TOURISM INDIA JANUARY 2018

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Charming

Chikkamagaluru ‘A green slice of heaven on a permanent coffee high’

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Editor’s note

New Dawn and never ending hopes

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ne more new year has just arrived. Another page of the calendar vanishes with despair and uncertainty for some, with happiness and profits for some others. New Year always comes with resolutions, hopes and targets to focus and work for achievements.

According to latest report by UNWTO, International tourist arrivals grew by a remarkable 7% in 2017 to reach a total of 1,322 million. This strong momentum the highest in seven years is expected to continue in 2018 at a rate of 4%-5%.

2017 was characterised by sustained growth in many destinations and a firm recovery in those that suffered decreases in previous years. Results were partly shaped by the global economic upswing and the robust outbound demand from many traditional and emerging source markets, particularly a rebound in tourism spending from Brazil and the Russian Federation after a few years of declines.

The reports also predicts that current strong momentum is expected to continue in 2018, though at a more sustainable pace after eight years of steady expansion following the 2009 economic and financial crisis. Based on current trends, economic prospects and the outlook by the UNWTO Panel of Expert, UNWTO projects international tourist arrivals worldwide to grow at a rate of 4%-5% in 2018.

This is somewhat above the 3.8% average increase projected for the period 2010-2020 by UNWTO in its Tourism Towards 2030 long-term forecast.

Europe and the Americas are both expected to grow by 3.5%-4.5%, Asia and the Pacific by 5%-6%, Africa by 5%-7% and the Middle East by 4%-6%. Asia and the Pacific recorded 324 million (+6%) international tourist arrivals in 2017. Arrivals in South Asia includes India, Sri Lanka and Maldives were grew by

10% in the last year.

Our country is not just a nation, but a subcontinent of a million surprises. We have the potential to make this land the number one tourist destination in the world. Unfortunately we have several hurdles, on many fronts, on the way of achieving this goal.

Criticisms, recommendations and suggestions to improve the destinations may be endless. But, at this juncture, we require some drastic and focused strategy and action to achieve our target in near future.

This New Year dawn is very special and auspicious for Team Tourism India, as we are celebrating our 20th anniversary this May. We would like to express our gratitude to the support of Travel, Tourism, Hospitality and aviation industries of India. Indian tourism witnessed enormous growth in the course of these two decades and we are happy and contended to be a part of this changing phase of our country and 20 years of successful journey as a responsible travel publication to promote Incredible India within our country and globally.

We are introducing a new look to this venerable magazine which is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year. The new classy design and international quality production with enriched content and eye catching images of this revamped magazine are imagined to meet your expectation. We ask for your encouragement and to continue the support you extended to us to make our voyage more successful and memorable in the future as well. Thank you all for being with us.

Tourism India wishes all our readers and well wishers a productive and prosperous 2018!

Ravisankar KV Editor

January 2018 Tourism India

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INDIA’ S January 2018, Vol 20, No 9

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M AGAZINE

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Taiwan Lantern Festival World Travel Award Grand Finale WTTC Tourism for Tomorrow Award finalists UNWTO Innovation Award Art adventures New Zealand

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Charming

Chikkamagaluru ‘A green slice of heaven on a permanent coffee high’

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January 2018 Vol 20 No. 9

Managing Editor Ravisankar K V Executive Editor Rajani A Consulting Editor Biju Thomas Art Editor N Bhattathiri Design Editor Gopakumar K Sub Editor Bhavitha V Photographer Vivek R Nair, Murukesh Iyer Management executive Divya N.S Business & Editorial Associates London T Haridas +44 7775833754 Germany Thomas Kannenkeril +4915124367982 New Delhi D Anilkumar +91 9868123311 Mumbai K.V. Satyanath +91 9745598126 Kolkata Jayasree Singh +91 94330 60333 Bangaluru Damodaran K Nair +91 8310955261 Coimbatore Biju Thomas +91 9944562027 Pondicherry Ramasubramanian +91 9894977161 Editorial & Corporate office Tourism India Publications Pvt. Ltd SEKT 52, Tourism House, Thamarakulam Lane Sasthamangalam P o, Trivandrum, Kerala, India 695010 Tel: +91 471 2315256 fax: +91 471 2315197 Contact us editor@tourismindiaonline.com Mob: +91 9847060531 circulation@tourismindiaonline.com Mob: +91 99471 60531 marketing@tourismindiaonline.com Mob: +91 99472 60531 Internet edition www.tourismindiaonline.com No part of this magazine may be reproduced without the written permission of TOURISM INDIA PUBLICATIONS PVT LTD. All rights reserved. Copyright @2018 Edited, Printed and Published by Ravisankar K V on behalf of Tourism India Publications PVT LTD, SEKT 52, Tourism House, Thamarakulam Lane, Sasthamangalam P O, Trivandrum, Kerala, India 695010 Printed at Chakkala Printers, Trivandrum for Arsha Offset Graphix, Janvilla Lane, Sasthamangalam PO, Trivandrum 695010 Editor: Ravisankar K V

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Chikkamagaluru NATURE’S POEM WRITTEN IN COFFEE Rambling hills, pristine pools, fascinating nooks and crannies with a shrine, intriguing caves, lush mists and dreamy woods make the geography of Chikkamagaluru- The land of Coffee, one of the most beautiful hill station in Karnataka.

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Karnataka Tourism announces KITE First edition of Travel Expo’ will be an ideal marketing tool for the promotion of Karnataka Tourism in future.

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New Kerala Tourism Policy will bring a positive upsurge for the overall development Of Kerala.

Mr. Kadakampally Surendran, Minster for Tourism, Govt. of Kerala

22 BIENNALE TURNS A GROWTH CATALYST OF ART & CULTURE Kochi-Muziris Biennale (KMB) become the gateway between Kerala and the world, with diverse expressions of international art and

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Save up to half price with oman air pass The Oman Air Pass has been re-launched with a host of new destinations included – flights between Oman and other GCC countries and the Indian Subcontinent

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ATOAI aims double digit growth in Adventure Tourism

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Munich’s ‘10-Star’ Hub

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SWISS celebrates 10 years of Delhi Zurich route

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Brussels Airlines continues to invest in Mumbai mvarket

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SriLankan touches Cloud 9

NATURE, THE ULTIMATE LUXURY AT TRIVIK

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Art adventures New Zealand New Zealand offer visitors, from grandscale art in parks to making movie magic, a range of exclusive artistic and cultural experiences.

Maldives opened up a fresh chapter of new goals and accomplishments for the New Year.

News/Global Recognition

ECO TOURISM TRUST INDIA

WINS UNWTO AWARDS 14th UNWTO Awards for Innovation in Tourism, instituted in four categories - Public Policy and Governance, Research and Technology, Enterprises and Non-governmental Organizations

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cotourism Trust (India), Turismo de Portugal I.P (Portugal), Tryponyu (Indonesia) and SEGGITUR (Spain) are the winners of the 14th Edition of the UNWTO Awards for Innovation in Tourism. Fourteen projects among 128 applicants from 55 countries were selected as finalists of the 14th UNWTO Awards for Innovation in Tourism.

The winning projects, divided into four categories - Public Policy and Governance, Research and Technology, Enterprises, and Non-governmental Organizations –, have been announced at the UNWTO Awards Ceremony held in

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Tourism India January 2018

Madrid at the International Tourism Trade Fair in Spain (FITUR).

“We honour the vision and commitment of individuals, administrations, companies and organizations that every day builds a better future by harnessing the potential of tourism. The work of all the finalists of the 14 UNWTO Awards on Innovation is an

inspiration to all of us”, underlined UNWTO Secretary-General, Zurab Pololikashvili, in his opening remarks.

Attended by nearly 500 participants from different countries, the UNWTO Awards Ceremony, co-organized by IFEMA|FITUR, emphasized how the tourism community

Ecotourism Trust (India), Turismo de Portugal I.P (Portugal), Tryponyu (Indonesia) and SEGGITUR (Spain) are the winners

Bird Watching Tour at Chilika Lake, Odisha

The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) is a forum for the travel and tourism industry. It is made up of members from the global business community and works with governments to raise awareness about the travel and tourism industry. It is known for being the only forum to represent the private sector in all parts of the industry worldwide.

List of Awardees of the 14th UNWTO Awards for Innovation Public Policy and Governance Winner

Turismo de Portugal I.P, Portugal

Tourism Training Talent (TTT)

Second Prize

Ente de turismo de la ciudad de Buenos Aires, Argentina

MiBarrio applied research Project

Third Prize

Management Committee of Longmen Grottoes “Internet + Longmen” action plan World Cultural Heritage Park, China Enterprises

has embraced sustainable and innovative approaches. The UNWTO Awards for Excellence and Innovation in Tourism are held annually to highlight and promote the work of organizations and individuals around the world that have impacted the tourism sector.

Their achievements have served as an inspiration for competitive and sustainable tourism development and the promotion of the values of the UNWTO Global Code of Ethics for Tourism and the Sustainable Development Goals.

The 14th Edition of the UNWTO Awards was organized in collaboration with the International Tourism Trade Fair in Spain (IFEMA/ FITUR) and supported by the Macao Government Tourism Office, the National Secretariat of Tourism of Paraguay-Itaipu Binacional, the Ministry of Tourism of the Republic of Argentina, the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Tourism in Colombia, the Ministry of Tourism of Ecuador, Wonderful Indonesia, the Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority; and National Geographic.

Winner

Ecotourism Trust, India

Conservation and Livelihoods: Community managed ecotourism, MANGALAJODI

Second Prize

Valle dei Cavalieri, Italy

Community and Resilience: two villages tackle depopulation

Third Prize

Balesin Island Club, Philippines

Three-Pillar innovation Initiative

Great Plains Conservation and the Great Plains Conservation Foundation, Botswana and Kenya

Conserving and expanding natural habitats

Non-Governmental Organizations Winner

Triponyu.com, Indonesia

Connecting people through local experiences

Second Prize

Grupo Ecológico Sierra Gorda, México

Strengthening community tourism

The Sumba Hospitality Foundation, Indonesia

Educating and empowering local communities for Sustainable tourism futures

Associazione YODA, Italy

IT.A.CÁ- Migrants and Travelers, Festival of Responsible Tourism

Third Prize

Research and Technology

Winner

SEGITTUR, Spain

)Smart Tourism System (SIT

Second Prize

EarthCheck, Australia

Building Planning and Design Standard )(BPDS

Croatian National Tourism Board, Croatia

eVisitor- Croatian national tourist information sysem

Third Prize

January 2018 Tourism India

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News/Global Recognition

GHE finds place in WTTC TFT AWARD FINALISTS WTTC announced 15 Finalists for its 2018 Tourism for Tomorrow Awards in 4 categories; Destination, Environment, Innovation and People.

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he World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) has announced the 15 Finalists for its 2018 Tourism for Tomorrow Awards.

The 2018 Finalists cut across five continents in the following categories: Community, Destination, Environment, Innovation and People. Global Himalayan Expedition is the only Indian entry in this prestigious awards final list.

Now on its 14th year, the WTTC Tourism for Tomorrow Awards showcases business practices of the highest standards that balance the needs of ‘people, planet and profits’ within the sector. All the 15 Finalists illustrate great commitment to support

a change in policies, business practices and consumer behavior towards a more sustainable tourism sector.

The Winners of the 2018 Tourism for Tomorrow Awards will be announced during the Awards Ceremony at the 18th WTTC Global Summit, Buenos Aires, Argentina on April 18-19, 2018.

Gloria Guevara, President and CEO of WTTC said: “Sustainable growth is one of the sector’s most pressing challenges and a strategic priority for WTTC. The Tourism for Tomorrow Awards showcases the very best examples of how our sector is addressing this challenge, and contributing in a positive way to the sustainable development goals and

Global Himalayan Expedition Global Himalayan Expedition (GHE) experience is dubbed as the Adventure Pilgrimage and visitors to get to the great mountains, and let the peaks inspire you. The team GHE, says that they don’t see themselves in the field of running

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Tourism India January 2018

Expeditions, they sees themselves as just facilitators for a memorable experience, whose job is to create a fertile environment for future growth and collaborations, for both the participants and the hosts.

a better world for all. As the Travel & Tourism sector continues to grow, and WTTC currently estimates global Travel & Tourism to have grown by nearly 4% in 2017, we have to ensure we safeguard the environment, local communities and cultural heritage, and our Awards programme calls on tourism businesses to showcase just that.”

Awards Lead Judge, Graham Miller, Executive Dean of the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences at the University of Surrey, said that, “this year’s finalists represent all parts of the world and show that across the world, tourism can be a powerful way to achieve sustainability goals. “ “We see examples of tourism organizations that have created huge land and marine protected areas, educating children about the importance of heritage, empowering women and bringing micro-power to areas with no electricity. Some of these organizations are large and owned by shareholders, others are small and funded by a community or just an individual, but they all demonstrate that tourism can make today and tomorrow more sustainable.”

The Finalists of the 2018 WTTC Tourism for Tomorrow Awards, which is Headline sponsored by AIG Travel for the third year, are: Community Award Finalists, whose organizations are committed to sustainable tourism leadership in local community development, empowerment and cultural heritage

The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) is a forum for the travel and tourism industry. It is made up of members from the global business community and works with governments to raise awareness about the travel and tourism industry. It is known for being the only forum to represent the private sector in all parts of the industry worldwide.

Rural landscape of Majestic Himalayan ranges

GLOBAL HIMALAYAN EPEDITION THE ONLY INDIAN ENTRY IN TOURISM FOR TOMORROW AWARDS. includes, Global Himalayan Expedition from India along with &Beyond from South Africa and Sustainable Development Institute Mamirauá from Brazil Destination Award Finalists, who show commitment to supporting and delivering sustainable tourism best practices in their destinations are Corporación Parque Arví – Colombia, Riverwind Foundation – USA and Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association – Canada.

