Express Travelworld December, 2013

CONTENTS

Vol 8 No 11 DECEMBER 2013 Pages 44

Chairman of the Board

Viveck Goenka Editor

Reema Lokesh* Assistant Editor

Steena Joy Associate Editor

Sudipta Dev CONTENT TEAM Mumbai

Kahini Chakraborty Rituparna Chatterjee New Delhi

Niharika Shukla Kolkata

Joy Roy Choudhury MARKETING

FESTIVE

FORMULA

(21)

Deputy General Manager

Harit Mohanty Chief Manager

MARKETS

LIFE

Emmanuel Fernandes Manager

Sunil D'costa

06

TAFI SAYS 'SHALOM' IN THE PROMISED LAND

33

CIRCULATION

Mohan Varadakar PRODUCTION General Manager

12

TAAI TO HOLD 2013 ANNUAL CONVENTION IN INDIA AFTER 6 YEARS

14

SEYCHELLES TOURISM BOARD FORAYS INTO INDIAN MARKET

B R Tipnis Manager

MANAGEMENT

Bhadresh Valia Layout

Ratilal Ladani, Kiran Parker Asst. Art Director

COCKPIT CHALLENGES BOEING PROJECTS THAT AIRLINES IN THE MIDDLE EAST WILL NEED 100,000 NEW PILOTS & TECHNICIANS

25

Surajit Patro Chief Designer

Pravin Temble Senior Graphic Designerr

Rushikesh Konka

EDGE

Photo Editor

Sandeep Patil Cover Image courtesy: VisitEngland/Andy Tryner Express TravelWorld Reg. No.-MH/MR/SOUTH156\2013-15 RNI Reg. No.MAHENG/2005/15993 Printed by The Indian Express Limited and published by Ms Vaidehi Thakar on behalf of The Indian Express Press, Plot No. EL208, TTC Industrial Area, Mahape, Navi Mumbai - 400710 and Published from Express Towers, 2nd Floor, Nariman Point, Mumbai - 400021. (Editorial & Administrative Offices: Express Towers, 1st Floor, Nariman Point, Mumbai – 400021) Editor Reema Lokesh*

31

TRULY MEGA TOURISM MALAYSIA HAS BEEN CONTINUOUSLY WORKING TO CREATE NEWER TOURISM OFFERINGS

QUINTESSENTIAL PUGLIA PUGLIA SHOWCASES A DISTINCTIVE ARCHITECTURAL LEGACY

P04: EDITOR’S NOTE P34: APPOINTMENTS P41: WEEKEND

Copyright @ 2011 The Indian Express Ltd. All rights reserved throughout the world. Reproduction in any manner, electronic or otherwise, in whole or in part, without prior written permission is prohibited. *Responsible for selection of news under PRB Act

EDITOR’S NOTE

Year end thoughts

O

n the face of it year 2013 did not reveal any innovations or any intellectually inspiring developments in the travel space. It seemed to be business as usual, though there have been under currents of discussions and debates about the future of the travel agent and what is in store, post the no-commission phase from airlines. It was also brought to notice that a sizeable number of SME agents have given up their IATA certification and there are talks on the sidelines that the business has lost its glorious days.

Interestingly, companies are also being launched in the India market, who believe that the travel business is still lucrative and if done right coupled with in depth research and product knowledge, the customer today is surely asking for more as they surely know more. The mantra for success for these new age companies seems to be simple: complacency is out and creativity is definitely in.

This year also brought with it its share

HEAD OFFICE Express TravelWorld Sunil D’costa Business Publications Division, The Indian Express Ltd, 1st Floor, Express Towers, Nariman Point, Mumbai-400021. India Tel: 67440496 Fax: 22885831 E-mail: sunil.dcosta@expressindia.com Branch Offices : NEW DELHI: Prabhas Jha The Indian Express Ltd, Business Publications Division, Express Building (Basement) 9 & 10, Bahadur Shah Zafar Marg, New Delhi - 110 002 Tel : +91 - 11- 23465670, CHENNAI: Yuvaraj, The Indian Express Ltd, Business Publications Division,

4 EXPRESS TRAVELWORLD December 2013

New No.37/C (Old No.16/C) 2nd Floor Whites Road, Royapettah, Chennai - 600 014 Mobile : 097100022999 Board: 044 - 28543031 Fax: 044 - 28543035 BENGALURU: Gujan Chauhan, Business Publications Division, The Indian Express Ltd. 502 Devatha Plaza, 5th Floor 131 Residency Road Bangalore - 560025 Mobile : 09620601306 Ph 080-22231923/24 Fax: 22231925.

HYDERABAD: Mujahid, The Indian Express Ltd, Business Publications Division, 6-3-885/7/B, Ground floor V.V. Mansion, Somaji Guda

“The mantra for success for these new age companies seems to be simple, complacency is out and creativity is definitely in”

of crises, from the US dollar increase to disturbances that arose due to natural calamities. The cyclones have left their mark and there is a lot that needs to be done in terms of disaster management. On the home front, states of Odisha and Andhra Pradesh were appreciated for their timely evacuation efforts, without resulting in a cataclysmic situation or major loss of life . It is always nice to reflect and regain strength from the positives.

It is also necessary to believe in the best of things, than the worst. Our cover story this issue brings with it a lot of goodwill and cheer. While Christmas and New Year is celebrated differently around the world, there are many common elements. We take a look at how some of the countries are enhancing the destination excitement and adding new elements and programmes into the season’s festivities.

REEMA LOKESH Editor editorial.etw@expressindia.com

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MARKETS

New infrastructure projects to strengthen tourism in Sikkim State emerges as premier eco tourism destination Joy Roy Choudhury Pelling SIKKIM ATTRACTS over 10 lakh tourists annually. Infrastructure development has been a focus area for the state government, which will lead to further growth in tourist arrivals. Sikkim's greenfield airport under construction at Pakyong will be operational by next year. “Besides the upcoming airport, initially construction of railway links up to Rangpo is being taken up and it is proposed to be expanded up to Nathula in the India-China border. The National Highway

is being upgraded with proposal for construction of an alternate highway for Sikkim.

Once these projects are completed, Sikkim will receive the maximum number of tourists,” said Pawan Kumar Chamling, chief minister of Sikkim during the inaugural ceremony of Chumbi Mountain Retreat Resort & Spa, a five-star luxury resort in Pelling.

The chief minister also welcomed investors to set up projects in the state, including tourism and hospitality projects. “Sikkim's tourism vision is unique because it is backed by the policies of development

and welfare of its people. You cannot promote tourism when there's poverty and discontent. That is why the government is moving ahead with a comprehensive road map to make Sikkim a fully literate, poverty free and a self-reliant state by 2020,” he mentioned.

Sikkim was the first Indian state to frame a dedicated Eco-Tourism Policy with the assistance of Japanese and American experts. Over the last two decades Sikkim has been able to establish itself as premier eco-tourism destination in the country. “We have achieved this through formu-

Pawan Kumar Chamling

lation of some dedicated programmes and creation of innovative tourism concepts in the context of the country and the world itself,” said Chamling. It also aims to become a totally organic state by 2015. The state is already completely plastic-free and has been careful to promote only green industries.

Pointing out Sikkim has become one of the most sought after tourist destinations in the country, Chamling added that it is not because of the government’s efforts alone but also because of people’s contribution in preserving Sikkim as the

model of tourism industry. “'Sikkim is a healthy mix of socio-cultural ethos of the Sikkimese people that includes heritage conservation measures and nature tourism.

Equally evident is the aggressive promotion of pilgrimage tourism by creating host of pilgrimage centres based on people’s faith and belief. This has, in fact, led to defining a new tourism circuit within the state resulting in deeper integration with Buddhist Circuit tourism involving centres located in central India, eastern and north eastern region,” he added.

Insurance companies bullish on growth of travel insurance segment Kahini Chakraborty Mumbai GENERAL INSURANCE companies are seeing scope for growth in the travel insurance segment amidst recent reports on them seeking approval from IRDA to increase travel insurance premiums due to the rupee depreciation against the dollar.

This trend has been due to travellers now becoming more cautious and educating themselves regarding the perils of mammoth medical expenses overseas. According to insurance officials, the overall insurance industry is growing at the rate of 18-20 per cent per annum and they are expecting to grow in line with the industry.

Yashish Dahiya, CEO and cofounder, Policybazaar.com revealed, “As an insurance aggregator website we see some

Yashish Dahiya

Amit Bhandari

Mukesh Kumar

interesting trends for travel insurance products. For instance, about 20 per cent of the bookings for travel insurance on the website are for travellers heading to destinations in Asia. This clearly shows that Asia Pacific destinations are favourites apart from America and Europe. Over 50 per cent of people purchasing travel insurance are under the age of 35 and close to 38 per cent of our enquiries are for people

over the age of 60. As per our data, almost 70 per cent of our consumers are buying travel insurance with a sum insured of up to US$ 100,000.”

ICICI Lombard has revamped its international travel insurance offering and also expects this portfolio offering to grow. Amit Bhandari, VPhealth underwriting and claims, ICICI Lombard added, “The rupee has witnessed high

volatility against the dollar in the recent past. This uncertainty has also impacted the premium collection in travel insurance. Some companies have increased the premium on travel insurance, though we haven’t done so till date.”

While Mukesh Kumar, member of executive management and head - HR, marketing and strategy planning, HDFC ERGO General Insurance said,

“Currency fluctuation is typically considered as one of the factors while arriving at the premium prices. This is also taken into consideration along with other factors like the customised requirement in coverages, travel frequency, country of visit, etc. The change in pricing requires regulatory approvals which can take around three-six months. We have as of now not considered increasing premium for travel insurance.”

But as there is a discrete corelation of the rupee fall with claims as they are settled in dollars to the insured, Dev Karvat, managing director, TrawellTag India strongly believes that since most of the insurance claims come from unpredictable health emergencies that travellers face overseas, the rise in premium is inevitable.

5 EXPRESS TRAVELWORLD December 2013

MARKETS

'We are doing a campaign to exempt tourism from hartals' Strikes are a common occurrence in Kerala, which adversely affects tourism in the state. Anish Kumar P K, the newly appointed president of Association of Tourism Trade Organisations India (ATTOI) talks about their concerted efforts to combat this issue and their focus on promoting ethical tourism. By Sudipta Dev As the new president of ATTOI what would be the key issues you would be focusing on ?

ATTOI would focus on two areas – first, opportunities for members and second, resolve and rectify issues and challenges faced by our members.

We have conducted international roadshows at Malaysia and Singapore to promote tourism. International Conference on Travel Technology ( ICTT India) conducted at Kovalam by ATTOI was the first of its kind technology education for the members and stake holders of tourism in India. We

are planning to do more tourism promotion in emerging markets through road shows as well as by using digital platforms to bring in more business for our members. ATTOI is now doing a campaign to exempt tourism from the hartals ( strikes). Tour operators are finding it difficult to operate tours in Kerala on a hartal day.

Our Facebook campaign against the same got overwhelming support from the trade and public, the poll campaign on social media had a positive response with 99 per cent percentage of the voters being against hartals.

Can you elaborate on your motto 'Integrity in Tourism' ?

Nowadays 60 per cent of the tourism is online. Identifying the right tour operator is an important element of holidaying. ATTOI choose its members with strict selection criteria to ensure honesty and trustworthiness. It is a platform of like minded people having ethics and moral principles. Our unity keeps ATTOI as a pressure group in the tourism industry.

What is your targeted member base ?

For membership we have

no targets, only those who qualify our membership criteria are being offered our membership.

Any important events you are planning to organise in 2014 ?

We are planning for the second edition of ICTT India as well as one or two international road shows.

What is your vision for ATTOI ?

To make members of ATTOI true tourism professionals. We plan to give training on marketing, logistics and train-

Anish Kumar P K

ing on using social media to generate business for our members.

Any other significant factor ?

