February2017

Corporate

February 2017 • VOLUME 6 • ISSUE 2 • ` 50

Kenya

Make your honeymoon a memorable one!

Jaisalmer Padhaaro Saa!

Come a tourist, leave a friend!

Expedition to the Everest Base Camp

February 2017 | Corporate Outbound 1

Contents

28 Other Stories

Managing Editor: Anurag Gupta Editorial: Garima Singhal Marketing: Don Jose Creative: Raj Toppo Printed, Published & Owned by Anurag Gupta @ 348, Amarjyoti Layout, Domlur Bangalore - 560 071 Ph: +91 80 41224331 Email: corporateoutbound@gmail.com Printed at Cosmos Printers & Publishers, Wilson Garden, Bangalore - 560 027

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Aviation News

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State Tourism News

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Dubai Business Events- There is a lot more in Dubai

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Jaisalmer Padhaaro Saa! Come a tourist, leave a friend!

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Enterprising Travel Agents Association (ETAA) organises its first event in East India

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Kenya Make your honeymoon a memorable one!

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Savour Corner

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12 Expedition to the Everest Base Camp 2 Corporate Outbound | February 2017

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Buzz

Aviation

AirAsia India to fly to Srinagar, Darjeeling soon

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ow cost carrier Air Asia announced that it would operate a daily service from New Delhi to Srinagar and Bagdogra soon. Bookings for the two destinations have already been opened with fares to Srinagar at Rs 1999 and to Bagdogra at Rs 2499. In addition to these two cites , the airline will fly to 13 destinations including Bengaluru, Chandigarh, Goa, Guwahati, Hyderabad, Imphal, Jaipur, Kochi, and Vizag with New Delhi as its northern and Bengaluru as its southern hubs.

Jet Airways launches its direct Mangaluru – Delhi flight

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et Airways will introduce a new daily service between Mangaluru and New Delhi, offering business travellers from the South Indian port city and commercial hub, seamless connectivity with the national capital.

The new daily flight, being introduced with effect from January 16, 2017, will also connect Mangaluru to a whole host of destinations across North, Northeast India and even internationally, via New Delhi, further bolstering the airline’s already extensive service network. In fact, guests from Mangaluru will be able to enjoy one-stop connectivity to cities such as Chandigarh, Amritsar, Dehradun, Jaipur, Jodhpur, Lucknow, Varanasi, Patna and Guwahati.

The new flight also links Mangaluru to key international business centres such as London, Amsterdam, Singapore and Hong Kong and popular tourist destinations such as Bangkok, Kathmandu and Dhaka through New Delhi.As part of the launch, Jet Airways is offering an attractive, inaugural one– way Economy fare of INR 4929 and a special, return fare of INR 9,698 from Mangaluru-Delhi-Mangaluru.

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Get set to fly at subsidised air fares to small cities soon

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irports in smaller cities are likely to run operational soon as government has received 45 proposals from 11 bidders to initiate aviation services from around 190 airports on the regional route map.

Airports in cities like Jaisalmer, Ratnagiri, Dehradun, Shimla and Tirupati, so far not covered by airlines. are expected to start soon.

Fares on these routes will be capped at Rs 2,500 for one-hour flights. The government will subsidise passenger fares on these routes through viability gap funding (VGF) to airlines along with a host of tax benefits and waiver of airport charges.

Air India introduces female-only rows to tackle harassment

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ir India started its service on internal flights and roll it out across the network throughout the year.

India’s national airline will designate two rows on every flight as female-only.Air India made the announcement after two incidents in the past month of men allegedly groping cabin staff or other passengers. The service, which will come at no extra charge, will start this week on internal flights, and be rolled out across the network throughout the year.

Air India announces domestic & overseas expansion plan for 2017

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ir India plans to add two new international destinations to its portfolio and increase frequencies on popular domestic routes like Nagpur, Ahmedabad, Chandigarh and Leh till July 2017. Air India shall start direct flight operations on Delhi-Washington-Delhi route in July 2017. This flight will be the fifth direct connection with the US. Furthermore, in order to establish connectivity with the Scandinavian countries, flag carrier will commence a direct non-stop flight to Copenhagen, the capital of Denmark in May 2017.

Air India is also looking to connect Bangkok by direct flights from Chandigarh and Kolkata. In India,the carrier will add a direct flight to Port Blair from Delhi. It will also add second frequency on Delhi-Nagpur-Delhi, fourth frequency on Delhi-Ahmedabad-Delhi sector in March 2017 and second frequency on Delhi-Leh-Delhi sector in the month of May.