Environment Award Finalists, whose organisations and companies achieved environmental best practice through

biodiversity conservation, protection of natural habitats, addressing climate change, and green operations are Airport Authority Hong Kong - Hong Kong, Chumbe Island Coral Park (CHICOP) – Tanzania and Meliá Hotels International – Spain.

Innovation Award Finalists, who provided innovative solutions to overcoming the challenges faced by Travel & Tourism in implementing sustainability in practice are Transportation Options – Canada, Virgin Atlantic - United Kingdom and Yayasan Karang Lestari Teluk Pemuteran (Pemuteran Bay Coral

Protection Foundation), Indonesia.

People Award Finalists, who are dedicated to the development of capacity building, training and education to build a skilled tourism workforce for the future, are Cayuga Collection of Sustainable Luxury Hotels and Lodges - Costa Rica, Heritage Watch – Australia and TREE Alliance – Cambodia.

The winner of each category will be determined by the WTTC Tourism for Tomorrow Awards 2018 winners’ selection committee which is chaired

by Fiona Jeffery OBE, Tourism for Tomorrow Awards Chair, and composed of: Sandra Howard Taylor, Vice Minister of Commerce, Industry and Tourism of Colombia; Jack Spengler, Director of the Centre for Health and the Global Environment of the Harvard Chan School; and Darrell Wade, Co-Founder and CEO of Intrepid Group.

January 2018 Tourism India

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News/Global Recognition

Mr. Sujit Nair, Group Managing Director and Mr. Basheer Abdul Rahim, Group Director & CEO of Akquasun group Mumbai receiving the World’s Leading Destination Management Company 2017 award from Mr Graham Cooke, President & Founder, World Travel Awards

Akquasun & Oberoi shines at World Travel Awards Oberoi Hotels & Resorts, Akquasun, Maharajas’ Express, GVK Lounge International by TFS Performa and Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport, Mumbai are the award winners from India

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beroi Hotels & Resorts, India’s leading luxury hotel brand brings proud moments to the country by winning coveted World Travel Awards 2017 for World’s Leading Luxury Hotel Brand, while Mumbai based Akquasun group bagged the award for World’s Leading Destination Management Company.

India’s own Maharajas’ Express

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Tourism India January 2018

scooped their award in the category of World’s Leading Luxury Train.

Oberoi Hotel has also received the top title, World’s Leading Hotel 2017 to their, Oberoi Udaivilas, Udaipur in Rajasthan, during the glittering red carpet event which took place at the glamorous JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay in Vietnam recently, were GVK Lounge International by

TFS Performa @ Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport, Mumbai, which was recognised as World’s Leading Airport Lounge - First Class 2017.

In the Airline category, Singapore Airlines has once again maintained their World’s Leading Airline award intact in 2017 too. Srilankan Airlines was honoured with the award for World’s Leading Airline to the Indian

Ocean and Oman Air has received multiple awards for World’s Leading Airline - Economy Class and World’s Ultimate Service Award in Hospitality.

Emirates and Air Asia were bagged two awards each, World’s Leading Airline - First Class and Emirates – Skywards for World’s Leading Airline Rewards Programme 2017, while Air Asia once again safeguarded their World’s Leading Low-Cost Airline tag and World’s Leading Low-Cost Airline Cabin Crew awards one more year.

Meanwhile the Maldives walked away with the prizes for World’s Leading Dive Destination and World’s Leading Honeymoon Destination, while Hulhule Island Hotel, Maldives picked up the award for World’s Leading Airport Resort. Caribbean Island, Jamica has secured two awards for World’s Leading Cruise Destination and World’s Leading

World Travel Award

World Travel Awards was established in 1993 to acknowledge, reward and celebrate excellence across all key sectors of the travel, tourism and hospitality industries.

Today, the World Travel Awards brand is recognised globally as the ultimate hallmark of industry excellence.

World Travel Awards™ celebrates its 25th anniversary year in 2018. Its annual programme is renowned as the most prestigious and comprehensive in the global industry. Each year World Travel Awards™ covers the globe with its Grand Tour – a series of regional gala ceremonies to recognise excellence within each continent, culminating in a Grand Final at the end of the year.

The Oberoi Group The Oberoi Group is a hotel company with its head office in Delhi.

Founded in 1934, the company owns and/ or operates 30+ luxury hotels and two river cruise ships in six countries, primarily under its Oberoi Hotels & Resorts and Trident Hotels brands.

Srilankan Airlines adjudged as World’s Leading Airline to the Indian Ocean Wedding Destination. Kenya has adjudged as the World’s Leading Safari Destination.

Abu Dhabi, UAE has voted as World’s Leading Sports Tourism Destination along with Sir Bani Yas Island, Abu Dhabi as World’s Leading Sustainable Tourism Destination 2017.

Elsewhere Middle Eastern icon, Emirates Palace, picked up the trophies for World’s Leading Conference Hotel and World’s Leading Luxury Beach Resort and The St Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort took the titles World’s Leading Luxury New Resort and World’s Leading Luxury Island Resort.

Mr. Rajesh Shetty of Travel Food Services.Pvt. Ltd. Mumbai receiving the World’s Leading Airport Lounge - First Class award from Mr Graham Cooke, President & Founder, World Travel Awards on behalf of GVK Lounge International by TFS Performa @ Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport, Mumbai

Mr. Alok N. Mathur, Group General Manager (Services), Maharajas’ Express receiving the World’s Leading Luxury Train award Maharajas’ Express from Mr Graham Cooke, President & Founder, World Travel Awards

January 2018 Tourism India

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News/Global Recognition

Valene L Smith wins UNWTO Ulysses Prize UNWTO Ulysses Prize was awarded to Dr. Valene L Smith and Ethics Award to Europa Mundo Vacaciones

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rofessor Emeritus and Research Professor at the California State University, Chico, California, United States of America, Ms. Valene L Smith, won the prestigious UNWTO Ulysses Prize for Excellence in the Creation and Dissemination of Knowledge in Tourism, while “Europa Mundo Foundation”, an associate of Europa Mundo Vacaciones, a Spanish tour operator, who strongly committed to the principles of environmental and social responsibility and has achieved remarkable results in the implementation of the UNWTO Global Code of Ethics for Tourism, particularly in its contribution to community well-being and sustainable development of tourism has bagged UNWTO Ethics Award. , The UNWTO Awards recognize inspirational individuals and projects for their innovative achievement as

well as their invaluable dedication to developing and advocating sustainable tourism in line with the UNWTO Global Code of Ethics for Tourism and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The 14th Edition of the UNWTO Awards will take place in January 2018, co-hosted by FITUR, the International Tourism Fair in Spain/ IFEMA in Madrid, Spain. The Awards Ceremony will be preceded by the UNWTO Awards Forum where finalists will present their respective projects.

Professor Smith is a pioneer in tourism and anthropology, with an extensive number of projects and accomplishments throughout her extensive career. Her classic book, ‘Hosts and Guests’ (University of Pennsylvania Press, 1977), proceeded by her 1953 geography courses, marked the start of this connection

Honors and Awards

2010 Named, Valene L. Smith Museum of Anthropology, California State University, Chico

1998 Founding Chair, IUAES Commission on Tourism 1993-2005 Chair, Working Group on the Anthropology of Tourism, International Commission of Anthropological and Ethnographic Sciences

1988 Founding Member, International Academy for the Study of Tourism (IAST), United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), Madrid, Spain 1986-1992 US Delegate to the Tourism Commission, International Geographical Union

1983 Outstanding Educator, Soroptimist International of the Americas 1981-82 Outstanding Professor, California State Colleges and Universities 1969-70 Chancellors’ Leave for Creative Activity

A group of tourists enjoying the Europa Mundo Vacaciones experience

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Tourism India January 2018

1953-54 Fulbright Professor, University of Peshawar, Pakistan

News/Travel EVents

Launch of Karnataka International Travel Expo Logo (From L to H)-Mr. Alam Khan, Chairman, Karnataka State Tourism Development Corporation, Mr. Priyank Kharge, Minister for IT, BT & Tourism, Mr. TK. Anil Kumar, IAS, Secretary, Department of Tourism, Government of Karnataka, Mr. Kumar Pushkar, IFS, Managing Director, Karnataka State Tourism Development Corporation and Mr. Vijay Sharma, IFS, Managing Director, Jungle Lodges & Resorts Ltd.

Karnataka Tourism announces KITE 2018

KARNATAKA INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL EXPO 2018; AN IDEAL MARKETING TOOL FOR THE PROMOTION OF KARNATAKA TOURISM IN FUTURE

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he ‘Govt. of Karnataka Department of Tourism’ announces ‘Karnataka International Travel Expo’ from the 28th February - 2nd March 2018 to be held at the Bangalore International Exhibition Centre (BIEC). The inaugural expo is the largest B2B travel event in India. A platform of over 400 registered buyers and media from over 25 countries seek to further enhance the tourism sector.

The three-day event will attract over 1,000 delegates facilitating over 10,000 pre-matched appointments to bring together International Buyers and sellers for face-to-face meetings, education forums and networking.

Mr. Priyank Kharge, Minister for Tourism, IT & BT, Govt. of Karnataka said “Karnataka International Travel

Karnataka International Travel Expo’ to be held at BIEC from Feb 28 – March 2, 2018.

Expo’, being held for the first time, will provide the impetus to the inbound travel and tourism and would enhance the marketing efforts of Karnataka Tourism to promote our destinations to the travel-trade from all over the world”.

The chief goal of the expo is to increase the overall size of the tourism sector. The event is expected to gather and international professionals looking to find new ways to further Karnataka as an ideal destination.

Trade and hospitality associations including the Association of Domestic Tour Operators Association of India (ADTOI), Adventure Tour Operators Association of India (ATOAI), India Association of Tour Operators (IATO), TAAI, FKCCI, FHRAI, Karnataka Tourism Forum etc are among the January 2018 Tourism India

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News/Global Recognition

Kerala State Tourism award winners with Mr. Kadakampally Surendran, Minister of Tourism, Kerala,Mr. V.K. Madhu, Thiruvananthapuram District Panchayath President, Smt. Rani George IAS, Secretary, Tourism, Mr. Balakiran IAS Director, Kerala Tourism, Mr. Rahul IRS, MD, KTDC, Mr. EM Najeeb, President of CKTI and Mr. P.K. Anish Kumar, President, ATTOI

Leela Raviz & Intersight wins Kerala State Awards CGH bagged two awards while Marriot Kochi, Somatheeram, Estuary, Teak Town, Chalukya Grace and Kalypso Adventure among the winners

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The Department of Tourism, Government of Kerala, presented the much-awaited ‘Kerala State Tourism Awards 2015-2016’, honoring Kerala’s best tourism service providers for their exceptional performances. Mr. Pinarayi Vijayan, Chief Minister of Kerala, who inaugurated the awards ceremony at the Hotel Taj

Trivandrum presented the prestigious award to the winners.

Speaking on the occasion, Chief Minister said, the value of public participation in tourism is phenomenal and urged for an inclusive tourism approach with public participation which can make Kerala the best destination for international tourists. CM promised

that the Government of Kerala is relentlessly striving to bring in more prosperity in the tourism sector of Kerala.

The launch of an updated version of www.keralatourism.org was also launched by Honorable Chief Minister.

Mr. Kadakampally Surendran, Minster for Tourism, Co-operation

Awardees

Mr. Pinarayi Vijayan, Chief Minister of Kerala launching the new version of www.keralatourism.org at Trivandrum.

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Tourism India January 2018

Mr. Pinarayi Vijayan presenting the Best Tour Operator award to Mr. Abraham George, MD of Intersight Holidays.

Mr. Pinarayi Vijayan presenting the Best Approved & Classified Ayurveda Centre award to Sri. Baby Mathew, CMD and Smt. Sarah Mathew, Director, of Somatheeram Aurveda group

and Devaswom, presided over the awards ceremony. He promised to implement the recommendations included in the New Tourism Policy quickly within the specified timeline.

The Minister strongly believed in the strength of Kerala Tourism industry and shared his hope that the New Tourism Policy will bring a positive upsurge for the overall development Of Kerala. The Minister requested the leaders of Tourism Industry to contribute to the Chief Minister’s Relief fund and help to the victims of Okhi cyclone.

Tourism and Culture Secretary Ms. Rani George IAS welcomed the gathering and hoped Kerala will be on top of Global Tourism Map. She congratulated the Award winners on behalf of Kerala Tourism Department and strongly believed that the New Tourism Policy implemented will yield wonderful results empowering Kerala Tourism Industry .She added that the success of the New Tourism Policy is a collective responsibility and shared her optimism about the leadership of CM Mr. Pinarayi Vijayan and Tourism Minister Kadakampally Surendran.

Mr. VK Madhu(District Panchayat President), Mr. EM Najeeb, (President CKTI), Mr. Baby Mathew (President KTM Society), Mr. P.K. Aneesh Kumar PK (President, ATTOI), Mr. Jaffar Malik IAS (Additional Director, Kerala Tourism), Mr. A> R. Rahul IRS, MD,

Mr. Ganesh Ravi Pillai, Executive Director Raviz Hotels & Resorts receiving the Best Five Star Deluxe Hotel award for The Leela Ravz Kovalam from Mr. Pinarayi Vijayan

Tourism awards 2015-16

The value of public participation in tourism is phenomenal and an inclusive tourism approach with public participation which can make Kerala the best destination for international tourists.

Pinarayi Vijayn, Chief Minister of Kerala

In-Bound Tour Operator Inter sight Tours and Travels Pvt. Ltd Five Star Deluxe Hotel The Leela Raviz Kovalam Five Star Hotel Kochi Marriott Hotel Heritage Hotel Coconut Lagoon, Kumarakom Four Star Hotel Spice Village in Thekkady Three Star Hotel Estuary Island, Poovar Ayurveda Centre Somatheeram Research Institute & Ayurveda Hospital Homestay Rose Gardens Eco- Friendly Homestay, Munnar

KTDC were among those present.