We see considerable shift in markets and channels of distribution in tourism. Eurozone used to be the main source market for India and economic slow down in Europe has paved the way to find new markets. Middle East, East Asia, Australia and North America are becoming new markets for India. Online penetration also makes world a market.

TAFI says 'Shalom' in the Promised Land Reema Lokesh Jerusalem THE NATIONAL ISRAEL Tourism Office (NITO) - Project India recently conducted an exclusive familiarisation tour for members of the Travel Agents Federation of India ( TAFI ) to unique spots of the country to promote tourism both for MICE and leisure and also to educate the travel agents on the culture, opportunities and potential that Israel has to offer as a tourist destination. The delegation was led by Madah Hassan, director NITO - Project India. Judah Samuel, director of marketing, NITO - Project India worked with the TAFI team to promote Israel as a MICE and

6 EXPRESS TRAVELWORLD December 2013

leisure destination.

The TAFI delegation led by president Zakhir Ahmed, were unanimous in their feedback about the trip being a real eye

opener in many ways. The preconceived image of a region that was not tourist friendly and that it was only meant for pilgrim tourism and Holy Land tours

was replaced with a rather positive approach that Israel can be also promoted as a leisure travel destination that goes beyond just pilgrimage. Though undoubtedly the destination has a powerful significance for three major world religions, there are places across the country that can be promoted for leisure and MICE tourism. The Dead Sea offers tourists a unique experience which is both therapeutic as well as fun. Tel Aviv has some excellent nightlife options, very pleasant walk ways in the Yaffo area and the north of Israel has some unique cruise options like that of sailing on the Sea of Galilee.

The TAFI team also met up with select Israeli suppliers who were confident to team up to

strengthen the outbound business from India. The team also shared some realistic feedback that the price points and packages can be redesigned to suit the requirement of the price sensitive Indian traveller who looks for a value for money holiday option. The TAFI members who were part of the delegation were as follows, Zakir Ahmed, who lead the delegation, Pradip Lulla, Basheer Ahammed, Promod Kohli, Urvashi Mohan, Jayesh Tharani, Teddy Thomas, Rajat Bagaria, Bharat Shah, Dipak Patel, Paulose Mathew, Vijay Gupta and Gladwyn Pinto. El AL Israel Airlines came in as the partner airline.

(See more pics on page 42)

MARKETS

Cameron to take up the issue of British Airways return to Kolkata ETW Staff Kolkata DAVID CAMERON, prime minister of the United Kingdom assured Mamata Banerjee, chief minister of West Bengal during his interaction with her at the British Deputy High Commissioner's Office, that he would take up her request for British Airways' return to the city. “Bengal, the erstwhile hub of the British empire, will again be one of the focal areas of United Kingdom in coming days,” said Cameron during his recent daylong visit to Kolkata.

A delegation of business

Bengal, the erstwhile hub of the British empire, will be one of the focal areas of UK in the coming days

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EXPRESS TRAVELWORLD

December 2013

leaders from the city during their meeting with Cameron, also impressed upon the need for the airline to touch down at Kolkata. “Though, it is not for me take the final decision.

But my coming here should send a positive message to the airline. I will take up the issue of a direct service between London and Kolkata,” stated Cameron. British Airways withdrew its Kolkata – London flight in 2008. Kolkata is now the only international airport in one of the four metros to be left without a direct flight to Europe or the US. Furthermore, allaying the apprehension of visa restriction, Cameron said Indian students were welcome in the United Kingdom in any number and work in graduate employment after studies.

“There is no limit on the number of people that can come and study at British universities. They have got to have an English language qualification, a place at an university but there's no limit on the numbers that can come,” he said. His assurance came amid a visa row between the two countries in the wake of the European nation suggesting several restrictions.

Turkish Airlines: Seamless connectivity to Europe Sudipta Dev Mumbai TURKISH AIRLINES has one of the largest networks in the world flying to as many as 105 countries. The majority of the passengers are however to Europe. “In Europe we fly to 90 destinations. There are many daily flights from Istanbul to UK to London alone there are eight daily flights. There are seven gateways in Italy, which means a 100 flights a week. In Germany there are 12 destinations, Spain and France five each. Russia is also growing in importance,” said Mehmet Akay, general manager, Southern and Western India, Turkish Airlines. He pointed out that the airline has a strong student traffic. “Because the network is so wide in Europe, even Tier II and III cities in Europe you can reach by our airline. Mumbai being the business capital of India, we have many business class passengers as well,” mentioned Akay.

This is the tenth year for Turkish Airlines in India. In 2003, the airline started its operations to Delhi with three weekly flights followed by three weekly flights to Mumbai. In 2009 the fourth serv-

Mehmet Akay

ice was started. “The bilateral agreements have restricted the flights to 14 a week from India, seven each from Delhi and Mumbai. It is not possible to put additional flights but we have increased the capacity by changing type of aircraft. Depending on the provisions of bilateral we would like to add more flights into Delhi and Mumbai,” stated Akay. He informed that the Mumbai flights are performing above network averages - in 2012 the network average was 77 per cent, India performed about 85 per cent load factor. 80 per cent of whom are transit passengers. Akay reminded that the popularity of Turkey is increasing, “Every year we see more Indian travellers visiting Turkey. This year maybe there will be more than one

lakh Indians visiting Turkey.”

Many transit passengers also have a stopover in Istanbul as now there is electronic for those who have a UK, US or Schengen visa.

Currently the airline operates into 42 domestic airports, majority within one hour flight range from Istanbul. The most favourite destination for Indian travellers is Cappadocia, Izmir and Antalya. In terms of international connectivity, the US is yet another important destination. “We fly to New York, Washington, Chicago, Houston and Los Angeles. Next year May we will start Boston. In Canada we fly to Toronto, next June we will start our Montreal operations,” informed Akay. According to Akay Turkish Airlines has some differentiation from both European and Middle Eastern carriers. "We are alone in our own segment. We have western technology but Asian hospitality."

Akay reminded that Istanbul is a very transit friendly airport, with an excellent business lounge. A new lounge will be opened soon at the airport. By 2018 a new airport will be opened in Istanbul, which will be the third biggest in world and the largest in Europe.

MARKETS

Boeing to introduce future family of environment-friendly aircraft Sudipta Dev Mumbai BOEING is developing new fuel efficient planes to address the needs of its customers, including those in India. Today the 737 is dominant in India, which in future will be replaced with 737-7, 737 MAX 8 and 737 MAX 9, which will be more fuel efficient. “The 737-Y which will be coming up by the end of the decade will be the future family of highly fuel efficient aircraft,” stated Dinesh A Keskar, VPsales, Boeing Commercial Airplanes.

The 737 MAX family will deliver maximum fuel efficiency, reliability and passenger appeal. “The new engine technology makes this 14 per cent

more fuel efficient. The increased range will reduce noise and fuel consumption. In India there is a great potential with this airplane, particularly with Jet Airways and SpiceJet,” stated Keskar. The fuel burn of 737 MAX 8 will be 8 per cent lower per seat than future competition. According to Keskar, there are 1609 firm orders for the MAX. Pointing out that fuel efficient aircraft lead to lower operating cost, are environmentally progressive, and ensure long range performance, Keskar informed that 787-8 is coming to India in an early version. The 787-9 and 787-10 will be the succeeding versions. These are environmental friendly aircraft with 20 per cent lower CO2 emis-

The fuel burn of 737 MAX 8 will be 8 per cent lower per seat than future competition.

According to Keskar, there are 1609 firm orders for the MAX Dinesh A Keskar

sions and 20 per cent lower fuel consumption. 96 787-8s have been delivered to 16 customers

by Boeing as of October 25, 2013.

The 787-9 took the first flight in September 2013, more tests flights will continue. The end of the decade will see the new

model of 777X, in two versions.

“These will be the most fuel efficient aircraft,” remarked Keskar.

Talking about the state of aviation in India, Keskar remarked that while there are short-term weaknesses, there

will be long-term success. Domestic capacity has returned to positive growth at 3 per cent.

LCC seat share has stabilised at two-third of the market.

“The recent rupee depreciation has adversely affected the market,” added Keskar.

Fillip to air connectivity between India and Slovenia Niharika Shukla – New Delhi A CODE SHARE agreement was signed between Rohit Nandan, chairman and MD, Air India and Mark Anzur, president management board and CEO, Adria Airways to establish greater co-operation and collaboration between the air services of India and Slovenia. The code share agreement was signed at the Embassy of The Republic of Slovenia on November 12, 2013.

Through this agreement, both nations are expecting a growth in the tourism market and cultural exchange.

Surendra Gupte, head - planning and international relations, Air India said, “This step will open a new era for civil aviation and boost tourism flows strengthening the tourism markets and will provide seamless connectivity to Indian travellers

10 EXPRESS TRAVELWORLD December 2013

and enable them to have convenient travel. For now the connectivity is only from Delhi but we will soon be starting flights from other cities as well.” Adding to this, Anzur said, “Slovenia is located in the middle of four countries, which enables it to accomodate different cultures and showcase a variety of traditions and serves as a great tourist destination with diverse heritage.

The country provides with wonderful scenic beauty and activities for tourists to enjoy. With cooperation between Adria Airways and Air India we are expecting great amount of travel between India and Slovenia.”

Being a member of Star Alliance, Adria Airways connects 16 cities throughout Europe and in connection with other airline partners of Star Alliance offers access to a global network of 27 airlines with more than 21,900 daily flights to 1,328 airports in 195 countries.

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TAAI to hold 2013 Annual Convention in India after 2007 ETW Staff Mumbai TRAVEL AGENTS Association of India (TAAI) is hosting The Indian Travel Congress – 2013, its 61st annual convention from December 13-16, 2013 at Vivanta by Taj - Yeshwantpur, Bengaluru. The theme of the convention will be 'Connect, Co-operate, Collaborate'. The event will be held along with India Travel Trade Expo (ITTE) and TAAI Travel Awards. After six years, TAAI has selected India as a venue for its convention.

The last time India hosted this convention was in 2007 at Chennai.

Speaking about the reason for choosing the theme, Iqbal Mulla, president, TAAI said, "Keeping in mind the present scenario and challenges faced by the travel and tourism industry, we have designed our theme, which we believe is appropriate for the current scenario. The need of the hour is to 'Connect, Co-operate, Collaborate' for the benefit of our businesses. The convention will give an opportunity to interact and develop relationships with industry stakeholders. We are working on pre and post convention tours and finalising business sessions.”

The chief guests for the convention will include - K

The need of the hour is to 'Connect, Co-operate, Collaborate' for the benefit of our businesses. The convention will give an opportunity to interact with industry Iqbal Mulla

Siddaramaiah, chief minister Karnataka; R V Deshpande, minister for tourism, Government of Karnataka. Secretary of ministry of civil aviation, Government of India, has also consented to be part of the

event. The inauguration of the convention will be followed by a gala dinner. The inauguration of ITTE will be held on the second day, followed by business sessions. The TAAI Travel Awards will be held in

the evening of the second day.

On December 15, networking and business sessions will continue, followed by a farewell dinner. TAAI will have its annual general meeting on the last day.

Flanders govt promotes Great War Centenary NIHARIKA SHUKLA – New Delhi A CENTURY AGO, soldiers from more than 50 countries fought the World War I in Flanders. A seminar was organised

by Visit Flanders and VISITBRUSSELS on World War I Rememberance 2014-2018 in New Delhi recently. Lead by Princess Astrid, the seminar was held as part of the official programme of the visiting Belgian Economic Mission. The seminar brought into light the plans for the fouryear rememberance project called the Great War Centenry 2014-2018 which has been set up by the government of Flanders.