T1 to upgrade: fly to other metros from Delhi's T2

Singapore Airlines plans to deploy A350 to India this year

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fter becoming the first airline to bring the world’s largest commercial aircraft A380 to The two-engine A350 is the most modern aircraft currently in operation and equipped to fly to long-haul destinations. The aircraft offers 42 Business Class seats, 24 Premium Economy and 187 Economy Class seats.Currently, Singapore Airlines connects to six cities in India namely Mumbai (17 weekly flights), Delhi (two daily flights), Bengaluru (12 weekly flights), Chennai (10 times a week), Ahmedabad (3 weekly flights) and Kolkata (daily).

Singapore Airlines started inducting A380 to its fleet in 2007 and has been receiving good response for its A380 aircraft.

The airline started operating A380 to India in May 2014 to Mumbai and Delhi. This year, Singapore Airlines will be celebrating 70 year of operations. The airline is progressively retrofitting its fleet with Premium Economy on all aircraft.

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liers to Mumbai, Bengaluru and Kolkata from Delhi airport will have to go to Terminal -2 to board flights for the expansion work to be started at the terminal I soon.

According to the plan T1 area would be increased to 133000 sqm from 53000 sqm and would be able to handle 23 million passengers. 10 aerobridges would be constructed and the number of boarding gates would be increased from eight to 25. Other low cost domestic carriers would be shifted to Terminal 1 after the expansion. Once T4 is constructed, full service domestic operations of Jet Airways and Air India and other such airlines will be shifted there and T3 would be only for international flights.

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State Tourism News

Maharashtra places Koyana on tourism map

New Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation application offers e-wallet service

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aharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis having announced 2017 as “Visit Maharashtra” year, as part of the efforts to strengthen tourism economy, the state government’s tourism and hospitality arm, Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC) has introduced Koyana as a new destination in New Mahabaleshwar. MTDC unveiled its plan to boost tourism in Koyana through event-based promotions.

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adies and premium tatkal quota tickets can now be booked using the integrated e-wallet of the new IRCTC mobile application.Current reservation, boarding point change and one-step PIN based secure a login are a few other important features of the app, a latest communication issued by IRCTC to its registered users.'IRCTC Rail Connect', the mobile application can be downloaded by Android users from Google Play. The embedded IRCTC e-wallet option will be the most secure way of payment.

Madame Tussauds, all set to dazzle Delhi!

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ndia prepares for the world’s largest and most renowned entertainment operators – Merlin Entertainments, to open their doors to the most aspiring and awe-inspiring attractions on this planet. Madame Tussauds the legendary wax attraction entertainment hotspot is soon to launch in New Delhi and will be the latest tourist and locals’ experiential zone to be visited.

The dazzling entertainment zone uniquely planned for visitors to interact with their favourite stars and figures of inspiration; is set to launch in early summer of 2017.

Located in the heart of Delhi – Connaught Place at Regal Cinema, the team is thrilled about the exhilarating experience they are about to embark on.

The wax attraction will exhibit over 50 figures from diverse leagues such as History, Sport, Music, Film, and TV. Each wax figure is created with the expertise of over 20 international and local artists working at a time to ensure an authentic visitor experience worth in an excess of ` 1.5 crores each.

Debuted as one-day programme, Koyana Darshan Maha Mahotsav will be extended to three days this year, and will include exhibition and seminars on eco-tourism, leisure and adventure tourism, and tourism and hospitality-related topics.

Jammu to get artificial lake

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ammu will be getting an artificial lake as part of an integrated project executed by the irrigation and flood control department, housing and urban development department and the tourism department. The Jammu Artificial Lake is a multi-phase project involving several departments and executing agencies. 31 barrages are to be constructed by the irrigation and flood control department on river Tawi near Belicharana as part of the Artificial Lake project.

He said out of these, 20 barrages are to be constructed on Nikki Tawi and 11 barrages on Baddi Tawi. Beautification works are also to be carried out along the banks of the River Tawi by the tourism department

CTB collaborates with Thrillophilia to boost Tourism in the State

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hhattisgarh Tourism Board and Thrillophilia have recently signed an MOU and collaborated to promote tourism in Chhattisgarh.

The idea is to digitalize the most unique travel experiences that the state and local tours and activity providers in the state have to offer and promote them across the world via digital channels. The company will make use of its latest and advanced technology framework, thereby enabling the local tour operators and activity providers with inventory and booking management over mobile apps and free listings on platform to boost up bookings from global travellers.

Under the collaboration, the focus areas would also be to impart education and training to all the registered tours and activity providers with Chhattisgarh Tourism Board, on best practices such as online listings, content management, operations, and handling bookings. Thrillophilia will provide them with personal web dashboards and mobile apps to manage their inventory and bookings. Thrillophilia will also lend expertise and strong assistance on the technology front in areas of online payments and bookings, web software application and content management.