Mr. P Bala Kiran IAS (Director, Kerala Tourism) proposed a vote of thanks.

Tourism Awards 2015-16 for exceptional contribution: The Kochi based ‘Inter sight Tours and Travels Pvt. Ltd’, has been named the best Inbound tour operator of Kerala. The award for best Five Star Deluxe Hotel in Kerala was bagged by The Leela Raviz Kovalam, Thiruvananthapuram, and the award for best Five Star Hotel in Kerala went to Marriot Hotel Kochi at Lulu International Shopping Mall Pvt Ltd, Edappally. while Coconut Lagoon, Kumarakom is the Best Heritage Hotel.

The award for best Four Star Hotel

Serviced Villa Teak Town, Malappuram.

Best Hotel Manager Rajesh Nair, Eastend Hotels Hotel/Tourism Management Institute Oriental School of Hotel Management Use of IT in Tourism The Sanchari Facebook Community Adventure Tourism Kalypso Adventures Tourism Police V.B. Rasheed Tourism Lifeguard Premjith T.V. Tourism Related Report G. Jyothilal, Senior Sub Editor, Mathrubhumi Tourism Photography Rajan. M. Thomas, Malayala Manorama Best practices in the field of Responsible Tourism Chalukya Grace Tours, Thiruvananthapuram

Mr. Peter Thomas, Director, Thomas Hotels & Resorts Mr.Anand Ganesan, General Manager of Marriot Hotel and Mr. Sobi, GM of Estuary Island Resort receiving the receiving the Best Five Star Hotel from Mr. Pinarayi Vijayan Best Three Star Hotel (Honorary Mention) award from Mr. Pinarayi Vijayan

January 2018 Tourism India

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News/Global Recognition

Mr. Johny Tom, GM of Spice Village Thekkady receiving the Best Four Star Hotel award from Mr. Pinarayi Vijayan

Mr. Shamboo G., GM of Coconut Lagoon Kumarakom receiving the Best Heritage Hotel award from Sri. Pinarayi Vijayan

Cdr. Sam T Samuel, MD of Kalypso Adventures Kochi receiving the Best Adventure Tour Operator award from Sri. Pinarayi Vijayan

Mr. Robin, Principal, Oriental School of Hotel Management, Lakkid, Wayanad, receiving the Best Hospitality Management Institute award

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Tourism India January 2018

received by Spice Village Thekkady and the best three Star Hotel award went to Estuary Island Resort, Poovar, Thiruvananthapuram.

The award for best Approved & Classified Ayurvedic Centre in Kerala was grabbed by Somatheeram Research Institute and Ayurveda Hospital, Chowara and the award for best Approved & Classified Homestay in Kerala went to Rose Gardens Eco Friendly Homestay, Munnar. The award for best Service Villa in Kerala was obtained by Teak Town, Ruby Estate, Malappuram. The Oriental School of Hotel Management, Wayanad reserved the award for the category of Best Tourism/Hotel Management Institute in Kerala Mr. Rajesh Nair of Eastend Hotel and Resorts was judged as the best Hotel Manager in Kerala and Mr. V.B. Rasheed as the best Tourism Police and Premjith T.V as the best Tourism Lifeguard. n the category of the Most Innovative use of Information

New Kerala Tourism Policy will bring a positive upsurge for the overall development Of Kerala.

Mr. Kadakampally Surendran, Minster for Tourism, Govt. of Kerala

Technology in Tourism Sector, Sanchari, a Facebook Community bagged the award. Chalukya Grace, Thiruvananthapuram was awarded for their best practices in the field of Responsible Tourism. Kochi based Kalypso Adventures was named the best adventure tourism operator and DarulUloom, as the best Tourism Club.based Kalypso Adventures was named the best adventure tourism operator and DarulUloom, as the best Tourism Club.

Mr. Sreekumar Menon, MD and Mr. Janeesh Jala, Director of Chalukya Grace Tours Trivandrum receiving Mr. J.K. Marattukulam, MD of Teak Town Nilambur the Best Responsible Tourism initiative award receiving the Best Serviced Villa award

Mr. Rajesh Nair, GM of Eastend Hotels & Resorts receiving the Best Hotel Manager award

Sanchari Face Community Admins receiving the Most innovative use of IT in Tourism award

News/Appointments

David Hodges, new Country Manager for Virgin Atlantic India

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Prasanth Nair PS to Union Tourism Minister

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r. Prasanth N IAS, a 2007 batch Kerala cadre Indian Administrative Service officer assumes charge as Private Secretary to Mr. Alphonse Kannathanam, Union Minister of State (I/c) for Tourism, Governemnt of India. He has been appointed private secretary for a period of five years in the rank of deputy secretary.

Mr. Prasanth, popularly known as “Collector Bro” in social media, earned the name for his various social service projects, like Operation Sulaimani for Hunger free Kozhikode and Savarigirigiri for safety and security of students, apart from the globally recognized “Compassionate Kozhikode”, while serving as district collector of Kozhikode. He had served as the private secretary of Ramesh Chennithala while the latter was the home minister.

Mr. Prasanth, has a sound knowledge and experience in travel and tourism sector, and served as the Managing Director of Kerala Tourism Development Corporation and the Director, Grand Kerala Shopping Festival. His passionate project

“Compassionate Kozhikode” was selected as one of the 50 inspirational global projects in the world by ITB Berlin in 2015 and Mr. Prasanth was one among the main speaker of the ITB Responsible Tourism session in 2015, while holding the office of District Collector of Kozhikode.

Mr. Prasanth is a Law Graduate and started his Civil service carrier as Assistant Collector in Kozhikode and then sub collector, Wayanad. He has served various position like Additional Excise Commissioner, Director of Employment and Training , MD of Kerala Academy of Skill Excellence, Kerala State Beverages Corporation Ltd., Priyadasrshini Tea Estate and Aralam Farming Corporeation Ltd., Chief of Kerala Tribal Resettlement Mission, Executive Director of Kerala Rural Water Supply & Sanitation Agency (Jalanidhi), , Project Director of Kerala Land Information Mission ( Bhoomi Keralam) and Kerala State Transport Project ( KSTP) and Director of Kerala Institute of Research, Training & Development of Scheduled Castes & Tribes ( KIRTADS).

irgin Atlantic designated David Hodges as the new Country Manager for its Indian operations. In his new title role, David will drive Virgin’s business at a strategic and commercial level for all sales within India.

David, an able industry leader with a decade of business development and external affairs experience, has an established track record of leadership and business expansion at large, complex, multi-national organisations including varied roles at London Chamber of Commerce and Industry and Brevia Consulting where he worked with multinational companies such as EDF Energy and T-Mobile.

“I am very pleased to take up this new role at Virgin Atlantic and excited to be part of the dynamic team in India.

We will continue to champion the needs of the customer and tap the incredible growth opportunities in both leisure and business segments. ”, said David.

January 2018 Tourism India

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News/Adventure Tourism

India Aims High in Adventure Tourism Ministry of Tourism, Government of India has announced 2018 as ‘The Year of Adventure Tourism.

O

n the behest of ATOAI, MOT announced 2018 as “The Year of Adventure Tourism”.

The Association will spearhead various activities across the country to promote adventure travel to celebrate the year of adventure tourism. “The goal is to double the adventure travel in the country in the next two years,” Said Mr. Swadesh Kumar-President ATOAI on the announcement.

For past few years the focus of ATOAI has been creating widespread awareness about adventure tourism being one of the important facets of tourism in the country and the need to promote India as one of the most popular adventure tourism destinations in the world. India as an adventure tourism destination has grown in popularity both in the domestic and international market.

The celebration of 2018 as Year of Adventure Tourism will greatly help in achieving the goals which ATOAI has set.

ATOAI is aiming to have a series of events, road shows in India and overseas, FAM trips for international adventure tour operators as well as travel media to mark the celebrations. ATOAI has already given a wish list to MOT for holding the events like India Adventure Summit in April 2018, ATTAAdventure Next in Panchmarhi,

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Madhya Pradesh, and are also planning to bid for PATA Adventure Travel Mart and Conference in India to be held next year.

ATOAI is making all efforts to increase their membership across the country from the present strength of 450 to 2000 by the end of 2018. They are also coordinating with Adventure Tour Operators Associations in smaller towns, making them their Affiliate members through which reaching to their members to come in the fold of ATOAI. ATOAI and its members have always been in the front when it comes to the safety of the clients.

Today there are many deaths annually due to negligent operators not operating within laid down guidelines. It is ATOAI’s duty to make sure that these accidents and fatalities are reduced to a minimal if not Zero. ATOAI team has prepared a version 2 of the Safety Guidelines for adventure tourism. MOT has circulated these guidelines in all states, a meeting was held on 27th December where these guidelines were shared and discussed with the representatives of all Indian states.

MOT has given them two weeks to come back with any changes/ additions. After which the guidelines will be implemented across all Indian states.

ATOAI has been creating widespread awareness about adventure tourism and the need to promote India as one of the most popular adventure tourism destinations in the world.

January 2018 Tourism India

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News/Art & Culture

BIENNALE TURNS A GROWTH CATALYST OF ART & CULTURE Kochi- Muziris Biennala the gateway between Kerala and the world from its first edition

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he Kochi-Muziris Biennale (KMB) has become a major driver of art and culture in Kerala and India, built enduring infrastructure for culture, triggered economic spin-offs in the tourism sector, spawned jobs, and bolstered Kochi’s international reputation as a vibrant place for cultural pluralism and a destination for new-age arts, says a report by professional services firm KPMG. The report on the 108-day-long third edition of KMB (December 2016-March 2017) states that the biennale, which began in 2012, has rapidly become one of India’s best-known art and culture brands, given global exposure to local artists, revived lost art forms, lent life and vibrancy to old dilapidated buildings in Kochi through ‘soft urban renewal’, and infused art in public places.

“Through the celebration of international contemporary art, KMB invokes the historic cosmopolitan legacy of the modern metropolis of Kochi and its legendary predecessor, the ancient seaport of Muziris,” says the 44-page report, which is based on a comprehensive survey of visitors, artists, volunteers, business owners, vendors and local residents.

Chief Minister Shri Pinarayi Vijayan, who formally released the report on Wednesday, has described KMB as “the gateway between Kerala and the world, with diverse

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Mr. Pinarayi Vijayan, Chief Minister of Kerala formally releasing the KPMG report on Kochi Muziris Biennale.

Mr. Adoor Gopalakrishnan, renowned Film Maker, Mr. Boss Krishnamachari, Dr TM Thomas Isaac, Minister for Finance, Mr. Arun Kumar, Chairman and CEO of KPMG in India , Mr. Kadakampally Surendran, Minister for Tourism, Government of Kerala, Smt. Rani George IAS, Secretary, Tourism, Mr. G. Vijaya Raghavan, Former Planning Board member and Mr. P. Bala Kiran IAS, Director of Kerala are also seen

Ms. Anita Dube is the curator for the 4th edition of KMB

expressions of international art and culture moving freely and being brought together under one umbrella.”

Finance Minister Dr TM Thomas Isaac and Tourism Minister Shri Kadakampally Surendran were also present at the function.

As knowledge partners, KPMG in India reviewed the economic contribution of the arts and culture in Kochi along with the impact of investment that the Govt. of Kerala provided in support of arts and cultural facilities during the three months that the event was underway.

Over three editions, KMB has established itself as one of the most

as a crowd puller with nearly 600,000 visitors arriving for the event, and around 62 per cent of the international tourists were visiting Kerala for the first time,’ the report noted.

Essentially an art event, the biennale’s strong economic underpinning is evident from indices like job creation (working with artists, volunteers), impact on tourism and hospitality, home stays, transport (increase in ridership of airways, railway, ferry and roadways), real estate, vendors and service-based business sectors.

An installation art from Biennale.

600,000 visitors arrived in Biennale 2016 and around 62 per cent of the international tourists were visiting Kerala for the first time.

important art exhibitions in the world. Aspinwall House, the mother venue, has become synonymous with this Biennale, just as the Giardini and the Arsenale are with

the Venice Biennale.

In particular, Biennale 2016, which featured 97 artists from 31 countries, gave an impetus to tourism. ‘KMB 2016 can be termed January 2018 Tourism India

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News/Statistics

Foreign Tourist increased in india e- Visa for the citizens of 163 countries is the key factor for the growth of FTAS

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Tourism India January 2018

2014

76,79,099

W

ith the intention of increasing foreign tourist arrivals (FTAS) to the country, the Ministry of Tourism under the “Incredible India� brandline, promotes various tourism destinations and products of India.

These promotional activities are being undertaken by the 14 India Tourism Offices based in New York, Los Angeles, Toronto, London, Frankfurt, Amsterdam, Paris, Milan, Dubai, Johannesburg, Sydney, Beijing, Singapore and Tokyo.

Apart from these promotional activities, the Government has taken various other initiatives to boost tourism in the country like, extended the facility of e- Visa for the citizens

The number of Foreign Tourist Arrivals in India for the last three years

2015

80,27,133 of 163 countries, launched 24x7 Toll Free Multi-Lingual Tourist Helpline 1800111363 in 12 Languages, constituted a Medical & Wellness Tourism Promotion Board, offered Central Financial Assistance (CFA) to State Governments/Union Territory Administrations for development and promotion of tourism.

2016

88,04,411

News/Hospitality

Wyndham Grand Hotel in Athens

WYNDHAM TO EXPAND ITS INDIA PRESENCE Wyndham Hotel Group is planning to add 20 hotels with 1,600 rooms within 10 years

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he hotel giant, Wyndham Hotel Group with an unmatched global presence of more than 8,100 hotels in 78 countries, has further expanded its footprint in India and neighbouring countries with the opening of eleven new hotels in 2017.

