whether you are being served a feast on a banana leaf, or asking for directions to the nearest bus stop, you will always be met with a smile. While there will be some

Lara Keay tells why going on a Kerala adventure is not something to be missed pointing and giggling, which admittedly can be a bit bizarre on arrival, it will only be out of curiosity. Although Kerala is growing as a western tourist destination, its foreign visitors are still few and far between.

So, pale skin and fair hair is still likely to cause fascination. Like the country it sits in, the state of Kerala spans hundreds of miles and so visiting every single sight there is to see would

prove to be an ambitious task. However, the striking natural beauty of Kerala can be experienced wherever you choose to travel. The first and most common aspect of the landscape you

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KERALA TRAVELLER

are likely to experience is an overwhelming amount of coconut trees. While these exotic-looking plants epitomise the luscious Kerala landscape, the coconuts they bare are also at the heart of their culture - used for everything from cooking, to carving into animal shapes to make tourist souvenirs. One of Kerala’s true highlights is the stunning natural beauty that can be found all over the state. The backwaters are highly talked about in every tourist guide and Lonely Planet, and an overnight stay on a houseboat

is said to be ‘the thing to do in Kerala’. Whether it be a trip around the far reaching waters of Vembanad Lake, or a visit to the beautiful backwaters of Alappuzha, a houseboat trip will certainly give any visitor a real sense of what Kerala is all about. Whilst taking in the beautiful views of the sparkling lakes lined with towering coconut trees, you will also get your own personalised experience of south Indian hospitality and cuisine. Most houseboats are equipped with their own set of staff that will be perfectly willing to climb

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ashore and get any kind of food, or drink on request. The combination of the spectacular scenery and the warm smiles of the crew, who will serve you, make a houseboat stay an absolute must. Being at the far south of the country, when in Kerala you are never too far away from a beach. How touristy the surrounding area is will determine what kind of beach there is. Most beaches are regularly used by the locals, where the sea will be heavily dotted with fully clothed Indians, cooling down after a long hot day.

No wonder, a fair-skinned westerner sunbathing in a bikini will be something of a tourist attraction in itself. But others will double up as holiday resorts and therefore most sunbathing can be done uninterruptedly. A good example of this is the beautiful sandy beach at Varkala. The large cliffs that can be walked along for miles and miles and where visitors can purchase all the Indian treasures imaginable tower above the enclosed golden beaches. What is more, if the intense amount of spices in Indian cuisine is proving too 83

KERALA TRAVELLER much for the delicate western stomach, the cliff top cafes are filled with imported goods ranging from spaghetti Bolognese to chocolate brownie ice cream sundaes. Similarly at Kovalam, while the lighthouse looks onto another beautiful beach, the shores are lined with souvenir shops and seafood restaurants. In terms of food, Kerala provides a plethora of different cuisines. Whether meat eating or vegetarian, any visitor to the state will be in awe of the vast range of dishes available. The best way to experience authentic south Indian cuisine is to stay with a local family. This can be easily done when in a homestay. Freshly prepared by true experts in south Indian, the family you stay with will serve up countless plates of food that even the hungriest of travellers will struggle to finish. A standard meal will consist of a large

variety of vegetable dishes, along with a curry made with either egg, or cuts of lamb or chicken. As with all Indian meals, these dishes will be served alongside mountains of rice and towers of chapattis, or rotis. Eating out is more popular in urban areas, so if you do find yourself wanting to go out for a dinner you will not be short of choices, as

places like Trivandrum and Kochi have countless such eateries on nearly every street corner. With so many different things to do and see, it is difficult to get them all done without venturing onto public transport at some point. As depicted in films and on television, Indian road travel is no simple matter. The bustling streets of major cities in Kerala are no exception. A mixture of countless autorickshaws, cars, busses, motor and pushbikes create heavy congestion in all towns and cities. Train travel, on the other hand, is relatively stress-free (if you can master the online booking system). The trains are, in fact, a small bit of culture in itself - packed with people from all walks of life, from suited businessmen to grassroots. Overall, Kerala is a place of contrasts. While getting from A to B can be seemingly impossible when faced with the busy, congested streets of the state capital, there are just as many places in Kerala where all is quiet and peaceful and the only sound is that of the crickets chirping. While

Kerala continues to be the most educated state in India, with a 100 per cent literacy rate, and has impressive industrial enterprises such as those in Technopark, unfortunately poverty does still exist. Nonetheless, it all makes for an undeniably exciting and diverse trip. Rich in culture and with a beautiful backdrop, going on a Kerala adventure is not something to be missed. (The author is a British national, pursuing BA English and French at the University of Southampton. She visited Kerala to complete a journalism internship with the company Global Volunteer Projects.)

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KERALA TRAVELLER

Photo: upload.wikimedia.org

Nila:

Not just a river Abin K I delves into the rich cultural heritage, and historical importance of the second longest river in Kerala

here is no dearth of tourist hotspots in Kerala. A visitor to this southern part of India, be it a domestic or foreign traveller, will only be spoilt for choice, seeing the number of locations and the diversity each offers. However, like any region, this lush green tropical state too has some destinations, where you can

dig deep into its culture, history and heritage. A visit to such destinations will surely transport you to the past, offering a rarest of rare experience of your life. Such is the sort of experience Bharathapuzha, popularly known as Nila, holds for you! It is not just one among Kerala’s numerous rivers. It is a river with rich cultural

and historical influence. A notable civilization existed on the banks of this river in the past. Nila originates from the Aanamalai Hills of Western Ghats in Tamil Nadu and is the second longest perennial river flowing through the middle of God’s own country. It has a length of 209 kilometres. The influence of this river basin is

notable and significant as far as Kerala’s culture, heritage and history are concerned. Nila flows through Palakkad, Thrissur and Malappuram districts and finally merges into the Arabian Sea, at Ponnani harbour. The river has more than 20 tributaries and spreads along Mannarkkad, Chittur, Ottappalam, Thalappally, Chavakkaad,

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KERALA TRAVELLER

Photo: suni7arts.blogspot.in

Perinthalmanna, Tirur and Ponnani taluks. Train journey is the best way to enjoy the beauty of the river. It is a pleasant, unique and unforgettable experience, because the river can be viewed to the maximum length during the journey. Each railway station on its banks has a history connected with the river. It was the British, who laid the current railway tracks parallel to the course of the river - from Parli via Shoranur to Tirunavaya. The sight of the river from Shoranur and Thootha railway bridges is fascinating. The river can be explored in a better way, during the journey from Palakkad to Tirur. One can also enjoy a spectacular sunset from different areas of the river. Nila has a rich and distinct cultural heritage of its own. Its basin has given birth to so many laureates in the field of

Ayurveda Samajam is located at Cheruthuruthy, on its banks. Tiruvilwamala, the abode of Vilwadrinatha, an avatar of Lord Vishnu, is just a stone’s throw away from Lakkidi, which also happens to be the birth place of Kunjan Nambiar, the founder of ‘Ottamthullal’. Famed writers like M T Vasudevan Nair, M Govindan, VKN, O V Vijayan and M Sukumaran are said to have drawn literary Photo: upload.wikimedia.org inspiration from the enormous scenic natural beauty of Nila and its surrounding areas. One of the major attractions you can find on the banks of Nila is Kerala Kalamandalam. Established by the renowned poet Vallathol Narayana Menon at Cheruthuruthy near Shoranur, it is famed for learning traditional classical art forms like Kathakali, Koodiyattam, Ottamthullal, and Mohiniyattam. Kerala Kalamandalam started imparting training in Kathakali from 1927 onwards. The fine arts, literature and poetry. residence of the poet has In Chittur, Nila is better been restored as a museum known as ‘Sokanasini’ and it Vallathol Museum. It is located was Thunjathu Ramanujan close to the Kalamandalam. Ezhuthachan, the father of Presently, Kerala Malayalam language, who Kalamandalam holds the named it so. The authentic status of a deemed university. and traditional ayurvedic A number of big and treatment centre of Keraleeya small temples and sacred

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groves could be seen on the banks of Nila. Famed Hindu pilgrim centres like Navamukunda Temple, Thirunavaya; Sree Rama Temple and Punarjani Cave, Thiruvilwamala; Ayyappa Temple, Chamravattam; and Kadambuzha Temple and Sree Varahamoorthy Temple, Panniyur, etc., are situated on its banks. There is a belief that those who are cremated on the banks of Nila achieve salvation. It is also one of the important rivers in the state where people (sons) pay homage to their late ancestors, by performing Pithru Tharpanam ritual, on ‘Karkidaka Vavu’ day. Aivarmadom, the funeral place of Hindus, too is situated on the banks of Nila near Thiruvilwamala. You can find some popular rural tourism destinations on its banks. Cheruthuruthy is one such spot. A visit to this place will give an insight into the rural and cultural heritage of central Kerala. Cherpulassery, Chitoor, Panjal, Desamangalam, Chamravattom, Mayannur, Trithala, Ottappalam, Parli, Chelakkara, Karakkad, Pattambi, Pallippuram and Kuttippuram, all situated on its banks, are ideal

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KERALA TRAVELLER

Photo: hoparoundindia.com

destinations to explore God’s own country’s rustic charm. Trithala, the seat of Koottanad Kings, is a renowned heritage site, while Chamravattom is the cultural centre of Malappuram district. Tirthala is also famed for its Siva Temple, while Chamravattom is home to a temple dedicated to Lord Ayyappa, which is situated 100 metres inward the river. Innumerable pilgrims visit this Ayyappa temple during ‘Mandala Kalam’. The banks of Nila were once a venue for Mamankam festival, which was known for great trade fairs. This 28-day festival, which was held at Tirunavaya once in 12 years from the time of Kulasekharas, was known for bloody battles during the time of Zamorin of Kozhikode. The areas around Navamukunda Temple at Tirunavaya are noted for the remains of Mamankam battles.