Chhattisgarh, the biggest eco-tourism hub, offers a rich cultural heritage, highlighting its exquisite natural beauty and blessed with varied landscapes and travel points. From having exotic wildlife, ancient caves and waterfalls, adventure activities, hill stations, tribal culture, enthralling hill plateaus to being a nature lover’s paradise, the state is full of surprises for travel lovers, with lots of unique tourist destinations.

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Dubai Business EventsThere is a lot more in Dubai

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Steen Jakobsen, Director Dubai Business Events

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ubai Business Events (DBE) – the Official Convention Bureau, aims to further develop and increase Dubai's share of the international business events market in order to grow economic development, jobs and knowledge creation in the Emirate. DBE’s main goal, as a division of Dubai Tourism, is to establish the Emirate as a premier business event destination by helping organizers of international meetings, incentives, congresses and exhibitions plan and manage every aspect of their event.

To know more about Dubai Business events Corporate Outbound spoke to Steen Jakobsen,Director Dubai Business Events. Dubai is primarily a leisure destination for Indians, when asked what he thinks about how well leisure and business events are received by Indian Travellers. He says “In 2015, for the first time, India became Dubai’s number one source market for overnight visitors. Figures released by the Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing reported over 1.58 million visitors had travelled from India to Dubai between January and November 2016, representing an 11% increase in visitors over the same period in 2015. Additionally, when we look at the number of visitors from India, compared to other source markets, we see that India has a higher percentage of business visitors travelling to Dubai.

This confirms the city’s strategic importance as a global business and event hub as well as being an international gateway to high-yield regional markets.”

directly with local stakeholders in the markets to understand their needs “said Jakobsen on their promotion plans to approach target market in India.

Corporate sector from India is a big market. When asked about incentive schemes or programs to support these big groups travelling for events along with their itinerary he said Dubai Business Events offers a premier and accessible service that partners with, and facilitates partnerships for, business event planners and companies around the world. Our team of people, with highly specialized knowledge about Dubai, offer impartial advice, guidance and support to international business event organizers, ensuring delegates experience a truly memorable event.As Dubai works to establish itself as regional and global hub for expertise and knowledge across key sectors such as healthcare, technology, education, sustainable energy, transport, space, and water, our support program is aimed towards attracting meetings and conferences that fit within those sectors, aiding in the UAE’s transition to a knowledge economy.

For more information on Dubai events one can reach Vinit Dilip at (+91) 8108260458 orVinit.dilip@dubaitourism.ae

“India has become an important market for inbound business events to Dubai. In an effort to capitalise on the interest from India, just last year we set up a dedicated office in Mumbai with Vinit Toke of global Dubai Business Events representatives. Vinit will be responsible for promoting Dubai as a business events destination in the Indian market. In addition to the presence of our in-market office, we plan to attend leading industry events in India to promote Dubai’s diverse business event offering and host sales missions to meet 10 Corporate Outbound | February 2017

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Fe at ured

Expedition to the Everest Base Camp Siddharth Govindan and Anil Pai

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outh everest has captivated intepid men and women since the 1920s. The exploits of such legends as George Mallory, Sir Edmund Hillary ad Tenzing Norgay put the mighty mountain on the map. Thousand have since, making immense sacrifices, many with their lives, made their own attempts to at capturing the summit. Everest’s daunting summit soars so high that trekking to its base camp at an elevation of 17,590 feet is still an adventure. It is an achievable goal, but it does require immense training, diet and temperament control. The trek, which can be between 11 and 14 days, depending on the summits you wish to cover, and the weather conditions takes you to Everest’s Southern face base camp through some of the world’s most spectacular mountain scenery. Aside from the breathtaking scenery, there is an experience to be had that is exclusive to this region of the world. Live and breathe the unique Sherpa culture, visit monasteries and museums along the way. Days are filled with walking, for the sheer pleasure of walking. Past colorful prayer wheels and across swing bridges straight out of a mountain movie, the evenings are rewarded with hot, hearty and satifying sherpa stew, Thukpa and conversations with other trekkers, attempting the same, which appeared impossible until now. The heady mix of mountains, Buddhism, Sherpa culture, divine, cheerful food and warm Nepalese hospitality from the people of the Solukhumbu region makes the EBC

trek one of the most unforgettable in the world.

Spend a couple of days discovering the historic tresures of Kathmandu. When you first arrive here, you will take a day or two gathering your bearings. Visit the Thamel area, the medieval Kathmandu, the Bodhnath Stupa, extremely popular with tourists and allows you to window-shop at the street filled with trekking gear outlets. Since the major earthquake of 2015, you can see amazing sights of human bravado and unflinching mettle. Visit the famous Pashupathinath temple and feel the spirit soothe your soul. Both the Stupa and the temple are on the UNESCO world heritage sites list.

March to may and september to december are ideal months to attempt this trek. May gets hot and there can be rain. December gets frigid with snow. Days are still beautiful, but there are fewer trekkers. Remember to keep warm in the evenings.