A monument at the Menin Gate in Leper has been erected in honour of the 7000 soldiers who lost their lives during the war. Accompanying the princess were Didier Reynders, deputy prime minister and federal minister of foreign affairs, Foreign Trade; Kris Peeters, minister-president, Government of Flanders, flem-

12 EXPRESS TRAVELWORLD December 2013

ish minister for economy, foreign policy, agriculture and rural policy. Alain Hutchinson, president, VISITBRUSSELS; Peter De Wilde, CEO, Visit Flanders and Patrick Bontinck, CEO, VISITBRUSSELS and others.

“Indian soldiers played a major role during the World War I and the centenary provides with an appropriate occassion to pay homage to the brave soldiers who lost their lives during the great war. We are looking forward to welcome a big amount of visitors from India to pay tribute to these soldiers and visit the sites and attend the cultural programmes and exhibitions which will be a part of the commemoration programme. We have been making all the efforts to make sure that an appropriate tribute is provided to the victims of the war and their descendants,” said Wilde.

At least two million additional visitors are being expected by Visit Flanders in the next four years. Visit Flanders

has invested 15 million euros in a total of 44 museums, visitor centres and other World War I sites across Flanders. Some of the important sites in Flanders remembering the war include In flanders Fields Museum in Ypres, Lijssenthoek Military Cemetery Visitor Center, Talbot

House, The Memorial Museum Passchendaele 1917, the Goose Foot Complex in Nieuwpoort and Museum aan de Ijzer in Yser Tower. Other than these some of the unique exhibitions, musicial and cultural performances and artistic projects will also be held as part of the commemoration.

The Great War Centenary aspires to commemorate the victims of the war, contemplate peace and encourage understanding. The region's landscape speaks the story of the war through hundreds of monuments and cemeteries of great historical significance.

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Seychelles Tourism Board forays into Indian market Kahini Chakraborty Mumbai SEYCHELLES TOURISM BOARD has forayed into the Indian market and has appointed Mumbai-based Blue Square Consultants as their India representative. The tourism board is initially focusing on targeting honeymooners, luxury, adventure and experiential travellers from India. Talking to Express TravelWorld, Lubaina Sheerazi, head, Blue Square Consultants, Seychelles Tourist Office, India said, “India is turning into a strong outbound market in the world and is also an emerging source market for us. We are excited to have entered this dynamic market and welcome Indians to Seychelles islands. Seychelles islands offers such diversity – not only in the islands themselves but also in their flora,

14 EXPRESS TRAVELWORLD December 2013

Lubaina Sheerazi

fauna, ethnicity, architecture, cuisine, traditions and activities. Our current focus is increasing awareness and understanding about the destination among trade, media and eventually the end customer.”

“Our main objective now is to get the trade allied and on board which we will be doing through conducting road shows, destination trainings, participating in trade fairs

and organizing FAM trips. We are also working at facilitating familiarisation between the Indian travel trade and the private sector in Seychelles.

We are also supporting the trade to design market sensitive products and to push Seychelles product to potential customers,” she informed.

Elaborating on the marketing strategies, she added, “In tandem with Seychelles Tourism Board global strategy we will invest lot of efforts in proactive engagement with the media.”

In terms of flight connectivity, she said, “Currently Emirates, Etihad Airways and SriLankan Airlines connect India to the Seychelles islands via Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Colombo respectively.

As Seychelles islands become more popular in India we are confident that there will be multiple options to fly to the country.”

Trentino Tourism tests Indian market Kahini Chakraborty Mumbai TRENTINO TOURISM is looking at targeting FIT tour operators catering to high-end clients from the Indian market. Having 40 ski resorts, it will promote destinations such as Madonna di Campiglio and Lake Garda and Val di Fassa besides the town areas. Speaking exclusively to Express TravelWorld, Fabio Gerola, - marketing manager, foreign market department, Central Europe and Russia, TRENTINOSVILPPO said, “This is the first time we are visiting India and we are still understanding the market. We have had few meetings with the travel trade and have been given to understand that Trentino is a new destination and there is an interest in specialised tours. It is the right time to introduce the destination as travellers are looking for more experiential tours.

Hence we will be sending them information on the destination according to their needs as there were some tour operators who spoke about honeymooners, students, FITs. Another step will be to organise workshops and conduct FAM trips for the travel agents to get first hand experience of the destination.”

The board is looking at going step by step with its promotional activities and is looking at work-

Fabio Gerola

ing with travel agents doing specialised tours. They would look at offering one week itineraries from skiing point of view and in summers offer three-four nights combining it with other destinations. “We have different accommodation options from threestar to five star hotels, chalet residences, bed and breakfast, as well as agri tourism products.

We have hotels that are managed by the owners,” he added.

About the potential of the Indian market, Gerola opined, “It is a good option for us. We don't want to have 1000 tourists at the moment. We would like to begin slowly in a new market and then offer specialised products. We host about four million tourists every year. We have about 1,500 hotels plus a lot of chalet residences, bed and breakfast etc.

We also have capacity of half a million beds.”

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Govt of Catalonia keen on direct India-Barcelona flights Akshay Kumar Mumbai CATALONIA, an autonomous destination in Spain, is aggressively looking at attracting Indian visitors. The capital city of Barcelona has always been popular with Indian tourists.

Around 50 per cent of Indian tourists visiting Spain also visit Catalonia. The Government of Catalonia had organised, Barcelona and Catalonia Fashion Show and destination promotion in Mumbai recently.

A direct flight between India and Barcelona is expected to further give a fillip to Indian tourist arrivals. Speaking exclusively to Express TravelWorld, Arthur Mas, president, Catalonia said, “The first important plan is to convince airlines in India to start a direct flight between India and

Barcelona. If we have a direct flight then a lot of Indians would go to Catalonia and Barcelona and vice-verse.”

Catalonia, a destination which has an area equal to one per cent of the Indian land, has a lot to offer to Indian tourists. Barcelona FC has many diehard fans in India and sports tourism is one of the key segments that can be promoted here. Mas commented, “For Indians we offer all our segments, they love Barca, our main football team. We also have our culture, architecture, gastronomy, cuisine, beaches and mountains to offer. We are trying to convince people from India to visit our country.”

Promoting the destination through Bollywood is an important tourism strategy. The success of the film Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara and what it did to draw Indian visitors to Spain is

proof of the fact. Mas acknowledged, “Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara, was a very successful movie as well as it created awareness and brought many

Indian tourists.”

Top Spanish designers and Spain’s top model Rachel Byros opened the fashion show while Indian supermodels

Tamara Moss, Kanishtha Dandekar, Erika Pakard and Iris Maity were present along with showstopper Aditi Rao Hydari.

Germany focuses on two core themes for 2014 marketing campaign Rituparna Chatterjee – Mumbai AS PART OF ITS 2014 marketing campaign, German National Tourist Office (GNTO) will focus on its two core themes – UNESCO World Heritage Sites and 25th year of the fall of the Berlin Wall. Germany has around 38 World Heritage Sites and will be promoting these sites along with celebrating the 25th anniversary of the fall of the Berlin Wall to boost tourism. This marketing campaign in 2014 is expected to boost the number of Indian travellers visiting Germany from this

year, which witnessed no growth in the number of Indian travellers. Speaking about this, Romit Theophilus, director, marketing and sales – India, GNTO said, “The arrivals this year has been at par with last year. We don't have any growth or any negative growth as such.

We expect to finish this year also with the same figures as last year, which is close to 550,000 overnights from India to Germany.”

The rupee devaluation and the current social and economic condition in India has led to the number being static, explained

Theophilus, adding, “The change in the exchange rate has hit the incentive travellers the worst because they travel in volumes and where we had plans to do a lot of incentives in October and November, unfortunately most of them have fallen through because their budgets have risen by almost 30 per cent. However, we expect to bounce right back next year.”

Despite the current scenario, Germany hopes to increase the number of travellers from India with specific growth coming in from the incentive travel segment. “By

2020 we will have a lot more Indians travelling to Germany not only for business but also for leisure. We will see an in-

Germany hopes to increase the incentive travel segment

crease in incentive travel as well and now we are seeing more and more people willing to see one country independently rather than visiting many many countries at a go.

We have seen an increased focus from a lot of corporates now on Germany given the infrastructure of the country, convenient transportation, easy of arranging events.

Hence, we see a lot more incentive travellers going from India to Germany whether it will be 500 people to up to10,000 people,” he concluded.

15 EXPRESS TRAVELWORLD December 2013

MARKETS

St Moritz warms up to Indian visitors Sudipta Dev Mumbai

Chamonix Mont-Blanc emerges as a base to explore nearby destinations Sudipta Dev Mumbai AS A DESTINATION Chamonix Mont-Blanc has been focusing on the India market for the last seven years. It has evolved in these years from a destination which Indians would stay for a night or two to one where they are now spending six nights – to not just explore the many offerings of the destination itself but also as a base for exploring many places of interest that are just a few hours drive away. “This is the advantage of Chamonix which is at the cross roads of three countries, which is France, Italy and Switzerland,” stated Sheetal Munshaw, India representative, Chamonix Mont-Blanc Tourism Board in India. With the cancellation of biometric for France visa, Munshaw is hopeful that large MICE groups will now look at Chamonix as there has always been an interest in the destination.

Chamonix Mont-Blanc is home to Aiguille du Midi - the

16 EXPRESS TRAVELWORLD December 2013

Antoine Burnet

highest peak in Europe accessible by cable car. "It is at the top of Europe as far as getting there by cable car is concerned where you get to an altitude of 3842 metres. While the summit is the main attraction, Chamonix is also a gourmet destination, has high-end spas and one of the few wine spas that exists in France. It has the first spa that started wine therapy. Chamonix also has an exciting night life,” mentioned Munshaw. Yet another highlight is the Mer de Glace (Sea of Ice) glacier that

is among the largest glaciers in Europe.

Chamonix is looking at new markets to promote its attractions during low season and to welcome clients - mid April to beginning of July and during Autumn. “Chamonix has two peak seasons - the winter and summer. Winter starts at mid December and ends mid April. We have peak season in summer, from July to August. We know that Indian travellers go to Swiss destinations. Chamonix is also located in the French Alps so we have been trying for more than seven years to promote Chamonix as an interesting mountain destination for Indian travellers,” said Antoine Burnet, sales and marketing director, Compagnie du Mont Blanc. There are 80 restaurants including Indian and vegetarian options. One of the new highlights is the 'The Step into the Void' – a glass cage suspended over the void on one of the Aiguille du Midi’s terraces where you can look down to more than 1000 metres.

THREE YEARS ago St Moritz had started investing in the Indian market. While there has been some growth in tourist arrivals from India, according to Ariane Ehrat, CEO, Tourism Organisation Engadin St Moritz, the potential is much more. “Our focus is FIT and small groups. There are 162 hotels in Engadin Valley and as many as 15 of them are very interested in Indian clients. Badrutt's Palace during winter season has an Indian chef and the Indian guests appreciate this. There are also apartments and villas that are keen to attract Indian guests. Intercultural workshops have been organised to help the local population learn more about Indian culture,” said Ehrat.

The products being showcased in the Indian market include an amalgamation of hotels across all categories, culinary highlights (local, international and Indian), and of course the natural beauty of the region. There are many soft adventure activities that would be of interest to Indian travellers - from electro-biking to walking around clear lakes and forests. “It is very unusual to have a valley which is dotted with lakes, and during summers there are various water sports available in St Moritz and Engadin Valley, from sailing to

Ariane Ehrat

para gliding to kayaking, etc,” she mentioned. The Glacier Express bridges St Moritz and Zermatt.

All visitors in summer season are offered mountain railway rides for free when they stay minimum two nights in a hotel. As many as 111 hotels participate in the offer.

There are more than 10 different mountain railways that take visitors to the peaks. “In winter season 2014-15 we will celebrate 150 years of winter tourism. St Moritz is the birthplace of winter tourism and many programmes are being organised,” stated Ehrat. There will also be a Gourmet Festival, which, Ehrat feels, will be of special interest to Indian visitors.

Then there is also Cricket on Ice and Polo on Ice (White Turf, a very popular event), Art Master an annual event, and many more.

