TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY - FEBRUARY 2014 by Prem Sagar

www.tnhindia.in

Issue 05 | Volume V | rnI no.: deleng/2010/33723

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY

I n d I Aâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; s l e A d I n g T r AV e l T r A d e m o n T h ly

Page no.

India gives VoA facility to 180 countries

FA B r u A ry 2 0 1 4 | ` 5 0

34 Cover Story

Page no.

Location is the USP of our hotel: Vineet Mishra

Landmark move, more needs to be done Government of India’s recent decision to liberalize visa process for tourists intending to visit India and to start electronic travel authorization (ETA) is very significant to facilitate arrivals of foreign tourists in the country. Not surprisingly, the Indian tourism industry has unanimously applauded the decision. Definitely the new visa initiatives have addressed some long standing demands of the Indian tourism industry. With its rich cultural diversity, natural resources and great heritages, India has potential to become one of the top ranking tourist destinations in the world. But for different reasons, the country has not been able to tap its tourism potentials substantially. There are many challenges the Indian tourism industry is facing today. Lack of adequate tourism infrastructure remains a perennial problem for the tourism sector. Complicated and exorbitant tax structure is one of the other problems for the Indian tourism industry. Such taxation regime not only creates hurdles for the industry and tourists, but also makes India an expensive destination. Considering the contribution of the tourism industry to the whole economy in terms of jobs-creation, income generation and foreign exchange earnings, governments, both the Union as well as states should accord high priority to the tourism sector to get maximum benefits from it. Going forward, governments should focus on improving tourist infrastructure and simplifying the existing taxation regime for the industry.

Quote of the Month

“

Distance has been no barrier to communication between the people of India and Korea since ancient times, and we are determined to bring them ever closer in the years that lie ahead. The Cultural Centres set up in Seoul and New Delhi have energized people-to-people engagement. Korean tourists are visiting India in increasing numbers. I have conveyed to President Park the decision of the Government of India to extend a ‘tourist visa on arrival facility’ to nationals of the Republic of Korea. We are also exploring the possibility of better civil aviation links.

“

Editor’s Note

Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh Speaking to the media during the recent State Visit of the President of Republic of Korea, in New Delhi

Chart of the Month

source: FhrAI’s Indian hotel Industry survey 2012-2013

owner, Publisher, editor printed: srishti rai at somsons printing works, 1/7, doctor’s lane, gole market, new delhi - 110001, and published at P- 23/90, Connaught Circus, new delhi 110001; Phone no: 011- 47512200.

inside the issue

FeBruAry 2014 | Volume IV | Issue 11

India gives VoA facility to 180 countries

20 22

Indian OTAs focuses on non-air streams to drive revenues Royal Caribbean Internationalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Navigator of the Seas gets Texas-Sized Makeover

Sirpur Dance and Music Festival 2013 concludes

Indian museums should be important tourist destinations: PM

Romantic Adventures in New Zealand

Air passenger demand sees robust growth rates in 2013

Indian hotels maintains 60.4% occupancy in 2011-12: FHRAI

Khyber Himalayan Resort & Spa opens Khyber Spa By L'OCCITANE

4 Thai cities ranked in top 100 city destinations Promising new TAAI-NR team conducts its first meet In Conversation: Location is the USP of our hotel: Vineet Mishra

62 64

Cover Story

In Conversation

Spotlight

India gives VoA facility to 180 countries Visa-on-arrival facility will be extended to citizens of 180 countries at nine airports across the country by the end of the year. Prem Kumar

At present, India provides

system of TVOA and ETA

visa-on-arrival to tourists

could be put into place by Oc-

from 11 countries, which in-

tober, 2014.

clude Finland, the Philip-

•All categories that can

pines, Singapore and Japan.

jeevi has thanked the Prime

be accommodated within the

The government will set up a

n a significant move for

Minister

Manmohan

category “short stay”, i.e.,

website for providing the fa-

Singh, Congress Vice Presi-

stays of 30 days or less should

cility to foreigners, who plan

regime, the government

dent Rahul Gandhi, External

be put under the category of

to visit India as tourists. To

Dr.

recently approved Visa- On-

Affairs

Salman

short term visas. Short term

get a visa, foreign tourists will

Arrival facility, and Electronic

Khurshid, Union Home Minis-

visas will not be extended to

have to apply on the desig-

Minister

Travel Authorization (ETA)

ter Sushil Kumar Shinde, Min-

categories under a negative

nated website along with the

for all countries barring eight

ister of State in the Ministry

list which could include pur-

required fees. They would be

countries, which include Pak-

of Parliamentary Affairs Ra-

poses such as those seeking

granted an electronic version

istan, Iran, Sri Lanka and

jeev

Deputy

paid employment, education

of the visa within three days.

China.

Chairman of Planning Com-

etc. Short term visas would

The tourism industry had

Informing about the decision Rajiv Shukla, Minister

>>>

end of this year.

liberalizing India’s visa

Dr. K.Chiranjeevi Union Minister of State for Tourism

panding the TVOA and initiating the ETA facility. The new

Shukla

mission

and

Montek

Singh

Ahluwalia.

not be extendable beyond 30

consistently been asking for

days.

extending visa on arrival to

of Planning said that the gov-

The decision was taken in

The procedure for ETA

ernment has decided to ex-

a meeting recently convened

would be as follows: (a)

menting on the new initia-

tend

by the Planning Commission

Prospective visitors will apply

tives,

visa-on-arrival

many other countries. ComSubhash

Goyal

tourists from 180 nations. He

that included representatives

online; (b) They will send

President, Indian Association

said that it would take 5-6

from the PMO, ministries of

their two-page visa applica-

of Tour Operators (IATO),

months to put the infrastruc-

home affairs, external affairs

tion to the Bureau of Immigra-

said, “Visa on Arrival from

ture in place. The new deci-

and tourism. In the meeting

tion (BOI) online. It will be

180 countries will increase In-

sion

held under the chairmanship

implemented by the govern-

of Deputy Chairman, Planning

ment from the next tourist

Commission, the following de-

session beginning October.

cisions were taken to relax

expected

The move is expected to boost

the visa stipulations to pro-

tourism sector in the country.

mote tourism:

VoA for 180 countries will increase International Tourist Arrival to India by 25% to 50%. The sooner VoA along with E-Visas is implemented, better it will be for the country because once these are implemented, there will be increase in international tourist arrival.

“

Subhash Goyal, President, IATO

S.M. ShervAni, PreSident, FhRAi

“At a time when we are witnessing the adverse impact of a global and domestic economic slowdown, these measures to simplify visa norms will give a much needed impetus towards leveraging tourism's intrinsic potential to spur job creation and boost our country's foreign exchange earnings.” examined and within three

ternational Tourist Arrival to

days the applicant will be in-

India by 25% to 50%.” Goyal

formed whether or not he/she

expressed happiness on be-

can travel to India. The gov-

half of the entire tourism in-

ernment has agreed to extend

dustry and thanked Dr. K.

ETA to all countries except

Chiranjeevi, Union Minister

the above 8 countries.

of Tourism in general and

The home ministry would no-

•The Tourist Visa on Ar-

tify the decision at an appro-

rival (TVOA) and Electronic

Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata,

priate time. Shukla said the

Travel Authorisation(ETA) fa-

Chennai, Cochin, Hyderabad,

(Tourism, Govt. of India in

decision will give a major

cilities shall be extended to all

Goa and Trivandrum are

particular as without their

boost to the country's tourism

the countries except 8 coun-

among the nine airports

help this historic achievement

sector.

tries - Iran, Iraq, Afghanistan,

where visa-on-arrival and

of Visa of Arrival to 180 coun-

Parvez

Dewan,

Secretary

Union Tourism Minister

Sudan, Somalia, Pakistan, Sri

electronic travel authoriza-

tries would not have been

Dr. K.Chiranjeevi has wel-

Lanka and Nigeria. Ministry

tion to citizens of 180 coun-

possible for which we been re-

comed the decision to relax

of Home Affairs will work out

tries

initially

questing for last 15 years. He

the visa regime of India to

manpower, infrastructure and

implemented. Both facilities

also thanked everyone in the

promote tourism. Dr. Chiran-

other requirements for ex-

will be implemented by the

Ministry of Home Affairs, Min-

FEB RU ARY 2 01 4 | TNH (TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY)

will

Spotlight

>>>

istry of External Affairs and

this historic step and what-

jasthan from 2008 to 2013 and

strong support from the Min-

the Planning Commission. He

ever cooperation Govt. of

the upcoming 7th landmark

istry of Tourism, FHRAI had

specially thanked Dr. Montek

India needs, thousands of our

global tourism event, the In-

been assiduously pursuing

Singh Ahluwalia, Vice Chair-

members will cooperate with

credible India Travel Bazaar

this issue with the Union Min-

man of the Planning Commis-

the government to make this

(IITB), is that this facility is

istry of Home Affairs and we

sion and Pulok Chatterjee,

landmark step a reality in

much-needed and would go a

had emphatically highlighted

Principal Secretary to the

achieving the desired goals.

long way in promoting inflow

that a bold and timely deci-

Prime Minister of India for ac-

Welcoming the new visa-

of foreign tour operators. The

sion will be imperative to en-

cording priority to tourism on

on-arrival announcement by

visa on arrival facility will en-

able us to accomplish the

The new liberalized visa regime has the potential to make India one of the most favoured tourist destinations of the world. This is a well timed move just as the next tourist season sets in. Instead of 11 countries, travelers from 180 countries will get to avail visa-onarrival facility in India.

“

thuse global participants to

vision of doubling our Foreign

attend over 9000 B2B meet-

Tourist Arrivals (FTAs) to 12

ings at the forthcoming IITB," Post the announcement,

Dr Jyotsna Suri, Sr. VP, FICCI & CMD, The Lalit Suri Hospitality Group

>>>

million within the next five years.”

FICCI expects a surge in

According to Shervani, a

global participation at the

seamless and differentiated

IITB scheduled for April 8-9,

visa mechanism to encourage

2014 at New Delhi and ex-

and facilitate foreign tourist

pects over 250 leading foreign

travel is imperative to posi-

tour operators from over 55

tion India as an attractive and

its value in foreign exchange

the Government, Dr Jyotsna

countries to join. ”Available

welcoming destination and

earnings, job creation and

Suri, Sr. Vice President -

data indicates that despite

enhance the global competi-

poverty alleviation.

FICCI and C&MD - The Lalit

'not-so-liberalized

visa

tiveness of our tourism sector.

Goyal further added,

Suri Hospitality Group said,"

regime' last year India re-

“At a time when we are wit-

“The sooner Visa on Arrival

The new liberalized visa

ceived 68.48 lakh foreign visi-

nessing the adverse impact of

along with E-Visas is imple-

regime has the potential to

tors, registering a growth of

a global and domestic eco-

mented, better it will be for

make India one of the most

4.1% over 2012. Once the in-

nomic slowdown, these meas-

the country because once

favoured tourist destinations

frastructure for granting visa-

ures to simplify visa norms

these are implemented, there

of the world. This is a well

on-arrival is put in place India

will give a much needed impe-

will be increase in interna-

timed move just as the next

will not only gain in terms of

tus

The Government’s initiatives of extending Visa on Arrival (VoA) to citizens of 180 countries, and also the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) are till date the most serious efforts undertaken by the government to facilitate foreign tourist arrival in the country.

“

tional tourist arrival between

tourist season sets in. Instead

leveraging

more tourists but it will also

tourism's intrinsic potential to

have positive spin-off on em-

spur job creation and boost

ployments and earnings", Dr

our country's foreign ex-

Suri stated.

change earnings,” said Sher-

Welcoming new measures

S N Srivastava, President & Co-founder, Clarks Inn Group of Hotels

towards

vani,

adding,

“We

look

to liberalize visa facilities for

forward to extending our full

tourists,

support to the Home Ministry

S.M.

Shervani,

President, FHRAI said, “On

and other Government agen-

behalf of FHRAI, I applaud

cies to ensure that the requi-

the historic steps announced

site infrastructure, in terms of

25 to 50%”. He further said,

of 11 countries, travelers from

by the Central Government to

technology and personnel is

“On one side, Government of

180 countries will get to avail

modernize India's tourist visa

expeditiously put in place, so

India was spending millions

visa-on-arrival

regime. We are particularly

that this initiative can be op-

of dollars for promotion of

India." Dr. Suri further said,

grateful that the Government

erationalised well in time be-

tourism, on the other side

"FICCI has been recommend-

has accepted our proposal to

fore the onset of peak tourist season this year.”

facility

when the tourists wanted to

ing steps to promote India as

adopt a system of Electronic

come, they were facing prob-

a natural destination for in-

Travel Authorization, which

lems in getting Indian Visa.”

bound tourism. Our experi-

will offer multiple advantages

ernment’s latest initiatives to-

Goyal mentioned that the en-

ence

global

of speed, efficiency, conven-

wards visa liberalization, S N

tire Executive Committee and

interactions we have organ-

ience and flexibility, while

Srivastava, President & Co-

members of IATO are grateful

ised such as the Great India

minimizing security related

founder, Clarks Inn Group of

to the Government of India for

Travel Bazaaar (GITB) in Ra-

risks.” He further said, “With

Hotels said that the Govern-

through

Commenting on the Gov-

F EB RUAR Y 2014|TNH (TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY)

Trade News

>>>

ment’s initiatives of extending

government’s effort to make

of tourists to India and the

Visa on Arrival (VoA) to citi-

this a reality,” said Srivastava.

procedure should be simplified

ing the policy both for visa on

zens of 180 countries, and also

He further said, “If this initia-

and easy as is the case of Thai

arrival and through electronic

the Electronic Travel Authori-

tive is implemented within the

Visas for Indians. The only

travel confirmation for all of

sation (ETA)- are till date the

set timeframe and backed by

countries which should be

180 countries except 8 coun-

most serious efforts under-

effective implementation than

kept out are those that pose a

tries. The statement further

taken by the government to fa-

what we could witness in

threat to our security.

said that the early initiative on

cilitate foreign tourist arrival

terms of foreign tourist arrival

Talking about the impact

this was taken by the dynamic

in the country.

may be historical, similar to

of the visa on arrival clear-

and visionary minister of

Srivastava

This is a great development that will benefit all leisure destinations that rely on Inbound/International traffic. This initiative will propel International Tourism as getting an Indian Visa is a big challenge according to Tour Operators promoting India.

“

Pradeep Kalra, Sr. Vice President, Sales & Marketing, Sarovar Hotels and Resorts

ance, Surinder Singh Sodhi,

tourism for India, Dr. Chiran-

Senior Vice President & Head,

jeevi. Under his suggestion,

Leisure

(Inbound),

the Tourism Secretary and his

Thomas Cook (India) Ltd “At

Travel

team worked briskly along with

Thomas Cook India, we laud

a high powered committee of

the Government for this posi-

FAITH, the newly formed apex

tive and progressive move. Ex-

body - The Federation of Asso-

tension of the visa on arrival

ciations in Indian Tourism &

(VoA) facility to 180 countries,

Hospitality to generate differ-

together with the introduction

ent scenarios of the impact on

commented that despite some

the growth that India wit-

optimism it is no secret that

nessed between 2003-2007 pe-

of electronic travel authoriza-

foreign exchange earnings and

India tourism has been virtu-

riod when arrival almost

tion (ETA) is indeed wel-

employment accruing from a

ally stranded where it was

doubled from 2,726,000 (2.7

comed,

visa on arrival regime.

some six years ago. “There is

Million) to 5,080,00 (5.08 Mil-

building critical mass-momen-

very little growth to boast of in

lion).”

tum

the last six years when India tourism grew from just over 5

>>>

hospitality industry by approv-

Welcoming the move to liberalize

visa

for

tourists,

and

vital

towards

infusing

much-

They estimated that in the short term scenario India can

needed demand into the under

get an additional 1.5 million

leveraged inbound sector.” He

foreign tourists and USD 4 bil-

Million to 6.8 Million in 2013,”

Pradeep Kalra, Sr. Vice Pres-

added, “Destination India has

lion and in the longer term sce-

Srivastava said.

“Compare

ident, Sales & Marketing,

tremendous latent potential

nario India can target up to 20

this with Thailand when ar-

Sarovar Hotels and Resorts

which these developments will

million

rival of international tourist

said, “This is a great develop-

help tap, however, far more

around USD 36 billion from this

needs to be done by the Gov-

move. This sector in 2012 got

ernment in terms of develop-

6.5 m international tourists and

ing

USD 17 billion plus in foreign

Extension of the VoA facility to 180 countries, together with the introduction of electronic travel authorization (ETA) is indeed welcomed, as vital towards building critical mass-momentum and infusing much-needed demand into the under leveraged inbound sector.

“

Surinder Singh Sodhi, Sr. VP & Head, Leisure Travel (Inbound), Thomas Cook (India) Ltd

infrastructure

and

improving safety measures for

tourists

and

earn

exchange.

our inbound guests. Basic and

India's smaller neighbours

practical measures to ensure

to its east get between them

success of the VoA initiative

around USD 140 billion in for-

would be the presence of

eign exchange from tourism

skilled, multi-lingual man-

and more than 100 million in-

grew from 14.5 Million in 2008

ment that will benefit all

power at arrival airports to as-

ternational tourist arrivals.

has grown to 26.7 Million in

leisure destinations that rely

sist incoming tourist.”

There is a huge market oppor-

2013. The Indian arrival into

on Inbound/International traf-

Federation of Associa-

tunity waiting to be tapped.

Thailand has grown from

fic. This initiative will propel

tions in Indian Tourism and

The tourism sector in India, im-

around 500,000 in 2008 to

International Tourism as get-

Hospitality (FAITH) also wel-

pacts around 40 million jobs

1,050,000 in 2013.” According

ting an Indian Visa is a big

comed new visa initiatives. A

and 7 lakh crores of economic

to Srivastava, this kind of Visa

challenge according to Tour

press statement issued by

output. With a visa friendly

liberalisation is path-breaking

Operators promoting India.”

FAITH said with new revolu-

regime, India's route to macro

and unheard of before. “We

India

tionary steps on visa, India has

- economic gains from tourism

certainly did not expect this to

should open up the Visa on Ar-

changed the rules of the game.

would soon be 'just a ticket'

happen this soon. My sincere

rival for all nations including

It set the ground for revolution-

away.

compliments to industry’s and

UK which is the biggest driver

izing the Indian tourism and

FEB RU ARY 2 01 4 | TNH (TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY)

suggested

that

Trade News

IATO welcomes Narendra Modi’s 5-Ts announcement Subhash Goyal, President, Indian Association of Tour Operators (IATO) has welcomed 5-Ts announcement by BJP Prime Ministerial Candidate Narendra Modi.

reason for happiness for all

Tourism never got recognition

Thailand, Sri Lanka, Malaysia

the

in the Governments Plan

and Hong Kong, as we cannot

travel trade in particular,”

Process. All Successive gov-

match the price on holiday

said Goyal, adding, “At least,

ernments also did not show

packages which they offer due

there is some positive thinking

any priority to tourism though

to high taxation.”

about Tourism by the Policy

tourism’s contribution to GDP

tourism

practitioners,

Goyal said that tourism in-

makers (at PM level) and that

is around 6% and contributes

dustry is quite optimistic that

is urgently needed to boost

nearly 9% of the total employ-

our long pending appeal to de-

our sagging tourism. This

ment. It holds potential to rise

clare tourism as an “Export In-

xpressing his happi-

inter-allia may give more tax

GDP to 10% if the investments

dustry” based on its Foreign

ness over Modi’s an-

incentives to tourism sector”.

are made in tourism sector

Exchange Earnings will get

nouncement at the

If all the Political Parties give

and it can give the boost for

priority attention and all such

recent meeting of the National

priority to tourism in their Po-

Foreign Exchange earnings.”

benefits as given to other ex-

Council,

litical Agenda, tourism can re-

Goyal said that at the first op-

port oriented industries will be

Goyal

said

that

tourism gets priority vision for

ally

for

portunity, Tourism Sector is

extended to tourism sector

the country. He also appeals

development of our country by

taxed. “With the result, India is

also. This will also boost in-

the

engine

to all Political Parties to in-

creating more employment

termed as Tax Loaded Coun-

vestments in tourism related

clude tourism in the Political

even in distant areas and gen-

try for Tourism Sector and in

activities mainly Accommoda-

Agenda and Manifesto. “The

erating foreign exchange earn-

turn which has made India

tion, Transport, Airport, Hos-

BJP’s Prime Ministerial candi-

ings.

Goyal further said,

Holiday Packages Cost Prohib-

pital, Conference Centers on

date Narendra Modi focusing

“Since the beginning of the

itive. We lose business to our

which tourism growth depend

on tourism in his 5-Ts is a big

Five Year Plan in 1951,

neighboring countries like

in a big way.

by TNH DESK

F EB RUAR Y 2014|TNH (TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY)

Trade News

Thomas Cook (India) & Sterling Holiday Resorts (India) announce merger Thomas Cook (India) Ltd. (TCIL) - India’s leading integrated travel and travel related financial services company, and the 27 year old vacation ownership pioneer, Sterling Holiday Resorts India Limited announced a merger between the companies today. The transaction is expected to close by the fourth quarter of 2014, subject to customary closing conditions and regulatory approvals as required.

he part equity, part

ratio of 120:100

in mutually beneficial part-

of the commitment and sup-

nerships that broaden our

port of the Board and a core

business services platform to

group of employees who

increase shareholder value.”

stayed the course with us. In

Siddharth Mehta, Chair-

2009, I saw in Bay Capital a

man, Sterling Holiday Re-

partner who was committed

sorts (India) Limited said:

“The last few years have

around and I am pleased that

seen the resurgence of the

together we have brought

turning

the

Company

Sterling brand in the Vaca-

Sterling back into a position

tion Ownership and Leisure

of strength.”

Holidays space. Commenting

Ramesh Ramanathan,

merger deal is struc-

The merger brings signif-

on the merger, Sidharth Sub-

Managing Director, Sterling

tured as a multi

icant synergies to both part-

ramanian, Vice Chairman,

Holiday Resorts (India) Lim-

Sterling

ited stated, “The merger with

stage process: TCIL Group

ners - with Thomas Cook

will make a Preferential Al-

India gaining access to Ster-

lotment Investment for ap-

ling Resorts’ network of 19

proximately of `187 Cr. into

resorts in 16 holiday destina-

Sterling, TCIL Group will

tions across India.

purchase shares from Ster-

The company also has 15

ling shareholders for `176

additional sites where it

Cr., TCIL Group will make a

plans to add new resorts in

mandatory open offer for

the coming years.

`230 Cr. And there will be a

Speaking post the an-

merger between the two

nouncement,

companies at a defined swap

Menon, Managing Director,

MAdhAvAn Menon, MAnAging thoMAS cook (indiA)

director,

“The merger with Thomas cook will strengthen Sterling’s market position as there are multiple natural synergies which both companies will mutually benefit from. Thomas cook customers will have access to our pan-india network of well located, fullservice, quality resorts which oﬀer great holiday experiences.”

Highlights of the merger

Merger focused on synergies and jointly leveraging growing Domestic & Inbound travel, Vacation Ownership & Hospitality opportunities Post merger, Sterling Holiday Resorts to continue operations under the leadership of Ramesh Ramanathan with an independent Board Based on equity investments and merger ratios, the aggregate value of the two companies is approximately ` 3000 Cr.

FEB RU ARY 2 01 4 | TNH (TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY)

Madhavan

Holiday

Resorts

RAMeSh RAMAnAthAn, MAnAging director, Sterling holidAy reSortS (indiA) liMited

Thomas Cook (India) Ltd.,

(India) Limited said, “Ster-

Thomas Cook will strengthen

said: “Ramesh Ramanathan

ling was founded by my fa-

Sterling’s market position as

and his team at Sterling Re-

ther in 1986 and I am proud

there are multiple natural

sorts are veterans who were

that Sterling is widely ac-

synergies which both compa-

instrumental in developing

knowledged as the Company

nies will mutually benefit

the Vacation Ownership cat-

that truly pioneered Vaca-

from. Thomas Cook cus-

egory in India and we are de-

tion Ownership in India. The

tomers will have access to our

lighted to partner them via

success the Company en-

pan-India network of well lo-

this merger! The synergistic

joyed in the first decade of

cated, full-service, quality re-

opportunities that this new

its operations led to the

sorts

partnership

which

offer

great

between

opening up of the industry

holiday experiences. Sterling

Thomas Cook & Sterling Re-

with more players setting up

stands

sorts offers are enormous,

operations. At Sterling, we

Thomas Cook’s iconic brand

benefit

from

because they create multiple

have always been passion-

reputation and TCIL’s large

avenues to grow our respec-

ately committed to our cus-

base of domestic and inbound

tive businesses and to create

tomers. That commitment is

travel customers. There is

valuable business opportuni-

what kept us going during our

also scope to add value to

ties together.” He added: “As

period of strife. I took over

Sterling’s Vacation Owner-

India’s leading integrated

the helm in late 2007 when

ship members through the

travel and travel related fi-

the

going

synergies that exist between

nancial services Company,

through a difficult phase. I

the two companies.” Antique

TCIL’s merger with Sterling

would like to take this oppor-

Group acted as advisor and

Holiday Resorts reaffirms

tunity to publicly acknowl-

ICICI Securities acted as mer-

our

commitment

company

was

our

edge that we managed to

chant banker to Thomas Cook

stated strategy of investing

keep Sterling going because

for this merger.

by TNH DESK

Tech News

ixigo & GSF celebrate the spirit of entrepreneurship! Over 100 budding entrepreneurs, Angels and leading investors join the GSF-ixigo marathon.

founder, ixigo.com. “It is by

meet young and bright minds

ups, people who have ideas

partnering with GSF that we

who have the zest to make it

and the drive to work to-

got the opportunity to en-

big in their respective ven-

wards a start-up and venture

courage

tures. Since ixigo is a suc-

capitalists. TiE came on

young

entrepre-

board as a knowledge part-

Aloke BAjPAi, ceo And co-Founder, ixigo.coM

ixigo.com, India’s leading travel planning and search

“The start-up ecosystem is huge and we at ixigo realize the importance of bringing people together on one platform so they can mutually benefit from each other. A healthy mind starts with a healthy body and that was the clear message we wanted to convey.”

engine, together with GSF, a

ner to promote the event. The run culminated with a healthy breakfast meeting, where participants got the chance to effectively network with each other, share valuable experiences and ex-

leading start-up Accelerator

neurs, and support them in

cessful start-up company

change

program in India organized

their journey. Who knows a

itself, partnering with them

breakfast was sponsored by

a 10km marathon run on

start-up idea that may have

for this event was a natural

Times City.

February 1 in New Delhi. More than 100 budding entrepreneurs along with leading Venture Capitalists and Angels

from

across

the

world came together to learn from each other’s experiences, discuss challenges and find viable solutions to their problems while engag-

tips.

The

ixigo.com is India’s lead-

RAjeSh SAwhney, Founder gSF

ing

“we at gSF are dedicated to encouraging, supporting and funding young entrepreneurs from across the world. The marathon run organized together with ixigo provided us with an opportunity to meet young and bright minds who have the zest to make it big in their respective ventures. Since ixigo is a successful start-up company itself, partnering with them for this event was a natural choice for us.”

ing in a fun, healthy activity. “The start-up ecosystem

useful

travel

planning

and

search website, voted as the Product of the Year 2013, in the

Travel

category.