After Kathmandu, your will have to move to Lukla, which is the world’s most dangerous airport with only a 50 meter runway. At a height of 9,394 ft, Lukla welcomes you, and you will feel like you are now there already. But this is also where the altitude sickness will very likely hit you. So spend a couple of days acclimitising to the rare oxygen and the elevation. Trek to Phakding, which is a downward trek, to 8700 ft, but this is part of getting used to the elevation and also, oxygen depleFebruary 2017 | Corporate Outbound 13

reward you by bring you to the Chola Pass!! The Chola pass is memorial/stupas of the people who dared before you and fell. Pay your respects and move on.

Spend a day acclimitizing at Dingboche. One finds oneself at an elevation never before experienced by their body, and sometimes, your body can rebel. Give it time to acclimitize.

Headaches and sleeplessness at this elevation are common, but as has been advised countless times before, it is in the mind before it is in the body. Keep a calm and stable head, and power through this. This is also the place where you will get a view of some of the highest peaks in the world, all of them over 8000 meters in heigh. The Makalu peak, the Cho Oyu and the Lhotse, and several other smaller peaks, and they will take your breath away. Spend some time marveling at the magnificence of nature and of your own body, for you are here because of your own grit and determination.

tion upon cardiovascular activity. Get a glimpse of village life and the hardship that is faced by the populace of the mountains on a regular basis.

Move from Phakding to Namche Bazaar the next day.

Namche, the heart of the sherpa land can only be approached on foot from Lukla. It is a seven hour walk, and not too difficult, except for some steep sections. Keep a stable head and temperament and plough on. You have a rest day coming up next, because at 11,286 ft, Namche is deep into the Himalayas, you will need to take a day off to acclimitize to the height you are at. It’s important that one follow this routine because the body needs time to build RBCs so that you get enough oxygen into your system with each breath, each of which will be precious. Namche is a little bit of a touristy place with bars, coffee shops and souvenir shops. It’s easy to spend the day lazing around or visiting the Namche Monastery.

Continue on to Lobuche and 16,207 ft the next day. Along the way, you will get spectacular views ofthe peak Pumori, sometimes called Everest’s daughter, Nuptse, Cholatse and Thamserku peaks. You are one of the few to have ever laid eyes on these, and celebrate this moment, and this victory.

An average trekker will take about eight hours to cover the distance between Dingboche to Lobuche. By now, your body would very likely be getting used to the harsh environment, but wet noses, cracked lips, a never ending headache and body aches are common. Try and get as much sleep when you can and plunder on.

The next day will test you resilience to the highest degree.

This is the day you will walk from Lobuche at 16,207 ft to Gorakshep at 16961 ft, all the way to the Everest base camp, 17,598 ft, a feat you body has never before attempted. You

will be giddy, with excitement, and with altitude sickness, but that will very rapidly be forgotten, as the awakening of being at the southern face of the Mount Everest dawns upon you.

The peak of the Mount Everest, the highest point on the face of our planet will bear down on you, and it will humble you.

The distant avalanches, the scary roar of the shifting mountains under you, the rugged terrain, the lack of life of any sort except your own tired feet, and the flags from those that dared before you, will remind you of what you can achieve, if only you put your mind to it. Don’t get too complacent yet, because if you dare, Kala Patthar, a peak boasting of 18,192 ft, 5,500 meters and shortest before the actual climb to the summit of the Mount Everest is not very far. Sleep as much as you can, and the next day, attempt this rocky, and daring climb. It is steep, it is cruel, it is for the daring. But dare you must, and you will be at the highest point of your life.

Start your return to Lobuche that same day because you still have to return back home and there’s a long way ahead. The return will be difficult on the knees, but it will be easier that the ascent. And you will return with a sense of accomplishment and stories never before told, and those that will be told and retold.

Training and preparation beforehand:

Physical training: one will need a minimum of three to four months of training before attemtping to reach the Everest base camp. Having a plan for stamina and endurance training as well as cardiovascular training and sticking by it will help you get to your goal. Usually, breaking down your training into achievable months will keep up the training as well as the morale.

1st and 2nd month –The first two months of training for the EBC trek includes walking/running – the distance gradually

Continue on to Tengboche the next day. Tengboche boasts of a beautiful Buddhist monastery. It is a moderately difficult trek from Namche, and will take you about 7 hours. Tengboche is situated in a small valley, and at the height of 12,664, the altitude will start to take a toll on you. Nosebleeds are common, many of which don’t stop even after trekkers return after conquering the summit. The important thing to keep in mind is to have a stable, solid head and a happy temperament. Move to Dingboche the next day, and you will be highest so far, at 14,304 ft. The route from Tengboche to Dingboche is dominated by great views of Ama Dablam which means mother’s necklace. Enjoy your day at Tengboche. Head towards Periche and the Imja valley, which offer vistas previously unseen. Hike past the Lobuche River into two steep sections. This part could take over 7 hours, even for an experienced trekker, and nature will promptly 14 Corporate Outbound | February 2017

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increased from 5 to 15kms a day. Moderate weight training, interval training on the threadmill (2- 3 times a week) is required to build endurance.