MARKETS

Trafalgar launches 2014 Europe and Britain brochure Rituparna Chatterjee Mumbai TRAFALGAR has launched its 2014 Europe and Britain brochure which has more than 104 itineraries. Five new itineraries have been included in the 2014 brochure which include – Northern Spain, Swiss Delight, The Balkans and Venice, Delights of London and Paris, Wonders of Europe including Eurostar, along with two new stopovers - Dubai and Abu Dhabi. As part of this brochure, Trafalgar has extended their savings plan to 10 per cent till February, 2014 and 7.5 per cent

till April, 2014 through the travel season in India. The brochure is aimed at targeting the high-end Indian leisure travellers. Speaking on this, Nicholas Lim, president – Asia, The Travel Corporation and regional director – Asia, Trafalgar said, “The travel season here in India, especially in Mumbai is from April to May and this savings plan is extended right through the travel season. Through this we are encouraging travellers to book early since India is a late booking market.”

Though their products are targeted at high-end FITs and family segment, they are not

Nicholas Lim

currently looking at catering to the MICE segment. However,

they have the facilities for the MICE segment. “We do not cater to MICE but we do have the facility to host MICE. If someone wants to take a group of 100 MICE travellers to Spain, then we have a division to customise their requirements,” explained Lim. Trafalgar’s focus on the luxury segment has been influenced by this segment’s continuous growth in India. “Luxury travellers are the fastest growing travel segment in India especially the senior citizen segment who have a high disposable income and have more time to travel on back to

back holidays. Another fast growing travel segment is professionals between the age group of 40 and 54 who appreciate value and quality of experience,” he opined. Speaking about the current growth in luxury travel in India, Lim stated, “This year the numbers have grown remarkable well.

India has shown an 88 per cent growth this year, which is huge for us. Though India is not the biggest market but it the fastest growing market in Asia.

Australia and New Zealand are considered to be luxury destinations in India because of distance and cost.”

HKTB to boost cruise tourism in Hong Kong Rituparna Chatterjee Mumbai HONG KONG Tourism Board (HKTB) is looking at boosting cruise business in Honk Kong by targeting cruise travellers from India and abroad as part of their marketing campaign for 2014. Its recently opened Kai Tak cruise terminal and Star Cruises' announcement of its cruise ship - SuperStar Virgo having its home port in Hong Kong will help in bringing more cruise travellers in to the city. Peter Hoslin, regional director -Europe and new markets, HKTB stated, “The Indian travellers are familiar with Hong Kong and so we constantly need to advise them on all our new products. Therefore, Hong Kong is rejuvenating its products and cruise in one of them. This year we opened a new cruise terminal in Hong Kong. It is at the end of a runway at the old Kai Tak airport in Hong Kong. Further-

Peter Hoslin

more, Star Cruises has just announced that their cruise ship SuperStar Virgo will have its home port in Hong Kong next year and will run some 90 stops in Hong Kong from April to October next year. Cruise is very important for the Indian market. It has a great cruise con-

sumer base so we will be running some promotions on our own and also with Star Cruises.”

Apart from the 2014 marketing campaign, HKTB recently concluded the second and last phase of their 2013 marketing campaign 'Hold My Hand' wherein it collaborated with film

school Whistling Woods International to convert the romantic fiction novel 'Hold My Hand' into short films. The campaign targets young travellers.

Though India is a small market for Hong Kong, the city has witnessed a growth in Indian tourist arrivals this year.

“We are doing very well now in

our growth. There has been four per cent growth in Indian visitors to Hong Kong in the first half of the year. India is a small but an emerging market for us. This year, till now, we had around 460, 000 Indian visitors and we are expecting to reach 500,000 by year end,” Hoslin revealed.

17 EXPRESS TRAVELWORLD December 2013

MARKETS

Sri Lanka set to unveil its first Mauritius focuses on MICE, cricket memorabilia museum wedding and golf segment Akshay Kumar Mumbai

Tarika Ahuja

Vijaye Haulder

Rituparna Chatterjee – Mumbai

“We have a lot of people interested in golf and hopefully the numbers will grow. We have had 100,000 amateur and professional golfers coming in to Mauritius from everywhere,” stated Vijaye Haulder, deputy director, MTPA. Adding to this, Ahuja stated, “Mauritius is a well known golf destination. We have a lot of international tournaments coming to Mauritius every year. Even in December, we have golf tournaments happening. We are not new to golf but we are trying to make Indians more aware now because golf is a good market in India and we have a lot of golfers in India.”

With this increased focus on golf tourism, wedding and MICE segment, MTPA hopes to boost the growth in the number of Indian travellers visiting Mauritius. “Till September the increase was about 7.2 per cent in Indian travellers visiting Mauritius and we hope to keep the percentage up but the problem is that we don’t have adequate capacity in direct flights.

But by next year we hope to grow by 10 per cent,” revealed Haulder.

MAURITIUS TOURISM Promotion Authority (MTPA) is focusing more on the MICE, wedding and golf segment in India this year to increase their numbers to Mauritius.

Tarika Ahuja, general manager – destination marketing, TRAC Representations India stated, “MICE is not a new market for Mauritius from India. We have had some groups in the past and we have been having regular groups also, their size starts from 25 to big groups of 600 pax as well.

Since Mauritius has the infrastructure and facilities, we thought of focusing more on Mauritius as a MICE destination. Currently the leisure segment especially the family and wedding segment is coming into Mauritius whereas earlier it used to be only the honeymooning segment.”

As for golf tourism, MTPA is targeting Indian golfers directly to market Mauritius as a golf destination as it boasts of 18 hole nine golf courses and nine hole two golf courses.

18 EXPRESS TRAVELWORLD December 2013

WILLS REALTORS, a company established by the champions of the 1996 World cup winning Sri Lankan squad has planned to launch Sri Lanka's first cricket museum. This one of a kind museum is proposed to be a Sri Lankan cricket team memorabilia museum, which would display the 1996 World Cups' precious memories. The reason to build this proposed museum is to revive the glory of the island's cricketing excellence.

Speaking exclusively to Express TravelWorld, Arjuna Ranatunga, former Sri Lankan captain and chairman, Wills Realtors said, “We are planning to start a cricket memorabilia museum along with a world class luxurious residen-

tial complex in the heart of Sri Jayawardenapura. This museum is proposed by us to revive the memory of Sri Lankan Cricket.”

Sri Jayawardenapura, also known as Sri Lanka's new capital, is famous for its beautiful lake Diyawanna and the Sri Lankan Parliament. Wills Realtors has partnered with Vivanta Associates who would be the Indian promoters as well as the developers for this exclusive project.

Venkatesh Rao, partner, Vivanta Associates commented, “This project will play a very crucial role in attracting foreign tourists to Sri Lanka. The museum will surely pull in cricket lovers from across the globe.”

The 1996 World Cup winning squad have joined together to start a world class luxurious residential com-

plex which would completely depict a cricket theme. The proposed iconic structure has been designed and conceived in the shape of a bat and ball. This project would also be beneficial for the veteran Sri Lankan cricketers, as a part of the money earned from this project would be spent in uplifting their standard of living.

Also, there are talks about opening a world class restaurant in the complex.

Aravinda de Silva, former Sri Lankan cricketer, who is also a part of this project is interested in opening this multicuisine restaurant.

Ranatunga added, “Aravinda is very keen on starting a multi-cuisine restaurant. We haven't gone into the details but there are plans for a restaurant.”

L-R: Romesh Kaluwitharana, Ravindra Pushpakumara, Arjuna Ranatunga, Sanath Jayasuriya and Chaminda Vaas at the launch of Wills Realtors

MARKETS

Trawell Tag focuses on R&D, training travel agents Akshay Kumar – Mumbai TRAWELL TAG INDIA, providers of global assistance and travel insurance in India is focusing on R&D to provide novel products for the Indian market. The company also has a strong focus on training travel agents. The company had organised a National Training Drive for travel agents in Ahmedabad. The next location for this training activity would

be Chennai. “Before March 2014 we will conduct this training drive in 12 to 14 cities.

Training is something which we have to constantly keep doing to upgrade our people skills. As a leader in the market, we have taken the responsibility to make sure that we help the market to grow. The only way is to train and empower the travel agents which would help the market grow, which is why we invest so heavily in training,” said Dev Karvat,

managing director, Trawell Tag. Trawell Tag India has partnered with Australian travel insurance and medical insurance company, Cover - More. The new re-branded entity 'TrawellTag Cover-More' will offer global assistance including services like online tracking of lost luggage, medical and travel insurance, family protection, concierge assistance and ancillary products like global SIM card.

Indian markets are growing and travellers are exposed to better products

Speaking about the strategic partnership, Karvat said, “Cover-More operates in much advanced markets than ours.

They are much ahead in the learning curve. Indian markets are beginning to grow and the travellers are getting exposed to better products available worldwide. We think CoverMore is a perfect fit which will help us to take our business to the next level.” In this key partnership deal, Cover-More is the minority share holder.

Rotana Hotels conducts first India sales mission Niharika ShuklaNew Delhi ROTANA HOTEL Management Corporation conducted its first India sales mission in New Delhi recently wherein it revealed its plans for the India market. The company aims to open 20 properties within the next 10 years in India. The company is looking at potential asset owners across tier one and tier two cities in India. Focusing on 25 cities at the moment, the company plans to announce its first project within the next six months. With an aim to achieve 14-15 per cent business growth from India, it is planning to invest US$ three-five million over the next few years.

Andy Nightingale, director, international sales, Rotana Hotel Management Corporation said, “Being the highest revenue generating market, India is the most appropriate market for us.

Tourism boards of Dubai and Abu Dhabi have been cooperative with us and we are here to further promote our brands in India. We have observed 40 per cent traffic growth from the

country since our sales presence here in India from the last three years. Middle East is quite popular as a tourist market today and we receive not only leisure but also business travellers and then there are families who want a longer stay which our brand Arjaan Hotel Apartments provides.”

The group has a portfolio of 85 properties under its name located around Middle East, Africa, South Asia and Eastern Europe. Rotana Hotels has four brands under its name – Rotana Hotels and Resorts, Centro Hotels by Rotana, Rayhaan Hotels & Resorts and Arjaan Hotel Apartments by Rotana. The brand will be coming up with two five-star properties shortly, one being Salalah Rotana Resort

in Oman and another one being Saadiyat Rotana Resort to be opened in 2015.

Some of the general managers present at the sales mission included Mrad El Khoury,

Middle East is quite popular as a tourist market today and we receive not only leisure but also business travellers and families who want a longer stay

Towers Rotana, Dubai; Rabih Melhem, Media Rotana, Dubai; Karim Nahas, Rose Rayhaan, Dubai; Hussein Hachem, Al Bustan & Al Murooj Rotana, Dubai; Jorg A Hauri, Beach Rotana, Abu Dhabi; Mark Deere, Yas Island Rotana & Centro Yas Island, Abu Dhabi and Pierre Zayoun, Al Manshar Rotana, Kuwait.

“We are looking at India as a potential market wherein we can invest in terms of setting up of outbound sales operation. We currently operate under four brand names and we have plans

to launch our properties in India soon. Increasing our MICE share is one of our main objectives. This is our first roadshow in India and we are expecting a positive response from the Indian market. Media Rotana in Dubai is one of the finest hotels providing 441 rooms and suites, 14 meeting rooms, five dining venues and a fitness and health club. The location of the hotel also allows one to access the nearby golf course, beaches and shopping malls,” said Melhem, general manager, Media Rotana, Dubai.

19 EXPRESS TRAVELWORLD December 2013

MARKETS

India's first branded luxuryvilla hotel to come up in Goa Sudipta Dev Mumbai

Deltin Group to open casino hotels in Daman and Sikkim Looking to tap international markets like Nepal and Sri Lanka Akshay Kumar Mumbai DELTIN GROUP, India’s first integrated gaming and hospitality brand by Delta Corp, is launching its first property in Daman, The Deltin Hotel. This property is Daman's first integrated five star resort and casino. Also, the Deltin Group is aggressively looking to enter the eastern market by launching a property in Sikkim, but this is still at a nascent stage. In India, the licenses and permission for live gaming is only encouraged by Goa, Daman and Sikkim.