Launched in 2007 by IIT, INSEAD and Amadeus alumni, ixigo.com’s vision is to simplify the life of travelers through innovative travel products for Internet & mo-

been nurtured via this plat-

choice for us,” said Rajesh

bile. The website searches,

is huge and we at ixigo real-

form today goes on to be-

Sawhney, Founder GSF.

aggregates

ize the importance of bring-

come a big success story

ing people together on one

tomorrow.”

and

curates

The marathon run was

travel information across

flagged off at 7am from San-

hundreds of travel sites and

platform so they can mutu-

“We at GSF are dedicated

jay Van, Qutub Institutional

allow travelers to access rel-

ally benefit from each other.

to encouraging, supporting

Area. To ease the networking

evant information on tourist

A healthy mind starts with a

and funding young entrepre-

activity that was to follow,

destinations, places to visit,

healthy body and that was

neurs from across the world.

special colored bands were

things to do, modes of trans-

the

The marathon run organized

presented to all participants,

port, driving directions, ho-

wanted to convey,” said

together with ixigo provided

clearly differentiating them

tels, restaurants, weather

Aloke Bajpai, CEO and Co-

us with an opportunity to

into three categories; start-

and more.

clear

message

by TNH DESK

F EB RUA R Y 2014|TNH (TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY)

Trade News

Incredible India Golf Tourism Summit 2014 to be held in Delhi In order to promote golf tourism in India, the Ministry of Tourism (MoT), Government of India recently announced the launch of first-ever 'Incredible India Golf Tourism Summit 2014â&#x20AC;&#x2122;, which will be held on October 8-10 this year.

he first-ever 'Incredible

India Golf Tourism Sum-

Hong Kong have shortage of

India as a golf destination ef-

would be picked from the

mit 2014' will be organized by

golf courses and golfers of

fectively in the past and other

promising golf courses, golf

the Ministry of Tourism , Gov-

these nations can come to

markets like Thailand and

tour operators, golf media,

ernment of India in associa-

India and play golf at a com-

Malaysia have an edge over

golf hotels, the most facilitat-

tion with FICCI and with the

paratively low cost, said

India as they started out ear-

ing airlines and a state gov-

support of India Golf Tourism

Dewan. India has 220 golf

lier than us.

ernment promoting golf in a

Association (IGTA). The Sum-

courses, of which 30 are of

However, he said, India of-

mit will be held in New Delhi

professional level and 15 sig-

fers vast experiences in terms

Post the tournament, IGTA

substantial way.

on October 8-10, 2014, which

nature golf courses. Golf

of setting of the golf courses.

would organize FAM trips to

would culminate with an In-

tourism is growing at a rate of

The country has golf courses

golf courses for the hosted

credible India Golf Tourism

9.3% per year and there are

near sea, in high altitudes and

leading foreign tour operators

Award, Incredible India Golf

about 1.6 million golfers who

has some of the oldest and fa-

from across the world that

Tournament and FAM trips to

travel every year to golfing

mous golf courses. Also, the

would come for the summit.

Golf Courses for the hosted

destinations. Hence, there is a

country is a preferred desti-

This will offer a great oppor-

Tour Operators from across

huge opportunity and scope to

nation for cultural tourism

tunity to the willing golf

the world specializing in pro-

promote golf tourism in India.

and wellness tourism and

courses in the country for on-

moting Golf Tourism.

On the occasion, Dewan

these can be tied up with golf

site marketing of their facili-

Ministry of Tourism in as-

also announced that the Mal-

tourism to give both golfing

ties to their target market.

sociation with FICCI and with

divians coming to India for

and tourism a boost, Mr.

the support of India Golf

medical tourism can now

Kumar added.

Tourism

here

travel visa free for up to 90

Dr. Jyotsna Suri, Senior

today organized a conference

days. This comes as a major

Vice President, FICCI, said

of Tourism would be leading

breakthrough for the medical

that the highlight of the sum-

the Tourism Summit in Golf

tourism industry.

mit would be the 12 hours of

and has offered to promote

structured,

pre-scheduled

and facilitate this important

retary Tourism, Government

B2B meetings in the two days

tourism platform. Further the support of the industry, India

Association

'Incredible

India

Golf

Tourism Summit 2014' to promote this niche area of tourism in a substantial way.

Anand Kumar, Joint Sec-

Dr. A Didar Singh, Secretary General, FICCI, said that for the first time the Ministry

The chief guest of the con-

of India, said that India is lo-

between

ference, Parwez Dewan, Sec-

cated strategically and can

handpicked leading foreign

Golf

hosted

industry

Tourism

Association

retary Tourism, Government

cater

European,

tour operators from across 30

lends credence to the summit.

of India, said that the ministry

ASEAN, Japanese and Chi-

countries who specialize in

Rajan Sehgal, President,

promotes the 15 signature golf

nese golf tourism markets

golf tourism with the stake-

IGTA, who moderated the ses-

courses of India at every road

with ease. Also, India offers

holders of this niche area

sion, said, Incredible India

show and opportunity that

competitive pricing and the

from India, besides the inter-

Golf Tourism Summit will

the

arises to attract foreign golf

connectivity within and to

active conclave pondering

highlight the Golf Tourism po-

tourists to India and make the

India has improved consider-

over critical issues on day

tential of India, and go a long

country a preferred golfing

ably, which can help in pro-

one.

way in promoting the golf

destination.

moting golf tourism. But we

Dr. Suri added that Incred-

have not been able to promote

ible India Golf Awardees

Countries like Japan and

FEB RU AR Y 20 1 4| TNH (TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY)

tourism in the country. by TNH DESK

Tech News

Ezeego1.com introduces special offer for Travel Agents Ezeego1.com, a leading online travel search site, has introduced special summer holiday packages for India’s most exotic locations such as Ladakh, Kashmir, Sikkim and Darjeeling.

T >>>

hese are dream pack-

cial packages, families get the

sions such as excursions at

Ezeego1.com said, “The com-

Indus and Zanskar Rivers,

munity of travel agents forms

Indus Valley Monastery tour,

an integral part of what we do,

Sindhu Ghat and the Sand

and how we do it. It is our con-

Dunes in Ladakh packages.

stant endeavour to delight our

These also include overnight

customers with unique pack-

camping at Nubra Valley and

ages and special discounts. In

Pangong Lake. There is a

the same way, we also strive

cricket bat factory tour of-

to make work worthwhile for

ages for not just trav-

chance to avail up to 50% off

fered in the Kashmir package,

every agent associated with

ellers, but for travel agents as

on their child or free upgrades

for cricket lovers.

us and believe in aptly re-

well, who can earn commis-

to deluxe category.

It is our constant endeavour to delight our customers with unique packages and special discounts. In the same way, we also strive to make work worthwhile for every agent associated with us and believe in aptly rewarding the deserving ones.

“

Neelu Singh, COO, Ezeego1.com sion up to `3,000 on each

The family packages are

package. As part of these spe-

bundled with exciting inclu-

warding the deserving ones.” Summer packages offered

for

Kashmir

Tour costs are per person

and

on twin sharing basis and are

•Fascinating Kashmir - 6

hotel accommodation, meals

Nights / 7 Days - Prices start-

as per the itinerary, sightsee-

ing at `30,999

ing, taxes and travel insur-

Ladakh:

inclusive of return airfare,

•Fascinating Ladakh - 7

ance. Ezeego1.com is one of

Nights / 8 Days - Prices start-

its kinds online travel com-

ing at `34,999

pany (Meta search) founded

Speaking on the offer, Neelu

Singh,

COO,

in 2006 which offers all travel related services.

by TNH DESK

F EB RUAR Y 2014|TNH (TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY)

Trade News

Turning over a new leaf in travel insurance Swaati Chaudhury n this era of digital changes,

travel agents in Kolkata some-

increase to 50 per cent in the

and online luggage tracking

time on January 10.

next three to four years’ time.”

facilities. It has been found

assistance

Trawell Tag has on offer

that nearly 2 lakh baggages

travel

back in India, travel insurance

player took off in 2005 and has

one integrated solution under

are lost every month at the

its India operation in Mumbai.

on roof with five distinct

time of global travel. We pro-

With around 50 offices across

travel-related services. Karvat

vide travel tag to outbound In-

the breadth of the country,

said, “We provide medical in-

dian tourists and we have a

Trawell Tag is looking ahead

surance and tourists taking up

tie-up with global airline

to organize similar training

global travel can get in touch

players and ground handlers

workshops across 20 cities of

with us in times of emergency

in order to recover the lost

safe global travel is the

India including Mumbai and

buzzword for global travellers.

New Delhi in this fiscal. Dev

Here’s one-of-a-kind travel an-

Dev Karvat MD, Trawell Tag Cover More

hope the penetration level will

The

Aimed to provide complete insurance cover for outbound Indian travelers, Trawell Tag Cover More has a niche market in the country.

gramme for as many as 350

Karvat, Managing Director,

cillary service player in India-

Trawell Tag Cover More ex-

Trawell Tag Cover More of

plained, “We have held train-

Sydney that is quite deter-

ing workshops in Ahmedabad

mined to take up the safety

and Chennai. The Indian

issue of Indian global trav-

travel industry is growing at a

Snapshot

baggage.” The travel service company prides in having

Services offered by Trawell Tag:

around 7,000 travel agents

•Medical insurance •Travel insurance •Concierge services •Family protection to travellers’ household •Online luggage tracking

travel insurance products.

across India promoting their “For those interested to venture on adventure tours and self-drive, we offer travel in-

ellers since around 80 per cent

rate of single digit. In Aus-

Indian travellers embarking

tralia, the level of penetration

on global travel do not go for

of travel service industry is

travel insurance. With an ef-

quite high at around 65 per

for quick medical help or get

launch Global SIM Card for

fort to raise the awareness

cent. The growth rate of travel

admitted in hospitals with

Indian travellers taking up

among the travel agents about

assistance service in India

cashless facility. Besides, we

global travel. It would be con-

the need for travel insurance,

stands at 50 per cent but the

also have concierge services,

venient for them to use in

surance in association with National Insurance Company. Very soon, we are planning to

Trawell Tag hosted Travel

penetration level is quite low

family protection service for

multiple countries,” added

Agents’

at around 20 per cent. We

travellers’ household staying

Karvat.

4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16, 18 and so

packages are available for

hospitality experience where

on till upper limit of 40.

Belo

Brasilia,

a casual pub-style setting is

Engagement

Pro-

Cox & Kings to promote FIFA’s 2014 World Cup in India

Horizonte,

There are exciting pack-

Cuiaba, Curitiba, Fortaleza,

complemented by up-market

ages for the Aquarela Series,

Manaus, Natal, Porto Alegre,

snacks and a premium selec-

Ticket-inclusive hospitality packages price starting from USD 1150 per person

which has the best-located

Recife, Rio de Janeiro, Sal-

tion of beverages. Positioned

private suites between goal

vador and Sao Paulo. The

in the Leisure Category, this

ox & Kings has an-

lines. The packages offer top-

Match Hospitality Programme

product is available as a Sin-

nounced that it has been

class

offers Category 1 hospitality

gle Match Package, in Venue

awarded the official rights to

Janeiro, Sao Paulo and Belo

suites

for

Rio

tickets for Match Pavilion,

Series and Team Specific Se-

promote hospitality packages

Horizonte. Fans can also

Match Club and Match Pre-

ries.

for FIFA World Cup 2014,

enjoy the Aquarela Business

mier.

which will take place in Brazil

Series at match Private Suites

MATCH Pavilion offers

fans the opportunity to secure

MATCH Premier offers

from 12th June to 13th July,

in Belo Horizonte and private

fans a dedicated, but less for-

their seat at the 2014 FIFA

2014.The match hospitality

area in best match Business

mal, hospitality option in the

World

packages are available in a

Seat Lounge in Rio de Janeiro

Business Category. This is the

MATCH

variety of customized options

and Sao Paulo. Both packages

perfect opportunity to enter-

ticket offers informal hospital-

and include match tickets and

include OM, 2x SF and F.

tain your clients and friends

ity with snacks and bar serv-

Cup

Brazil™

with

Hospitality.

This

food & beverage during the

Cox and Kings also offers

in a shared hospitality area

ice and is ideal for big groups,

match. With prices starting

packages for the venue series

outside the stadium and

families and those who want

from USD 1150 per person,

for those who wish to experi-

watch the match in a real

to relish the excitement of the

match hospitality tickets can

ence FIFA World Cup in a par-

spectator environment.

biggest sporting event in the

be purchased in quantities of

ticular host city. Venue series

FEB RU ARY 2 01 4 | TNH (TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY)

MATCH Club is a shared

world.

by TNH DESK

Trade News

Kuoni-SOTC announces ‘Summer Holiday Bazaar’ in Delhi Kuoni-SOTC has launched the 2014 “Summer Holiday Bazaar” showcasing its summer holiday propositions in Delhi.

Holiday Bazaar include:

Lumpur,

Superstar

Libra

15-Day All of Europe:

Cruise, Penang & Genting

Visit United Kingdom, France,

Highlands. Free Upgrade to

Belgium, Netherlands, Ger-

Ocean View cabin on Cruise.

many, Switzerland, Liechten-

Stay 2 nights inside Sentosa

stein, Austria, Italy & Vatican.

Island, Singapore.

Your Wife pays only 50% or

8-Day

South

African

he 2014 Summer Holiday

the overwhelming response

your child goes absolutely

Splendor: Visit Cape Town,

Bazaar will cover 30

and success attained from our

FREE

Hermanus, Knysna, Sun City,

cities across India. Travellers

previous road shows, we are

16-Day All of USA: Visit

can shop for the best holiday

encouraged to repeat success

New York, Washington DC,

Johannesburg. 3 days Kruger or 4 days Kenya Free.

deals from a choice of destina-

this current year too. The Hol-

Harrisburg, Niagara, Orlando,

10 Days Wonders of Aus-

tions (both International &

iday Bazaar Road show is a

Las Vegas, Los Angeles, San

tralia: Visit Gold Coast, Mel-

Domestic) that offer spectac-

great opportunity to engage

Luis Obispo & San Francisco

bourne,

Cairns,

Sydney.

ular discounts. The key high-

and strengthen our relation-

and get 3-Nights Bahamas

Special All Inclusive Price is

lights at the road show

ship

Cruise FREE and also get

Rs 1,99, 900.

with

our

past

and

include special offers; chance

prospective customers while

FREE Upgrade to Walt Disney

to win free holidays, cash dis-

showcasing our best proposi-

World Swan & Dolphin Resort

Airfare,

counts and free upgrades

tions

inside Disney Theme Parks OR

taxes, visa, travel insurance,

amongst others.

tourism boards and other as-

FREE Upgrade to a Balcony

meals, sightseeing, transfers

sociates”.

Cabin on the Bahamas Cruise

as per itinerary & services of

Deals at the 2014 Summer

Visit

Speaking on the launch

with

support

from

Vishal Suri, CEO-Tour Operating, Kuoni India said, “With

10-Day Oriental Voyage: Singapore,

Kuala

Above Packages include: Accommodation,

our tour manager. by TNH DESK

F EB RUA R Y 2014|TNH (TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY)

Tech News

Airlines, Handlers at Schiphol Airport select SITA for 5 more years SITA technology makes Schiphol first airport in Europe to future proof passenger processing with NFC.

any agent desk, gate position or self-service kiosk for passenger check-in, bag drop and boarding. The Schiphol CLUB’s AirportConnect Open renewal with SITA covers some 700 positions at check-in desks, transfer and reclaim. It also includes 90 commonuse, self-service kiosks, which passengers can use for check in. With virtualization, the airport can run the latest technologies and incorpo-

n organization of 80 airlines and

“As more smart phones incorporate

rate upgrades to its system efficiently

Amsterdam’s

NFC, more airlines will start asking for

and cost-effectively. It also allows air-

Schiphol Airport has chosen IT provider,

this technology. That’s why we have al-

lines to seamlessly operate at any desk,

ground handlers at

SITA, for another five years in a •26.6

ready equipped a gate with NFC and

gate or work station throughout the air-

million deal. The Schiphol CUTE Local

connected it to our common-use passen-

port, which improves the operational en-

User Board (CLUB), which represents

ger processing system—and we’re invit-

vironment and enhances service. More

the airport’s common-use technology

ing airlines to try it.”

than 300 airlines use SITA's AirportCon-

users, has signed a new contract for

Dave Bakker, SITA President, Eu-

SITA’s AirportConnect Openpassenger

DAVE BAKKER, SITA PRESIDENT, EUROPE

processing platform. Deployed in a virtual environment, AirportConnect Open helps provide an efficient journey for the airport’s 52 million annual passengers. With SITA’s expertise in near field communications (NFC), Schiphol has also become the first airport in Europe to “future-proof” its passenger processing platform by connecting it with NFC technology. Using NFC-enabled smartphones, passengers will be able to quickly and easily pass through a spe-

nect Open to process millions of passengers every day in more than 400 airports around the world.

“The Schiphol CLUB is always interested in collaborating on new innovations that improve airport operations and provide better service. AirportConnect Open helps improve operational efficiency and flexibility, while maximizing airport real estate. Combined with NFC, it will help the airport future proof its passenger processing technology and enable passengers to board more quickly.”

cial boarding gate at the airport with the

SITA is also the industry leader in NFC, which allows passengers with smartphones to move through airport checkpoints with a simple tap of their phone. In 2012, the company’s technology research team, SITA Lab, ran the world's first live SIM-based NFC trial at Toulouse-Blagnac Airport in France. Schiphol’s NFC gate marks the first deployment of SITA’s proposed industry standard for NFC. In 2013, SITA introduced the “Tap n' Fly”TM industry stan-

simple tap of their phone. The gate will

rope, said: “The Schiphol CLUB is al-

dard for NFC, which builds on the

automatically

boarding

ways interested in collaborating on new

GSMA’s vision of seamless, secure and

passes, even if their phones are turned

read

their

innovations that improve airport opera-

reliable SIM-based NFC worldwide.

off or out of battery. This same NFC

tions and provide better service. Airport-

Tap n’ Fly combines a common-use

equipment will also read the traditional

Connect Open helps improve operational

applet to store passenger information

two-dimensional boarding passes in use

efficiency and flexibility, while maximiz-

and a standard boarding pass format to

today. Jan Bruns, Chair of the Schiphol

ing airport real estate. Combined with

ensure interoperability, while also allow-

NFC, it will help the airport future proof

ing airlines and airports some cus-

CUTE Local User Board, said: “We’re

its passenger processing technology and

tomization.

currently celebrating more than 25 years

enable

compatible with existing bar-coded

of collaboration with SITA. During this

quickly.”

passengers

board

also

backward

boarded passes.

time, we’ve worked together on many in-

SITA’s AirportConnect Open enables

SITA worked with Access IS, specialists

novations to improve the passenger ex-

airports, airlines and their handling

capturing and transferring information into

perience

common-use

agents to access their respective IT ap-

electronic systems, to certify its NFC read-

technology, self-service solutions and

including

plications in real time on shared equip-

ers with the SITA Tap n’ Fly standard and

now NFC.

ment. It also allows any airline to use

AirportConnect Open.

by TNH DESK

Trade News

parents with either a realis-

Thomas Cook India targets Student Market – launches University Tours Thomas Cook India has launched University Tours in association with The Red Pen.

Educational: Experienced advisors from The Red Pen, India’s premier university admissions advising firm accompanies the group on all admissions-related tours/ information sessions to ensure appropriate contextualization for Indian applicants Customized sessions and workshops at select universities Pre-departure workshop with parents and students Educational Workshops Conducted On Tour Post-return individualized Counseling Travel related: Visa, flight (international and internal U.S.A) and hotel accommodation (3-4 star properties) Round-trip coach and daily local transportation Entrance to attractions and activities Daily breakfast and dinner (vegetarian & non-vegetarian options) Optional add-ons: full time tour from TCIL, supplemental travel insurance, lunch accommodation (veg/nonvegetarian), customized tour extensions

Travels,

one

the

largest travel and tour agents

sity, New York University

To bridge this gap, Thomas

(NYU) and Princeton Univer-

Cook India’s ‘Travel & Learn’

sity.

product team had hence cre-

Shibani Phadkar, Senior

ated specialized University

Vice President & Head Leisure Travel (Outbound)

glimpse into university life

Products,

India’s

experiences with visits to US

(India) Ltd. said: “Education

grated travel and travel re-

colleges, insightful interac-

has always been a strong and

lated

services

tions with both counselors

strategic

company, in a pioneering ini-

and students and in-depth

Thomas Cook India and I am

tiative, introduces ‘Univer-

meetings with university ad-

delighted to launch our unique

sity Tours’ to help Indian

mission advisors. Person-

“University Tours” as part of

students better understand

alised care and attention is

the “Travel & Learn” product

and shortlist suitable col-

ensured via the expertise of

portfolio. This pioneering ini-

leges for their studies in the

Thomas

tiative in association with The

US. This innovative product

Cook Tour Manager who ac-

Red Pen is aimed at giving stu-

is the latest addition to

companies the University

dents a vibrant firsthand per-

leading

financial

inte-

experienced

Thomas

focus

Cook

area

Thomas Cook India’s ‘Travel

Tour group of students and

spective of what to expect

& Learn’ portfolio and is in

parents/ family members.

when pursuing their under-

association with The Red Pen

The specially designed

graduate studies in America.

College Tours, USA. Study-

itineraries of Thomas Cook

On-ground counseling and in-

ing in the US is indeed com-

India’s University Tours cover

teractions with local students

plex; the traditional route of

a diversity of premium educa-

and counselors make for en-

online research or word-of-

tional institutions including,

gaging sessions while ensur-

mouth falling short of provid-

Stanford University, Univer-

ing

ing Indian students and their

sity of California – Los Ange-

university.”

Balmer Lawrie & Co., a mini-ratna public sector undertaking with diversified business portfolios, recently announced the take-over of holidays brand ‘Vacations Exotica’ along with its people and business. brings with it a multi-talented

tic or hands-on perspective.

Tours- aimed at providing a

Balmer Lawrie takes over Vacations Exotica almer Lawrie Tours &

les (UCLA), Harvard Univer-

homas Cook (India) Ltd.

Highlights

margins down in air ticketing

selection

apt

by TNH DESK

sition of majority stake and

Alexander Lawrie, in Kolkata,

management control in Rs 430

Balmer Lawrie & Co. Ltd.

cr billing company M/S Travel

started its corporate journey as

Services International (TSI) by

a Partnership Firm on 1st Feb-

India’s second largest online

ruary 1867. Traversing the 147

travel company-Yatra.com in

years gone by, today Balmer

the year 2011-12.

Lawrie is a Miniratna I Public

work force and a wide range of

business significantly. The

Vacations Exotica is billed

Sector Enterprise under the

holiday packages.

packaged tours business espe-

as one of the leading companies

Ministry of Petroleum & Natu-

cially outbound has reason-

in the organised outbound

ral Gas with a turnover of Rs

and the oldest IATA accred-

“Travel business is going

ited agency in India, will

through a phase of consolida-

able entry barriers and also

tours space having grown to a

2762 crores and a profit of Rs

strengthen its foothold by tak-

tion as service providers are

far better margins and there

size in excess of Rs. 100 crores

223

ing over Mumbai-based Vaca-

looking keenly to add value

for attractive to players strong

in less than 6 years with offices

Balmer Lawrie is a much-re-

tions Exotica, one of the top

added services which can en-

in ticketing space,” he said.

in more than 12 cities and fast

spected transnational diversi-

five players in the outbound

hance margin in their busi-

growing franchises in several

fied

package tours sector.

ness,”

commented

Mumbai-based Singhi Advi-

crores

(FY

2012-13).

conglomerate

with

Ajoy

sors has done a couple of deals

domestic and overseas mar-

presence in both manufactur-

This takeover will help

Lodha, partner at Singhi Ad-

in the travel space earlier also.

kets. On the back of Balmer

ing and service sectors. Balmer

Kolkota-based Balmer Lawrie

visors which facilitated the

These include sale of control-

Lawrie, the company has po-

Lawrie is a market leader in

to expand its value proposi-

deal.

ling stake in “Route Travels’’, a

tential to triple its business in 3

Logistics Services, Steel Bar-

years.

rels, Industrial Greases & Spe-

tion and offer end-to-end serv-

“The reduction of credit

subsidiary of Great Eastern

ices in the Tours and MICE

periods in ticketing business

Shipping Company to “Air

Founded by two Scotsmen,

segment as Vacations Exotica

and price wars has pushed

Travels Bureau Ltd” and acqui-

George Stephen Balmer and

cialty

Lubricants

Corporate Travel.

and

by TNH DESK

F EB RUA R Y 2014|TNH (TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY)

Tech News

Indian OTAs focuses on non-air streams to drive revenues Over the years the Indian OTAs have witnessed a consolidation and emergence of global players in the India market, fuelling further growth of Indian OTA segment.

sumer-focused innovation •

relationships that will be de-

- Location-based/geospatial

livered by new approaches

search capabilities and Nat-

to customer management,

ural Language Processing

The next level of Search

revenue management and

•

internal operations.”

serving and powering the in-

Tech trends in 2013

and Research

As regards important devel-

•

Mobile Technologies –

crease in Mobile Bookings

Rajesh Magow Co-founder & CEO-India, MakeMyTrip

Prem Kumar

product and service innovation and stronger customer

Consolidation of indus-

opments in terms of technol-

try

ogy in 2013 in online travel

• Experiential Travel

space, Magow said, “We be-

seen some landmark mo-

we have options like Pay-at-

lieve that the future of

What holds 2014 for OTAs

ments for the Indian Travel

Hotel, which lets you book a

eCommerce is on ‘mobile’.

Talking about his expecta-

ajesh Magow, Co-

industry. The take-off of mo-

hotel for just Re.1 while rest

Mobile

are

tion from the New Year 2014

founder & CEO-

bile internet and applica-

of the payment can be made

changing the way in which

for OTAs, Magow said that

applications

India, MakeMyTrip

tions has revolutionized the

at the time of arrival,”

customers

with

2014 looks bright as the

said, “Over the years we

OTA segment. Access chan-

Magow said. “Also, Big Data

brands. Therefore, over the

long-term growth perspec-

have witnessed a consolida-

nels have evolved with the

has emerged as an impor-

last couple of years, we

tive for India’s travel mar-

growing

tant enabler for travel com-

dependency

interact

strengthened focus on the

ket

mobile channel as a growth

According to Magow, in this

driver. We have launched

year, the Indian aviation

free apps for iPhone, Black-

market will see new airlines such as Tata-SIA and AirA-

the growth of Indian OTA

berry, Windows and An“Perdroid phone users.” sonalization will He further said, play in key role in all “With smartforms of travel whether busiphone adoption growing ness, leisure or activity oriented. at a phenomThe goal will be to provide travel enal rate, experiences and services that have a the number lifestyle appeal, not just specific of travel-rel a t e d functional benefits. At Makesearches and MyTrip our focus for the next bookings via few years is the solid foundaare mobiles has skytion for personalizabookrocketed in the ing via past year. We feel motion.”

segment.

mobile, and

smartphones, and today

“2013 has seen some landmark moments for the Indian Travel industry. The take-off of mobile internet and applications has revolutionized the OTA segment.” tion and emergence of global players in the India market, which has further fuelled Further,

the

growth of the Indian travel

panies

more and more people

this trend is here

remains

robust.

sia India launching their operations.

“These

new

investments will definitely have a positive impact on the landscape of Indian travel & tourism industry. Mobile will continue to be an important point of sale for the industry in the near future. Mobile Technologies will surely propel e-commerce and travel buying experience in the coming years,” said Magow, who believes that personalization

bile apps will become an

will be a big part of e-com-

important point of sale for

merce moving forward as

market has led Indian OTAs

to stay for the coming

en-

us in the near future. Mobile

guest expectations for more

to differentiate and focus on

years.” Giving an example,

gage better with customers

Technologies will surely

personal experiences are on

non-air business streams to

Magow said that Make-

and deliver service effi-

propel

and

the rise. “Personalization

drive revenue and prof-

MyTrip (MMT) received 20%

ciently and intelligently. It

travel buying experience in

will play in key role in all

itability.”

of our hotel bookings from

provides us a great opportu-

the coming years.”

forms of travel whether

eCommerce

mobile. MMT has also seen

nity to positively impact

According to Magow,

business, leisure or activity

Indian OTAs’ feats in 2013

significant growth in online

both the business-end and

some of the top emerging

oriented. The goal will be to

Speaking about the achieve-

travel purchase with the

the experience at the cus-

technology trends in 2013

provide travel experiences

ments of Indian OTAs in

availability of robust online

tomer-end through better

were:

and services that have a

2013, Magow said, “2013 has

payment options. “At MMT,

decision-making,

• Personalization - Con-

lifestyle appeal, not just

FEB RU ARY 2 01 4 | TNH (TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY)

greater

Tech/Trade News added.