3rd and 4th Month – this is the time when physical training intensifies and an average 20 kms of walking a day is a must, including long walks on weekends (7-8hrs). This advisory is good for working professionals. Anything more than this on a daily basis will help you. Train carrying 5-8 kgs of weight on your back on a daily basis to help your body adjust for it.

Training must touch and surpass 20-25 kms of walks per day.

One also needs to prepare one’s equipment during this time. Shoes need to be worn out, because shoe bites during the treak are the leading reasons for complications and even premature termination of the trek.

Cycling, swimming, hill climbing are other exercises that must be undertaken to build stamina. Seek out tall buildings and walk up and down the stairs.

Diet for all 4 months – High carbs and protein all day. A typical meal plan during the duration of the training can look something like this.

Breakfast – Eggs, fresh juice Lunch - Rice, vegetables, 2 chapathis, chicken/ pulses (high protein) Pre work out – (45mins prior to starting everyday walking 18 Corporate Outbound | February 2017

exercise) – eggs/momos/sandwich and juice Post work out – protein shake/milk/eggs/grilled chicken/vegetables/and more protein Along with the above, throughout the duration of training for the trek, it is advisable to - Drink 4-5 lts of water around the day - Adhere to an all vegetarian diet last the 2 weeks before the trek. This is to avoid stomach upsets from questionable meats. It is also advisable to stay vegetarian during the trek for the same reason, because at that height, no meat is fresh.

As tempting as it is to try the yak steak, be aware that all meat is carried by porters from below Lukla, as there is no killing policy in Sagarmatha National Park. The safest option is Rice and dal, or the Sherpa stewThukpa.

- During the trek, take your time.

Get used to the altitude sickness, even the extremely fit can be hit. The acclimitisation days, usually at Namche bazaar and Dingboche, are set for a reason.

Symptoms include headaches, dizziness, sleeplessness, loss of appetite and breathlessness.

Bring supply of medications, but if symptoms persist, descend.

Typical day of Trekking:

A typical day of trekking to the Everest base camp would begin at 4 am. This is to avoid the queues that inevitably form at the short numbered washrooms. Sleep some more after, and this is desired, and advised. Wake up again at 7 am, grab

your breakfast at the teahouse you are staying at. These are meagre accomodations you will find along the way, where thin wooden planks separate sleeping quarters and serve as ‘rooms’. After you breakfast, clear out of the teahouse and continue your trek. It is important to warm up before the trek. Some breathing exercises, pranayama and stretching will relieve the sore muscles.

Make sure that your bag doesn’t weigh more than 1012 kilos, as it will just make your climb that much more treachourous. It is important to average a trek of 7 to 8 hours a day, so as to be able to complete the climb in a predetermined duration. Once you reach your destination at night, you will be exhausted, your limbs and shoulders and back will ache, but you will be filled with a sense of accomplishment for having come this far. A light dinner and early sleeping, no later than 8-9 pm, is advisable because you have a long day ahead of you tomorrow. And be prepared for that what that next day brings, and each morning, your heart will swell with happiness and pride for having come this far! The place is a sight for the sore eyes, so make sure to take lots of photographs and make a lot of memories. Do what you want, but leave the mountain pristine, in the state you found it in. Our planet and mountains are crumbling under the weight of human activity as it is.

Express Info Travel: Bangalore – Delhi – Kathmandu – Lukla. Air India runs this route.

- No visa Required to Nepal (passport has to be carried) - Agencies can be hired to organise the treks. Just make sure that they are registered with the Trekking Agencies Association of Nepal (TAAN). For a list of registered companies visit www.taan.org.np.

- Nepalese Government Permit is required for the trek in Kathmandu - Cost – INR 1 to 1.5 lacs including Airfare (excluding Training and equipment costs) - Team – 2 Sherpa’s, 1 guide and porters as required.

- Pack light. Aim for 10-15 kgs. It is advised to carry no more than 10 kilos of personal belongings, as you will be carrying the weight on your back. Also consider your porter’s load before you think of bringing that big bottle of perfume on the trek. A fleece jacket, a down jacket, thermal underwear is a must. Two pairs of long pants, two or three tee shirts, synthetic, not cotton. Footwear - broken in trekking and climbing shoes, trekking socks and sneakers. You will also need a raincoat, gloves, woollen hat, sunhat, and polarised sunglasses.

A good sleeping bag, rated for -20/0 deg C is essential. A thermal liner, if you are attempting a winter months trek.