Jaydev Mody, chairman, Delta Corp said, “Our primary focus has always been on providing premium experiences as we stand for luxury and glamour at each of our properties and the Deltin brand is an accurate reflection of that.

The Deltin Hotel in Daman is our new property which would be launched in the first quarter of 2014. Daman is near Mumbai, so we expect a good number of people coming to our hotel.”

20 EXPRESS TRAVELWORLD December 2013

“We are looking to tap the Sikkim market as well, this is a new market and has a good potential to attract customers.

Apart from the domestic market, we are also looking to tap some international markets like Nepal and Sri Lanka,” he added.

Deltin Daman will be a five star deluxe hotel with more than 35,000 sq ft space for a large casino facility with bars and restaurants. This 168 rooms and suites property will have facilities like an all day dining restaurant, a specialty restaurant, a bar and pool bar, pastry shop, spa with eight treatment rooms, equipped gym, swimming pool with sep-

In Las Vegas you go to a hotel, it has 6000 rooms and the casino is 150,000 sq ft

arated kid's pool and kids play area, entertainment zone and eight retail shops. For conferences and events, they have a grand ballroom and four small function rooms with total space of 16,000 sq ft and parking space for over 250 cars.

Speaking exclusively to Food & Hospitality World, about the status of live casino gaming market in India, Mody said, “In terms of experience and rules we are the same as the international market. It is only the scale which is not there in our country. In Las Vegas you go to a hotel, it has 6000 rooms and the casino is 150,000 sq ft, but our casino is only 50,000 sq ft. All rooms put together we have only 400 rooms, so the scale is not there.

But we have been operating for only four five years, so it would eventually develop.”

Currently, DeltinGroup holds three of the five licenses for live casinos in Goa. Deltin Group owns two offshore casinos Deltin Casino Royale and Deltin Jaqk apart from two hotels in Goa, Deltin Palms and Deltin suits.

SCAPES REALTY India has formed a partnership with EPI[K]UREAN hospitality to launch India's first high-end villa hotel or Villotel in Siolim, Goa. The JV will be called EPI[K]UREAN Amala. “We want to start a Villotel branded chain. We will be managing the property like a five-star hotel. Guests can book a spacious villa with bedrooms, each on a separate floor,” said Sameer Mutreja, director, Scapes Realty. Talking about the JV with EPI[K]UREAN hospitality, he added, “We wanted to partner with a chain who had the expertise to manage boutique properties, we needed a specialist.” After Goa the company is looking at Shimla, Mysore, Alwar and later also Kerala.

Another project in Goa is a holistic wellness resort in a villa complex.

Renting a villa for holidays is very popular in Europe, Florida and California. The company aims to change the way Indians holiday through its chain of Villotels. “The reason why people do not hire villas in India is because it is not branded. When we go on a holiday to Koh Samui or Phuket, we get different options. In India it is either a five- star hotel or a three-star/ two-star property. There is nothing else branded in the country. The problem in that space is that you pay `20,000 in a holiday village and you get a 400 sq feet space, that is the only private area. The rest are all common areas,” stated Mutreja.

A guest who hires a villa gets a private pool, private

Sameer Mutreja

spa and of course a private butler. Every villa comes with a private elevator. You can also choose a chef of your choice. Each villa will have racks of wine, branded crockery, etc. There will also be a wellness cafe in the complex.

The cafe will serve detox juices, fruits, dishes made with organic vegetables, etc.

“We are planning to do many wellness retreats. It is going to run like a proper resort but around the main concept will be wellness,” informed Mutreja.

To be completed in 2015, the first project in Goa includes 14 villas, total number of keys is 43. Every guest has to rent a villa, which are of different sizes. “It is a win-win for everyone. The buyer of a villa now owns a part of the hotel and gets 50 per cent of the gross operating profit.

The person who rents it gets an exclusive place,” pointed out Mutreja. The buyers instead of using their own villas can enjoy a holiday in EPI[K]UREAN villas in Koh Samui or Vietnam.

cover )

With Christmas and New Year around the corner, tourism boards of different countries have lined up a host of festivities which they hope will drive visitor arrivals into their destinations, There are also options where one can become a part of the festivities by learning art forms and other skills. Interestingly there is also a growing trend among Indians to plan their travel during these festive times

BY KAHINI CHAKRABORTY

21 EXPRESS TRAVELWORLD December 2013

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O

nce again it is that time of the year when the atmosphere is filled with happiness, laughter, lights and music. It is the season of goodwill, giving and sharing when churches ring out with the chants of choirboys and girls practising Christmas renditions like 'Silent night holy night', 'Mary's boy child Jesus Christ,' 'Oh, come, all ye faithful', and groups go from house to house singing famous carols such as 'Jingle Bells', 'Rudolph the red nose reindeer', 'Santa Claus is Coming to Town'.

For each one of us, Christmas and New Year 's eve celebrations may have different meanings- either it could be a time to connect with family, taking a rushed flight to get closer to a loved one, a long due vacation or a reminder to go shopping. For the kids, its their belief in receiving their secret gifts on Christmas eve from their beloved Santa Claus, also known as Saint Nicholas, Father Christmas, Kris Kringle or simply Santa, whose hometown is Rovaniemi, Lapland, Arctic Circle in Finland where he lives with magical elves and nine flying reindeers.

A market for celebrations While Christmas is celebrated differently around the world, there are some common elements include lighting of Christmas trees, hanging of wreaths, Christmas stockings, candy canes and creation of nativity scenes depicting the birth of Jesus Christ. We take a look at how some of the countries are enhancing the destination excitement and adding new elements and programmes into its annual events calendar: In the US, Christmas-related tourist attractions, such as Rockefeller Centre Christmas tree and elaborate animated department store windows in New York City are a major attraction for tourists the world over. In

22 EXPRESS TRAVELWORLD December 2013

Phillipines

Canada provinces where English is the main language, Christmas traditions are similar to those of the United States with some influence from the UK. “Christmas and New Year together make for the most important season of the year in Canada with a month around merry making and celebrations across the country. To further promote the idea, we educate and encourage our trade partners to package the destination in a way that would allow travellers to enjoy Canada at its best,” says Tina Singh, assistant vice president, CTC India.

A line-up of some of the many Christmas festivities that visitors can be a part of in England include: The Shakespeare Birthplace light show, Christmas cel-

ebration at Beaulieu, Cockington Christmas Fayre, Torquay, Festive fun at Hampton Court Palace, Tudor Christmas Feasts, Newcastle Gateshead Winter Festival: NYE Winter Carnival, Christmas at Kew, The Great Christmas Pudding Race – London & Brighton, etc.

“We are not doing any targeted promotions specifically, but are sending out ideas and updates on festivities in England in our trade and consumer newsletters – from the Christmas markets in various parts of England – Manchester being one of the most well known; to winter wonderlands like the magic of Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland. Held annually, this firm family favourite makes its 2013 return with big shows, the pop-

In the US, the Rockefeller Centre Christmas tree and animated department store windows in New York City are a major attraction for tourists the world over

ular Christmas market, a glittering observation wheel and of course, the Magical Ice Kingdom. And you don’t have to be up in the mountains to enjoy a ski lodge, as a growing trend for pop-up, city-centre ski lodges looks set to continue this winter,” says Reem Khokhar, regional manager – Asia Pacific, VisitEngland.

While in Luxembourg, Christmas decorations start before advent. December 6 is celebrated as St Nicholas Day and before going to bed on the eve of his visit, children put their plate next to their door with a carrot, or bottle of beer and maybe a letter for St Nicholas. In exchange they wake up to juicy clementines, fresh chocolate figures, ginger-coffee biscuits in the shape of St Nicholas, marzipan and presents such as games and toys. Alain Krier, marketing and research media, Luxembourg National Tourist Office adds, “The decorations represent all the presents God made to the creation. An advent wreath decorates the family table. The wreath has four candles. The first week of the advent one candle gets lit, the next Sunday the

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THE MAIN FOCUS

“A growing trend for pop-up, city-centre ski lodges looks set to continue this winter” Reem Khokhar Regional manager – Asia Pacific, VisitEngland

“The festivities include traditional performances and colourful parades” Manoharan Periasamy Director, Tourism Malaysia

Luxembourg

second and so forth until all four are spreading light on Christmas Eve. He adds, “Although Luxembourg is a highly secularised country, its roots are anchored in Roman Christianity. Many Christian feasts are still accepted as official holidays. Independently from religious considerations, celebrating Christmas means commemorating the values of which represent light and family. The 'Winterlights' festival immerses the historic centre of Luxembourg in a magical setting. The Christmas markets in various places through the city, the big wheel, the fairground attractions, the Advent circus, street entertainment, processions and parades, exhibitions, shows and concerts create a warm and friendly atmosphere all day long.”

The Christmas market in Berlin beckons with around 60 traditional Christmas markets and winter fun. Romit Theophilus, director, sales and marketing, India, German National Tourist Office (GNTO) informs, “Old town squares and medieval castles are an en-

chanting setting for most Christmas markets and add to the festive atmosphere of the holiday season. Christmas markets are the perfect place to find a unique Christmas gift or souvenir, such as handmade toys, Christmas ornaments and decorations, pottery, and crystal ware.” While Southern Germany accounts for some known Christmas markets, Dresden, east Germany is one of Germany's oldest and largest Christmas markets. The Striezelmarkt in Dresden takes its name from the striezel, Dresden's speciality stollen cake. The highlights include the world's tallest Christmas pyramid (14 metres) and the Stollenfest. “This is like exploring a giant storybook of the imagination, with themed worlds, 150 shows and performances daily, food and drink and shopping,” opines Theophilus.

Further to South Germany, in Nuremberg, the Christmas Angel opens on November 29, the town's famous Christkindlesmarkt on Hauptmarkt square in the old quarter. This city offers a medieval atmosphere, authentic Nuremberg ginger-

bread, Nuremberg bratwurst, Advent and Christmas concerts in the churches, traditional Nativity scenes in the baroque church of St. Aegidius and in Spitalgasse, an exhibition of historical market stalls in the town hall.

In Ireland, tourist attractions like the Dublin Castle and Titanic Belfast have special Christmas events for kids and families alike – plays and performances, storytelling and dancing are the order of the day and of course there is always an inhouse Santa, with his elves. Hotel accommodations like Dromoland, Ashford Castle, Ballynahinch Castle, Carton House and many more have special Christmas packages for families visiting them during the period. “Tourism Ireland supports these activities and festivities and helps make them tourist friendly. We market the special events at home and in the overseas markets as well.

Several media like print and online are used to spread awareness amongst the traveller community,” mentions Huzan Fraser, representative India, Tourism Ireland.

The Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) is launching ‘Hong Kong WinterFest’ once again as its promotional platform for the winter season. Targeting young adults and families from short-haul markets, HKTB is packaging and promoting a series of exciting events and activities, as well as shopping offers in the city, encouraging visitors to experience the festive ambience of Hong Kong’s winter holiday season. Peter Hoslin, regional director, Europe and new markets, HKTB adds, “‘Wishes on the Wind’ is this year’s highlight as Hong Kong makes dreams come true under its newest Christmas centerpiece, WISH in a form the art installation created by young American artist Robert James Buchholz and appearing in Hong Kong for the first time. Depicting three contemporary dandelions losing their seeds in the wind, this dramatic Christmas sculpture soars more than five storeys high (15 metres) in the air, constantly changing colours to music in a specially choreographed seasonal installation at Central’s Statue Square.”