While Mamankam is hardly held any longer, a major festival that is still happening is Ratholsavam. The venue of the festival, which is held in every November, is Kalpathy Viswanatha Temple. The temple is situated on the banks of Kalpathy River, one of the tributaries of Bharathapuzha. Nila festival held at Kerala Kalamandalam in every March, and the Pooram festival held at Cheruthuruthy, Panjal and Mayannur temples are the other colourful festivals that

one can today enjoy on the banks of Nila. Nila has tremendous potential and scope for developing diverse, yet authentic forms of tourism. Several towns, cities and villages situated on its banks have great tourism value and importance. Lighthouse in Ponnani is a tourist attraction situated close to the southern banks of Nila. Malampuzha Dam, the biggest one constructed across Nila, is also a popular tourist destination. The river drains into the Arabian Sea near Ponnani and the estuary formed there is enchanting. Kavalappara Palace is a heritage tourist attraction located on its banks. Places like Trithala, Kalpathy, Kudallur, Chittoor, etc., are famous for archaeological remains and excavations. The list goes on. Nila and its banks are also ideal for eco-tourism activities. A ride in a canoe, fishing and swimming are all possible here. Padinjarekkara Beach, situated on the confluence of Nila, Tirur Puzha and Arabian Sea, is an emerging eco-tourism spot. Manjadi Kadavu, where you can spot an acacia grove in the centre of the river, is a unique attraction. A large number of small islets can be sighted in different parts of the river, covered with traditional grasslands known as ‘chenkole’. The river and its banks also provide habitat for diverse flora and fauna.

Photo: blog.sramana.in

Nila attracts a large number of water, shore and migratory birds, normally between September and April. The tidal mouth of Bharathapuzha at Ponnani is a seasonal home to hundreds of migratory birds. Peacocks are sighted in different areas of the river banks in Palakkad district. The river is also a source of food for many birds, including Egrets, Storks, Terns and Sandpipers. Nearly 25 varieties of birds have been identified from this zone. Agriculture is the main stay of the community residing on the banks of the river. Nila is also a hub of irrigation projects in the state. Paddy, plantain, vegetables, coconut, jack fruit and mango are the main cultivation in the area. It provides an opportunity for developing farm based tourism. Realising the great tourism potential it holds, Kerala has initiated works on creating Nila Heritage Tourism Circuit (NHTC). The circuit will link popular and virgin tourism destinations, villages, cultural attractions and heritage centres situated around the river banks. The government also should do the needful to check activities such as illegal sand mining, which has affected the natural flow of the water. The best time to visit the river is July to September. In summer, the river turns into a sort of desert. Nila is definitely eligible for a heritage status, because of its influence, importance and the pivotal role played in shaping the cultural heritage of God’s own country. A sustainable development approach should be taken by the authorities to preserve Nila. The ongoing tourism circuit project can definitely be used as a tool to conserve the river. (The author is a faculty in Tourism, MG University, Kottayam)

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HOSPITALITY

Photo: gulfhotelbahrain.com

The art of service How important is it for hotels to focus on guest services, to be in business and make a name in the sector? And, how can hotels excel in it? Rajneesh Kumar takes a look

he hotel world has long regarded Indian service and hospitality to be the finest on the planet. I too agree. For years, ‘firang’ hoteliers have been enviously watching the sub continent hotel companies master the art of exceptional service - the art of being always at hand without being obtrusive, and the ability to be service focused without being subservient. In this regard, 90

I was, and still am in awe of some of my colleagues and competitor hotels in the country. But, over the last few years a shift in guest expectation is happening. The guests are changing and the execution of service that these new guests want is not moving with this shift. Hotels need to understand why guests opt for them and truly ask what they need, to be successful in delivering the

desired result. Not all guests are here to see the Taj Mahal. Hospitality sector needs to accept that. The first thing you may notice about Indian hotels, when you arrive here, is that there is comfort in numbers. They will have enough well looking staff in the lobby, not doing anything in particular, and eventually one may run into a guest and this would force an interaction. Pukka, great service! This blanket coverage is not necessarily what the guests want. I mean it is nice to get a VIP treatment at the door on arrival, but after one has been on a flight for long hours, one really just wants to get to his/her room and have a shower. I wonder if instead of having 10 people to say hello on arrival, if we could not use this money to upgrade our bandwidth and ensure it works. The service gaps in India are no more evident than in food and beverage operations. If the guests don’t like chilli they should not have to accept ‘masala’ in every dish. I literally benchmark the cooking in my hotel to that of one’s mum. My guests would not accept food quality lesser than that which they would receive at home. If your mum makes a better ‘dosa’ than a trained chef, then why on earth should you pay for one in a hotel? Hotel guests, Indian or international, use the same benchmark. If their mums make the most amazing braised corn beef

and if the chef at the hotel can’t make it as well then I say you have two choices learn or don’t bother! One technique we have employed at Marriott is that we ask our guests at every meal period to tell us, if they were writing the menu what they would put on it. We even ask them to help us road test the taste. With the success of TV shows like MasterChef, and Food Food - Health Mange More (by the way my Executive Chef Sahil Arora is the star of this show) our guests are very much in touch with the in-house chef and they actually enjoy the interaction, with him. Again, it doesn’t work on all guests but our long stay guests love it. Sometimes, hotels try to be everything to everybody and this just won’t work. A hotel cannot treat a leisure guest with the efficiency of a business traveller and vice versa. Moreover, India is no longer a once in a lifetime adventure destination. It is easily accessible and ‘firang’ friendly. The ‘this is India’ excuse no longer works with the guests. They have been here before, they have given their feedback and they are waiting for the hotels to act upon it. We have asked the world to come to us and now we need to ensure we are ready for them because guess what…they are coming. Hotels need to constantly provide an inspired and creative approach to learning in an effective way at any

Photo: thecosmogroupllc.com

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HOSPITALITY achieve the best of the guest service. I have several success secrets that helped me get to where I am today, and all of them relate to good guest service. One should work towards the guest loyalty. This is my number one guest service secret, and is by far the most important one. I was taught about Business to Guest Loyalty many, many years ago, even before I started my stint with hotels. Now, when the guest knows that s/he is welcome at your hotel, and whenever s/ he is back in town, you can count on him/her to stay in your establishment. Simply remember a few concerns that your guest shared with Photo: eldercaretampa.files.wordpress.com you the last time s/he stayed in your hotel. When you can have transformed conviviality time, to raise the standards of show concern about what their service. The art of service and comfort into an art form. matters to your guest, that Our restaurants and bars should be excellent, not only is Business to Guest Loyalty, provide the perfect setting for the guests but also for and you can bet on it, you for relaxing and socialising the internal teams. Hotels have just acquired a guest with the latest in fusion dishes need to always motivate and for life. from around the world. inspire its staff, bringing In today’s market Guest service is a very consistent and continuous environment, service has important aspect of the improvement, and create become a cliché and it seems hospitality sector. Usually, a culture of ownership, like ‘everyone is doing it’. So, guests interact with hotel teamwork, integrity and if everyone is doing it, why employees at all hours of the urgency. Hospitality sector day and night, and depend on not jump ahead of the wolf also needs to ensure the pack, by providing even more them for a variety of needs. business and commercial In most major cities, there are creative, personalised service objectives are met, while at to your guests than your literally dozens of hotels that the same time ensuring total competitors can? One size fit their needs for location, guest satisfaction. shoe does not fit all feet. Nor accommodation and budget. Courtyard by Marriott is one type of guest service It is a highly competitive Gurgaon, for instance, suitable for all your guests. sector, and to be successful provides its guests, be I repeat, be creative. Get to one has to always strive to it business or leisure travellers, delightful priceless experiences, by consistently redefining the art of guest service to exceed expectations. We passionately ensure that our valued guests gain personalised and above-theusual standard of services. We