Bring travel size toiletries, sunscreen is a must. Lip balm, travel towel and tissues and baby wipes. Bring medication for diarrhoea, antibiotics for chest and sinus infections, adhesive plaster for blisters. Get country specific vaccinations. Buying water along the way is the safest, even though it will come at a price. Or you can get water purification tablets from a drug store in Kathmandu, but they have often proven counterproductive.

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Fe at ure d

Jaisalmer Padhaaro Saa!

Come a tourist, leave a friend!

The silky Sam Sand Dunes, 41km west of Jaisalmer along a good sealed road (maintained by the Indian army), are one of the most popular excursions from the city. The band of dunes is about 2km long and is undeniably one of the most picturesque in the region. Some camel safaris camp here, but many more people just roll in for sunset, to be chased across the sands by tenacious camel owners offering short rides. Plenty more people stay overnight in one of the several tent resorts near the dunes. Desert safaris on camel back galore, and stay in a swiss tent for the night and enjoy the Arabian desert unfold in all its glory under the starlight.

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very old city has facts to declare, tales to impress, uniqueness to wonder and spirit to live. Jaisalmer in Rajasthan is one such city, which offers facts about the courageous rulers and citizens of the bygone era, tales of unequalled valor, unique in its beauty and undaunted spirit to keep us alive and kicking. The city is located deep inside in the famous Thar Desert.

The fort of Jaisalmer is a breathtaking sight: a massive sandcastle rising from the sandy plains like a mirage from a bygone era. No place better evokes exotic camel-train trade routes and desert mystery. Ninety-nine bastions encircle the fort’s still-inhabited twisting lanes. Inside are shops swaddled in bright embroideries, a royal palace and numerous businesses looking for your tourist rupee. Despite the commercialism, it’s hard not to be enchanted by this desert citadel.

Beneath the ramparts, particularly to the north, the narrow streets of the old city conceal magnificent havelis, all carved from the same golden-honey sandstone as the fort – hence Jaisalmer’s designation as the Golden City.

Towering over the fort’s main square, and partly built on top of the Hawa Pol (the fourth fort gate), is the former rulers’ elegant seven-storey palace. Highlights of the tour include the mirrored and painted Rang Mahal (the bedroom of the

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After a spiritual visit to the Tanot Mat Mandir and the museum, you can make it to the Indo-Pak Border and witness the international borderline between India and Pakistan.

However, before visiting the border, one needs to get proper documentations and permissions from the Indian Millitary and the local authority.

18th-century ruler Mulraj II), a gallery of finely wrought 15th-century sculptures donated to the rulers by the builders of the fort’s temples, and the spectacular 360-degree views from the rooftop.

The biggest fish in the haveli pond is Patwa-ki-Haveli, which towers over a narrow lane, its intricate stonework like honeycoloured lace. Divided into five sections, it was built between 1800 and 1860 by five Jain brothers who made their fortunes in brocade and jewellery. It’s all very impressive from the outside; however, the first of the five sections, the privately ownedKothari’s Patwa-ki-Haveli Museum, richly evokes 19thcentury life and is the only one worth paying entry for.

Within the fort walls is a maze-like, interconnecting treasure trove of seven beautiful yellow sandstone Jain temples, dating from the 15th and 16th centuries. Opening times have a habit of changing, so check with the caretakers. The intricate carving rivals that of the marble Jain temples in Ranakpur and Mt Abu, and has an extraordinary quality because of the soft, warm stone. Shoes and all leather items must be removed before entering the temples.

Gadsisar Lake is one of the most visited tourist destinations in Jaisalmer. Leaving the crowd away, there is Gadsisar lake, which is the symbol of peace and prosperity. It was once a

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water reservoir to the whole of Rajasthan.The major tourist attraction of the Gadsisar Lake is the lake surrounding temples and migratory birds. If you are lucky enough you might just be able to spot a migratory bird. There are a number of temples around it making it a famous pilgrimage spot.

Just inside First Fort Gate, Jaisal Italy has a decent vegetarian Italian menu, including bruschetta, antipasti, pasta, pizza, salad and desserts, plus Spanish omelettes. All this is served up in an exotically decorated indoor restaurant (cosy in winter, deliciously air-conditioned in summer) or on a delightful terrace atop the lower fort walls, with cinematic views.

Alcohol is served.

Adventure sports: There is much in terms of architecture and historical reasures that have to be seen to be believed in Jaisalmer, but this little town also boasts of some extraordiary adventure sports. Try Dune Bashing or quad biking, sports considered restricted to the Gulf and Arab countries, and is rapidly picking up in this quaint town. Go parasailing or paramotoring over the golden dunes of the thar desert.