In addition, the Group expanded its pipeline of new hotels in the region with 15 new signings. Two-thirds of the new launches are in India, reenforcing the Group’s presence in the country’s rapidly growing mid-market hospitality segment.

This robust expansion in India is a part of Wyndham Hotel Group’s comprehensive plans to expand its footprint across the Eurasia region, which is comprised of 16 countries including India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Nepal, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Mauritius, Maldives,

Pakistan and more.

Wyndham Hotel Group also signed a non-exclusive development agreement with Ahmedabadbased Nebula Infraspace LLP, to develop at least 20 hotels with 1,600 rooms over a period of 10 years across India under the Hawthorn Suites

by Wyndham® brand. Hawthorn Suites by Wyndham® is the Group’s

benchmark extended-stay brand, offering guests a home away from home.

Another milestone achievement last year was the opening of the company’s first Wyndham Garden hotel in the region, which is located in Astana, Kazakhstan. Wyndham Hotel Group now has 47 operational hotels in the Eurasia region, almost 75% of which are in India.

“India’s hospitality industry, especially the mid-market segment, is thriving from strong growth in domestic travel, an increase in foreign tourists, as well as a booming airline industry supported by government-led initiatives. Our goal is to ensure that wherever across India or the region that travellers want to go, they will find a Wyndham Hotel Group hotel to meet their needs and their budget,” said Deepika Arora, Wyndham Hotel Group’s Regional Vice President, Eurasia. “Furthermore, our new and planned hotel openings signify our commitment to India’s thriving hospitality industry and our endeavour to offer travellers the most choices wherever their travels may lead them.”

As part of the company’s commitment to creating value for guests, Wyndham Hotel Group offers Wyndham Rewards® – named a best hotel rewards programme for the past three consecutive years by U.S. News and World Report and the most valuable hotel loyalty programme two years in a row by consulting firm Idea Works.

Our goal is to ensure that wherever across India or the region that travellers want to go, they will find a Wyndham Hotel Group hotel to meet their needs and their budget.

Deepika Arora Regional Vice President, Eurasia, Wyndham Hotel Group

January 2018 Tourism India

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News/Adventure Event

Muziris Paddle

Rowing with a Motive a group paddling event of Kerala Tourism in association with Jellyfish Watersports, focused on Kayaking & SUP with adventure and leisure theme, on January 19 – 20, 2018 to promote the Adventure and Activity based tourism and Muzirsis Heritage project

K

erala Tourism had announced a unique Adventure and activity based tourism annual event named Muziris Paddle, a group paddling event in association with Jellyfish Watersports, Kozhikode , focused on Kayaking & SUP with adventure and leisure theme, on January 19th and 20th to promote the Adventure and Activity based tourism and Muzirsis Heritage project. This

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event will also be a conjunction programme with Kochi Muziris Biennale 2018.

The Kayakkers started their thrilling water challenge from Kottappuram Jetty at Kodungallur in Thrissur district of Kerala in the morning on January19th and end at Eranakulam Jetty on January 20th 2018.

The 2 day, 40 km event with overnight camping targeted a

international tourists and national adventure enthusiasts. 50 - 75 paddlers took part in the event this time. The event was entirely supervised by Jellyfish Watersports team with experienced river guides and professionals and in association with local associations, non profits and nature groups to promote the social cause of the event and goal of protecting our water and ‘leave no

trace’ concepts similar to Chaliyaar River Challenge event, which was held last year. The team had requested all the kayaking clubs in the country to join and promote this event.

Chaliyaar River Challenge event, the 68 km paddling event was organised to promote the usage of rivers for recreational usage and to create a bond between the river and youngsters.

Rivers are neglected in our country.

We respect them as mothers but forget the relation while throwing industrial waste, domestic waste and other wastes in them. Water adventure sports like rafting take place in hill stations only where water is fresh but as we come towards the plain-land, rivers have reduced to a drain as they are used more for commercial than recreational purposes. Kayaking for a cause is helping in creating more awareness about the conservation of river.

Tourism India and Kerala Tourism magazines are also joined with the organizers as Travel Media partners to highlight the importance of water sports activities to protect and promote our dying rivers.

Jellyfish Water sports

Jellyfish Water sports in Kerala was launched offering strictly human powered and Eco-friendly water sports activities (non-motorized) in their facility located at the waterfront of the Chaliyaar River within the city limits of Calicut (Kozhikode), near Kolathara area, just a paddling distance of 5 km from the iconic Beypore port and estuary where the river meets the Arabian Sea.

Tourism India is the Travel Media partners for Muziris Paddle to highlight the importance of water sports activities to protect and promote our dying rivers in India.

January 2018 Tourism India

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Cover story/Destination

NATURE’S POEM WRITTEN IN COFFEE Rambling hills, pristine pools, fascinating nooks and crannies with a shrine, intriguing caves, lush mists and dreamy woods make the geography of Chikkamagaluru- The land of Coffee, one of the most beautiful hill station in Karnataka

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Danduru

Nandi Narasimnarajpura Kadur Shiragolale

Chinkkamangaluru

Kundur

January 2018 Tourism India

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Cover story/Destination

By Mohan S

C

hikmagalur has played host to an event, thanks to which, countless Indians wake up to brighter mornings. Centuries ago, when the Sufi mystic Baba Budan smuggled seven coffee beans from Yemen into India, he probably didn’t bargain for millions of coffee junkies unwittingly blessing his soul every day, with every sip of their coffee.

Chikmagalur, whose hills nurtured the coffee culture at its bosom, is a green slice of heaven on a permanent coffee high.

Rambling hills, picturesque landscapes, pristine pools, breathtaking architectural marvels, fascinating nooks and crannies with a shrine, intriguing caves, lush mists and dreamy woods make the geography of Chikmagalur.

The journey to the highest peak in Karnataka is so engaging that you

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forget to be scared - when there is reason to be afraid, very afraid. The roads are tricky, yes, but getting to the top is worth the while. Just like the 10 km trek to the gorgeous Habe Falls is - it’s almost impossible by vehicle and is inaccessible in the monsoons. Despite all that coffee, Chikmagalur is far from a gracious host. You need to work hard to win her affections.

Chikmagalur was a princess dowry, years ago this land was given as a gift to the younger daughter of a legendary chief who ruled Sakrepatna- Rukmangada.

The younger daughter of King

Rugmagada Raya brought with her a pretty portion of the Western Ghats as her dowry, thus giving the place its name - Chikka-magal-uru or Younger Daughter’s Village.

The enthralling greenery and pleasant climate has earned a lot of appreciation to Chikmagalur the beautiful hill station destination on the western part of Karnataka.

The magnificent beauty and forte of Chikmagalur lies in its green pastures all around. The coolness and tranquility of the region is reserved even during the hottest of summer. One could not find the over-flowing of concrete structures

The popularity of coffee grew steadily and in 1670, the first coffee seeds reached India, smuggled out of Yemen by a Sufi named Baba Budan.

sprawling all over here or any impact of density of population, which makes Chikamagalur stands apart among other hill stations of India.

Bababudan Giri ranges are the renowned attraction of Chikmagalur, these mountain ranges came to be known in the name of a Hindu sage Baba Budan who resided here 150 years ago. These mountain ranges have got 3 caves and one of these is believed to have cremated the dead bodies of sages. The three large caves said to have been sanctified by three siddhas contain their icons and gaddiges (tombs) and an annual ‘jatra’ (fair) is held here in their honour. The enthralling scenery makes this a much frequented pilgrim centre.

Sri Guru Dattatreya Baba Budan Swami’s Darga is another spot which both Hindus and Muslims think of as sacred place to visit worship and get blessings. The main peaks in this range are ChandradronaParvathaShreni (Chandradrona Mountain Range), as they naturally form the shape of a crescent moon.

Chikmagalur is also famous for its special coffee aroma, as it is believed that coffee was first made in Chikmagalur. It is supposed that Muslim saint Babu Budan brought the coffee seeds in 1670 from Yemen and cultivated them here. The Central Coffee Research Institution at Chikmagalur acquaints you with the history, geography, botany, tradition and technology that blend cheerfully in your morning cup.

The Coffee Museum, situated in the township of Chikamagalur gives detailed insight and knowledgeable information about coffee plantation and the history of coffee.

Located 55 kms away from the city, Kemmangudi is one of the most beautiful hill spots in Chikamagalur.

Situated up in the hills of Baba Budangiri mountain ranges, these hills are about 1440 meters above

Datta Peeta in middle of nature

D

atta Peeta is a religious place located in the Baba Budangiri Hills, a holy shrine visited by Hindu and Muslims alike. It is believed that the cave here provided shelter to Guru Dattatreya and Hazrat Dada Mir Khalandar, that it is a symbol of brotherhood. You have to climb down around 300 odd steps to reach the place through a very narrow passage provided on steps.

A three day annual celebration called Urs is organized here by the Muslim

devotees and the Hindu devotees visit this place during the karthika poornima celebration.

The route to the hills is very scenic with greenery all around. The mountains are plain green, easy to walk around on them, and a beautiful place to sit and enjoy the lovely view of the valleys.

It remains cloudy and misty during monsoons which make the experience even more fulfilling. One can hire taxi from Chikmagalur to this place.

January 2018 Tourism India

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Cover story/Destination the main sea level. The enchanting sunset viewed from here is absolutely gorgeous. Adventure tourists will get enchanted by these green-claded hills. The Rose Garden here is very famous and the view of the landscape from Z-point is mesmerizing.

Another interesting hill in Chikamagalur is MullayanGiri, which is the fourth highest peak between the Himalayas and the Nilgiris. There is a famous trekking trail between Mullayanagiri and Baba Budangiri, about 16 kms distance from the town which is also a part of BudanGiri mountain ranges. The hill which is 1930 meter above Main Sea Level

Long treks, safaris and breathing plenty of fresh, coffee-scented air - Chikmagalur makes you feel so good that you want to throw your arms around the world. is the highest point in Karnataka state. It is stunning to watch the movement of clouds while standing on these mountain top. The temple on top of this mountain gives the place a religious touch.

Kudremukh is another interesting hill station about 95 kms away from town of Chikamagalur. The hill resembles the face of a horse; and hence it got the name Kudremukh.

The hill is about 1895 meter above Main Sea Level.

About 10 km away from Kemmangudi hill station is the Kallathigiri waterfalls which is 122 meters high. Veerabhadra temple and Shiva temple nearby are also very famous. A Hanumana Gudi waterfall

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Belavadi temple

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elavadi shri Veera Narayana temple is a three shrined temple. This is the few Hoysala heritage sites which are still being preserved and the three temples of Veera narayana, Gopala Krishna and Yoga Narasimha are sculpture and architectural beauties of Hoysala dynasty.

The three shrines – one Lord Veera Narayana seen straight as you enter, and then on the right side is the Lord Yoga Narashimha and on left side is the Lord Krishna statue. All the three statues are around 8 feet high. Lord Krishna with flute is one of the best seen. Veera Narayana is lord Vishnu with four hands and Lord Yoga Narasimha as half lion

and half Human avathar of lord Vishnu taken to kill the demon Hiranyakasap.

The temple is belived to be constructed in two phases, earlier the central shrine was constructed and later on the additions were made.

While the famous temples at Belur and Halebidu are known for their intricate sculptures, this temple is known for its architectural marvel.

This temple is about 45 km from Chikmagalur. It’s quite easy to find, and located in a small village. The temple is well maintained.

Amrutesvara Temple

A

mrutesvara Temple is more than a spiritual site; it is an epitome

Chikmagalur Coffee

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he saga of Indian coffee begins at Chikmagalur, the beautiful hill station destination on the western part of Karnataka. It is believed that the legendary saint Bababudan brought seven magical beans from distant Yemen and planted them in the Chandragiri hills of Karnataka. The sensations that we relish today with each cup of coffee is rooted in these mystical beginnings. Chikmagalur Coffee is identified and marketed as a separate indigenous brand by the Indian Coffee Board. the main coffee product of this region is Arabica and Robustabeans.

Chikmagalur coffee plantations have also produces rare and very specialty Indian coffee varieties like Mysore Nuggets Extra Bold and Robusta Kaapi Royale in their plantations.

of Hoysala architecture. Built in the 12th century by the Hoysala dynasty, the temple reminds us of the history and legacy of the place along with its architectural grandeur.

The temple is situated in a peaceful place near Bhadra river cistern Amruthapura village, which is 67 km from Chikmagalur. This temple was one of the master pieces of Malithamma the greatest architect and sculptor of 12th century. His notable work includes the beautiful Kesava temple at Somnathapura. It took 42 years to erect this marvel. Impressive feature of this temple is the 3 main entrances to the sanctum sanctorum, each entrance portrays Brahma, Vishnu and Maheshwara in a grand kirtimukha.

The temple architecture and structure is in typical Hoysala style with striking shining pillars. The inner mandapa of the temple is supported by pillars with roofs that depicts floral designs, whereas the outer walls of open mandapa depicts the scenes from the Indian epics. The ramayana is sculpted in the anti-clockwise direction which varies from other Hoysala structures. Stories of Krishna and Mahabharata are however depicted clockwise. Inside the temple one can also find a large stone inscription, which is an exemplar of medieval kannada poetry. This temple is very close from Chicmaglur and less promoted as compared to Belur and Halebeedu.

January 2018 Tourism India

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Cover story/Destination is another interesting waterfall in this area.