According

specific functional benefits,”

point, we send targeted mail-

the form of in-film placement

travel planning faster and

said Magow. “At MakeMyTrip

ers and offers basis customer

Magow, a key challenge for

in the movie Yeh Jawaani Hai

easier. Developed exclusively

our focus for the next few

purchase patterns and be-

2014 will be to understand as

Deewani where we came on

for

years is the solid foundation

havior to drive better conver-

to how best the Indian OTAs

board as the official travel

RoutePlanner

for personalization. For ex-

sions and personalize our

can leverage the rapidly ex-

partner.”

availability of services like

ample: from a CRM stand-

interactions with customers,”

panding mobile space for cus-

MMT also continued to

flights, buses, trains and cabs

tomer engagement as well as

make huge strides on the

to display the various connec-

Key points •Key challenge for Indian OTAs is to understand as to how best they can leverage the rapidly expanding mobile space for customer engagement as well as brand building. •There is an increased need to encourage Public-Private partnerships in the travel space to ensure better services and products for the traveller. •Big Data has emerged as an important enabler for travel companies to engage better with customers and deliver service efficiently and intelligently. •Big Data provides a great opportunity to positively impact both the business-end and the experience at the customer-end. •Personalization and consumer-focused innovation was a key technology trend in 2013 in online travel market space.

Indian

traveller, integrates

brand building. Also, there is

Technology front in the last

tivity options between any

an increased need to encour-

year. Its focus on the Mobile

two places in India.Today,

age Public-Private partner-

platform has paid off well.

over 20% of our traffic comes from mobile apps.

ships in the travel space to

“We have the highest number

ensure better services and

of travel app download in the

products for the traveller.

country at 2 million down-

tion of MMT for the New Year,

MMT’s performance in ‘13

loads till date. We are the

Magow said, “As the coming

“For us, 2013 has been a year

only player to offer apps

years shape up, one of the

Speaking about plan of ac-

of continued growth and in-

across all popular platforms

key priorities for us will be to

vestment in the Hotels &

– iOS, Android, Windows and

build products that simplify

Packages category. The year

Blackberry. Our apps are also

travel for customers across

began on a good note and we

the most functional – allow-

various

made some major announce-

ing customers to do more

screens – web and mobile.”

ments

year,”

than just search, book and

He added, “With a share of

Magow said. “We sponsored

pay, by also offering them lo-

the travel market extending

early

this

touch-points

and

Sunrisers Hyderabad IPL

cation-based dining options,

to more than 50 per cent of all

team and launched a series of

hotel reviews and more,” said

online sales, we will continue

TVC with the players to build

Magow. MMT launched an in-

to roll out new services built

on our Hotels Lob. Another

novative

with

strategic partnership came in

Routeplanner - that makes

proach.”

ables them to hire a premium

added services, customers can

Avis India, SBI Card usher the New Year with an exciting 20% discount on car bookings Beginning the New Year on a festive note for all its customers, Avis India has tied up with SBI Card to give a flat 20% discount to customers using a SBI Card for bookings with Avis India.

application

‘mobile-first’

ap-

car at a more affordable rate,

avail a 20% discount on car

thereby assuring a comfort-

bookings across 20 cities in

able journey.”

India. To avail this discount,

Speaking about this initia-

customers can simply log on to

tive, Pallav Mohapatra, CEO,

http://www.avis.co.in/sbi.html.

SBI Cards and Payment Serv-

Combining the experience of

ices Private Limited, said, “At

premium cars and superior

deal for holidays and

Audi, Mercedes Benz and

SBI Card, it is our endeavor to

services from Avis India, cus-

weekend travel, this ex-

BMW. SBI Card will be extend-

add value and make every ex-

tomers can make every journey

clusive offer will be avail-

ing this exclusive discount

perience a rewarding one.

a memorable one.

able till March 2014 for all the

offer to its retail card and cor-

This collaboration with Avis

This offer has been struc-

customers of Avis India who

porate card customers.

India is one such step towards

tured such that, both individu-

have a SBI Card, across all

Sunil Gupta CEO, Avis India

the

Sunil Gupta, CEO, Avis

adding style and luxury to

als as well as corporate

Avis locations in the country.

India, said, “The first three

every getaway our customer

customers of SBI Card can

This unique association with

months this year bring in

plans.” He further added, “We

avail the discount on booking

Avis India will enable SBI

many long weekends, which

have come up with some great

cars within India. For an indi-

Card customers to plan their

would mean people wanting to

initiatives in 2013 and cus-

vidual customer, this offer will

next adventure with comfort

travel to nearby destinations

tomers can look forward to

give their families a chance to

and luxury. Customers will

with their families. Our tie up

more such attractive proposi-

experience luxury travel at an

have

with SBI Card thus, specially

tions in the New Year.”

affordable

the

opportunity

choose their vehicles from a

targets the corporate, leisure

With Avis India’s national

wide choice of cars including

& individual travelers. It en-

footprint and SBI Card’s value

price

for

that

much-needed weekend getaway.

by TNH DESK

F EB RUA R Y 2014|TNH (TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY)

Cruise News

Plata, Reposado and Anejo

to achieve the pinnacle of fla-

Royal Caribbean International’s Navigator of the Seas gets Texas-Sized Makeover

tequila, or savor the nuances

vor, tenderness and aroma.

among three Reposado tequi-

This dry-aged process can only

las.

be found at select steakhouses

Ship features all-new wows, including Royal Caribbean’s first-ever virtual balconies, Flow-Rider surf simulator and new dining program.

Furthermore, Navigator of

around the world, and now, in

the Seas’ guests will be the first

a cruise industry first, is of-

to enjoy the fully revamped and

fered aboard Royal Caribbean

s she completes the final

deck 13 Sports Deck, as well as

ing a mouthwatering menu of

elevated Chops Grille: The New

International’s Chops Grille.

stages of month-long dry-

the debut of Royal Caribbean’s

authentic, modern and unex-

American Steakhouse, which

Navigator of the Seas’ guests

Royal

first Virtual Balconies in 81 in-

pected Mexican dishes, such as

marries contemporary flair to

also can choose exciting sushi

Caribbean International’s Nav-

terior staterooms displaying

Oaxacan Ceviche of Red Snap-

traditional steakhouse offer-

and Asian fusion dishes in the

igator of the Seas is primed to

expansive, real-time views of

per, Spicy Chicken Flautas, or

ings. The first among Royal

ship’s new Izumi Japanese

resume year-round service

the ocean and destinations. Vir-

Chicken and Roasted Corn Em-

Caribbean’s fleet to offer the

Cuisine (a la carte menu), and

from Galveston, Texas, and

tual Balconies were first an-

panada, topped with Green

new menu, Chops Grille on

delicious classic Italian fa-

WOW the Lone Star State with

nounced for Quantum of the

mole and spicy peanut sauce –

Navigator of the Seas will fea-

vorites in Giovanni’s Table Ital-

the area’ss most innovative and

Seas, which debuts October

to name a few. Sabor diners

ture brand new selections, such

ian trattoria ($15 for lunch and

A dock

revitalization,

Caribbean

2014, and vacationers can be

also can delight in customized

as the Veal Chop Parmesan,

$20 for dinner per guest).

cruise vacation. Part of an ex-

contemporary

among the first to experience

guacamole and salsas, made

slow broiled with caramelized

Rounding out Navigator of the

tensive fleetwide program to

the innovation on Navigator of

tableside right in front of their

shallots

Seas’ culinary experiences is

enhance

Royal

the Seas – even before the

eyes, as well as an assortment

parmesan herb butter, a Slow-

the grand, three-story main

Caribbean’ ship, Navigator of

Quantum class is launched. Va-

of tacos, quesadillas and burri-

braised Short Rib of Beef with

dining room, newly renamed

the Seas will introduce new and

cationers also can choose new

tos, all made with the freshest

Bordelaise sauce, and a Dry-

Sapphire, the casual-dining

significantly enhanced dining

Panoramic Ocean View state-

ingredients. Sabor has a serv-

aged Steak Burger served on a

Windjammer Café, and compli-

options; debut a new FlowRider

rooms, featuring floor-to-ceiling

ice charge of $25 per guest.

brioche bun and topped with

mentary room service from 5 –

every

and

topped

with

surf simulator; and offer a

glass walls facing outward to

Guests can complement their

melted gruyere and pancetta.

12 a.m. Navigator of the Seas’

glimpse ahead toward the

provide guests breathtaking,

experience with a curated

Guests also can still enjoy

specialty

cruise line’s highly anticipated

unobstructed views all the time.

menu of tequilas, mezcal, and

Chops Grille classic cuts, such

available for advance online

Quantum of the Seas, with new

Navigator of the Seas’ guests

Mexican beers, as well as deli-

as the 8 Oz. Filet Mignon,

reservations for booked guests

also can look forward to an ex-

cious sangrias and tableside-

served with Béarnaise butter,

at RoyalCaribbean.com.

first-at-sea amenities.

restaurants

are

Most anticipated of all the

panded lineup of eight dining

mixed margaritas, for an

and a 10 Oz. Grilled Sirloin

Guests also will enjoy some

ship’s revitalizations is the new

options, led by the debut of an

additional

Steak, as well as a range of

of the more popular concepts

FlowRider surf simulator, the

all-new modern Mexican spe-

tequila flights also offer guests

new and delicious signature

that were introduced aboard

center of the action atop the

cialty restaurant Sabor, featur-

a chance to sample a trio of

appetizers, soups, salads, and

Royal Caribbean’s ground-

sides – such as new, decadent

breaking Oasis-class ships,

charge.

Sabor’s

Truffled French Fries and

such as new digital signage,

Gruyere Cheese Tater Tots –

bow-to-stern Wi-Fi service,

that will complete the experi-

new flat-panel televisions in

ence in the cruise line’s hall-

every stateroom, an oversized

mark specialty restaurant.

LCD movie screen overlooking

Chops Grille steakhouse has a

the main pool, a new Diamond

service charge of $35 per

Lounge for Crown & Anchor

guest.

Society loyalty member guests,

Chops Grille also features

and the Royal Babies and Tots

two new premium selections of

Nursery for the youngest

the finest quality cuts of beef in

guests ages six to 36 months.

the world, a 16 Oz. dry-aged

Additionally, the ship’s Cham-

NY Strip Steak and a 20 Oz.

pagne Bar has been re-con-

dry-aged Porterhouse Steak

ceptualized

(an additional $18 and $19 re-

Caribbean’s signature, retro-

spectively), each USDA prime

chic R Bar.

beef, dry-aged for four weeks

FEB RU ARY 2 01 4 | TNH (TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY)

into

Royal by TNH DESK

Trade News

Magical wonders of RFC It is the launch of new experiences and a host of challenging marketing strategies that contribute to the immense popularity of RFC, the largest global film studio. Swaati Chaudhury

tional Convention Centre, a hos-

ing Director, RFC explained,

are in tune with the aspirations

pitality district with hotel clus-

of the Indian youth.

ters and Incredible India that

leisure, hospitality and event

RFC has been targeting to at-

would house traditional homes

management and we have been

tract a robust flow of leisure

of divergent India.”

successful in enticing the corpo-

tourists from across India. Vi-

The most-sought-after hotspots

rate sector and leisure tourists.

jayeswari added, “The tourist

are Ramoji Movie Magic com-

We are targeting to create a

arrival stands at 1.5 million per

prising the world of actions,

complete spectrum of film

annum and on festive occasions,

filmy duniya and Ramoji Tower,

eing the pioneer of film-in-

tourism, religious, MICE and eco-tourism. We have set up

Ramoji Film City (RFC) is best

eco-friendly projects including

known as a world of thematic

Butterfly Park and Bonsai Gar-

destination where every mo-

den that offer up close experi-

ment spells magic for tourists

ence

and is sure to take their breath

prominent new attractions that

with

nature.

Our

away. Recognized as the world’s

would be opened for tourists

largest film studio complex by

are Bird Park and Adventure

Guinness World Records, RFC

Land –Sahas. Being developed

offers a truly fascinating ambi-

with global experts as Asia’s

ence and services perfect for a

finest adventure land, Sahas is

Fundustan- children’s play area,

Snapshot

Eureka or fun zone and Bora-

Attractive projects of RFC in the pipeline:

sura. RFC has a comprehensive

•Sahas Ramoji Adventure Land •Bird Park and OM •Ramoji International Convention Centre •Hospitality district •Incredible India

ences and our innovative, pro-

marketing strategy. “We have been launching novel experimotional marketing strategy involves a mix of direct marketing, relationship marketing and strategic partnerships with travel groups. It is the domestic sector that forms our potential

wide range of itineraries like

spread into multiple zones and

leisure, MICE, conventions,

would offer high-octane adven-

the footfall increases manifold

pand by broad basing our ap-

family holidays, weddings and

tures like harness course, net

since there is an exciting blend

peal across various spectrums.

other events.

tourist market. We hope to ex-

course, paintball, zorbing, bike

of entertainment. In the pipeline

The annual flow of tourists to

RFC in recent times has lined

rides, archery and rifle shooting,

are projects like OM that would

RFC has been 14 lakhs last year

up a slew of prestigious projects

ATV rides, inflatable zones and

comprise centuries-old shrines

and we are eyeing to draw 18

that would enhance its image as

pool area with highest stan-

of India to be recreated in one

lakhs in the current year,” fur-

a prospective global destina-

dards of safety.” Sahas Ramoji

huge complex, Ramoji Interna-

ther added Vijayeswari.

port holders to connect with

“Through

Emirates and Visas of the World launch new visa processing service for Indian passport holders First 100 Emirates customers to get visa service charge waiver. mirates, a global connec-

Adventure Land and Bird Park

“We are emphasizing in areas of

duced tourism in India,

Ch Vijayeswari Managing Director, RFC

tion. Ch Vijayeswari, Manag-

our

dedicated

friends, family and business

teams, VOTW will provide

contacts in 10 key global

trained personnel to ensure

travel

said

the service offered to Emi-

destinations,”

Essa Sulaiman Ahmad, Vice

rates’ customers is of the

President India and Nepal.

high standard that Emirates’

“We are therefore very happy

passengers are used to.”

to partner with VOTW to

The VOTW service will

offer yet another unique serv-

initially be offered from all 10

This service is a first of its kind

tor of people and places,

for any airline. As an introduc-

to physically visit a visa office

ice that I am optimistic will

of Emirates Indian gateways

operating flights to 141 desti-

tory offer, Emirates will also be

to collect their application

assist our many Indian cus-

namely, Mumbai, New Delhi,

nations in 80 countries has

waiving the visa service fee for

forms or check their documen-

tomers to travel abroad with

Chennai, Kolkata, Ahmed-

launched a new customer ini-

the first 100 visa applicants.

tation.

increased ease.”

abad,

tiative in India in partnership

Emirates’ customers can log

rates passengers will not need

"Emirates has always

Bengaluru,

Cochin,

“We believe that Visas of

Kozhikode, Hyderabad, and

with Visas of the World

now

been committed to improving

the World is going to make it

Thiruvananthapuram. In ad-

(VOTW). With VOTW, Emi-

www.emirates.com/in to apply

the convenience of its pas-

even more convenient for

dition, the VOTW service will

rates’ customers can now di-

for visas to 10 destinations:

sengers by providing best-in-

Emirates

be available in six cities

rectly arrange their visas

UK, USA, Canada, Switzer-

class services both on ground

arrange their visas to the 10

where Emirates does not op-

online at www.emirates.com/in

land, France, Germany, Italy,

and on board. VOTW is an-

initial destinations”, said Mr.

erate direct flights; Baroda,

for 10 international destina-

Netherlands,

and

other initiative to make it

Vishal Suri, Chief Executive

Pune, Goa, Jaipur, Lucknow

tions at the click of a button.

South Africa. With VOTW, Emi-

even easier for Indian pass-

Officer, Visas of the World.

and Mangalore.

FEB RU AR Y 20 1 4| TNH (TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY)

Nigeria

passengers

by TNH DESK

Government News

Delhi International Kite Festival 2014 concludes Delhi Tourism recently organized Delhi International Kite Festival 2014 in the national capital wherein International kite flyers dotted the city's skyline with colourful Kites.

wing to the enthusiasm

The three day festival had

Delhiites have for Kites

magic shows every day, cul-

the three day festival which

tural programs by Sahitya

started from 24 Jan, 2014 wit-

Kala Parishad & Punjabi

nessed huge crowds from all

Academy every evening and

parts of Delhi.

there was a special painting

The three day extravaganza remained a hit among

competition for children on the second day of the event.

visitors as they witnessed

Delhi International Kite

some of the most unique kites

Festival had foreign partici-

ever. There were Hexagon

pants from UK, US, France,

shaped kites, kathakali kites

Lebanon, Indonesia and South

from Kerala, dragon kites,

Korea. There were 30 Indian

guitar shaped kites, eagle

kite flyers who came from Ra-

shaped kite, box kites, penta-

jkot, Mangalore, Trivandrum,

gon kites, Bhagat Singh kite

Chandigarh,

etc.

Ahmedabad, Delhi International Kite

Hyderabad, Chennai

and

Kerala.

Festival provided visitors a

S.K Srivastava, Chief Sec-

perfect opportunity to unwind

retary, Government of Delhi

and witness kites of all shapes

visited Delhi International

and sizes which adorned the

Kite Festival in the concluding

skyline of Delhi. There were

day and applauded Delhi

kites which were 33 meter

Tourism for organizing this

long. Visitors were delighted

annual Kite Festival.

to see Indiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s smallest Kite

The festival was inaugu-

whose size was only one inch.

rated by Somnath Bharti, Min-

An Exhibition hall on the His-

ister of Tourism, Law, Art &

tory of Kites enlightened visi-

Culture and Administrative

tors about this age old art.

Reforms, Govt. of Delhi on 24

This stall had Kites of differ-

Jan, 2014.

ent sizes from one square inch

Spirit of Delhi soared high

to 70 square inch, Kites made

in this one of a kind annual

of Tissue Paper, Elastic Paper,

festival organized by Delhi

Bamboo, Cloth, etc on display.

Tourism whose sole purpose

The highlights of this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

is to revive the age old fading

festival were night kite flying

tradition and provide Delhi-

with LED Kites and Kite

ites an opportunity to wit-

Trails which had more than

ness patabgbazi out in the

150 Kites.

open.

by TNH DESK

F EB RUA R Y 2014|TNH (TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY)

Government News

Sirpur Dance and Music Festival 2013 concludes Sirpur National Dance and Music Festival 2014 saw the presence of artists of national and international reputes from across the country showcasing rich cultural diversity of India and enchanting audience with their outstanding performance. Prem Kumar

through promotion of art,

The Chief Minister of the

hhattisgarh Tourism

culture and music. Well-

state Dr. Raman Singh in-

Board recently organ-

known singer of Hindustani

augurated the three-day fes-

ized Sirpur National Dance

classical

Shubha

tival at the 1,500-year-old

and Music Festival 2014,

Mudgal, Sufi singers Wadali

famous Laxman temple of

which was held on January

brothers and many other

Sirpur in the presence of

4-6, 2014 at Sirpur (Ma-

noted artists graced the oc-

many dignitaries including

hasamund

casion with their perform-

the Tourism and Culture

District)

Chhattisgarh. Situated 84 km away from Raipur, the

FEB RU AR Y 20 1 4| TNH (TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY)

music

ance. The

minister of the State Ajay Sirpur

national

Chandrakar, Member of Par-

capital of the state, on the

dance and music festival

liament from Mahasamund

bank of Mahanadi, Sirpur is

has been started to create

Chandulal Sahu and local

a small town well-known for

awareness about the an-

MLA Vimal Chopra. Repub-

its rich cultural heritages

cient Buddha and other her-

lic of Koreaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Ambassador

and archaeological monu-

itages of Sirpur across the

to India, Lee Jungu was

ments. The objective behind

world and promote Bud-

chief guest at the inaugural

organizing this annual festi-

dhist and other historical

function.

val is to promote art and

sites of the town, and estab-

Explaining the objective

culture of the state, and cre-

lish Sirpur firmly in the

of the Sirpur festival, San-

ate universal brotherhood

tourism map of the world.

tosh Mishra, Managing Di-

Government News

rector, CTB said that the Sir-

own unique identity in the

pur National Dance and

sense that eminent artistes

Music Festival is to create

of national and international

awareness about local tradi-

repute participate and per-

tional arts and culture and

form Indian classical, folk

ancient monuments of the

and tribal dances and music

town. According to Mishra,

of India as well as Chhattis-

this will also help in promot-

garh on the enchanting

ing Sirpur as tourist destina-

stage of Sirpur in the monu-

tion. This was the second time

mental and archeological place.

Sirpur National Dance and

Sirpur has rich heritage

Music Festival was organ-

of Buddhism. The town is

ised. The grand festival

home to many remains of

brings together all kinds of

Boudh Vihars. The main at-

dance and music forms of

tractions for tourist at Sir-

the country on one platform,

pur are The Laxman temple

and showcases the diverse

Anand Prabhu, Kuti Vhar,

art forms of the country. This

Swastik, Vihar and other

festival has established its

historic monuments.

F EB RUAR Y 2014|TNH (TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY)

Government News

Kerala Tourism attracts more tourists with New Initiatives Registers consistent rise in both international and domestic tourist arrivals

mada, Kumarakom, Bolgatty

activities include Trekking,

vast potential of information

and Bekal in the state.

camping, Rock Climbing, Jun-

technology for promoting

The Muziris Heritage Site

gle, Wildlife safaris, Bird

Kerala Tourism in the global

(MHS) stretches across from

watching, Cycling, Kayaking,

market. Kerala Tourism’s

the municipality of North Par-

Canoeing and paragliding.

website, which attracts the

avur in Ernakulam district to

Another forward initiative

maximum number of visitors,

that of Kodungalloor in Thris-

is the virtual world launch of

has been translated into var-

sur district. Project’s objective

the new 'Great Backwaters'

ious Indian languages like

is to promote awareness and

campaign. Ahead of the tradi-

Hindi,

understanding of the cultural

tional media, the campaign is

Tamil, Kannada and Telugu,

Marathi,

Gujarati,

distinctiveness and diversity

to unveil the state's majestic

as well as foreign languages

of Muziris. More than 25 mu-

backwaters as a single desti-

including Dutch, Italian, Por-

nessed 7.94 lakh foreign

seums will be there to show-

nation.

tuguese and Swedish.

tourists arrival in 2012 as

case the Muziris Heritage.

erala

wit-

compared to 7.33 lakh in 2011.

A new campaign, Home of

Kerala has emerged as

Ayurveda was also launched

the No. 1 travel destination in

Compared to 93.88 lakh do-

On the trail of the Spice

to promote Ayurveda through

Google search trends, edging

mestic tourists in 2011, 1.01 cr

Route

all medium. Introduced Bake-

out TajMahal. This is a testi-

domestic tourists visited Ker-

Another amazing initiative in

lasa new destination in north

mony to the international

ala in 2012. The Foreign ex-

the offing is the Spice Route

Kerala.

recognition of brand Kerala.

change earnings had also

Revival Project. Kerala's ini-

From a seasonal tourist

gone up from `4221.99 cr in

tiative to revive and promote

place, Kerala was elevated to

Cultural Events showcas-

2011 to `4548 cr in 2012. The

the two millennia-old spice

an all season destination

ing Kerala

total revenue, both direct and

route, that links the south

through a successful Dream

Utsavam 29th December to 19th January

indirect from tourism touched

western coast of India up to

Season campaign launched

`21,125 cr in 2012 compared

Europe, through tourism has

during the off-season.

to `19,037 cr in 2011.

received a boost, with the United

New Initiatives in God’s

To identify and promote

a festive mode to give a feel of

World

40 new destinations in five

its traditional and folk arts to

Organisation

years, over 40 new tourist

domestic and foreign tourists

Nations

Tourism

Kerala has switched on to

Own Country

(UNWTO) pledging support to

centres have been spotted,

as the high tourist season got

Government of Kerala has

the venture. Delegates at a

project reports prepared and

under way. Branded as 'Ut-

rolled out two new initiatives

three-day international meet

sanctioned for development.

savam', the cultural extrava-

‘Seaplane Project’ and ‘Pro-

in August on Silk Road

ject Muziris’ in order to en-

tourism organized by the

Real progress in the virtual

venues across all the 14 dis-

hance the travel experience

UNWTO in the northwestern

world

tricts of Kerala for three

and add to its array of tourist

Chinese city of Dunhuang ap-

In a short span of time, Kerala

weeks. 'Utsavam' (festival)

sites. Where the former proj-

preciated a presentation on

Tourism has made a mark in

has been an annual event

ect is aimed towards improv-

Spice Route.

the Digital world. Kerala

since 2007.

ing last mile connectivity by

ganza will be staged in 60

Tourism has 852238 Fans on

air to its destinations across

Other Noteworthy Projects

Facebook, 20818 followers on

Nishagandhi Festival

state, the latter is directed to

Kerala Tourism has come out

Twitter

To be held between January

and

the

Kerala

reinstate the historical and

with a unique nature based

Tourism YouTube channelhas

20th - 26th, 2014 this year.

cultural significance of the

soft adventure holidays pro-

5,199subscribers, 7,110,913

Renowned dancers perform

legendary port of Muziris.

gram NATVENTURE. The

views.

Bharat Natyam, Mohiniyat-

For the Seaplane Project

idea behind this is to use the

New website has been

tam, Kathak, Odissi, modern

the plan is to provide service

key tourism products - -

launched recently with a

ballet and other folk forms.

initially in the priority circuit,

Wildlife,

Stations,

fresh look and increased ac-

Artist and connoisseurs of

consisting of the three air-

Beaches, Backwaters etc and

cessibility with more infor-

dance from all over India

ports of Trivandrum, Cochin

engage the possibilities of ad-

mation, 1500 pictures and

come to enjoy this cultural

& Calicut and the prime desti-

venture activities they pres-

3000 videos.

nations viz. Astamudi, Punna-

ent.

FEB RU AR Y 20 1 4| TNH (TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY)

Hill

Kerala

Natventure

We have tapped into the

treat. The festival is organised by KTDC.

by TNH DESK

Government News

Resolve to reduce road fatalities by Inculcate the Spirit of 50% in next 5 years: Oscar Fernandes ‘Pehle Aap’ to Make Roads Fernandes recently presented road safety awards to state transport organisations. On the occasion, new logo was also launched marking 25 Years of the Road Safety Week.

scar Fernandes, the

saved.

Safer: Vijay Chibber

Countrywide Road Safety Walks were organised recently to make road safety a social movement

They can organize road

for

Earlier speaking on the

safety activities at school and

All road users must in-

istry also participated in the

Road Transport and High-

occasion, Vijay Chibber, the

colleges and create opportu-

culcate the spirit of “Pehle

2km walk. As an endeavor to

ways has called upon all

Secretary, Road Transport &

nities for students to engage

Aap” to avoid accidents and

make road safety a social

stake holders to rededicate

Highways informed that bi-

in road safety programmes.

make roads safer. This was

movement, the walk aimed

their Road Safety efforts to

cycle users happen to be one

In order to give a boost to

stated by Vijay Chibber, the

at involving youth, school

Union

Minister

reduce road fatalities by 50

of the most vulnerable road

emergency care of the acci-

Secretary Road Transport

and college students and all

per cent in next five years.

users, susceptible to the high

dent victims, the Ministry has

and Highways here this

stakeholders including Po-

Oscar Fernandes, said this

rate of road accidents. Dur-

launched a pilot project for

morning at the beginning of

lice, Transport Departments

while addressing a confer-

ing the year 2012, 6600 cy-

cashless treatment up to

Road Safety Walk organized

and others to work together

ence of stakeholders in Road

clists were killed in road

`30,000 for first 48 hours for

by the Ministry of Road

to raise awareness about

Safety, here today. He said

accidents. Non-visibility of

road accident victims on Gur-

Transport and Highways

road safety issues, promot-

the Ministry of Road Trans-

bicycle rider due to lack of

gaon-Jaipur section of NH 8.