Photo: foodshots.in

personally know your guests and recognise their individual needs. If a guest comes to you with a complaint, be very serious about how you handle it. Is the guest upset and angry? First, calm him/ her with words and action, and show that you are serious about doing something to correct the problem. Even if it is obvious that s/he is wrong, sometimes it is better for repeat business to take the loss and compensate the guest. Then, when your guest is satisfied that the complaint has been properly addressed, thank him/her for bringing the problem to your attention. Remember, no amount of advertising can repair the damage done by failing to properly address a guest’s concern. The guest who simply walks out of your hotel without saying a word will never come to you again. These silent complainers have friends. And their friends have friends. Educate your staff to be equally as concerned about your guests, as you are. The personal nature of hospitality, welcoming guests into hotels, is inherently social. Service quality is determined as the subjective comparison that guests make between their expectations about a service and the perception of the

Photo: spareviewmag.com

ASIAN TRAVELLER | SEPTEMBER 2012

HOSPITALITY way the service has been run. Hence, we, at Courtyard by Marriott Gurgaon, define the service quality in terms of five dimensions: tangibility (how well the hotel staff are dressed), reliability (ability to resolve problems encountered by guests), responsiveness (convenience of making the reservation, promptness of check-in/check-out process, hotel/tour guide information), assurance (security and safety of guests), and empathy (caring and individualised attention). Firstly, individuals who well dress suggest power and status. Therefore, the first impression is only part of creating a positive relationship between the hotel and the guests. Secondly, the staff should be competent. They should have thorough product knowledge, be it about the types of rooms and the facilities offered in the hotel. Hotel staff should

be able to handle problems - deal with complaints, or certain difficulties in the hotel, and help guests when they confront problems while their stay in the hotel. Guests’ service expectation is built on complex considerations, including their own prepurchased beliefs and other people’s opinions. Analysing your guests better will lead to

The South Kerala Hoteliers Forum (SKHF) organised an interactive session with the members of Bentota Beruwala Hoteliers’ Association (BBHA) from Sri Lanka, who visited Trivandrum with their families, at UDS, Kovalam.

experience. Understanding this is very important for the hotels and their growth. It is critical to meet the needs of future guests with intelligent and responsive technology systems that can support hotels to evolve and anticipate changing guest needs and make the most of emerging opportunities. Service management is becoming the new paradigm in the hospitality sector. Hotels offer services to fulfil the needs and experiences of Photo: hotelmanagementtutorial.com guests, through innovative concierge, or personalised a better allocation of resources services. Hospitality managers and staff, and help design a are conceptualising their more effective marketing and hospitality offerings as communication strategy and service offerings conducted pricing components, to ensure in a framework of human a proper level of service relationship. quality. A final bit of advice about Looking at the global guest service - if you are not drivers and forces of change, taking care of your guests, we can understand the your competition will! future preferences and what (The author is Food and Beverage Manager they mean for the guest with Courtyard by Marriott, Gurgaon)

Le Passage To India celebrated its 10th Foundation Day, with major corporate social activities (CSR) all across India. It was the company’s CSR arm Le Passage Travel Foundation - Shaping Lives, which led the social responsibility activities.

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Incredible India

ASIAN TRAVELLER | SEPTEMBER 2012

PROFILE

Raj Hospitality

Creators of unique brand value

aj Hospitality Management Consultant’s objective is to make hospitality business a stand-alone project in the competitive market by creating a unique brand value and enhancing business strategies in achieving the desired results. Raj Hospitality Management Consultant (RHMC) is a pioneering entrepreneurial venture in the field of Tourism and Hospitality Industry, participating directly in the business along with the owners in ensuring maximum return on investment. RHMC comprehend fully the expectations and requirements of the investor in eradicating the element of risks in their venture. RHMC’s expertise lies in ensuring market positioning for new brands as well as redefining existing brands. Its expertise further extends to

strategising operationally with and internal, and trained special emphasis on quality manpower with skill sets, standards and services as well since the business module as business needs, achieving keeps goals and priorities targeted goals, vision and aligned with RHMC’s needs mission and overall of the investors. brand value. To sum Its distinctive it up, a one stop brand portfolio is shop for providing purely consumer solutions. driven. Because RHMC links the RHMC believes a investor and the fresh and vibrant customer in analysing brand always Raja Gopaal Iyer, MD adds that much the business and its needs. Its intervention only needed fillip to the business fortifies the recovery and boosts venture. Its ethereal brands the growth of the business. are Mandara- a divine flower The core competence lies in with a distinct fragrance providing flexible options showered by heavenly bodies and solutions to business in which is relegated to threehospitality by understanding star category hotels; Kaluva- a the Investors and bridge a water lily flower with strong gap between the owner and resemblance to Lotus for the customer. four-star premium properties; RHMC’s strategy is two Zest- a transgression into the pronged- as a franchisee or spiritual odyssey ensconced as a management contract with enthusiasm & abundant provides all the end to end energy for truly amazing business solutions in terms experience of five-star of marketing, external Premium Properties; and

Semanta -gives you an insight into our cultural heritage and lets you explore for the Resort and heritage units. One of the primary goals is to make it easier for guests to book at hotel. RHMC’s reservations network integrates with popular travel web sites and portals that link to hundreds of thousands of terminals worldwide, giving travel agents and intermediaries’ real time access to its hotels through all major distribution systems and Global Distribution System web sites. RHMC has central reservation offices located around the world. RHMC’s advanced reservations improve hotel efficiency since hotels no longer need full reservations teams, owners can free more staff to handle other duties. This keeps hotel staff numbers down while owners still enjoy 24-hour reservations support.

The Somatheeram Ayurveda Group

Rejuvenate body & soul

omatheeram Ayurveda resort, the World’s First Ayurveda Resort and the flagship property of the Somatheeram Ayurveda Group founded by Baby Mathew is set in an ecstatically peaceful environment by the sea. Situated on a hillock near Chowara Beach, Somatheeram is just nine kilometers from Kovalam Beach, one of the best tourism spots in Kerala and 21 Kms from Trivandrum airport. It is spread over 15 acres of greenery all around. 94

The ayurveda treatment lodging facilities are designed centres of Somatheeram with proper ventilation to Ayurveda Group resort, allow natural air flow. It where one can avail of has 80 rooms, categorized traditional into special cottages, Indian healing standard room, garden systems, have cottages, Kerala been bestowed the Houses, the deluxe prestigious Green suites and the ordinary leaf status by Govt. rooms, built in a classy of Kerala ensuring style and all providing adherence to Baby Mathew, MD the view of the sea. authentic Ayurveda. Its restaurant provides a The lush landscape of choice of about 250 different Somatheeram Ayurveda ayurvedic vegetarian Resort makes it an eco dishes, salads and juices. friendly tourist spots. The Non vegetarian and multi

cuisine food is also available. Manaltheeram, an ayurveda beach village, and the Soma Palmshore Light House Beach, Kovalam, are the other beach resorts of the group providing ayurveda and yoga packages. Soma Kerala palace at Chempu, Soma Kuttanad at Purakkad, and Soma Birds Lagoon Thattekad, are the resorts at the backwater destinations. Soma Houseboats Alappuzha gives you an on board experience of life in the backwaters. www.somatheerm.in

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Breakout Hotels

For a premium stay

ochin based Breakout Hotels, one of the leading resort management and marketing company in South India, has premium resorts in six locations - Thekkady Wild Corridor, Mountain Club – Munnar, Punnamada resort – Allepppey, Wayanad Silver woods, The Olive – Cochin and the latest addition The Tranquil Palms – Kollam. Breakout Management Services, ever since its inception in 2007 by two young professionals - Sajan Joseph and Shijo Varghese, has entered into strategic alliances with independently owned resorts across Kerala for marketing and management of their resorts. Though their main focus is on marketing and branding, they work very closely with the managements of these resorts and implement innovative HR policies and latest concepts in guest relations. Sajan Joseph and Shijo Varghese said: “We are seeing a tremendous growth in leisure and business travellers to Kerala. To meet our expansions, we have already identified a talent bank and

few top notch professionals have already joined us in recent times. Very shortly, we will have representative offices in Europe and Middle East. Last year witnessed a growth of about 30-35 per cent in arrivals and resulted in a revenue growth of up to 45 per cent in our resorts .To meet the growing demand, we are adding 15-20 rooms in our resorts “. After the recession inbound markets have bounced back and Breakout are seeing a good growth in tourist arrivals from Germany, France, the UK and other western European markets. Another sector which has shown tremendous potential is the Arab market. Breakout are witnessing a growth of almost 40 per cent from this market. Good domestic business environment has ensured that there is an ever growing demand for their products in India. Corporate travel for conferences has been on the upward direction and this is a very good sign for things to come. This year, Breakout launched short rejuvenation packages and this is very popular within the corporate