“In 2012, the Philippines recorded 4.27 million tourist arrivals” San Jeet Market representative - India, Philippines Tourism

“Christmas and New Year together make for the most important season of the year in Canada” Tina Singh Assistant vice president, CTC India

23 EXPRESS TRAVELWORLD December 2013

cover ) In Philippines, one of the major attractions during this time is Cubao's Giant Christmas tree which has a height of almost 100 feet. Located near the Araneta Center and filled with more than ten thousand lights and gigantic ribbons this surely attracts and enchants the onlookers and spectators. The Giant Lantern Festival in the city of San Fernando, Pampanga showcases colourful gigantic lanterns made by skilled craftsmen of San Fernando annually. One can expect large lanterns of up to 15 metres high, with as many as 16,000 bulbs at the event dancing to an interplay of colours to the tune of Christmas songs. The other attractions include Policarpio Street in Mandaluyong, COD Christmas Show in Greenhills, Divisoria in Central Manila.

If that was not all, one of the reasons why travellers must visit Malaysia too during Christmas is because of the 1 Malaysia Year End Sale which is on till January 5, 2014. This sale makes Christmas shopping even more exciting with unbelievable surprises thrown in. Foreign tourists and locals have a whopping 55 days to make the most of the great discounts and special offers put together by various shopping malls nationwide. Shopping malls also host numerous exciting events to make Malaysia the place to go to for shopping, fashion and food throughout 1 MYES 2013. Getting into the festive mood is Cape Town, South Africa which will have the hallways and entrances of the Victoria Wharf Shopping Mall transformed into a captivating underwater world of blue, gold and silver while baubles adorned with silver stars will hang overhead. There will be a Santa’s Workshop in the Centre Court too. The V&A Waterfront is known to be the best free New Year celebration with something in store for families, friends and fun-seekers.

Call of culture Now that we have seen how few of the national tourism boards are promoting their desti-

24 EXPRESS TRAVELWORLD December 2013

Germany

“Medieval castles are an enchanting setting for most Christmas markets”

“Tourism Ireland helps make these festivities tourist friendly”

Romit Theophilus

Huzan Fraser

Director, sales and marketing, India, GNTO

Representative India, Tourism Ireland

nations, the question which arises is on how many Indians actually decide to travel abroad during these festive period. Giving clarity on the thought, Fraser says, “The Indian traveller has slowly transformed into a savvy visitor who is able to appreciate different cultures. Festivals and events add to the attraction of a destination, since it offers an exciting experience at a location you aspire to visit.

There have always been visitors from the niche travel segment, visiting the island of Ireland in the festive season in winters. But the numbers have been increasing for the last few years. Christmas all across Ireland, specially at one of the castle/country properties like Ashford Castle or Carton House and New Year’s Eve in Dublin are slowly becoming popular and we can predict that the visitor numbers will soon grow exponentially for December, like the summer holiday season.”

Khokhar informs, “Festivities aren’t probably the sole motiva-

tion when planning a trip, but people do take into account festivals or cultural events that they may be able to experience when visiting a destination. A leisure visitor or for those visiting their friends and relatives may plan their visits around a festival so that they get to experience some of the local festivities.”

Canada being the second largest country in the world offering a myriad of experiences to every traveller has also been experiencing a surge in tourist numbers. Reasoning the same, Singh says, “Coming from a culturally rich background, an Indian traveller usually has a strong penchant for all things traditional. We have observed a lot of Indians travelling to Canada during the peak season of winter and summer but their itineraries are not generally festival specific. They do, however, include regional festivals or events in their trips if they happen to visit the destination during those days. A similar trend was also noted during the

growth in November- December 2012.” But she is quick to add that, “with the endless celebrations that Canada offers throughout the year, some of the most frequented festivals in Canada include the Carnival de QuebecOld Quebec, Winter festival of lights- Niagara Falls, Calgary Stampede - Alberta, the Whistler World Ski and Snowboard Festival- B.C, and Montreal International Jazz Festival - Montreal.”

Highlighting one or more of Hong Kong's core appeals has been the agenda of HKTB. Hoslin mentions that the tourism board will be rolling out altogether 10 major campaigns featuring diverse portfolio of events during the year. HKTB has been actively developing India as a new market to open up new visitor sources. Talking about few unique selling points of the destination, he reveals, “Hong Kong is known for major cultural and amusement events, glitzy Christmas displays, the lighting up of Victoria Harbour, markets and special Christmas

sales, and specially prepared Christmas dinners in hotels and restaurants. The resplendent Victoria Harbour is the belle of the ball for Hong Kong’s spectacular New Year countdown. A party atmosphere reigns supreme as an eight-minute pyromusical display lights up the skies above the iconic Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. Our tourism arrivals reported satisfactory growth during the first ten months of the year 2013 with 12.3 per cent growth compared to last year.

Visitor arrivals from India for the first 10 months of 2013 recorded a 4.2 per cent increase as compared to same period of 2012.”

San Jeet, market representative - India, Philippines Tourism mentions, “In 2012, the Philippines recorded 4.27 million tourist arrivals after the Department of Tourism launched a widely publicised tourism marketing campaign titled 'It's More Fun in the Philippines'. In a recent survey the Department of Tourism (DOT) Philippines stated that the country achieved an increase of 11.28 per cent in a period of six months.”

Manoharan Periasamy, director, Tourism Malaysia points out, “The annual festivals like Rainforest Festival, Ramadan, Sabah Fest, Borneo Jazz Festival, etc, celebrate Malaysia's unique blend of cultures and communities. The festivities include traditional performances and colourful parades, showcasing Malaysian arts and crafts and presenting the rich traditions and mouth-watering delicacies of many ethnic groups.

We have observed a substantial growth especially during these festive celebrations. India is a top ten market for Malaysia.

Promotional efforts during the festive season are expected to increase the numbers significantly.

It is also the perfect opportunity to foster greater cooperation between tour operators and members of the tourism fraternity.”

With inputs from Steena Joy

DESTINATION WATCH

Quintessential Puglia Puglia showcases a distinctive architectural legacy which finds its best representation in the basilicas, cathedrals and churches that abound in its many towns including the Basilica of Saint Nicholas who is associated with Santa Claus and Christmas. From walled cities to seaside townships, the quintessential charm of the region is as varied as its many tourism highlights. By Sudipta Dev

C

Commonly referred to as 'the high heel' on the boot of Italy, Puglia is located on the southern-most tip of the Italian peninsula. It is a region of interesting architectural heritage, and no other city typifies it more than Lecce, which is popularly known as the 'The Florence of the South'. And in no small measures the city lives up to the appellation. The labyrinthine lanes of the walled city showcases many fascinating facets of Baroque architectural legacy with Moresque influence. Before entering the fortified walls of the ancient city, the most striking landmark that greets the eye is the towering white obelisk. The walled city itself is home to many residential palaces and almost every corner throws up fascinating architectural features. Lecce is reportedly home to a hundred churches, some of the best known being Church of the Holy Cross, Lecce Cathedral, and the Church of San Niccolò and Cataldo. One of the interesting facets is the ubiquitous reminders of Lecce's patron saint - Saint Oronzo, whose blessings had kept the plague away. The city recently got back the restored painting of Saint Oronzo stepping on a man who represented the Black Death.

The second century Roman

amphitheatre that has partly been excavated is yet another interesting landmark. A large section of the amphitheatre still lies beneath the streets and buildings and cannot be excavated. A few logistic essentials - in Lecce

independent travellers have to leave their car at the checkpoint and take the shuttle bus into the city (for one euro). This arrangement has been made by the city authorities to avoid parking problems. Buses have to also

take special permission to park in the city, however if the bus just passes through, no permission is needed.

Apart from its distinctive architectural legacy, Lecce is a well known centre of paper mache

craft, the miniature figures ranging from nativity scenes to depiction of everyday life of common people, show life-like perfection. For most visitors, these paper mache creations are a must-have momento to be

25 EXPRESS TRAVELWORLD December 2013

showcased in their homes to relive the memories of their visit to Lecce.

mains are displayed in glass cases in the Cathedral of Otranto, which is built on the highest part of the city. The Architectural highlights most distinctive aspect of the A short drive away from cathedral is its mosaic flooring Lecce is the sleepy little town- of 1160 that depicts the Tree of ship of Galatina that is famous Life. Different scenes are defor, not surprisingly, its Basilica picted on different branches, indi Santa Caterina d'Alessan- cluding pagan and symbolic eledria. Maintained by Franciscan ments. monks, the basilica is a great A panoramic drive along the draw for tourists because of its Adriatic coast takes one to fascinating frescos that cover Santa Maria di Leuca, which is the walls and ceiling. The facade the southernmost tip of the of the structure has Greek/ Is- Salento peninsula, where the lamic architectural influence. waters of Adriatic Sea merge Among the culinary highlights with that of the Ionian. The of the region is the Pasticciotto, basilica and lighthouse are the the famous pastry of Salento, two most important edifices in which is the favourite dessert of this picturesque little town. The locals and visitors alike. region is also home to the enigSalento is at the southern- matic pizzica and tarantella folk most part of Puglia. It is a flat dance forms. land, dotted with some hills. The The trulli houses of Itria Valgeological characteristic of ley draw visitors from across Salento is made up of new stone, the world to explore its quaint which is softer, but brittle. Sur- towns like Alberobello. A UNrounded by sea on three sides, it ESCO World Heritage site, the is touched by two seas – dry stone huts have a the Adriatic on the conical roof. A walk right and Ionian on through the REACHING the left. Both lanes offer an THERE coasts are very interesting inTurkish Airlines has daily different. sight into the flights to Naples via There are lives of the Istanbul. Bari is a little many caves on many resimore than three hours the coastline dents who drive from Naples while and innumercontinue to Lecce takes almost five able creeks. live in these hours to reach.

Otranto is the huts, a few of eastern most city of which also provide Italy. The seaside, walled city B&B accommodation to has great historical significance tourists. from the time of the Romans The white city of Ostuni who made it the departure port rests majestically on its ramfor Africa and other destina- parts overlooking the large tions. The Byzantine later ar- green stretches of olive trees rived here followed by the Nor- that merge into the horizon. The mans. In the 15th century when landscape of Puglia is in fact the Ottoman Turkish fleet cap- synonymous with olive trees. tured the city, the 800 Catholics Also known as the land of extra who were beheaded have re- virgin olive oil there are reportcently (May 2013) been be- edly over 60 million olive trees stowed sainthood. Their re- here, many of which can date

back to two millenia. Primarily an agricultural economy, Puglia region's wine has been gradually gaining in popularity. One of the largest wine producing regions in Italy, the grape varieties that produce the best wines are Negroamaro and Primitivo. A visit to a winery is an essential inclusion in the itinerary of every tourist – to understand the true ethos of the land.

Puglia's capital Bari is an education hub attracting mostly students from other European countries like Spain and Poland.

Not surprisingly, it is also the most bustling city and an interesting shopping destination, where you would not be deprived of a good bargain. The important buildings in the city include the Basilica of Saint Nicholas, Bari Cathedral and the Swabian Castle. The old town is a fascinating melange of sights and sounds that would remain with you long after you are back home.

Apart from its distinctive architectural legacy, Lecce is a well known centre of paper mache craft, the miniature figures ranging from nativity scenes to depiction of everyday life of common people, show life-like perfection

26

EXPRESS TRAVELWORLD

December 2013

CITY WATCH The recent infrastructural developments in Jaipur have led to an influx of hotel rooms, higher than the demand leading to a temporary war on ARRs. However, the mid and luxury segment of hotels in the Pink City continue to maintain their share of the market

By Rituparna Chatterjee

In the pink of condition J

aipur, an important city in the tourist circuit of the Golden Triangle, has been one of India's primary leisure destinations. The city has some of the country's oldest and renowned hotels catering to a number of domestic and international travellers.

The improved connectivity to Jaipur from Gurgaon and NCR, has given rise to a number of MICE travellers visiting the city in the recent past. Thus Jaipur is not only an ideal leisure and a wedding destination but is also an emerging MICE location. According to HVS Indian Hotel Survey 2011-2012, Jaipur has witnessed a fairly large increase in the number of rooms. Approximately 500 new hotel rooms were added to the market in 2011/12 as compared to 82 in 2010/11. Furthermore, approximately 1,000 more hotel rooms are expected to enter the market by 2014/15. “There has been an increase in supply in the market over the past two years. What is interesting is that the occupancy

levels aren't really picking up. So the increase in supply has absorbed the increase in demand.

The good thing is that the market is very stable and there is a projection of growth as well,” states Aditya Shamsher Malla, general manager, Four Points By Sheraton Jaipur, City Square.

Continuous growth This continuous growth in the hospitality sector of Jaipur has been a result of its recent infrastructure and connectivity developments. Since the official announcement of Jaipur as a Counter-Magnet area in July of this year to ease the population pressure from New Delhi to Jaipur, the state government has made several proposals, including industrial developments.

The Delhi-Jaipur Expressway project, which is part of this developmental plan, is at the working stage at present and is expected to cut travel time between the two cities by two hours. This will bring in more travellers from the capital city to

Currently Jaipur has surplus inventory which will continue over the next two years but business will also increase proportionately

Jaipur. “Continuous growth has been happening for the last two years and it will continue for another two years because of the realisation of the fact that in years to come Jaipur will become another NCR. The DelhiMumbai corridor that is being developed by the government will bring a lot of business to Jaipur. Another fact that we have not been able to realise is that perhaps in a couple of years to come, Delhi airport will become saturated and Jaipur airport will become fully operational as an international airport. Currently Jaipur has surplus inventory which will continue over the next two years but business will also increase proportionately and hotels will get their share of business. Also Jaipur will be another corporate hub in the next four to five years,” explains Avneesh K Mathur, general manager, Country Inn & Suites by Carlson, Jaipur.

Though the wedding and leisure segment form an integral

27 EXPRESS TRAVELWORLD December 2013

part of Jaipur tourism, the MICE business is also showing potential growth. The recently launched Hotel ibis Jaipur, a mid market business hotel from the Accor brand is in response to this growing demand. “80 per cent of growth that is seen in the last two years has been from the MICE segment. Jaipur which was not able to hold large congresses and conventions for want of rooms, now has large number of rooms, halls available.

The seating capacity has been expanded. In addition, this growth has been fueled by domestic travellers,” opines Sunil Gupta, general manager, ITC Rajputana, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Jaipur. Currently, more of domestic tourists than international tourists are seen visiting the city. The international travellers visit the city during the winter months while business travellers come in during the offseason. The leisure segment are seen coming throughout the year. “In 2007, there were 70 per cent foreign travellers and 30 per cent domestic travellers visiting Jaipur. In 2013, there has been 40 per cent foreign travelllers and 60 per cent domestic travellers,” adds Gupta. The large number of domestic traveller are mainly coming from surrounding states and cities like Gujarat, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad and Chennai.

Fighting competition This increase in the supply of hotel rooms has led to a temporary war on ARRs. “The entire market is a supply surplus market and the supply over the last two years has completely outpaced the demand and hotels are really happy about their occupancies which is about 55 to 60 per cent. The ARRs have also dropped to certain levels, the RevPAR will stagnate over the next two years before we see an upward trend. And there is still some more inventory that will open in the next two years,” reveals Manish Kakkar, manager, Hotel ibis Jaipur. “In the last two years we have seen depleting ARRs. There is so much competition that we are not keeping in

28 EXPRESS TRAVELWORLD December 2013

mind the expenses, the cost of managing the hotel. Some hotels will see no GOPs. It is essential for us to keep in mind the operating cost, the human resource cost, the F&B cost, etc. There has to be a balance between room tariffs and volume. The key to success is if we maintain and improve our services and the property.

Also training will play an important role because we will see a lot of attrition. The GOPs will come through RevPAR. In today's scenario, we need to have better RevPAR and focus less on ARR. Simultaneously while focusing on RevPAR, we should not ignore the bottomline. Continuous sales efforts and innovative marketing campaign will help maintain the business of the hotel,” iterates Mathur.

Despite the war rates, both the mid-segment and luxury hotels are having their own share of guests. The mid-segment hotels are getting a large share of middle to upper segment travellers because of their reasonable pricing and the availability of more rooms as compared to luxury hotels. Luxury hotels are more open to guests who want to have an experiential holiday.

However, the days in a luxury hotel are limited to an average of one or two nights as compared to mid-segment hotels where the average stay is somewhere between three to six nights. “The mid-segment is robust and strong. Luxury hotels have a bit of a challenge in sustaining room rates but I don't think volume has been a problem there. There might be many palace hotels, but their inventory is limited. The footfalls are much higher in Jaipur. Hotels like us have their select patronage while palace hotels also have their own charm,” explains Malla. Gupta agrees, “Demand for luxury hotels will definitely grow. Rajasthan is based on royalty. Anybody who comes wants to see the royalty. As far as the midsegment is concerned, the volumes will continue to grow there. Luxury hotels are definitely here to stay for those who want to have an experiential holiday.”

Avneesh K Mathur

Manish Kakkar

Sunil Gupta

Aditya Shamsher Malla

IN FOCUS

A global partnership Organised by India Center Foundation, IJGPS 2013 to be held in December in Greater Noida, with a focus on the tourism sector expects to draw around 5,000 delegates

BY NIHARIKA SHUKLA

A

s part of an initiative of India Center Foundation (ICF) which aims to look at partnership and co-operation not just between India and Japan but also between different nations within Asia and the world, the India-Japan Global Partnership Summit (IJGPS) will be held from December 15 -18 2013, at Greater Noida. Formulating socio-economic framework based on energy efficiency, environmental responsibility and sustainability will be the objective of the summit this year. Apart from agriculture, education and infrastructure focus will be on the tourism sector as well.

ICF plans to achieve a better growth in the tourism sector with efforts towards the development of infrastructure which forms the basic root of growth in this sector.

IJGPS 2013 will act as a major tool of discussion on the partnership between the two nations to develop infrastructure, tourism facilities and well connected mass transportation system to all the Buddhist nodes in India and throughout Asia which will be called the Trans-Asian Buddhist Circuit initiative. The Summit will include a plenary discussion on this circuit; a breakout session on Infrastructure and Investment followed by two breakout sessions on Japan India- Million

30 EXPRESS TRAVELWORLD December 2013

Tourist Exchange and Golf – A Global Bond. Lastly, a roundtable session will be held on promotion of socio-economic tourism infrastructure. The summit will also provide a platform for discussion and execution of 'Tourism from now on' to seek cooperation and potential development in the tourism sector.

Some of the expected speakers at the summit include Dr Manmohan Singh, prime minister, India; Shinzo Abe, prime minister, Japan; Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, president, Liberia; Akhilesh Yadav, chief minister, UP; Sheila Dixit, chief minister, Delhi; Kabil Sibal, minister of commerce and IT, India; Anil Ambani, group chairman & CEO, Reliance group; Toshihiro Nikai, former minister, economy, trade and industry; Lakshmi Mittal, chairman & CEO, ArcelorMittal; M D Nalapat, director, geopolitics and international relations, UNESCO Peace Chair and S Gopalakrishnan, president, Confederation of Indian Industry (CII).

“India and Japan have been working continuosly as partners for the development at various sectors. Both these nations share democratic and socio-cultural values. The two nations have a strong potential to derive a unique socio-economic growth. We have been making every effort to make the Summit successful and

work towards the development of infrastructure and tourism which forms an important part of the economy.

India and Japan have set a great example for the entire world with their partnership.

The PPP model in tourism infrastructure which we have adopted focusing on public and private sector strategy, points towards a new socio economic framework for both countries and rest of the world. Other than this we are have also initiated the development of Trans-Asian Buddhist Circuit nodes which needs to be evolved. The new development model of Delhi Mumbai Industrial Corridor will also be looked at focusing on its

economic opportunities and social challenges. We hope to witness a great attendance this year which will enable us to look at key focus areas more deeply” says Vaibhav Kant Upadhyay, chairman, ICF. Working under the guiding principle of R-M-E, the ICF advocates building up of a strong relationship followed by deliberations to devise a mechanism to bring about effective execution leading to social empowerment, holistic and robust economy. ICF aims to develop a global market of this framework for India, Japan and the other nations.

The focus areas of discussions this year at IJGPS will be tourism; agro-economy; art,

media and culture; banking and finance; industrial co-operations; healthcare; energy security; information and communication technology; education and skill development and infrastructure and logistics. The areas within tourism which will be looked upon in the summit include pilgrimage tourism, eco tourism, medical tourism, film tourism, wellness tourism, MICE tourism, golf tourism and wildlife tourism.

IJGPS 2011 which was held in Tokyo witnessed participation from India, Japan, Singapore, Vietnam, Indonesia, United States, United Kingdom, Switzerland, Canada and Nepal.

SPOTLIGHT

Truly Mega With an aim to change the image of Kuala Lumpur from a transit destination to a holiday destination, Tourism Malaysia has been continuously working to create newer tourism offerings with shopping tourism being the priority agenda. By Kahini Chakraborty

F

ROM DESIGNER labels to high-street fashion and streetsmart shopping, everyone can strike a good bargain and take pride in 'shopping till they drop' in Malaysia with its year end sales back again. The ongoing 1Malaysia Year End Sale (1MYES 2013) which will con-

tinue till January 4, 2014 provides visitors and locals unbelievable discounts, bargains and promotions.

Positioning Malaysia as a duty-free shopping destination for tourist goods is one of the three entry point projects (EPPs) which have been undertaken to increase shopping receipts to 35 per cent by 2020, under the Malaysia Tourism Transformation Plan (MTTP). Furthermore,

this move is part of the Malaysian government’s efforts to enhance the country’s position as a destination for duty-free shopping.

Kuala Lumpur has been ranked as the second best shopping destination in Asia Pacific by Globe Shopper Index, a survey by the Economist Intelligence Unit based in Switzerland and was also ranked as the fourth best shopping city in the world in a

survey by CNN Travel. Some of the famous malls which every shopaholic must visit are Bukit Bintang Kuala Lumpur City Centre (BBKLCC), Pavilion KL, Suria KLCC and more.

In order to highlight the destination's tourism offerings, Tourism Malaysia recently launched the 1 Malaysia Year End Sale 2013 (1MYES 2013) in Kuala Lumpur wherein about 200 trade and

Y B Dato

media delegates from 23 countries were present for the Mega Familiarisation programme. Addressing the gathering, Noraza Yusof, general manager, Kuala Lumpur Tourism Action Council said, “We want to change the image of Kuala Lumpur from a transit destination to a four-day holiday destination. We are trying to create new tourism product offerings. We are looking at introducing a new

31 EXPRESS TRAVELWORLD December 2013

Positioning Malaysia as a duty-free shopping destination for tourist goods is one of the three entry point projects to increase shopping receipts to 35 per cent by 2020 destination - Sungai Penchala where travellers can experience real Malay life. For the luxury segment we will be offering Kuala Lumpur helicopter city tours. We have two helicopters which will start operations early next year.”

Last year the destination received 25.03 million travellers and by next year it hopes to touch 28 million travellers. Dato Abdul Khani Daud, director of advertising division, Tourism Malaysia said, “Our aim is to bring in more tourists to uplift our economy. In 2012 we received US$ 19 billion and by 2020 we aim to increase our tourist numbers to 36 million and earn a tourism revenue of US$ 55 billion.

Our source markets include: Singapore, Indonesia, China, Thailand, Brunei, India, Phillipines, Australia, Japan and UK.” YB Dato Seri Mohamed Nazri bin Abdul Aziz, minister of tourism and culture, Malaysia informed, “This year's 1MYES 2013 is more exciting with sale discounts ranging from 30-70 per cent and other offers from more than 2,000 retail participants this year. It was great to kickstart 1MYES 2013 with special showcase of British and Malaysian fashion labels during the Kuala Lumpur fashion weekend. Shopping is an important revenue generating sector for the travel industry.