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A fine dining restaurant, that attracts a large number of clientele is the Trio, an old restaurant featuring a high ceilinged tent and windowed walls that allow guests to enjoy some amazing views of the old bazaar. Enjoy a spicy dal tadka and an achaari chana here. Try the malai kofta, bajre ki roti, laal maas, which literally translates to red meat, which is mutton cooked in red chillies and other rajasthani spices, and other rajasthani delicacies like the Daal, baati, churma, gatte ki sabzi and kadhi pakodi at the Desert boy’s dhani.

Café the Kaku, a 853 year old bastion offers a beautiful view of the golden city. This pan continental place offers a great variety if the heavy rajasthani food is taking a toll on your palate.

cakes – choose either medium or strong. Bhang is legal, but it doesn’t agree with everyone, so go easy.

A city that has come back almost from the dead in the past half-century, Jaisalmer may be remote, but it’s certainly not forgotten – indeed it’s one of Rajasthan’s biggest tourist destinations.The name Jaisalmer itself brings out the vibrancy and charm. It floods the heart with the true feeling of culture at one end and the feeling of royal exuberance on the other.

The daylight hues, the yellow sands, the pink and red forts, the royal palaces, and the Arabian night dances are set to capture your hearts.

Express Info Getting there: Most commercial airlines run flights to Jaipur or Jodhpur connecting it to most domestic and international cities. The Jaipur junction railway station serves as the headquarters of the Northwestern railway zone of the Indian railways and is connected to most major cities in India.

The interstate bus terminus is located at Sindhi camp and is also close to the railway station.

By train: Jaisalmer is well connected with a wide network of trains covering most of the Indian cities like Delhi, Jodhpur, Jaipur and others.

Once you reach the station, there are many auto-rickshaws and private taxis standing outside the station that will take you to the city on a nominal fare.

Bhaang, the elixier of lord Shiva!

Jaisalmer’s licensed Bhang Shop is a simple, unpretentious place. The magic ingredient is bhang: cannabis buds and leaves mixed into a paste with milk, ghee and spices. As well as lassi, it also does a range of bhang-laced cookies and 22 Corporate Outbound | February 2017

By road: The Jodhpur airport is 5-6 hours drive away from the town of Jaiselmer. A prepaid or hired taxi is the best way to reach Jaisalmer from Jodhpur.

Time to Visit: The ideal time to visit Jaisalmer is between the months of September and March when it is not too warm.

February 2017 | Corporate Outbound 23

Enterprising Travel Agents Association (ETAA) organises its first event in East India

E

nterprising Travel Agents Association (ETAA) organized its 1st Event in Eastern India, Kolkata on the 4th of Feb’2017 at The Park hotel. The event received an overwhelming response from its Members and others from the Travel Trade. Agents from as far as Siliguri were part of this event. The event was well represented by participation of members of other Associations, Skal being one of them.

At the event the ETAA East India Chapter was formed and Mr Koushik Banerjee was announced as the interim Chairman.

The event was graced by ETAA’s Chairman Emeritus, Mr Carl Dantas, President, Mr Jagat Mehta, Chairman of Hospitality, Hotel & Tourism committee, Mr Partha Chatterjee (Skal) and National Jt. Secretary, Mrs Dipti Thakoor. More than 40 Travel agents from various associations attended the event from Kolkata and other surrounding cities.

Vijayawada 24th, 25th, 26th Feb 2017

Bhubaneshwar 24th, 25th, 26th Mar 2017

Rajkot th st nd 30 Jun,1 ,2 july 2017

Indore 25th,26th,27th Aug 2017

Mangalore 27th,28th,29th Oct 2017

Vijayawada 17th,18th,19th Nov 2017

Madurai th th 15 ,16 ,17 Dec 2017 th

The event was appreciated by all and a good kick start to ETAA's Regional Chapter for East India, completing a truly Pan India presence of Regional Chapters in North, South & Western India.

ETAA National Board & Regional Chapters are all geared upto welcome its Members, Special Invitees & Sponsor’s for its upcoming ETAA Convention at Leonia Resorts, Hyderabad from 3rd March to 5th March 2017."

There was a brief knowledge session by Traweltag which was conducted by renowned Trainer, Mr Aman Koushik and Mr Rajesh Dutta, Director Strategy & Client Relationship.

Mr Jagat Mehta introduced to the gathering on how ETAA was formed & the various activities it conducts to educate its Members. Ms. Dipti Thakoor, updated the members in detail about ETAA & the benefits of being an ETAA member. Mr Carl Dantas, Chairman Emeritus, founder President of ETAA briefed the gathering about the idea of Networking in ETAA and further thanked the members for sparing the time to attend the event & formal launch of ETAA's East India Chapter.

24 Corporate Outbound | February 2017

February 2017 | Corporate Outbound 25

Kenya

Make your honeymoon a memorable one!

K

enya is one of Africa's most popular tourist destinations.