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world. Breakout is in talks with different resorts in Tamilnadu, Karnataka and Pondichhery. Breakout is also looking forward to enter into strategic partnerships with stand alone properties. Destinations that they wish to expand are Chennai, Coimbatore,

for Kerala tourism as a whole” says Sajan and Shijo. While Thekkady Wild Corridor has blossomed into a significant brand in Kerala tourism, Mountain Club and Punnamada have carved a niche for themselves in the premium segments of tourism circuit. The company has kept pace with the latest trends in the industry, thereby ensuring that each of the resorts have a healthy business in the off season as well. By implementing new guest relation programmes and services, the “customer delight” is consistently Sajan Joseph Shijo Varghese delivered. Pondichhery, Madurai, Today the company has Bangalore, Mysore, Kovalam a network which is spread and Coorg. all over the country and Apart from the present ably supported by a team of business, foreseeing a great about 15 sales and marketing leap in the manpower professionals and associate requirements for the industry, offices. Shortly, Breakout Breakout has plans to start will have representatives in an institute, which will London and Dubai. offer short term courses www.breakouthotels.com in hospitality for general graduates. Future looks bright

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Rainbow Cruises

Lay back & explore the backwaters

ainbow Cruises is perhaps the most enchanting holiday experience of the worldit can offer you in the floating holiday, on the backwaters highway. One can enjoy the nature in its all splendor and it will surely be a memorable experience for you. Step abroad and the native oars men will take you to an amazing world of delights and tranquility. Rainbow’s feet of 25 houseboats comprises premium A/c, deluxe A/c and Non A/c houseboats, in sleek design is equipped with every luxury and safety measures. Customized comfort with a

Joly Mathew Director

Cijo Alex Director

touch of Kerala heritage flair areincredibly designed and furnished in 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. The houseboat is about 18 to 21 meters long and 5 meters wide at the middle. The hull is made of wooden planks held together by ropes of coconut fiber 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. The Rainbow Cruises traditional Kettuvallam, which has Gold Star Rating, is equipped with the stateof-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 décor. Rainbow Cruises has worked hard to ensure the highest standards and are skillfully equipped, with every safety and luxury amenities on board. www.rainbowcruises.in

the conference hall can accommodate up to 300 people in theater style. Spice routes luxury houseboat ‘cardamom’ is par with the five armelia Haven is relax and the stress melting star facilities and has where one could away. Take in the beauty of two spacious rooms. privacy and luxury, to suite breathe in plantations that Alleppey Green Bold and the aroma of herbs stretch over hectares the needs and moods of the Njallany, which are fully air and spices. It is a of land and devour tourist. conditioned and splendidly The tree-top wood cabins plantation resort, the greenery with decorated with all modern where there are all its splendor and “Erumadom” and the amenities for your complete Scaria Jose Unnikrishnan Nair specially created underground comfort and happiness. The different varities natural charm. Director GM cellar give absolute silence of spices like At a height of spacious deck has a seating and fresh air. The fully cardamom, pepper, clove, 4000 ft above sea level, the capacity of 50 for a grand equipped ayurveda centers nutmeg, ginger, cinnamon rooms at Carmelia Haven party or family get-together. regain all the vitality of your and many more. Resort are categorized into Kailasam, an exceptionally true self and completely Carmelia Haven, Thekkady cave room, suite room, beautiful property of Carmelia refresh the tourist. Kolumban, Haven offers enough avenues set in the midst of captivating deluxe cottage, honeymoon the multi-cuisine restaurant greenery is nestled right cottage and deluxe room, all for long strolls, mountain and the open restaurant serves safaris, bird watching and under the never ending blue overlooking the lush green a wide array of delicacies to expanse of sky one can feel plantation. The exotic rooms trekking. your tense muscles starting to and circular cottages provide the tourist. ‘Nattukoottam’ www.carmeliahaven.com

Carmelia Haven

A treasure trove

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Agraharam Resorts

A miniature Kerala

he beauty of the green landscape, crystalline streams, mist-clad mountains and the silent atmosphere are some of the “luxuries” that one gets at Agraharam Resorts Thirunelli. One can tickle your taste buds with the most delicious food from its multi-cuisine restaurant, looking at the ravishing beauty of hills and dales. Indeed it is a rendezvous with nature, an excellent miniature of Kerala, the God’s own country. Agraharam Resort, the Jungle resort is located at Thirunelli near Manathavady in Wayanad District. It showcases the immense diversity of Wayanad, The land of spices. Wayanad is a unique district, which lies within the ambit of the leading tourist centers of South India

like Ootty, Mysore and Coorg. The resort has 14 well appointed independent Vineeth K Nambiar cottages and Director suite rooms. The cottages are situated inside the forest, but only 85meters from the main road that separates the thick forest. The accommodation is categorized into deluxe cottages, suite cottages and twin cottage. There are ten deluxe cottages (Sauparnika, Ashokavani, Parnashala, Sreeshylam, Kamyakam, Indeevaram, Nikunjam, Chitrakoodam Panchavadi and Chaithram), two family cottages (Aranyam and Haritham) and a twin cottage (AlakaNanda). All the cottages are built

up of echo-friendly materials and the tiled roof; wooden ceiling and laterite walls give them a Malabar touch. Cottages are designed in such a way that almost all of them get a close view of either the mountains or the forest. The multi-cuisine restaurant “Naalukettu” serve vegetarian and non-vegetarian. Chinese and Continental items are also made available to “Eat, relish and be merry” is the slogan during holidays and the vegetables used in our kitchen are plucked from its farm yard

It also provide other facilities like mini conference hall for 50 persons, vihara, a recreation centre, multi court etc. The drive to the resort from Kattikkulam town (Kerala) or Kutta Town (Karnataka) is also through the forest which takes less than an hour. The most important tourist attractions like Kuruva Island, Tholpetty wildlife sanctuary, Pakshipathalam mount, Irippu waterfall, Kalindi River and Thirunelli Temple are nearby. www.agraharamresorts.com

Travancore Court

An architectural wonder

ravancore Court, with a distinctive blend of traditional and modern architecture provides quality accommodation for people seeking both business and leisure in the heart of Cochin. Located close to all major shopping and business centres in Cochin, it is just 45 minutes drive from the Cochin International Airport and five minutes away from Ernakulam junction Railway Station. This hotel is a wonderful springboard to tourist attractions of Cochin. It finely blends traditional interior styling with contemporary comforts and

celebrates the culture and banquets. It has of the land with a boardroom for antiques, furniture, exclusive meetings murals and paintings. and a business centre The Hotel comprises with cutting edge of 50 well appointed communication Luxurious rooms Suresh Sukumar, GM facilities. All standard which include13 facilities including WiDeluxe, 30 Suites, 6 Executive Fi connectivity, Travel desk, Suites and One Presidential roof top swimming pool, Suite. The suites, some of fitness centre, sauna, Jacuzzi which overlook are available in the hotel. the Arabian Sea, The East India Company, have luxurious the multi-cuisine restaurant living rooms and in Travancore court is sumptuous bedrooms. lavishly spaced and offers The presidential suite a wide relishing spread of stands apart with its Kerala, Moghlai, Chinese Jacuzzi, bar counter and exotic and continental cuisines. The decor. coffee shop, made distinctive The hotel is also an ideal by its exquisite decor serves place to conduct conferences up lip-smacking Italian and

Mediterranean fare and a rich array of desserts. At the news room, the theme-based coffee shop, one can sip on delicious coffee and bite into scrumptious snacks while flipping through newspapers and magazines or chat with friends and try out a game of cards. www.travancorecourt.com

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Sagara Beach Resort

Enjoy the sea & the stay

verlooking the Light House Beach is the classified three -star hotel, ‘Sagara Beach Resort’. It is situated near the popular beach destination of South India, the ‘Paradise of the South’ – Kovalam. It is just 14 kilometers from the International Airport at Thiruvananthapuram. The uniqueness of Sagara is the warmth hospitality and quality of services extended to the guests. The professional service extended here makes the guests return to the hotel whenever they visit Kerala. Sagara Beach Resort has 98 well appointed air conditioned rooms constructed in three blocks with twin beds, and a balcony for each room from where one can have the view of the Arabian Sea and the beautiful beach. The rooms are classified into A/c standard garden view, A/c

deluxe, palace sea view and honeymoon suits. The winter house almost adjacent to the Sagara Beach Resort and set amongst the palm groves in tropical surroundings is superior and spacious. These twin bedded rooms have window seating, cable TV, a small kitchen area with refrigerator, ensuite rooms and private balcony to the rear which is suitable for long stay. Two crystal-clear state-ofthe-art swimming pools are hygienically and perfectly

maintained. The roof-top multi-cuisine restaurant overlooking the Light House beach and the Arabian Sea refreshes the guest all day and night by serving mouthwatering delicacies of Indian, Chinese, Thai and Continental Sisupalan, MD varieties. The Ayurvedic Centre of the resort offers therapies and massages in the professional way. Qualified and experienced practitioners and masseurs render

authentic treatments here. The resort has a swimming pool. The roof top restaurant itself allures the guests by offering a wide variety of delicacies. The property has all modern facilities including internet café, telephone, CTC, mail and message handling, safe deposit locker, cloak room, doctor on call, money exchange, laundry, tour and travel assistance, airport transfer, multi-cuisine restaurant, room service, laundry, hot water, boating cultural performance etc.