(RTH) at India Gate.The Sec-

ing responsible road use,

port and Highways, being the

proper reflective devices in-

Ambulances connected with

retary said that “Pehle Aap”

need to help road accident

nodal Ministry for Road

stalled on each and every bi-

the control room through

attitude

“Lukhnavi

victims in time and to miti-

Safety is working closely

cycle is the most critical

GPS having toll-free number

Tehzib” has the potential of

gate sufferings to victims

with all other stakeholders

reasons for the high rate of

1033 for assistance are sta-

creating goodwill among

and their families that result

to make a difference in the

accidents with motorized ve-

tioned to provide treatment

road users, influencing their

from crashes and casualties.

near future. Expressing con-

hicles. Cycle by its definition

while taking the injured to

behavior on roads and as a

All States and Union Territo-

cern over 1.38 lakh lives lost

is not a motorized vehicle

the hospitals.

result reducing number of

ries (UT’s) are also organiz-

in around 4.9 lakh road acci-

and the Ministry is not in a

road accidents/mishaps. He

ing Walks today.

In order to spread road

dents reported during previ-

position to do much. How-

safety

ous year, Oscar Fernandes

ever, the Ministry of Con-

Safety Week” is observed all

said all out efforts are being

sumer

been

over the country in the month

made to strengthen safety on

approached in this respect.

of January every year. The

Indian roads. However, Road

Road Safety is a continuous

25th road safety week was

Affairs

has

awareness

“Road

Safety responsibility also

engagement and can be en-

celebrated from 11st January

lies with private agencies,

sured by making it a mass

to 17th January 2014. The

different associations, non-

movement programme he

theme for Road Safety Week

governmental organizations

added.

this year is “When on the

and individual road users, he

Children and youth are

said the Ministry will con-

The Ministry of Road

The “National Road Safety Week” is observed throughout the country in January every year to highlight the need to make roads safe and to give all stakeholders an opportunity to take part in concerted efforts for the cause. The theme of this year’s Road Safety awareness was ‘When on road, always say ‘Pehle Aap’ to educate all drivers in this etiquette of ‘Lukhnavi Tehzib’ requiring them to be more generous and considerate towards fellow road users. This attitude of ‘Pehle Aap’ will help check rash driving and make road journeys less stressful.

road, always say “Pahle

tinue with it’s efforts to re-

Transport and Highways ob-

added. The Minister said It is

among the most vulnerable.

Aap”. The function of the 25th

duce road accident fatalities

served 25th National Road

necessary for all stakehold-

The age group (15-24 years)

road safety week was held at

through

larger

Safety Week from 11th-17th

engaging

ers viz. the Government, the

accounted for 32.3 per cent of

India International Centre on

communities and stakehold-

January this year. The “Na-

corporate houses, Automo-

total road accident casualties

16th January 2014. The rep-

ers in various awareness ac-

tional Road Safety Week” is

biles and Transport Associa-

during the year 2012. It is the

resentatives from various

tivities on road safety.

observed throughout the

tions, teachers and parents,

Ministry’s

Ministries / Departments,

Vijay Chibber, the Sec-

country, in the month of Jan-

the Electronic and Print

make road safety a social

Transport & Police Depart-

retary, RTH, Taj Hassan,

uary every year, to highlight

Media, the NGO’s and the Ac-

movement in partnership

ments/ Transport Associa-

Special CP Traffic, represen-

the need to make roads safe

ademia, to join hands to col-

with schools and Universi-

tions/ Vehicle Manufacturers

tatives of various stakehold-

and to give all stakeholders

lectively address the issues

ties. Educational institutions

/ School & colleges/Media

ing organizations, children

an opportunity to take part

and concerns of road safety

can play a very important

Houses etc. attended the

from various schools and

in concerted efforts for the

so that precious lives can be

role in promoting road safety.

function.

senior officers of the Min-

cause.

Endeavour

by TNH DESK

F EB RUAR Y 2014|TNH (TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY)

Government News

Indian museums should be important tourist destinations: PM Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh has said that the Indian museums should play the role of institutions of learning and important tourist destinations.

other museums across the

give the visitor a detailed

to see the exhibits in their

country.”

and authentic account of the

new restored setting and he

major items and displays.

commended the Director and

Dr. Singh further said, “Museums across the world

It should be the objective

are now important tourist

of the Museum to become an

destinations. Many great

essential port of call for any

This Museum, founded in

cities of our time are defined

visitor to Kolkata, especially

1814, has survived two hun-

by the presence of some

those from abroad. It should

dred years in the midst of his-

his staff for the hard work that they have put in.

truly outstanding museums

offer the visitor an exciting

toric upheavals. It was the

in them. People travel thou-

and educative prospect of

first to be established in India

sands of miles to visit muse-

spending a few hours sam-

and is perhaps the largest in

ums. To be truly enriching,

pling the best of Indian art,

the Asia-Pacific Region and

the visit must be a complete

sculpture, and other histori-

older than the Smithsonian

naugurating the bi-cente-

isons with similar collections

experience. This means ex-

cal

Institution, which is the

nary celebrations of In-

held elsewhere and build up

tensive support in terms of

glimpse of our extraordinary

largest museum in the world.

dian Museum in Kolkata

collaborations with other

signage, documentation and

and rich traditions. The Mu-

Its establishment served as a

recently, Dr. Singh said that

great museums whose col-

cataloguing. Museums must

seum’s collection is fully up

model, not only for other mu-

on the whole, while our mu-

lections reflect and shed

become attractive places

to providing such an experi-

seums, but also a number of

seums have been successful

light on what it holds,” said

where visitors can observe

ence.

institutions of national impor-

in disseminating the rich past of our country, it is also necessary to ask whether they should not attune their approaches and strategies so that they are more in keeping with the enhanced connotation of the term museum. He called upon the

“Museums across the world are now important tourist destinations. People travel thousands of miles to visit museums. To be truly enriching, the visit must be a complete experience. This means extensive support in terms of signage, documentation and cataloguing. Museums must become attractive places where visitors can observe and learn in a relaxing atmosphere.”

artefacts,

giving

Congratulating the staff of

tance.

the Indian Museum for the

Dr. Singh said that it is

work they have done in pre-

ironic that the Indian Mu-

serving our precious her-

seum was founded by west-

itage and in restoring the

ern

Museum, Dr. Singh urged

intellectuals and that too at a

them to enhance the magic

time when parts of our coun-

of the Indian Museum by

try had already begun to fall

making it a more living and

under the colonial yoke. Nev-

academics

and

management of the Indian

Singh, adding, “The first re-

and learn in a relaxing at-

interactive space that en-

ertheless, these enlightened

Museum to see itself as an

quirement for this purpose is

mosphere.”

thrals all those who visit here

individuals were products of

agent of change and develop-

the development of trained

ment. “As it renews its jour-

personnel.

Unfortunately,

to build up this kind of infra-

ney, it should seriously think

museology is a woefully neg-

structure and take its right-

about its role as a purveyor

lected field in our country.

ful place as one of the great

unveiled the modernised In-

in any case an interesting

of knowledge. It is not

The Indian Museum can and

museums of the world. The

dian Museum and released a

subject for contemporary

The Indian Museum needs

to experience the wonder that

the Age of Enlightenment,”

is, and always will be, India.

said Dr. Singh, adding that

On this occasion, Dr. Singh

eighteenth century India was

enough in today’s world to

must take a leadership role

restoration that has been

commemorative

postage

western scholars who wanted

house a collection. A mu-

in making good this defi-

completed is a very good

stamp and a monograph on

to study India’s historical

seum needs to document,

ciency. By doing so, it will

start. I would strongly urge

the History of 200 years of In-

past and cultural and scien-

study and analyse its own

not only enrich its own col-

the introduction of multi-lin-

dian Museum. Dr. Singh said

tific achievements.

collections, make compar-

lection, but will also help

gual audio guides that will

that it was a pleasure for him

FEB RU ARY 2 01 4 | TNH (TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY)

by TNH DESK

Government News

MoT launches ‘Incredible India Promotional Calendar 2014’ The Ministry of Tourism ((MoT), Government of India recently launched the ‘Incredible India Promotional Calendar 2014,’ which contains 24 photographs on double sided paper. has the picture of Golden

the Classical Dance Raas

Temple and Sri Meenakshi

Leela, Manipur adorn the

Temple, Madurai, Tamil-

calender month August.

nadu.

he Calendar was

www.incredibleindia.org.

launched by Parvez

All the pages of the calen-

Dewan,

dar have been made avail-

Tourism

Secretary in a function in

able

through

high

the Capital. Launching the

resolution photographs on

calendar, Dewan said that

the website.

every State has been cov-

The January month

ered and suitable regions

shows the Kalpeni Island,

and regional balance has

Lakshadweep and Spiti Val-

Aayi

December respectively. The Tourism Secretary also highlighted the efforts

Mandapam,

of the Ministry on revamp-

The month of May de-

Puducherry and the Tiru-

ing the website of Incredible

picts the scene of the Betla

mala Venkateswara Temple

India. He said that the print

National Park, Jharkhand

are

ready material would be

and

shown with the month of

made available on the web-

the

Great

Buddha,

Andhra

Pradesh

“Every State has been covered and suitable regions and regional balance has been maintained. All the north-eastern States have also been represented in the calendar. The calendar captures the rich variety and wide spectrum of destinations offered by India.”

site which would facilitate the professionals in the tourism industry to bring out brochures and other publicity material. This information would be provided in 10 languages – English, Arabic, Chinese,

been maintained. All the

ley, Himachal Pradesh. The

Bodh Gaya, Bihar whereas

September. October shows

Russian, Spanish, French,

north-eastern States have

February month takes the

the month of June shows

the Diu Fort, Daman & Diu

Korean

also been represented in

travellers

the pictures of Manda Peak,

and Dzukou Valley, Naga-

tuguese, Italian, and German

the calendar. Parvez Dewan

River, Arunachal Pradesh

Uttarakhand

land.

The calendar ends

in addition to Hindi. Dewan

said that the calendar cap-

and Aizawl, Mizoram.

mayun’s Tomb, Delhi.

with the pictures of One-

also highlighted the fact that

the

Siang

and

Hu-

Japanese,

Por-

tures the rich variety and

The month of March cap-

July month is depicted

horned Rihonceros, Kazi-

information about 15 Sound

wide spectrum of destina-

tures the Junagarh Fort,

with the photos of Cave

ranga, Assam, Basilica of

and Light Shows have been

tions offered by India.

Gujarat and the Royal Ben-

Temples & Monastries of El-

Bom Jesus, Goa and Ling-

provided through YouTube in

gal Tiger and Sunderbans,

lora, Maharashtra and Chi-

dum Monastery, Sikkim &

Dolby sound which is the

West Bengal. Keeping in

trakoot Falls, Chattisgarh.

Signature Golf Course, Gur-

first of its kind in the entire

wherein it can be seen at

view

The pictures of the Jagan-

gaon,

world.

the website of the Ministry

Baisakhi, the month of April

nath Temple, Tripura and

months of November and

The calendar has also been

launched

digitally

the

festival

PM speeds up Delhi-Jaipur Expressway

he Delhi-Jaipur Expressway is one of the

announcements

the

Prime Minister in Novem-

would be the first.

Haryana

for

the

by TNH DESK

The total road length will

ful, the Delhi-Jaipur Ex-

be 272 km. The Ministry

pressway model can be

plans to sign the State

replicated for all other ex-

Support

pressways in the country,

Agreement

Ministry of Road Trans-

28.2.2014 and the Project

which are by and large

port & Highways has esti-

would be awarded by Sept

parallel to existing Na-

mated

2014 after completing all

tional Highways.

that

the

total

ber 2013 which has been

project cost for the Delhi-

taken up as a priority proj-

Jaipur Expressway will be

ect of the government. As

approximately

port & Highways has exam-

asked to bring a Note to

on date, there is no ex-

crore and with land acqui-

ined

financing

Cabinet seeking in-princi-

pressway built by the Cen-

sition and pre-construction

options for the expressway

ple approval by February 28, 2014.

Rs.9,460

the intermediate steps. Ministry of Road Transmultiple

tral Government and the

activities, the cost is esti-

and will proceed with the

Delhi-Jaipur Expressway

mated at Rs.11,750 crore.

most viable one. If success-

Ministry of Road Transport & Highways has been

by TNH DESK

F EB RUAR Y 2014|TNH (TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY)

Government News

Odisha Tourism takes significant leap Post-Phailin tragedy, Odisha Tourism is setting a big boost to draw both global and domestic travelers into the state. identified till today of which

Swaati Chaudhury

new Tourism Policy in 2013

to be held in Puri in 2015. The

that provides a lot of incen-

grand event is held once in 12

tives to private sector for de-

years. Patnaik added, “The

velopment of tourism. We

enchanting tourist places are

have also leased out our prop-

Puri,

erties to private groups on

Gopalpur, Talsari and other

Chilika,

Chandipur,

108 sites are equipped with

long-term basis in an attempt

eco-tourist spots and we are

ourism has bounced

stupas

monasteries.

to create quality infrastruc-

hopeful that the flow of do-

back to normalcy in

Around 300 domestic and

ture and accommodation op-

mestic and global tourists

Odisha

tions.” The department has

would be satisfactory in the

and

the

global delegates made to the

Phailin tragedy is all set to be-

conference last year. We are

come a thing of the past. In a

looking ahead to bring a lot of

major drive to entice global

global tour operators on des-

tourists into the state, Odisha

tination familiarization trip to

Tourism is taking the first

the state in a bid to explore

step by hosting second Inter-

the tourism potential of the

national Buddhist Conference

land. The upcoming Buddhist

at Udayagiri that forms an in-

destinations

tegral part of diamond trian-

Jaugada,

gle along with Lalitagiri and

Nagar and Kayama.”

Ratnagiri in the state.

The

are

Langudi,

Kuruma,

Snapshot

Manoranjan Patnaik Director, Odisha Tourism

Radha

department

sari, Gopalpur and Chandipur. of

For the first time, we have

current year. We are focusing on

•Second International Buddhist Conference at Udayagiri. •New Buddhist destinations opened. •Introduced mechanized beach cleaning at Puri beach. •Grand Car Festival in Puri, 2015.

few

potential

global

tourism markets like Germany, France, Italy, Sweden, the United Kingdom and the South-East Asian countries like Bhutan, Malaysia, Korea, Thailand and Japan.” Odisha Tourism is making a strong presence in global tourism marts and is into ag-

The conclave is an at-

tourism is putting a plethora

come up with mechanized

tempt to offer a big boost to

of emphasis on development

beach cleaning at Puri beach

made a premier attempt to

and electronic media. “Nearly

the state as a potential Bud-

of beach tourism. Patnaik fur-

and this will be introduced in

hold tourism road shows

1 crore domestic tourists and

dhist destination and is held

ther said, “There are a num-

other beach destinations. We

across Indian cities.

from

ber of prominent beaches

are laying stress on rural and

February

gressive promotion in print

71,000 foreign tourists visited

The tourism department is

the land last year. We are hop-

Manoranjan Patnaik, Direc-

along the 480 km coastline in

experiential tourism to in-

making plans to welcome a

ing for 15 per cent growth in

tor, Odisha Tourism said,

the state and the popular ones

crease the global tourist foot-

large chunk of tourists at the

tourist arrival in the ensuing

“There are 324 Buddhist sites

are Puri, Chandrabhaga, Tal-

fall. We have launched our

Car Festival or Nabakalebara

year,” further added Patnaik.

tioned `4090.31 crore for a

pose, Ministry of Tourism

total number of 1226 tourism

supports creation of new In-

projects, which includes proj-

stitutes of Hotel Management

ects relating to Product/ In-

(IHM) and Food Craft Insti-

2013 was a successful year for MoT Ministry of Tourism (MoT), Government of India achieved many feats in the last year.

frastructure Development for

tutes (FCI) in States besides

FTAs: Despite negative

same period in 2012.The for-

sector providing much needed

Destination

Circuits

providing financial assistance

and

signals from the global econ-

eign exchange earnings dur-

resilience.

domestic

(PIDDC), Human Resource

for modernization and capac-

omy, the number of foreign

ing 2012 was to the tune of

tourist visits during the year

Development (HRD), Fairs

ity enhancement of existing

tourist arrivals in the country

Rs.94,487 crore. FEE from

2012 are estimated to be 1036

and Festivals and Adventure

IHMs and FCIs.

The

in 2013 showed an increase of

tourism in terms of US$ dur-

million (Provisional), showing

& Rural Tourism for infra-

about 4.1 % over 2012. During

ing January to December

a growth of 19.9% over 2011

structure augmentation.

The National Council for Hotel

Management

and

the period January- Decem-

2013 were US$ 18.133 billion

Infrastructure Develop-

Broad Basing of Hospi-

ber 2013, 68.48 lakh (Provi-

with a growth of 2.2%, as

ment: Infrastructure develop-

tality Education: In order to

(NCHMCT), the administra-

sional) tourists visited India

compared to US$ 17.737 bil-

ment holds the key to India’s

meet the huge skill gap in the

tive body for the Institutes of

lion with a growth of 7.1%

sustained

the

hospitality industry, the Min-

Hotel Management (IHMs) is

during

January-December

tourism sector. Therefore, the

istry has adopted a multi-

poised to tie up with Ecole

eign exchange earnings from

2012 over the corresponding

Ministry of Tourism has been

pronged

Hoteliere

tourism in rupee terms dur-

period of 2011.

making efforts to develop

includes strengthening and

Switzerland for the upgrada-

Domestic Tourism: Do-

quality tourism infrastructure

expanding the institutional

tion of curriculum and teach-

crore (Provisional) with a

mestic tourism continues to

at tourist destinations and

infrastructure for training

ing methods at all IHMs in the

growth of 12.0% over the

be the main contributor to the

circuits. Ministry has sanc-

and education. For this pur-

country.

against 65.78 lakh in 2012. FEEs from Tourism: For-

ing 2013 were Rs.1,05,836

FEB RU ARY 2 01 4 | TNH (TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY)

growth

strategy

which

Catering

Technology

Lausanne,

by TNH DESK

Government News

On a growth curve Chhattisgarh Tourism Board has been at the forefront in initiating to develop tourism infrastructure and is all set to place the state on the Buddhist tourist map of India. Swaati Chaudhury ell-known as the desti-

nation of surprise, the

land of Chhattisgarh with 44 per cent forest area offers a plethora of options for ecotourism. Encouraged by the tremendous success of Sirpur National Dance and Music Festival, the state tourism department has set the ball rolling by taking a series of initiatives to P Sen Bhowmick General Manager, Chhattisgarh Tourism Board

develop tourism infrastructure, investment on hospitality industry, wayside amenities and has taken up aggressive promotion and marketing to bring about comprehensive de-

are concentrating on niche

Sirpur highlights the signifi-

segments of religious tourism

cance of the state as a promi-

Hunar se Rozgar Tak. We are

to woo domestic tourists. Our

nent Buddhist site.”

encouraging development of

key focus areas include rural

Sirpur National Dance and

sector under the scheme –

destinations on public-private

tourism, photography tourism,

Music Festival, the most-

partnership

camping and caravan tourism,

awaited grand event was held

There were only a few proper-

cave tourism, wellness and ad-

from January 4 to 6 in the New

ties at the time of formation of

venture tourism. The state is

Year. There are renowned In-

the state that have grown to 38

also emerging in the market of

dian artists performing at the

and 14 more properties are in

event. “The festival has been

the pipeline. We have identified

augmenting the grandeur of

few destinations for integrated

MICE tourism. We are concen-

Snapshot Priorities of Chhattisgarh Tourism: •Setting up tourism infrastructure. •Developing destinations on PPP model. •Stressing on cleanliness drive. •New eco-tourist spots setting up in a big way. •Few destinations to develop integrated and circuit tourism.

velopment in tourism.

model

(PPP).

the destination and highlights

and circuit tourism,” added

the best of Chhattisgarh’s tra-

Sen Bhowmick.

ditional music and dance

The tourism department

forms. This kind of event not

has published promotional lit-

only stimulates the demand in

erature in seven languages in-

tourist arrival but also ensures

cluding

Korean,

Thai,

the economic and social uplift-

Chinese,

Japanese,

Viet-

ment of the region,” said Sen

namese, Sinhalese and Eng-

Bhowmick.

lish. “The state is a popular

The department of tourism

eco-ethno tourist destination

is also focusing on cleanliness

and we are attracting domes-

drive since the flow of tourists

tic tourists into our niche seg-

would be up if the tourism as-

ments. We are trying to tap

sets are looked upon well. “We

global tourists from East and

are emphasizing on manpower

South-East Asia,” added Sen

training and generating em-

Bhowmick. The state had

trating our efforts to boost

ployment options with a view

around 1.5 crore inbound

Chhattisgarh

Buddhist tourism and the visit

to create human resource for

tourists and 4,172 foreign visi-

Tourism Board informed, “We

of His Holiness, Dalai Lama to

travel trade and hospitality

tors in the last fiscal.

P Sen Bhowmick, General Manager,

Chhattisgarh to consider linking faraway tourist spots with helicopter services The state has indentified 121 important locations from tourism point of view to develop there basic amenities in order to attract a large number of tourists to these locations. Prem Kumar overnment of Chhattis-

state government is taking all

the state, the state government

possible steps to develop tourist

would work with hotel associa-

facilities at historical sites and

tions and travel associations.

key locations of natural beau-

On the occasion hotel own-

ties in the state. The meeting

ers and travel agents offered

was organized by Chhattisgarh

many advices to agents. The

Tourism Board (CTB). The min-

tourism minister assured them

ister said that 121 important lo-

to consider their suggestions

ations and Travel Associations.

cations from tourism point of

seriously. The minister said

The interaction took place re-

view have been identified by

that the state government and

garh will consider the pos-

cently in Raipur, the capital of

CTB to develop there basic

the tourism industry would

sibility of connecting far-off and

the state. Helicopter services to

amenities so that maximum

work together to develop basic

inaccessible tourist spots of the

the faraway destinations may

number of tourists can visit the

facilities for tourist at tourists

state by helicopter services for

be launched with cooperation of

locations. The minister said

destination at the state, and

tourists so that tourists have

travel agents, said the minister.

that these are the destinations

solve other problems of the in-

easy access to these destina-

He also discussed with the in-

which can easily be put on the

dustry.

tions. This was informed by the

dustry representatives possibil-

tourism maps of the world and

Chandrakar informed that list

State Tourism Minister Ajay

ity of the industry and the state

the country.

of registered travel agencies

Chandrakar during his interac-

government working together to

Chandrakar said that for bet-

and information of the process

tion with the representatives of

develop tourist amenities. The

ter accommodation and travel

of registration will be uploaded

the Chhattisgarh Hotels Associ-

tourism minister said that the

facilities for tourist coming to

on the website of the CTB.

F EB RUAR Y 2014|TNH (TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY)

International Destination

Romantic Adventures in New Zealand There could be no better place in the world to be whisked away on a romantic adventure of a lifetime than new Zealand.

ush landscapes, star-filled skies and the breathtaking beauty of some of the world’s most untouched natural wonders and pristine beaches makes New Zealand the perfect place to fall in love. The opportunity to experience an intimate picnic atop the majestic Southern Alps, hear tales of enduring love at an ancient island, soak tired limbs in a warm natural spring or be enchanted by the luxury of one of New Zealand’s premier lodges is just what dreams are made of. New Zealand gives couples the chance to escape the hustle and bustle of the world and embrace the beauty of this unique country - and each other.

land. Where to stay: Just a short drive from the bustling Auckland city centre brings you to Mollies Luxury Boutique Hotel. Victorian grace mixed with bold contemporary décor makes this five-star beauty the perfect place to enjoy a flawless romantic

North Island romantic adventures NORTHLAND - Tane as your witness What to do: Allow the ancient and wise Tane Mahuta - King of the Forest - to be your witness as you profess your love while immersing yourself in one of the most magical cultural experiences in Northland. Let Footprints Waipoua take you on a mystical journey through towering native Kauri trees to visit the mighty Te Matua Ngahere (Father of the Forest), the graceful Four Sisters and Tane Mahuta - the largest Kauri tree in New Zealand - and king of them all. Knowledgeable guides bring the forest to life, intertwining tales of the stately trees, the role they have played in the lives of local Maori and the eco-system of the ethereal and unforgettable Waipoua Forest. Where to stay: Take a break from it all at award winning Kokohuia Lodge - one of New Zealand’s most romantic luxury lodges. Perched high above native trees - overlooking the magnificent seascape of the Hokianga Harbour in the winterless North - Kokohuia is as exclusive as it gets, providing a secluded retreat for just one couple at a time. AUCKLAND - Flight of fancy What to do: Leave the City of Sails behind as you take flight high into the sky and above the volcanic crater of Rangitoto and the beautiful marine playground of the Hauraki Gulf with The De Havilland Beaver Floatplane can take you to your destination of choice around the Gulf and beyond. Enjoy a romantic picnic on a secluded beach, an afternoon of feast and fancy at Waiheke’s delectable Oyster Inn or watch the clear blue waters lap the white sandy shores with an overnight stay on the rugged and unspoilt Great Barrier Is-

FEB RU ARY 2 01 4 | TNH (TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY)

retreat. Guests at Mollies can relax in the day spa, share a drink in the beautifully crafted cocktail bar, enjoy dinner on their own private balcony, grab a breath of fresh air in the lush leafy green gardens or take a stroll to Ponsonby, one of Auckland's hippest suburbs filled with boutique shops and a variety of dining experiences. TONGARIRO - Awe-inspiring adventure What to Do: There is nothing quite like sharing an adventure with the one you love and the world renowned Tongariro Alpine Crossing is the perfect place to do just that. Hailed as one of the best one-day hikes in the world, the diverse encounters experienced along the Tongariro Crossing take you on a journey of epic proportions, through mars-like volcanic landscapes, past sparkling blue and green lakes and rugged slopes filled with wild alpine flora and fauna. Adrift NZ Where to stay: Experience luxury on Mother Nature’s doorstep at the Chateau Tongariro Hotel. Couples can while

International Destination

the night away in an executive Spa Suite, indulge at the Ruapehu Room Restaurant, take a dip in the heated plunge pool, watch a movie at the onsite cinema or play a 9-hole round of golf on the highest course in New Zealand. Chateau Tongariro Hotel WAIKATO - Wedding fit for a Hobbit What to do: Visiting the Hobbiton Movie Set in the idyllic village of Matamata is a dream come true for many visitors and Hobbit fans alike. Loved-up couples ready to take their relationship to the next level can enjoy a wedding to remember amongst the blooms, birds and hobbit holes at the movie set - made famous in the Sir Peter Jackson directed The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit Trilogies. Hobbiton Movie Set Tours

setting. South Island romantic adventures KAIKOURA/MARLBOROUGH - Gourmet Getaway What to do: There is an old adage that states "the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach" and there could be no better place to test this theory than during a Gourmet Getaway. The Gourmet Getaway tour begins in Kaikoura - known for its bountiful seafood, venison and fresh organic produce - and ends in Marlborough - the Savion Blanc capital of New Zealand. During the getaway couples will experience mouth-watering dishes created by two experienced Executive Chefs. The food is expertly matched to some of New Zealand’s most tantalising wines from Marlborough’s Seresin Estate - purveyors of the organic and biodynamical process of wine creation. Where to stay: The four night gourmet getaway ensures accommodation is taken care of with two nights at the spectacular Hapuku Lodge & Tree Houses in Kaikoura and two nights at the exquisite Bay of Many Coves in the Marlborough Sounds. Couples will literally be one with nature as they look out through the canopy of native Manuka trees to the sprawling Pacific coastline and towering Kaikoura Mountains from their own Upper Branch Tree House at Hapuku Lodge. In contrast The Bay of Many Coves offers undisturbed views of the worldfamous Queen Charlotte Sounds. CHRISTCHURCH - Bubbles and Balloons What to do: Experience the stillness of dawn as you fly high above the unfolding New Zealand landscape in the first country in the world to see the sun. Aoraki Balloon Safaris fly you above ancient Canterbury plains while views of the snowcapped Aoraki/Mt Cook rise above. After the flight guests can come back to earth gently as they enjoy a silver-served champagne breakfast. Balloon weddings can also be arranged.