As far as Chikamagalur is concerned, Hebbe waterfalls are an important and a heartwarming place. The waterfall is situated in the dark and deep greenery. The lovely sight of waterfall, which gushes down from a height of about 170 metres high, (551 ft) in two stages to form DoddaHebbe (Big Falls) and ChikkaHebbe (Small Falls) will many a times make you wonder if it is waterfall or milk. The option of trekking is available here (as of Aug 2016), but the place is filled with leeches especially in the rainy season.

Another very important and must see waterfall in Chikamagalur is Jhari Waterfalls, situated amidst coffee

Get ready for a journey

Things to do

Trekking in Chikmagalur is one of the most preferred activities by tourists. If you are an adventure lover, you are sure to love the many trekking trails that Chikmagalur has. Of all the trails, the Kemmanagundi trail is said to be one of the most popular one. With breathtaking views of nature, one must trek when in Chikmagalur. As Chikmagalur is famous for its coffee plantations; you can buy authentic coffee beans from here, there is a wide variety of beans that you can choose from.

Best time to visit

September to March is the best time to visit Chikamagalur. During these months the climate is Mar favorable and you can explore the district comfortably. But beyond the best possibilities of the season one can see visitors roaming around the place throughout the year. Highest temperature recorded here is 34oC.

How to reach

Chikmagalur is easily accessible from Bangalore and Mangalore.

To reach Chikamagalur by road is the best option. Bangalore which is about 243 kms and

Ballalarayana Durga Fort

A

fort full of history and mystery, Ballalarayana Durga fort midst dense forest and on the mountaintop of the beautiful Western Ghats is an amazing one. This isolated fort can only be reached by trekking through the hilly forest region which is situated in Bettabalige, 20 min drive from Megur homestay. It is one of the few forts that can be found in the Western Ghats.

The BallalarayanaDurga fort was constructed by the wife of Veera Ballalal who was the king of the Hoysala Empire in the 12th century.

The Hoysalas were known to be patrons of art and architecture and built several temples and a few forts during their rule.

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The journey to the highest peak in Karnataka is so engaging that you forget to be scared - when there is reason to be afraid, very afraid. The roads are vtricky but getting to the top is worth the while. plantation. Access to the waterfall is not allowed by private vehicles, one will have to either walk or hire rented jeeps.

MaikyaWhater a falls, Kadambi falls etc are other enchanting and famous waterfalls in Chikamagalur.

Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary is

situated about 38 kms away from the town of Chikamagalur. This amazing sanctuary hosts so many wild animals including tigers. Bhadra sanctuary has a wide range of flora and fauna and is a popular place for day outings. Another visual treat is the sight of Hire Kolale Lake. The

from Mangalore one can reach Chikamagalur via road travelling a distance of 152 kms. And by road, you can either opt for state run buses or even luxury ones.

If you opt to travel by air, then the nearest airport is Mangalore and it is situated approximately 160 km away from Chikmagalur. Mangalore airport is connected to every major city of the country. If you want to take a train to Chikmagalur, you can get down at Gudur railway station which is the nearest at 40 km. Any train from Mumbai, Kolhapur, Hubli and Goa halt at this railway station.

Where to stay

Chikmgalaur has some really great accommodation options ranging from mid range to luxury hotels, homestays as well as resorts. It has also got a lot of smaller or middle budget (expensive wise) hotel rooms which will easily fit within the family budget and also there are quite a lot of home-stays options to experience the real local hospitality of this region.

water level here never falls down even during the hottest of summers.

Though small in size, the beautiful view and shape of the lake invites the attention of tourists.

The dense distribution of tall green trees, mist enwrapping the valley like clouds, coffee plantations, plenty of waterfalls all over the place, Silver Trees all over the place, serene valleys and pleasant hills –makes Chikamangalur a unique place among other hill stations of India.

Another specialty of Chikamagalur is the beautiful Silver Oak trees.

Silver oak trees are like some human beings, who live for others and forget about their own life. They

Jamalabad Fort a trekker’s paradise

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mazing mesmerizing is Jamalabad Fort, a trekker’s paradise. Jamalabad fort, located 8 km north of Beltangadi town, is 1788 ft above sea level and was formerly called Narasimha Gudde, which refers to the granite hill on which the fort was built.

The fort was built by Tippu sulthan and named after his mother Jamalabee.

It is believed that impressed with the massive granite rock there he built this fort here. The fort was built over the ruins of an old structure. Inside the fort there is a tank to store the rainwater.

exist to be shade trees for certain cultivation, and as support tree for climbers like pepper. The Silver oak trees don’t take much but they just exist to support other plants.

In Chikamagalur Silver Oak is the second next tree after coffee, in terms of numbers. Old trees are often cut down for making plywood or cricket bat.

Sringeri, the world famous place is hardly 90 kms from Chikamagalur town. Sringeri is located beside Tunga river banks. Sringeri Peedam established by the Hindu sage Sankaracharya is a famous pilgrimage centre for Hindus. This pilgrimage centre is quiet famous

There are about 4500 plus steps and a horse way to the top of what is said to be second biggest single rock in Asia. . It is exhausting yet thrilling with lot of picturesque locations and lots of greenery. Once on top, you can find a pond whose depth has not yet been determined and also a small shelter to take rest.

There is a nominal entry fee per person. The best time to start the journey is around sunrise because as the time passes the rock gets heated up very fast.

among the students regarding its religious beliefs. The pious temples here like Sri VidyaSankara Temple, Sankaracharya Temple, Sri Ganapathy Temple etc stand as a examples of India’s cultural and religious base.

Other locales here are the Sri Adishankaracharya Sharada Lakshminarasimha Peetam, Kalabhairaveshwara Temple, Veeranarayana Temple, and Sarada Temple. It is an amazing sight to see the clouds trundling along the hill tops and equally an enchanting experience to watch the mist, like a white cloak, enwrapping the green and naked mountains, which can only be seen and experienced here.

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feature/Hospitality

Ducia solorestis evenienem ius, solorporae. Itam atecabo resequid quiam accullam et que pore veliat.

NATURE, THE ULTIMATE LUXURY Trivik Resorts Chikmagalur gives you the perfect amalgamation of luxury, leisure and convenience, while seamlessly blending in with their natural habitat.

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RIVIK CHIKMAGALUR is a new luxury hill station resort located on the highest peak of Karnataka which is called Mullayangiri. The resort is spread out in 38 acres of coffee plantations, Chikmagalur as a destination boasts about its coffee since Chikmagalur is India’s coffee producing state.

Trivik Resorts Chikmagalur, owned

by Bangalore based Trivik Hotels & Resorts, gives you the perfect amalgamation of luxury, leisure and convenience, while seamlessly blending in with their natural habitat.

They care for their environment and live in harmony with the atmosphere of peace and tranquillity provided to them by the picturesque surroundings.

They are mindful and socially responsible for the development of the regions they abide and therefore employ workforce from local population and are keenly involved in training and providing a source of livelihood to indigenous families there. They also offer a real experience of local flavour of the local community to their guests.

Trivik Chikmagalur offers the best luxury in terms of view, space and services overlooking the wide spread Western Ghats which is better known as the SHOLAS and is rated Number 01 in Chikmagalur among its competition. At present Trivik Chikmagalur has 31 suites in three different categories, each suite comprising of 1500 sq.ft of space

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An aerial view of Trivik Resort, Chikamgalur

which has a living room, Corridor, Bedroom, walkin wardrobe and all the bathrooms having Jacuzzi’s. The rooms are Top Notch with proper amenities that make the guest stay comfortable as home.

Facilities such as Activity Zone, Infinity Swimming pool, Kids Zone (Children between 01 – 07 years), Health Club, Spa, Coffee Trail, Sholas Banquet hall that caters strongly to the MICE segement. Tour to the highest peak in Karnataka – Miullayangiri which is organized by the Resort Team, Leisurely walks along dense coffee estates, historical tours, energetic treks in the Western Ghats are just some of the things you can do at Trivik Chikmagalur.

suites in three different categories, each suite comprising of 1500 sq.ft of space which has a living room, Corridor, Bedroom, walkin wardrobe and all the bathrooms having Jacuzzi’s.

They are mindful and socially responsible for the development of the regions they abide and therefore employ workforce from local population and are keenly involved in training and providing a source of livelihood to Mr. Sam K Philip General manager Trivik Chikmagulur

Facilities Activity Zone, Infinity Swimming pool, Kids Zone, Health Club, Spa, Coffee Trail and Sholas Banquet hall.

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feature/Hospitality

Room with a view – Enjoy the panorama of the hills from Luxurious Suite room

Trivik Resorts stands head and shoulder tall when it comes to hospitality skills, you will be surprised with the warm reception of the personnel’s here.

They have three Food & Beverage outlets – Arabica - Multi Cuisine Restaurant, Robusta – The Bar, Valleyview – Coffeeshop. Their food is always spoken well by guests as they focus more on Local Malnad cuisine along with a blend of other cuisines.

The view from the restaurant is amazing as it overlooks the western ghats of Karnataka. Again, the restaurant staffs are full of warmth and the service awesome.

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Trivik Resorts team of dedicated personnel will be at your service to ensure that your experience with them is extraordinary. They are in tune with your requirements, right from the time of booking and till much after you have left the resort.

In simple words – STAY & EXPERIENCE TRIVIK COS WORDS CANNOT DESCRIBE THIS BEAUTY ON THE HIGHEST PEAK OF KARNATAKA IN CHIKMAGALUR.

face-to-face/Personality

Standing at the Highest Peak Sam K Philip, GM, Trivik Chikmagalur r. Sam K Philip, General Manager, TRIVIK HOTELS & RESORTS is one of the vibrant face of hospitality industry in South India and have more than two decade of experience in the tourism and hospitality industry’s sales, marketing and operations side. Now he overlooks Trivik Chikmagalur, a luxury hill station resort in CHIKMAGALUR. Sam shares his experience with the editorial team of Tourism India. From the excerpts

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the Bangaram Island Resort. I lived, learnt and delivered hotel operations there. Later I was transferred to Coconut lagoon, Kumarakom and then back to Muthoot Leisure & Hospitality as Corporate General Manager which was a big challenge. I trained myself to handle Sales / Marketing and Hotel Operations and Pre- opening. Trivik as a brand came by and I took up, did the Pre-opening for the resort in Chikmagalur, which is the best in Chikmagalur now.

Tell a little bit about yourself and how you come to choose this line of work?

I grew up seeing my Godfather who had a catering service Joecees at Tiruvalla, he was involved and loved the food business. My mother was also a part of the venture during the initial days of Joecees as a helping hand. So probably seeing catering events and been part of the rush mode during those childhood days of mine somewhere my interest started growing in the service sector and choose hospitality as my career and now I am glad for the same.

I was born and bought up in Hyderabad, did my education at Andhra Pradesh until my parents decided to settle in Kerala. After my Hotel Management graduation, I spent few years with Joecees to understand the field better and started my career as a Front Office assistant at Abad Plaza Cochin.

Soon stepped into Sales & Marketing to understand the version of branding and selling and was with Gokulam Park inn Kochi, then with Muthoot Cardamom County, Thekkady in Kerala as Business Development Manager until I got the best opportunity with CGH Earth Hotels to manage their unit in Lakshwadeep,

What is the biggest challenge as a General Manager?

Different roles that a General Manager plays because few take up running brands and few do pre-openings but the biggest challenge is to put in your learning’s, values and have the entire team following

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I have a clear plan, to be in the place where I am now which is the highest peak in Karnataka.

the same with the vision that the particular brand has. A General Manager also has the challenge of supporting the Local community in various ways through social responsibility programmes, Local employment, empowerment of women and educating the team on the destination, various practices and experiences that we do that gets translated well to the guest.

Most important is trying to maintain a lean organization with optimization of resources to achieve the goal. The present position that, I am in now has big responsibilities right from preopening the resort since it’s a luxury project spread in 38 acres of coffee plantations, creating a TEAM, building the brand for better business, guest experiences, executing the best of the intangibles, making TRIVIK the best brand in Chikmagalur.

What do you like the most about the industry?

As the word HOSPITALITY describes, everyday is a new situation, new guests, it’s a perfect mix of tangibles and intangibles, gives an opportunity to interact with staff at different levels and to motivate them. Meeting guests from various platforms and states and countries, responding to their needs at the same time showcasing our abilities gives me utmost happiness. Hard work and focus pays well in the hospitality sector and that is what I like the most.

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To what strategies do you attribute your success?

No Strategies as such but yes definitely focused on what I want and should be. I have a clear plan, to be in the place where I am now which is the

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face-to-face/Personality How you compare the operations and marketing side of Kerala & Karnataka?

Kerala as a state has a good mix of top brands and investors with classic products which in return forms a good association of people who want Kerala as a Destination to grow well with regard to tourism and opportunities are in line for staff as competition is high in each district. The investors take the front line in Kerala to promote as they are the main stake holders. In Karnataka it’s the opposite, there are good hotel brands like the Taj, Orange county, Serai, windflower who have been in for long and very few private investors like TRIVIK, a destination grows only when it is spoken loud by the tourism forum of the respective state and the stakeholders.

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How you compare Thekkady, Munnar and Wayanad with Chikmanglore?

Chikmagalur is still in its growing days and has great potential. It has not been marketed well as a destination to sustain unlike Thekkady, Munnar or Waynad. But am sure Chikmagalur will be known better as we stakeholders along with others are trying to showcase Chikmagalur strongly as a destination that has the highest peak in Karnataka, Muthodi Tiger Reserve, temples such as Bellur, Hallabedu and waterfalls that entice the eyes.

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Mr. Sam K Philip with wife Nisha and kids Sneha and Philip.

highest peak in Karnataka, in song with nature and its beauty it is not easy for many. Have spent two years with the brand TRIVIK, spent most of the time in the resort trying to understand what the guest and staff want, kept thinking about how to build the brand stronger in the Local Market – Chikmagalur. Hats off to my investors as well who have shown the courage and will power to conceive the idea into reality and giving us the opportunity to build the brand.