one deluxe suite room for the guests. The ideal climate and above all the friendly attitude of the staffs will transform every day stay into a memorable one. The speciality restaurant ‘Biso’, serves organic cuisine for the guest. The Tamara, the all day dining offers authentic Indian and South Indian and Mediterranean Cuisine to the

tourist delight. It also offers other facilities like Wi-fi, conference room, 24 hours dining, floating restaurant, swimming pool etc. Citrus is just 105 kilometres from Trivandrum and 75 kilometres from Cochin and is well connected by train to Cochin and Trivandrum.

www.sagarabeachresort.com

Citrus Retreats

On backwaters

itrus Retreats attraction in Alleppey. The Alleppey is well Houseboat, motorboat, placed across the speedboat and leisure boat banks of the Pallathuruthy cruises are arranged by the River surrounded by lush resort for the guest to take greenery paddy. The resort home a memorable cruising is well connected through experience through the back waterways, rail, waters. road, air and is easily Citrus’s South Indian accessible to all the speciality Spa and the major parts of Kerala delightful sea food at the including Cochin lake front property give and Trivandrum a romantic touch for the C Santhosh Nair GM tourist. Citrus offers 32 International Airports are easily rooms, it includes eight reachable from Alleppey. paddy view deluxe rooms, The boat ride through four deluxe pool view, 19 the back waters is a major lake view deluxe rooms and

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www.citrushotels.com

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Surya Samudra

A mix of luxury and nature

urya Samudra Kovalam is a perfect private hideaway with a blend of style, convenience and commitment to tradition. It is located 30 miles from the tip of the subcontinent and few minutes from the historic Vizhinjam harbor. The first property in Kovalam enriches the discerning traveler an opportunity to stay and

Anju Chandrasekhar MD

experience a traditional home. ‘The Tharavadu’ a unique heritage property with 22 Tharavadu homes is spread over 22 acres of lush green topical gardens. It has all modern convenience of a contemporary luxury resort and is set up in a luxurious private

enclave of open view of the sea. Oottupura, the sea facing all day dining restaurant open around the clock and offers a combination of global cuisine, and the best of local delicacies. Kanal, the grill offers an eclectic array of evening specials, hot off the coals starts crackling to serve a succulent selection of barbecued and grilled seafood, meat and vegetables. Madira, the sea facing bar, presents view of an endless stretching Arabian Sea.One can lean back and breathe in the cool ocean scented from our select list of Beer and Wines. Spa Niraamaya offers a range of natural and holistic therapies to rejuvenate body, mind and soul. TheSpa

Niraamaya is a Green Leaf Ayurvedic Centre certified by Ministry of Tourism, Government of Kerala. The newly introduced Jetlag therapy, signature bath and scrubs and continuous innovation with our extensive spa menu make Spa Niramaya, a truly unique experience. www.suryasamudra.com

Greenwoods

Blended in nature’s sublime

ucked away in the heart of the ever charming Thekkady, Greenwoods is not just another resort that offers you only a fine stay. Situated in the gateway of the Periyar Tiger Reserve, it gives a first-hand experience of the enigmatic beauty and sublime solitude of the wilderness. The 34 well-appointed rooms that includes four suit , two pool suit, one president suit and a tree top lie in the midst of 6 acre spice plantation is well equipped with a mini bar, tea/coffee maker, satellite television, Wi-Fi, direct dialing facility etc. The rooms are divided into three categories- Aranya, Kanana and Rithika and the rooms are designed in order to let you enjoy maximum harmony with nature.

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‘Arthreya’, the Ayurvedic Bodhi conference hall is well centre offer you a magical equipped with all the facilities rejuvenating experience that to conduct official conferences assures peace for mind, body ‘Amrutham’ and ‘Naadan’, and soul. ‘Poyka’, the the restaurants swimming pool makes here serve delicious you feel like floating authentic tastes through a tranquil of North Indian, jungle lake. ‘Vanya’ Continental, Chinese the treetop house gives and the traditional you an amazingly Kerala cuisine. Live Shankar R, breathtaking view cooking demos and Business Development Manager recipes are also given of nature at its best.

by from specialist chefs every day. Activities including sightseeing and trekking are availed here. Traditional art forms are also hosted. An open rabbit park, a separate butterfly garden and a rose garden are also valued attractions here. www.greenwoods.in

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Backwater Ripples

Experience the bliss of enlivening ambience

ackwater Ripples offer sits comfortably with in the traditional Kerala lush lake side gardens that cottages for the leisure it inhabits. Built of wood and the business travellers. and furnished in the Kerala Driven by perfection the style, the addition of modern guest can enjoy a hasslecomforts and luxurious free experience at anytime touches create a welcoming in Backwater Ripples. The atmosphere. resort has 34 rooms in four Arayannam, the unique categories offering eco-friendly houseboat a spectacular view of backwater Ripples of the Vembanadu has one bedroom, with Lake. Located in 10 and attached bathroom. acres of beautifully This fully furnished landscaped boat takes you in middle ground, backwater of the lake, where the Ripples offers Mathew Alex Vallapally still night bathed in MD spellbinding moonlight can lull encounters with nature. you to sleep, while floating Relish a mind-blowing on the emerald waters of sunset on a montage of Vembanadu Lake. At the clouds, or the flying flurry of multi-cuisine restaurant evening birds, or just relax ‘Cordon Bleu ‘, one can and enjoy the cool afternoon taste ‘karimeen’ pollichathu breeze. Stroll under the (fish wrapped in banana canopy of coconut trees, leaves straight from the sipping tender coconut water pan), prawns, crabs, oysters or enjoy an afternoon nap and a variety of fresh catch on the tree lined lawns, or from the Vembanadu Lake. snap up the ever-changing The spicy chicken- ‘kozhi scenes on the backwater varutharachathu’ and the that surround you at this ‘syrian Christian duck roast’ enchanting slice of heaven. are also available at the From the traditionally cordon Bleu. crafted wooden furniture, local nature painting and ethic handicraft, to the modern gadgets, the resort harmoniously blends ancient heritage and latest technology. Traditionally built, the hotel

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Back water 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 that 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 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 well-qualified 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

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PROFILE

Lake Palace

Exclusive luxury resort on the lake

“

ake Palace” is one of the foremost Luxury Backwater resort situated in a private island on the evergreen banks of Vembanadu Lake in Alleppey, one of the must see 100 destinations around the World courtesy the “National Geography Channel”. The resort gives the true ambience of the vast lake with its wide exposure to the waters. Alleppey is also known as the “Venice of the East” for its inland waterways. Lake Palace gives an excellent combination of modern and traditional

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Kerala architecture and curtains, spacious private is spread over 50 acres of balcony, most modern bath exclusively landscaped rooms with shower cubicle gardens. Bordering the resort and bath tub. All rooms are are acres of extensive lawns waterfront, which gives an with nature trails, exclusive exquisite breathtaking view food and beverage outlets of the lake. Take a dip and and a host of recreational laze around one of its kind facilities matching world-class fabulous swimming pools standards. within the private The 58 cottages are lake. Walk around elegantly and stylish the resort and enjoy designed with homely the visually amazing comfort. Deluxe scenes of “God’s Own bedding, spacious Country”. floor plan and all sorts Lake Palace greets Thomas Chandy of modern facilities you to the world of Chairman including premium authentic Ayurveda television channels, in room at the serene Ayurveda safe, tea/coffee maker and Resort that offers traditional mini bar are the specialties of Ayurvedic therapy as well as Lake Palace accommodation. Yoga in a blissfully peaceful The new Premium Lakeview environment. “It also cottages are the epitome of offers authentic Ayurveda true luxury stay. There are 20 rejuvenation and beauty Premium Cottages - facing care package. Classified as the finishing point, featuring ‘Green Leaf’ by Tourism maximum elegance and Department, Govt. of sophisticated richness that one Kerala, it is here Ayurveda luxury lover can ever imagine. is practiced in its classical The additional features and traditional form”. Lake include remote controlled Palace Ayurveda Centre has

developed an Ayurvedic menu to suit your taste as well as your digestive special. Lake Palace wins the Trip Advisor 2012 Winner for Relaxation and Spa category. Kerala, South Indian and North Indian dishes are served at the restaurant here. The seafood speciality restaurant serves local, continental, Chinese, Italian, Mexican and central European styles and the bar is the fully stacked with rare and imported spirits. Other facilities include swimming pool, backwater rides, houseboat stays and other recreational facilities are also available for the guests here. Fishing and bird watching are the main activities for the guest in the resort to give a complete backwater holiday experience. All business facilities are availed at Lake Palace along with a Conference hall and other standard amenities including 24-hour coffee shop, internet access, money charger, Doctor on call, etc. www.lakepalaceresort.com