Where to stay: Step out of Hobbiton and into a fairy-tale at the mesmerising Underhill Valley glamping site. Situated on a working Waikato farm this secluded spot offers couples the chance to escape from reality. Built into a hillside and situated on a picturesque pond, Underhill Valley allows you to shake off the shackles of modern day life and enjoy being together undisturbed by everything except maybe the dawn chorus native birds. ROTORUA - True love never fades What to do: Prepare to feel chills as you visit the setting of one of New Zealand’s most enduring love stories. Rotorua’s ancient Mokoia Island, once home to Maori tribes, was and the place where love blossomed between Tutanekai - a young Maori Warrior and Hinemoa - a Chief's daughter of a rival tribe. The island is now a sanctuary teeming with native birds, plants and wildlife. Mokoia Island Wai Ora Experiences run daily trips to the island where their knowledgeable guides offer insights into one of the most romantic and mysterious areas of a region steeped in cultural history. Where to stay: Laze about in the lap of luxury at Black Swan Hotel - a sophisticated boutique lodge-style accommodation situated on the shores of the stunning Lake Rotorua. Black Swan expertly combines classic elegance with au courant design, creating a unique accommodation setting complete with a personalised service catering to your every need. Stop to smell the roses as you walk through the well-manicured gardens, steal a kiss in the secret grotto before enjoying some of the finest Pacific inspired fusion food, overlooking the calming waters of Lake Rotorua or in your own private dining

Where to stay: If fine dining is your thing then look no further than the award-winning The George Christchurch. This luxury boutique hotel - located in the heart of the vibrant Garden City - overlooks the iconic Hagley Park and picturesque Avon River. The George has two award-winning restaurants, 50 Bistro and Psecatore, one of New Zealand’s most sublime contemporary dining experiences, offering delicious delicacies that will leave you wanting more. TEKAPO - Starlight, star bright What to Do: Get in the mood for love at Lake Tekapo’s Church of the Good Shepherd. This iconic stone church is surrounded by the colourful lupins that grow on the shoreline of the turquoise hued lake and is the perfect setting for a wedding. Church of the Good Shepherd When night falls see the Southern-stars reflecting in the eyes of your lover at the Aoraki Mackenzie Dark Sky Reserve, the minimal light pollution here makes it a perfect place to make a wish upon a shooting star. Where to Stay: Surrounded by the commanding presence of the Southern Alps and sitting on the serene shores of Lake Tekapo, Peppers Bluewater Resort offers a truly romantic accommodation experience and provides a perfect base to explore Tekapo, Mt Cook and the surrounding Mackenzie District. FIORDLAND - Wondrous wilderness What to do: After a day exploring Franz Josef Glacier- one of the most easily accessible glaciers in the world - it’s time to immerse yourself in the steaming waters of the Glacier Hot Pools.

F EB RUAR Y 2014|TNH (TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY)

International Destination

Sheltered in lush New Zealand rainforest these hot pools have their own romantic tale to tell. According to Maori legend the pools are fed by the tears o K• Roimata o Hinehukatere, pining for for her lost love. The Glacier Hot Pools consist of three main pools. Secluded private pools can also be hired. Where to stay: Just because you’re in one of the most pristine environments in the world doesn’t mean you have to forgo modern pleasures. The 5-star, Enviro Gold rated Te Waonui Retreat offers one of the most indulgent experiences to be found on the wild and rugged West Coast. Health, rejuvenation and relaxation are the focus of this heavenly retreat, while the five-course degustation menu, featuring some of the freshest cuisine in the region, will leave you feeling blissfully fulfilled. QUEENSTOWN - Picnic on a peak What to do: Hailed by Lonely Planet as one of the top honeymoon destinations in the world for 2014, Queenstown offers adventure and luxury in one of the most romantic settings on the globe. Over the Top Helicopters can take visitors on a scenic helicopter ride to a secluded location, atop the majestic mountains that rise above the playful town. Here couples can enjoy a private, gourmet picnic surrounded by unrivalled panoramic views. Where to stay: After a day exploring the thrilling adventures on offer in the alpine resort town it’s time to relax, unwind and indulge. The award-winning Matakauri Lodge, situated on the edge of the sparkling Lake Wakatipu, offers luxury accommodation with a private outlook to the lake and breathtaking views of the Remarkables mountain range and the stately Cecil Peak. Despite being a mere seven minutes from the buzzing centre of Queenstown, Matakauri Lodge makes you feel like you’re a world away.

FEB RU ARY 2 01 4 | TNH (TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY)

Aviation News

Airbus A350 XWB makes inaugural landing at Doha’s Hamad International airport Airbus A350 XWB recently made its inaugural landing at Doha’s Hamad International airport. The company also honoured its A350 launch customer, Qatar Airways, with a stopover at HIA en route to Singapore Airshow. atar Airways welcomed

H.E. Issa bin Mohammed Al

eastern runway engineered to

is our flagship asset and will

vanced

technologies,

these

meet the requirements of the

soon be the new home of Qatar

highly efficient aircraft provide

the Airbus A350 XWB as it

Mohannadi, Qatar Tourism Au-

world’s biggest and most ad-

Airways and our modern fleet

better fuel efficiency of up to 25

made its first-ever landing at

thority’s Chairman, H.E. Jean-

vanced aircraft. HIA’s dual run-

of aircraft, including the A350

percent. Over 70 percent of the

Qatar’s state-of-the-art Hamad

Christophe

way

XWB family.”

A350 XWB’s weight-efficient

International Airport (HIA), be-

Ambassador of the French Re-

4,850-metre eastern runway

Now in its advanced flight test

airframe is made from ad-

fore departing for its next stop,

public to the State of Qatar, H.E.

and a 4,250-metre western run-

program phase, the efficient

vanced materials combining

the Singapore Airshow. As the

Angelikai Storz-Chakarj, Am-

way that are two kilometers

A350 XWB airliners are sched-

composites (53 percent), tita-

launch customer for the family

bassador of the Federal Repub-

apart. Designed for superior

uled to enter into commercial

nium and advanced aluminium

long-range,

Peaucelle,

system

comprises

two-engined

lic of Germany to Qatar and

runway efficiency, it will be able

service in the fourth quarter of

alloys. The aircraft’s innovative

wide-body jet airliners, Qatar

H.E. Maria Del Carmen De

to handle an incredible 100 air-

2014. Qatar Airways has or-

all-new Carbon Fibre Rein-

Airways Chief Executive Offi-

Labena, Ambassador of the

craft every hour.

dered 80 aircraft to date, lean-

forced Plastic (CFRP) fuselage

cer, His Excellency Akbar Al

Kingdom of Spain to Qatar, vis-

Commenting on the occasion,

ing towards the larger A350-900

results in lower fuel burn as well

Baker,

ited the A350 XWB displayed

Akbar Al Baker said: “This is

and A350-1000 models, which

as easier maintenance.

welcomed

Didier

Evrard, Executive Vice Presi-

on the HIA tarmac.

yet another key milestone in

better suit its business model

“It was certainly a proud and

dent, Airbus A350 XWB Pro-

The arrival of the A350 XWB

Qatar’s aviation progress. We

and passenger requirements.

symbolic occasion for Qatar Air-

gramme, and Phil Harris,

to Doha from its Airbus base in

have been steadily investing in

Senior Vice President Cus-

Toulouse was a unique oppor-

our infrastructure to enable us

mid-sized wide-body airliners

and ground control crew at HIA

tomer Business, Rolls Royce, at

tunity for both Airbus’ flight

to stay ahead of the latest de-

designed to enhance fuel, oper-

to experience landing the new

The A350 XWB is a family of

ways and our team of air traffic

the special event commemorat-

crew as well as HIA air traffic

velopments in the global avia-

ating costs and environmental

A350 at our new airport, as it

ing the inaugural landing.

control and ground officials to

tion

Hamad

efficiencies during medium-to-

gave us a unique glimpse into

Following the welcome

experience landing the new

International Airport, which

long haul airline operations.

the

notes, a delegation of Qatar’s

mid-sized wide-body jet on

was built for advanced aircraft

Featuring the very latest in

around the corner,” concluded

distinguished officials including

HIA’s brand new 4,850-metre

such as the Airbus A350 XWB,

aerodynamics, design and ad-

Al Baker.

sector.

exciting

developments by TNH DESK

F EB RUAR Y 2014|TNH (TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY)

Aviation News

Air passenger demand sees robust growth rates in 2013 The International Air Transport Association (IATA) announced full-year traffic results for 2013 showing a 5.2% increase in passenger demand compared to 2012.

he 2013 performance aligns with the average

annual growth rate of the

International Passenger Demand

past 30 years. Capacity rose

International passenger

4.8% and load factor aver-

demand grew by 5.4% in 2013

aged 79.5% up 0.4 percentage

compared to 2012 with all re-

points over 2012.

gions reporting growth. Ca-

Demand in international

pacity rose 4.9%, boosting

markets (5.4%) expanded at

load factor to 79.3%, up 0.4

a slightly faster rate than do-

percentage points over 2012.

mestic

travel

Asia-Pacific airlines’traf-

overall

ficrose 5.3% in 2013, the

growth (domestic and inter-

highestincrease among the

(4.9%).Strongest national

was

three major regions and

recorded by carriers in the

combined)

slightly above 2012 annual

Middle East (11.4%) followed

growth of 5.2%. After a slow

by Asia-Pacific (7.1%), Latin

start, carriers in the region

America (6.3%) and Africa

saw a pick-up in demand in

(5.2%). The slowest growth

the third quarter, supported

was in the developed mar-

by stronger performance of

kets of North America (2.3%)

major economies such as

and Europe (3.8%).

China and Japan. Capacity

“We saw healthy demand

expansion of 5.2%meant load

growth in 2013 despite the

factor was virtually flat at

very difficult economic envi-

77.7%.

ronment. There was a clear

FEB RU ARY 2 01 4 | TNH (TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY)

CEO.

Europeancarriers

saw

improvement trend over the

trafficrise 3.8% in 2013 com-

course of the year which

pared to 2012, a slowdown

bodes well for 2014. Last

compared to annual growth

year’s demand performance

of 5.3% in 2012. Capacity

demonstrates the essential

rose 2.8% and load factor

and growing role that avia-

was 81%, second highest

tion-enabled

connectivity

among the regions and a 0.5

plays in our world. And with

percentage point rise over

system-wide load factors at

2012. Modest economic im-

79.5% it is also clear that air-

provements in the Eurozone

lines are continuing to drive

since the second quarter and

efficiencies to an ever-higher

rising consumer and busi-

level,” said Tony

Tyler,

ness confidence are provid-

IATA’s Director General and

ing a stronger demand base

Aviation News

for international travel; and

rozone stabilized in Decem-

sreported the slowest pas-

global average but below

after weakness in previous

ber.

senger growth of any region

2012 growth of 7.5%. Capac-

at 3.0% compared to 2012

ity expansion of 5.2% meant

but an improvement over

load factor rose 1.9percent-

months, job losses in the Eu-

North American carrier-

2012 growth of 1.3%.With ca-

age points to 69%, the lowest

pacity up just 2.2%, load fac-

among the regions. Overall,

tor

percentage

the demand environment is

points to 82.8%, the highest

rose

0.8

strong, with robust eco-

for any region. The economy

nomic

growth

local

is showing some positive

economies and continued

signs: employment growth

development of internation-

has picked up, as has con-

ally trading industries. But

sumer spending.

some parts of the continent

Middle

East

airlines-

have shown weakness in-

recorded the strongest in-

cluding South Africa, which

crease in passenger traffic

recently experienced a slow-

in 2013, a riseof 12.1% com-

down in its economy, with a

pared to 2012, but below the

corresponding impact on the

15.4% growth recorded in

demand base for interna-

2012 compared to 2011.Car-

tional air travel.

riers in the region have benefitted from the continued strength economies,

Domestic Passenger Demand

regional

Domestic air travelde-

particularly

mand rose grew by 4.9% in

Saudi Arabia and the United

2013 compared to 2012, up

Arab Emirates and solid

from 4.0% in 2012 versus

growth in business-related

2011. Capacity rose 4.6%

premium travel, particularly

and load factor climbed 0.4

to developing markets such

percentage points to 79.9%.

as Africa. However, capacity

All markets recorded posi-

grew faster at 12.8% and

tive gains, with the strongest

load factor declined slightly

growth occurring in China

by 0.1 percentage points to

and Russia.

77.3% from 77.4% in 2012.

trafficexpanded

Latin American carrier-

by1.9% in 2013 (up from

sposted an 8.1% rise in de-

0.8% in 2012), while capacity

mand in 2013 over 2012,

grew at the same rate, with

down slightly compared to

the result that load factor

the 8.4% rise in 2012. This

was flat at 83.8%, the high-

was the second-strongest

est for any market. The im-

performance (after the Mid-

provement

dle East) and was support-

compared to 2012 reflects

edby the healthy expansion

sustained increases in con-

of economies like Colombia,

sumer confidence through-

demand

Peru and Chile. Capacity ex-

out the year as well as rising

panded 7.4% year over year,

employment activity, partic-

causing load factor to climb

ularly over recent months.

to 79.2%, up 1.3 percentage points compared to 2012.

Chinatraffic

climbed

11.7% in 2013 compared to

African airlinesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;demand

2012, the strongest for any

rose 5.5%, slightly above the

market. Capacity rose 12.2%

F EB RUAR Y 2014|TNH (TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY)

Aviation News

>>>

last year, with the result that

which was still the second

load factor declined 0.6 per-

best among markets.

“We saw healthy demand growth in 2013 despite the very difficult economic environment. There was a clear improvement trend over the course of the year which bodes well for 2014. Last year’s demand performance demonstrates the essential and growing role that aviationenabled connectivity plays in our world.,”

“

Tony Tyler, IATA’s Director General & CEO

Highlights of IATA’s Air passenger market analysis 2013 •Air travel markets grew by 5.2% in ‘13 against ‘12, despite high fuel costs, slow global economic growth. •Growth in air travel was driven by solid economic expansion in emerging regions, where less mature air travel markets continue to increase strongly. •Airlines in mature markets of Europe and North America experienced the slowest rates of expansion in ‘13, rising 3.8% & 3.0% respectively. •Both regions saw some recovery in air travel growth in ‘13, but growth rate was far slower than in emerging market regions. •Carriers in the Middle East recorded the strongest increase in ‘13, gained 12.1% compared to ‘12. • Airlines in Latin America saw growth of 8.1% in ‘13. •Domestic air travel increased by a strong 4.9% in ‘13, China, Russia recorded the strongest growth rates. •International air travel recorded robust growth in ‘13, rising 5.4% compared to ‘12. •Growth in international travel on Latin American carriers was also strong in ‘13, gaining 8.1% compared to ‘12. •Asia Pacific airlines experienced a rise of 5.3% for the year as a whole, in line with ‘12. •African airlines international air travel expanded by 5.5% ‘13, solid but slower than in ‘12 (7.5%). •Domestic air travel in China and Russia recorded the strongest rates of increase. •Air travel in China expanded 11.7% in ‘13. It is the strongest performing domestic market. •Russian domestic air travel volumes expanded 9.6% in ‘13. •Other BRIC states – Brazil and India – have seen considerably slower rates of growth in domestic travel, 0.8% and 4.0% respectively. •Japan’s domestic air travel market improved significantly in ‘13, expanding 5.2%. •In the US, domestic air travel expanded 1.9% in ‘13, which is more than double the pace of growth in ‘12. •Australia domestic market recorded growth of 2.8% in ‘13. centage points to 80.3%,

FEB RU ARY 2 01 4 | TNH (TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY)

Japan’s domestic market

improved significantly in

Australianairlines’

do-

2013 as annual demand

mestic traffic rose 2.8% in

rose5.2% (up from 3.6% in

2013 compared to 2012,

2012) while capacity ex-

while capacity rose 3.8%, de-

panded by 5.1% and load

pressing load factor 1.0 per-

factor was little changed at

centage

64.3%, by far the lowest for

Interest rate cuts have failed

any market. Significant gov-

to stimulate the economy,

ernment stimulus led to an

which remains broadly slug-

acceleration in the economy

gish, with rising unemploy-

in the first half of 2013 which

ment and fragile business

supported increases in busi-

and consumer confidence.

point

76.5%.

ness activity and improving

The Bottom Line

employment rates, boosting

Commercial aviation is

air travel demand. Brazil’s

celebrating its first century airlines

in 2014. “What was impossi-

recorded the slowest de-

ble yesterday is an accom-

mand growth last year, with

plishment of today, while

traffic up just 0.8% com-

tomorrow heralds the unbe-

pared to 2012. Efforts by the

lievable.” With these words,

government to stimulate the

Percival Fansler, creator of

economy have borne little

the St. Petersburg-Tampa

fruit, however capacity re-

Airboat Line, inaugurated

ductions by airlines of 3.3%

the era of commercial avia-

pushed load factor to 76.3%,

tion on 1 January 1914.

well

71.8%

“Fansler was right. The first

Indian domestic traffic

tion has changed the world.

rose 4.0% last year, com-

It has made it a better place

above

the

recorded in 2012.

century of commercial avia-

pared to a 2.1% decline in

through connectivity. For-

2012. The demand environ-

ward-looking governments

ment has been challenging

recognize the power of avia-

in view of the weakening

tion

economy, high inflation and

growth and spread prosper-

drive

economic

slowing manufacturing and

ity. These governments are

resource industries. Capac-

laying the foundations for

ity climbed 3.5% in 2013, and

our next century and in

load factor was 74.6%, up 1.7

doing so will reap enormous

percentage points compared

benefits. But not all govern-

to 2012.

ments are on the same page.

Russia had the second-

This anniversary year is an

strongest domestic market,

opportunity to remind short-

with demand up 9.6% in 2013

sighted governments that

on a 9.1% rise in capacity.

they risk being left behind if

Russian demand is being

they cripple aviation with

supported by a resilient

taxes, over-burden it with

labor market and govern-

onerous regulation, or fail to

ment

provide the infrastructure

maintaining high employ-

that it needs to grow,” said

ment and sustained income

Tyler.

policy

focused

levels. Load factor was 74%.

by TNH DESK

Aviation News

IndiGo launches 6 new flights connecting six cities India’s largest and fastest growing low-cost and low-carbon airline, IndiGo has announced six daily new flights on its schedule connecting six destinations, with effect from February 01, 2014.

within India. With 458 flights connecting

across the globe, these new date IndiGo’s position as the fastest growing airline in India. Elaborating on the new flights,

Aditya

Ghosh,

President IndiGo said, “We at IndiGo are delighted to

see the addition of a

tions to the six cities and

new daily non-stop flight

are confident that the new

between

Delhi-Bagdogra,

flights would prove im-

second non-stop flight be-

mensely popular with our

tween Kolkata-Bagdogra &

passengers. With the in-

Bengaluru-Chennai, fourth

creased flow of tourist and

non-stop

between

business traffic to and from

ninth

the six cities, that have a

flight

non-stop

flight

between

Mumbai-Bengaluru

perfect balance of metros

and

and tier-I & II cities, we are

one stop flight between

pleased to provide our pas-

Chennai-Bagdogra

via

sengers the opportunity to

Kolkata, providing seam-

experience the hassle-free

less connection to the air-

and on-time performance

line’s

that IndiGo is synonymous

entire

network

prove immensely conven-

these additional flights will

ient for our passengers.”

Key facts

flights will further consoli-

offer the enhanced connec-

Chennai-Kolkata,

with. We are confident that destinations

he daily schedule will

•new daily non-stop flight between Delhi-Bagdogra; •Ninth non-stop flight between Mumbai-Bengaluru •Fourth non-stop flight between Chennai-Kolkata; •Second non-stop flight between Kolkata-Bagdogra & BengaluruChennai; •and one stop flight between Chennai-Bagdogra via Kolkata •With 74 brand new Airbus A320s, 6E will now operate¬458 daily flights, connecting 35 destinations * All inclusive lowest one-way fare valid for bookings made 90 days before travel date. All fares are subject to change without prior notice. Limited seats.

F EB RUAR Y 2014|TNH (TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY)

Aviation News

Mumbai Airport’s T2 opens The four-level mega structure will ease congestion at the airport, giving opportunity to airlines to add more connections and improve frequency. Anand Shah naugurated by Prime Minis-

ter Dr. Manmohan Singh,

Terminal 2 (termed as T2) of Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport, Mumbai is built at an estimated cost of Rs 12,380 crore and is spread

opening of the new terminal

across 439,203 square meters

will enable the airport to han-

cities.

make way for the southeast

According to Sanjay Reddy,

tier of the new terminal. By

of area. The airport houses 140

dle more flights and offer much

MD, GVK Airports, Mumbai

this, the airport would be able

immigration counters 37 trav-

better passenger convenience

airport development is consid-

to host 45 million passengers

elators, 48 escalators, 72 eleva-

in terms of check-in, security

ered as the most challenging

from the current 30 million

tors and can handle 40 million

hold and baggage delivery —

airport expansion project in

passengers.” Earlier, Mumbai

passengers. The new terminal

the areas for all of those are

the world. “It will be a game

airport was blamed for heavy

will be operational from Febru-

substantially bigger than the

changer for the state’s avia-

taxation on airlines, conges-

ary 10 catering to international

old terminal.

tion sector, and it will become

tion in take off and landing,

During the inauguration,

the largest airport in the coun-

etc. But with the new termi-

in passenger capacity, the air-

Singh said, “I believe today

try with world-class facilities.

nal, few domestic airlines and

port will also have an extended

marks a very important occa-

For instance, the ‘Jaya He’ at

international

runway to handle bigger air-

sion in the development of the

the new T2 would showcase

showing keen interest to add

crafts like A380.

civil aviation sector in our

artifacts from 16th to 19th

Mumbai on their route map or

At present, Mumbai airport

country. This shows our abil-

century spread across 3.2 km

increase frequency from the

handles close to 30 million pas-

ity to build world class infra-

long wall. It is also tagged as

city.

sengers annually, that is more

structure. The T2 is truly first

world’s largest public art ex-

than the capacity of current in-

class terminal. It marks the

position and features around

Marketing, Musafir.com said,

ternational terminal, and has

beginning of a new chapter in

7000 works of artifacts,” said

“The opening of T2 will be

caused issues like airside con-

the growth of civil aviation

Reddy, adding, “By early 2015,

beneficial for passengers. It is

gestion and inadequate night-

sector in the country.” He also

the integrated terminal will

essential for airports to be re-

parking bays. Though these

informed that the government

handle both domestic and in-

ceptive to the comfort of pas-

problems that have dogged the

is considering to open about

ternational passengers while

sengers and meet the highest

growth of the Mumbai airport

50 airports for commercial op-

the existing international ter-

standards of efficiency and

will not change overnight, the

erations in tier-II and tier- II

minals will be demolished to

safety.”

their aircraft, eliminating the

New York, and Washington D.C.

need to do so on arrival in the

Etihad Airways will con-

traffic. Along with an increase

Indian Air travellers get benefit of new US Preclearance facility at Abu Dhabi Airport Indian air travellers, flying with Etihad Airways to the United States, can now clear US customs and immigration at Abu Dhabi Airport, enabling them to arrive in the US as domestic passengers.

US.

carriers

are

Manu Monga, VP & Head,

tinue to expand and build depth Indian air travellers, flying

into its flight network in 2014

with Etihad Airways, can now

benefitting Indian air travellers,

connect from Ahmedabad, Ben-

with fights to Jaipur to start in

galuru, Chennai, Delhi, Hyder-

April, and Los Angeles and Dal-

tion and customs, public health,

abad,

Kozhikode,

las-Fort Worth to join the net-

and Department of Agriculture

Mumbai, and Thiruvananthapu-

work in June and December

processed through US immigra-

inspections before boarding

ram, via Abu Dhabi, to Chicago,

respectively.

The preclearance facility allows

passengers

FEB RU ARY 2 01 4 | TNH (TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY)

Kochi,

by TNH DESK

Hospitality News

The third resort property

with a vast banquet hall with

cation for high end events and

of Berggruen Hotels comes

a 40 feet high grand entrance

weddings. We are sure the re-

‘The Pratap Palace’

with a unique set of offerings

to accommodate fairy tale

sort will soon become an im-

that promises a royal experi-

royal

the

portant attraction in Ajmer

ence of a singular league. Sur-

groom and his entourage en-

and Pushkar and one of the

The five star palace resort promises distinct luxury and royalty

rounded by the Aravali hills,

tering the hall riding an ele-

top tourist halts across the

the property is a true amal-

phant.

globe.

arches,

On the occasion of the re-

eys Resorts, an upscale

domes, rich green courtyards,

sort opening, Sanjay Sethi,

Holdings, a New York head-

Keys Resorts launches

gam

resort

brand

intricate

weddings

with

Funded

Berggruen

colorful gardens paved with

MD and CEO, Berggruen Hotel

quartered proprietary fund,

Berggruen Hotels today, an-

marble flooring and railings

said, “The launch of The

Berggruen Hotels was formed

nounced the launch of its first

which revives the cultural her-

Pratap Palace, A Keys Resort

in September 2006. It boasts

five star luxury palace prop-

itage of Rajput era.

is a very important milestone

of a strong management team

Fashioned as the epitome

for Berggruen Hotels. This

lead by Sanjay Sethi. The top

Keys Resort, Pushkar - Ajmer.

of royalty and magnificence,

showcases our relentless ef-

management has a cumulative

Located on Ajmer – Pushkar

The Pratap Palace, A Keys Re-

fort in making Berggruen Ho-

experience

“The launch of The Pratap Palace, A Keys Resort is a very important milestone for Berggruen Hotels. This showcases our relentless effort in making Berggruen Hotels a holistic hospitality company. This will provide travelers to Ajmer, Pushkar and Mayo School a high quality hospitality experience.

sort comprises of 80 well fur-

tels a holistic hospitality

years.

erty, The Pratap Palace, A

nished palace rooms including

company. This will provide

3 suites with one Royal suite.

travelers to Ajmer, Pushkar

launched

The

resort

promises

exceeding

Berggruen its

200

Hotels first

brand

the

and Mayo School a high qual-

‘KEYS HOTELS’ in January

bounty of nature’s flora and

ity hospitality experience. The

2007 and positioned it as mid-

fauna. It ensures a heightened

Resort is also an outstanding

market hotels. KEYS HO-

sense of pleasure and serenity

venue for destination wed-

TELS already boasts of 33

enthralling the guests with its

dings and high profile events.’

properties in India including

offerings. It has two confer-

Pratap Rangwani, MD

those under development and

bye pass, the property has

ence halls, a 24 hour global

and Visionary, Rangwani Ho-

follows the following modes of

been launched in association

cuisine restaurant, a fine din-

tels added that this resort is a

growth: Buying land, building

with Rangwanis Hotels Pvt

ing restaurant with bar, a

great addition to Ajmer. One of

and operating, Management

Ltd. The Pratap Palace, A

large swimming pool, gymna-

the core attractions of the re-

contracts, Lease arrange-

Keys Resort, is Berggruen

sium, business center, beauty

sort is its location. It is conve-

ments and now franchise. Re-

Hotel’s first palace property

shops, spa, meditation room,

niently located for visitors to

cently the company launched

and marks their venture into

several engagement activities,

the Dargah Sharif, Ajmer, The

its upscale business hotel

the five star luxury palace

courtyards, enormous parking

Brahma Temple and Pushkar

brand

segment.

space, water fountains along

and will be an outstanding lo-

the

Keys

Klub.

by TNH DESK

F EB RUAR Y 2014|TNH (TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY)

Hospitality News

the new age smart traveller.

Premier Inn launches property in Kharadi Pune Premier Inn India has launched its third property in India, in Kharadi Pune. New launch establishes Premier Inn footprint in Western India.