In your opinion, what are the skills required for a professional in the hospitality industry, especially when it comes to your position?

Everybody is blessed with many skills and all are talented in their own ways but when it comes to a position he or she needs to have through knowledge of the job department wise, should be focused and determined to achieve the goal set and most important to lead by example

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and be a good Leader.

Is tourism in Karnataka on the right track?

What are your suggestions to improve the same in the present scenario?

Tourism in Karnataka has a long way to go, it’s Heritage, temples, wildlife and hill stations are yet to be marketed in the right direction. Karnataka as a state should be aggressive and visible in all the travel platforms. We do see a lot of backpackers and last minute local travelers but yet to see good flourish of clients / guests across the nation and globe. Chikmagalur is known for its coffee and is a beautiful destination but not many know about its potential and the luxury brands in the destination. Karnataka’s presence and also out of the box marketing strategies have to be implemented to make it a popular state for tourists both domestic and inbound.

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Tell us about your family and their support?

My wife Nisha and we are blessed ❝ with two children, Sneha and Philip.

Nisha works for ASTEN REALTORS as Chief of Marketing & Strategy based in Cochin, my mother lives with them in cochin. My family has been ever supportive and always motivates me to do better.

A word for aspirants/new entrants in the hospitality industry?

Many leave it but hard work and patience is the key to success, you should know your job well, train well and learn!! Not many are gifted by GOD to be original in their expressions and practices.

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News/Hospitality

VITS HOTELS NOW IN AMRITSAR VITS is a chain of luxury business hotels with more than 11 properties across India.

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itizen Hotels has launched VITS Park Maple, its first hotel in Amritsar, which is tactically located near Amritsar Junction Railway Station, adding to the convenience of both business and leisure tourists visiting the holy city.

Announcing the launch, Mr. Vikram Kamat, Managing Director, Vitizen Hotels says “We are delighted to launch our first property in Punjab in the sacred city of Amritsar that would enable us tap the growing potential of tourist inflow. We are extremely

upbeat on the exponential growth prospects in the region”.

The hotel offers 40 well furnished Deluxe and Super Deluxe rooms with a multi-cuisine restaurant, an open air terrace restaurant and a large banquet hall which can board 150 guests.

Mr. G. S. Khurana, Managing Director, VITS Park Maple says, “VITS Park Maple brings fresh flavor to the city’s hospitality landscape that will make every guest’s stay a pleasurable experience”.

We are delighted to launch our first property in Punjab in the sacred city of Amritsar that would enable us tap the growing potential of tourist inflow.

Mr. Vikram Kamat, Managing Director, Vitizen Hotels

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News/AIrline

Save up to half price with oman air pass The Oman Air Pass re-launched with a host of new DESTINATIONS INCLUDING – flights between Oman and other GCC countries and the Indian Subcontinent

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man Air is reintroducing the Oman Air Pass, which must be purchased and used online; it is a simple, convenient and cost-effective way for guests to enjoy their trip with savings up to 50% off.

The Oman Air Pass, delivered by Optiontown, has been re-launched with a host of new destinations included – flights between Oman and other GCC countries and the Indian Subcontinent are all covered and guests will now be able to design a pass which suits their needs.

Passes can be customised for individuals, families, groups of friends or business travellers; with guests being able to select up to 50 listed names. Timings are flexible and flights can be booked from six months to four hours in advance; flights being booked further in advance, receive the greater

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price advantage. The ticket can then be utilized in a time span of one week or up to two years.

Mr. Abdulaziz Al Raisi, Acting Chief Executive Officer, said: “We are very pleased to offer the Oman Air Pass to all our guests. We have spent the last 12

Passes can be customised for individuals, families, groups of friends or business travellers; with guests being able to select up to 50 listed names.

months listening to feedback from both guests and agents and we believe that this flexible product will meet certain requirements and segments which we weren’t previously able to deliver through traditional means.”

Sachin Goel, CEO of Optiontown added: “We are delighted to collaborate with Oman Air on this unique and exciting concept, which demonstrates just how forward-thinking the airline is. We are confident that Oman Air’s customers will be delighted with the results.”

Tickets purchased with Oman Air Pass start from OMR 100 and are subject to availability. A minimum of three flights must be purchased per transaction; upgrades are confirmed from 24 hours before departure and no later than one hour before. Tickets cannot be refunded or changed.

Oman Air wins double at World Travel Awards

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We are very pleased to offer the Oman Air Pass to all our guests.

We have spent the last 12 months listening to feedback from both guests and agents and we believe that this flexible product will meet certain requirements and segments which we weren’t previously able to deliver through traditional means.”

Mr. Abdulaziz Al Raisi, Acting Chief Executive Officer

man Air, the national carrier of the Sultanate of Oman, has been awarded “World’s Leading Airline – Economy Class” at the World Travel Awards. The World Travel Awards were presented at JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay Resort & Spa, Vietnam.

The national carrier was also awarded the ‘World’s Ultimate Service Award in Hospitality’.

The awards were received by Hamad Al Harthy, the Acting Regional Vice President – Far East, on behalf of Oman Air. 2017 has been a stellar year for Oman Air; the airline has been presented with a multitude of awards and accolades from renowned organisations around the globe, including four World Travel Awards.

Earlier this year, Oman Air was named the ‘Middle East’s Leading Airline, Business Class’ and Middle East’s Leading Airline, Economy Class’ in the World Travel Awards Middle East 2017.

Acting CEO of Oman Air Mr. Abdul Aziz Alraisi said: “This is a fantastic way for Oman Air to conclude the year; winning four World Travel Awards, along with various other awards in 2017. These awards set the standards for the travel industry and it is testament of our quality services and product offering that we have consistently been voted the best.

Oman Air is a successful, sustainable company and it is immensely rewarding to be recognised for our unique products and on board experience, in all classes.

Mr. Hamad Al Harthy, the Acting Regional Vice President – Far East receiving the World Travel Award from Mr. Graham Cook, President & Founder WTA on behalf of Oman Air at Emerald Bay, Vietnam

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News/AIrline

Munich’s ‘10-Star’ Hub F

ive-star summit: It’s a combination seen nowhere else in the European airport universe. Back in 2015, Munich Airport became the first European hub to be granted the prestigious status of “Five-Star Airport” by the London-based Skytrax Institute.

Now Lufthansa has followed as Europe’s first and – to date – only five-star airline.

Skytrax awarded Lufthansa the highest possible rating in the international aviation world at the beginning of December. And those are not the only top honors: Terminal 2 and the satellite terminal operated

by Munich Airport and Lufthansa received a very special honor in March, earning the “world’s best terminal” title in the annual Skytrax rankings. Wilken Bormann, the CEO of Lufthansa’s Munich Hub Operations, joined Munich Airport CEO Dr. Michael Kerkloh in welcoming the latest honor: “Together with Munich Airport, we offer our customers a 10-star product that represents excellent quality on the ground and on board.”

The coveted awards are granted in

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recognition of the premium service and outstanding comfort that make every trip through Munich a unique experience. The citation makes special mention of the atmosphere and comfort in the terminal and the remarkable hospitality of the employees. Terminal 2 and the satellite facility score high marks for the extensive range of services and easy navigation. With relaxation zones, shops and restaurants covering a total area of more than 25,000 square meters, complemented by 11 very pleasant Lufthansa lounges – including two first-class lounges with exclusive service – Terminal 2 offers outstanding comfort and convenience.

For passengers changing planes in

Munich, Terminal 2 makes the process quick and easy. Passengers only have to change levels once to catch their connecting flights.

And when they leave Terminal 2, passengers have five-star service and maximum comfort awaiting them on board every Lufthansa flight – in all classes. Business class passengers enjoy personalized restaurant service, with changing menus geared to travelers’ preferences. The aircraft flying on intercontinental routes include the advanced Airbus A350, which is currently regarded as the world’s most efficient airliner. Along with quiet engines and outstanding fuel economy, it scores points with very appealing cabin decor and furnishings.

30million

passengers travelled through Terminal 2 (the satellite terminal operated by Munich Airport) for the first time.

SWISS celebrates 10 years of Delhi Zurich route Deep Bajaj triumph the Lufthansa Runway to Success season 5

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he entrepreneurial star Deep Bajaj, Co-Founder, PeeBuddy came out on top amongst the 65,000 most innovative entrepreneurs to emerge as the new face of the Indian entrepreneur by winning the season 5 of Lufthansa Runway to Success.

Deep with her shrewdness, unique vision, determination and passion won the grand prize, which includes sponsorship to a business programme at the prestigious Cambridge University in UK, a Lufthansa Business Class ticket to any destination in Europe as well as a much sought-after mentorship from TiE. Season 5 began with free SME mentorship camps across 9 cities during 2017 that were followed by the second edition of ‘The Start-up Expo’. The expo brought together 13,000 participants, including 30 investors and 7000 start-ups leading to the largest participation the TV series has witnessed.

“Over five consecutive seasons, Lufthansa Runway to Success has grown exponentially to become India’s largest SME stage while adding tremendous value to over 150,000 budding entrepreneurs till date. It also reflected our commitment to India and our continued endeavour to always be ‘More Indian than You Think’”, said Wolfgang Will, Senior Director, South Asia, Lufthansa German Airlines.

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wiss International Air Lines (SWISS), the airline of Switzerland and part of Lufthansa Group completed 10 years of operations on its Delhi - Zurich route on November 25, 2017. The airline celebrated this milestone by hosting a special walk titled ‘The Delhi Seductress’ showcasing Delhi hidden historic and cultural legacy thus underlining its commitment to Delhi. The walk explored the by-lanes of Mehrauli, its multi-faceted history and architecture through visits to mausoleums, step wells as well as several other structures modified during its history. SWISS and experts from Darwesh - a travel and culture studio jointly lead the event.

Mr. Paurus Nekoo, General Manager Sales, India, Lufthansa Group, on behalf of SWISS said, “We are proud to add another milestone to our history with India”. He also added,

“India is a key market for SWISS and over the years we have constantly innovated to elevate travel experience for passengers to and from India. From special meals, Indian flight attendants to Bollywood

India remains key market for SWISS. movies onboard, we are committed to deepen our connect with our customers by extending the very best of Swiss warmth and hospitality onboard.”

SWISS’s inaugural flight LX146 connecting Delhi with Zurich took place a decade ago on November 25, 2007. Delhi became the second destination within India, thus creating history for long haul destinations.

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News/AIrline

Brussels Airlines continues to invest in Mumbai market Mr. Bulat Sarsenbayev, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Kazakhstan to the Republic of India and Mr. Peter Foster, President and CEO Air Astana

AIR ASTANA CELEBRATES 13 YEARS CONNECTING INDIA AND EURASIA

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azakhstan’s Skytrax awardwinning full-service carrier Air Astana celebrated 13 years of connecting India to Kazakhstan and Eurasia.

Mr. Peter Foster, President and Chief Executive Officer of Air Astana said, “India is an important destination for Air Astana’s network. We are proud to have played a significant role in connecting business as well as leisure passengers from Kazakhstan to India over the past 13 years.

He added “we are proud to add New Delhi to our growing network of flights to global capitals. New Delhi is a great new destination for us and we expect to carry both business travellers and holidaymakers between the two capitals, and also between India and cities in Russia and other countries on our network to and from Astana.”

Air Astana commenced operations to India in 2004 with flights between Almaty and New Delhi. Today, the airline operates 10 flights between Kazakhstan and India each week, including a daily service between Almaty and New Delhi and three frequencies between Astana and New Delhi. Air Astana launched direct flights from Astana, the capital of Kazakhstan, to the capital of India, New Delhi, on 2 July

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he Brussels Airlines increases its flight offer from, 5 to 6 weekly flights during the winter season, offering more flexibility and choice to and from the Indian metropolis. Since opening a direct flight connection between Brussels and Mumbai last March, Brussels Airlines has welcomed over 60,000 travelers on its flights and notes increasingly satisfying results on the new route. Brussels Airlines participated in the Belgian Royal State Visit to India and partners up with other Belgian organizations to organize a dance event at the Gateway of India.

On March 30, Brussels Airlines inaugurated its direct flights between Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji airport and Brussels Aiport and has since seen its results on the route growing more and more. After a positive 7-month period with an average seat load factor of almost 80%, the airline has decided to invest even more in the route, by adding an extra flight, bringing the total to 6 flights per week.

Mr. Bernard Gustin, CEO of Brussels Airlines, said, “ Adding this 6th weekly flight confirms our investment in the Indian market. We are therefore very happy to participate to the Belgian Royal State Visit here in Mumbai. With this

spectacular event at the iconic gate of India, we are proud to bring the best of Belgium to India and to emphasize on the importance of the economic bonds between our two countries.”

Our new service received a warm welcome here in the Indian market and we are very happy with the results.

Mr. Bernard Gustin, CEO, Brussels Airlines

News/AIrline

SriLankan touches Cloud 9 in December 2017

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n the 38-year history of SriLankan Airlines achieved the highest ever monthly revenue in the airline where monthly operating revenue reached this landmark figure in December 2017. The air-transport operation of the SriLankan recorded a stand-alone revenue of US Dollar 100.1 million – the first instance in the 38-year history of the airline where monthly operating revenue reached this landmark figure.

The airline attributes the increase in revenue to its expanded network and continuous improvement in revenue management processes. A total of 566,627 passengers were carried during the month, a 27% increase over December 2016 and recorded a Passenger Load Factor of 85.9% - above that of most major airlines in the world. Cargo carriage too witnessed a significant growth, rising 23% year-over-year to 12,016 metric tonnes.

The airline’s newly launched route to Melbourne, Australia, was a resounding success – achieving a Passenger Load Factor of 92.4% - and recording a significant overall profit during the month.