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Hindustan Beach Retreat

For a perfect holiday experience

industan Beach Retreat is a perfect place to unwind and it gives you a real holiday experience. Varkala is a destination that sprang up the charts in terms of foreign tourist arrivals seeking leisure and sun. Hindustan Beach Retreat, winner of certificate of excellence for 2012 is one of the popular resorts at the Varkala beach that meets international standards of quality and service. The 27 well appointed rooms offers spectacular views of the Arabian Sea as well as the luxury of complete solitude apart from the sounds of nature. The swimming pool overlooking the blue sea, juices and snacks, the poolside

Anil Kumar Partner

barbecue, seafood restaurant on the roof top, multi cuisine restaurant serving Indian, Chinese and continental dishes, roof top conference hall turtle bay spa are some of the highlights here. Ayurvedic treatments, backwater cruises, heritage tours are also availed. The place is renowned for its 2000 year

old Janardhna Temple and the Sivagiri Mutt.The resort is accessible by road, 55 Km North of Thiruvananthapuram. The place is also connected by train to other major towns. www.hindustanbeachretreat.com

Gateway Malabar Holidays Pvt. Ltd

Experience a Malabar touch

ateway Malabar Holidays Pvt. Ltd. is an established destination management company. It provides a clear indication of the company’s commitment to the industry and determination to secure Kerala’s rightful place on the international travel world is Know for the Arab tourist movements in Kerala. Gateway Malabar Holidays always valued and showed respect for the Arab culture apart from ensuring 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 and to enjoy

Ayurvedic therapies. Founded by Jihad Husain about five years back, the company’s moto 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. Gateway Malabar Holidays Pvt. Ltd. has got a powerful team that builds strong relationship with the guests. There was a time when Kerala hardly received any tourist arrival during MarchOctober and it was then that Gateway Malabar Holidays started to promote Kerala to the Arab society. It pioneered a spontaneous change and the

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Premium hotels and resorts in Kerala do not have an offseason now. Arabs have a relationship with India, particularly Kerala. Nonetheless, Kerala was never promoted as a Jihad Husain tourism destination. MD Till Gateway Malabar Holidays initiated the mission, Arabs had no idea Kerala was such a wonderful touring destination. 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 vital for Arabs. Travel writers (bloggers) are hired

for them to share their experience and this has helped Gateway Malabar Holidays to attract more tourists. Now, hotels offer Arabian cuisine and one can even find Arabic speaking drivers and hotels staff to cater to the need of travellers from the Middle East. The number of arrivals from Middle East Asia to Kerala during the off-season has considerably gone up nowadays. Gateway Malabar Holidays can certainly be proud, as they initiated the change. www.gatewaymalabar.com

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PROFILE

The Quilon Beach Hotel and Convention Centre

Where luxury combines scenic beauty

he Quilon is all geared up to Beach Hotel provide professional and Convention MICE tourism Center at the serene infrastructure and beach in Kollam is an services, making ideally located first it an ideal venue five star luxury K. Sreekumar, CMD for corporate hotel in the southern world. Expert event gateway to the backwaters management services are of Kerala. The Quilon Beach provided by the hotel on a Hotel is a 12-storied centrally package or customized basis. air conditions state-of-theThe participating delegates art hotel, with 95 sea facing and executives can enjoy a rooms that offers seven comfortable stay, with all fivewonderful views, which star facilitate. The hotel also include the pulsating Arabian arranges sightseeing trips. Sea on one side, M G Park There is a 10-room Ayurvedic and the main city, centre, which Ashttamudi Lake, is run by greenery, port and Somatheeram backwaters right in Ayurvedic front of the hotel. Group. The facilities include a Somatheeram Ayurvedic multi-cuisine restaurant, bar, centre at the Quilon Beach coffee shop, roof top barbeque Hotel has 10 sea facing restaurant, an infinity pool, treatment rooms which a roof top pool and an provide different treatments International Convention for body and beauty care. center, with a capacity to Somatheeram has a team of accommodate 1500 persons. eminent doctors, providing The infinity pool alongside the ayurvedic solutions using restaurant offers a stunning herbal ingredients to view of the Arabian Sea with ameliorate modern day mind blowing blend of blue aliments caused by life style sky, bright sunlight and the iniquities. blue sea that are sure to lure The 1500 seats your senses while you relax in international convention the pool. There is a pool bar centre at The Quilon Beach to enjoy a few drinks adds to Hotel is one of the finest your swimming experience. conference centers in India. The Quilon Beach Hotel It promises an amazing

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ambiance, with an excellent beach view and the state-ofthe-art conference facilities. Environment initiatives such an 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 aerator 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, harbor and backwater. The lobby, restaurant and rooms are also designed and arranged in a way that the day light up the interiors in a most natural way. It reduces the need for artificial lighting during the day Kiron A time and the hotel G M is easily accessible by road, rail, sea and backwater from other important towns in Kerala. www.thequilonbeachhotel.com

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Biverah Hotel & Suites

Ideal hotel to dwell and dine

iverah Hotel & Suites located in a unique place as a gateway to Thiruvananthapuram, welcomes the guest with the most suitable settings to dwell and dine with a feeling of belongingness and genuine hospitality. Biverah reflects the capital city’s spirit with the right blend of tradition and sophistication. Its luxurious interiors and ideal location combines all the charm of traditional Kerala hospitality and state of the art technology to become the preferred destination for business as well as leisure travellers. Biverah Hotel and Suites, a gate way to the Capital city is conveniently located at Kumarapuram Junction and provides quality accommodation with comfort, tradition, luxury and food to discerning leisure and business travelers. It is Just 4 kms from the International Airport, 18 kms to Kovalam Beach, 24 kms from the Vizhinjam Harbour and 14 kms to Technopark. The 44 well furnished rooms offer a panoramic view of Trivandrum City and

give a calm and serene retreat from the day’s activities. The rooms are classified in executive, deluxe, super deluxe and biverah suite. Diners’ Summit, the multicuisine restaurant serves the very best of world cuisine at any time of the day with mouth-watering variety of European, Chinese and Indian delicacies. The relaxed and comfortable seating ambience at the Diners’ Summit makes a person feel welcomed. Sips n’ Ram Vivek Bites, a coffee shop located just GM off the lobby serves an extensive variety of coffee and tea. It is a great place to meet over gourmet snacks, light meals and beverages. Biverah take care of every detail and specific needs of the function, whether hosting corporate functions, private meetings, wedding receptions, birthdays and special events. It can accommodate upto 200 persons in a theatre setting. The boardroom is ideal for smaller gatherings like a round-table discussion or perhaps a lecture with 15-20 attendees. Rest assured, the guests will enjoy an unforgettable and productive conference at Pacific.

A truly jewel amongst the hotels, Biverah Hotel and Suites is known for its discreet and personal service that goes far beyond the expectations of its customers to ensure that its customers will always want to return for more. www.biverah.com

T& U Leisure Hotel Munnar

A perfect leisure amidst tea plantations

& U Leisure Hotel Munnar is a perfect leisure hotel that enthralls the guest by the unending expanse of tea plantation, pristine valleys and mountains, exotic species of flora and fauna in its wild sanctuaries and forests, aroma of spice scented cool air. Yes this 3 star hotel in Munnar is surrounded by lush green valleys and various plantations and it’s a place that one would never wish to leave. It offers picturesque

sight and scenes that enthral the guests. The plush 30 rooms, the interiors, the lobby and the outdoors add to the details of the evolution of the tea industry. In a way, if you look closely, the leisure hotel has just become the ‘and’ between Tea & you. The hotel is just one kilometer away from Munnar town and is close to all the site seeing areas. The

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multi-cuisine restaurant ‘Top Station’, serves very delicious food to the guests. With Sumesh Joseph a seating (theatre style) capacity of 120 people, conference hall at T& U is perhaps the most ideal rooms are very spacious and hideout to mix business with pleasure. It is well designed categorized into 16 standard rooms, 10 deluxe, three suite with sober and striking colours and state-of-therooms and one honeymoon cottage connected to a art video-audio conference small hanging bridge. facilities for a successful event. All the rooms are facing the valley. The

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PROFILE

Lakes and Lagoons

For a perfect backwater experience

akes and Lagoons isthe first and only ISO certified houseboat tour operating company and a professionally managed company with a fleet luxury Houseboats in Alleppey, Kerala. The natural treasure house is visually splendid with lake, green palms and vegetation, active with the aquatic life and local villages areengaged in everyday routine. Lakes and Lagoons operate the best backwater cruises from Ex-Alleppey, Kumarokam, Markotta and Alumkadavu. The houseboats are known for its excellent caters to Indian as well as overseas guests.The extensive fleet company operates includes a variety of Houseboats both air-conditioned and non air conditioned and is

equipped with all modern amenities including fully furnished bedrooms, toilets, sundecks and a kitchen. The Lake Royale Houseboats is a premium range of houseboats has special features including round the clock A/c, luxurious interiors along with the most

modern amenities streaming fresh and special menu. cooked rice, curries Lakes and with locally grown Lagoons are organic vegetables, pioneered with Pearl Spot (Karimeen) innovative fish fry which is one concepts of a wide of the most sought V.C. Zachariah range of eventat MD dish by the guest, the houseboats the starchy Cassava including wedding, (Tapioca) and fish curry – a meetings, cultural shows etc. veritable tropical feast for The pure ethnic cuisine is a your palate. specialty of the Lakes and Lagoons. The menu includes www.lakeslagoons.com

The Dune

Feel the pulse of a village

thematic hotel, the Dune eco village resort and spa is designed to accommodate the growing demand for long stay destinations with soul and comfort where cultures, ideas and people merge with one another. The 35 acre eco-friendly beach hotel Dune has 30 aesthetic villas and 20 rooms with modern and traditional architecture, swimming pool, organic farm, tennis court and sea front view that welcome the guest. Designed to cater to the growing demand for long

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stay destinations, it is located on the coramandel coast of Tamil Nadu, South India, 150 km from Pondicherry. They are partly built using building material from South Indian Colonial houses, Chettinad palaces and Kerala planter’s mansions. They are fully equipped with solar hot water system, low consumption bulbs and Waste Water Treatment Plant. The new bungalows added recently include the two Wood Houses, the Pool House and the Courtyard House. The commitment to reduce

the impact on the environment is always upheld by the Dune. It houses an organic farm, swimming pool, tennis court and 700m of sea front. The two restaurants; Fun Restaurant and the Lounge serve healthy gourmet fusion food, prepared using organically farmed vegetables. The seafood bar

serves fresh seafood cooked to choice in the grill, the barbecue or the tandoor with fresh salads, sandwiches, snacks and drinks. The Dune is also the base for ‘Artists in Residence’, a programme providing work studios for Artists from all around the world. www.thedunehotel.com

ASIAN TRAVELLER | SEPTEMBER 2012

PROFILE

Vythiri Resort

A delightful eco friendly resort

rapped in lush tropical rainforest, Vythiri Resort Wayanad is a perfect eco friendly jungle hideaway for the tourist from the hustle and busy life. Spread over 150 acre, the resort is well furnished and equipped with all amenities to provide the residents an immediate experience of the surrounding sights and sounds. The resort has six planters retreat

rooms,18 serenity cottages, four Vythiri habitat and vythiri haven offers beautiful view of the lush surroundings, flowing stream and above all inspired by of ancient keralite traditions are ideal Jose Kainady for family and MD couples. Vythiri Havenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Jacuzzi villas are exclusive living rooms with spacious sit outs, located downstream. The four enchanting tree houses high above the rain forest is built

by indigenous tribals with locally available materials. One exclusive child friendly

tree house is also available here. It also provide other facilities like vythiri spa, Conference hall, Ayurveda centre, safe deposite lockers,

health club, coffee shop, multi cuisine restaurant, play indoor activities etc for the guest. Guests can also relax in their cottages or go for walks in the forest in the company of the resident naturalist. Spa, conference hall, ayurveda centre, multicuisine restaurant, coffee shop facilities are offered to the guest by the resort. The resort is just 85km from Calicut International Airport and 18 km from Kalpetta www.vythiriresort.com

Mascot Hotel

Luxury, at its best

ascot Hotel an exclusive premium heritage business hotel offers a perfect blend of heritage, luxury and business in the heart of Thiruvananthapuram city. Mascot was originally built to house the officers of the Royal British Army

during the World War I. Today, it offers the travelers a perfect blend of heritage and luxury with elegantly designed surroundings and a quiet environment in a sprawling landscape amidst the city to make it a favourite retreat for travelers.

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It has 66 rooms that include one royal suit, 36 premium, four suite, 11 deluxe, seven heritage classic and seven heritage grand (with balcony). The Banquet and conference hall consist of symphony hall has a capacity to welcome 400 persons in theatre style and harmony and sonata 125 persons each and melody can hold only 35 persons and is usually held for conducting

meeting. It also provides other facilities for the guest like Ayurveda therapies, coffee shop, health club, swimming pool, etc. The hotel is centrally located and is just four kilometre to the central railway station and bus station and seven kilometres from the international airport. www.mascothotel thiruvananthapuram.com 107

PROFILE

The Golden Compass

At your service

he Golden Compass is a one stop Hospitality Solutions service provider. In the hospitality enterprise segment, the golden Compass gives real meaning by coming together with unique and complementary skills, original ideas, industry experience and exposure, global best practices and processes, innovation and a common vision. The Golden Compass, Custodian John Maliakal , said that the strategic vision of the company is to encompass and introduce the HR concepts like balanced score card for performance management, and also facilitate the return of Keralite hotel professionals from various parts of the country back to home through

their recruitment wing. The Golden Compass, launched by the Casino Group of Hotels, is a core team of keen professionals with the intent to help existing and aspiring hospitality business. Dileep Nair, Chief Custodian of The Golden Compass, said the company aims to be a one stop shop providing seamless services ranging from business consultancy, resource management, transformation, benchmarking, certification and quality assurance, branding, business restructuring, organisational design, system design, CRM & PMS, policy development and deployment. The team at The Golden Compass epitomises a unique blend of youth and

experience, which provide a balance between, experience and creativity. Raju Arumugham, an HR professional and a lead trainer for the last two decades in the hospitality trade, who is the custodian of HR at The Golden Compass emphasised more on raising the customer experience by imparting quality training to the hospitality professionals. The services offered include Concept Development and Design for Hotels, Resorts and Restaurants, Project Management and Services, F & B space and Kitchen Designing, complete Spa Solutions, HR Consultancy,

Training and Development, Recruitment and Placement, Certification ISO/ HACCP and Travel with The Golden Compass. As a part of their social commitment, The Golden Compass under the aegis of I.N.D.I.A. Trust and Entrepreneurship Clubs in colleges organises the scheme, the first ones being Bharat Matha College in Thrikkakara, and the C.M.S. College in Kottayam. The Golden Compass is planning to take this endeavor to other districts of the state, bringing in hospitality and management colleges also, into the scheme. www.thegoldencompass.in

Intersight Tours & Travels (P) Ltd.

A sought-after travel partner

ntersight Tours & Travels, is one of the best inbound tour operators in Kerala. Accrediated tour operator of Kerala Tourism, the company has 20 years of expertise in tourism management and offers customised tour packages. Intersight has luxury fleet with multi-linqual chauffeurs and one could expect committed assistance 24x7. Headquartered in Cochin, the company has a number of braches across India. Intersight group of companies are the proud members of the Travel Agents Association of India, Indian Association of Tour Operators, Travel Agents Federation of

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India, Association of Domestic Tour Operators of India, Confederation of Indian Industries, Indo-German Chamber of Commerce and Kerala Travel Mart Society. Intersight group of companies’ Chairman and Managing Director Johny Abraham George is the Chairman of the Association of Domestic Tour Operators of India (ADTOI), Kerala Chapter. With an enviable track record in the holiday management segment, Intersight has emerged as a highly preferred service provider for clients both from India and abroad. Intersight has also started European

operations with an office at Manchester, United Kingdom and Canada. By fostering strategic relations with major hotels across Kerala, it enjoys the best possible rates and the best of services from some of the finest hotel chains in Kerala. Being one of the top players in this segment, Intersight have thoughtfully diversified into all major areas of Travel and Tourism Management with domain expertise now including Travel Documentation & Airline Ticketing, MICE, Luxury Car Division, Holiday Management, Hotel Reservations etc. to ensure that the customers

have a complete holidaying experience that is hassle free and cost effective. The exemplary performance in providing first-rate customer service helped the company emerge as the official handling agency for India’s National Carrier – Air India, for executing some of the highly acclaimed flyway packages in South India. It has also an excellent International Travel and Tourism Division that offers all-inclusive complete packages to exciting destinations in countries like UK, Germany, UAE, Malaysia, Singapore and Sri Lanka. www.intersighttours.com

ASIAN TRAVELLER | SEPTEMBER 2012

PROFILE

Krishnatheeram

Ethinic wonder

rishnatheeram is perched on the rock formation cliff hugging the Thiruvambady Beach. Spread over Oneacre of prime land. The pristine resort has an ethnic architecture which is indeed warn and welcome. Krishnatheeran resort Varkala is just 50 kilometres from Thiruvananthapuram International Airport Krishnatheeram a tastefully laid out pristine resort with an ethnic architecture is indeed a warm and welcoming sight for sore eyes. The contours of the land and the coconut palms have been judiciously left intact with a marvelous open-air restaurant overlooking the beach and offering stunning view of

endless sunsets setting the horizon ablaze every evening. Vasthu, Prithvi, Amritha and thanal are the 25 well appointed cottages and five tastefully furnished room’s offers comfort and relief to the weary tourist. Prakrithi, the sea facing multi-cuisine restaurant is a holistic health food centre that serves pure vegetarian including Jain food. The open air restaurant offers local delicacies and various sea food delicacies. The Ayurvedic center ‘Charaka’, offers rejuvenating, restorative and curative therapies with a team of qualified doctors and masseurs at your service. Grandha, the well stocked library is a perfect getaway.

Maruthi, the boutique provide bountiful eco products, artefacts from Natures own country. It is just 110 kms from alleppey to Trivandrum and 35 just kms from

Kollam. It also provides other facilities like 24-Hour Front Desk, Safety Locker at Reception, Business centre. Library etc. www.krishnatheeram.com

and has also recently opened sales offices in Mumbai and Bangalore. Looking ahead, Synergy is planning to diversify its business in other cities like Indore, Hyderabad, Chennai, Delhi, Kolkatta and Chandigarh. 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 - Hotel Ivy Studios in Pune and Royal Camps in 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 at 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) and Hotel Kings Kourt (Mysore). www.synergyhotels.net

Synergy

Ensures success

ynergy Hotels and Resorts, over the years, has become synonymous with the hospitality industry. Since its inception in 2005, Synergy Hotels & Resorts has successfully established itself as a top- notch hotel by capitalising on the emerging business opportunities and on the synergies of a group of dynamic and experienced professionals. 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

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focuses on conceptualising, site inspection, planning of facilities, management policies and system, manpower management, F&B management (production and service), 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 professionals 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

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PROFILE

Lulu

A royal place to meet & dine

he largest convention center in Kerala and the second largest in India, Lulu International Convention Center are equipped with the most advanced conference facilities and can enhance the ambience of the place to suit the events. Flexibility and versatility are key factors in the design of this state-ofthe-art technology-driven center. The professional and dedicated team offer superior service and inspired event solutions. With a total built-up area of 1,50,000 sq. ft., Lulu features seven upscale venues which can accommodate up to 5,000 people at a time. Located in the cultural capital of Kerala, Thrissur, this is

one perfect venue for MICE events, seminars, product launches, mega shows, domestic celebrations, gettogethers and marriages. The centrally air-conditioned Lulu Grand, the Main Hall and Ruby Banquet Hall have capacities of 2,200 and 1,100 people respectively. The Non A/c Banquet Hall, Lotus can accommodate 1,000 people. Grand Hall is equipped with the most modern audiovisual facilities. The mini-conference Safina I, II, III is an air-conditioned and carpeted hall which can be segregated into three different halls with a seating for 20 to 450 people. The Central Courtyard

Yusuffali M.A. Lulu Greens is a lush green MD, EMKE Group open air venue apt for evening functions and get-togethers Kerala, launched in 2006. which can easily seat up to Commenting on the future 2,000 people. It can also be plans, Jose Sebastian General facilitated with audio-visual Manager of LuLu ICC and arrangements. The place also Garden Hotels Thrissur holds Lulu Garden hotels mentioned that LuLu has with fully air-conditioned set sights on Bolgatty Island luxurious executive rooms which will feature a 250 room and five suites with double hotel with a convention space occupancy. of 50,000 sq. ft. with a capacity The Clay Oven of 5,000 pax. Expected to cost restaurant offers Rs. 1,500 crore, the project international will be managed by the global cuisines for the gourmet’s hospitality brand leader Hyatt delight. It also has a welland will include a world class equipped health club and a convention center and allied kid’s play park for facilities. Sebastian recreation. further said that the But now in Kerala, property is expected the brand awareness to open in 2014. has increased and But besides people now know Central and Southern more about the LuLu Kerala, LuLu has also brand, and the brain Jose Sebastian , GM targeted Northern behind - the Managing Kerala and has Director Padmashri Yusuff Ali announced one of the most M.A. LuLu ICC Thrissur and anticipated projects – the LuLu Shopping Mall at Kochi convention center-cum-hotel have acted as catalysts to in Calicut. The 110-room create this brand awareness. property will be owned and Headquartered in managed by the LuLu group Abu Dhabi, LuLu has and will cost around Rs. 150 concerns all over the globe. crore. The hotel with health The first venture into the club and spa facilities is hospitality industry was scheduled to open in 2014. the LuLu International Regarding LuLu’s first Convention Center and convention center and hotel in Garden Hotels, Thrissur, Thrissur, Sebastian explains

that besides the brand which is endorsed by the Keralites in the Middle East themselves, the strict standards and adherence to quality has made the position of the convention center a coveted one not just in Kerala, but all over India. The Garden Hotels is also set to expand with an additional 90 rooms to the current 35.

www.luluicc.in ASIAN TRAVELLER | SEPTEMBER 2012

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Incredible India

1. Who inspired the novel ‘ Around the World in Eighty Days’ for Jules Verne? 2. Who was the first Pope? Elisa Saw has joined Prince Hotel & Residence Kuala Lumpur as Director of Marketing Communications

Douglas Martell has joined InterContinental Hotels Group as Vice President – Operations, South West Asia

Saji Joseph has joined Le Meridien Kochi as General Manager

3. What is the meaning of the city name ‘Rio de Janeiro’? 4. What does the brand name Sansui mean? 5. What was the first beer brand in India (it was for Asia too!)? 6. What is the national flower of Nepal? 7. Which is the only city built on two continents?

Kanika Hasrat has joined The Courtyard by Marriott, Gurgaon, as General Manager

Karen Merrick has joined Centara Ras Fushi Resort & Spa Maldives as General Manager

Kroongtana Nimnu has joined Sahara Star as Ocean’s Chef De Cuisine

8. How did Montreal get its name? 9. Which is the most populous island in the world? 10. How is Reginald Dwight better known? Compiled by Deekay

Send in your answers to info@mediastepsindia.com with TYKC 59 in the subject line. Answers should reach us before the 30th of this month. Answers to TYKC 58 1. Andre Agassi.

2. Italy ( Radio Audizioni Italiana).

3. Students.

4. Listed as BID. 5. Rio de Janeiro. 6. The word game, Scrabble. 7. Paul Buchheit.

8. Chamonix, France (1924).

9. Denmark.

10. Water ( in Russian)

WINNER OF TYKC 58

Akash Sen “Snehatheeram” Manacaud P.O Thiruvananthapuram Kerala.

One all-correct entry will get

Free Stay at UDS, Kovalam [ 2 nights and 3 days for two ]*

With its sleek and stylish design, Uday Samudra Leisure Beach Hotel is nothing less than a golden feather in the cap of Kovalam beach. Located just 15 metres from the sea, this four star hotel can well be categorised into a destination in itself. Its philosophy of combining the best elements of incomparable lifestyle, with the convenience of today’s modern world through exceptional standards of luxury, elegance and services, is well reflected in its products and services and has put the Uday Samudra Beach Hotel, popularly known as UDS, at the top position, in Kovalam. What is more noteworthy about UDS Kovalam is the international flair it sports.

* Conditions apply

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ASIAN TRAVELLER | SEPTEMBER 2012

Kaziranga is best remembered for its highest population of the giant prehistoric mammal - the Rhinoceros un icornis. The other big famous Five of Kaziranga are Asiatic Elephant, Asiatic water Buffalo, Royal Bengal Tiger, Swamp Deer and Hoolock Gibbon, the only ape, found in this part of the country. To see more of Kaziranga is to visit the place, unmatche in natural beauty and of course the hospitality waiting for your appreciation in this World Heritage site.

Assam Tourism is there to make your visit a memorable one

For details please contact : Director of Tourism, Assam, Govt. of Assam Station Road, Guwahati - 781 001 Website: www.assamtourism.org e-mail: director@assamtourism.org Ph. No. 0361-2547102, 2542748 (Fax) ASIAN TRAVELLER | SEPTEMBER 2012