There is immense growth and

product and services have

development potential in a

been appropriately adapted

burgeoning market like Pune.

to the Indian and local market

We look forward to welcoming

tastes. Our mission is to be

guests to the Premier Inn ex-

trusted for a good night’s

perience.” “Premier Inn, Pune presents

Aly Shariff Managing Director, Premier Inn India

his is Premier Inn’s third

property in India after

New Delhi and Bangalore and

with our other properties, our

sleep and great value food and drink to transform the

“The launch of Premier Inn, Pune is a very proud moment for us and is essential to the brand’s growth strategy of catering to the demands of the new age smart traveller. There is immense growth and development potential in a burgeoning market like Pune. We look forward to welcoming guests to the Premier Inn experience.”

this edition marks the debut of Premier Inn hotels in west-

a refreshingly new face of

hotel market by uniquely

ern India catering to the vi-

hospitality to the evolving me-

combining high quality with

brant

mid-market

tropolis, Pune. Located in the

total commitment to guest

segment. Speaking on the oc-

heart of the IT corridor, the

satisfaction, at an affordable

casion, Aly Shariff, Managing

property has been designed to

price” said Shwetank Singh,

Director, Premier Inn India

our global Premier Inn stan-

Regional Vice President, Pre-

said “The launch of Premier

dards, offering consistent,

mier Inn, South Asia.

Inn, Pune is a very proud mo-

world class service to both

Premier Inn, Pune Kharadi

ment for us and is essential to

leisure and business travelers

will cater to its guests with

the brand’s growth strategy

seeking hassle-free and con-

109 rooms including 4 serv-

of catering to the demands of

temporary experiences. As

iced apartments.

city’s

Crowne Plaza Greater Noida: new address of luxury

by TNH DESK

Indian specialty restaurant, Spice Art serves delicacies from the North Western Frontier. Mosaic Pastry Lounge is a

Crowne Plaza Greater Noida has become the new address of luxury in Noida and Greater Noida. The hotel recently opened its gates to guests.

34 cover delicatessen serving an assortment of bakery items produced fresh in the premises and backed with an impressive

he new address of luxury

leisure traveler would desire.

selection of exotic teas and cof-

in Noida and Greater

The 400 key-hotel boastd of 272

and a well laid out kitchenette

onsite kitchen ensures that the

fee blends. A hotel is not com-

Noida opened its gates to its

well- appointed base category

with a dishwasher, convection

freshest food reaches the

plete without a watering hole

guests officially on December

rooms, 62 Club rooms, 49

heater, microwave, refrigera-

guests with the Chefs more

and Crowne Plaza Greater

20, 2013. A day of golf, relax-

apartments, 16 suites and 01

tor, washing machine and

than willing to interact and

Noida takes pride in having

ation and dining extravaganza,

Presidential Suite. The well

clothes dryer.

customize. Chao Bella brings

two. While Connexions will be

the hotel hosted 100 elite

planned and appointed rooms

The Crowne Plaza Greater

together the world’s two most

serving exotic brands with

guests redefining hospitality

with flat LCD TVs, Bose music

Noida brings in their signature

popular cuisines under one

great music and finger foods,

through a thorough experience

system, media hub etc gives

brands of food outlets ensuring

roof – Italian & Chinese. Hand

the soon to open Belgian Beer

of all facilities of the hotel.

the base room of 36 Sq M, a

a gastronomic extravaganza to

Rolled pizzas, freshly tossed

Café will be the first of its kind

Spread over 8 acres, the

sense of space and luxury to

the residents of the hotel and

pastas, soup noodle stations,

in India serving Belgian beers

hotel has everything to offer

the guests. Noteworthy are the

Greater Noida. The 220 cover

luscious dimsums, Pecking

in contemporary settings.

that today’s business and

apartments with a living room

All Day Diner – Mosaic with an

Duck are just to name a few. An

FEB RU AR Y 20 1 4| TNH (TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY)

by TNH DESK

Hospitality News

Hilton signs contract with K. Raheja Constructions Group Hilton Worldwide has signed agreement with K. Raheja Constructions Group to open first Conrad Hotel in India.

Raheja Constructions Group

operates the following hotels

who understands and shares

and resorts in India - New

our vision of the brand essence

Delhi: Hilton Garden Inn New

in delivering the Luxury of

Delhi/Saket; Gurgaon: Hilton

being yourself.”

Garden Inn Gurgaon Baani

With its foundation in the

Square and DoubleTree by

Art Deco style, the design of

Hilton

Conrad Pune will be character-

NCR; Mumbai: Hilton Mumbai

ized by bold geometric shapes,

International Airport; Chennai:

Gurgaon-New

Delhi

ilton Worldwide recently

our brand’s presence in India,

dashes of striking colour and

Hilton Chennai; Bangalore:

announced the signing of

one of the key strategic growth

hints of lavish ornamentation.

DoubleTree Suites by Hilton

a management agreement with

markets for Hilton Worldwide,

Providing the backdrop will be

Bangalore; Trivandrum: Hilton

Palm Grove Beach Hotels Pvt.

starting with this wonderful

expansive public spaces with

Garden Inn Trivandrum; Vado-

Ltd., a part of the K. Raheja

city.”

high ceilings of up to 40 feet (12

dara: Hampton by Hilton Vado-

Constructions Group, to open

Staying true to the brand’s

the first Conrad hotel in India.

essence of providing a world of

The launch of Conrad Pune in

style within, while connecting

310 tastefully-appointed gue-

Chinchwad; Goa: DoubleTree

guests with the local splen-

strooms with the latest in-room

by Hilton Goa-Arpora-Baga

dours around them, Conrad

technology and six-fixture

and Shillim: Hilton Shillim Es-

Pune will be an iconic struc-

marble baths. Guests at the

tate Retreat & Spa.

ture towering over Mangaldas

hotel will be spoilt for choice

Road, strategically located

with six stylish and innovative

the destination for the new gen-

within the central business dis-

dining outlets. The Large Ball-

eration of smart luxury trav-

trict of Pune. It will be minutes

room, divisible into three, will

ellers for whom life, business

“

“Conrad Hotels & Resorts has a global portfolio of more than 23 stylish properties in key cities and resort destination that offer a luxury experience that is personal, flexible, empowering and connects the global elite to the world around them.”

metres)

and

dramatic

columns. The hotel will feature

dara-Alkapuri;

Pune:

DoubleTree by Hilton Pune-

Conrad Hotels & Resorts is

from the commercial and en-

have a break-away function

and pleasure seamlessly inter-

tertainment hubs in Kalyani

room and a spacious pre-func-

act – people who know that the

Nagar, prime government insti-

tion area. Additional confer-

greatest luxury is the luxury of

tutions in Yerwada and pre-

ence and event facilities will

being yourself. A global brand

mier

include four boardrooms and a

consisting of 22 properties

neighbourhoods of Koregaon

fully-equipped 24-hour busi-

across five continents, Conrad

Park

ness centre.

Hotels & Resorts offer guests

residential and

Bund

Garden.

Guests of the

“

Kharadi and Ganeshkind Road

hotel will also be able to enjoy

personalised experiences with

will be within eight kilometres

the outdoor swimming pool, fit-

sophisticated, locally inspired

Maharashtra next year will

of the hotel and the Pune Inter-

ness centre, luxurious full-ser-

surroundings and connections

mark the global contemporary

national Airport six kilometres

vice spa and a salon.

to people and places around

luxury brand’s entry into the

away.

country.

"We are pleased to partner

the corner or halfway around

“The signing of this agree-

with Hilton Worldwide, a lead-

the world. Intuitive service is

“Conrad Hotels & Resorts

ment reiterates our commit-

ing global hospitality company,

delivered with the Conrad

has a global portfolio of more

ment to developing Hilton

and we are very excited about

Concierge App that puts Con-

than 23 stylish properties in

Worldwide’s

opening the first Conrad hotel

rad’s services and amenities at

key cities and resort destina-

brands in India. At present,

in the country,” said Sandeep

the guest’s fingertips, whether

portfolio

tion that offer a luxury experi-

Hilton Hotels & Resorts and

Raheja, managing director,

ordering room service or a

ence that is personal, flexible,

DoubleTree by Hilton, as well

Palm Grove Beach Hotels Pvt.

wakeup call to customising the

empowering and connects the

as Hilton Garden Inn and

Ltd. “We believe that with its

room’s pillow options or ar-

global elite to the world around

Hampton by Hilton have a

unique offering of luxury that is

ranging reservations at our lo-

them,” said John T. A. Van-

presence in India,” said Mar-

contemporary, stylish and inno-

cally inspired cuisine and spa

derslice, global head of Lux-

tin Rinck, president, Asia Pa-

vative, the Conrad Hotels & Re-

offerings. Conrad is a global

ury and Lifestyle Brands,

cific, Hilton Worldwide. “In

sorts brand will set a new

luxury brand of Hilton World-

Hilton Worldwide. “Pune is a

launching the first Conrad

benchmark in the hospitality

wide with plans to add 12 more

key gateway destination and

hotel in India, we are delighted

industry in the country.”

properties to the brand’s port-

we are delighted to establish

to have as our partner the K.

FEB RU ARY 2 01 4 | TNH (TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY)

Hilton Worldwide currently

folio.

by TNH DESK

Hospitality News

Clarks Inn enters the city of Taj The latest addition of India’s fastest growing hotel chain, Clarks Inn Agra promises to redefine hospitality in the historic city of Taj. Clarks Inn Group of Ho-

Bhawna Clarks Inn is strategically located in the

ness Center, among others. Hailing the occasion as a

are sure to indulge guests’ taste buds. With local delica-

city-center, in close proximity

landmark

company’s

cies; specialties from the

of Agra’s key corporates and

growth plan, S N Srivastava,

Mugal era and international

business hubs and just eight

President, Clarks Inn Group

dishes dining experience at

of Hotels, said, “The opening

Bhawna Clarks Inn will surely

tourist attraction, the TajMa-

of Bhawna Clarks Inn is a

be unforgettable.

hal, and will cater to the

great moment for us and a re-

With two function rooms

growing demand of reason-

sult of great demand that we

and a ballroom coupled with

from

Agra’s

biggest

tels, India’s fastest growing

ably priced quality accommo-

have witnessed from our busi-

state-of-the-art technical facil-

hotel chain, recently an-

dation from the business as

ness and leisure clients for

ities and a team of dedicated

nounced its foray in Agra, the

well as leisure travelers in the

Agra. Agra is India’s foremost

and

city of Taj Mahal and opened

city.

tourist destination, both in

Bhawna Clarks Inn offers ex-

India and internationally, and

tensive meetings and events

furnished and spaciously de-

has also emerged as a signifi-

space. The two halls, Barsha

signed rooms across different

cant economic hub in the re-

and Ivory, spread over 1600

of 58-key Bhawna Clarks Inn

The opening of Bhawna Clarks Inn is a result of great demand that we have witnessed from our business and leisure clients for Agra. Bhawna Clarks Inn reflects the true values of the destination as well as Clarks Inn brand.

“

The hotel features 58 well-

knowledgeable

staff,

categories including Superior,

gion. Bhawna Clarks Inn

and 4600 sqfts respectively,

Deluxe, Family Rooms and

reflects the true values of the

can take upto 500 guests at a

Suites to cater to the diverse

destination as well as Clarks

time and are well equipped

needs and requirements of

Inn brand.This property will

with latest audio-visual equip-

the discerning travellers. Key

continue to deliver on its

ment, LCD projector and

features of the hotel include

brand promise of providing

other such state-of-the-art

extensive meeting and ban-

world-class hotel experience

amenities and offers ideal

in the city. A contemporary,

queting

24-hour

with luxurious services and

place for cocktail dinners, of-

new-built hotel, the property

multi-cuisine restaurant, a

tremendous quality to the

ficial get-together, confer-

is designed to cater to the

lounge bar, roof-top fitness

value-conscious travellers.”

ences, seminars, workshops

S N SRIVASTAVA, PRESIDENT, CLARKS INN GROUP OF HOTELS

facilities,

new age well-heeled business

center, seamless Business

The restaurants - Bridge

and leisure travellers.

services, state-of-the-art Fit-

and the lounge bar - Illusion

IHG signs deal with Jain Group for 3 Holiday Inn hotels in West Bengal Kolkata, Siliguri and Durgapur will witness entry of the international hotel brand in the state.

training programme and even social events.

by TNH DESK

than 85% of the company’s

rants, swimming pool, gym

the business and leisure trav-

growth in India.

and a salon. Holiday Inn Silig-

ellers and we are confident

Holiday Inn Kolkata lo-

uri will be the first internation-

that these hotels will address

cated next to City Centre 2 in

ally branded hotel in the city

the increasing demands of

New Town, will have 150

and North Bengal area. Lo-

today’s consumers who are fa-

rooms, including four deluxe

cated on Hillcart Road near

miliar with global standards of

suites. The hotel will be built

Darjeeling More, the hotel will

hospitality.”

on an area of one lakh sq. ft.,

be built on an area of one lakh

Commenting on the occa-

Hotels

and will offer three specialty

sq. ft. with 80 rooms, three

sion, Shrayans Jain, Vice

Group (IHG) has tied up

restaurants, two floors of ban-

banquet halls, a 24-hour coffee

Chairman, Jain Group said,

nterContinental

with prominent real estate

queting facilities, swimming

shop, three specialty restau-

“We are pleased to join hands

company Jain Group to bring

pool, gym and a spa. Holiday

rants, swimming pool, health

with IHG, one of the biggest

club and a salon.

hotel companies of the world,

its popular and most recog-

Inn Durgapur will be the first

nized hotel brand, Holiday Inn

internationally branded hotel

On announcement of the

for our first venture into the

to West Bengal. As a part of

in Durgapur, located next to

partnership, Douglas Martell,

hospitality sector, with the Hol-

the agreement, the hotels will

NSHM Knowledge Campus in

Vice President Operations,

iday Inn brand. We are invest-

come up in Kolkata, Siliguri

Muchipara on National High-

South West Asia, IHG said, “It

ing

over

300

crores

and Durgapur within the next

way 2. Built on an area of

is a significant milestone for us

developing the properties. The

two-three years. The hotel will

80,000 sq. ft., the hotel will

today as IHG marks its entry

Holiday Inn, Kolkata is ex-

add to IHG’s strong pipeline of

have 100 guest rooms, three

into the eastern part of the

pected to be operational by the end of this year”.

Holiday Inn brand family ho-

banquet halls, a 24-hour coffee

country.

tels, which represent more

shop, three fine-dining restau-

brand focuses on needs of both

Holiday Inn as a

by TNH DESK

F EB RUAR Y 2014|TNH (TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY)

Hospitality News

Taj Group sets up second luxury hotel in Kolkata The Gateway Hotel, the newest upscale, five-star property from the Taj Group in Kolkata promises high quality, quick service, value-for money products and health food keeping with the price point. Swaati Chaudhury After a long hiatus of 24

Manu Sharma General Manager, The Gateway Hotel

explained, “Our strategic lo-

years, the Taj Group has

cation in the city bears a

thrown open the gates of its

close proximity to the Infor-

second five-star hotel in

mation Technology hub in

Kolkata known as The Gate-

Salt Lake and residential

way

areas as well. For the time

Hotel.

The

upscale

business travellers and only 5

per

cent

are

leisure

freaks, there is a separate breakfast

serving

groups. Our value-based of-

super nutritious, home-style

ferings are smart, clean and

food. We are planning to

functional and we are well-

come up with a speciality

positioned to take on MICE

outlet in the next six months

groups. It is the unique

that would exclusively serve

quality of our service; well-

cuisine from one particular

trained staff and price fac-

region. Very soon, a spa and

Snapshot

salon will open.” There are many chal-

The Gateway Hotel’s new products are:

lenges for the newly-opened

•Introducing Active Food. •In-house yoga. •A speciality outlet with cuisine from one region.

are foraying into the city on

hotel. Sharma added, “A number of five-star groups E M Bypass and competition

property with 197 rooms on

being, we are operating with

1.97 acres of area was for-

80 luxury rooms and plans

mally launched on December

are on to make our other

18, 2013 and is the premier

rooms on third, fourth and

service and offerings for our

venture of Gateway brand in

fifth floors operational by

esteemed guests.” The hos-

the city.

April, 2014. We are catering

tor that makes our group

pitality set-up is witnessing

to the corporate, free indi-

stand out in Kolkata.”

continuous, upward growth

Offering affordable luxury

would build up in the hospitality scene. Our challenge is to sustain high quality

to contemporary travellers,

vidual travellers staying for

The luxury hotel has

trend. “We are targeting at

the five-star hotel enjoys a

long period and we are open

rolled out an innovative con-

least 75 per cent occupancy

number

to all corporate tie-ups. Our

cept of health food in the

for corporate travellers in

guests comprise around 90

city called Active Food.

the current fiscal,” quipped

per

Sharma said, “For health-

Sharma.

Manu

advantages.

Sharma,

General

Manager, The Gateway Hotel

FEB RU ARY 2 01 4 | TNH (TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY)

cent

contemporary,

Hospitality News

Sofitel moves to a new geographybased organization

Senior Vice President Global

Reinforcing its mission to be the symbol of French elegance in luxury hospitality around the world, Sofitel joins Accor’s new luxury / upscale segment.

than 30,000 rooms). Sofitel

Marketing – Luxury & Up-

offers contemporary hotels

scale Brands ACCOR. “With

and

our marketing and design di-

today’s more demanding and

visions based in Singapore,

more versatile consumers

we will harness the dy-

who expect and appreciate

resorts

adapted

namism of this region that

beauty, quality and excel-

has a high luxury demand,

lence. Whether situated in the heart of a major city like

ofitel Luxury Hotels re-

sign functions will relocate

blending it with a touch of

cently announced its

to Singapore in the first

French elegance as only Sof-

Paris, London, New York,

quarter of 2014.

itel can do.”

Shanghai or Beijing, or nes-

move to a new geographybased organization, based

This reorganization fol-

This new organization

tled away in a country land-

on five key regions world-

lows the announcement at

reinforces Sofitel’s core mis-

scape in Morocco, Egypt,

wide. Inside this new organ-

the end of 2013 from Accor

sion: to be the symbol of

French Polynesia or Thai-

French elegance in luxury

land, each Sofitel property

hospitality

the

offers a genuine experience

ization, Sofitel, part of Accor

Chairman

Group and formerly a stand-

bastien Bazin outlining a

and

CEO

Se-

around

alone brand, is now part of a

new strategy for the Group,

world.

Gaymer-

of the French “art de vivre”.

newly created luxury and

focused on enhanced growth

Jones, CEO of Sofitel World-

Sofitel Legend and &

upscale segment including

and sustained value cre-

wide will be leaving Sofitel

Sofitel So are two labels that

Accor hotel brands Pullman,

ation. The vision is to trans-

after successfully transform-

come to enrich Sofitel Lux-

MGallery, Grand Mercure

form Accor into the world’s

ing the brand to be a key

ury hotels. Sofitel Legend

Robert

and The Sebel. These orga-

most valued and best-per-

player in the luxury hotel

hotels are iconic and mythi-

nizational changes further

forming hotel group.

segment as evidenced by the

cal; they are often centuries-

“This year Sofitel cele-

multiple global awards and

old listed heritage buildings:

port of Sofitel’s luxury ap-

brates its 50th anniversary,

recognition achieved over

Sofitel Legend Metropole

proach, and enable Accor to

and moving forward, the

the past years.

Hanoi, Sofitel Legend The

reinforce the Group’s sup-

leverage Sofitel’s expertise

new organization will help

only

Grand Amsterdam and Sofi-

and best practices. As part

share the excellence and ex-

French luxury hotel brand

tel Legend Old Cataract

of this realignment, the

pertise in luxury that Sofitel

with a presence on five con-

Aswan, Sofitel Legend Santa

Accor luxury and upscale

has so strongly developed,”

tinents with 120 addresses,

Clara Cartagena.

segment marketing and de-

said Rick Harvey Lam,

in almost 40 countries (more

by TNH DESK

Ayurveda rooms, a couple

herbal medicated oils and

suite, two western treatments

herbal powders to help you

room and a Salon. Done in

de-stress and relax. Western

warm appealing color hues

treatments such as Swedish

blended perfectly with elegant

massage, Jet-lag recovery

sheers and suffused lights,

massage, Take load off my

the In Balance Spa is ideal to

back massages are specially

In Balance Spa at Novotel Goa Shrem Resort now open! Rejuvenating in Goa now has a new address, as Novotel Goa Shrem Resort announces the opening of their In Balance Spa.

he philosophy of the In

Sofitel

the

soothe your senses.

designed for the modern day

Balance Spa is Sable –

To help keep the stress of

business executives and trav-

Sand. The idea behind the

modern day lifestyle at bay,

elers. While that’s not all the

theme is that the feel of sand

the menu at the In Balance

Eastern treatments such as

and colours can have a signif-

Spa strikes a perfect balance

Balinese Massage, Foot Re-

icant effect on our mood, be-

between Ayurveda, Eastern

flexology and Foot Bliss will

haviour and body. The experts

and

treatments.

help eliminate stress and

Western

at In Balance spa have crafted

Ayurvedic treatments such as

sooth your senses. The treat-

treatments that use sand as

Shirodhara,

Ab-

ment rooms are equipped

an effective beauty tool.

hyangam,

Udwartanam,

with individual steam unit, a

Located at the lobby level, the In Balance Spa has two

Uzhichil,

Mukhlepa, Shiroabhyangam and

Padaabhyangam

use

shower and a wardrobe. by TNH DESK

F EB RUAR Y 2014|TNH (TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY)

Hospitality News

2013: a challenging year for the hotel industry 2013 was a challenging year for the India hotel industry on account of the global and domestic slowdown, which impacted hotel’s occupancy and average room rates (ARR).

sustain this momentum, it

petitiveness, India was well

will be imperative to steadily

assessed in terms of its

augment our hotel room in-

human, natural and cultural

ventory in the affordable

resource endowments with a

tourist accommodation seg-

rank of 21, but scored an

ment. In order to achieve the

abysmally low position of

12th Plan target of 1452 mil-

110 globally in its regulatory

lion Domestic Tourist Visits

he Federation of Hotel

ship which can shape policy

framework for travel and

(DTVs) by 2017, the industry

& Restaurant Associa-

and guide business strategy.

tourism and 67 on business

needs to add 1,20,000 rooms

tions of India (FHRAI) re-

Our annual Indian Hotel In-

environment & infrastruc-

in the budget and mid-mar-

>>>

on their three pillars of com-

cently released the latest

dustry Survey is an exem-

ture. It is thus amply evident

ket category, entailing an es-

edition of its annual publica-

plary reflection of this very

that India has been unable

timated capital investment

tion, the FHRAI Indian Hotel

commitment and it is ex-

to convert its inherent com-

of rupees 50,000 crore. The

Industry Survey, published

tremely gratifying that this

parative advantages into a

Government must facilitate

sustainable competitive ad-

this massive investment by

As the leading national voice of the Indian hospitality industry, FHRAI accords high priority to producing credible research and contemporary thought leadership which can shape policy and guide business strategy. Our annual Indian Hotel Industry Survey is an exemplary reflection of this very commitment.

“

S.M. Shervani, President, FHRAI in cooperation with HVS Hospitality Services. A presentation on the key highlights and trends

vantage for our hospitality

reducing the minimum proj-

and tourism sector.”

ect cost stipulated for inclu-

2013 was certainly a

sion of hotels in the RBI's

challenging year for the in-

Infrastructure Lending List

dustry on account of the

from the present rupees 200

global and domestic slow-

crore to a more reasonable

down, which is also visible in

threshold of rupees 50 crore.

the pressure, witnessed on

FHRAI has also proposed

hotel occupancy and aver-

that bank loans up to rupees

publication serves as an in-

age room rates. In a tough

10 crore extended to SMEs

dispensable reference and

macroeconomic

environ-

in the hospitality industry

benchmarking resource for

ment marked by high infla-

should be permitted to be

hospitality

tion, rising interest rates,

classified as “priority sector lending” under RBI norms.

professionals,

emerging from this year's

policymakers,

investors,

currency volatility and a

survey was made by Manav

media persons and other

tepid demand scenario, hotel

Achieving a meaningful

Thadani, Chairman-Asia Pa-

stakeholders.”

cific, HVS, to a select audience

comprising

top

companies have prioritized

growth in Foreign Tourist

Sharing his assessment

realignment of their cost

Arrivals (FTAs), requires

on the hotel industry's per-

structures, optimizing oper-

that the Government must

hoteliers, senior government

formance in the past year,

ational

and

empower the industry to ef-

officials and the media, at an

Shervani said: “Despite sin-

adopting flexible business

fectively compete with our

efficiencies

event hosted by FHRAI at

cere efforts, both by the Gov-

models. At the same time,

peers in neighboring desti-

The Leela Palace, New Delhi

ernment and the private

the industry is optimistic

nations such as South-East

today. Parvez Dewan, Secre-

sector, India’s global market

about the long-term poten-

Asia, by urgently rationaliz-

tary, Ministry of Tourism,

share in tourism remains at

tial of the Indian hospitality

ing our complex multiple tax

Government of India graced

a disappointing 0.68%, with

sector and we remain stead-

structure,

the occasion as Chief Guest.

the country being ranked

fastly focused on pursuing

streamlined electronic visa

On this occasion, adress-

41st in the world in interna-

customer-centric innovation,

regime

ing the media, S.M. Sher-

tional tourist arrivals. The

delivering service excellence

tourists and reviving in-

for

adopting

international

vani, President, FHRAI said,

World Economic Forum’s in-

and tapping newer market

vestor sentiment in the hotel

“As the leading national

fluential Travel & Tourism

segments.

sector through measures

voice of the Indian hospital-

Competitiveness

Index,

A heartening trend for

such as single-window proj-

ity industry, FHRAI accords

placed India at the 65th po-

the sector in the last few

ect clearances and access to

high priority to producing

sition among 140 nations in

years has been the robust

lower cost long-term funding.”

credible research and con-

2013.” Shervani further said,

double-digit growth in do-

temporary thought leader-

“It is pertinent to note that

mestic tourism. However, to

FEB RU ARY 2 01 4 | TNH (TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY)

by TNH DESK

Hospitality News

Indian hotels maintains 60.4% occupancy in 2011-12: FHRAI According to the FHRAI Indian Hotel Survey 2012-13, the Indian hotel industry maintains its occupancy levels at a steady 60.4% in 2012-13 as compared to 60.9% in 2011-12.