The country has something for everyone, be it one of the most untouched and pristine wildlife or luxury products.

The rich wildlife of the Maasai Mara is perfect for a life time safari experience. In addition, the coastline offers brilliant beaches, diving and fishing experiences. The coastline is fringed with miles of white sands and the brilliant blue waters of the Indian Ocean. Kenya offers a unique naturally beautiful environment for all kinds of travellers, be it family, honeymooners, MICE, Adventure, film makers or Golfers.

Kenya is an ultimate honeymoon destination to celebrate your love and begin your life's journey together. Whether it's spotting the real-life cast of the Lion King, exploring a big city, or lazing around on some of the best unspoiled beaches in the world, Kenya's got every honeymooner's wish list covered.

Its quintessential images of herds of elephants in front of snow capped Mount Kilimanjaro, hot air balloons above the Maasai Mara & the proud Maasai warriors has drawn honeymooners for years. It is the land which inspired Karen Blixen's 'Out of

26 Corporate Outbound | February 2017

Africa', a place of vast plains and abundant wildlife, coupled with endless white palm-lined beaches fronting the Indian Ocean. With every champagne toast at sunset, candle-lit beach dinner and every action packed game drive, a honeymoon in Kenya is sure to provide lasting memories.

The idea of candle light dinners in the bush, romantic walks, adventurous game drives, sundowners, hot air balloon rides, cruises, deep sea diving, snorkelling and much more are all available in Kenya and this makes it an ideal honeymoon destination.

Mombasa, Lamu, Diani, Watamu are some of the best & unspoiled beaches in the world. Along Kenya's beaches you can expect to see traditional dhows sailing across shimmering waters, towns dotting the coastline featuring intricately carved doorways studded with brass, and white walls draped with bougainvillea. The fusion of Arabic and African culture combined with superb palm-lined beaches and azure blue ocean waters will entice any visitor to linger longer, especially when staying on Lamu Island. The Kenya coast and Lamu are the perfect destinations for a safari and beach honeymoon.

With all these attractions and many more, your honeymoon in Kenya is going to be a romantic adventure.

Express Info Currency - 1 Kenyan Shilling= 0.65 INR Visa- Visa on Arrival is available for Indians at the Airport on Payment of $ 50. Passenger should have Confirmed Air ticket and Yellow Fever Certificate along with other Travel Documents.

Flights- Kenya Airways, Air India and other flights have a connection from Mumbai and Delhi with approximately fare of 40000 INR. Best time to visit - is June to October when Wildlife is easier to spot because the bush is less dense and animals gather around waterholes and rivers. It's unlikely to rain, the days are sunny with clear skies and there are fewer mosquitoes. This is also the best season to see the wildebeest migration.

February 2017 | Corporate Outbound 27

INGREDIENTS • • • • • • • • • •

Vegetable oil :1 tbsp Onion,( chopped):1 no Garlic(minced) : 3 cloves Curry powder : 2 tbsp Fresh kale (chopped) : 1 bunch whole tomatoes: 200 gms Green peas: 150 gms Fresh corn : 150 gms Cooked beans( any type): 200 gms Salt/ Black pepper: To taste

METHOD 1. Cut the corn kernels from the cobs and set aside. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot and sauté the onions and garlic over medium heat until they are lightly cooked, about 3 minutes or so. Add the curry powder and cook for another minute or so.

Chef Vipul, a Professional in Industry with over 11 years of experience in India and Abroad, specializes in South East Asian and Modern Continental Cuisine. Currently, he is inspiring and nurturing young chefs as a Chef Trainer at IHM PUSA New Delhi.

Githeri (Beans and Corn stew) Githeri (pronounced Guh-theory) is a simple, nourishing staple dish found throughout Kenya originated with Kikuyu tribe. The combination of beans and corn supplies a full complement of protein for the often protein-poor diet of many Kenyans.

2. Add the kale and reduce the heat to low. Cook, stirring with a wooden spoon until the kale softens, about 10 minutes or so. Add the tomatoes, corn , peas and beans and simmer another 10 minutes or so. Add the reserved tomato juice and continue cooking until heated through.

Season to your taste with salt and pepper. Serve hot.

GITHERI VARIATIONS In Kenya, dried corn and beans are used. The beans and corn are put in a pot with water and simmered for several hours until softened. Use any kind of beans: pinto beans, kidney beans, cowpeas (black-eyed peas), green peas, groundnuts, pigeon peas.

To give the dish more flavor and texture, add some chopped greens, sautéed onions, cubed potatoes or cassava, stew meat or a little curry powder.

Muthokoi: Substitute hominy for the corn.

Mukimo: Cook the beans and corn with some chopped potatoes and chopped greens. Mash together well and season with salt and pepper.

28 Corporate Outbound | February 2017

February 2017 | Corporate Outbound 29

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