On the international shopping scene, Brazil Russia, India and China are known to be shopaholics and the shopping tourism trend is being driven from luxury products. In terms of outbound growth of shopping spending - China is

32 EXPRESS TRAVELWORLD December 2013

leading with 15 per cent and Asia Pacific countries are projected to dominate shopping tourism with India, Vietnam and Taiwan showing significant increase. Shopping tourism is a booming sector and Malaysia intends to tap this potential. We have shown great success in retail and tourism sector, especially with our year end sales campaigns.

In 2012, shopping revenue registered was RM 18.56 billion, an increase of 5.5 per cent from 2011 which was 17.5 billion. Shopping constituted about 30.7 per cent of total tourist expenditure in 2012 compared to 30 per cent in 2011. Shopping malls have been second biggest share of tourist expenditure after the accomodation sector, making it a lucrative sector for Malaysia's tourism industry. I am confident that Malaysia's shopping tourism will continue to grow rapidly in the

coming years on the back of increasing promotional activities by the government and private sector.“ Malaysia will be hosting the Visit Malaysia Year (VMY) in 2014, and an endangered animal, the proboscis monkey, as the mascot.

Malaysia hopes this will instill interest among travellers to appreciate nature as a national tourism asset.

TRAINING

Cockpit challenges Boeing projects that airlines in the Middle East will need nearly 100,000 new pilots and technicians to support the expanding demand for new airplane deliveries over the next two decades

T

HE 2013 BOEING Pilot & Technician Outlook, an industry forecast of aviation personnel demand, calls for 192,300 new commercial airline pilots and 215,300 new technicians in the Asia Pacific region through 2032. Northeast Asia, including Korea, will need 18,500 pilots and 25,500 technicians With the aviation industry in the Middle East growing faster than the world average, the Boeing outlook predicts the region will require 40,000 pilots and 53,100 technicians over the next 20 years.

"We're seeing a significant, urgent need for competent aviation personnel in the Middle East and across the globe due to the growth in airline fleets," says Sherry Carbary, vice president of Boeing Flight Services.

"We are working hard with airlines, regulators, independent flight schools and other industry groups to make training accessible, affordable and efficient so that anyone in the Middle East—or anywhere else in the world - who qualifies can become a pilot or maintenance technician in this high-tech industry,� she adds.

For the Middle East region an average of 2,000 new pilots and more than 2,600 new airline technicians will be needed each year to meet the expected demand. The 2013 global outlook projects significant increases in pilot demand - compared to previous forecasts - in all regions except Europe, which declined slightly over last year's outlook.

Overall, the demand is driven by steadily increasing airplane de-

liveries. In the Middle East, more than 60 per cent of the pilot demand will be driven by increased deliveries of widebody airplanes.

In terms of demand for technicians, the introduction of more efficient and smarter airplanes will require fewer mechanics over time, as aging aircraft - which typically require more maintenance - are retired from service. New airplane technologies featuring more advanced components are likely to lead in some areas to lower maintenance requirements and corresponding

lower technician demand.

"This is an issue that has the attention of the entire aviation industry. To attract a new generation of pilots and technicians, we need to train them in new ways. At Boeing, we are continually looking at innovative training methods, moving away from paper and chalkboardbased learning to incorporate tablets, eBooks, gaming technology and three- imensional electronic modeling techniques. We need to make sure aviation is as great a career option for the world's youth as it is for us," says Carbary.

We need to make sure aviation is as great a career option for the world's youth as it is for us

Breaking new ground Boeing is joining hands with Incheon and Korean Air for construction of Korea's largest new aviation training facility to be located in Incheon's Free Economic Zone (IFEZ). The new campus, which is slated to open in 2015, will allow Boeing to expand the scope of its training business in Korea and continue its long-standing training relationship with Korean Air. "Boeing is very pleased to participate in the continuous development of Incheon's Free Economic Zone with this project to expand aviation training capabilities in Korea," says Sherry Carbary, vice president, Boeing Flight Services. "Boeing and Korean Air have a training relationship spanning almost 15 years. We look forward to con-

tinuing our collaboration with Korean Air as we together to develop advanced aviation training programmes from a new base in Incheon," she adds.

The facility, once complete, will house 12 full-flight simulators for pilot training programs supporting Korean Air's flight training needs. "This marks yet another milestone in our mutually beneficial 40-year relationship with Korean Air. This new training facility truly demonstrates Boeing's leading role in enhancing Korea's commercial aviation industry and we look forward to growing our local footprint in Korea," says Pat Gaines, president of Boeing Korea. Once the campus is complete, Boeing will relocate its existing training support staff and equipment to the new facility.

33 EXPRESS TRAVELWORLD December 2013

MOVEMENTS ATTOI Association of Tourism Trade Organisations, India (ATTOI) has elected ANISH KUMAR P K, CEO of

(India) and MAE CHEAH as director of sales (Asia). In his new role as director of sales for India, Temkar will be responsible for enhancing sales growth in India, including

Oman Convention & Exhibition Centre

Steven Ridolfi

Anish Kumar

Mae Cheah

Sreekumara Menon

business development and portfolio management. Likewise Cheah will be responsible for increasing sales growth within South East Asia, especially the key markets of Singapore, Malaysia, India and Philippines. She will also manage major key accounts, create innovative marketing strategies and enhance business development within the region.

The Travel Planners as president; SREEKUMARA MENON, managing director of Chalukya Grace Tours as secretary; and CHANDRA SENAN, managing director of Cosmos Tours & Travels as treasurer.

Etihad Airways

Bombardier Aerospace has appointed ERIC MARTEL as president, Bombardier

Etihad Airways has appointed JEFFREY LIM as general manager, Singapore, and DAVID WALSH as general manager, Malaysia. Lim worked for three years as Etihad Airways’ general manager, Malaysia. A Singaporean national, he takes on the role in Singapore following the retirement of industry veteran Michael Tan who held this key position in the airline’s Asia Pacific commercial organisation for the past six years.

Walsh succeeds Lim in the role of general manager, Malaysia.

Eric Martel

Trafalgar has appointed two new members into its Trafalgar Asia office, SANJAY TEMKAR as director of sales

34 EXPRESS TRAVELWORLD December 2013

MICHEL OUELLETTE as president, Bombardier Customer Services and Specialised and Amphibious Aircraft. All these appointments are effective January 1, 2014.

Bombardier

Trafalgar

Sanjay Temkar

Michel Ouellette

Business Aircraft. Martel succeeds STEVEN RIDOLFI, who was appointed as senior VP, strategy and mergers and acquisitions, Bombardier Inc, reporting to Pierre Beaudoin, president and CEO, Bombardier Inc. Following Martel's nomination, Bombardier Aerospace has appointed

TREVOR MCCARTNEY has been appointed general manager of Oman Convention & Exhibition Centre. McCartney was previously director of business development at Qatar National Convention Centre, a role he has held since June 2011. Before his appointment in Qatar, McCartney was chief executive at Borneo Convention Centre Kuching, Malaysia for three years and director of international sales and operations at Pattaya

private jet division. Qatar Executive has further appointed ROBERTO HLACA as VP sales, marketing and strategy and CAPTAIN PETER RESTING as VP, flight operations.

Singapore Airlines Singapore Airlines has announced the appointment of DAVID LAU as the new GM India. He will be taking over from his predecessor G M Toh, effective December 1, 2013. Lau will be managing the India operations of both - Sin-

Exhibition and Convention Hall, Thailand for a further three years.

SITA China SITA China has appointed MAY ZHOU as VP and general manager. Zhou spent six years at SITA as commercial director with responsibility for managing the sales team for SITA China. She was also chief operating officer at InfoSky, SITA’s joint venture with TravelSky in China.

IATA The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has announced the appointment of RAPHAEL KUUCHI as the association’s VP for Africa from February 17, 2014. Kuuchi joins IATA from the African Airlines Association (AFRAA) where he was the director of commercial, corporate and industry affairs, based at AFRAA headquarters in Nairobi, Kenya.

PATA

Qatar Airways

David Lau

Qatar Airways has appointed DAVID EDWARDS as executive VP of its corporate jet arm, Qatar Executive. Edwards will be responsible for guiding all strategic, commercial and operational aspects of the airline’s

gapore Airlines and its fullservice regional carrier SilkAir. Lau started his career with Singapore Airlines in the Human Resources division.

PATA has appointed BO WU as regional director-China, effective December 30, 2013. Wu replaces KATE CHANG, who served in the position for eight years, and who has been invited to assume the position of chairperson of the PATA China Chapter next year.

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E V E N T S

FUN-FILLED EXHIBITION L-R: Bai Wei, GM, Heilongjiang Provincial Ice and Snow Art Development; Huang Hang Qian, director-general, Department of General Affairs of the Office of the Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People's Republic of China in Macao; Edward Tracy, president and CEO, Sands China; Maria Helena de Senna Fernandes, director, Macau Government Tourist Office; Mark McWhinnie, Sr VP, operations, The Venetian Macao Resort Hotel and Sands Cotai Central; and Tigress from Kung Fu Panda movie at the opening ceremony of the annual exhibition 'Ice World with the DreamWorks Gang' held in The Venetian Macao

ATTRACTING YOUTH L-R: Shibani Phadkar, senior vice president and head leisure travel (outbound) products, contracting, operations and tour management, Thomas Cook (India) with Norbert Kettner, director, Vienna Tourist Board at the partnership agreement to target young travellers to visit Vienna

TRADITIONAL WELCOME Passengers of Sea Dream Yacht Club, which docked for the first time at Mormugao Port in Goa, received a traditional welcome reception with Goan music organised by Goa Tourism, Government of Goa

ENCOURAGING EDUCATION L-R: Andrew Soper, counsellor - prosperity, British High Commission, New Delhi and Rob Lynes, director, British Council India at the launch of GREAT Scholarship programme and GREAT Career Guide in Mumbai

WAVE FROM JAPAN L-R: Shigmaro Yasui, chairman, Japan India Industry Promotion Association, Kensuke Tomita; director general commerce and information - policy bureau, Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry; Anand Sharma, minister of commerce and industry, Government of India; Rita Menon, chairman and MD, India Trade Promotion Organisation; and Yasuhisa Kawamura, charg d’ affaires, Embassy of Japan at the Japan Wave Pavilion at the 33rd India International Trade Fair held at Pragati Maidan, New Delhi

AIDING TOURISM L-R: Smita Rawat, group general manager, IRCTC and Vijayeswari, managing director, Ramoji Film City signed an MoU to mutually promote and market their services to increase footfall into Andhra Pradesh and aid inbound tourism

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E V E N T S

CELEBRATING SUCCESS Chhagan Bhujbal, minister of tourism, Government of Maharashtra (left) with Peter Haas, consul general, USA (centre) at a lunch meet to celebrate the success of MTDC’s Diwali event held at Times Square, New York

GIVING WINGS Jet Airways celebrated Children’s Day by operating a Flight of Fantasy S2 9805 in Mumbai for underprivileged and those with special needs as part of its annual community service in collaboration with NGOs - Aseema, Muktangan, Karuna Sharan and Save the Children India and corporate partners GE Volunteers

TAFI IN ISRAEL

The Ministry of Tourism, Government of Israel hosted an exclusive delegation of members from Travel Agents Federation of India (TAFI) to showcase Israel as a premium holiday destination

42 EXPRESS TRAVELWORLD December 2013

REGD.WITH RNI UNDER MAHENG/15993/05, MH/MR/SOUTH-156/2013-15 PUBLISHED 11th OF EVERY MONTH AND POSTED ON 12, 13 & 14 OF EVERY MONTH POSTED AT MUMBAI PATRIKA CHANNEL SORTING OFFICE.