This makes Melbourne the first longhaul route launch of the airline in recent years to reach profitability in such a short

period.

The airline also recorded a successful month in terms of operational efficiency, recording an average aircraft utilization of 13.8 hours per day. The wide-bodied fleet of Airbus A330 aircraft achieved an average daily utilization of 15.2 hours – with industry leading reliability. The airline’s strategy of re-fleeting with fuelefficient “single aisle” aircraft paid off, with its five-strong fleet of Airbus A320neo family aircraft helping to combat rising fuel costs. Two days of un-forecast fog in the Gulf were the only blight on the

month, leading to several delays due to aircraft diversions.

SriLankan Airline’s subsidiary and business units – including SriLankan Catering and Ground Handling – too recorded a stellar performance, comfortably exceeding their revenue and profitability in comparison to the prior year. The Ground Handling division did particularly well, both financially and operationally, despite have to cope with record numbers of passengers, congested facilities at BIA and unusually high disruptions due to inclement weather.

Ms. Tu Thuy Ha, Sales Director, Vector Aviation, General Sales Agent, SriLankan Airlines receiving the World’s Leading Airline to the Indian Ocean on behalf of SriLankan Airlines from Mr Graham Cooke, President & Founder, World Travel Awards

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India Outbound/Destination

Visit Indonesia wooes Indian Travellers 271,252 Indian Travellers visited Indonesia in 2015 and 2016 witnessed a steep increased to 376,802. Almost 500,000 tourists has already experienced Indonesian hospitality in 2017

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Mr. Maheswar, Tamil Nadu Travel Mart Society and Mrs. Devaki Thiyagarajan, Managing Committee Member of Travel Agents Association of India with Mr. I Gde Pitana, Deputy of Tourism Marketing Development of Indonesia Tourism and Mr. Sanjay Sondhi, Country Manager VITO-India at Chennai Road show.

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ndian tourist visits continue to rise in Indonesia. Ministry of Tourism, Government of Indonesia is determined to keep the momentum and organised Coordination and Synchronization Activities in Tourism Program for Indian Market on 29th December 2017 in Chennai, India.

In the last three years, Indian tourists visiting Indonesia have significantly increased. 2015 registered 271,252 visitors, and in the following year the numbers steeply increased to 376,802 travelers.

Meanwhile, in 2017 is approaching 500,000 tourists.

The main objective was to share the actual and factual conditions of tourism in Indonesia especially Bali after the eruption of Mount Agung and the image of tourism program in 2018, represented by Mr. I Gde Pitana, Deputy of Tourism Marketing

INDIAN TOURISTS LOVES INDONESIA FOR ITS RICH, exotic and unique culture Development and Mr. Sanjay Sondhi, Country Manager VITO-India,.

More than just looking at Hindu cultural heritage, Indian tourists can see the beauty of the beach and the mesmerizing sea “10 New Bali Destinations” such as the Komodo Island of East Nusa Tenggara, the splendor of the UNESCO cultural area of Borobudur Temple in Magelang and various other natural wonders of the Indonesian archipelago.

Indian tourist loves exotic destinations in Indonesia with its rich, exotic and unique culture. There is a close cultural nexus between the two countries that works as a magnet of tourism.

Indonesia, a Southeast Asian nation made up of thousands of volcanic islands, is home to hundreds of ethnic groups speaking many different languages. It’s known for beaches, volcanoes, Komodo dragons and jungles sheltering elephants, orangutans and tigers. On the island of Java lies Indonesia’s vibrant, sprawling capital, Jakarta, and the city of Yogyakarta, known for gamelan music and traditional puppetry.

Must vist places

Bromo Mountain, Komodo Island, South Sumatra, Jampit Coffee Plantations, Ijen Crater, Bawean Treasure Island, Orangutan Destination

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feature/INCREDIBLE India Outbound/Destination INDIA

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Tourism India January 2018

y e l r a M b Bo the world will celebrate the 26th birthday of the legendary singer Bob Marley in Negril

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elebrate the birthday month of legendary singer Bob Marley, the world ambassador of Reggae beats in the “Home of All Right”! February marks the onset of the annual Reggae Month that traditionally kicks starts with the joyous “Bob Marley Birthday Bash” at Jamaica.

Jamaicans along with visitors from around the world will celebrate the 26th birthday of the King of Reggae in Negril, the week-long festivities would feature a taste of authentic Jamaican culture, through energetic Music and Live Performances, delectable Caribbean Food, Creative Art Expressions and much more. In the honour of Bob Marley Birthday Bash, top International artists,

recognized worldly, for their rhythms of pulsating reggae music, would charm the islands’ vibe, which undoubtedly have their roots in Jamaica.

The Jamaica Reggae Industry Association would be extending the week long celebration to a full month party, a dedication to the much-loved style of Reggae. Everyday there will be electrifying live music, dancehall concerts, and weekly discussions, expos and awards nights. A walkthrough the Reggae Village at Ranny Williams Entertainment Centre and a visit to Bob Marley Museum, which is his former place of residence, would be a delightful one for the visitors.

Although Jamaica is known for its’

year-round celebratory ambiance, but, Reggae is the island’s spirit, that one will find in every shade of this beautiful Caribbean Island! Come and discover the purest form of reggae music, this February, at the 11th staging of Reggae month, only in “Home of Reggae”.

The week-long festivities would feature a taste of authentic Jamaican culture, through energetic Music and Live Performances, delectable Caribbean Food, Creative Art Expressions and much more.

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Maldiv

India Outbound/Destination

the title of World’s Leading Honeymoon and Di Maldives opened up a fresh chapter of new goals and accomplishments for the New Year.

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aldives once again won the prestigious International Awards for the World’s Leading Honeymoon Destination and World’s leading Dive Destination at the 24th annual World Travel Awards and Indian Ocean’s Best Spa Destination at the 3rd annual World Spa Awards held alongside with the World Travel Awards Grand Finale.

Along with the destination awards, the Maldives Tourism Industry also won 10 prestigious awards in various categories at the event and competed against other world class destinations such as

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Thailand, Hawaii, Mauritius, Australia, Seychelles, USA and UAE for these titles.

Mr Haris Mohamed, Acting Managing Director of Maldives Marketing and PR Corporation

Maldives Tourism Industry won 10 prestigious awards in various categories

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Dive Destination collected the award at the gala event that took place at JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay in Vietnam. Mr. Haris Mohamed said “Maldives is thrilled and excited to have won these prestigious awards.

Winning these awards shows the visitors’ admiration to what the Maldives has to offer.

We must work hard to retain and maintain our position globally.”

Oscar’s of the travel industry, World Travel Awards is recognized globally as the ultimate hallmark of quality, with winners setting the benchmark to which all others aspire. Winning these awards will indeed enhance the image of the destination as a high profile luxury destination.

Mr Haris Mohamed, Acting Managing Director, Maldives Marketing & Public Relations Corporation welcoming Ms. Georgina Holbrook, British nationality at Male International Airport

Mr. Haris Mohamed, Acting Managing Director, Maldives Marketing & Public Relations Corporation receiving the award from Mr Graham Cooke, President & Founder, World Travel Awards

Maldives Welcomes the First Visitor of 2018

World Travel Awards 2017

Leading Water Villa Resort Sun Aqua Vilu Reef, Maldives Leading Dive Resort Constance Moofushi, Maldives Leading Seaplane Operator Trans Maldivian Airways Leading Resort Design The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort Leading Underwater Hotel Restaurant Sea @ Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas Most Romantic Resort Baros Maldives

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aldives warmly welcomes the first visitor of 2018, Ms. Georgina Holbrook, British nationality who arrived with her family on FlyDubai flight. At a media event held at Velana International Airport Ms. Georgina was welcomed by the officials of Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC), together with the Ministry of Tourism, Maldives Airports Company (MACL) and representatives of Maldives Tourism industry. The event started with the stamping of the first visitor by the Maldives Immigration.

Maldives opened up a fresh chapter of new goals and accomplishments for the New Year.

Over the previous year’s several events have been concluded successfully which included welcoming the first visitor, 500K visitor the 750K visitor and One millionth visitor.

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India Outbound/Hospitality

GREECE- Karma’s new European base with RCI

Karma Group offers an enhanced experience to RCI members by sharing special offers and promotions through their own network

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CI designated Karma Group to govern its operations in the Greek market. Karma Group recently acquired office space in Athens from RCI, making it Karma’s new European base. The arrangement will see the office run under the RCI banner, maintaining their internationally recognised standards, while utilizing Karma Group’s expertise in the hospitality market, their fast growing clientbase and exceptional reputation in this sector.

Mr. John Spence, Chairman and Founder of Karma Group, said that, “The Greek Islands have become our European heartland. Beyond the physical beauty of the islands, we have established a fantastic rapport with the people who live and visit here, whether as timeshare owners or holiday makers. This collaboration between Karma Group and RCI also ultimately benefits our loyal clients, as we continue to create new opportunities throughout the world.”

As part of the new relationship, Karma will fully service and manage existing and new RCI memberships in the Greek market and manage booking exchanges for Greek RCI Members on RCI’s behalf. Karma Group offers an enhanced experience to RCI members by sharing special offers and promotions through their own network, opening up a world of extraordinary experiences and exclusive curated entertainment in the world’s most beautiful locations.

Mr. Dimitris Manikis, VP Business Development Europe, Middle East &

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Poolside view of Karma Group hotel.

Africa commented, “RCI and Karma Group have enjoyed a working relationship for over 25 years. Both companies recognise that Greece is an important tourist destination and with this new collaboration RCI Greek members are now able to interact and book their vacation in their national language.”

This collaboration between Karma Group and RCI also ultimately benefits our loyal clients.

Mr. John Spence, Chairman and Founder of Karma Group

India Outbound/News

New identity for Monaco Tourism Monaco Tourist and Convention Authority unveiled new visual identity with dynamic typology.

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onaco Tourist and Convention Authority (DTC) presented its new visual identity, “Visit Monaco,” to more than 350 tourism professionals in the Principality at its annual conference.

This new, dynamic typology is in line with the mission of Monaco Tourist and Convention Authority, as the text logo is a direct invitation to visit the Principality and is easy to identify and to remember. It is available in several colours, to suit the DTC’s various sectors of activity, for example in blue for cruises and green for sustainable development.

The presentation on the new

version of the web site visitmonaco. com was also there. The website has been redesigned to give pride of place to images and experience and showcase new innovative tools such as the augmented reality plan and an interactive video project that will allow visitors to create paperless, personalized itineraries. The site will be put online soon.

At the conference, there was a particular emphasis on responsible tourism, which is central to all future activities. This new strategy will revolve around the slogan “Green is the New Glam”, which will be used in all International tourism markets and promotional material.

Monaco celebrates New Year with Karan Johar

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he Monaco Government Tourist and Convention Bureau brought in 2018 with an emphatic bang at a spectacular event that featured Bollywood’s gamechanging icon, Karan Johar.

The dazzling event was the culmination of Karan’s visit and photo shoot in Monaco for the cover of a life style magazine.

He unveiled the cover of the magazine and also talked about the business of entertainment.

Rajeev Nangia, Director-India, Monaco Government Tourist Bureau said, “Destination Monaco takes immense pride and happiness in having the invite accepted by the star entrepreneur Karan Johar to the illuminated world of glamorous dreams.

We thank Karan for sharing his Monaco memories with the world since his visit!”

Mr. Karan Johar and Mr. Rajeev Nangia, DirectorIndia, Monaco Government Tourist Bureau with other dignitaries during the New Year celebrations

January 2018 Tourism India

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India Outbound/Destination

POLAND

THE MAGIC OF LIVING HISTORY FOR YOUR LITTLE ONES!

POLAND IS MAGICAL CHARMING BREATHTAKING AND A GOLDMINE OF HISTORY AND HERITAGE- PERFECT DESTINATION FOR FAMILY VACATION

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agical, charming, breathtaking and a goldmine of history and heritage; think of Poland, and you’ll immediately think of regal medieval castles, fascinating Renaissance architecture, towering mountains carpeted with lush forests,

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colourful old market towns and a deep-rooted history.

Though it may not be on everybody’s bucket list, Poland makes for quite the perfect destination for a family vacation. So check out all the amazing things you can do when here.

Warsaw

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hile Warsaw has had quite a checkered history, it still makes for an amazing family vacation. Starting with the Copernicus Science Centre and the Zoological Gardens, these two destinations will be an amazing learning experience for your children. Following this, you can take a stroll around the Old Town and explore the iconic landmarks of the city, from the Royal Castle to the Cathedral and the Mermaid Statue, followed by a walk along Krakowskie Przedmieście and Nowy Świat streets, packed with colourful shops and charming cafes. Next, you can visit the tallest building in Poland, the Palace of Culture and Science, and admire a fantastic panorama of the city, ending with a visit to museums like the National Museum with its impressive Faras Gallery or the Warsaw Rising Museum, a rare chance for your little ones to understand the identity of the city.

Kraków

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city founded on legends and fairytales, Kraków mix of old-world charm, eccentric sights, a hobbit aura and grand architectural wonders. Here you can roam around the huge, 13th century square and the ancient churches, explore the Wawel Royal Castle, a sight

that would have looked right at home in Narnia, go crazy with the underground eateries and innumerable chocolate shops (with bunnies the size of spaniels), and a footbridge to which lovers have attached thousands of padlocks.

You can also explore the unique Wieliczka deep salt mine, a world of pits and chambers, where everything is hand-carved from salt blocks, Schindler’s Factory, an interactive museum showcasing the German occupation of Kraków and the Rynek Underground, an underground route through medieval market stalls and other long-forgotten chambers.

Wroclaw

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ituated on the banks of the Odra river, Wroclaw is a charming little city, and an excellent history lesson, with more than a hundred bridges, ancient architecture, numerous Renaissance mansions flanked by gas streetlamps that are still lit by hand each night and, the biggest draw for kids, a secret population of tiny dwarf statues.

While here, your little ones can have the best time by going dwarf hunting with a handy map, or visiting the beautiful Botanical Gardens. You can also explore the Wroclaw Zoo, the oldest and largest in Poland, dig for gold at the Zloty Stok, a 1000-year-old gold and arsenic

mine with its own treasury, the charming, medieval market square and the numerous museums, including the Military Museum, the Museum of Architecture and the Museum of Bourgeois Art.

Lublin

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thriving cultural and academic town, Lublin is the perfect destination for a family vacation! While this charming little town is not very high on most travellers’ lists, it’s a priceless treasure trove of local lore, history and heritage, ensuring an amazing experience for your little ones.

Here, you can visit the majestic Lublin Castle and the vibrant Old Town, let your kids roam free through the Fortuna Cellar that’s a mine of historical exhibits, explore the unique open-air Village Museum and end the day with a delicious dinner at any of the numerous restaurants that Lublin‘s famous for.

“Exploring a thousand years of twists and turns, histories and stories and culinary adventures, means that a trip to Poland will definitely be a unique and fulfilling experience,” says Viren Batra, co-founder of Nirvana Travel. “And while it’s not your typical family destination, it definitely warrants a place on your bucket list, only for the myriad lives, experiences and sights you’ll get to live there.”

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Art adventures New Zealand

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Gibbs Farm Sculpture Park,

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Auckland rapped around the ever-changing Kaipara Harbour, this lavish private collection of outdoor art includes major works

by Ralph Hotere, Chris Booth and Anish Kapoor, all assembled by philanthropist art patron Alan Gibbs. You’ll need at least three hours to do Gibbs Farm and its artworks any sort of justice. This 405ha folly features rolling green hills sliding down to the sea, and sheep, yaks, buffaloes and giraffes live among the art. The unique art experience is closed in winter. And be prepared: there’s a lot of ground to cover, but not a lot of shelter.

The Park is 40 minutes’ drive north of Auckland and is available to view by prior appointment only. One needs to carry good walking shoes, food and drink along. Planning well ahead is essential. Popular nearby attractions include Parakai Springs Hot Pools and Kaipara Cruises, as well as the quaint town of Helensville with its railway museum and Regent Cinema second-hand shop. The fabulous Kaipara Coast Sculpture Gardens is an easier-to-access option if Gibbs Farm proves too tricky.

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2

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Connells Bay Sculpture Park,

Waiheke Island happy marriage of art, nature and scenery, this Waiheke Island wonderland features a range of charming spaces with sculptures created with the site in mind. With permanent and short-term sculptures on display, you will delight at the works – and the beautiful location. You’ll also be thrilled to learn there is a cottage available to rent – a beautifully appointed, historic two-bedroom guesthouse. John and Jo Gow – long renowned for their generous support of the arts – are the philanthropic local couple behind this magnificent labour of love.

Dreamy Waiheke Island is 40 minutes from downtown Auckland by ferry with the many attractions vying for your attention including a variety of vineyards, restaurants and cafés, electric bike hire, zip-lining, kayak tours, walks and some gorgeous beaches where you can peacefully while away the hours.

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Matakana’s Sculptureum,

Auckland he freshly minted Sculptureum in Matakana might be a newcomer to the art scene, but it is home to an outstandingly impressive private collection. You’ll find the works of Cézanne, Chagall and Rodin on display. When owners Anthony and Sandra Grant opened their property to the public, they described it as “art entertainment”. With three sculpture gardens and six galleries to browse around, you’ll be glad to know there’s also Rothko, a restaurant and bar that’s the perfect environment for refueling and reflecting.

Matakana village is close enough to Auckland to be accessible yet far enough away to feel removed from city life. There’s a popular farmers’ market on Saturday mornings and artisan shops. Several beautiful beaches are nearby. Bike and surfboard hire are available, as is the delicious homemade ice-cream at Oob Organic Berries.

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ncredible collections of art in some stunning locations are what New Zealand offer visitors, from grand-scale art in parks to making movie magic, a range of exclusive artistic and cultural experiences. With companies offering tours with a fine art focus, or boutique accommodation set within sculpture parks, one can find all manner of up market art experiences in Aotearoa.

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Hands-on at Weta Workshop,

Wellington

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he home of New Zealand moviemaking magic, Weta Workshop is director Sir Peter Jackson’s special-effects and Props Company in the Wellington seaside suburb of Miramar. The workshop tours are open to the public, giving film fans a behind-the-scenes look at the SFX techniques and gadgetry used on some of the world’s best-loved films, including The Lord of the Rings, King Kong and Thunderbirds Are Go. This may just whet your appetite, which is where the “hands-on” workshops come in. Tutorials on everything from creating fake blood to making chainmail will fascinate, stimulate and inspire.

The suburb of Miramar has come into its own since Sir Peter arrived and offers a range of delicious eateries – plus the Art Deco splendour of the Roxy Cinema.

It’s also a popular bike-riding destination – explore Scorching, Shelly and Karaka Bays on two wheels if you’re after a little seaside action. The Massey Memorial (a 10-minute walk from Shelly Bay Road) is the spot for panoramic views.

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Bespoke Fine Art Tours,

Auckland & Wellington

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f you’re not sure what art or cultural experience is best for you, why not ask Fine Art Tours (in Auckland or Wellington) to create a tailor-made art itinerary? Whether your interests are in contemporary art, fashion, performing arts, gardens, local history, hands-on workshops or wine and food – a bespoke tour (designed with small groups in mind) can be arranged to fit your time and tastes.

As well as access to some phenomenal private collections, Fine Art Tours offers

an impressive range of guides, with a pool that includes academics, art historians and culinary connoisseurs.

Visitors to Auckland or Wellington should make time to explore the museums in both cities – the waterside Te Papa in Wellington and the Auckland War Memorial Museum in the garden surrounds of the Domain. The Auckland Art Gallery and City Gallery Wellington are also world-class and not to be missed.

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India Outbound/Destination

Fun & Frolic kids destinations Starting with Prague and ending at South Africa, here are the amazing, yet largely unexplored, destinations you can plan for in 2018.

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ravelling with your little ones would be exciting but at the same time frustrating, the trick to tame the situation is to pick the right destination. When the destination itself is interesting, unique and full of happening activities, half the battle is won right there. So starting with Prague and ending at South Africa, here are the amazing, yet largely unexplored, destinations you can plan for in 2018.

A European hotspot and full of charming little lanes and alleyways, Prague is a treasure trove of ancient architecture, brilliant art galleries, exciting neighborhoods and unique sights such as the Lego museum, coupled with a quaint fairytale ambience. Here, your little ones can befriend the animals at the famous Prague zoo, explore the Petřín, the classic outdoor play area, with a host of exciting sights for little eyes, go for a joy-ride on one of the many trams, experience kiddie nirvana at the Toy

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Museum and experience the best of international cuisine.

Let your little ones’ history books come to life with a tour of the magnificent Colosseum, at Italy, the legendary ruins of Pompeii and the awe-inspiring Leaning Tower of Pisa.

In this fabulously beautiful country, you and your little ones can explore subterranean ruins, breathtaking seaside scapes and towns, gladiator battlefields, thermal pools, coastal caves and so much more. You can also climb a volacano in Sicily or Naples, go on a behind-the-scenes tour of an authentic pizzeria or enjoy a peaceful Venetian boatride.

Complete with cultural riches, endless feasts, spectacular landscapes and an unending style quotient, Italy is definitely a destination you cannot ignore.

If Europe is already off your bucket list though, and if you’re in the mood for something more offbeat and exciting, then check out the

While making travel plans the first thing that comes to our mind is, what would work best for our little ones.

Viren Batra, Co-founder, Nirvana Travel

Most of the time, we tend to go with tried and tested options that we know will work, and keep back from experimenting.

But when you know the best child-friendly destinations, then nothing can stop you other-worldly sights of Iceland. Right from the smoking geysers, bubbling mud pots, gigantic waterfalls, live volcanoes, thermal pools and the amazing Northern Lights, Iceland is the perfect option for some unique family fun.

For little ones fascinated by fairytales and magic, the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Studios, Florida or Disney World is where you should be. Step into majestic Hogwarts, explore Hogsmeade village, enter the magical

Diagon Alley, dine at the Leaky Cauldron, ride the thrilling rides at Disney’s Magic Kingdom or have the time of your life at the Animal Kingdom and Hollywood Studios.

Now give your kids a chance to experience life as a Viet Cong soldier at the Cu Chi Tunnels, Vietnam and enjoy the vibrant fruit orchards, coconut farms and honey bee hives of the Mekong Delta, get a taste of a bygone era at Angkor Wat and explore the charming lanes and quaint shops of Hanoi.

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Open to the New Shades Bloggers can share their experiences in Thailand with a real sense of passion and thus inspire their audiences to visit the kingdom

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he Tourism Authority of Thailand’s (TAT) new communication concept of ‘Open to the New Shades’ is the focus of the eagerly awaited third edition of the TAT Newsroom Blogger Thailand 2018 competition, for which blogs and photos can be submitted from 1 January 2018.

Mr. Yuthasak Supasorn, TAT Governor said: “Bloggers can share their experiences in Thailand with a real sense of passion and thus inspire their audiences to visit the kingdom.

This is a trend we very much support, in the way it can show the world’s travellers there is so much to see and do in ‘Amazing Thailand’ either for the first time or from a new perspective.”

Bloggers entering the 3rd TAT Newsroom Blogger Thailand competition can find plenty of inspiration in the ‘Open to the New Shades’ concept, in preparing their

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submissions.

This could be in the area of Gastronomy, for example, in which Thailand serves up an endless array of experiences from delicious street food to fine-dining restaurants to cooking classes to intriguing food tours. Arts and Crafts are another element of the new communication campaign, with local wisdom, fascinating festivals and world-class artisans to be found throughout Thailand.

In terms of Nature and Beaches, Thailand offers outstanding natural sites and stunning landscapes from the North to the South and West to East. Culture is another fascinating area in which bloggers are presented with endless opportunities to discover new perspectives of Thailand, whether in the area of religion, sports or the arts for example, or to build on memorable experiences enjoyed on earlier visits.

Bloggers can submit their entries to the 3rd TAT Newsroom Blogger Thailand competition between 1 January and 15 February, 2018.

The voting period is from 1 January to 15 March, 2018 The winners’ announcement to be made in the last week of March.

India Outbound/Events News

Taiwan Lantern Festival Representing the upcoming Year of the Dog in the Chinese zodiac, a beagle-inspired handheld lantern was unveiled for the Lantern Festival 2018.

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epresenting the upcoming Year of the Dog in the Chinese zodiac, a beagle-inspired handheld lantern was unveiled for the Lantern Festival 2018. The lantern is designed in the shape of man’s best friend and is replete with interesting features like long ears that “flap” when the lantern moves and a special belly that casts a paw-shaped shadow.

The way the ears are attached to the head ensures they flap whenever the lantern is carried, said lantern designer Lin Chia-wei. “There are also hollow cuts of paws on the dog’s belly, creating cute paw shadows on the ground,” he added.

The lantern is named Dali, which means “robust” in mandarin and represents a good omen for the New Year, said central government Tourism Bureau Director-General Chou Yunghui.

The lanterns are also decorated with iconic images of Chiayi County, where the annual festival will be held from

100,000 The lantern is designed in the shape of man’s best friend and is replete with interesting features like long ears that “flap” when the lantern moves and a special belly that casts a paw-shaped shadow.

lanterns will be handed out in total in front of Chiayi County government and Chiayi Bus Station from Feb. 16 to March 11 January 2018 Tourism India

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India Outbound/Events News

Starting from 1990, the Tourism Bureau integrated civilian and local governmental resources to conduct the event to celebrate the Lantern Festival and the end of the Chinese New Year.

The purpose of the festival is to spread the traditional folklore. It is also known as the Yuan Xiao Festival.

Fengpao is the ceremony to start to burn thousands of soaring firecrackers hung on a five to twenty-five meters high wooden stand. This ceremony starts from six o’clock in the afternoon until five o’clock in the morning.

Thousands of people and visitors attend the ceremony.

The festival is the most important annual lantern festival in Taiwan.

Prior to 2001, the event was held at Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Park in Taipei. Since 2001, the event has toured Taiwan.

Mr. Chou Yung-hui, Director-General of Taiwan Tourism Bureau with teammates and childen participating the Taiwan Lantern Festival

March 2-11. These include Alishan forest railway, art works from the Southern Branch of the National Palace Museum and aboriginal totems.

About 100,000 lanterns will be handed out in total in front of Chiayi County government and Chiayi Bus Station from Feb. 16 to March 11, 2,000 every week day and 5,000 on Saturdays and Sundays. In addition to handheld lanterns, there will also be a 21-meter high main lantern featuring an aboriginal child and a Taiwan Dog, which will be displayed at the venue

in Taibao City. The main lantern will feature 4D visual effects for the first time, with a special refraction cover improving light penetration by 70 percent.

More than 20,000 light circuits will enable LED lights in the lantern to show images made up of at least 12 million pixels. Furthermore, as the central-southern county is located on the Tropic of Cancer, there will be projections of latitudes and longitudes in the sky to make the event even more unique, the bureau said.

Edited, Printed and Published by Ravisankar K V on behalf of TOURISM INDIA PUBLICATIONS PVT LTD, SEKT 52, Tourism House, Thamarakulam Lane, Sasthamangalam P O, Trivandrum, Kerala, India 695010. Printed at Orange Digital Offset Printers , Industrial Estate, Veli, Trivandrum for Arsha Offset Graphix, Janvilla Lane, Sasthamangalam PO, Trivandrum 695010 Editor: Ravisankar K V

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