Increasing contribution from

tribute a large portion of gross

F&B, Banquets & Confer-

revenues as they are not solely

ences to revenues

driven by occupancies. Addi-

The FHRA India continues to

tionally, the burgeoning middle

receive a greater contribution

class and its propensity to

from both the Food & Beverage

spend will continue to augment

(F&B) and the Banquets &

demand for F&B across cities

Conferences department. The

in India. With hotels focusing on the Banquets & Conferences segment in off-season months to beat seasonality, this department is also anticipated to increase its contribution to the total revenue pie. Declining Net Income (as a percentage of total revenue): The FHRAI Survey results in the last five years have shown that Net Income as a percentage of the total revenue has consistently declined year-onyear, as witnessed by a CAGR of -5.7%. The year 2012-13 has seen a decline of 4.7% in Net Income as a percentage of rev-

steady 60.4% occupancy

pounded annual growth rate

Banquets & Conferences seg-

enue over the previous year.

by the Indian hotels in

(CAGR) and demand at 17.3%

ment also recorded a year-on-

This phenomenon is mainly at-

2012-13 is significant in view of

from 2008-09 to 2012-13. The

year increase of 17.4% in PAR

tributable to rising departmen-

the country experiencing a

fact that occupancy levels re-

revenue in 2012-13 (2,26,793)

tal costs, which are a result of

slowdown in growth across

mained generally stable during

over that in 2011-12, while

rising inflation coupled with an

sectors, as reflected in GDP

this period despite strong in-

Food & Beverage recorded an

increase in Energy costs. The

growth of 5% for the year 2012-

creases in supply is indicative

increase of 4.2% in the PAR

last year also experienced an

13.

of the healthy growth in de-

revenue (`5,41,494) for the

increase in departmental ex-

HVS estimated that major

mand. As per the survey other

same period.

penses as a percentage of total

cities across the country wit-

key trend is that hotels are

revenues, resulting in declin-

nessed a growth of 11% in

dropping average rates to at-

Average Rate Occupancy

hotel room supply in 2012-13,

tract customers in the face of

According to Economic Survey

while demand exhibited a

increased supply. As a result, a

2012-13, Ministry of Finance,

ing profits Revenue and Net Income â&#x20AC;&#x201C;

strong increase of 9.2% during

new customer mindset is

Government of India, the rev-

2008-09 to 2012-13

the same period. The nation-

emerging that is sensitive to

enue contribution (in percent-

Increasing Utility Costs: En-

wide results of this year's Sur-

the price instead of the tradi-

age of total revenue) from

ergy costs continue to rise and

vey, however, reveal that the

tional one, which was more

Rooms has seen a steady de-

pose a challenge to the hotel

average rates declined by 3.6%

loyal to a hotel/brand. As oper-

cline over the last five years,

industry. The Survey, this year,

when compared to those in

ators battle increasing depart-

recording a negative CAGR of

has revealed a rise of 13% in

2011-12.

mental costs and owners

4% between 2008-09 and 2012-

PAR energy costs (1,82,067)

An interesting trend ob-

struggle with debt service pay-

13. Going forward, as the com-

over that in the previous year

served in the survey is the cor-

ments, hotel companies need

petition further increases in

(1,61,479). Additionally, the

relation between the supply

to reconsider their rate strate-

the market with the entry of

Survey results show that only

and demand growths, with the

gies.

new supply, we expect F&B

26% of the hotels surveyed

revenues to continue to con-

have an energy management

supply growing at 17.8% com-

F EB RUAR Y 2014|TNH (TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY)

Hospitality News

United States of America are the

largest

international

source markets for the Indian hospitality sector, contributing 23% of the overall demand in 2012-13. however, it has been observed that their share continues to decline as witnessed by the 4.3% drop this year as compared to last yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s arrivals. This may be attributed to the fact that Indian hotels have seen a greater contribution from the Middle East, Russia, and the SAARC nations. The rise in visitation from Asia and the Middle East may be attributed to the improved connectivity, easier visa norms and infrastructure development. Market Mix and Declining Seasonality: The Indian hotel industry continues to cater to system in place across India

Continuing high manpower

hour along with effective train-

the Business traveller, who

(Table 1-10). The rise in En-

to room ratios: Employee-to-

ing programmes. The training

contributes the largest share

ergy costs coupled with the

room ratios in India continue

programmes include cross ex-

to the market mix at 39% (Ex-

limited conservation measures

to be on the higher side when

posure to other departments,

hibit 4); this is primarily due to

employed highlight the dire

compared with global bench-

hotels and brands, conse-

the fact that most hotels are

need for sustainable practices

marks, almost twice as much.

quently incentivising staff and

situated in business cities. The

to be used in the industry. HVS

The all India average of em-

simultaneously training them

Survey also reveals an in-

is currently tracking a pro-

ployee-to-room ratio stands at

to multitask. This training fo-

crease in the growth of Meet-

posed

84,650

1.6. This can be attributed to

cusing on multitasking would

ing

branded rooms, of which 60%

the large chunk of four star

save on manpower and reduce

(fewer than 100 and more than

is actively under development

and three-star hotel respon-

payroll costs, leading to overall

100 attendees). As mentioned

and is expected to enter the In-

dents, which have an average

increase in efficiency.

earlier, it has been noticed

supply

Participants

segments

dian hotel market over the

employee-to-room ratio of 1.7.

Additionally, given the in-

across the country that hotels

next five years. Given the an-

Typically, hotels in India pro-

creasing supply of new hotels

are targeting Banquets & Con-

ticipated increase in hotel

vide services and facilities be-

entering the country, effective

ferences in off-season months

room supply, together with a

yond their positioning; hence,

training should be accompa-

with attractive packages and

high inflationary environment,

they require more manpower.

nied by growth opportunities

rates in order to off-set the low

HVS re-emphasizes the need

manpower

for existing employees and

occupancies experienced dur-

for operational efficiency and

costs, the higher ratios are

With

rising

sound retention policies, to

ing the traditionally slow sea-

sustainable practices in order

posing a problem to hotel com-

keep good talent from moving

son. Additionally, both the

to curtail further decline of

panies. Hence, companies are

to the competition. This will

Domestic Business and the Do-

profitability. Going forward,

now seeking ways to ratio-

also help stabilize costs over

mestic Leisure traveller have

companies like HVS sustain-

nalise employee-to-room ratios

time, as companies need not

continued to show resilience

ability can assist hotels in im-

and cut down on payroll costs,

incur fresh costs in hiring re-

and maintain their share of the

proving

financial

which will improve operational

placements.

pie and overall length of stay,

performance along with the en-

efficiency. Effective manpower

Changing Source Markets:

when compared to the nation-

vironmental and social one.

management is the need of the

The United Kingdom and the

wide average from last year's

FEB RU ARY 2 01 4 | TNH (TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY)

their

Hospitality News

survey. While the real growth

percentage of total revenues

in 2012-13 came from the Domestic travellers, it is interest-

low average rates results in

strong increases in supply is

are also lower when compared

the departmental expenses

indicative

with hotels of higher cate-

being high when represented

growth in demand.

ing to note that India also

gories. Going forward, with the

as a percentage of departmen-

experienced an increase of

increasing demand for budget

tal revenue. Also, Food & Bev-

hotels are dropping average

5.4% in foreign tourist arrivals

and mid market hotels, HVS

erage expenses range from

rates to attract customers in

(FTA).

the

healthy

•Other key trend is that

believes that lower category

63% to 70% of the departmen-

the face of increased supply. As

hotels will increase in number

tal income in three and one-

a result, a new customer mind-

Trends in Indian Hotel In-

and also have larger invento-

star hotels as against 50% in

set is emerging that is sensitive

dustry – Star Category

ries.

five and five-star deluxe cate-

to the price instead of the tra-

gories.

ditional one, which was more

Rooms Profile: The Survey

Departmental Expenses:

results reveal that the three,

We note that departmental ex-

two, and one-star hotels, along

penses steadily increase as a

Key Trends observed in the

with heritage and others cate-

percentage of departmental

survey

loyal to a hotel/brand. •As operators battle increasing departmental costs

gory make up 84% of the re-

revenues as the category of ho-

•An interesting trend ob-

and owners struggle with debt

spondents; this contributes to

tels decreases. The Rooms ex-

served is the correlation be-

service payments, hotel com-

the all India average of 58

pense is as high as 35.7% and

tween the supply and demand

panies need to reconsider their

rooms per hotel. Another ob-

28.1% for the two star and

growth, with the supply 1

rate strategies.

servation is that the average

one-star hotels respectively, as

growing at 17.8% compounded

•Despite economic slow-

inventory continues to decline

compared to 19.1% and 18.5%

annual growth rate (CAGR)

down in 2012-13 in India as re-

from higher to lower category,

for the five-star deluxe and

and demand at 17.3% from

flected in GDP growth of 5%,

2008-09 to 2012-13.

implying that the lower cate-

five-star hotels, respectively.

gory and smaller hotels do not

Poor

the

•The fact that occupancy

benefit from economies of

Rooms department with re-

levels remained generally sta-

scale. Their Net Incomes as a

spect to occupancy levels and

ble during this period despite

performance

the year saw hotels maintain occupancy levels at a steady 60.4% (60.9% in 2011-12). •HVS estimated that major cities across the country witnessed a growth of 11% in hotel room supply in 2012-13, while demand exhibited a strong increase of 9.2% during the same period. •The nationwide results of this year's Survey, however, reveal that the average rates declined by 3.6% when compared to those in 2011-12. •India continues to receive a greater contribution from both F&B and the Banquets & Conferences department. •The Banquets & Conferences segment also recorded a year-on-year increase of 17.4% in PAR revenue in 2012-13 (`2,26,793) over that in 201112, while Food & Beverage recorded an increase of 4.2% in the PAR revenue (`5,41,494) for the same period. by TNH DESK

F EB RUA R Y 2014|TNH (TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY)

International News

Nevada joins Brand USA to welcome travellers from India

travel internationally, India is

for Nevada to meet agents and

primed to be the next big mar-

tour operators who send trav-

nation within Nevada. The

ket for Nevada,” Krolicki

elers to the United States and

contrast of Las Vegas’ exciting

added.

encourage them to consider

entertainment and nightlife

Krolicki joined members of the international marketing

he Nevada Commission

organization Brand USA to

on Tourism recently at-

address

dignitaries

and

adding more Nevada destina-

with the state’s historic and

tions to their tours.

natural attractions makes it an

“We know that trade shows

attractive destination for inter-

such as SATTE directly in-

national travelers. Visitors can

tended South Asia’s leading travel and tourism event, SATTE to open the doors to Indian

visitors,

Brian

Krolicki, Lieutenant Governor, Nevada said. “We know

experience the thrill of Las

“With more than 50 million passport holders in India, and a large – and growing – middle class with a desire to travel internationally, India is primed to be the next big market for Nevada,”

Vegas and the natural beauty and serenity of the mountains and desert in one convenient vacation. “Research shows that In-

that Nevada is already a top

Brian K. Krolicki Lieutenant Governor Nevada

dian travelers want a destina-

destination for Indian travel-

media in New Delhi while

ers and that can only increase

NCOT and the Las Vegas Con-

this opportunity is strength-

cuisine, entertainment, cul-

economy

vention and Visitors Authority

ened by the cooperative efforts

ture, adventure, and beauty,

strengthens in 2014,” said

attended SATTE, an interna-

of Las Vegas and Brand USA,”

and Nevada has all of that and

Krolicki, chair of the Nevada

tional trade show joining des-

Krolicki said.

Commission on Tourism .

tinations with more than 2,000

the

Indian

crease tourism to Nevada, and

tion

with

shopping,

fine

more,” Krolicki said. “I have no

Tourism is a $58 billion in-

doubt that our time will be well

“With more than 50 million

travel agents and tour opera-

dustry in Nevada, employing

spent educating South Asia’s

passport holders in India, and

tors in India.

more than 450,000 Nevadans

travel industry what Nevada

appointment-style

and generating $2.7 billion in

has to offer.”

trade show was an opportunity

tax revenue for the state. Las

Puducherry, Bengaluru and

process to the people’s door.

Mumbai are already serving

This is good service and cus-

the clients of their respective

tomer-orientation

region. The centres in Goa,

best.”

a large – and growing – middle class with a desire to

Germany eases visa application process in India and Bhutan Travellers from India and Bhutan to Germany will not require to apply for the necessary Schengen Visa (short-term visa) at the German missions in India any more, but can do so much more conveniently.

The

Pune, Ahmedabad, Cochin,

its

Vishal Jairath, Regional

Trivandrum and Kolkata will

Head-South Asia, VFS Global

be operational over the next

said: “The fact that the Ger-

two months.

man Embassy has commis-

This new service is being run by VFS Global, the con-

sioned us with the visa outsourcing

application

by TNH DESK

Snapshot •Conveniently located and easily accessible state-of-the art Visa Application Centres •Longer operating hours allowing applicants to visit at a time of their convenience •Shorter waiting period between making an appointment and submitting the application •Dedicated counters for applicants and travel agents/ tour operators

n future, visa applicants

tract partner of the German

process imbibes confidence

can file their visa requests

Embassy. Highlighting the

in our abilities. I am sure this

in sixteen Visa Application

new features of the out-

association has a long way

Centres in India and one in

sourced

application

ahead. VFS Global in associ-

Bhutan. This new service-ori-

process, the German Ambas-

ation with the German Em-

ented and customer-friendly

sador

Michael

bassy New Delhi will bring

service will avoid major travel

Steiner said: “For most Indi-

convenience to all Indian

expenses, unnecessary time

ans and Bhutanese travelling

business and leisure trav-

spent and speed up the whole

to Europe, be it for business

ellers.”

application process.

or leisure, Germany is high

Catering to the growing

applicants to support the

Vishal Jairath Regional Head-South Asia VFS Global

Vegas is a world-famous desti-

visa to

India

cilities and benefits to visa

The Germany Visa Appli-

on the wish list. Therefore,

demand of Germany bound

growing demand in tourism,

cation Centres in New Delhi,

the visa application process

travellers in the region, the

trade and investments, and

Chandigarh,

Jalandhar,

should be as smooth as pos-

strategic move of the German

strengthening bilateral ties

Thimpu,

sible. With our new policy, we

Embassy New Delhi is aimed

between Germany and India.

Hyderabad,

take the visa application

at offering new services, fa-

by TNH DESK

Jaipur,

Gurgaon,

Chennai,

FEB RU AR Y 20 1 4| TNH (TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY)

International News

hosting

New Year bonanza from Tourism Queensland

Indian

highly popular MICE desti-

five

travel groups across Indian

nation. India also has a fair

cities of India like New

metros and they can em-

share of MICE tourists to

Delhi, Chennai, Kolkata,

bark on destination famil-

Queensland. We have joined

Chandigarh and Pune. Ryna

iarization

hands with Sydney New

Tour

Tourism Queensland is making a major drive by rolling out events and promotional offers to increase the Indian tourist footfall.

“Queensland

2014”

across

Sequeira, Marketing Manager, Tourism and Events Queensland informed, “For the first time, we would step in Chandigarh and

Swaati Chaudhury

Pune. The latest Bollywood

he mention of Great

flick- “Shaadi ke side ef-

Barrier Reef, one of

fects” has a particular song

the natural wonders of the

that has been shot exten-

world brings to mind the

sively in Gold Coast -a hot

spectacular land of Queens-

destination for fun-loving

land that provides an entire

travellers. We are promot-

gamut of opportunities for

ing the film in India along

2014

event

with

trips

South Wales Tourism to or-

Snapshot

ganize road shows in tier-II

New initiatives of Tourism Queensland: •Queensland on Tour 2014 •Introducing promotional fares for tourists. •Australia Tourism Exchange 2014. •Promoting popular Bollywood flick.

cities like Nagpur, Guwahati, Ludhiana, Trivandrum and Surat in March.” Maharashtra most

number

has of

the

Indian

tourists visiting Australia followed by New Delhi and Bengal ranks eighth in position. “Around 37,000 Indian tourists have toured Queensland last year of

all segments of travellers.

with Tourism Australia. We

Tourism Queensland in cur-

are working with Singapore

rent times is taking a big

Airlines to introduce spe-

The most-visited desti-

cent were business tourists

stride forward to entice a

cial air fares in February,

nations for Indian tourists

and 4 per cent were stu-

major chunk of outbound

this year. Tourists can avail

are Gold Coast, Cairns and

dents going for higher edu-

leisure

of our promotional air fares

Brisbane, the capital city.

cation. We are hoping that

next month and reap the

Sequeira said, “India forms

there would be a spike of 22

benefits till September, this

the 10th largest outbound

per cent in Indian tourist

year. There is also Aus-

tourism market for Aus-

arrival this year,” added

tralia Tourism Exchange

tralia and Gold Coast is a

Sequeira.

travellers

from

India. In the first concrete step

Tourism

the

New

Year,

Queensland

which 53 per cent were Queensland.”

leisure travellers, 10 per

F EBRU A RY 2014| TNH (TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY)

Spa News

he Khyber

an exhilarating ski session, or

climate of Gulmarg. Be it

skiers, the Deep Tissue In-

Himalayan

a leisurely walk in the dense

spring, summer, autumn or

tense Relief massage is an

Resort and

woods or meadows, or at the

winter, guests can choose

ideal recuperation after their

Spa,

beginning of your day.

Gul-

from a repertoire of signature

exhilarating run on the slopes

marg’s

“We are delighted to be as-

treatments specially crafted

of Gulmarg. Apart from this,

first luxury

sociated with L’OCCITANE

with home grown seasonal

the menu offers a gamut of

resort, opened its world class

which is a well recognized

flora combined with original

over 50 rejuvenating treat-

international spa, The Khyber

French beauty and wellness

L’OCCITANE products and

ments from aroma therapies

Spa by L’OCCITANE and the

brand across the world. It will

pure water from the springs

to concentrated deep mas-

Khyber

Block.

offer world class spa treat-

Within a year of its launch (in

ments and unique therapies

December 2012), the resort

that will enhance the charm of

has earned accolades for its

Gulmarg,” said Umar Tram-

design, services and hospital-

boo, MD, Pinnacle Resorts

ity. It will now offer luxurious

Pvt. Ltd, promoter of The Khy-

and holistic spa treatments

ber Himalayan Resort & Spa,

inspired by traditions and rit-

Gulmarg, on the opening of

uals of Provence, France to its

The Khyber Spa by L’OCCI-

discerning guests from across

TANE.

Wellness

the world and India.

uMAr tRAMBoo, Md, PinnAcle reSortS (ProMoter oF the khyBer hiMAlAyAn reSort & SPA, gulMArg)

“we are delighted to be associated with l’occitAne which is a well recognized French beauty and wellness brand across the world. it will oﬀer world class spa treatments and unique therapies that will enhance the charm of gulmarg.” in the Himalayas.

sages to nourishing body

“Opening of The Khyber

Just as Provence is a

Spa by L’OCCITANE is a mar-

unique restful place, the spa

The

riage of luxury with style and

at the resort too is your “Piece

The spa experience at The

Khyber Spa by L’OCCITANE

well-being. Through The Khy-

of Paradise.” It is a haven of

Khyber Spa by L’OCCITANE

Situated amidst the picturesque

Himalayas,

scrubs and body wraps for complete wellbeing.

located within the resort pro-

ber Himalayan Resort and

tranquility where rejuvenat-

begins with a welcome ritual

vides

Spa we will be able to serve

ing the body and soul is the

and then the guest is taken on

Provence in Gulmarg along

travelers to Kashmir and pro-

prime focus of the well-

a relaxing journey, sequenced

experience

with stunning views no matter

vide

trained staff. The Lemon

at every step by soothing and

where you are. With three sin-

rather Mediterranean experi-

Balm signature massage for

energizing aromas. The voy-

international

gle treatment rooms and two

ence in Gulmarg itself.” said

instance is a blend of Bali-

age continues through mas-

Couple suites, each with its

Darpan

MD,

nese, Swedish and acupres-

sages, relaxing music and

own private steam chamber,

Sanghvi Brands that is L’OCC-

sure massage techniques that

herbal

The Khyber Spa by L’OCCI-

ITANE’s exclusive Spa part-

rebalances the skin and re-

Provencal traditions. Wellness

TANE is a place to unwind

ner in India. The Spa aims to

vives

energy

Consultant and Spa Manager,

and be pampered, be it after

bring to life the invigorating

through the senses. For the

Dr Praseed Nair is always at

FEB RU ARY 2 01 4 | TNH (TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY)

Sanghvi,

the

inner

teas

inspired

Spa News

tique Hotel – India, for 2013.

lift in the world.

Earlier in the year the resort

The luxurious Mediter-

also featured in the Condé

ranean themed Spa L’OCCI-

Nast Traveller India 2013 Hot

TANE invites every guest to

List. The resort has also been

open the door to a Spa in

featured as one of Asia-Pa-

Provence, to experience the

cific’s best new hotels and re-

simple warmth of sunny soil

sorts

the

and a unique journey. Every

Destination Asian Luxe List

gesture, every ingredient is

for

2013

2013.

drawn from the L’OCCITANE

The Khyber Himalayan

grand herbarium, providing

Resort & Spa, Gulmarg lo-

an unforgettable authentic

cated at an elevation of 8,825

and sensorial experience for

ft. in the Pir Panjal range of

its guests.

the majestic Himalayas is

With an incredibly wide

spread over seven acres in a

and yet bespoke set, Spa

pristine pine valley. This in-

L’OCCITANE has an unparal-

ternational class, 85-key re-

leled expertise in catering to

dArPAn SAnghvi, Md, SAnghvi BRAndS (l’occitAne’S excluSive SPA PArtner in indiA)

“opening of The khyber Spa by l’occitAne is a marriage of luxury with style and well-being. Through The khyber himalayan resort and Spa we will be able to serve travelers to kashmir and provide an international or rather Mediterranean experience in gulmarg itself.” sort, clad in timber and

the needs of the most individ-

stone, offers breathtaking

ual and yet diverse tastes.

views of snow capped Affar-

Our therapists and opera-

wat peaks. Also situated here

tions

is The Khyber Spa by L’OCC-

training from the Spa L’OCC-

ITANE with stunning vistas

ITANE team in Paris and

from all its treatment rooms,

Hong

offering luxurious and holis-

branded Spas are currently

team

Kong.

receive

their

L’OCCITANE

tic spa treatments inspired

present in over a dozen coun-

by the rituals of Provence,

tries

France. The Wellness Block

launched the first set of L’OC-

spread over 8000 sq. ft, in-

CITANE branded Spas in

cludes

India in 2010 to great acclaim

Gym,

separate

worldwide

and

hand to provide expert advice

dition, features like an in-

for men and women and an

steam and sauna rooms for

from the Media and Award

on treatments best suited to

house laundry and minimalis-

impressive heated indoor pool

men and women and a heated

associations globally. Within

an individual.

tic use of utilities ensures the

offering dramatic views of the

indoor swimming pool. The

three years of launch, Spa

most

mountain ranges.

The Khyber Spa by L’OCCITANE is a fusion of Indian and

Mediterranean

hygienic

and

eco-

friendly experience.

well

awe-inspiring location of the

L’OCCITANE has become the

The resort in a short span

resort combined with the un-

number 1 international Spa

of just one year of operations

folding drama of Gulmarg’s

brand in India with locations

being. In order to preserve the

Adjoining the Spa in The

has received recognition from

changing seasons has been

in 10 cities in India. Every

beauty and natural environ-

Khyber Wellness Block is a

Condé Nast Traveller India’s,

tempting guests to return

L’OCCITANE branded Spa in

ment, the products used are

state of the art gym with the

Readers’

Awards

again and again. The resort

India will also exclusively re-

made of natural materials

latest equipment, separate

where it was voted as 1st

is an easy walk from the Gul-

tail L’OCCITANE products.

with traceable origins. In ad-

steam and sauna chambers

Runner Up – Favourite Bou-

marg Gondola, the highest ski

Travel

by TNH DESK

F EB RUAR Y 2014|TNH (TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY)

International News

MoU signed between UK and Indian trade bodies As per the UK Government’s agenda for India as a priority market, VisitBritain recently announced the signing of MoUs between UK and Indian travel trade associations.

is more than likely to surpass

dress issues. VisitBritain’s stall

India, including the develop-

its ambition to attract 425,000

at SATTE 2014 also exhibited

ment of a Culture is Great ‘Bol-

visits from India by 2016 -

the remarkable Mini Cooper – a

lywood in Britain’ campaign

worth £380 million in annual

car that invokes tremendous

launching later this year on the

visitor spend. The Indian trav-

love and enthusiasm among the

red carpet.

ellers visiting Britain last year

UK and Indian audiences.

Supporting the GREAT

were not deterred by the falling

Holiday visits from India

marketing programme is Vis-

value of the rupee against the

up despite rupee going down

itBritain’s annual India trade

pound, which closed around

New figures show that dur-

mission, taking place in Mum-

emorandums of Under-

INR100-level for the first time in

ing the first three quarters of

bai and New Delhi from Tues-

standing signed between

history in August 2013.

2013, visits from India to the

day 28 January until Friday 31

the trade associations of the

“India is one of the priority

UK were up by 9% on the same

January. This year the mission

two countries include MoU be-

markets for VisitBritain and we

period in 2012 - reaching new

is part of SATTE, India’s

tween the European Tour Op-

are committed to strengthening

records of 306,000 visits and

largest Travel-Trade exhibition,

erators Association (ETOA)

the links between British and

£349 million in spending. Con-

giving mission attendees in-

and Travel Agents Association

Indian travel and tourism in-

sequently, VisitBritain is more

cluding Wimbledon Lawn Ten-

of India (TAAI), between The

dustries. This strategic engage-

than likely to surpass its ambi-

nis Museum & Tour, Historic

ment between the two trade

tion to attract 425,000 visits

Royal Palaces, VisitManches-

Sir jAMeS BevAn kcMg BritiSh high coMMiSSioner to indiA

associations is aimed at closer

from India by 2016 - worth £380

ter, St Paul’s Cathedral and

collaboration to significantly

million in annual visitor spend.

Westfield UK the opportunity to

“well over one million Britons and indians travel between our two countries every year. This is the lifeblood of the unique relationship between our two peoples. The 9% growth in the number of indian tourists to the uk in 2013 shows that this relationship is going from strength to strength.”

benefit the travel industries of

The Indian travellers visit-

meet with over 10,000 agents

the UK and India.”

ing Britain in their scores last

from all over India to promote

Sir James Bevan KCMG,

year were not deterred by the

their destinations, tour pack-

British High Commissioner to

falling value of the rupee

ages and attractions, highlight-

India said: “Well over one mil-

against the pound, which

ing value-for-money deals and

lion Britons and Indians travel

closed below Rs 100-level for

unique experiences.

between our two countries

the first time in history in Au-

European Tour Operators As-

every year. This is the lifeblood

gust 2013.

sociation (ETOA) and Travel

of the unique relationship be-

While 2012 saw visiting

shown in the latest 2013 Anholt

Agents Federation of India

tween our two peoples. The 9%

friends and family (VFR) over-

GfK Nation Brand Index. Re-

(TAFI), and between Outbound

growth in the number of Indian

taking holiday and business

spondents from India rated

Tour Operator Association of

tourists to the UK in 2013

visits in volume, in 2013 VFR

Britain third out of fifty coun-

India (OTOAI) and UKinbound.

shows that this relationship is

visits were down by 4% and

tries for historic buildings, vi-

This is the first ever MoU be-

going from strength to strength.

visit growth from India was in-

brant

tween UK and Indian trade as-

I am delighted to see the enthu-

stead driven by 11% and 14%

contemporary culture, second

sociations to enable a positive

siasm of the British and Indian

uplifts in holiday and business

for rich cultural heritage and

Indian

perceptions

Britain are very positive, as

city

life

and

business environment for the

tourism industries to take this

visits respectively. As a result,

fifth for natural beauty and

travel industries of the two

to the next stage and offer my

holiday visits reached their

sport. Sandie Dawe, CEO of

countries.

full support to their efforts.”

highest level for five years -

VisitBritain, commented: “We

The signing of MoUs were

India & the UK have been

121,000 in the first three quar-

are fortunate that Indians are

witnessed by Sir James Bevan

historical trade and investment

ters of 2013 - and the amount

choosing Britain once again

KCMG, British High Commis-

partners. This is the first ever

spent on these visits hit a

with new records broken for

sioner to India and Sandie

stand-alone participation by

record amount of £62 million,

both spend and visits. This is

Dawe, Chief Executive, Vis-

VisitBritain at SATTE with 19

31% up from the same period

testament to Britain as an in-

itBritain at the VisitBritain

UK travel trade suppliers. This

last year and breaking 2008’s

herently attractive and good

stand at SATTE, India's biggest

Memorandum aims at defining

pre-financial crisis record of

value destination with a warm

travel exhibition, in New Delhi.

the common territory between

£60 million.2

Commenting on the announce-

the associations, establishing a

ment, Sandie Dawe, Chief Ex-

framework within which the as-

VisitBritain

of which will be showcased

ecutive of VisitBritain said, “As

sociations can jointly develop,

strong programme of 2014

and sold at our mission this

per our latest data, VisitBritain

create programmes and ad-

GREAT marketing activity in

week.”

FEB RU ARY 2 01 4 | TNH (TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY)

welcome and huge variety of

The results are a boost as commences

locations and experiences – all

by TNH DESK

International News

4 Thai cities ranked in B top 100 city destinations

angkok, the capital as

cities in terms of international

also a boon to Thailand’s

well as commercial hub

tourist arrivals. Three other

tourism industry, increasing

the country, has been

popular Thai cities, Phuket,

by 62% in 2012 to become the

ranked third in the latest Eu-

Pattaya, and Chiang Mai, were

largest source market for

romonitor International’s 100

respectively ranked 15, 17 and

tourists. As a result, Bangkok

Top City Destinations Rank-

70 in the same listing.

edged out London for third

Four cities of Thailand including its capital Bangkok have been ranked in top 100 city destinations by Euromonitor International.

Wat Arun or the Temple of Dawn in Bangkok

ing (2013 edition), covering

The top two cities ahead of

100 of the world’s leading

Bangkok were Hong Kong and

The report also stated,

Singapore. Within the top 10,

“By 2017, China will lead (the

place in the rankings.

six cities are located in Asia,

rankings

demonstrating the importance

largest number of outbound

of the region to international

travellers) with Germany in

travel, especially the increas-

second place and Russia in

ing numbers of Chinese and

third. Therefore, cities which

the

world’s

Russian visitors, according to

appeal to Chinese and Russ-

Euromonitor International.

ian travellers will experience

Overall, 32 of the top 100

stronger growth, especially

city destinations are in the

those in neighbouring coun-

Asia-Pacific, 12 more than in

tries.”

second-placed Western Eu-

In particular, Thailand is

rope. Thawatchai Arunyik,

well positioned to benefit

Governor of the Tourism Au-

from the strong growth of

thority of Thailand said, “The

both Chinese and Russian

vast majority of travel move-

travellers thanks to its prox-

ments within the Asia-Pacific

imity, shopping and attrac-

region is taking place between

tions although the current

cities. There is no doubt that

political unrest may under-

Thai and regional cities are all

mine growth in the short

changing remarkably to cater

term, more so for Bangkok

to the demand. We are happy

than

to see Bangkok, Phuket, Pat-

which can be reached di-

taya and Chiang Mai rated so

rectly.

other

destinations

prominently in the rankings.”

“In the long term, never-

According to Euromonitor,

theless, Euromonitor Interna-

“Continued economic growth

tional expects that Bangkok

helped (the Top 100) cities

will cement its position as the

collectively experience a gain

third most visited city, while

of 6.6% in 2012, outpacing the

Phuket, Pattaya and Chiang

4.2% growth of overall inter-

Mai will continue their ascent

national

in the rankings.”

arrivals.”

While

China was the fastest grow-

Chinatown at Yaowarat Road, Bangkok

The report noted that

ing source market and helped

countries which relax or

Singapore, Hong Kong and

streamline visa processes,

Bangkok retain their leading

develop strong relationships

positions, Singapore relies

with tour operators, imple-

heavily on arrivals from

ment targeted marketing and

Malaysia

Indonesia,

expand air travel will get an

which together account for

increased flow of travellers,

slightly more than half of all

which will benefit their main

arrivals, the report noted.

city destinations.

Chinese

and

tourists

were

Euromonitor

Interna-

F EB RUA RY 2014|TNH (TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY)

International News

lysts, which follows Euromon-

cialist trade press and trade

itor International’s methodol-

associations; industry study

ogy and definitions for travel

groups and other semi-offi-

and tourism. City arrivals

cial sources; and reports pub-

data was sourced directly

lished by major operators,

from national statistics of-

travel retailers, online data-

fices,

arrivals,

bases and the financial, busi-

hotel/accommodation stays

ness and mainstream press.

or other methods.

Trade interviews were con-

The

airport

secondary

ducted with national tourist

sources included governmen-

main

offices, trade associations

tional’s Top City Destinations

global travel research pro-

tal, inter-governmental and

and travel operators to fill

Ranking (2013 edition) was

gramme conducted in 57 core

other official sources; na-

gaps in secondary research.

built from the results of the

countries by in country ana-

tional and international spe-

by TNH DESK

TAT to host 3-city roadshow in India

TAT’s tourism strategy for

and jet rides, high end hotels

B2B initiatives in Ahmed-

The Tourism Authority of Thailand’s (TAT) Mumbai Office is getting geared for its annual roadshow, which will take place in Bangalore (10 February), Chennai (12 February) and Ahmedabad (14 February).

South Pacific Market Division

Niches such as rural

dian food while on holiday,

will address attending mem-

tourism, voluntourism and

TAT has worked to ensure

bers of the travel trade at the

golf tourism are picking up

that

event.

from India. Culinary travel is

equipped with names and lo-

A preview on TAT’s new

seeing a large number of tak-

cations of Indian restaurants

the coming months. Pichai

and exclusive dining, shop-

abad, Bangalore and Chen-

Raktasinha,

ping and entertainment expe-

nai. For instance, given the

riences.

Gujarat market’s focus on In-

ASEAN,

director

South

Asia

of and

travel

agents

are

strategy: Besides traditional

ers even if only as a compo-

across the Kingdom. Mean-

he road show will as-

markets which continue to

nent of a larger itinerary. To

while, consumer-connect ac-

semble more than 30 key

serve the destination well

attract India’s gourmets, TAT

tivities

travel partners from Thai-

such

budget-seekers,

is also hosting a Thai Food

such as golf and biking trips

land under one roof in each of

groups of young people who

Festival at The Four Seasons,

in Thailand have been a per-

these

gateway

visit for its nightlife and first-

Mumbai from April 8 to April

sistent practice for Chennai

cities. “We have brought to-

time travelers, Thailand is

15, 2014.

and Bangalore markets. TAT

important

promoting

niches

gether a sizeable contingent

also looking to attract the

Another noteworthy trend

of the most relevant hotels,

luxury-seeker and the well-

is the expanding scope of

golfers and bikers to the des-

DMCs and attractions to arm

travelled tourist that could be

Thailand itineraries: travel

tination. Additionally, across

the travel agent for the year

drawn by unexplored facets

agents reveal that soft-adven-

all three markets, TAT has

ahead,”

of Thai culture and heritage,

ture activities such as ziplin-

been hosting wedding planners on familiarisation trips

says

Buddhani,

Sethaphan

director,

TAT

has

escorted

groups

such as Muay Thai (Thai

ing,

kickboxing). TAT is also cre-

snorkeling find their way into

to Thailand.

ating awareness about its

almost every Indian itinerary.

India

event also promises to bolster

biggest festivals as part of

Moreover, tourists – 60 per

Thailand’s top inbound mar-

confidence

cultural

cent of whom are return trav-

kets, having crossed a million

Mumbai Office. The

industry-connect among

travel

promotions.

parasailing

and

remains

among

agents amidst protests in

Songkran; Thailand’s New

elers – no longer restrict

arrivals during 2012. Mean-

Bangkok. There have been

Year and Loi Krathong; best

themselves to Bangkok alone.

while, even as skeptics antic-

little or no cancellations re-

recognized by its floating

The Indian market is moving

ipated

sliding

outbound

ported out of India and with

lanterns are already a big hit

beyond Bangkok, Phuket and

numbers in 2013 due to the

the Thailand elections com-

among Indians who have ex-

Pattaya. Chiang Mai, Chai

unstable dollar and falling

pleted on February 02; tourist

perienced them.

Rai, Koh Kut, Krabi, Hua Hin

rupee, numbers to Thailand

and Koh Samui are seeing

remained strong at 1,049, 856

rapidly escalating demand.

arrivals which corresponds to

confidence is expected to in-

For the luxury-seeker,

crease in the coming weeks.

TAT is engaging travel agents

Travel agents will also gain

in promoting yacht excur-

The three-city roadshow

macro-level

sions, limousine transfers

is the latest among a host of

FEB RU AR Y 20 1 4| TNH (TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY)

insights

into

nearly 4 per cent growth over 2012.

by TNH DESK

International News

SouthWest Germany aims 2,00,000 overnights from India by 2015 It received about 1,55,000 overnights from India in 2013. Anand Shah he region aims to attract

over 1,75,000 overnights

2014

and

2,00,000

ing its annual trade and media FAMs, engage with trade through online and offline

overnights by 2015 from India

training

by promoting unique attrac-

much more.

tions, activities and regions.

programmes

and

Talking during the ‘Stuttgart

One of the focus activities for

meets Mumbai’ event, Hector

this year is ‘Stuttgart meets

D’souza, Director – India,

Mumbai’ – an exclusive wine

SouthWest

Germany

said,

event for wine lovers. The re-

“India is currently the top mar-

gion is promoting Stuttgart,

ket for our region in terms of

which has over 430 hectares of

overnights.

vineyards, wine museums and

close to 6.5 nights on an aver-

wine institutes, to attract In-

age in our region and the ex-

dian wine lovers. Moreover, the

penditure goes to EUR 175 per

tourism board will be conduct-

person per day. This way, India

Indians

The tourism board has an online specialist programme named Cuckoo Specialist. A total of 410 travel agents in India are Cuckoo Specialist and the tourism board is aiming to further improve the specialist numbers through educating agents about the region.

spend

is one of our top markets and we will continue focusing on it through innovative ideas and events. Additionally, we are not just positioning our region as a leisure or business destination but are also aiming to attract niche travel segments. tors from India to further expand

South African Tourism conducts its 11th roadshow in India

their understanding of South Africa as a leisure holiday and MICE destination. South African Tourism alongside our partners

This year the four-city roadshow travels to Kolkata, New Delhi, Chennai and Mumbai with 66 South African suppliers.

from South Africa, have used this platform to further develop and

outh African Tourism wel-

Slabber, Country Manager, South

strengthen business opportuni-

comed the new-year with its

African Tourism, India, said “We

ties with the Indian travel

biggest travel trade engagement

organize one of the biggest trade

agents”.

initiative - the annual roadshow,

roadshows in the travel and

which was organised in Kolkata,

tourism industry in India. Seeing

Delhi, Chennai and Mumbai was

the increasing outbound travel

attended by over 1200 Indian

demand from the Indian market

travel agents.

Last year, the annual roadshow saw participation from over Hanneli Slabber Country Manager South African Tourism, India

1100 Indian travel agents and over sixty-six South African sup-

and the year-on-year success of

pliers.

The annual roadshow is an

our roadshows, we have put in

African Tourism said, “Over the

Over the years, South African

interactive platform of enhancing

our best efforts to get a diverse

last decade, the annual road-

Tourism has witnessed a tremen-

the destination knowledge of the

mix of South African suppliers to

shows have proven to be a great

dous increase in Indian tourist ar-

frontline staff of travel agencies,

this year’s roadshow and are

learning tool for us to grow in the

rivals to South Africa. 76,116

helping them in planning itiner-

hopeful to forge many more suc-

Indian market by improving our

Indian tourists have visited South

aries and managing customer

cessful partnerships with the In-

travel trade outreach and engage-

Africa between Jan 2013 to Au-

queries.

dian travel trade.”

ment in the country. Each year,

gust 2013, which is an increase of

our roadshow has provided a

8.4% vis-à-vis the same period

great platform for travel opera-

last year.

Speaking on the 11th roadshow commencement, Hanneli

Evelyn Mahlaba, Regional Director,

Australasia,

South

by TNH DESK

F EB RUAR Y 2014|TNH (TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY)

Event Watch

Promising new TAAI-NR team conducts its first meet A promising new team of Travel Agents Association of India (TAAI)-Northern Region (NR) recently held its first meeting in New Delhi. The meeting was conducted differently than meetings in the past. Each and every member got a chance to interact and give valuable suggestions to the committee. This is a step in the right direction since the members are more involved and enthusiastic which will hopefully help TAAI regain its lost glory and cater to the larger interest of the industry.

F EB RU AR Y 201 4| TNH (TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY)

International News

Zambia Tourism to augment its growth in Indian market

attractions like parks, lakes,

Zambia Tourism is keen to augment its growth in Indian market. Zambia Tourism Board will conduct road shows and familiarization trips for Indian market.

nects with India through

rich heritage and culture but

Kenya Airways, South African

the main USP of Zambia re-

Airways, Ethiopian Airlines

mains the World Heritage Site

and Emirates.

of Victoria Falls, the only nat-

Zambia is the new face of

ural wonder of the World in

Africa and is a safe and se-

Africa and the largest curtain

cure destination with one of

of falling water in the World.

the fastest growing economies

aving recently partici-

great potential as it is among

Another interesting feature of

in the world. With 20 national

pated

Mato Shimabale Director Marketing Zambia Tourism Board

the top ten in terms of ar-

the falls is the Devil’s pool

parks, including South Lu-

Delhi, Zambia Tourism Board

SATTE

rivals. We have seen Indian

rated by Trip Advisor as the

angwa National Park and

(ZTB) is all set to tap the

arrivals of around 20,000 in

Best natural swimming Pool in

Kafue National Park, adven-

growing Indian market ac-

the last two years and are

the World. It is right at the lip

ture activities like abseiling,

tively in 2014. Implementing a

looking at doubling the num-

of the Victoria Falls providing

bungee jumping, microlight-

stronger marketing campaign

bers in the next few years. We

a vantage and unforgettable

ing, white-water rafting, re-

in India will be the main focus

will work closely with our

view of the falls. Zambia also

sorts and hotels from budget

for ZTB this year which will

India

Blue

houses a huge Indian commu-

to luxury, Zambia is an ideal

involve

road

Square Consultants to im-

nity thus making it easier to

destination for the perfect mix

shows, organising workshops

prove the leisure arrivals with

tap the Indian market.”

of business and pleasure trav-

and familiarization trips for

increased destination aware-

Zambia Tourism debuted

ellers. The Travel Chanel “An-

the Indian travel trade and

ness in the Indian market. We

in the Indian market in 2013

imal Planet” has recognised

media.

feel Indians are looking at ex-

when they participated at Out-

the South Luangwa as having

ploring new and exciting des-

bound Travel Mart (OTM),

one of the highest concentra-

tinations

Mumbai and also won the

tion of animals in Africa. Zam-

Tourism Board said, “India is

Africa is a product they will

award of ‘Best New Destina-

bia receives over one million

a very important market with

love. The country has tourist

tion’ at the mart. Zambia con-

arrivals every year. by TNH DESK

conducting

Mato Shimabale, Director

Marketing,

Zambia

Indian nationals continue to flock to Australia

representative

and

Zambia

are being drawn to Australia’s

stunning attractions – no doubt

tourism – the 2020 Tourism In-

diverse and cosmopolitan cities,

contributed to the strong in-

dustry Potential - to improve the

as well as our stunning natural

crease in numbers.

industry’s performance and

landscapes,” Suckling said.

Tourism Australia is re-

competitiveness.

The

2020

“I’m confident Australia will

sponsible for promoting Aus-

Tourism Industry Potential is a

continue to receive more and

tralia world-wide as the world’s

10 year vision for the industry

more visitors from this country,

best destination for business

which

which will continue to benefit

and leisure. Through a wide

overnight expenditure gener-

our bilateral relationship.”

range of activities Tourism Aus-

ated by tourism to as much as $140 billion by 2020.

aims

grow

the

Australia’s High Commissioner to India, Patrick Suckling, has welcomed new figures showing another increase in the number of Indian visitors to Australia.

Just over 40 per cent of the

tralia aims to raise awareness

total number of visitors to Aus-

of Australia’s unique attributes

To achieve the 2020 Poten-

here were 16,300 visitors

tralia came to visit friends and

which attract and entice visi-

tial, Tourism Australia operates

from India during Novem-

relatives.

ber 2013, a rise of more than 18

tors to experience our country.

in key markets around the

“The flow of people between

Our activities in 23 markets, in-

world offering the greatest op-

per cent over same month in

India and Australia is increas-

cluding Australia, include ad-

portunities for tourism growth

2012. A total of 173 500 people

ing in volume, and this is deep-

vertising, public relations and

including Australia. This in-

from India visited Australia in

ening and strengthening the

media programs, trade shows

cludes

established

markets

the first 11 months of 2013 – up

bonds between our two coun-

and programs for the tourism

such as the United Kingdom,

more than 13 per cent from the

tries,” Suckling said. Suckling

industry, consumer promotions,

Japan, New Zealand, USA, Ger-

same period last year. India is

said Air India’s new direct

online communications and re-

many, Korea, and China; growth

now Australia’s 10th largest

flights to Australia - as well as

search.

markets such as Canada, Sin-

market for visitors.

a renewed marketing campaign

In November 2010 Tourism

“It’s wonderful that an ever

by Tourism Australia which

Australia unveiled a new strate-

Taiwan, India; Thailand, and

increasing number of Indians

draws attention to the country’s

gic approach for Australian

Gulf Countries.

gapore, Malaysia, Hong Kong, by TNH DESK

F EB RUAR Y 2014|TNH (TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY)

In Conversation

‘Location is the USP of our hotel’ In conversation with , Vineet Mishra, General Manger, Courtyard by Marriott Pune City Centre talked about various aspects of his hotel. able guests unwind. To help

and we have seen a manifold in-

travellers make the most of

crease in the number of social

Explaining key features of his

their time on the road, we also

caterings we do. Our TripAdvi-

hotel, Vineet Mishra said, “Our

have recreational facilities such

sor ratings have also gone up –

Prem Kumar

hotel caters primarily to the

as Evviva Sky Lounge our

we now feature among the top

business travel segment, so all

rooftop bar, an outdoor pool and

10 hotels in the city,” said

our services, facilities and

a state-of-the-art fitness center.

Mishra.

amenities are designed to suit

We also extend outdoor cater-

In 2013, Courtyard by Mar-

the requirements of the modern

ing services and have dedicated

riott Pune City Centre focused

business traveller. Our refresh-

on-site wedding specialists.”

a lot on social media and build-

ing lobby is spacious, has a lot

As regards the USP of the

ing and strengthening its pres-

of natural lighting and has pro-

hotel, Mishra said, “Our USP is

ence on the digital platform.

visions for guests to work on their

laptops/mobile

phones.”

definitely the location. We are

“Our primary focus was to in-

located right in the heart of the

crease our targeted fan base on

“

He further

city and in proximity to the rail-

Facebook which was driven by

Our hotel has done very well over the past six months. Our room revenues have grown by 22.7% over last year, our F&B revenues have more than doubled over 2012 and we have seen a manifold increase in the number of social caterings we do. way station. The airport and

our creative and interesting

“Our

the city’s key business districts

content,” said Mishra. He

rooms are clut-

are a short drive from the hotel.

added, “Through Twitter we

ter-free and have

Shopping malls and entertain-

took the opportunity to connect

ment hubs are also very well ac-

and interact with the city’s key

cessible.”

influencers and food bloggers.

access

high-

speed internet, an

Vineet Mishra General Manager Courtyard by Marriott Pune City Centre

FEB RU AR Y 20 1 4| TNH (TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY)

“

e x plained,

LCD plasma TV, an

Marriott Pune City Centre has

iPod station, a lap-

We also heavily focus on PR and

done very well over the past six

consistently participate in food,

top-sized

elec-

months. “Our room revenues

hospitality and industry stories.

tronic

safe,

have grown by 22.7% over last

We also leverage our relation-

among

other

year, our F&B revenues have

ship with online travel partners.

features that en-

more than doubled over 2012

Going forward, we will continue

In Conversation

to reinforce these mediums and

and wine-based and music-based

tion System and Marriott.com,

try. In the past five years, the city

also focus further on search en-

properties are in the pipeline for

and online travel partners like

has seen a staggering growth of

gine optimization and driving in

Evviva Sky Lounge,” said Mishra,

Makemytrip, Expedia, Orbitz, etc.

over 320% in room supply result-

traffic to our hotel website.”

adding, “Our sales associates are

Our main distribution channels

ing in a decline in occupancy each

technologically-equipped on their

among the OTAs are Expedia and

year as per HVS report 2011-

Every hotel has the basic offerings in terms of rooms and ameni-

sales calls with tabs to showcase

Booking.com and among GDSs

2012. However hotels are focusing

ties, but what each hotel does over

our hotel and pitch for business.”

are Sabre and Galileo. Not many

on improving occupancy rates and the forecast for 2013-14 looks positive As regards the future outlook for the Pune hotel market, Mishra said that Owing to the increasing demand for rooms that was witnessed in the past five years, hotels stepped up their occupancy capacity manifold. “These efforts then led to an over-supply of rooms vis-à-vis the demand, which has proven to be our industry’s biggest challenge. Due to this, there has undeniably been a downward trend observed in pricing. As the growth in supply plateaus, we look at occupancy rates to continue to improve. However, hotels located in the

and above this to differentiate it-

The hotel is also exploring differ-

customers even today prefer

Nagar Road belt will continue to

self is what is crucial. “We at

ent and creative set-up formats in

booking through the hotel website

face pressure from over-supply of

Courtyard by Marriott Pune City

its banquets to enhance guest ex-

whereas we still see a lot of book-

rooms,” said Mishra.

Centre believe in giving a personal

perience. “Meetings are going to

ings coming through the OTAs,”

A major challenge for hotels in the

touch to enhance the guest experi-

be of big focus moving forward,

said Mishra.

city is that they operate in a very

ence. For instance, F&B offers are

using guest feedback, we are

Sharing his assessment of the

competitive market. “Over the

customized and meal/diet prefer-

working on experiential elements

current hotel market in Pune,

past few years, growth in supply

ences are monitored for long stay

to make meetings more produc-

Mishra said that Pune has been

of rooms is especially being wit-

guests,” said Mishra. He added,

tive,” said Mishra. He added, “We

transformed from a quiet town to

nessed in the industrial belts of

“We even offer in-room check in

also want to take weddings to a

a bustling city. The hotel industry

the city namely Chakan, Pimpri

and express check out facility to

different level – with our on-site

witnessed an improvement in oc-

and Talegaon that are located

our repeat guests. We are moving

wedding specialists, theme based

cupancy rates in 2011-12 com-

along the periphery of Pune,” said

towards unconventional ways of

menu offerings and multiple

pared to the previous years as per

Mishra. He added that hotels in

conferencing and have started of-

venue options, we personally con-

HVS report 2011-2012. This is due

the city don’t see much of tourists,

fering theme-based tea/coffee

nect with the guest to ensure they

to the city housing manufacturing

and there lies an opportunity.

breaks.”

are given a very personalized and

industries especially in the auto-

“With its rich heritage and Pune

tailor-made experience.”

mobile sector as well as the emer-

being a cultural capital of Maha-

Courtyard by Marriott Pune City Centre is working on upgrad-

Speaking about the hotel’s dis-

gence of the IT sector. Also, the

rashtra has potential to become a

ing its F&B outlets where it is in-

tribution channels, Mishra said

hospitality sector has seen a rise

tourism hub,” said Mishra. “I also

novating with its menu and dishes

that the hotel’s biggest distribu-

in the number of conventions it

think that hotels can fill in the

and outlet styling. “Innovative

tion channel is property based

has to cater to.

huge hole when it comes to having

food

which involves its sales and reser-

Mishra added that Pune has also

attractive and quality F&B options in the city.”

promotions

are

being

planned out for MoMo Café our all

vations team. “We also have the

proven to be a very competitive

day restaurant and weekly food-

corporate driven Global Distribu-

market for the hospitality indus-

by TNH DESK

F EB RUA R Y 2014|TNH (TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY)

Appointment News Vijay Kesavan Musafir.com

Rattan Keswani Lemon Tree Hotels

Kunal Chauhan The Leela Palace Bangalore

Lemon Tree Hotels has ap-

Musafir.com has appointed Vijay

The Leela Palaces, Hotels, and

pointed Rattan Keswani as

Kesavan as the new CEO for its In-

Resorts has appointed Kunal

Deputy Managing Director of the

dian operations. In this new role,

Chauhan as the General Man-

Group. Rattan joined the Lemon

Vijay will be responsible for driving

ager of The Leela Palace Banga-

Tree Group in May 2012 as

Musafir.com’s business strategy

lore. Kunal brings with him a

Chairman of Carnation Hotels, a

which is aimed at capturing the

broad array of experience in var-

company he jointly promoted

brand’s position among the top 5

ious senior positions with The

with Lemon Tree Hotels. He will continue to play

Online Travel Agency (OTA) in India. Prior to this,

Oberoi Group and The Leela Group. Prior to this

this role. A hotelier for over 31 years, Rattan

Vijay ran operations for Thomas Cook as the Senior

appointment, he was the Resident Manager at The

Keswani has worked across various hotels in

Vice-President and Head of Online Sales and Distri-

Leela Palace New Delhi. In his new role, Kunal will

India and overseas, including in Saudi Arabia,

bution. He comes with extensive experience in the

manage the award-winning Leela Palace Banga-

Colombo, Shimla, Bengaluru, New Delhi and

travel industry having worked across the sector with

lore that was voted the world’s Favourite Overseas

Mumbai.

akbartravelsonline.com and Indigo Airlines.

Business Hotel by Condé Nast Traveller, UK.

Raghu Sapra DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Bangalore Raghu Sapra has been appointed

Piiyush Kapoor The Lalit Jaipur

Rakesh Mitra The Lalit Great Eastern Kolkata

Piiyush Kapoor has been ap-

Rakesh Mitra is the new General

GM for DoubleTree Suites by Hilton

pointed as the new General Man-

Manager of the iconic property,

Bangalore, a full-service, upscale

ager at The Lalit Jaipur. His

The Lalit Great Eastern Kolkata.

hotel conveniently located on Sar-

experience in the hospitality in-

His experience in the Hospitality

japur - Outer Ring Road. Raghu is

dustry spans over 21 years. Prior

Industry spans over 17 years,

responsible for the successful

to this, he was associated with

which includes 5 cities and two

launch of the first DoubleTree Suites

hotel chains such as IHG, Wellworth

continents, India and Australia. Prior to joining

by Hilton™ hotel in India. Raghu has over 17 years

Hotels, ITC Welcome Heritage, Jaypee Hotels, Hyatt

The Lalit Great eastern Kolkata he was associated

of experience in the lodging industry. He has held

Regency and many more. A hospitality-aficionado,

with several other properties under The Lalit Suri

several positions with Marriott Hotels, Hyatt Hotels

he has cross-functional exposure in both brand ho-

Hospitality Group, such as, Intercontinental The

and Resorts and The Imperial, New Delhi, in India,

tels and independent properties in India and over-

Lalit Mumbai, Intercontinental The Grand Goa Re-

before joining Hilton Worldwide in 2011.

seas. Piiyush is a management generalist.

sort and The Lalit Temple View Khajuraho.

Aditya Mata The Khyber Himalayan Resort & Spa, Gulmarg

Biswajit Chakraborty Sofitel Mumbai BKC

Bindiya Yadav JW Marriott Mumbai

Aditya Mata has been appointed

Sofitel Luxury Hotels, Luxury

Bindiya Yadav has been appointed

VP & GM of The Khyber Himalayan

Brand of the Accor Group has ap-

new Director of Services at JW

Resort & Spa, Gulmarg. Aditya

pointed Biswajit Chakraborty as

Marriott Mumbai. Prior to joining

comes to The Khyber with over two

GM of their flagship property in

JW Marriott Mumbai, Bindiya was

decades of experience in the hos-

India, Sofitel Mumbai BKC. Respon-

working with Vivanta by Taj in

pitality industry across various for-

sible in overseeing all the activities

Bengaluru where she completed a

locations

of the hotel, Biswajit joins Sofitel with

year’s stint. Bindiya brings with

spanning the Middle East, Nepal, Africa and India. In

over 25 years of hospitality experience. Known for his

her 12 years of experience in the hospitality industry.

addition to his experience in the hotel industry, Mata

acumen in hospitality and understanding of guest and

She began her career as a housekeeping assistant at

mats,

brands

and

has also had a brief association with Manipal Hospital

human nature, coupled with his knowledge of the lux-

the Oberoi, Udaivilas and soon moved up the ladder

Bangalore for asset management and healthcare and

ury market, Biswajit Chakraborty brings several

in roles varying from assistant housekeeper to assis-

a stint with Jet Airways for their inflight services in-

path-breaking ideas and concepts to the table which

tant executive housekeeper and executive house-

cluding catering and brand standards.

will undoubtedly be revolutionary in its effect.

keeper at different hotels.

FEB RU ARY 2 01 4 | TNH (TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY)