Travel and Hospitality - January 2014 by Prem Sagar

www.tnhindia.in

Postal reg. No.: dl(Nd)-11/6151/2011-12-13

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY

rNi No.: deleNg/2010/33723 | JANUAry 2014 | `50

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.

ASI needs reforms to preserve our monuments

Page No.

Scaling a new height with pro-customer approach

Page No.

2014: Year of being cautiously optimistic!

Postal reg. No.: dl(Nd)-11/6151/2011-12-13

i S S U e 11 | v o l U M e i v | r N i N o . : d e l e N g / 2 0 1 0 / 3 3 7 2 3

Editor’s Note

Publisher & Editor Srishti Rai Director Bharat S. Rai Managing Editor Prem Kumar Manager Marketing Prem Sagar premsagar@tnhindia.com (M) +91 99106 81111

Art Director Sunny Singh Correspondents:(Mumbai) Anand Shah Correspondent (Kolkata) Swaati Chaudhury Contributing Writer Chhavi Doonga Accounts Chander Shakher Balodi Administration Executive Sarwat Jahan

For any editorial query please e-mail: info@tnhindia.com

www.tnhindia.com Printed and published by Srishti Rai on behalf of Swift Media International. is printed at Trident Printing Press, B-97/4, Naraina Industrial Area, Delhi 110028 and published at Rai House, P 23/90, Connaught Place, New Delhi 110001 Tel: 011- 47512200, 47104104. Editor: Srishti Rai

TAAI, Then n Now

These are indeed extraordinary times and therefor expect the unexpected, unprecedented! Well, expect the unexpected when it concerns the ‘mother of all associations’, i.e., TAAI indeed! For one, the TAAI Election, scheduled on the sidelines of the 61st Annual Convention that recently concluded in Bengaluru came in for severe criticism for combining the two along with ‘TAAI Awards’ and ‘India Travel Trade Expo’ (ITTE) from a majority of TAAI members. But that was clearly overlooked. And from what I hear from members who attended the Convention was that the TAAI Convention was a very forgettable affair this year. Nevertheless, a TAAI Convention beginning to be a ‘forgettable’ and ‘missable’ event is NOT unprecedented. It was the result that it threw and what ensued in the aftermath was indeed unprecedented! It was for the second time in the association’s history that the TAAI election result ended in a tie for the post of president between Iqbal Mulla (Sitting President) and Rajji Rai (Immediate Past President), The TAAI election also resulted in a tie for a post of a member of Managing Committee. Still more surprising was the way in which after scheduling a re-election for the post of President, the Presidential vote was cast three days later! A similar deadlock, highly reminiscent of the past, had transpired some 35 years ago. The two TAAI elections bear a canny resemblance to each other. TAAI Election in 1978, like 2013 TAAI election, was also combined with the TAAI Annual Convention that year. Venue (Bengaluru), time (Mid December) and a tie for the post of President were some of the other canny resemblances shared between the two elections. However, what was indeed different was the manner in which things were handled then and handled now. In 1978 Vinoo Ubhayakar was the outgoing President and Pesi Master and Inder Sharma were the two contesting for the TAAI President post. And despite the electorate being divided on the regional lines that year (The entire Western Region had supported Master whereas the Northern Region had voted for Sharma), Ubhayakar, himself from Western Region, had refused to cast the ‘Presidential vote’ in favour of either of the candidate and had requested one of them to bow out. Master withdrew. Whereas, the incumbent President choosing to cast his ‘Presidential vote’ three days after the election and declaring himself a winner, leaves much to be desired of the values that the leadership today upholds than those of yesteryears!

inside the issue JANUAry 2014 | volUMe iv | iSSUe 11

Cover Story

12 64 34 14 29 46 56 58

Mulla â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;winsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;, TAAI loses in a controversial and arbitrary manner, iqbal Mulla has been declared elected as president of TAAi for a second term.

In conversation

scaling a new height with pro-customer approach With his visionary and dynamic leadership, rajan dua, Managing director and co-founder of Udaan india has brought his company to a premier position.

Visit USA to relish Best Winter Attractions The country offers lots of winter attractions and activities to discerning travelers. Aspen in Colorado, Jackson hole in Wyoming, Park city in Utah and harriman in vermont are some of places in the US that offer varied attractions to travellers.

Despite odds, inbound tourism was positive in 2013 : Arun Anand Although foreign tourist arrivals (FTA) in 2013 remained a bit slow and there had been certain key positive developments for inbound tourism in 2013. in spite of many odds, there was positive growth.

ASI needs reforms to preserve our monuments in the recent past, Archaeological Survey of india (ASi) has come under attack from various quarters including the CAg for its poor performance with respect to preservation and conservation of monuments and antiquities in the country, underling the need to reform its role and working .

2013 was not a good year for the Indian hotel industry, unsure of 2014 The year 2013 has been one of the worst years for the indian hotel industry in the recent years, and 2014 also does not look very promising for the industry. The result of the 2014 general elections that is supposed to be held in April-May will be a decisive factor for the turnaround in the hotel industry. talked to some of the players of the indian hotel industry to know their assessment of 2013, and their expectation from the year 2014.

LEVO celebrates its bond with celebrity make-up artist Vidya Tikari

2014: Year of being cautiously optimistic! Adopting tactical business strategies, inducting social media in business, implementing innovative marketing strategies or even adapting to the ever-changing world of travel; indian travel operators are applying every possible strategy to get it right in 2014.

Aperitif

Quotes of the Month “With the trilateral highway connecting India, Myanmar and Thailand, which is in the pipeline, the North-East region is set to get a boost as the highway would act as a connecting link within and outside India for North East. The Great Asian Highway connecting SAARC and ASEAN, and branching out to connect Bhutan and Sikkim, is another proposed project, which when completed would allow both transportation of goods and movement of people freely in Asia.” Salman Khurshid, Minister for External Affairs, India The Minister was speaking on 'Opportunity North East: Emerging International Connectivity' at FICCI, New Delhi

"Over the last century, commercial aviation has transformed the world in ways unimaginable in 1914. The first flight provided a short-cut across Tampa Bay. Today the aviation industry reunites loved ones, connects cultures, expands minds, opens markets, and fosters development. Aviationprovides people around the globe with the freedom to make connections that can change their lives and the world.” Tony Tyler Director General and CEO, IATA

News of the Month ITAs grew by 5% in 2013 In the first nine months of 2013, international tourism grew by 5% according to the latest UNWTO World Tourism Barometer. The number of international tourist arrivals (ITAs) reported by destinations around the world increased by some 41 million between January and September, growing above UNWTO’s initial forecast and creating an important stimulus to the receiving economies. ITAs grew by 5% in the first nine months of the year, to reach a record 845 million worldwide, an estimated 41 million more than in the same period of 2012. Growth was driven by Europe and Asia and the Pacific, both seeing tourist numbers increase by 6%. “International tourism continues to grow above expectations, supporting economic growth in both advanced and emerging economies and bringing much needed support to job creation, GDP and the balance of payments of many destinations” said UNWTO Secretary-General, Taleb Rifai. “It is particularly encouraging to see the strong results in many European destinations, where the tourism sector is, undoubtedly, one of the engines of the economic recovery”.

JANUARY 20 1 4|

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY

Source: UNWTo World Tourism Barometer 2013

Trade News

ITQ awarded ‘Best GDS of the year’ at TAAI Travel Awards InterGlobe Technology Quotient (ITQ), a strategic business unit of InterGlobe Enterprises and the official distributor of Travelport Galileo and Travelport Worldspan, through Calleo Distribution Technologies, has been awarded the "Best GDS of the year" award for the third consecutive year.

he award was presented at 61st Annual TAAI

tomers.

work of all the team members

tional efforts and innovations

winning

of ITQ. ITQ has been re-

Mr Dwivedi further added,

Sandeep Dwivedi, Chief Com-

warded for upholding high

“The achievement of being

which was held in Bangalore

mercial Officer, InterGlobe

standards of service, support,

recognized as the ‘Best GDS

This award follows on the

recently.

prestigious

Technology Quotient said,

relationships and expertise.

of the year’ for third consecu-

heels of Travelport being

award is based on the votes of

“The achievement at TAAI

This achievement reflects and

tive year by Annual TAAI

named the best GDS in the

Awards This

and our customers.”

ceremony

Travel

Delighted

Sandeep Dwivedi, Chief Commercial Officer, InterGlobe Technology Quotient receiving the ‘Best GDS of the year’ award at the 61st Annual TAAI Travel Awards from Shri. Arvind Jadhav - Chairman & Additional Chief Secretary - Tourism, Government of Karnataka.

our team has made over the past year.”

the members of Travel Agents

Travel awards is attributed to

further reinforces our com-

Travel Awards truly show-

Asia Pacific region at the An-

Association of India (TAAI)

not only our technological su-

mitment to delivering the best

cases the confidence and sup-

nual TTG Travel awards for

and is an enormous recogni-

periority and investment in

in class technology, product

port our customers have in

the fifth consecutive time.

tion by the industry and cus-

innovation but also the hard

and service to the industry

India as well and the excep-

J ANU ARY 2 01 4 |

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY

by TNH DESK

Trade News

Kuoni-SOTC felicitated at the TAAI Travel Awards 2013 uoni- SOTC was honoured

nises our commitment to create

recognitions in the future”

with The Travel Agents

distinct holiday experiences and

added Vishal Suri, Chief Exec-

Association of India (TAAI)

further inspires us to be the

utive Officer, Tour Operating,

Travel Awards 2013 for the ‘Best

most admired travel company in

Kuoni India.

Outbound Tour Operator’ and

India” said Rajeev Wagle, Man-

The TAAI Travel Awards

‘Best Domestic Tour Operator’ at a grand ceremony at the Taj Vivanta in Bangalore. Attended by leading dignitaries from the travel and tourism industry, it was indeed

“This double honour is a significanT achievemenT and a momenT To cherish for all of us aT Kuoni- soTc; we will conTinue To sTrive for more such recogniTions in The fuTure”

a significant achievement to be conferred with this prestigious accolade.

aging Director, Kuoni India.

recognize and acknowledge ef-

“This double honour is a

forts of leading organisations in

significant achievement and a

the Indian travel, tourism and

achievement for Kuoni- SOTC to

moment to cherish for all of us

hospitality

be conferred with these presti-

at Kuoni- SOTC; we will con-

best-in-class services and prod-

gious awards. This award recog-

tinue to strive for more such

ucts for consumers.

“It is indeed a significant

J ANUA R Y 2014|

sector

providing by TNH DESK

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY

Trade News

Mulla ‘wins’, TAAI loses In a controversial and arbitrary manner, Iqbal Mulla has declared himself president of TAAI for a second term. Mr. Iqbal Mulla has announced

apply to election of office bearers of

elected himself as President of TAAI

TAAI. As it is noted at the left margin

two days after election and counting

of the Article 79, this provision is

held on December 16, 2013 at Vi-

meant for a situation when there is

vanta by Taj Yeshwantpur, Banga-

equality of votes on a motion under

lore, where the AGM of TAAI was

consideration. There is clear differ-

held. On December 16, after count-

ence between voting on a motion

ing of votes, the result of the election

and voting in an election for any post

for post of President was officially

especially when you yourself are a

declared as a tie and re-elections for

candidate. It must be the first time

the post were announced for the

in the history of any travel organiza-

27th of January in Mumbai. How-

tion where a candidate is in such

ever, in a subsequent mail sent to all

gross defiance of the election

TAAI members on December 19,

process.

2013, Harmandeep Singh Anand, the newly elected Hon. Secretary Gen-

The larger question

eral of TAAI stated that Mulla has

Such a controversial action by Mulla

been declared as President of TAAI

did not only dent TAAI’s confidence

for the term 2013-15, who exercised

among its members, but it may also

his misconstrued “right” of casting

diminish its standing at many fo-

vote as the chairman of the AGM of

rums of the travel & tourism indus-

TAAI under Article 79 of the Articles

try.

of Association of TAAI.

represents the association in FAITH.

The president of TAAI also

By exercising his claimed cast-

Now, one can imagine what credibil-

ing vote in his own favour, Mulla has

ity and confidence, a controversially

completely ignored the democracy of

elected president of TAAI will enjoy

TAAI, the largest and oldest travel

in FAITH, when he would sit along

trade association of India. For

with representatives of other associ-

decades the members of this coveted

ations at its meeting. In this sordid

organization have had the right to

saga, the biggest loser is TAAI, and

fairly elect their leader. However,

travel agent community of the coun-

when someone votes for himself or

try, which is going throw a difficult

herself in a situation as fragile as a

phase. The need of the hour is unity,

tie not only is it unscrupulous, unfair

not only within TAAI, but also

and illegitimate but it is also a mock-

among all travel trade associations

ery to the entire constitutional right

of the country. It is a time to focus

of a fair election. With all rhetoric of

on the issues of ordinary agents,

unity and one voice, the reality is

such as commission issue. But Mulla

that some people have only one con-

through his controversial action of

cern that is to gain power and posi-

deceiving many of his colleagues

tion at any cost, even at the cost of

who were present at the AGM by

unity of the organization.

first promising them reelection and

The Article 79 of the Articles of

then shamefully electing himself

Association of TAAI, which, as

president has hurt the sentiments of

Mr.Mulla claimed, entitles him for a

many active members and caused

casting vote in case of equality of

grave harm to the unity of the organ-

votes, if read in totality, does not

ization.

J ANU ARY 2 01 4 |

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY

TAAI elects new office bearers for 2013-2015 Travel Agents Association of India (TAAI) held its Annual General Meeting on 16th December 2013 at Vivanta By Taj, Yeshwantpur, Bangalor , where the elections for office bearers and new managing committee members were held. The result of election for the post of president was a tie with two candidates, incumbent president Iqbal Mulla and immediate Past President Rajji Rai securing equal numbers of votes. Other candidate in fray was Sanjay Nirula, who came in third. After the counting that took place on December 16 itself, it was officially announced that that election result for the post of president of TAAI had been a tie, so it was decided that reelection for the post of president of TAAI would be held on 27th January 2014. But on December 19, an email sent by Harmandeep Singh Anand, the newly elected Hon. Secretary General of TAAI to all its members of declared Mulla as elected, claiming that according to the Article 79 of the Articles of Association of TAAI, in case of

feating Rajji Rai. The result was also a tie for the election of one of managing committee member positions, between Mukesh Patel and Gurmeet Singh Vij. The re-elections for President's post and for one managing committee member post were scheduled to be held on January 27, 2014 in Mumbai. However, Mulla also exercised his controversial casting vote three days later in favour of Mukesh Patel, who was declared elected as member of the Managing Committee for the term 2013-15, biasedly defeating Gurmeet Singh Vij. However, Rai and many other members of TAAI have disputed the legitimacy of the reelection of Mulla as presi-

Other elected office bearers of TAAI are: Vice President Sunil Kumar R Hon. Secretary General Harmandeep Singh Anand Hon. Treasurer Marzban Antia

Newly elected Members of the Managing Committee are: Lokesh Bettaiah, Imtiaz Qureshi, Kirti Vyas, Jyoti Mayal, Jay Bhatia, Vijay Mohan Raj and Mukesh Patel. equality of votes Mulla as a chairman of AGM of TAAI is entitled to exercise a casting vote in addition to his own vote as a member of TAAI, and which he exercised in his favour of his candidacy, and got reelected as president of TAAI for the term 2013-15, de-

dent, saying chairman’s casting vote is not meant to be exercised in election of office bearers, and that Mulla can’t not exercise his casting vote as chairman of AGM in his own favour. by TNH DESK

Trade News

Despite odds, inbound tourism was positive in 2013: Arun Anand Although foreign tourist arrivals (FTA) in 2013 remained a bit slow and there had been certain key positive developments for inbound tourism in 2013. In spite of many odds, there was positive growth. Prem Kumar nternational tourist

“I

>>>

East, South East Asian coun-

said Anand, adding that if India

tries Japan and China (as

is not cheaper, but, it is equally

these countries have limited

price competitive with our com-

impact of economic slowdown)

petitors like Singapore, Thai-

and air ticket cost is less as

land,

compared to long haul destina-

Malaysia,

Srilanka,

Bhutan, Indonesia, Vietnam

tions like USA, Canada, Latin

and we offer better options for

American countries economi-

South East Asian countries like

holidayers and at an affordable

cally slow down countries of

Vietnam, Myanmar, Indonesia

price in a very affordable 3 to 4

UK, Spain, Italy and Greece

and of course Malaysia, Singa-

star hotels.

etc. Even more movements are

arrivals since the be-

pore,

said

“We have seen a trend of

expected from East European

ginning of the year

Anand. IATO could relook into

group movements of Tourists

countries like Hungary, Poland,

2013 remained a bit slow and

visa issues which proved to be

for 2013/14 with increased

Checks and Bulgaria etc (as

till November end, the interna-

the most deterrent factor for

charter operations to Goa,

earlier they had preference for

tional tourist arrivals as re-

international tourist arrivals

Buddhist

students

Egypt, Syria, Lebanon etc) But

Thailand

etc,”

groups,

ported by Ministry of Tourism,

with several meetings in Min-

group and Pilgrimage Tours.

due to war scene in these coun-

Government of India (Market

istry of Home Affairs with the

India has been actively pro-

tries, they feel to come to India.

Research Division) stands at

help of Ministry of Tourism. So

moted as MICE destination,

Also they get better value for

Medical & Wellness tourism

US dollar depreciation of rupee

destinations,

Adventure

against US dollar to reduce;

tourism with Wildlife Parks

their high cultures has lot of

etc,” said Anand. According to

similarities and with economi-

him, tourism got due recogni-

cally strength find India very

tion in the 12th Five Year Plan

affordable. In general, rupees

with increased outlay so the in-

fall is attracting inbound

dustry can expect more budg-

tourists.

Despite various negative scenes, there is positive growth and that is very motivating for the industry. It appears the year would end with 6.00 million plus tourists.

“

Arun Anand, Hony. Treasurer, IATO 60.48 lakh tourists with a

with efforts of IATO the visa is-

etary allocations in 2014 which

Speaking about his expec-

growth of 3.8% as compared to

sues could be streamlined to

in turn help enhanced global

tation from the New Year,

the FTA’s of 58.25 Lakhs,”

some extent.

However, “lot

‘Incredible India’ campaign on

Anand said, “Visa issue, one

noted Arun Anand, Honorary

needs to be done,” said Anand.

TV and Print Media, more

of the major bottlenecks,

Treasurer, IATO. “At least in

“In 2013 we found that we

budget support to Tour Opera-

stands more or less stream-

negative

need to do aggressive promo-

tors overseas for India specific

lined. We expect Visa-on-

scenes, there is positive growth

tions in our neighboring coun-

holiday brochures, joint promo-

Arrival will include more

and that is very motivating for

tries as high Aviation Fuel cost

tions, joint publicity language

traffic generating countries

the industry. It appears the

has increased ticket costs for

specific to each market and for

like France, Germany, Italy,

year will end with 6.00 million

travel by nearly 50% and our

Indian Tour Operators to reach

Spain, Switzerland and Aus-

plus tourists,” feels Anand.

traditional traffic generating

new markets under Marketing

tria etc, which will be a big

countries are not yet out of the

Development

Assistance

boost for inbound tourism.

key positive developments for

economic

said

Scheme of the MoT, Govern-

This was our main recommen-

inbound tourism in 2013. In the

Anand, adding, “But countries

ment of India, more cultural

dation to the government

spite

various

There have been certain

J ANUARY 20 1 4|

tions and packages price wise,

recession,”

year, IATO got opportunity to

like Japan, China, Malaysia,

events, festivals in India and

which got due recognition.”

explore new markets by hold-

South Korea and UAE have

overseas to showcase India.

He added, “Even government

ing series of Road Shows in col-

hardly any negative impact on

These are very positive steps

is thinking on e-visa based on

laboration with the Ministry of

holiday travels to India due to

and going to improve the

our recommendation.” Ac-

Tourism, and its sub offices

economics slow down.”

tourist arrival scene in 2014 as

cording to Anand, Collective

overseas. “In course, we could

There has been a visible

develop new business contacts

demand for India because of

in China, South Korea, Nordic

depreciation of Indian Rupee

countries, Middle East, Japan, Latin American countries and

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY

t here will be greater positive

Group Landing Permit had

perception.

some teething problem, and

Other highlight of 2013 was

the grey areas are being

against US dollar and it gives

that the response was more for

looked into and soon will be

holidayers some value addi-

short haul holidays viz Middle

given a new orientation.

Trade News

ATOAI along with GIZ conducts a seminar on ‘Tourism in Uttarakhand: Starting Afresh’ he conference brought

conference

in 2014. This programme will

taken and worked on. Soon the

followed by a series of safety

state cabinet will decide on

workshops in the state of Ut-

measures to help industry in-

tarakhand. A.K. Dwivedi, Additional Di-

Sharma also announced: “A

rector, Uttarakhand Tourism

ropeway to Kedarnath shrine

Development Board said: “90

has been sanctioned and work

per cent of Uttarakhand is per-

on constructing it will begin

fectly safe for travel.”

soon.”

S.P. Kocchar, President, Ut-

Rajeev Bhartari, CCF-Eco-

tarakhand Hotels Association

was

tourism, said, “Uttarakhand

said: “Uttarakhand tourism has

various

chaired by Rakesh Sharma,

will be promoted as a destina-

suffered a lot of loss due to the

stakeholders in the

IAS, Additional Chief Secretary,

tion for soft adventure tourism.

disaster. Thousands of people

tourism industry to sit in a dis-

Government of Uttarakhand.

We are organizing a three day

are

cussion with senior govern-

Sharma said: “The government

bird watching workshop at

should relax taxation to pro-

ment officials to plan the way

and industry will have to work

Assan Barrage on February 7-

mote growth again.”

together

“

The

gestions by the industry will be

cluding on taxation issues.”

Adventure tour Operators Association of India (ATOAI) in collaboration with GIZ (Deutsche Gesellschaft fur Internationale Zusammenarbeit) recently conducted a day-long seminar titled ‘Tourism in Uttarakhand: Starting Afresh’ at Pacific Hotel in Dheradun, Uttarakhand.

rakesh Sharma, iAS, Additional Chief Secretary, government of Uttarakhand

The government and industry will have to work hand in hand to rehabilitate the state. The current priority is reconstruction efforts, but all suggestions by the industry will be taken and worked on. Soon the state cabinet will decide on measures to help industry including on taxation issues.

affected.

Government

9. The workshop will attract

Akshay Kumar, President,

bird watchers from around the

ATOAI, said: “We are bringing

world.”

our annual convention back to

Jairaj, Additional PCCF,

Uttarakhand to support the

Forest Department reiterated

state . It will be conducted in

all the support to the tour oper-

Shivpuri , Uttarakhand from

ators for promotion of eco-

March 24th – 27th , 2014. This

tourism in Uttarakhand.

is being done to promote the

Subroto Roy, Programme Manager, GIZ stated that GIZ

state positively again.” Also present on occasion

was making all possible efforts

were Sandeep Sahni, Ajay

to promote responsible tourism

Bhargava, V S Chauhan, Sheel

in Uttarakhand and the State

Gupta, Anand Sankar , Manish Juyal, Sanhay Bahti etc.

ahead to restore Uttarakhand’s

hand in hand to rehabilitate the

status in the world adventure

state. The current priority is re-

would be represented in world

tourism map.

construction efforts, but all sug-

largest travel show- ITB Berlin

J ANUA R Y 2014|

by TNH DESK

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY

Trade News

New leadership for ITQ, InterGlobe Hotels

elport Galileo and Travelport

InterGlobe Enterprises has made key changes at leadership level of InterGlobe Technology Quotient and InterGlobe Hotels.

Worldspan in India and Sri

press Travels. He has been

Lanka.)

with InterGlobe Enterprises

Speaking on the new appointment, Rahul Bhatia, the

JB Singh President & CEO InterGlobe Hotels

pany.

Group Managing Director, In-

In his comment on the oc-

has been appointed as the

terGlobe Enterprises said, “We

casion, JB Singh said, “I am

President and CEO of Inter-

are fortunate to have leaders

delighted with my new role as

Globe Technology Quotient

of Anil’s and JB’s caliber pro-

the CEO for InterGlobe Hotels.

(ITQ) and JB Singh will take

viding leadership and direc-

We are committed to growing

over his new role as Presi-

tion, as we continue to build

this business aggressively in

dent and CEO of InterGlobe

businesses across aviation,

the next few years to meet our

Hotels.

hospitality and travel.”

ambitious targets for the ibis

Commenting on his ap-

brand in India.”

Parashar was the Group CFO

pointment

Parashar,

JB Singh holds a Manage-

for InterGlobe Enterprises and

President & CEO, ITQ said,

ment Degree from Oxford

Anil

is a member of the Executive

“This is a great opportunity

Brookes University, UK. With

Committee. In his new role,

and I am looking continuing

an experience of over 26 years

Anil will be responsible for ex-

the current momentum as well

in the aviation industry, he

nterGlobe Enterprises, a

panding and identifying key

as adding to our client portfo-

brings with him a rich knowl-

leader in aviation, hospi-

strategic opportunities for

lio at ITQ.”

edge pool, strong relation-

tality and travel-related

ITQ. He succeeds JB Singh,

Anil is credited with over

ships in the industry and

services, recently announced

who held the position of Presi-

30 years of rich work experi-

experience from various avi-

new

appoint-

dent and CEO for ITQ. (ITQ is

ence, with leadership positions

ation organizations.

ments for two of its strategic

the official distributor of Trav-

at Swiss Air, Associated Ce-

leadership

Thomas Cook India launches ‘Shop-in-Shop’ model The company inaugurates a unique travel desk at Jaslok Hospital & Research Centre, Mumbai.

homas Cook (India)

mind, Jaslok Hospital has

expert, ensuring a smooth

its

partnered with Thomas Cook

travel experience.

strategic focus on re-

to offer a range of travel serv-

reiterated

Commenting on the launch

tail expansion via its innova-

ices including air ticketing,

of the Company’s ‘Shop in

tive ‘Shop-in-Shop’ model with

hotel bookings, car services,

Shop’

outlet,

Madhavan

the inauguration of its unique

foreign exchange and travel in-

Menon, Managing Director,

travel desk at Jaslok Hospital

surance. This initiative was

Thomas Cook (India) Ltd. said,

& Research Centre, Mumbai.

taken, keeping in mind the

“We are delighted to launch

A first mover in the Indian

convenience of patients. Given

Thomas

our

Thomas

Cook

travel

Cook

deskat the prestigious Jaslok

India’s innovative hospital out-

India’s focused delivery on its

Hospital, a first of its kind in

let follows on the heels of its

Outreach Programme - to

the Indian travel industry,

success story at Kochi’s im-

bring travel right to the con-

where our in-store travel ex-

pressive LuLu mall- the Com-

sumer’s doorstep, this outlet is

perts will serve the travel and

pany’s

strategically positioned within

holiday needs of patients and

pilot

run

its

Shop-in-Shop concept. Jaslok

Hospital

NABH accredited multispe-

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY

by TNH DESK

Ltd

travel industry, Thomas Cook

J ANU ARY 2 01 4 |

since the inception of the Com-

businesses. Anil Parashar

Before joining ITQ, Anil

Anil Parashar President & CEO ITQ

ment Company and Delhi Ex-

the Jaslok Hospital premises,

their families as well as the

to better serve the needs of pa-

doctors and staff of the Hospi-

tients and relatives.

tal.”

cialty tertiary care trust hospi-

The Thomas Cook India

tal. Patients, both domestic

travel desk hence offers Jaslok

have selected our partner with

Menon

reiterated:

“We

and international, visit Jaslok

Hospital’s patients and med-

great care and Jaslok Hospi-

Hospital to seek treatments in

ical community the reassur-

tal’s sterling reputation and

various super specialty serv-

ance of a trusted brand with

cutting edge initiatives offer

ices. Keeping the travel re-

the personalized touch and

perfect synergy with Brand

quirements of patients in

care of a professional travel

Thomas Cook.”

by TNH DESK

Market Trends

Fewer Indian travellers plan to increase travel budget in 2014 TripAdvisor recently revealed its annual travel round-up for 2013 and key trends for the coming year. As per TripBarometer survey, fewer Indian travellers are planning to increase their travel budget in 2014. ccording to the Trip-

Barometer

fewer

Nikhil Ganju Country Manager, TripAdvisor

Indian

survey, trav-

2014, which is significantly

the popular belief that holidays

international holiday with a do-

are supposed to be a time to un-

mestic one, on account of the

plug, 9 out of 10 Indian trav-

staggering fall in Rupee value.

ellers (96%) admitted to being

•Foreign holidays: Foreign

attached to mobile technology

holidays saw a marginal dip but

while they were away, ranking

traveller sentiment stayed opti-

above the global average (87%).

mistic on heading overseas for

The desire to stay connected

vacation. 36% respondents be-

with family and friends at home

lieved they would end up taking

and fear of missing out are the

more international holidays in

principal reasons driving this

2013 compared to their foreign

higher than the global average

growing attachment to mobile

vacations last year but mid-

of 67%.

connection and social media

year, the sentiment saw a 7%

usage while on holiday.

dip with 29% respondents say-

ellers are planning to increase

Next to positive business

their travel budget next year,

forecast, 58% of Indian hote-

• One in three Indian trav-

ing they would end up taking

compared to 2013, despite

liers plan to increase their

ellers relied on social media to

more international holidays

more than half (57%) stating

room rate, citing increased

plan their last trip, with a ma-

this year compared to 2012.

that they are optimistic about

overheads (64%) and staying in

jority using it to see pictures

However, a healthy 62% still

the economy in 2014. While

line with competition (32%) as

and videos of where they’re

claimedto undertake interna-

59% of Indians are planning to

key reasons behind the price in-

going (72%), get recommenda-

tional travel in 2013.

increase their travel budget

crease.

tions (70%), find inspiration for

•Inflation, falling Rupee

next year (globally: 39%) – the

Optimistic outlook is driv-

what to do and see while

value and high airfares seemed

figure is down from 76% in

ing investments across the In-

they’re there (59%)and to look

to be primary factors impacting

2013.

dian’s hospitality industry with

for deals (58%).

holiday budgets, but resilient

To fund their vacation, 90%

35% of hoteliers planning to

According to the Travel

travellers choose to revise and

of Indians would be willing to

open new properties in the

Sentiment Survey done in Au-

not refrain from holiday plans.

forego luxuries, which is in line

coming year, which is twice the

gust this year, 50% of the re-

Even with more travellers esti-

with global consumers’ willing-

global average of 17%.

spondents

the

mating their holiday spend to

current performance of the In-

increase over last year, 75% of

ness to make sacrifices in

perceived

2013 – Year in Recap

dian economy as ’poor’ with

those surveyed modified their

While domestic travel re-

2013 kick-started with an opti-

66% believing that it would stay

holiday plans and not aban-

mains dominant, for those who

mistic outlook for travel plans

in the state till the end of the

doned them.

are planning holidays abroad in

for Indians with‘travel’ seeming

year or weaken further. Still,

“Overall the year saw a

2014, intraregional travel will

to have become an integral part

the intention to travel remained

healthy travel sentiment with

order to go on holiday (88%).

continue to be popular amongst

of their consumption basket - a

strong, with 41 % respondents

most travellers’ plans not im-

Indian consumers with Asia

change even a slow economic

wanting to take more holidays

pacted by the grim economic

being the ultimate destination

scenario seemed unable to de-

in 2013 as compared to 2012.

situation, at max just margin-

for most.

rail. The TripBarometerSurvey

This figure remained constant

ally altering them – tipping the

According to the study, one

highlighted positive indicators

when compared to estimates

scale in favour of domestic hol-

in two (54%) Indian consumers

for Indian travellers in 2013 de-

conveyed in the holiday fore-

idays. While manyIndians do

who have plans to travel abroad

spite high inflationary pressure

cast at the beginning of 2013.

not plan to increase their travel

in the next 12 months are plan-

and an overall economic out-

•Domestic holidays held

budget considerably in 2014 vs

ning trips within the Asia re-

look that did not predict much

steady: Plans for domestic holi-

2013 despite a significant (57%)

gion. Only 26% and 20% of them

increase in salaries this year.

days showed no detraction

number being optimistic about

intend to visit Europe and

With 77% respondents declar-

from travellers’ estimates for

the economy, 59% however plan

North America, respectively, in

ing they would increase their

2013 taken at the beginning of

to boost their travel spend in

the year ahead.

travel spend this year; Indian

the year, indicating that domes-

the coming year,” said Nikhil

On the hospitality side,

travellers seemed to be upbeat

tic vacations stayed stable. Pro-

Ganju, Country Manager-Tri-

eight out of 10 (82%) of Indian

about their holiday plans for

viding that little extra impetus

pAdvisor summing up the year

hoteliers are optimistic about

2013.

to domestic travel, 19% respon-

2014.

their business profitability in

•Also, interestingly despite

dents said they replaced their

J ANU A RY 2014|

by TNH DESK

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY

Event Watch

First Global Hospitality Conclave debuts in the NCR First Global Hospitality Conclave, an initiative by Oberoi Hotels Alumni across generations, debuts in Delhi NCR. The conclave brings together over 100 hospitality stalwarts and professionals from across the world to reminisce, share knowledge and discuss trends.

Praxis Services Pvt. Ltd., Nirbhik Goel, HR DirectorIndia, Barclays, YateendraSinh,

Lausanne

Hospitality Consulting and Ajit Pavithran, General Manager Taj Vivanta, Gurgaon to name just a few. The objective of the Conclave is to get the alumni together

CEO

annually

and

Rahul Akerkar at GHC 2013

he First Global Hos-

all passed through the corri-

pitality

Conclave

dors of Oberoi Hotels was an

2013, at The Leela

emotional moment for him.

Gurgaon on December 20,

When

2013 was a novel initiative by

Oberoi the best brand, he said

asked

what

made

the alumni of the erstwhile

all the credit for it went to the

Oberoi School of Hotel Man-

people in the company. He

agement (OSHM), now The

said that building a hotel is

Oberoi Centre for Learning &

not enough, you have to have

Development (OCLD). The

bright people, training, good

first batch graduated in 1968.

food, ambience, and quality,

Panel discussion moderated by Rajiv Kaul

The Conclave brought

but people above all and the

over 100 hospitality profes-

Oberoi School had and does

sionals

PRS

play an important part. His

Oberoi, Executive Chairman,

including

father taught him that most

EIH limited,who gathered to

important was having pas-

share their experiences and

sion, setting a target and

knowledge on the hospitality

going for it and taking calcu-

sector. This was the First

lated risks. On future trends,

Global Hospitality Conclave

he said that technology and

organized by the alumni of

environment could be game

OSHM/ OCLD. The alumni in-

changers while restaurants

clude industry veterans like

Female hospitality veterans with PRS Oberoi

Deep Kalra at GHC 2013

would move from formal fine beyond the customary batch

landscape of the country and

dining to more casual envi-

reunions by creating a com-

the world at large, as well as,

ronments.

pelling platform of knowledge

discussing priorities and ar-

The conclave had two

exchange, experiences and

riving at all potential gate-

panel discussions between

networking opportunities.

ways and drivers of growth in

the alumni and lectures by

With the world of hospital-

the coming years. It provided

guest speakers such as On-

ity imperatively moving to-

an opportunity for a serious

line Sales Guru, Deep Kalra,

ward an era of extensive

rethink on existing models.

Chairman & Group CEO, Make

collaboration and partner-

In a conversation with the

My Trip Pvt. Ltd.; Restaura-

ships, rules of the game are

alumni at the Conclave, Mr

teur Rahul Akerkar, Managing

being rewritten every day.

PRS Oberoi shared his jour-

Director & Director Cuisine

New paradigms are con-

ney in the industry and his

deGustibus Hospitality Pri-

Rajiv Kaul, President Leela

Keswani, Deputy Managing

stantly being set to accommo-

learnings from his father Rai

vate Limited; and Tourism Ex-

Hotels, Anil Madhok, Manag-

Director, Lemon Tree Hotels.

date new players with new

Bahadur Mohan Singh Oberoi.

pert Amitabh Kant, CEO &

ing Director Sarovar Hotels,

The newer generation was

approaches. The Conclave

He said meeting old col-

MD, The Delhi Mumbai Indus-

Ajay Bakaya, Executive Di-

represented

rector Sarovar Hotels, Rattan

Swarup,

J ANUARY 20 1 4|

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY

Chief

Ravish

touched upon trends and op-

leagues and the younger gen-

trial Corridor Development

Executive,

portunities in the hospitality

eration of managers who had

Corporation.

by TNH DESK

Tech News

In an interview with , Jaal Shah, Group Managing Director, RezLive spoke on the ‘significance of quality service in a B2B segment’. Prem Kumar

Jaal Shah Group Managing Director RezLive

isfied with our service and of-

form and mobile friendly ap-

ferings. However, a B2B Post

plication. “Apart of the B2B

the ‘Most Outstanding B2B

Sale round the clock call cen-

round the clock call center, Re-

Portal Award’ from Web Mar-

ter

zlive will also launch a post

keting Association, USA for

launched in early 2014. This

sale online support ticketing

our services and excellence.

will strengthen our support

system. Our agents can raise

“We look forward to 2014 in ex-

scheduled

RezLive.com. RezLive bagged

and will also extend addi-

tickets assigned for various

panding our reach within In-

tional service level once sale

topics/categories online reach-

dian market. The RezLive.com

is booked online.”

ing out to our helpdesk

transfer using hotel concierge

On how quality service

through electronic communi-

and priority check-In at the

can be ensured in a B2B seg-

cation channel,” said Shah

hotel are some of the main

ment, Shah said that with the

adding, “Since these tickets

services extended to high

help of technology it is easy to

are documented, it will allow

value fliers.” This helps our

flag and alert special needs of

us and our clients to under-

agents in retaining their cus-

our clients. This can be any-

stand the support process

tomers and also helps them to

thing from an early check-In

flow. It will also reduce

“

With the help of technology it is easy to flag and alert special needs of our clients. This can be anything from an early checkIn to partial utilized service or refund for sale which is completed.

“

‘We believe in continuous empowerment of our clients’

walk that extra mile in client

to partial utilized service or

process time, since the tickets

servicing, added Shah.

refund for sale which is com-

will be auctioned by support

Throwing light on the sig-

pleted. “We have an escala-

team

nificance of quality service in

tion matrix and POS System

topic/category it has been

Indian sales team has been

a B2B segment, said, “At Re-

which allows us to track our

raised for.”

successful in reaching out to

dedicated

the

zLive.com, we believe in con-

service tickets. The reporting

As for targeted segment

over 50 cities of India due to

xplaining what it

tinuous empowerment of our

tool also allows us to keep a

for this soon to be launched

their sales efforts and with

means to have a

clients. The value adds initi-

track of average time taken to

product, “The target segment

help of our media campaigns,

quality service in

ate helps them to upsale and

close cases which helps us in

will be our existing B2B cus-

trade show participations in

a B2B segment, Shah said,

retain their customers which

setting benchmark and targets

tomers in India and globally.

India; we look forward to reach

“We have introduced VIP Desk

results in retention of our

for our support team,” added

Since RezLive.com is a 100%

out to regional market expand-

which facilitates our agents

agents. Hence a quality serv-

Shah.

B2B distribution channel, our

ing our presence and accessi-

(for their customers) by pro-

ice plays an important part in

target segment remains within

bility. With launch of call

viding value addition to their

distribution business.”

reservation at no extra cost.

As regards the current

Things such as room upgrade, personalize check-In, airport

RezLive is also in middle of launching a dedicated sup-

the travel trade.”

center and online support sys-

port system which will help its

As regarding the year

status of services in B2B seg-

clients to communicate with

2013, Shah said, the year has

hance the support and service

ment, Shah said, “We are sat-

its support team via Web plat-

been very significant year for

we extend to our partners.”

tem we look forward to en-

Cruise News

Royal Caribbean to feature Mamma Mia! on Quantum of the seas Global Musical Sensation to Headline the Royal Theater in November 2014 Caribbean

ultimate feel-good show. The

duction of Broadway’s global

sunny, funny tale unfolds on a

hit, MAMMA MIA!, onboard

Greek Island paradise where

our latest groundbreaking

on the eve of her wedding, a

ship Quantum of the Seas, we

daughter’s quest to discover

raise the bar of unique and in-

the identity of her father

the songs of Swedish pop sen-

tan as part of the 87th Annual

novative offerings for our

brings three men from her

–

sation ABBA – when she sails

Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Pa-

guests and proudly expand

mother’s past back to the is-

the first cruise

from the New York area in No-

rade.

our Broadway at Sea offer-

land they last visited 20 years

line to feature fully licensed,

vember 2014. The first details

Speaking on the same,

ings, thus continuing to add

ago. ABBA’s greatest hits – in-

Tony Award-winning Broad-

of the new ship’s entertain-

Ratna Chadha, Chief Execu-

value for our guests onboard.”

cluding

oyal

Indian guests. With the intro-

International

“Dancing

Queen,”

way productions – recently

ment offerings were revealed

tive- TIRUN Travel Marketing,

More than 54 million peo-

“The Winner Takes It All,”

announced that guests on-

to viewers who tuned in to

India representative of Royal

ple around the world have

“Money, Money, Money” and

board Quantum of the Seas

watch the cruise line’s float,

Caribbean Cruises Ltd. says,

fallen in love with the charac-

“Take a Chance on Me” – pro-

will enjoy MAMMA MIA! – the

“A World at Sea,” set sail

“This is yet another first at-

ters, the story and the music

pel this enchanting tale of

smash hit musical based on

down the streets of Manhat-

sea innovation we bring to our

that make MAMMA MIA! The

love, laughter and friendship.

J ANU A RY 2014|

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY

Destination News

Offbeat Travel destinations make surprise entries According to Yahoo’s Year in Review India 2013, offbeat Travel destinations have made surprise entries.

credible newsmakers, his-

pattinam in Tamil Nadu and

lions of searches users did

toric milestones, box-office

Tawang

on Yahoo as well as the edi-

dramas, tumultuous finances,

Pradesh

amongst

torial selection of what

contested policies, sporting

Searched

Destinations

users read, recommended

greats, shocking revelations,

2013.

and shared on the Yahoo

nature’s fury and enduring

network.

celebrities.

Yahoo’s Year in Review is

Indians turned out to be

an annual release in India

very

announced its 2013

since 2008, reflecting trends

travel as searches on Yahoo

Arunachal Most in

Other themes which dom-

enthusiastic

about

line users in India include International sports, Scams and

controversies,

Most

and nuances that captured

revealed. Users searched for

shocking photos and videos

(http://in.news.yahoo.com/ye

the imagination of online

offbeat destinations, along

of 2013, Video themes of

ar-in-review/), a look back at

India through the year. The

with the more usual suspects

2013,

Cuisine

moments

the biggest trends of the

2013 wrap is a medley of in-

placing Tranquebar at Naga-

amongst others.

by TNH DESK

Year in Review

Jaisalmer, rajasthan Bekal, Kerala Wayanad, Kerala Coonoor, Tamil Nadu Tranquebar, Tamil Nadu Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh Coorg, Karnataka Andamans, Andaman and Nicobar island varkala, Kerala Kashmir, Jammu and Kashmir

Top 10 Cuisine Moments of 2013 1. 2.

Tarla dalal’s passing MasterChef india Season 3 recipes on yahoo 3. vikas @home 4. hybrid Food Fads and then some Cronuts 5. Food of the Future 6. Microbreweries 7. Cupcake mania 8. Fancy mock meats 9. Water, water everywhere: of the flavoured kind. 10. Fascinating Food inventions

Delhi tops the list for international travellers The big cities dominated the list of top 5 favorite Indian destinations amongst foreigners. ccording to the lat-

ternational travellers in the

Price Index report revealed

est

Price

first half of 2013. The capi-

the favorite international

Hotel

Index (HPI) report

tal city of Delhi was at the

spots for Indian travellers.

by Hotels.com, Indian met-

number 1 position followed

In the first half of 2013, the

ros dominated the list of top

by Mumbai, the city of

chart of most popular over-

5 Indian destinations for in-

dreams at number 2. Ben-

seas destinations was an

galuru and Chennai

eclectic mix of short and

enjoyed the 4th and

long haul favorites. South

5th spots respectively.

East Asian destinations

Overall, the top 10

dominated the top 10 list

Rank 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Rank 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Destination Delhi Mumbai Goa Bengaluru Chennai Hyderabad Jaipur Cochin Agra Thiruvananthapuram Destination Bangkok Singapore Dubai London New York Hong Kong Pattaya Phuket Last Vegas Kuala Lumpur

destinations list for in-

with as many as 6 destina-

ternational

tions on the chart.

tourists

was a good mix of the

Bangkok and Singapore

major cities and top

stood 1st and 2nd respec-

tourist hotspots. Goa,

tively followed by Dubai on

the popular beach and

the 3rd spot. Destinations

party

destination

from Thailand – Pattaya

ranked

number

and Phuket stood 7th and

whereas Jaipur occu-

8th respectively. Hong Kong

pied the 7th spot.

enjoyed the 6th spot while

South Indian destina-

the Malaysian capital of

tions of Hyderabad,

Kuala Lumpur came in at

Cochin

number 10.

and

Thiru-

vananthapuram also

London at number 4

featured in the top 10

was the only European des-

at the 6th, 8th and

tination on the list. On the

10th positions respec-

other hand, 2 American

tively. Agra, the land of

destinations were in the top

Taj Mahal occupied

10 with New York at num-

the 9th spot.

ber 5 and Las Vegas at

Further, the Hotel

J ANU ARY 2 01 4 |

inated the daily habits of on-

ahoo India recently

Top travel destinations in India of 2013 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10.

year in India, based on mil-

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY

number 9.

by TNH DESK

Trade News

TrawellTag Cover More redefining travel insurance Aims at increasing the travel insurance market share in India in next few years. Anand Shah

them understand the impor-

based

gagement Programme’, the

tance of cross-selling for bot-

sive medical coverage, the

company recently organised

tom-lines and profitability,

customer will also benefit

More is in the

one-day training session for

informed Dev Karvat, Manag-

from unique and exclusive

process of introducing vari-

50-60

ety of travel insurance prod-

Ahmedabad and Chennai

travel

agents

ing

Director,

TrawellTag

Cover More.

and will be organising such

Talking about the prod-

seas supplier insolvency and

programmes in more 13-14

uct-line, Dev Karvat, MD,

trip cancellation services.”

cities across India in the

TrawellTag Cover More said,

Moving ahead, the company

coming months. Designed es-

“We intend to build our brand

is also in the process of soon

We intend to build our brand and product-line in strategic manner. To start with, we will introduce travel insurance products which are specifically targeted to niche travellers, products which are currently not available in the market.

“

Dev Karvat, Managing Director, TrawellTag Cover More ucts suitable for every type of

pecially for the front-staff

and product-line in strategic

traveller.

company,

who deal directly with end

manner. To start with, we will

which recently partnered

travellers, the training pro-

introduce travel insurance

The

cover for adventure sports, car rental excess and over-

products which are specifi-

Free registration for trade

cally targeted to niche trav-

Travel Agents can register for free on TrawellTag Cover More website dedicated exclusively for its trade partners. Agents can view variety of travel insurance products and assistance services and offer the best suited ones to their clients.

ellers, products which are currently not available in the market. For example – adventure travel insurance, not offered by any travel insur-

introducing global mobile sim cards with attractive calling rates, internet plans and even few travel applications. Karvat said, “Currently, the penetration level of travel insurance in India is very low as compared to global markets. Close to 20 per cent travellers buy travel insur-

“

Our travel insurance product is one of its kind in India which gives the freedom to customise insurance cover for leisure, business or study.

“

>>>

ance provider at present. Next is, educating travel

ance off which mostly buy

with Australia based Cover

gramme is more interactive

agent about such products

due to visa requirements. It’s

More, currently offers valu-

and knowledge-based.

through training, roadshows,

time to develop the market,

seminars, etc.”

make travellers understand

able travel and medical assis-

J ANU ARY 2 01 4 |

In addition to the comprehen-

TrawellTag Cover

umbai

Under ‘Travel Agent En-

Taking a more holistic

tance services to Indians

approach, the one-day certi-

Adding further, he said,

the need and benefits of in-

travelling international on

fied training programme will

“Our travel insurance prod-

surance while travelling and

business and holidays. It has

build skills, improve quality,

uct is one of its kind in India

on the other hand make

also ventured into a rigorous

educate agents about travel

which gives the freedom to

travel agents aware of the po-

training

for

insurance and medical assis-

customise insurance cover

tential of travel insurance for

travel agents across India.

tance along with helping

for leisure, business or study.

ancillary revenue options.”

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY

programme

Trade News

Contiki partners with Thomas Cook (India) India to grow as next top outbound youth market.

youths to start travelling and see

dians emphatically stating their in-

the world as we believe that we only

tent to travel on holiday despite the

have one life, one shot, so we have

economy or Rupee volatility. Thomas

to make every moment count!” said

Cook India’s partnership with Con-

Kevin Khor, Heard of Sales and

tiki Holidays is hence a natural pro-

Marketing in Contiki Asia. “Plus,

gression,

we saw a huge growth in India this

synergy in tapping India’s rapidly

year and with Thomas Cook coming

emerging

on board as a partner, we hope to

Shibani Phadkar, Senior Vice Presi-

offering

youth

delightful

segment.”said

grow India as one of the top market

dent & Head - Leisure Travel (Out-

in Asian youth tourism.” Khor

bound)

added.

Operations & Tour Management,

“We are honoured to represent

Products,

Contracting,

Thomas Cook (India) Ltd.

Contiki Holidays in an exclusive

Contiki Holidays has inspired

eading youth Travel Com-

partnership for the Indian market.

students and young professionals,

pany,

Holidays

At Thomas Cook India, we have ob-

18 - 35 year olds to travel to the

(www.contiki.com) has an-

Contiki

served with delight the growth of not

world’s most fantastic destinations

with

just the youth but also the youthful

for over 50 years. The trips are has-

Thomas Cook (India) as the new

Indian traveller. Their hunger for

sle-free and include the perfect mix

sales agent in India, to bringing

unconventional, experiential travel

of sightseeing, culture and free time.

more like-minded youth from India

was the genesis of our path-break-

Choose from over 190 itineraries

to travel around the world.

nounced

the

partnership

ing and pioneering Youth product,

throughout Europe, Russia, Egypt,

“We are extremely excited with

‘Rock-On Holidays’. Our recently

Southeast

the partnership and by working

conducted ‘Through the Crystal

Zealand, Latin America, Canada &

with Thomas Cook (India) Ltd., we

Ball’ survey reiterates the impact of

the USA. For more information, visit

hope to continue encouraging more

India’s Gen Y, with 72% of young In-

www.contiki.com.

Asia,

Australia,

New

Expedia Receives World Travel Award for Leading OTA Website 2013 E xpedia was voted the 2013

World

Award

travel, by enhancing our reach and

for

and quality of service, overall busi-

providing consumers with flexibility

Online

ness performance, product innova-

of choosing and customising their own

Travel Agency Website 2013 at the

tion, staff relations and development,

vacation. Specific solutions like Build

World's

Travel

parameters of customer satisfaction

Leading

glittering ceremony at La Cigale Hotel

CSR and contribution to local commu-

your trip, massive discounts on book-

in Doha, Qatar. The industry's elite -

nity, commitment to sustainable poli-

ing 'flight + hotel' together and Hotel

including CEOs of leading travel com-

cies, fulfilment of long-term corporate

Sales across cities have helped the

panies, government ministers and

vision.

consumers to plan their trips in ad-

tourism board chiefs - travelled from

Being a consumer focussed brand,

around the globe to celebrate the very

Expedia's product strategy has been

(up to 70%) even in peak holiday sea-

best travel and tourism brands.

around providing seamless and holis-

son. Expedia is offering exclusive

vance while availing deep discounts

Expedia won this award under the

tic booking experience. The brand has

deals and an additional 10% for all

travel technology -category where-in

taken several industry defining steps,

bookings through the new upgraded

the nominations were adjudged on the

including

Exepdia app v3.5.

the

Democratization

J ANU A RY 2014|

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY

Government News

Development of tourism with private partners

Ministry of Tourism promotes tourism in the country in the domestic and international markets

In order to supplement the efforts of the State Governments and private sector for development of tourism infrastructure the Ministry of Tourism (MOT) provides Central Financial Assistance (CFA) for tourism projects, based on the proposals received from State Governments/UT Administrations. The number of LRG Projects and amount sanctioned during 11th Five Year Plan

Ramoji Film City, IRCTC sign MoU to promote and market each other services Tie-up between RFC and IRCTC will increase footfalls into Andhra Pradesh and promote inbound tourism .

RFC and IRCTC Tie-Up (left) Smita Rawat, Group General Manager, IRCTC and (Right) Ch. Vijayeswari, - Managing Director, Ramoji Film City, seen with the MoU

J ANUARY 20 1 4|

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY

media, participation in the Inter-

he Ministry of Tourism

national Tourism Mart/Fairs, Road Shows, printing of tourists litera-

sistance for Large Rev-

ture, and publicity collaterals and

enue Generating (LRG) Projects

also through its India Tourism of-

for development of tourism infra-

fices located in the India and

structure, in order to bring in pri-

abroad.

and

The Ministry of Finance, Gov-

institutional resources as well as

ernment of India has recently in-

techno-managerial

efficiency.

cluded Hotels with a project cost of

Some of the important items which

more than `200 crore each at any

sector,

corporate

are covered under this scheme

place in India and of any star rat-

are: Tourist trains, Cruise vessels,

ing, and Convention Centre with a

Cruise Terminals, Convention

project cost of more than `300

Centres, Golf Courses, Health and

crores each, in the Harmonized

Rejuvenation facilities and last

Master List of Infrastructure Sub-

mile connectivity to tourist desti-

Sectors. This information was

nations, etc. The number of LRG

given by the Minister of State for

Projects and amount sanctioned

Tourism (I/C) Shri K. Chiranjeevi

during 11th Five Year Plan is given

in a written reply in the Rajya

in the table.

Sabha.

Film

paign in the print and electronic

also has a scheme of As-

T vate

amoji

through the Incredible India Cam-

City

by TNH DESK

their strength and experience

IRCTC-Ramoji

Film

City

(RFC), the world’s

for the rail based require-

products across more than

largest film studio

ments and Ramoji Film City

100 outlets in the country.

and one of most preferred

will bring in their local under-

Both organizations will link

MICE destination in the coun-

standing and strengths of lo-

their websites, to enhance the

try and the IRCTC , have

gistics

and

reach of their products to

signed an MoU in an effort to

organizing customized city

their customers. Due to the

mutually promote and mar-

sightseeing. Commenting on

tie-up customers will be able

ket their services by leverag-

the

Smita

to get special tariffs for ac-

ing each other’s strengths of

Rawat, Group GM, IRCTC ,

commodation at RFC as well

presence , marketing , cus-

said “ we are very pleases to

as tour packages.

tomer footfalls and organiza-

tie-up with RFC to promote

Ch. Vijayeswari, - MD,

tional capabilities.

tourism into the state of

Ramoji Film City, said “We re-

management

development

IRCTC and Ramoji Film

Andhra Pradesh. This is tie-

alized that the inherent

City will jointly develop and

up allowed us to innovatively

strengths of both the organi-

promote PAN India, the fol-

extend not only our packaged

zation on collaboration would

lowing - Rail Tour Packages,

services to our customers but

bring around all round ad-

FTR Charter Coaches and

also market our services

vantages of convenience,

Trains and customized pack-

more widely.”

cost, customization and capa-

ages from various locations in

Further, the tie-up will

bility to the customer. In turn

the country to RFC and city

lead to jointly manning of

the tourism in the state will

Andhra

Tourism information coun-

receive a big boost”

Pradesh. IRCTC will utilize

ters as well as cross selling of

sightseeing

by TNH DESK

Government News

FEE from tourism ups by 7.26 % in Nov 2013

`9,723 crore in November

(FTAs):

2012 and `7,941 crore in No-

of November 2012 and US$

• FTAs during the Month

vember 2011.

1.566 billion in November

of November 2013 were 7.18

2011.

lakh as compared to FTAs of

• The growth rate in

Foreign Exchange Earnings (FEEs) from tourism in Rupees terms in November, 2013 increased by 7.26% to `10, 429 crore as compared to `9723 crore in November, 2012. Foreign Tourist Arrivals (FTAs) in November, 2013 was 7.18 lakh as against 7.01 lakh in November 2012 showing a growth of 1.41%.

1.776 billion during the month

FEEs in rupee terms in No-

• The growth rate in

7.01 lakh during the month of

vember 2013 over November

FEEs in US$ terms in Novem-

November 2012 and 6.70 lakh in November 2011

2012 was 7.3% as compared to

ber 2013 over November 2012

22.4% in November 2012 over

was a negative growth of 6.3%

• There has been a

November 2011.

as compared to the growth of

growth of 2.4% in November

• FEEs from tourism in rupee terms during January

13.4% in November 2012 over

2013 over November 2012 as

November 2011.

compared to a growth of 4.7%

were

• FEE from tourism in

The following are some

`94,156 crore with a growth of

terms of US$ during January

of the important highlights

12.2%, as compared to the

to November 2013 were US$

• FTAs during the period

November

2013

registered in November 2012 over November 2011.

regarding FTAs and FEEs

FEEs of `83,938 crore with a

16.247 billion with a growth of

January to November 2013

from tourism during the

growth of 22.1% during Janu-

2.8%, as compared to US$

were 60.48 lakh with a growth

month of November, 2013:

ary to November 2012 over the

15.806 billion with a growth of

of 3.8%, as compared to FTAs

corresponding period of 2011.

6.3% during January-Novem-

of 58.25 lakh with a growth of

• FEEs in US$ terms dur-

ber 2012 over the correspon-

4.5% during January to No-

FEEs from Tourism in rupee terms and US$ terms: • FEEs during the month

ing the month of November

of November 2013 were `10,

2013 were US$ 1.665 billion as

429 crore as compared to

compared to FEEs of US$

Number of tourists availing Tourist VOA ups by 26.5% A growth of 26.5 percent has been recorded in the number of tourists availing of the tourist Visa on Arrival(VoA) Scheme during the period January to November, 2013. A total number of 17,594 VoAs have been issued in this period as compared to 13,903 VoAs during the corresponding period of 2012 registering a growth of 26.5 per cent.

vember 2012 over the corre-

ding period of 2011.

sponding period of 2011. Foreign

Tourist

Arrivals

by TNH DESK

Philippines (326), Singapore (264), Indonesia (244), Finland (99), Myanmar (30), Vietnam

(15),

Cambodia

(11), Luxembourg (9) and

Kerala Tourism Website Gets All-new Responsive Design Kerala Tourism’s official

Laos(2).

webcasts, e-books and e-

(iv) The number of VoAs

website has been relaunched

newsletters. The content-rich

issued under the Scheme

with a responsive design opti-

portal has all the information

during January to November,

mised for viewing on multiple

that a traveler to Kerala would

2013 were Japan (5,704),

devices,

need.

New Zealand (3,349),

phones and tablets.

the

including

mobile

“As

expand

our

The website, www.kerala-

tourism promotional activities

Singapore

tourism.org , has been rebuilt

to more countries, we are also

(2,070), Finland (889), Viet-

with HTML 5 which offers a

taking every effort to ensure

nam (181), Myanmar (143),

far superior browsing experi-

all our services are world-

ence for users than before,

class,”

Philippines (2,615), Indonesia

(2,400),

The following are the

November, 2013, a total num-

Luxembourg (126), Cambo-

other important highlights

ber of 1,824 VoAs were is-

dia (100), and Laos (17).

of VoAs issued during No-

sued under this Scheme as

(v) During the period

said

Minister

for

and an interface that automat-

Tourism Shri A P Anil Kumar.

ically gets customised for the

“Kerala is keen to attract the

compared to 1,630 VoAs dur-

January to November 2013,

device accessing it, be it a lap-

tech-savvy global traveler and

(i) During the period Jan-

ing the month of November,

the highest number of VoAs

top, desktop, a smartphone or

we are happy to be offering

uary to November 2013, a

2012, registering a growth of

were issued at New Delhi air-

a tablet.

them the incentives to visit our

total number of 17,594 VoAs

11.9%.

vember, 2013:

have been issued in this pe-

(iii) The number of VoAs

port(9,772) followed by Mum-

The award-winning web-

bai (3,614), Chennai (2,458),

site hosts 1,500 images and

Kerala Tourism’s website

state.”

riod as compared to 13,903

issued under this scheme

Kolkata (1,206), Bangalore

3,000 videos and provides a

is currently available in 18

VoAs during the correspon-

during November 2013 for

(250), Kochi(135),

Hyder-

virtual tour of destinations be-

languages, including seven In-

ding period of 2012 register-

nationals of the eleven coun-

abad (113), and Trivan-

sides interactive tools such as

dian languages. On an aver-

ing a growth of 26.5 per cent.

tries were New Zealand

drum(46).

intelligent itinerary planner,

age, the site gets more than

online galleries, video quizzes,

250,000 visits a month.

(ii) During the month of

J ANUARY 20 1 4|

(424),

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY

Japan

(400),

the

by TNH DESK

Government News

Many ITDC Hotels running in losses

2010-11

2011-12

2012-13

Net Profit / Loss (Before Tax)

Ashok Hotel, New Delhi

-1770.23

Hotel Jaipur Ashok

-313.53

are

Hotel Jammu Ashok

-161.49

reasons for losses in ITDC

Janpath Hotel, New Delhi

-347.27

hotels.

Hotel Kalinga Ashok, Bhubaneswar

-276.80

of global economy contribut-

tion provided by the

ing to a room supply vs. de-

Minister of State for

mand

jeevi in the Rajya Sabha in a

Name of the Hotel

s per the informa-

Tourism (I/C) Dr. K. Chiran-

S.No.

‘mismatch’

India

ITDC has already initi-

Lalitha Mahal Palace Hotel, Mysore

-97.35

Tourism Development Cor-

ated the steps to boost the

Hotel Patliputra Ashok, Patna

132.28

poration Ltd. (ITDC) runs fif-

profitability by taking fol-

Samrat Hotel, New Delhi

687.42

teen hotels in the country.

lowing measures:

Hotel Bharatpur Ashok

-89.81

•Investment in Human

Hotel Lake View Ashok, Bhopal

96.25

Resource Development and

Hotel Pondicherry Ashok

2.59

brand management.

Hotel Brahmaputra Ashok, Guwahati

-59.36

Hotel Donyi Polo Ashok, Itanagar

26.13

-55.25

written

reply,

the

Some of these hotels are running in losses.

The hotel-

wise and year-wise details of these are given below:-Spurt

•Establishing Customer

in availability of overall

Relationship

Management

Hotel Ranchi Ashok

room supply position as

System (CRM) to enhance

Hotel Nilachal Ashok, Puri

compared to demand, high

the customer focus.

wage cost due to implemen-

•Aggressive marketing in

tation of sixth pay commis-

India as well as abroad

sion report, and weakening

through

participation

major Travel Marts and or-

tion/refurbishment works in

ganizing Food Festivals.

ITDC hotels.

and thus laying greater focus on B2C (Business 2 Cus-

•Carrying out renova-

•Launching e-marketing

MoT launches ‘Incredible India Promotional Calendar 2014’

can be seen at the website of

whereas the month of June

gaon, Haryana for the months

the Ministry www.incrediblein-

shows the pictures of Manda

of November and December re-

dia.org. All the pages of the cal-

Peak, Uttarakhand and Hu-

spectively.

endar

mayun’s Tomb, Delhi.

he Ministry of Tourism

tion photographs on the web-

the photos of Cave Temples &

the Ministry on revamping the

(MoT) has launched

site.

Monastries of Ellora, Maha-

website of Incredible India. He

have

been

made

available through high resolu-

tomer) market.

by TNH DESK

The Tourism Secretary

July month is depicted with

also highlighted the efforts of

the ‘Incredible India

The January month shows

rashtra and Chitrakoot Falls,

said that the print ready mate-

Promotional Calendar 2014.’

the Kalpeni Island, Lakshad-

Chattisgarh. The pictures of

rial would be made available on

The calendar containing 24

weep and Spiti Valley, Himachal

the Jagannath Temple, Tripura

the website which would facili-

photographs on double sided

Pradesh. The February month

and the Classical Dance Raas

tate the professionals in the

paper

takes the travellers to the

Leela, Manipur adorn the cal-

tourism industry to bring out

Siang

ender month August.

brochures and other publicity

Tourism

was

launched

Secretary

Parvez

River,

Arunachal

Dewan in a function in the Cap-

Pradesh and Aizawl, Mizoram.

ital. Launching the calendar,

The month of March cap-

Dewan said that every State

tures the Junagarh Fort, Gu-

Venkateswara

has been covered and suitable

jarat and the Royal Bengal

Andhra Pradesh are shown

nese,

regions/ regional balance has

Tiger and Sunderbans, West

with the month of September.

French, Korean Japanese, Por-

been maintained. All the north-

Bengal. Keeping in view the fes-

October shows the Diu Fort,

tugese, Italian, and German in

eastern States have also been

tival of Baisakhi, the month of

Daman & Diu and Dzukou Val-

addition to Hindi. Mr. Dewan

ley, Nagaland.

also highlighted the fact that in-

represented in the calendar. Mr.

April has the picture of Golden

Parvez Dewan said that the cal-

Temple and Sri Meenakshi

endar captures the rich variety

Temple, Madurai, Tamilnadu.

and wide spectrum of destinations offered by India.

Aayi

Mandapam,

Puducherry and the Tirumala Temple

material.

This

information

would be provided in 10 languages – English, Arabic, ChiRussian,

Spanish,

The calendar ends with the

formation about 15 Sound and

pictures of One-horned Rihon-

Light Shows have been pro-

The month of May depicts

ceros, kaziranga, Assam, Basil-

vided through YouTube in

the scene of the Betla National

ica of Bom Jesus, Goa and

Dolby sound which is the first of its kind in the entire world.

The calendar has also been

Park, Jharkhand and the Great

Lingdum Monastery, Sikkim &

launched digitally wherein it

Buddha, Bodh Gaya, Bihar

Signature Golf Course, Gur-

J ANUA R Y 2014|

by TNH DESK

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY

Government News

APTDC rolls out tourism bounties Andhra Pradesh Tourism is making a major drive to draw tourists into the state with the launch of luxury caravan tourism package.

Swaati Chaudhury

set up Southern Zonal Tourism

that APTDC is looking ahead

there would not be any major

Council in the city in early

to set foot in Guwahati with its

impact on the flow of tourists

mense

possibilities

2014. The state is all set to get

tourism office sometime in the

into the state. We would go for

next fiscal.

joint promotion of tourist des-

for tourists is turning over a

its premier Buddhist heritage

new leaf in its tourism sector.

theme park in Buddhavaram

APTDC is also planning to

tinations in Andhra Pradesh

Andhra Pradesh Tourism De-

in the district of Nalgonda

roll out rail tours from

and Telengana. Moreover, it is

velopment

Corporation

sometime on May 23, 2014.

Howrah to Tirupati for pil-

not the state but the charm of

(APTDC) is making a major

Stupas and viharas would be

grims

Year.

the destination that lures

drive to draw tourists into the

recreated in the theme park

Tourists can avail of APTDC

tourists. Once bifurcation oc-

state with the launch of luxury

and Amravati will host Bud-

package tours with around 30

curs, there might be minor

per cent discount on accom-

aberrations in the flow of

modation.

tourists that will not sustain

caravan tourism package that would take off from Hyderabad

Chandana Khan, Special Chief Secretary, APTDC said, “Our tourism department has come up with a novel brand and the state is endowed with a long coastline, fascinating beaches, lakes and fabled historic quarters. There is something on offer for all groups of travellers. We have our fixed package tours to all popular tourist getaways. There are a number of spectacular destinations like Warangal, Araku Valley and Adilabad that are

J ANUARY 20 1 4|

Andhra Pradesh happens,

ndhra Pradesh- the

across the state.

V Madhu Sudan Executive Director (Projects), APTDC

into the state.” He also avered

land that offers im-

to all tourist destinations

Chandana Khan Special Chief Secretary, APTDC

crore has been sanctioned to

Snapshot APTDC ‘s tourism bounties: •Luxury caravan tourism to operate from Hyderabad. •Rail tours from Howrah to Tirupati in early 2014. •Package tours with 30 per cent slash on accommodation. •Started social media campaign. •New Buddhist heritage destination in Buddhavaram.

the

New

Madhu Sudan

added, “Once bifurcation of

for long.”

Employment Generation by Tourism Industry

dha Jayanti in May, 2014.”

In a written reply in the

approach for promoting

Lok Sabha during its re-

Hotel Projects, Rationali-

cent session, Dr. K. Chiran-

zation of Taxes etc., for the

jeevi, Minister of State for

growth of tourism sector in

Tourism (I/C) informed the

the country.

house that as per the 2nd

According to the infor-

Tourism Satellite Account

mation provided by the

(TSA) of India – 2009-10

Minster to the house, “To

and subsequent estima-

encourage the growth of

tion, the contribution of

hotels, the following incen-

tourism in total employ-

tives, inter- alia, have been

included in the boundary of Te-

tourism has some grand plans

ment of the Country during

announced:

lengana and have not been pro-

up the sleeve to woo tourists

2009-10, 2010-11 and 2011-

(i)Five Year Tax Holi-

moted till today. The resorts

not only from the eastern re-

12 were 10.2%, 10.8% and

day for 2, 3 & 4 star cate-

are being set up in Adilabad.

gion of India but across the

11.5%, respectively. This

gory new hotels located in

We have identified around 20

globe. Madhu Sudan said, “We

information is not avail-

all

new tourist destinations in the

have embarked upon social

able for 2012-13 and 2013-

‘World Heritage Sites;’ (Ex-

14.

cept Mumbai and Delhi)

The

department

UNESCO

state.” Khan also informed that

media campaign in the cur-

though Lord Buddha had never

rent year and we have begun

The minister informed

set foot into the land but Amra-

mass mailing to target around

the house that MoT has ad-

tween

vati forms a prominent Bud-

20 lakh tourists across the

vised the State Govern-

31.03.2013.

dhist heritage destination.

world. Hoardings have been

ments/UT Administrations

declared

which start operating be-

(ii)An

01.04.2008

investment

put up across major domestic

to follow tourism friendly

linked deduction under

be the permanent secretariat

airports

country.

policies like allotting land

Section 35 AD of the In-

of World Travel and Tourism

Kolkata forms our largest

sites on revenue sharing

come Tax Act extended for

The state also happens to

the

Council (WTTC) in South India.

tourist

con-

basis, granting extra Floor

new hotels of 2-Star Cate-

V Madhu Sudan, Executive Di-

tributes the most number of

Space Index (FSI)/Floor

gory and above anywhere

rector (Projects), APTDC in-

footfalls into the state. Next to

Area Ratio (FAR) for Ho-

in India to facilitate the

formed, “Hyderabad would

Bengal are Maharashtra and

tels, Creation of Land

growth of tourist accom-

form the headquarter of WTTC

Gujarat that accounts for the

Banks, and Single Window

modation in the country.

in South India and nearly Rs 50

most high-spending tourists

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY

market

that

Government News

ASI needs reforms to preserve our monuments In the recent past, Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has come under attack from various quarters including the CAG for its poor performance with respect to preservation and conservation of monuments and antiquities in the country, underling the need to reform its role and working .

weaknesses, encroachment of

There was no mechanism to as-

ports have not been published.

monuments and unauthorised

sess the genuineness of arti-

In several cases, the selected

constructions

wide-

facts. Poor documentation of

archaeologists leading these

spread. Further, in the absence

the acquired artifacts and the

excavations are no longer with

of comprehensive planning and

failure to introduce the digital

the ASI. In some cases, the ar-

organisational weakness, there

technology for documentation

were

chaeologists had died. As a re-

was no coordination among the

coupled with the absence of

sult, excavated antiquities have

three major wings of ASI, re-

physical verification made the

not been accounted for and in

sponsible for structural, chem-

artifacts vulnerable to loss. The

some cases even the excavation

ical

security system at the muse-

sites had gone untraceable.

conservation.

and

environmental

ums provided a grim picture in

he Comptroller and

CAG also noted that the plan-

Success of conservation

Auditor General (CAG)

ning function was largely neg-

works was left largely to indi-

recently submitted its

lected.

vidual initiatives and an overall

In a recent national confer-

>>>

Mathura, the excavation re-

Exploration

and

the absence of effective surveillance systems at the sites.

report of Performance Audit of

preservation were crucial func-

departmental perspective was

ence of tourism ministers held

Preservation and Conservation

tions of the ASI; however, a

completely missing. Regarding

in New Delhi, which was

of Monuments and Antiquities

comprehensive policy for these

the financial management of

presided over by the Union

in the Parliament. The perform-

areas had not been formulated.

ASI, the CAG noted that the

Minister of State for Tourism

ance audit was undertaken by

As a result, conservations ef-

funds allocated to ASI for its

(Independent Charge), Dr. K

the CAG on the occasion of

forts were grossly inadequate.

mandated

were

Chiranjeevi, Tourism ministers

ASI’s 150th anniversary. As per

CAG noted that the ASI still de-

grossly inadequate; however,

of Maharashtra and Andhra

the report of CAG, several as-

pended on a manual published

there was little initiative on its

Pradesh also criticized the

pects

objectives,

in 1923 for most of its field ac-

part or the Ministry of Culture

functioning of the ASI.

processes and results were re-

tivities. This document was not

to enhance the budget alloca-

Speaking at the Tourism

viewed in the audit. “The most

updated. Most of ASI’s impor-

tions or explore revenue oppor-

Ministers’ Conference, Chha-

tunities.

gan Bhujbal, Minister for

ASI’s

The funds given by Government of Maharashtra to ASI for the protection and preservation of these monuments have either remained unused or not used appropriately, thereby adversely affecting the quality of work at monuments.

“

Chhagan Bhujbal, Minister for tourism, Maharashtra

activities

The

manpower

management was marked by

tourism,

critical shortages leading to

Vatti Vasant Kumar, Minister

negligible supervision of works

for Tourism and Culture, Ar-

and inadequate security.

Maharashtra

and

chaeology, Museum, Archives

The ASI was unable to im-

and Youth Services and Sports,

plement the provisions of the

NCC, Andhra Pradesh criti-

Antiquities and Art Treasure

cized ASI for its inability to

significant failure of ASI related

tant publications, for instance,

Act effectively and the inci-

maintain and restore monu-

to its core function of field ar-

‘Indian Archaeology a Review’

dence of an illegal export of an-

ments in their respective states.

chaeology that included exca-

were pending for years.

tiquities was rampant. The

“I would like to mention that my

vation, survey and publication

To ensure effective protec-

proposed legislation amend-

state has got almost 80 percent

reports.

tion of monuments and sites it

ments to this Act were pending

of ancient and Buddhist Caves

Presently, ASI’s expenditure on

was imperative to update poli-

for years.

as well as more than 300 his-

excavation

excavation is less than one per

cies, publish inventories and

The CAG observed signifi-

toric forts. Majority of these

cent of its total budget,” said

fully document monument de-

cant shortcomings in the func-

monuments are under the juris-

the report. The CAG has noted

tails. However, these activities

tioning of the museums. The

dictions of ASI for their mainte-

that ASI has no policy govern-

had not been completed by the

museums did not have any

nance,

ing the selection of excavation

concerned entities. The Na-

benchmarks or standards for

conservation,” said Bhujbal but

preservation

and

sites, timeframes for the com-

tional Mission of monuments

acquisition, conservation or

he lamented that due to short-

pletion of excavations and the

and antiquities had also failed

documentation of the art ob-

age of manpower and funds

publication of its findings. As a

to fulfill its purposes in a time-

jects possessed by them. The

with ASI monuments in Maha-

result, even decades after the

bound manner. This mission

mechanism for evaluation of

rashtra have not been con-

commencement of major exca-

lacked direction, vision and ap-

acquired objects to verify their

served

vations, viz. Dholavira, Sang-

propriate strategy.

genuineness was absent in all

appropriately and are thereby

the museums audited by us.

getting deteriorated day

hol,

Rakhigarhi,

Sravasti,

In the context of these

J ANUA R Y 2014|

restored by

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY

Government News

day. “Recently, I learnt that a

the efforts of the State Ministry

dles and delays in implement-

newly constructed wall at Fort

of Tourism to provide tourism

ing the projects. Saying that

Vijaydurg in the Sindhudurg

amenities should be seen by

many states would be facing

District of the Konkan Region of

ASI as critical for the growth

similar issues in their respec-

Gujarat Tourism announces dates of 'Gujarat Travel Mart 2014'

the state washed way due to the

and conservation of the monu-

tive states, Bhujbal urged the

monsoon onslaught,” said Bhu-

ments rather than as intrusion

Union Minister for Tourism to

jbal, lamenting the plights of

into their territory. The Tourism

intervene in this matter.

monuments under the protec-

Minister of AP requested Dr.

He informed that last year

tion of ASI. He added, “These

Chiranjeevi to immediately

(2012), in order to strengthen

Gujarat Tourism has an-

monuments are the wealth of

meet his counterpart in the Cul-

ASI to maintain and preserve

nounced the fourth and its

The event is supported

ture Ministry to sort out this

these monuments in systematic

biggest edition of 'Gujarat

by major travel – trade and

burning issue. He said that he

manner, a Government of Ma-

Travel Mart', India’s leading

hospitality association in

was sure tourism ministers of

harashtra delegation under

B2B travel event at Mahatma

India such as ‘Association of

other states would also agree

Chairmanship of the Chief Min-

Mandir Convention & Exhibi-

Domestic Tour Operators As-

>>>

Event thought ASI is unable to provide the necessary amenities to the tourists as per the growing requirements; they are also unable to grant necessary permissions to provide the same by the ministry of tourism.

“

Vatti Vasant Kumar, Vatti Vasant Kumar, Minister for Tourism and Culture, Archaeology and Museum, Archives, Andhra Pradesh our country and it is the re-

with on this issue. Citing the ex-

ister of Maharashtra Prithviraj

India etc.

tion Centre, Gandhi Nagar in

sociation of India (ADTOI),

from the 27 – 29 March 2014.

Adventure Tour Operators

The state of Gujarat over

Association of India (ATOAI)

the years has contributed to-

and Indian Association of

Highlights of GTM 2014 •285+ Buyers from over 30 countries expected to visit GTM. •1000+ travel agents expected to visit the event •200 Exhibitors from India from over 20 diverse tourism segments

sponsibility of everyone present

ample of ASI, which manages

Chavan met former Minister of

here to protect and preserve

and controls several of our

Culture, Government of India

these monuments for our future

tourism attractions, Vasant

Kumari Sailajaji and suggested

wards being a large part of

Tour Operators. The event

generations.”

Kumar said that there is lack of

her to have Memorandum of

the India’s ever growing

shall be managed by 'Sphere

Joining the issue at the con-

synergy between Ministries of

Understanding (MoU) between

tourism arrival figures, both

Travelmedia & Exhibitions.

ference, where a large number

Tourism and other miniseries,

ASI And Government of Maha-

to within India destinations

of state Tourism Ministers and

even as several of the tourist at-

rashtra, wherein it was pro-

and overseas. The Inaugural

Exclusive Gujarat Pavilion:

senior officials of Union Min-

tractions of the country are

posed to carry out these works

edition of ‘Gujarat Travel

Gujarat Incoming

istry of Tourism and that of

managed by and controlled by

by Government of Maharashtra

Mart’, is set on a B2B plat-

Gujarat has been one of

tourism departments of states

other department and min-

under able guidance of ASI or

form with over 285 regis-

India’s biggest tourist attrac-

were present, the tourism min-

istries.

their representatives.

tered Buyers from over 30

tions with its wide arena of

ister of Andhra Pradesh said

Bhujbal blamed ASI for not

Vasant Kumar said that

countries exploring business

attractions. The exclusive

that it has become very difficult

fully and appropriately utilizing

India has so many museums,

opportunities for discerning

pavilion of Gujarat shall

to implement the tourism devel-

fund given to it by the Govern-

but they are seen and projected

travel and tourism products,

showcase the different facets

opment initiatives at the monu-

ment of Maharashtra. He con-

as mere storage places of an-

will make the event one of

of Gujarat such as festivals of

ments of the state because of

tended that the funds given by

cient artifacts. According to

the most sought after travel

Gujarat, its beaches, the land

the stringent conditions pre-

Government of Maharashtra to

him Museums can be turned

events in the country.

of the Mahatma: Mahatma

vailing in granting permissions

ASI for the protection and

into active places of tourism at-

The Hosted buyers will

Gandhi oriented tours, Her-

by ASI. “Even though ASI is un-

preservation of these monu-

tractions as have been done

be invited from the following

itage Hotels, Buddhist Trails

able to provide the necessary

ments have either remained un-

elsewhere in the world. He fur-

countries:

in Gujarat, wildlife Resorts

amenities to the tourists as per

used or not used appropriately

ther requested the Union Min-

Kingdom of Bahrain, Aus-

and National Parks, Medical

the growing requirements; they

and thereby adversely affecting

ister for Tourism to establish

tralia,

Tourism, Destination Man-

are also unable to grant neces-

the quality of work at monu-

an exclusive intuition to train

Greece,

sary permissions to provide the

ments. He alleged that field of-

curators and event mangers

same by the ministry of tourism

fices of the ASI are not being

specializing in making all mu-

South Africa, Sri Lanka,

Religious Tourism, Handi-

of the stats,” said Vasant

delegated sufficient powers

seums of the country into activ-

UAE, UK, USA, South Africa,

crafts, Cultural Vistas, etc

Kumar. He emphasized that

which are causing great hur-

ity centres.

J ANU ARY 2 01 4 |

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY

by TNH DESK

Netherlands,

Canada,

France,

Israel,

Japan,

agement Companies, Travel

Lithuania, Norway, Poland,

Agents and Tour Operators,

Government News

Promotion of North-Eastern Region as Tourism Destinations

ferred destination in impor-

media; participation in travel

tant tourist markets and thus

fairs and exhibitions; organis-

improve India’s share of the

ing road shows, ‘Know India’

global tourism.

seminars & workshops; organ-

he North Eastern Re-

Buddhist Monasteries, etc. It,

The details of non-plan

izing and supporting Indian

gion (NER) of India,

therefore, has great potential

expenditure of the overseas

food and cultural festivals;

including the State of

for both domestic and interna-

offices, consisting of foreign

publication of brochures; of-

tional tourism.

travel expenditure, office ex-

fering joint advertising and

penses and rent, rate &

brochure support; and inviting

Sikkim, is a reservoir of rich natural resources & biodiver-

The Ministry of Tourism

sity and an amalgamation of

has 14 offices overseas. These

taxes, during each of the

media personalities, tour op-

different tribes and cultures. It

offices are located at Amster-

last three years and the cur-

erators and opinion makers to

is still a largely unexplored re-

dam, Beijing, Dubai, Frank-

rent year, are the below

visit the country under the

gion having many tourism at-

furt, Johannesburg, London,

table.

Hospitality Programme of the

tractions in the form of wild

Los Angeles, Milan, New York,

life sanctuaries, adventure

Paris,

tourism assets, diverse cul-

Tokyo and Toronto. The pri-

tural heritage, multifaceted

mary function of these offices

advertising in the local print,

ranjeevi in a written reply in

fairs & festivals, world famous

is to position India as a pre-

electronic, online and outdoor

the Lok Sabha.

Singapore,

Sydney,

The overseas offices un-

Ministry. This information was

dertake a series of promo-

given by the Minister of State

tional

for Tourism (I/C) Dr. K. Chi-

activities

including

(Amount in ` lakh)

S. No

Name of Office

Year 2010-11

Year 2011-12

Year 2012-13

Year 2013-14

Amsterdam(Netherlands)

112.60

123.41

118.99

94.29

Beijing(China)

131.92

127.89

131.04

94.07

Dubai (United Arab Emirates)

74.64

94.26

101.48

60.64

Frankfurt (Germany)

190.87

212.45

212.34

93.83

Johannesburg(South Africa)

64.52

71.95

67.40

50.30

London (United Kingdom)

202.57

196.82

275.14

168.87

Los Angeles (United States)

64.50

91.83

99.39

63.61

Milan (Italy)

54.37

85.60

84.70

63.00

New York (United States)

215.83

283.60

258.34

222.31

Paris (France)

217.52

200.57

215.65

45.40

Singapore

114.17

118.48

103.55

75.43

Sydney(Australia)

156.78

173.79

203.47

139.89

Tokyo (Japan)

190.55

161.47

163.30

100.07

Toronto (Canada)

99.42

97.08

80.07

44.73

*upto 30.11.2013

J ANUA R Y 2014|

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY

Government News

at the cost of `10 crore. Fouji

Haryana Tourism seeks early sanctions from MoT for its proposals Haryana Tourism has requested Union Ministry of Tourism to give early sanctions to its entire proposal pending before Ministry of Tourism, Government of India. Prem Kumar

Tourism Project, the state gov-

also informed that the state

ernment has developed Pani-

government has planned to

pat-Kurukshetra-Pinjore

start multi-media laser show

mega tourist circuit. Haryana

at Tilyar Lake to provide en-

Tourism Development Corpo-

tertainment to tourists, which

ration (HTDC) has identified

would help the site to attract

and developed 28 farm houses

tourist in large number.

near Delhi and the NCR area

Government of India for vari-

In spite of having less num-

to promote farm tourism in

am kishan Fouji ,

ous tourism projects, whereas

ber of natural sites, ancient

these

Chief Parliamentary

before this period the amount

monuments and other attrac-

amenities have been provided

places.

World-class

Secretary, Tourism,

was just `32 crore in 20 years.

tive tourist site in the state,

on these spots which are at-

Government of Haryana said

He expressed hope that Gov-

Haryana has made a special

tracting foreign tourists in

that there are many tourism

ernment of Haryana would

place on map of tourism. This

large number. The state has

development projects of the

continue to receive similar

is a lesson for states which

about 75 historical monu-

state government pending be-

support from MoT.

have been bestowed with nat-

ments, which include Mugal

fore MoT. He requested Union

“Government of Haryana

ural beauty and are rich in cul-

Garden and Bhima Devi Tem-

Minister for Tourism Dr. K Chi-

has taken many significant ini-

tural and historical heritage,

ple at Pinjore, Buddhist monu-

ranjeevi to approve all projects

tiatives to promote tourism,

but still lag in tourism develop-

ment

Chaneti,

several

at the earliest so that projects

which have been appreciated

ment. The state tourism has

relics/remains of the Mahab-

can be executed soon.

not only in the country but also

made remarkable achievement

harat period, pillars of the

at international level,” said

in Highway Tourism by provid-

Ashoka

Fouji.

ing

Ibrahim Lodi, battleground of

Fouji made this demand at the recent tourism ministers’

“In accordance with

Government of Haryana received `148 crore over the last eight years from Government of India for various tourism projects, whereas before this period the amount was just `32 crore in the last 20 years.

“

world-class

amenities

along the Highways. Under

period,

tomb

Panipat etc.

the phase-I of the Highway

Ram kishan Fouji, Chief Parliamentary Secretary, Tourism, Government of Haryana

Dakshineshwar shrine to receive makeover

conference held in New Delhi.

tourism policy of the state, the

points in India is all set to receive a big makeover from the

Addressing the conference,

government in partnership

West Bengal government. Aimed to make the pilgrim desti-

which was presided over Dr.

with

has

nation tourist-friendly, the revamp project will include traffic

Chiranjeevi , Fouji also re-

planned many tourism proj-

and transportation plan for the shrine complex pegged at

quested Unions Toirism Min-

ects under Public Private Part-

Rs 1 crore and will take off sometime in March, 2014.

ister

to provide more and

nership (PPP) mode. Projects

The revered shrine is the seat of socio-religious signifi-

more funds to Government of

being executed under PPP

cance and is waiting to receive world-class infrastructure.

Haryana to promote tourism in

mode include Institute of Hotel

The three major projects lined up for Dakshineshwar are

the state.

Management,

upgrading traffic, erecting 11 bus-shelters to augment the

Dakshineshwar in Kolkata, one of the greatest pilgrim

private

sector

amusement

Appreciating the contribu-

parks, heritage hotels, inte-

conveyance of pilgrims and setting up a jetty in order to con-

tion of MoT in the promotion of

grated tourism spots and new

nect the destination on the river cruise circuit of Bengal. The

tourism in Haryana, Fouji said

tourist circuits,” added Fouji.

makeover would include building gateway for the shrine,

that Government of India has

He informed that in order to

widening of roads and re-constructing the drainage system.

played key role in the promo-

attract youth towards tourism

Once the projects are over, pilgrims can breathe a sigh of re-

and hospitality industry and to

lief commuting to the shrine. Work for the project would

tourism in the state. He in-

provide them employment in

begin in the New Year and would be over within a couple of

formed that Government of

this sector, the state govern-

months.

tion

J ANU ARY 2 01 4 |

and

development

Haryana received `148 crore

ment has set up Institute of

over the last eight years from

Hotel Management in Rohtak

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY

Government News

Assam to promote sustainable tourism with community involvement Assam Tourism will promote responsible and sustainable tourism in the state with its focus on conservation of nature and wildlife. n order to preserve its

language and overall interest

natural

of that community.

wealth

and

wildlife and to sustain

“With growing awareness

long-term gains from tourism,

about tourism potential in the

Assam tourism will promote

state, particularly about our

sustainable and responsible

wildlife, we are conscious that

tourism with active participa-

unregulated and mass tourism

tion of local communities. Hi-

poses threat to our nature and

park/sanctuary of the state,

thority would comprise district

mangshu S. Das, Principal

culture, so we are taking steps

and accordingly regulate the

magistrate, forest officer and

flow of tourists to these

representative

Fact file

places. Das said that this is

tourism department. The au-

Assam to set regulatory bodies for national parks to regulate growth around these spots. The forest department to determine carrying capacity of each national park of the state. Flow of tourists to national parks will be as per carrying capacity of parks.

necessary to ensure the sanc-

thority will give permission for

tity and sustainability of these

construction. The forest de-

places and their flora and

partment has issued guide-

fauna.

lines as to what activities will

from

the

Das informed that there

be allowed and what not within

has been some haphazard de-

three to five km strips around

velopment in areas surround-

wildlife and national parks for

ing national parks to due to

their preservation. The pro-

unplanned and unregulated

posed authority will enforce

and

to strike balance between the

growth. “We have noticed that

the guidelines of the forest de-

Tourism) Assam informed that

sustainability objectives such

at the revenue lands outside

partment. Elaborating on the

the state government has em-

as conservation of nature,

national parks, many guests

mandate of the proposed au-

powered development councils

wildlife and traditional culture

houses and hotels have come

thority, Das said,

Secretary

(Finance

“Anybody

of tribal/ethnic communities to

as promotion of tourism,” said

up which do not conform to

who wants to set up hotels,

regulate tourism activities in

Das, adding that role of local

any safety rules and regula-

guest houses, restaurants or

their respective areas, partic-

community is very important

tions. As these areas are not

any physical structure within

ularly in and around national

in the promotion of sustain-

urban areas, there is no urban

these strips will have to apply

parks so that promotion of

able in the state. He said that

development authority to reg-

to for permission to the pro-

tourism does not spoil forests

because natural and cultural

ulate construction and enforce

posed regulatory authority,

and wildlife.

diversity are USPs of the state,

safety rules. Even from safety

which will function just like

“It is necessary that we pre-

point of view there is no regu-

urban development authority.

The government of Assam has constituted 26 develop-

serve the ethical, anthropolog-

latory authority. Those who

The authority will give such

ment Councils for ethnic com-

ical and cultural identities of

want to construct any building

permission after verifying that

munities of the state for the

the local communities to sus-

or physical structure, they just

development plan is consistent

social, cultural and economic

tain gains from tourism for

need permission from local

with goals of preservation of

development of these commu-

longer time.”

Panchayats, which they get

national parks. If they think

nities in a sustainable way.

To preserve the nature

easily through manipulation,”

that such construction plan

said Das. He informed that the

can be harmful, it will refuse

parks/wildlife sanctuaries the

state government will soon fi-

permission.” Das said that de-

state government has asked

nalize a policy according to

velopment activities in these

the forest departments of the

which a regularity authority

areas around national parks

Each council has been named

and

after one of the major ethnic groups or tribes. Each council is mandated to work for

wildlife

national

preservation of the respective

state to determine the carry-

for each national park would

should be planned, sustainable

culture, traditional way of life,

ing capacity of each national

be set up. The regulatory au-

and eco-friendly.

J ANUA R Y 2014|

by TNH DESK

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY

Destination Outbound

Visit USA to relish Best Winter Attractions The country offers lots of winter attractions and activities to discerning travellers. Aspen in Colorado, Jackson Hole in Wyoming, Park city in Utah and Harriman in Vermont are some of places in the US that offer varied attractions to travellers. Aspen, Colorado

and the staff is gracious to a fault. Its unpretentious Mon-

Aspen is the undisputed star in America’s repertoire of

tagna restaurant offers inspiring scenes of Ajax and

best places to ski, with no fewer than four world class

boasts a menu good enough to compete with the view.

rides into the quiet woods.

Getting there: Flight from Delhi to Chicago, Then Chicago to Denver, and then Denver to Aspen

mountains. It’s a fashionable walking town, with excellent

In town, the Hotel Jerome is a former silver mining

restaurants for every culinary craving, gorgeous art gal-

hotel that opened in 1889 (it was built the same year as

leries every few steps and an unbeatable après-ski bar

the town’s still-functioning Wheeler Opera House). The

Many ski resorts crow about their steep slopes and deep

scene to boot. Aspen’s four mountains offer nearly 5,000

Victorian decor is impeccably intact, modernised with

powdery snow, but the phrase ‘steep and deep’ must have

Jackson Hole, Wyoming

skiable acres, and all are linked by free shuttle service and

Jacuzzis and a heated outdoor pool, and the spacious

been coined at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort in the

transferrable lift tickets. Snowmass is the big one, with

rooms with Eastlake antiques are the epitome of ski-town

Grand Tetons. The snow here is abundant and fine, and

3,128 acres of wide-open groomed runs perfect for fami-

sophistication. The hotel’s historic J-Bar is still among the

the trails, with a stunning total vertical drop of 4,139 feet

lies.

best places in town for people watching and nightlife. Aspen also has some of the highest-rated ski lodges

You won’t go hungry in town, with options that range

down the east face of 10,450-foot Rendezvous Mountain, are long and varied.

in the country. Start with the Little Nell, the only ski-in/ski-

from jammin’ bars to world-class cuisine. But head out of

Ski or ride almost straight downhill for 3,000 feet on

out lodge on Aspen Mountain and a snowball’s throw from

the fray to Krabloonik, a tiny log cabin on Snowmass

the Hobacks run, but don’t forget to take in the genuinely

the Silver Queen gondola, the longest single-stage gondola

named after the owner’s lead sled dog (it’s Eskimo for ‘Big

breathtaking views from the top first. And blue-run skiers

in the world. The elegant rooms in the chalet-style hotel

Eyebrows’). Repeat visitors come for the succulent wild

needn’t shy away—Jackson Hole also has outstanding in-

come complete with chocolates and bedtime storybooks,

game—maybe caribou chops or elk fillets—and dog sled

termediate skiing, such as the chivalrously named Apres

J ANU ARY 2 01 4 |

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY

Destination Outbound

ski epicenter. Only four miles north of downtown Park City, the Canyons Resort is the largest ski resort in Utah, encompassing 3,500 skiable acres on no less than eight mountain peaks. It’s a family-friendly place with more than 140 runs to keep beginners and experts coming back. Lookout Cabin sits high on top of Lookout Peak, perfect for an on-slope bite and breather, and glorious views of the Wasatch Mountains. Park City Mountain Resort is where the U.S. Olympic ski and snowboard teams train. Lesser talents can choose from 100 trails, 14 lifts, nine bowls and seven peaks, not to mention the biggest ‘superpipe’ in North America, with 22-foot walls for launching aerial manoeuvres. Or you can sit fireside and take it all in from the comfort of the Hotel Park City, a wonderful old Rockies lodge upgraded with a Ralph Lauren aesthetic and boasting 54 luxury suites, a full-service spa and views of the slopes from the massive windows of the Sleigh Restaurant. The destination of choice for those seeking the country’s top-drawer ski experience is Deer Valley, unquestionably Utah’s most elegant resort since its opening a quarter of a century ago. Its four summits—the highest is 9,570 feet—were home to the slalom, mogul and aerial events of the 2002 Olympic Games. Deer Valley doesn’t allow snowboarders (the other two resorts do) and provides impeccably groomed cruising runs, with two of skidom’s best hotels nearby. The chic but unpretentious Norwegianthemed Stein Eriksen Lodge is known for a host of pampering amenities that include a spa, dozens of cosy fireplaces and the award-winning Glitretind restaurant. Friendly rival is the château-style Goldener Hirsch Inn, where European-style service and Austrian antiques might lead guests to believe they are at the inn’s sister property in Salzburg, Austria.

Getting there: Flight from Delhi to Chicago, then Chicago to Salt Lake City, Utah Vous Mountain run Just over the divide from Jackson Hole, Grand

base to explore the area’s riches. Mosey on back to the town of Jackson or hang around

Harriman, Vermont - The Catamount Trail

Targhee Ski Resort extends across two mountains (one

Teton Village at the base of the resort and swing by the

At 300 miles long, the Catamount Trail is the longest

of which is devoted almost entirely to snowcat skiing,

popular Mangy Moose, a boisterous bar in a big barn-like

cross-country ski trail in the U.S., connecting wild terrain

where runs are accessed by snow machines) on the west-

structure just south of the tram. Try their signature buf-

and finely groomed trails—with many of Vermont’s finest

ern slopes of the grand Tetons. Receiving full-blast winter

falo meat loaf, and stay late for live music and Western

country inns located along its length. The route offers a

storms and averaging a whopping 500 inches (40 feet) of

swing dancing.

tremendous range of experiences, from easy, well-

snow a year, it’s frequently cited as having the most (and

Getting there: Flight from Delhi to Newark, then

groomed trails to breaking trail in two feet of newly fallen

best) snow in the U.S., making it one of skidom’s Holy Pil-

Newark to Denver, and then Denver to Jackson Hole

snow. (Snowshoers are allowed on its whole length and

Park city, Utah

major Nordic ski centers at Okemo, Stowe and Stratton,

Park City Skiing: Interstate 80 shoots east of Salt Lake

the Catamount Trail offers experienced skiers a chance

beaten. Owned by an ex-ski bum, it blends Western

City towards three of the Rocky Mountains’ pre-eminent

to travel from picturesque inn to inn, spending the night

warmth and flat-out luxury, making it a perfect year-round

ski resorts and Park City, Utah’s lively and sophisticated

in well-fed comfort before moving on.

snowmobilers on 70 miles of it.) Interconnecting with

grimages. Of the handful of lodgings in Teton Village, the slopeside location of the new Teton Mountain Lodge can’t be

J ANUA R Y 2014|

by TNH DESK

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY

Aviation News

Airline Financial Outlook Strengthens $12.9B Global Net Profit Expected in 2013 for Airlines

leverage the improving eco-

and should not be taken as in

nomic cycle to boost prof-

indicator of individual airline

itability significantly in 2014.

performance which can vary

Airlines in North America,

he International Air

the airline industry—out-

greatly from the global out-

where consolidation has pro-

Transport Associa-

stripping the $19.2 billion net

look,

gressed the furthest, are ex-

from its directional shifts.

including

variations

tion (IATA) has an-

profit that the industry re-

nounced an upward revision

turned in 2010 - it is impor-

Forecast Drivers

profits and best margins in

to its industry financial out-

tant

2010

Economic Cycle: Global

both 2013 and 2014. European

note

that

pected to generate the largest

look. For 2013 airlines are ex-

revenues were $579 billion.

GDP is expected to expand by

airlines, still suffering from

pected to return a global net

The net profit margin in 2010

2.0% in 2013 and 2.7% in 2014.

the weak European economy,

profit of $12.9 billion. This is

was 3.3%, some 0.7 percent-

This is unchanged from the

are expected to see some im-

expected to improve to a net

age points higher than the

September forecast. The gen-

provements in profitability

profit of $19.7 billion in 2014.

2.6% expected for 2014.

eral trend of improvement in

from successful joint ventures over the North Atlantic.

Both are improvements on the

“Overall, the industry’s

developed economies – partic-

September forecast which an-

fortunes are moving in the

ularly for the US - and rela-

Cargo Demand: Cargo de-

ticipated an industry net

right direction. Jet fuel prices

tively disappointing growth in

mand remains largely stag-

profit of $11.7 billion in 2013

remain high, but below their

the BRICS countries is ex-

nant. Airlines are expected to

increasing to $16.4 billion in

2012 peak. Passenger demand

pected to continue into 2014.

carry 51.6 million tonnes of

2014. The upward revision re-

is expanding in the 5-6%

Passenger Demand: Pas-

cargo in 2013, increasing to

range—in line with the histor-

senger demand is robust and

52.5 million tonnes in 2014.

flects lower jet fuel prices

ical trend. Efficiencies gained

passenger numbers are ex-

This modest increase in de-

over the forecast period as

through mergers and joint

pected to reach 3.1 billion in

mand is expected to be offset

well as improvements to the

ventures are delivering value

2013 and rise by 6% to 3.3 bil-

by a decline in yields (-2.1% in

industry’s structure and effi-

to both passengers and share-

lion in 2014. Nonetheless,

2014). Despite the stagnation

ciency already visible in quar-

holders. And product innova-

competition remains intense

in the air cargo industry, belly

terly

year.

tions are growing ancillary

and industry-wide average

capacity continues to be in-

Passenger markets continue

results

this

revenues,” said Tony Tyler,

yields are expected to fall by

troduced as airlines seek to

to outperform the cargo busi-

IATA’s Director General and

0.2% in 2013 and by 0.6% in

maximize on the robust pas-

ness which remains stagnant

CEO.

2014.

senger demand. Cargo rev-

both on volumes and revenues.

“We must temper our opti-

Ancillary Revenues: Ancil-

enues are expected to be $60

mism with an appropriate

lary revenues are a key driver

billion in both 2013 and 2014.

IATA expects 2014 to be a

dose of caution. It’s a tough

of improved financial per-

While revenues peaked in

second consecutive year of

environment in which to run

formance. Worldwide ancil-

2011 at $67 billion, for 2013

strengthening

profitability

an airline. Competition is in-

lary revenues have risen to an

and 2014 they are basically

(beginning from 2012 when

tense and yields are deterio-

estimated $13/passenger. Air-

unchanged from 2007 levels.

airlines posted a net profit of

rating.

volumes

lines are underpinning their

The “on-shoring” of pro-

$7.4 billion). Industry net

haven’t grown since 2010 and

profitability with innovative

duction is having an adverse

profit margins, however, re-

cargo revenues are back at

products and services. On a

impact on the cargo business.

main weak at 1.1% of rev-

2007 levels. The passenger

per passenger basis, ancillary

This is being driven by two

enues in 2012, 1.8% in 2013

business is expanding more

revenues are greater than the

forces. Since the recession we

Cargo

and 2.6% in 2014. Within this

robustly. Some airlines will

$5.94/passenger profit that

have seen a rise in protection-

aggregate forecast for the en-

out-perform our estimates

airlines are expected to earn

ist measures by governments

tire industry, performance of

and others will under-per-

in 2014. Without ancillaries,

aiming to stimulate domestic

individual airlines and re-

form. But, on average, airlines

the industry would be making

economies. In tandem the ef-

gions will vary considerably.

will only make a net profit of

a loss from its core seat and

fects of earlier liberalization

about $5.94 per passenger in

cargo products.

are fading as costs rise in pre-

The anticipated $19.7 billion profit in 2014 would come

J ANU ARY 2 01 4 |

global air transport sector

2014,” said Tyler.

Improved Industry Struc-

viously low labor-cost loca-

ture: Improved industry struc-

tions. These conditions are

on projected revenues of $743

IATA outlook forecasts

billion. While this would be

are estimates of the aggre-

ture and efficiency gains

likely to extend over several

the largest absolute profit for

gate

should allow the industry to

years.

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY

performance

the

by TNH DESK

Aviation News

Aviation is critical to the global economy: Tony Tyler As impressive as the achievements of the industry have been, the aviation industry still faces challenges, said Tony Tyler, Director General & CEO, IATA, while speaking at Global Media Day, Geneva.

ing of cultures and ideas and

part of daily life for so many

the lifting of many out of

that we take it for granted.”

poverty. I would even say that

Tyler continued, “Every

it has made our world a more

60 seconds, 52 aircraft take

peaceful place through the

off, $12.1 million worth of

mutual understanding that it

cargo is delivered, 5,700 pas-

has facilitated.”

sengers will board aircraft

The numbers are impres-

somewhere in the world, and

sive. 2013 will see passenger

the global fleet will cross over

numbers top 3 billion for the

70,000 kilometers. Through-

ur goal is to

cival Fansler was the vision-

first time, increasing to 3.3

out 2014 we will be producing

build

“O

under-

ary who conceived the idea

billion in 2014. So we are ap-

evidence of aviation’s many

standing of the

for an air service. And the

proaching a point where this

contributions to modern life.

challenges that the air trans-

hero of the day was Abram C.

industry will move half the

You are probably already fa-

port industry faces. So I antic-

Pheil who bought the ticket

world’s population from one

miliar with our top-line fig-

ipate

for $400 proving the concept

place to another over the

ures. Aviation supports some

Transparency

that commercial aviation cre-

course of a year—and do it

57 million jobs and over $2.2

ates value.

safely.

trillion in economic activity.

discussions.

good

day

and openness are critical to the success of a trade associ-

Jannus, Benoist, Fansler

In terms of accidents,

And this industry delivers

ation. And I am sure that you

and Pheil were all visionary

IATA took a step back from

about 50 million tonnes of

know that our communica-

people. Together, their actions

the record safety perform-

cargo that accounts for $6.4

tions team is always open for

on New Year’s Day 1914 set in

ance of 2012, which was an

trillion—or about 35% -- of the

your questions and eager to

motion the development of an

exceptional year in which

value of goods traded interna-

share our insight on what is

industry which, over the next

there was no accident among

tionally.”

100 years, would change the

the carriers on the IATA Op-

Aviation is critical to the

world enormously. Fansler

erational Safety Audit (IOSA)

global economy, said Tyler,

summed up the importance of

registry. “At this point we are

adding, “It is a force for good

the moment when he said,

tracking towards 2013 being

in our world. And it enables

“What was impossible yester-

the second best year in terms

individuals the freedom to

day is an accomplishment of

of the accident rate. But, at

make

today—and tomorrow her-

the same point last year we

change their lives and our

alds the unbelievable.”

Tony Tyler, Director General & CEO International Aviation Transport Association

“

it is good to approach our 100th anniversary on an optimistic trend of improvement. But we cannot ignore the fact that airline returns, in general, remain at very low levels. While many things are moving in the right direction, challenges remain.

going on in the industry,” said Tyler.

connections

that

had more than double the

world. I hope that you will join

“IATA will be celebrating

number of fatalities. This year

in the celebration of a re-

this important Centennial

there have been 210 fatalities.

markable century.” He further

over the course of 2014, start-

Over the course of last year it

said, “As impressive as the

Global Media Day was

ing by supporting a re-enact-

was 402,” said Tyler, adding,

achievements of the industry

started by IATA in 2004 so

ment of that momentous flight

“Of course that is still 210 too

have been, we still face chal-

this was the tenth edition of

on New Year’s Day in Florida.

many. And every accident and

lenges. The first airline—the

the annual event. This year

The focus of the celebration

fatality re-dedicates aviation

St. Petersburg-Tampa Airboat

Global Media Day came on the

will be on the value that avia-

to doing even better. But mov-

line—started with an impres-

eve of a momentous event—

tion creates. Just think of how

ing 3 billion people safely at

sive yield. As mentioned, the

the 100th anniversary of the

different our world would be

nearly 40,000 feet in tubes of

first ticket was auctioned for

birth of commercial aviation.

today were it not for avia-

metal and carbon fiber is an

some $400. Even before ad-

On 1 January 1914 the first

tion,” said Tyler. He added,

amazing validation of the in-

justing for inflation, that is

paying passenger on a sched-

“Aviation has given people the

dustry’s

about double the average

uled airline flight was trans-

freedom and independence to

safety. That commitment ex-

ticket issued today. The ticket

ported across Tampa Bay in

explore our world. This has

tended over the whole of the

price quickly fell to $5. And

Florida. It is a story with

connected people and linked

last century during which avi-

the company wrapped up its

many characters. Tony Jan-

economies. And in doing so it

ation moved from being an ac-

operations by mid-May of that

nus was the pilot. Thomas

has been a force for develop-

tivity for daredevils and the

year. It was an indication of

Benoist built the aircraft. Per-

ment, globalization, the shar-

affluent to being so much of a

the financial challenges that

commitment

J ANUA R Y 2014|

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY

Aviation News

“

face aviation and continue to

that I do want to give a bit of

ignore the fact that airline re-

•Both of these…and other

this day.”

context to this announce-

turns, in general, remain at

direct fuel taxes are in contra-

International Civil Avia-

ment. The industry’s fortunes

very low levels. While many

vention of the Chicago Conven-

tion Organization (ICAO) sta-

are improving. And $19.7 bil-

things are moving in the right

tion

tistics show that airlines have

lion probably sounds like a

direction, challenges remain,”

•A budget agreement in

only made a profit in about

very large number. It is. But it

said Tyler. He added, “Over

the US would see the mini-

half of the years since 1945.

is shared among hundreds of

the course of the day you will

mum “security fee” rise from

“But I am pleased to say that

airlines. They will take in

be hearing in detail about

$5 per round trip to $11.20. It

we will celebrate the centen-

$743 billion in revenues by

some of our main areas of ac-

bears no relation to the cost of

nial in the black,” said Tyler,

transporting some 3.3 billion

tivity on behalf of our 240

providing security and the ex-

“Before we get into the num-

passengers. Even a very sim-

members. I don’t want to steal

cess will remain with the

ple division of the profit by the

the thunder of the group of

treasury. So it is a tax. And it

number of passengers will

presenters that will follow, but

is estimated that this will ex-

quickly show that the indus-

I would like to highlight my

tract nearly $13 billion from

try will be retaining a little

thoughts on a few key areas.”

“

carried.

the industry over ten years— should it take effect as sched-

Governments

uled from 1 July. Why are

To put that into perspec-

“Airlines are doing a great

already heavily-taxed air trav-

bers, please keep one thing in

tive, the McDonald’s down the

job of serving their customers

elers being singled out in this way?

mind. This is a diverse indus-

road here in Geneva will

and being profitable in some

try. Some airlines are doing

make about the same amount

very challenging trading cir-

•And, although also not

quite well. Recent announce-

of profit by selling four Happy

cumstances. But I am increas-

strictly a tax, the import parity

ments from Delta and Emi-

Meals at a cost in Geneva of

ingly

about

pricing policy in Brazil has the

rates affirm that. But others

$30. Their global margin is

governments that don’t seem

same effect. It makes the pur-

are struggling with weak prof-

about 20%. I don’t begrudge

to “get it” in terms of under-

chase of jet fuel in Brazil 17%

itability as we saw with the

McDonald’s their profits. But

standing the value that avia-

higher than the global aver-

Qantas market update last

when compared to the airline

tion can contribute to the

age—in a country that pro-

week. Keeping that thought in

industry it begs the question

development

duces most of its own fuel.

mind as background, today

of whether $6/passenger is a

economies,” said Tyler. Giving a few examples, Tyler said:

concerned

their

•There are also passenger

we are raising our global

reasonable reward for air-

profit outlook for this year to

lines if you consider the tech-

Taxation: “Airlines, like all

which is the UK’s Air Passen-

$12.9 billion. And we see that

nology, skills and capital that

companies, pay taxes. And air

ger Duty (APD). It is the

increasing to $19.7 billion

is invested.

travelers pay taxes as well.

biggest single aviation tax in

That should not come as a sur-

the world and it accounts for

next year. That is $1.2 billion

The average margin of the

taxes, the most infamous of

better for 2013 than we ex-

airline industry even next

prise. But often times the

some GBP2.8 billion in 2012-3.

pected in September. And it is

year—which if we are correct

taxes are excessive or in con-

And the projection is for this to

$3.3 billion better for 2014.”

will see the highest absolute

travention of international

increase to GBP4.3 billion by

This is being led primarily

profit ever—will be 2.6%.

conventions—or both!” Giving

2018-9.

by a slight fall in the high

Many airlines will do better

some examples of the chal-

price of oil, the growing suc-

than this. And many others

lenges Aviation faces on taxa-

all the taxes that we don’t

cess of airline innovations

will under-perform. It is an

tion, Tyler said:

like, but that would take a

“I could go on to describe

that are generating ancillary

average projection. But what

•In Africa, taxes, fees and

very long time. The point that

revenues, and the positive im-

it tells us is that we are not re-

lack of transparency are

I would like to make and

pact that mergers and joint

warding our shareholders in

major contributors to making

which I hope that you will con-

ventures are having—gener-

line with the risk, complexity

jet fuel costs in Africa on aver-

sider in your reporting is the

ating better connectivity for

and value that are inherent in

age 21% more expensive than

economic cost of such taxes.

passenger and driving effi-

the airline industry.

the global average

They dampen demand for

ciencies Brian Pearce is the author

J ANU ARY 2 01 4 |

less than $6 per passenger

“It is good to approach our

•Mexico is among the lat-

travel. That’s bad for the air-

100th anniversary on an opti-

est states to introduce an en-

lines, but more importantly, it

of the outlook and will be pre-

mistic trend of improvement.

vironmental fuel tax totaling

is bad for the local economy,”

senting the details. But before

Having said that, we cannot

$37 million annually

said Tyler.

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY

by TNH DESK

Aviation News

ciation with British Airways’

British Airways Celebrated ‘Silent Picturehouse' in Mumbai in True Bollywood Style! A three-day celebratory event that commemorated 100 years of Indian Cinema! Graced with presence of Bollywood super stars such as, Karan Johar, Arjun Rampal, Malaika Arora Khan, Arjun Kapoor, Arbaaz Khan, Mandira Bedi, Chitrangda Singh, Minissha Lamba and many more!

Gham, Kuch Kuch Hota Hai and Yeh Jawaani Hai Dee-

be a part of the Indian film in-

wani, handpicked by Karan

dustry. This is a great year

Johar himself.

for us in India as we are cele-

In addition, the event wit-

brating 100 glorious years of

nessed an exquisite showcase

the Indian cinema, perhaps

of Queenie Dhody’s jewellery

the biggest film industry in

collection inspired by eternal

the world. British Airways

beauties from different Bolly-

has brought an interesting

wood eras. The ceremony cul-

South Asia, British Airways,

concept of cinema viewing,

minated with a gala event on

said “India is one of our most

Silent Picturehouse, to the

Wednesday, 18th of December,

enthusiasts

significant markets and we

people of Mumbai for the first

which was attended by crème

walked down the red carpet

take pride in being a part of

time ever to commemorate

de la crème of Mumbai’s high

as British Airways launched

the celebrations of complet-

this occasion. As part of this

society including numerous

lovers

film

the much awaited film extrav-

ing 100 years of Indian cin-

initiative, we have showcased

Bollywood celebrities. The

aganza, ‘Silent Picturehouse’

ema

‘Silent

some of my favourite selec-

evening later saw the celebra-

to celebrate 100 glorious

Picturehouse’ for the first

tion of films from Dharma

tions literally taken to the

years of Indian cinema. The

time to Mumbai. We at British

productions, which truly res-

skies with the highest tea

three day event, which prom-

Airways, just like the Indian

onated with the spirit of Bol-

party in Mumbai with a

bringing

ised its guests to travel the

cinema are constantly re-

lywood. I hope that people

smashing ‘Silent Disco’ after-

world from their seats, was

defining, innovating and in-

have enjoyed this unique cin-

party at AER Lounge at Four

hosted at Four Seasons Hotel,

troducing an array of new

ematic experience combined

Seasons

Mumbai from 16th of Decem-

initiatives to showcase our

with British Airways’ hospi-

Guests were treated to a se-

ber to 18th of December. The

drive towards customer grat-

tality at the event.”

lection of unique speciality

event witnessed presence of

ification.

Picture-

The screenings show-

teas from the Twinings’ Sig-

some of the most prominent

house has truly been a

cased Bollywood blockbuster

nature Tea Cocktails with an

names in the film fraternity,

unique opportunity for every-

films

innovative new blend of the

including Karan Johar, host-

one here tonight to have had

screens, playing simultane-

nation’s

ing the gala night! Amongst

ously in a space to recreate

specifically

“Silent

on-board

experience

three

different

Hotel,

Mumbai.

favourite

drink,

designed

for

other luminaries, sizzling

whilst enjoying our unparal-

the in-flight entertainment ex-

British Airways. The ‘Silent

Bollywood celebrities, Arjun

leled inflight entertainment

perience with the traditional

Picturehouse’ is a unique cin-

Rampal,

and delectable menu options

cinema viewing environment.

ematic experience; an original

Malaika

Arora

Khan, Arbaaz Khan, Arjun

from the comfort of their

The audience tuned in to pre-

concept by the British Air-

Kapoor, Mandira Bedi, Chi-

seat. This has been a truly

selected jury movies of their

ways launched globally in

trangda Singh and Minissha

exciting night for us and we

choice using wireless head-

2010 to mark the airline’s

Lamba graced the occasion

do hope that our customers

phones

partnership

with their presence.

have had an extremely enjoy-

screenings. Movies screened

Academy of Film and Televi-

at the event included Dharma

sion Arts (BAFTA).

Christopher Fordyce, Re-

Bhutan Airlines to touch down Kolkata Airport

able experience.”

and

enjoyed

the

with

British

Commenting on his asso-

Productions’ super hits such

by TNH DESK

integrated terminal at Netaji

rier to begin operations at Ter-

pensive. Kolkata has emerged

Subhas Chandra Bose Interna-

minal 3 of Kolkata Airport ever

as a significant market for

tional Airport and will begin its

since its formal opening in Jan-

Paro-bound tourists flying out

daily flight operations from

uary, 2013. As of now, Druk Air

form the city. Being a full-ser-

from

kingdom of Bhutan, here’s

Kolkata to Paro sometime in

is the only airline that operates

vice carrier, Bhutan airlines will

Kolkata and eastern

some good news in the offing.

November, 2013.

between Kolkata and Paro sec-

offer competitive fares to fliers

region of India inter-

For the first time, Bhutan Air-

Bhutan Airlines also hap-

tor and with only limited seats

that would be in sync with Thai

ested to jet-set to the mountain

lines will touch down the new

pens to be the premier new car-

on offer; the airfare is quite ex-

and Jet Airways.

tourists

‘Silent Picturehouse’, Karan Johar said, “I am delighted to

and

movie

gional Commercial Manager,

as, Kabhi Khushi Kabhie

stars,

ollywood

J ANUA R Y 2014|

by TNH DESK

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY

Aviation News

Kati ihamaki, vice President, Finnair Ihamaki.

Finnair Creating value for destinations

ditional change for good col-

Asia is key to strategy of Finnair, and “India being an important part of Asia is definitely a key market for us,” said, Kati Ihamaki, Vice President, Finnair.

Prem Kumar

organization on such an important issue.

lection programme on its

Finnair specializes in fly-

international flights, in coop-

ing between Asia and Europe.

eration with UNICEF, as part

With its hub in Helsinki, the

of UNICEF Schools for Asia

airline serves 13 cities in Asia

programme, whose aim is to

and more than 60 destinations

provide education to children

in Europe. The only carrier in

in 11 countries in Asia. Under

Northern Europe with a 4-star

the programme, passengers

Skytrax rating, Finnair also

can also donate money by

routinely ranks in the top tier

placing cash in envelopes

of global punctuality surveys.

they find in aircraft seat.

Recently the airline cele-

Finnair Plus members can

brated its 90th birthday an-

donate their points to Finnish

niversary. Finnair is also in

Committee

UNICEF.

the midst of an upgrade drive

destination in terms of socio-

Funds raised under the pro-

across the customer experi-

for

economic development. With

gramme support children’s

ence, from lounge service and

innair aims to double

its objective of creative values

schooling in 11 Asian coun-

food to cabin interiors and

its operation in Asia

for destinations, Finnair has

tries. The 18th Change for

seats.

by 2020 with key

partnered with UNICEF to

Good campaign has started

focus on countries like India.

promote education in Asia in-

recently.

“India is one of the key grow-

cluding India. Finnair wants

“We also work for provid-

service standards and excel-

ing markets in Asia, so it is

to create a positive impact in

ing clean drinking water to

lence in travel and tourism in

key to our growth strategy in

destinations in social-eco-

communities. We also work

the region. Airline is known

Asia,” said Ihamaki, adding

nomic terms. “Education is

for disabled people. We are

for its punctuality, service

that this market will continue

key for child development,

working for socio- economic

quality and hassle-free trans-

Finnair has always been ahead in raising the bar of

to growth in future as well,

and we are working with

development of under-privi-

fers. In 2013, Finnair took a

creating opportunities for

UNICEF on ‘School for Asia

leged people in Asian coun-

series of initiatives to enhance

Finnair.

Project’ to promote education

tries,” said Ihamaki, adding

the customer experience, and

airlines,

in Asian destinations by sup-

that issues like sustainability,

the airlines would continue to

Finnair is just not only serv-

porting children’s education.

conservation,

environment,

seek ways to make the experi-

ing destinations, but also cre-

We are also working with

etc are very important for

ence of flying to Europe from

ating

UNICEF

Finnair and the airlines will

Asia even better.

Unlike

J ANU ARY 2 01 4 |

continue to work with other

Finnair is carrying its tra-

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY

other

values

for

such

India,”

said

Aviation News

New Year’s Day 2014 marks 100 Years of Commercial Aviation Celebration of first paying passenger flight launches year of reflection on contribution of aviation to modern life. anuary 1, 2014 marks

positively impacts—directly

cultures,

exactly 100 years since

and indirectly—people in all

opens markets, and fosters

the birth of commercial

corners of the world. Some

development.

key statistics include:

vides people around the globe

aviation. The International Air Transport Association

•

expands

minds,

Aviationpro-

Malindo Air starts daily flights from Delhi to Kuala Lumpur Malindo Air, a Malaysian based hybrid airline, announced today that it will launch its first scheduled commercial flight from Delhi to Kuala Lumpur on 30 December 2013.

On average, every

with the freedom to make con-

(IATA) invites everyone with

day more than 8 million peo-

nections that can change their

Malindo Air’s inaugural

an interest in aviation to join

ple fly. In 2013 total passenger

lives and the world,” said

flight from India will depart

a year-long celebration of the

numbers were 3.1 billion—

Tony Tyler, IATA’s Director

from Indira Gandhi Interna-

speech,

100th anniversary and take

surpassing the 3 billion mark

General and CEO.

tional Airport, New Delhi on

Datuk Naimun said that

10.30

aside from Malaysia Air-

Commemorative Activities

p.m.and will arrive at Kuala

lines and Air Asia, Malindo

Lumpur International Air-

Air is the third airline from

port (KLIA) at 6.35a.m. the

Malaysia having connectiv-

next day.

ity to the cities of India. He

part in a conversation about

for the first time ever. That

what needs to happen to make

number is expected to grow to

the next 100 years even more

3.3 billion in 2014 (equivalent

momentous.

to 44% of the world’s popula-

ing100years.com)

tion).

launched in 1 January 2014 to

•A

website

(www.flywill

December

46,000. In

his

welcoming

His

Excellency

From a pioneering begin-

•About 50 million tonnes

host the centennial celebra-

This announcement was

said, “The decision by Ma-

ning to a global force for

of cargo is transported by air

tion. Along with historical and

made today by Chandran

lindo Air to start its services

good

each year (about 140,000

economic reference materials,

Rama Muthy, Chief Execu-

to these long-awaited new

•On 1 January 1914, a

tonnes daily). The annual

the website will also be an in-

tive Officer of Malindo Air at

routes

team of four visionaries com-

value of these goods is some

teractive information hub de-

two separate events for the

value and importance of

bined efforts in the first

$6.4 trillion—or 35% of the

picting

that

media and the travel agents

tourism, trade and business

scheduled commercial airline

value of goods traded interna-

commercial aviation provides

at The Lalit Hotel, New

links between India and

flight.

tionally.

from personal, economic and

Delhi. The events were

Malaysia. The Government

•Percival Fansler organ-

•Aviation supportsover 57

ised the funding for the St. Pe-

million jobs and generates

tersburg-Tampa Airboat Line

$2.2 trillion in economic activ-

which

first

ity. The industry’s direct eco-

scheduled air service across

nomic contribution of around

provided

the

value

emphasizes

the

graced by His Excellency

of Malaysia hopes that this

Malaysia’s High Commis-

new air link will contribute

tions about aviation’s first

sioner

Datuk

to boost tourism in support

century can be linked through

NaimunAshakli

Moham-

of Tourism Malaysia’s Visit

#flying100

mad.

other perspectives. •

Twitter

conversa-

India,

Malaysia

Year

2014

$540 billion would, if trans-

•IATA is one of the spon-

This inaugural flight is

lated into the GDP ranking of

sors of Flight 2014whichis

followed by flights from

conducted the first flight, pi-

countries, place the industry

planning tore-enact the first

Kuala Lumpur to Trichy on

Chief Executive Officer of

loted by Tony Jannus.

in 19th position.

commercial passenger flight

2 January 2014 and to Mum-

Malindo Air says, “Firstly,

•Global airline industry

using a Hoffman X-4 “Mullet

bai on 15 February 2014.

we are excited to announce

of St. Petersburg, paid $400 at

turnover is expected to be

Skiff” amphibious flying boat,

The special introductory

the wonderful news of our

auction for the 23-minute

$743 billion in 2014, with an

similar in many respects to

offer is available now and

expansion to the cities of

flight.

average industry net profit

the original Benoist airboat

return fares will start from

India. As a new airline in

margin of 2.6%.

which performed the first

INR

all-inclusive

the aviation market with

flight. The Hoffman will take

from Delhi and Bombay to

nine months of operation

Tampa Bay, Florida. •Thomas Benoist’sairboat

•Abram Pheil, then mayor

These pioneers could not have envisioned the transfor-

“Over the last century,

19,900

(VMY14) project.” Chandran Rama Muthy,

mational changes that would

commercial

has

off from St Petersburg, Florida

Kuala Lumpur, and INR

record, we have clocked

follow. The industry began

transformed the world in

and fly across the bay to

10,000 all-inclusive from

over 70 per cent Load Fac-

with only one passenger on

ways unimaginable in 1914.

Tampa at 10:00am US Eastern

Trichy to Kuala Lumpur.

tor and 87 per cent On Time

one route on 1 January 1914.

The first flight provided a

Standard Time, re-tracing the

Our business class return

Performance (OTP), and

Today the global aviation in-

short-cut across Tampa Bay.

exact path taken by Jannus

fares from Delhi to Kuala

carried over 800,000 pas-

Today the aviation industry

and Pheil 100 years ago.

Lumpur start from INR

sengers.”

dustry dented

provides

unprece-

connectivity

and

aviation

re-unites loved ones, connects

by TNH DESK

J ANUA R Y 2014|

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY

Hospitality News

PAX Xotels helps budget hotels in handling operational bottlenecks

these issues in mind, IDS

the online room sales options

nected to PMS system to sell

NEXT has developed PAX Xo-

and attracting a growing

room through online chan-

tels, a compact and user-

number of guests.

nels. Through Rexlite dash-

friendly

Developed by IDS NEXT, PAX Xotels is a compact and user-friendly property management system to help budget hotels in handling operational bottlenecks such as lack of skilled manpower, high attrition, revenue leakage and pilferage, etc.

property

There is no single national

board IDS NEXT is going to

management system to help

hotel software vendor in India

provide two-way connect to

budget hotels in handling

to address requirements of

traditional

these operational bottlenecks.

turn has impacted

this particular segment. IDS

agents, web booking engine,

NEXT, being a global player in

non-traditional room sales

Channel Sales of IDS NEXT

this domain and with largest

channels and mobile chan-

spoke on this market segment

market share in India planned

nels.

and various aspects of PAX

to provide a compact yet pow-

Shetty,

>>>

erful property management

PAX is to enable budget hotels enjoy the power of superior

infrastructure to help hotels

automation in a cost effective

What is the average

in this segment to sell rooms

manner by implementing a

market size unorgan-

online. IDS NEXT will enable

property management system

pacity in a big way in recent

ized or small and budget

owners of small hotels to

that is quick to deploy and

days. And this has led both

hotel segment that might

monitor and control business

easy to use. Our main focus is

business and leisure travelers

want to use PAX Xotel?

while on the move

that, the hotel should be able

to become extremely cost con-

What was the idea behind

Already, over 100 IDSnext

to go live quickly with our

scious and they are increas-

coming up with such a com-

trained full service channel

PAX property management

ingly turning towards budget

pact property management

partners spread across India

system in place.

As more and more guests are booking their hotel rooms online, it is critical to have online room sales channels connected to PMS system to sell room through online channels.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;

Pradeepa Shetty, VP, Channel Sales, IDS NEXT

are carrying the PAX Xotels tion backed by IDS channel

sales & support manpower

hotels?

property management solu-

How exactly PAX Xotels can help budget

based out in each zone. More

PAX Xotels effectively auto-

channel partners are going to

mates front office and restau-

be enrolled in tourist, pilgrim-

rant operations. The product

hotels. This trend definitely

system for this section of

age and business towns of

comes with many useful inter-

indicates that the demand for

the industry?

India in coming days to ex-

faces like Tally Accounting

budget hotels is rising. But,

Unorganized or small and

tend local support to budget

System, door lock, Plutus on-

the big question here is: are

budget hotel segment plays a

hotels.

line credit card settlement,

IDS NEXT has developed PAX Xotels, which is a compact and user-friendly property management system to help budget hotels in handling these operational bottlenecks.

EPABX System, scanner and Do they really need a PMS?

web cam. Also, it provides a web

Yes. Growing competition in

based

the

pushing

Rexlite that enables hotel own-

budget hotels to provide bet-

ers to monitor hotel statistics,

industry

dashboard,

called

ter guest experience to at-

allot inventory to connected

major role in the Indian hotel

tract

channels and manage rates in

really capable enough to han-

industry. As per studies,

maintain better image.Au-

connected online channels.

dle this demand?

around 70% of the Indian

tomating each area of opera-

Additionally, it allots inventory

hotel industry comes under

tion will ease the pressure on

to own web booking engines

these small or budget hotels

Budget hotels do face several problems like, lack of

unorganized sector.

repeat

guests

and

the hotel staff/management

and mobile room booking

Like other big players in

and help them focus on im-

channels like RoomsTonite.

tion, revenue leakage and pil-

the industry, hotels under this

proving the guest experience.

PAX Xotels provides technol-

ferage.

have

particular segment also aim

As more and more guests

ogy infrastructure to effec-

budgetary constraint while

to become efficient &highly

are booking their hotel rooms

tively automate operations

selecting a property manage-

profitable by automating the

online, it is critical to have on-

and increase revenue through

ment system. Keeping all

entire operations including

line room sales channels con-

online room sales. by TNH DESK

skilled manpower, high attri-

J ANU ARY 2 01 4 |

The idea behind creating

system along with requisite

. Excerpts:

try and the guestsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; buying ca-

the hospitality indus-

travel

VP,

Pradeepa

Xotels in an interview with he economic down-

online

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY

They

even

Hospitality News

Hilton Garden Inn hotel opens in Trivandrum, Kerala Hilton Garden Inn Trivandrum is the city’s first internationally-branded hotel. ilton

Hilton

Garden

Inn,

Worldwide's

award-winning

brand of upscale yet affordable hotels, announces the opening of Hilton Garden Inn Trivandrum in Kerala, India, representing an addition to the brand's growing portfolio of dation in the city,” said Manish

more than 570 hotels world-

Technopark at Kazhakkottam.

coming months, it will be able

Garg, general manager, Hilton

to accommodate up to 450 peo-

Garden Inn Trivandrum. “We

ple in a range of settings.

provide an environment that

For stays between Decem-

allows travellers to be most

ber 27, 2013 and January 31,

productive while on the road,

2014, guests can enjoy rates

offering a great stay at an even

starting from `7,000* plus

greater value. The Hilton Gar-

taxes per night. In addition to

den Inn Satisfaction Promise™

accommodation in a room, the

is our commitment to our

rate includes complimentary

guests that they can count on

internet throughout the hotel

us to deliver a wonderful stay.

and 24-hour complimentary

It is our pledge that we will do

business

centre

services.

whatever it takes to ensure our

Guests who are able to plan

guests are satisfied, or they do

ahead can save by booking the

not pay.”

Advance Purchase rate that starts from `6,300 plus taxes

wide. The opening of Hilton

Guests at the hotel will

Each room and suite at the

Garden Inn Trivandrum marks

enjoy the Hilton Garden Inn

hotel is furnished with a com-

per night.

Guests can also

Hilton Worldwide’s foray into

brand’s signature offerings in-

fortable Serta bed and a large

avail the Bed N' Breakfast rate

Trivandrum and Kerala.

cluding complimentary inter-

work desk with an ergonomic

that starts from `7,500 plus

net, 24-hour complimentary

Herman Miller chair. Dining at

taxes, and in addition to ac-

Managed by Hilton Worldwide and owned by Muthoot

business centre and Hilton

the hotel includes Garden

commodation in a room, com-

Hotels & Infrastructure Ven-

HHonors™, the only guest re-

Grille, an all-day world-cuisine

plimentary

internet

and

tures (P) Ltd., the 134-room

wards programme that allows

restaurant; V Bar, a contempo-

24-hour complimentary busi-

hotel is centrally located on

members to earn Points &

rary sports bar; the 24-hour

ness centre services, the rate

Punnen Road, minutes from

Miles for the same stay and re-

Pavilion Pantry™ convenience

includes a wholesome break-

prime government institutions,

deem points for free nights

mart and round-the-clock room

fast.

commercial establishments,

with No Blackout Dates at over

service. Recreational facilities

younger, sharing the same

popular tourist attractions,

4,000 hotels worldwide.

Kids 12 years and

include an outdoor swimming

room, eat free! Hilton Garden

and shopping and entertain-

“We are confident our hotel

pool and a 24-hour fitness cen-

Inn Trivandrum is located on

ment hubs. The hotel is a 20-

will fast become the first

tre certified by Precor™. When

Punnen Road in Trivandrum,

minute drive from the airport

choice of travellers seeking up-

the 2,600-square foot meeting

the capital of Kerala.

and 12 kilometres from the IT

scale and affordable accommo-

and event space opens in the

J ANUA R Y 2014|

by TNH DESK

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY

Hospitality News

forward to welcoming our

Lemon Tree Premier, Red Fox opens at Delhi Aerocity Lemon Tree Hotels launched its twin properties: Lemon Tree Premier and Red Fox at Delhi Aerocity near Indira Gandhi International Airport.

ventory

restaurants including Citrus Café, the 24x7 coffee shop;

and

Slounge, the hip recreation bar

unbeatable

value-for-

and Republic of Noodles the award-winning

pan–Asian

287 stylish rooms and suites. In

restaurant. Guests can rejuve-

line with the design ethos of

nate at Fresco - the spa or at

Lemon Tree Premier hotels,

the fresh, green outdoor area

just

Speaking on the occasion,

this upscale hotel features cool

with a refreshing swimming

under 500 rooms,

Patu Keswani, Chairman &

interiors and inspiring artwork

pool,

loungers and cabanas.

vertical

garden,

Lemon Tree Premier and Red

Managing Director, The Lemon

that transform it into a refresh-

Fox Hotel were launched by

Tree Hotel Company said, “We

ing, contemporary and trendy

Lemon Tree Premier also

Shivam Asthana, President

are happy to be a part of the

space. All rooms have hi-speed

offers a unique ladies section

(East Region), Ruchi Realty

Delhi Aerocity Hospitality Dis-

WiFi, a media hub, a digital

where greater security is pro-

Holdings Ltd. - the first guest at

trict and to be one of the first

safe (accommodates a laptop),

vided to lady travelers along

Lemon Tree Premier, Delhi Air-

hotels to open here. Lemon

an orthopaedic mattress and

with an exclusive range of in-

port. Strategically located be-

Tree Premier and the Red Fox

premium bath amenities. The

room amenities designed for

tween Delhi and Gurgaon, and

Hotel at Delhi Aerocity are our

Dupleix Suites, with the sitting

ladies. Our lady guests have

a stone’s throw from both air-

flagship hotels for these brands

area and bedroom located on

greatly appreciated this offer-

ports, these two hotels offer el-

in the upscale and economy

two levels, offer luxury and

ing as the security features

egant rooms, comprehensive

segments, respectively. Both

style. A special feature is.. the

make them feel very secure and

meeting and conference facili-

brands cater to distinct trav-

cozy balcony, an open-air

the thoughtful touches make

ties as well as specialty restau-

eller profiles and are best-in-

jacuzzi and a vertical garden.

their stay easy and stress free.

rants, to cater to both business

category hotels. We are looking

Guests can unwind at any

ments with your beloved ones living life in a primitive way. However, the location of V Resorts – Rajaji National Park is

A plush trip to the world of wild animals .

such that while it places you in

fter the successful

perfect serenity, disconnected

launch of a luxury

from the world, you are only a

heritage resort in

20 minute drive from the cities of Haridwar and Rishikesh.”

Key highlights of Rajaji National Park: •5 hours drive from Delhi •23 species of mammals, 49 reptile species and 400 bird species •Project Elephant running in this park •Leopards, Striped Hyenas, Goral, Wild Boars, Jungle Cats, Sloth Bear, Barking Deer, Rhesus macaque, Cheetal Deers and Indian Porcupine can be sighted •Cost of wildlife safari at Rajaji National Park is half the price of Corbett National Park •The famous River-Rafting strip of Rishikesh is just 30 minutes’ drive from V Resorts •The revered Har-Ki-Pauri, site of the enchanting Arti in the evenings is just 20 minutes’ drive

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY

by TNH DESK

experience and special mo-

V Resorts Rajaji National Park opens

J ANUARY 20 1 4|

popular

guests and promise them the

Lemon Tree Premier has

and leisure travelers.

Tree’s

highest standards of service money.”

ith a combined in-

Lemon

Rajaji National Park offers an adventurous getaway from the hustle of the daily city life and allows one to merge in nature. The 8 rooms of the resort are with private Fort Auwa, V Resorts is all set

taking views of the picturesque

plunge pools. Apart from

to expand its roots once again

landscape of hills and farm

these to ensure that you have

in Uttrakhand with the launch

lands.

of a 16-rooms property. Lo-

Commenting on the expan-

a great holiday experience V Resorts-Rajaji National Park

cated in the outskirts of Harid-

sion, Vaibhav Dayal, Co-

also offers you a charming

war and Rishikesh, the all new

Founder & Managing Director

swimming pool, restaurant

V Resorts Rajaji National Park

of V Resorts said, “The differ-

with bar, conference room,

is a charming resort amidst

entiation for such resorts is

games room and host of ad-

the wildlife offering breath-

the charm to create a unique

venture activities. by TNH DESK

Hospitality News

Holiday Inn Express opens at Mahindra World City, Chennai

India, Middle East and Africa

attractions and shopping dis-

Second Holiday Inn Express in India opens in line with strong expansion plans for the brand.

thalia, Country Head – Duet

As with all Holiday Inn Ex-

India Group, Naveen Jain,

press hotels globally, guests at

and Douglas Martell, Vice Pres-

tricts in Chennai, making it a

ident Operations South West

smart proposition for the

Asia alongside Saurabh Son-

guests at the hotel.

President, Duet India Hotel-

Holiday Inn Express Chennai

Hotels

corporate hub of Mahindra

sand Sangeeta Prasad, CEO –

Mahindra World City can ex-

Group recently opened

World City near Chennai. The

Integrated Cities & Industrial

pect a refreshing and hassle-

nterContinental

Holiday Inn Express Chen-

property was officially opened

Clusters, Mahindra Lifespace

free stay with: Free and fast

nai Mahindra World City in the

by IHG’s Pascal Gauvin, COO

Developers Ltd. This is the sec-

Wi-Fi available in guest rooms

ond hotel to open under a joint

and throughout the hotel to

venture partnership formed be-

stay connected all day, every

tween Duet India Hotels and

day, Free Express Start™

IHG which will see a total of 19

Breakfast or a Grab & Go op-

hotels open under the brand.

tion for a smart start to the day,

The 140 room hotel offers

a comfortable and restful sleep

comfort, convenience and a

with high quality bedding and a

great location for business

choice of firm or soft pillows, re-

travellers visiting companies

freshing power showers with a

based within the city, which in-

three-function massage show-

cludes global software firms

erhead and fluffy towels after a

and automotive groups. Addi-

day exploring the city, and self-

tionally, the hotel has easy ac-

service business centre and

cess

laundry room.

key

sightseeing

by TNH DESK

IHG opens two new hotels in India

with Eros Resorts and Hotels

the hotel include a fully-

the two hotels in Mayur Vi-

New conversion properties add to the growing presence of IHG in the Delhi NCR region.

Ltd. to manage itstwo hotels

equipped health club, a spa

haris a great step in growing

Hotels

Continental and Indian cui-

sion plans for India and we

Group (IHG) has signed a

nterContinental

sine,as well as a lobby lounge

are committed to a strong

management agreement

andbar. Leisure facilities at

presence here. The signing of

in Delhi’s emerging business

and an outdoor pool. There

the choice of hotelswe’re able

district of Mayur Vihar. Under

are also a variety of meeting

to offer guests in the northern

the agreement, the hotels will

facilities to meet the needs of

part of the country. We are de-

be rebranded to IHG’s Crowne

business travellers.

Plaza and Holiday Innbrands respectively.

lighted to join hands with Eros

With 193 guest rooms, in-

Group and are confident that

cluding suites,Holiday Inn

together we will be able to de-

The hotels are located just

New Delhi Mayur ViharNoida

liver a fantastic, refreshed

off the Delhi-Noida-Delhi fly-

offers to its guests a variety of

hospitality experience to our

way connecting expressway

food and beverage options.

guests.”

and will provide an ideal op-

Café On 3 is an all-day dining

Satish Sood, Managing Di-

tion for travellers with busi-

restaurant and Roadhouse

rector, Eros Resorts & Hotels

ness interests in east Delhi

Bar and Grill is an American

Ltd said, “We are pleased to

and Noida district of the Na-

food speciality restaurant that

become a part of the IHG fam-

tional Capital Region (NCR).

is well-known for its grills, in-

ily. Being one of the world’s

ternational cocktails and live

leading hotel companies,with

Crowne Plaza New Delhi Mayur Vihar Noida offers 160

entertainment.Douglas

a reputation for providing out-

modern and spacious guest

Martell, Vice President Oper-

standing levels of hospitality

rooms. The hotel features In-

ations, South West Asia, IHG

service, we look forward to a

finiti, an all-day dining restau-

commented, “Delhi is a signif-

successful partnership.”

rant

icant city in our robust expan-

serving

Italian,

J ANUA R Y 2014|

by TNH DESK

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY

Hospitality News

2013 not a good year for the Indian hotel industry The year 2013 was one of the worst years for the Indian hotel industry in the recent years, and 2014 also does not look very promising for the industry. The result of the 2014 General elections that is supposed to be held in April-May will be a decisive factor for the turnaround in the hotel industry. If the country gets a stable government in 2014 elections, the business environment in the country will improve, and every sector including hotel industry will see improvement in its fortune in the second half of 2014. talked to some of the players of the Indian hotel industry to know their assessment of 2013, and their expectation from the year 2014. Prem Kumar

‘2013 was one of the most trying years in recent times’

of Best Western Hotels in Tier-II, II cities of India have done well like Am-

leisure traveler is looking for more and

ritsar, Zeerakpur, Lucknow, Vishakha-

more budget cuts,” said Sinha, adding,

Keswani, Deputy Managing Director,

patnam, Surat etc. Destinations like

“We expect the Business environment

Lemon Tree Hotels

Gurgaon Bangalore have not done rel-

to become robust again in 2014. Post

According to Keswani, whether

atively as good due to enhanced supply

elections we see this pace increasing.

2014 would be better than 2013 for the

in these cities. We still are committed

Best Western India will see around 10-

hotel industry will depend on the

to our target of 100 Hotels in the coun-

14 Hotels joining the operational Ho-

changing political landscape over the

try,” said Sinha. “The economy due to

tels in the coming few months. We plan

next few months, and if there is politi-

various factors was sluggish and that

to add more hotels to our portfolio.”

cal clarity and stability it could be a

did not do well for the Hospitality sec-

better

year,

but

case

coalition/third front government the landscape will be uncertain, the indusRattan Keswani Deputy Managing Director Lemon Tree Hotels

tor. The discerning Indian corporate &

try shall struggle for the next 18 plus

‘Industry witnessed close to 4-5 percent slowdown in businesses in 2013’

months. Regarding the performance of

continues to be one of the fastest grow-

Lemon Tree Hotels: “It was one

his group, Keswani said, “We were

ing economies and “this augurs well for

of the most trying years in recent

able to hold revenues of the previous

us as the corporate business will con-

times across all brands,” said Rattan

year in 2013.”

tinue to grow. Also India’s popularity as a leisure destination is growing in

‘We expect business environment becoming robust in 2014.’

profile and this can be seen in the growth that inbound travel has registered at close to 6 % in 2012, way above the world average.”

pacted by the European Slowdown and

2013 was an extremely good year

the Uttarakhand disaster,” said, Sudhir Sinha, COO

for Clarks Inn Group of Hotels as the

& President, Best

Western India. He added that even as the Hospitality industry waits for Gov-

S N Srivastava President, Clarks Inn Group of Hotels

tional. “On the business front also we

ernment initiatives, the industry has

Sudhir Sinha COO & President Best Western India

chain signed 12 new properties. Five of these properties are already opera-

taken its own initiatives adding to the

Clarks Inn Group of Hotels: “In

are satisfied with the outcome as de-

growth of Hospitality sector in India to

what I will call a mixed year for the in-

spite the weak economic sentiments

meet the demand for rooms in the

dustry, our estimate suggests that

currently prevailing, we look set to

country, especially in the Tier-II and III

overall the industry witnessed close to

buck the trend and close the year al-

cities. As a result several new mid-

4-5 percent slowdown in business be-

most at par with 2012,” said Srivas-

market hotels have opened across the

cause of a combination of reasons in-

tava. Also, looking at the strong

country. Best Western in India was able

cluding a weak economic sentiment,

demand that is there for long-stay ac-

to achieve many milestones in 2013.

Rupee devaluation and over supply of

commodations in the market, Clarks

Best Western India: “The Hospi-

November -December 2013 was the

hotel inventory,” S N Srivastava, Pres-

Inn launched the serviced apartment

tality sector in India saw both ups and

most significant for the chain since

ident, Clarks Inn Group of Hotels. How-

brand ‘Clarks Residences’ earlier this

downs. On the whole 2013 was an av-

Best Western India has managed to

ever, sounding optimistic, Srivastava

year. “This is the fourth brand in our

erage year. It was also negatively im-

cross the milestone of 50 Hotels. “Most

said that the good news is that India

portfolio and the first such addition

J ANU ARY 2 01 4 |

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY

Hospitality News

The hotel industry unsure of 2014 since we forayed in hotel operation and

plenty of new inventory ready to enter

“We expect 2014 to be largely more

erage in 2014. “We will stay committed

management vertical more than 8

the market, according to Srivastava,

positive. Whilst the 1st quarter of 2014

to our expansion plans across the

years ago,” informed Srivastava,

one of the biggest challenges in 2014

should remain strong, the second

country through an asset light strategy.

adding “The responses for the brand

will be to remain in healthy business

quarter of 2014 will have a huge bear-

In February 2013, we opened The Leela

has been overwhelming as we have

amidst the growing oversupply.

ing on the remainder of the year; if not

Palace Chennai, the city’s first sea-fac-

signed 5 ‘Clarks Residences’ totaling

"Developing and expanding our

just set the tone for the next few

ing hotel, with rave reviews and we are

about 1150 keys in less than 6

footprint will continue to be at the core

years,” said Khullar. He added, “If the

looking forward to the opening The

months!”

of our focus along with growing new

next General Elections throw up a sta-

Leela Palace Jaipur in the last quarter

As regards his expectation from

avenues of business for our hotels in

ble government option, then India’s

of next year,” Khullar. He added that

the New Year, Srivastava said “2013

2014. Looking at the kind of develop-

economic growth story would be on a

other new properties under develop-

like the year before saw the continua-

ment pipeline we have, we are expect-

firm footing. If not, the economic cli-

ment, among other locations, include

tion of weak economic sentiments.

ing a robust growth in 2014,” said

mate will suffer. The 2014 Football

Bhartiya City strategically located

This, we expect will continue for a

Srivastava. Besides, going beyond the

World Cup in Brazil in the middle of

near the Bangalore airport; Noida at

while, at least until the country goes for

national boundary, the chain is also

the year will also impact inbound

Supertech’s Spira, India’s largest

election later this year, therefore, we

planning to make an international

leisure.”

mixed-use development; Agra where

don’t expect much to happen in 2014.

foray in 2014 with an office in Singa-

The chain will continue to focus on

Although it looks like, in overall eco-

pore, which will not only help it in at-

MICE, Domestic travel and Food & Bev-

nomic sentiment as well as business

tracting new businesses from the

for our hotels, 2014 will be slightly bet-

international market but also help the

ter, but only slightly.” As there are

group expand our footprints globally.

every room will face The Taj Mahal; and Lake Ashtamudi in Kerala.

‘We expect 2014 to be a steady year’ According to Singh, in 2013, almost all markets have underper-

‘2013 was a year of unfulfilled promises’

formed including the three markets that Premier Inn is operating in, that

helped companies save against their

is Bangalore Whitefield, New Delhi

travel budgets, inbound leisure travel

Shalimar Bagh, and Pune Kharadi.

had modest corresponding gains,

He said that at Bangalore White-

largely attributed to negative public

field, occupancies are at an accept-

perception of the events late same

able level but the ARRs are low as it

time last year, that did not abate in

is an oversupplied market. At New

time to build back confidence.”

Delhi Shalimar Bagh, both occu-

However, the government did take some steps to support the industry

Shwetank Singh Regional VP Sales and Operations, Premier Inn, South Asia

pected. As for Pune Kharadi, Singh said, “We are relatively new as we

when it decided to include hotel projDeepak Khullar VP, Sales & Marketing The Leela Palaces, Hotels & Resorts

pancy and ARR are lower than ex-

ects of over Rs 200 crore each, any-

Premier Inn: “It was a tough

opened in August 2013, but the early

where in India, irrespective of star

year for us, just as it was for the

trends are that of an oversupplied

rating in the infrastructure lending list

hospitality industry overall, since

market,”

The Leela Palaces, Hotels & Re-

of RBI which will truly help the hospi-

our business is relatively new and

The Indian market and the hospi-

sorts: 2013 would be remembered as a

tality sector's financial sustainability,

only Premier Inn Bangalore has ma-

tality industry are expected to con-

year filled with pleasant surprises and

said Khullar. He added, “The govern-

tured our overall business in terms

tinue going through tough times for

unfulfilled promises. Hopes of an eco-

ment also initiated the process for

of growth,” said, Shwetank Singh,

the majority of 2014 as well, said

nomic turnaround fizzled out by the

making India a more tourist friendly

Regional Vice President – Sales and

Singh, adding that the best that

end of Q1 itself, said Deepak Khullar,

destination with extending on arrival

Operations, Premier Inn, South Asia.

hoteliers can expect this year is a

Vice President, Sales & Marketing,

visa benefits for 40 more countries,

However, he added that the growth

steady year as compared to 2013.

The Leela Palaces, Hotels & Resorts,

simplifying online visa and attracting

has not been as per their expecta-

According to Singh, the Travel and

adding, “We were unable to fully lever-

senior citizen foreign visitors. We hope

tion. “The key trend that is visible

Tourism Industry is currently the

age the potential gains from the Indian

to see the benefits of this initiative in

across the markets is the declining

largest and the fastest growing in-

rupee devaluing by 20% over the pre-

the future.”

ARR’s with steady to dipping occu-

dustries worldwide. Thus, despite a

pancies resulting in lower RevPAR.”

slow start in 2013 due to oversup-

vious year. So, whilst the devaluation

Regarding expectation from 2014,

J ANUA R Y 2014|

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY

Hospitality News

‘Business was quite slow in 2013’

plied markets, the hotel industry

entered the western region in 2013

should see improvement in 2014.

with the opening of the Pune

“Our plan of action in 2014 is to be

Kharadi property. In addition, we

various political and financial factors.”

patient in the Indian market as the

have several deals in the pipeline

As far as performance of our group is

Indian Hotel Industry is expected to

but our scheduled opening in 2014

considered in terms of growth; it was

reach `230 billion by the year 2015

(mid) is Goa Arpora. It is a 130 room

very marginal, outlook was nearly 10%

and our focus would be continuing to

property build as a resort and is a

lower than expected, said Abhilash,

expand our footprint given the posi-

stone’s throw away from Anjuna

adding, “In terms of expansion we had

tive long-term outlook for India’s

beach. We are planning to expand in

no major projects scheduled other than

economy,” said Singh, adding, “We

Chennai as well, at the OMR.”

our Rishikesh asset. Kairali Hospitality had focused more on renovating cur-

‘Profitability was under stress due to increase in capacity in 2013’ tinues to grow. We plan to add more

rent assets and consulting on various other ventures and projects.” He further said, “The outlook for

Abhilash. K. R Director Kairali Ayurvedic Group

2014 looks excellent so far, and we project it to be much better significantly. We

hotels to our portfolio in 2014 with an Kairali Ayurvedic Group: “Busi-

will build our new asset in Goa and take

ness was quite slow in 2013 as com-

on more management contracts for

Hospitality sector is directly im-

pared to previous years especially from

boutique properties across India. And

pacted by the political and economic

early May till September-end, said Ab-

fine tuning our process in Kerala and

situation in the country, said Kalra,

hilash

Kairali

focusing and on developing more

adding that in view of national elec-

Ayurvedic Group. He added, “We saw

ayurvedic and yoga retreat program

tions slated for 1st /2nd quarter of

fewer new properties in general and a

with international experts and in house

next year, he expects the first half of

lot of resistance in the market due to

research programs.”

additional capacity of around 700 rooms.

R.,

Director,

2014 to be challenging. “However, Pradeep Kalra Sr. Vice President Sales & Marketing, Sarovar Hotels

post-election and with a clear man-

‘2013 was a very eventful year for us’

date we expect 2nd half of 2014 will be very buoyant.” Kalra expects that

EBITDA value stood at 34%,” said

Sarovar Hotels: Overall the in-

there will be a mismatch of supply

Karan Singh Vaid, Vice President –

dustry grew but profitability was

and demand in certain cities particu-

Operations, The MRS Group adding,

under stress due to increase in capac-

larly Delhi – NCR with hotels opening

“For us, the value generated is beyond

ity, said Pradeep Kalra, Sr. VP, Sales

in Aerocity Delhi, Hyderabad, Ben-

just money for others. We are building

& Marketing, Sarovar Hotels, talking

galuru, smaller towns like Ludhiana

for the future. Our hotels will be archi-

about 2013.”The main challenge that

where supply will outstrip demand

tecturally pure, residential and expe-

we are facing is of increased supply

and will result in excessive competi-

riential. All of them would have

in most cities. This widens the gap be-

tion pushing down the rates further.

distinctive design identities. They will

tween demand and supply thus put-

On the contrary, operating costs con-

not be weighed down by traditions and

ting

and

tinue to escalate due to increased

history but will be inspired by and

profitability,” said Kalra. However he

cost of manpower, heat, light &

added that this is a momentary issue

power.

pressure

prices

that will level out soon. Sarovar Ho-

Karan Singh Vaid VP, Operations, The MRS Group

sensitive to the cultural heritage. They will offer their patrons the luxury of space and time.”

Sarovar Hotels has adopted tech-

tels managed to open hotels in 2013

nology in order to build greener and

The MRS Group: 2013 was a very

Vaid said that hotels are a commu-

as per its plans for the year. “We

more energy efficient hotels, said

eventful year for the MRS Group. “Our

nity of likeminded people, and “in

launched Residency Sarovar Portico

Kalra, “So every new hotel that we

business model helped us achieve

everything we do, it will be our en-

in Mumbai, RK Sarovar Portico in Sri-

build is more energy efficient than

Profitability within 2.5 years of com-

deavour to do everything so that all

nagar and Balaji Sarovar Premiere in

the previous one. With the help of

mercial operations. High Enterprise

our stake holders become our biggest

Solapur. In most destinations the

technology we are making all efforts

value (Asset replacement) / book

brand ambassadors.” said Vaid. MRS

rates were under stress. However, we

to reduce our carbon footprints.

value multiple by creating the Brand

Group would launch the Narendra

managed good occupancies all across

Moreover, in 2014 we plan to have a

‘Suryagarh’. Our turnover for FY-2013

Bhawan in Bikaner as its first venture

at average ARRs,” said Kalra.

tight control on costs so that prof-

was 14.03 crores and the promoter’s

that would cater to the mid-segment.

itability can be secured.”

capital investment was 10.61 crores.

The hotel would have 82 keys.

Furthermore, Sarovar Hotels con-

J ANU ARY 2 01 4 |

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY

Event Watch

The Oberoi, New Delhi celebrates its legacy To celebrate the legacy of

the audience, the guests enjoyed

iconic The Oberoi, New Delhi, a

the exclusive dishes and wines

sit-down hosted dinner was or-

from the iconic restaurants from

ganized recently for select guests

the hotel’s history. From La

from Travel and Trade industry.

Rochelle’s famous Fresh figs and

The event was followed by a facil-

grilled white asparagus with Gor-

itation ceremony of top tour op-

gonzola, aged balsamic served in

erators who have supported the

the year 1995 to Palms’s famous

iconic Delhi hotel over the years.

Pumpkin and sage ravioli with

While Talia, the singer regaled

black truffle from 1997. Vikram Oberoi, COO and Joint MD, The Oberoi Group

Sanjay Rai, EVP, Sales, The Oberoi Group

Hemant Mediratta, VP, Sales, The Oberoi Group and the emcee for the event

Kapil Chopra, President, The Oberoi Group

Jay Rathore, VP and GM, The Oberoi, New Delhi

L-R Hemant Mediratta, Kapil Chopra, Shanti Kohli, Jay Rathore, and Vikram Oberoi

J ANUA R Y 2014|

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY

Hospitality News

Choice Hotels India expands footprint, opens Clarion Hotel, Chennai

city including popular tourist

The hotel is equipped with 100

spots, shopping districts, rail-

well-appointed rooms, includ-

way stations and airport.

ing

Choice Hotels India, the wholly owned subsidiary of Choice Hotels International, recently opened their new property under the name of Clarion Hotel Chennai.

Speaking on the occasion,

Rooms, Luxury Suites and

Vilas Pawar, CEO, Choice Ho-

Presidential Suites. The luxury

he newly launched

hotel is group’s sec-

the important places in the

cities in the country. Strategically located in

Rooms and amenities:

Luxury

Rooms,

Club

tels India said, “Our aim has

of spaces suites and guest

always been to offer our cus-

rooms with the latest in-room

tomers an experience of world

technology promises an ex-

ond mileage point in

the heart of Chennai Business

class services at best value

traordinary experience. The

Chennai, summing up to its

District, the hotel offers an

proposition. The Clarion Chen-

landscaping elements of water

portfolio of 26 hotels across 19

easy accessibility to most of

nai hotel has been designed

denote the contemporary styl-

keeping in mind all details for

ish, yet classical look in the

convenience to delight both –

hotel.

business as well as domestic traveller.”

All the rooms have been aesthetically designed and fur-

The hotel is a boutique

nished with ultra-modern facil-

property with spacious guest

ities like mini bar, 52” LED

rooms, warm friendly service

television, Wi-fi, electronic safe

and outstanding food & bever-

lock, and tea/coffee making fa-

age facilities. Built in contem-

cility. The en-suite bathrooms

porary style, the hotel offers

come equipped with 24 hour

modern amenities to ensure

hot/cold water, bathrobes, and

pleasant stay for travellers.

luxury bathroom amenities. by TNH DESK

Radisson Re-imagined –The New Hi Tech World of Radisson

ate personalized itineraries,

trieval.

access the local hotspots, cre-

Whether they’re looking

Radisson hotels, a part of Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group, is currently testing out enhancements to simplify the guest experience for tech-savvy customers from the point of reservation through check out.

ate customer service requests,

to request housekeeping serv-

stream live music and check

ices, order room service, book

flight

a spa appointment, or request

other user-friendly features.

information,

among

a taxi, it’s as easy clicking a

According to Radisson,

ability to make a request

button on their virtual device

the app, which has 12 groups

are part of a larger

within twelve groups of cus-

anytime, from anywhere.

of customer service options,

pilot program, intro-

tomer service options.

he tech components

duced to test the Radisson Re-

Meeting and event plan-

can be used in lieu of the in-

The new Radisson app

ners will take a particular lik-

room customer service direc-

which

uses mobile, location-based

ing to iConcierge, as it allows

tory. This includes amenities

focuses on enhanced guest

technology to deliver hotel

organizers to virtually host

like requesting housekeeping

touch points. The application,

services and amenities and

personalized agendas, create

services, ordering room serv-

appropriately

provides guests with the ideal

menus, request transporta-

ice, booking a spa appoint-

Imagined

J ANU ARY 2 01 4 |

the front desk for quick re-

concept,

named

iConcierge, is a virtual tool

travel

Guests

tion, send instant messages to

ment or requesting a taxi.

that allows guests to create

enter their credit card infor-

onsite groups, and portably

Unlike the in-room customer

personalized itineraries, ac-

mation online and check-in

communicate with hotel staff

service directory, the mobility

cess the local scene, create

within 24 hours in advance of

for immediate requests and re-

factor allows the guest to do

customer service requests,

their stay. They will then be

quirements.

this from anywhere at any

companion.

stream live music, check flight

given a confirmation email

The program also offers

information, and much more.

containing a bar code unique

the iConcierge mobile app. The

Radisson believes this

In lieu of flipping through the

to their reservation. When the

app, designed to help guests

app will be particularly use-

in-room customer service di-

guests arrive at the property,

make the most of their experi-

ful to meeting and event plan-

rectory, guests now have the

they can collect their key at

ence, allows consumers to cre-

ners.

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY

time of day.

by TNH DESK

International News

Accor continues the expansion of Novotel network in India

three significant openings during the year. With brand Novo-

tality technology innovations.”

unique Indian & international

Located close to the com-

flavours with a creative twist;

new

mercial and retail precincts of

Soak - mesmerizing outdoor

standards in the hospitality in-

the city, Novotel Pune will offer

pool bar on 2nd floor of the

dustry and hopes to introduce

223 guest rooms including 14

hotel; Bar-Code a sophisti-

new segments and new mar-

suites, meeting spaces aug-

cated and graceful lobby

tel,

Accor

has

set

kets especially for MICE, be-

mented by the latest technol-

lounge; and Crust - the Patis-

The chain opened three Novotel properties in Q4 of 2013, with Novotel Pune being the latest one.

sides leisure. Novotel in India

ogy and interesting dining and

serie & Deli for oven-fresh de-

has firmly established itself as

recreation options. This is the

lights and sweet indulgences.

ccor has made the

one of the most respected

8th Novotel property in India.

significant expansion

hotel brands today. The prop-

Featuring the next genera-

Meeting @ Novotel

of its Novotel hotel

erties have been commended

tion of Novotel guest rooms,

Novotel Pune will further

network across India. The

by guests and received recog-

Novotel Pune incorporates

strengthen the brand’s grow-

world-class upper mid-scale

nition for the exceptional serv-

Contemporary design, flexibil-

ing MICE network. The prop-

Novotel

erty features flexible banquet

Pune provides guests with a

ity and technology.

offerings - occupying an area

comfortable environment and

of over 11,000 sq. ft. of indoor

the latest in-room amenities

and outdoor space, with a di-

suitable for guests traveling

visible Ballroom and six addi-

for both business and leisure.

tional meeting rooms. With

The hotel offers a variety of

such a range of facilities, Novo-

room types for every traveler

tel Pune presents a perfect

including 14 Suites, 12 Supe-

venue for a variety of events

rior

Premier

such as weddings, social ban-

Rooms, and 164 Standard

quets and conferences. The

rooms.

latest audio and visual equip-

Rooms,

brand from Accor continues to grow rapidly with a record opening of thress Novotel hotels in Q4 of 2013 – Novotel Goa Shrem Resort, Novotel Ahmedabad

and

recently,

Novotel Pune. This record performance is proving a growth engine in driving Accor hotel development around the region and helping Accor capture a growing share of travellers in the commercial and leisure dis-

ices.” He was speaking on the

ment supported by a highly

tricts of Goa, Ahmedabad and

occasion of the launch of Novo-

International cuisine: Enjoy

trained and well-dedicated

Pune.

tel Pune. “With the opening of

the simple pleasures

team on standby will the en-

Speaking on the expan-

Novotel Pune, Accor continues

Designed for the international

sure success of all events.

sion, Jean-Michel Cassé, Sen-

to break away from the tradi-

palette, Novotel Pune will offer

Novotel Pune brings innova-

ior Vice President, Operations,

tion and revolutionizes the ex-

five food and beverage options

tion to the city with its Eureka

Accor India says, “Accor is fo-

perience

‘Virtual

– The Square - Novotels’ Sig-

meeting room concept. Eureka

cused on India as a core

Concierge’ facility. This will en-

nature all day dining restau-

meeting rooms offer uninter-

growth market and the expan-

able Novotel properties to en-

rant will feature an open show

rupted meetings with a facility

sion of the Novotel brand in

hance guest experiences and

kitchen and interactive dining

to reconfigure the meeting lay-

2013 has been positive with

become a benchmark in hospi-

experience; Fuzion, offering

out.

by TNH DESK

J ANUA R Y 2014|

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY

with

Hospitality News

‘Flashflood has pushed development 2-3 years back in Uttarakhand’ 2013 has been a year of setbacks and challenges for Uttarakhand tourism industry. spoke to S. P. Kochhar Chairman & MD, Madhuban Group of Hotels to know how the flash flood has affected the industry, and more. Prem Kumar

be done as soon as possible. The exemption on VAT & Lux-

Key challenges

ury tax on the hotels is a wel-

Uttarakhand

economy

coming gesture for all the

mainly dependent on tourism.

that a number of small hotels

hoteliers and the people of Ut-

The four sacred religious

and guest houses have closed

tarakhand who make their liv-

places popularly known as

ospitality and

down, although there are no

ing through tourism all around

'Chardham' are considered to

official figures yet. Those still

the year. With these exemp-

be the backbone of the tourism

to-

gether account

in operation, have lowered

tions, hoteliers can further

industry in the state. “The

for one-fourth of state’s rev-

their rates or are giving hefty

offer

packages,

damaged caused by the flood

enue apart from being one of

discounts to sustain opera-

schemes, etc. as to increase

has pushed the development

the key sources of employment

tions.

the tourist inflow drastically in

and growth by at least 2-3

the coming months. Ultimately,

years back, and it will take

in the state,” said Kochhar,

“The devastating floods in

who is also the President of

Uttarakhand have hampered

The devastating floods in Uttarakhand have hampered the booming tourist industry in the picturesque mountainous state, and it will take a long time to come out of this crisis.

“

S. P. Kochhar Chairman & MD, Madhuban Group of Hotels Hotels & Restaurants Associa-

the booming tourist industry in

attractive

that will help them to retain

long time to bring back things

their prime livelihood and re-

to normal situation” said

cover the severe damages oc-

Kochhar. “There is a sharp de-

curred during the calamity,”

cline in Tourists in the non af-

said Kochhar.

fected areas of the State; with

In order to save the state

this the hotels are running in

tourism industry from such

huge losses throughout the

calamity in future, “Precise

season. If we are really taking

early warning is the first step.

about the challenges, then to

Next is preparedness on the

bring back tourist from across

tion of Uttarakhand and that of

the picturesque mountainous

ground. Coordination of all

the nation as well as from

Doon Valley Hotel & Restau-

state, and it will take a long

central agencies including

abroad to the sate and to re-

rant Association. He further

time to come out of this crisis.

armed forces with the state

gain the confidence of the peo-

said, “The ruins caused by the

The business of MICE has also

government agencies should

ple to enjoy the celestial

floods and landslides have hurt

show a slowdown in the area,

be faster and smoother. Ad-

beauty of Uttarakhand have become challenge for us.”

the Uttarakhand tourism in-

Hotel with the conference facil-

vance warning is of no use if it

dustry in every possible way.

ities are finding it tough to con-

is not conveyed to people in

2013 has been a year of set-

vince companies to hold their

disaster-prone

areas

and

Uttarakhand economy is mainly dependent on tourism.

backs and challenges for us

Meetings. The slowdown is

quick steps are not taken to

The four sacred religious

however we are optimistic and

also impacting the plans of

save their lives,” said Kochhar,

places know as the chardham

look forward to rejuvenated in-

middle and lower class travel-

adding, “We have to develop a

is considered to be the back-

flux in the coming years.”

ers who make a bulk of their

system

communicating

bone of the tourism industry in

business in this area,” said

warnings to people in the dis-

the state. The damaged caused

Kochhar.

The recent floods in Uttarakhand have devastated towns like Kedarnath, but their

aster-prone areas through

by the flood has pushed the de-

The state government has

mass media, public address

velopment and growth by at

impact are being felt in popu-

already taken initiatives to un-

systems, community radio and

least three years and it will

lar hill stations like Mussoorie,

dertake the massive work of

religious places. Evacuated

take lot of time to put thing

Manali, Shimla, Dharamshala

reconstruction,

repairing

people need to be taken to

things back in order. To regain

and Nainital, where hotels are

power, roads, water and other

safer places away from the vul-

the confidence of the tourist

reporting ridiculously low oc-

important

nerable region. Besides edu-

our member hotels have re-

infrastructural

cupancy levels despite offering

needs in priority, so that the

cating people about safety

duced their fares to a very

huge cuts in tariffs .

tourist from across the nation

measures to be taken during

large extent and are offering

as well as abroad should feel

disasters, the State Disaster

special economy packages

The state has close to 400

J ANU ARY 2 01 4 |

shelters houses in disasterprone areas.”

tourism

“H

>>>

Uttarakhand. “The process need to be speedy and should

hotels, guest houses and

comfortable once again to

Management Authority should

for the advantage of the

dharamshalas. It is projected

enjoy the celestial beauty of

also have shelters and flood

tourists.

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY

Hospitality News

Discount bonanza for senior citizens Vishakhapatnam’s Budhil Park is racing ahead of others by offering good discounts to senior citizens and rustling up Andhra cuisine.

cent subsidy on food to senior

travellers. The hotel group is

citizens. There is 10 per cent

planning to set its foot in Hy-

reduction on sightseeing facili-

derabad in the coming period.

ties for tourists in the city. We

The General Manager said, “With an investment of Rs 50

Snapshot

crore, we would kick-start our

Budhil Park specializes in:

hospitality venture with 60 rooms in Hyderabad. We are

•Andhra cuisine, South Indian buffet lunch. •Affordable room rates. •Hygiene facilities. •Heavy discounts for senior citizens.

keeping our options open to foray in Tirupati. Our guests comprise around 70 per cent domestic tourists on business tours to Vishakhapatnam. Our hotel group has a tie-up with Kabaddi Association to bring sportsmen from global coun-

Y Srinivasa Rao General Manager Budhil Park

Swaati Chaudhury

have the best price in terms of

tries. We are looking ahead to

South Indian buffet, Budhil

service, interiors, hygiene and

welcome 30 per cent more

Park is the best destination.

quality of food served in our

tourists this year and most

tanding at a strategic

The hospitality group with

hotel as compared to five-star

leisure tourists are from Ben-

location in the steel city

41 well-furnished rooms and

haunts in the city. The hotel

gal.” The hotel group is growing

of Vishakhapatnam is

banquet facilities has lined up

boasts in having around 84 per

at a rate of 15 per cent year-on-

the three-star establishment of

better discount offers. Y Srini-

cent occupancy round the

year.

Budhil Park that has been in

vasa Rao, General Manager,

year.” The room tariff for an in-

As of now, there are a few

operation for over three years.

Budhil Park informed, “Trav-

dividual may come to Rs 2,950

star properties in Vishakhapat-

For tourists looking for five-

ellers are open to 20 per cent

per day.

nam than the tourists flow. Rao

star comfort at a three-star

discount on room fare and our

Besides, there are two con-

also added, “The room rates

hotel and have a yen for delec-

hotel is offering 25 per cent

ference halls and board room

are steeper than Hyderabad

table Andhra cuisine and

slash on room rates and 10 per

for multi-purpose use of MICE

owing to demand-supply gap.”

Hotel Management Services

Bathinda, Surat, Darjeeling,

Phagwara

Pvt. Ltd.

Delhi, Indore, Jamshedpur,

All the above hotels also

This feat was made possi-

Kakinada, Kashipur, Kolkata,

mean that Best Western India

ble with the chain adding 8 new

Lucknow, Madurai, Mumbai,

now have over two thousand

Hotels within the last 2 months

Visakhapatnam, Zirakpur, 2

six hundred rooms to provide

Best Western India’s portfolio becomes more than 50 hotels

itself.

Best Western India has become one of the largest hotel chains in India. The chain has shifted its corporate office to New Delhi. est

Global

Hospitality

each at Gurgaon, Goa & Hyder-

across various categories to

abad and 3 in Bangalore

the discerning Indian traveler.

major also shifted its Corpo-

Hotels that are under the

rate Office to India’s capital

final stages of pre-opening and

Western as the largest mid-

New Delhi from Bangalore.

conversion include two at Am-

market

This also establishes Best international

hotel

India

Best Western in India has three

bala, Bangalore, Bhubaneswar,

brand in the country, which is a

(BWI) has become the

hotel categories Best Western

Jalandhar, Kanpur, Ludhiana,

stupendous achievement for

largest international

(3 Star), Best Western (4 Star),

Nakodar, Pathankot, Tirupathi

Cabana, given that it started

hotel chain in the country in

Best Western Premier (5 Star).

and Zirakpur (second prop-

Best Western India with only 6

the mid-market segment, with

The year 2013 also has

erty), and hotels are also com-

hotels in 2008.

Western

The

52 Hotels in operation and

seen the chain achieve more

ing

Amritsar,

With a goal to reach 100

under development in India.

than 100 percent growth in a

Aurangabad, Bangalore, Goa,

hotels in India by 2017, this

Part of The World’s Largest

single year. Hotels that are Op-

Jalandhar,

growth

Hotel Chain® Best Western in

erational and “On Line” in-

Kolkata, Mukteshwar, Navi

Chains commitment to the

India is managed by Cabana

clude one at Amritsar, Baddi,

Mumbai, Nawashahar, and

India market.

Kodaikanal

J ANU A RY 2014|

also

signifies

the

by TNH DESK

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY

Spa Update

R The Spa Latest addition to Radisson Blu Plaza Delhi Spread across 20,000 square feet of space, the luxurious R The Spa is the latest addition to Radisson Blu Plaza Delhi.

esigned as a three level affair,

the Spa boasts a state of art

The second level of the Spa is all

level for some high quality pampering.

fitness studio and yoga centre,

about Relaxation. The mind naturally

several private suites for massage and

grows calm, when the environment is –

therapeutic treatments, as well as a

mood lightening , soft instrumental

world class beauty salon and barber

music and the scent of fresh` flowers

shop. Walking into the Spa, the first

definitely tend to have that effect.. The

thing to strike you is the sense of peace

Spa offers a range of therapeutic treat-

and serenity; softly muted voices, a gen-

ments in a lavish artistic setting; and

tle fragrance of rose petals, smiling

it’s so much more than an oil massage.

faces and a bubbling fountain to set it

There are two single rooms (Aro-

off…ah the mind begins to calm al-

maveda and Kalpaveda), four couple

ready.

rooms (Rudra, Moksha, Mandarin and

To be a holistic rejuvenating expe-

Iris), as well as three special couple

rience, a Spa needs to cater to each and

suites-The Orchid Suite, TheWhite

every aspect of the body and mind, the

Lotus Suite and The Frangipani Suite.

way that R The Spa does. Guests, who

cise; the body works on the principle of

Yoga studio is also top of the line and

The couple suite are an excellent option

walk-in tired and stressed leave feeling

‘use it or lose it’ . to this purpose , the

exercise routines are custom designed

if you want to spend some quality time

relaxed, calm, supple, and above all

Spa offers both Western style exercise

to the last detail especially for you-a

with your loved one; there are a few

quiet joyful. Keeping all these in mind,

in the form of state of art gymnasium

slow, meaningful stretch that works

better ways to renew your connection

R The Spa was designed around three

and fitness centre , as well as, a Yoga

every muscle is so much better than a

than by a shared massage experience

concepts:

studio for those on the lookout for a

frantic workout. To refresh yourself

at this Spa. and they have several pack-

Rejuvenation, Relaxation

and Replenishment.

more holistic exercise routine. The fit-

post the work out (can you feel the

ages for this season as well, including

The first level of the Spa is all about

ness centre (equipped with the latest in

glow?), the Spa invites you to take a dip

one with chocolate body wrap(which

Rejuvenation. In most cases, the reason

Techno Gym equipment)is staffed by

into their specially designed pool, or

feels simply divine and leaves your skin

for that stiff shoulder or aching back is

experts, quietly confident and unobtru-

perhaps a nutritious snack at their Spa

glowing with health).

either due to stress or a lack of exer-

sive ,the way a trainer should be . The

Bar instead, before you move down one

J ANUARY 20 1 4|

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY

R The Spa is all about the guest;

Spa Update

and a massage begins with your thera-

The third and final level houses the

pist making you feel like royalty. Luxu-

Replenishment section of the Spa,

rious settings and extraordinarily

where you are invited to sit back and

opulent private rooms notwithstanding,

relax while the Spa’s team of skin,

itis the professionalism of the therapy

body and hair experts undoes the dam-

that’s the key to this feeling . After

age done by a crowded city and hectic

you’ve changed (and perhaps spent

schedule. There are private sections

some time in the steam room or sauna),

for men and women with a wide range

the first thing on the menu is a soothing

of services, from basic grooming on-

foot bath and massage before you begin

ward. Foot reflexology, pedicures and

with series of treatments, from Deep

manicures are one way to go; or per-

tissue to Anti stress and Acupressure ;

haps some skin therapies instead. The

these treatments have been specially

Caviar and Pearl Age defying Mask

designed to leave your body and skin

(improves skin elasticity, and imparts

glowing and your mind utterly relaxed.

a subtle glow)is particularly good,

One of the Signature treatments at this

while the Lumiere Face Therapy is an

Spa is their Balinese massage ; begin-

Having spent time with your thera-

ning with a gentle body rub and ending only after the entire body has been tended to, this massage is an hour (or

(tropical shower is a definite must try)

excellent option too. And if you have

pist and their skillfully healing touch

and an Infinity Tub for complete relax-

the time, try the Oxygenating Sea

and having completely forgotten every-

ation, while The White lotus offers a

Mask as well.

thing but the feel of your body coming

Vichy shower and a Hamam bed for

The salons also have a wide range

more) long experience like few others.

alive, you will be gently guided to the

those stressed muscles, complete with

of beauty and therapy products on

It leaves you with a sensation of ex-

shower or a long soak in the tub; more

rehydration and detoxifying treatments

offer, for that extended treatment serv-

treme well being; your body is warm

fragrant oils and unguents, while the

as well. Post your therapy session, per-

ice that follows you home. This level,

and energized and the oils that they use

soft tones of a sitar lull you closer and

haps a cup of herbal tea? Warm, invig-

like all of the others, is simply top ofthe

(jasmine and sandal wood for instance)

closer to Nirvana.

orating…familiar; like waking up on a

line; the most modern beauty treat-

cold winter morning and realizing that

ments in the most serene environment

the Universe does indeed love you.

possible.

smell wonderful and leave your skin absolutely glowing with health.

The Orchid and the Frangipani suites both offer an Experience shower

J ANUA R Y 2014|

by TNH DESK

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY

Spa Updates

LEVO celebrates its bond with celebrity make-up artist Vidya Tikari LEVO Spalon , premium

serene, tranquil, and contem-

world-class luxury has part-

porary space designed to

nered with renowned make-up

soothe the senses, classifies

expert Vidya Tikari to provide

Levo. Special massages de-

world class services to its

stress your body and stimulate

clients in Gurgaon. LEVO re-

your senses. An array of face

cently celebrated its associa-

and body treatments replenish

tion with celebrity make-up

your soul. The hand and foot

artist Vidya Tikari at glittering

care line with pleasant fra-

event.

grances and precious active

The collaboration promises a comprehensive groom-

ingredients assure the ideal manicure and pedicure.

ing experience like none other.

Indulge in holistic thera-

Set-up in 2010, LEVO provides

pies and massages which com-

unparalleled

over

bine the very best of eastern

sprawling 10,000 sq. ft of luxu-

service

and western practices. Leave

rious bliss. Expert hands, ad-

the everyday stress of your life

vanced

and

behind, take some time out

international products help

and experience a serene and

techniques

you relax and rejuvenate. A

truly unforgettable experience

highly trained team of experts

at levo.

led by International hair stylist

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Levo treats your senses

Mila Parakhina create magic

providing a pleasurable, indul-

with cuts, color, style and tex-

gent and memorable experi-

tures.

ence. Vidya at Levo makes

In a first, Levo offers high-

Levo a one stop-shop for all

quality eyelash extensions by

your needs. The Levo touch

Novalash usa, like to celebrity

will leave you wanting more,â&#x20AC;?

clients such as Oprah Winfrey,

said Pranita Baveja, CEO,

Beyonce, Heidi Klum, Kim

Levo Spalon.

Kardashian amongst others. A

J ANU ARY 2 01 4 |

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY

by TNH DESK

International News

Oman positioning itself as adventure destination Targeting the high-end Indian travellers, sailing being one of the prime focus activities. Anand Shah

novative and fun platform. The

the Bollywood association that

ular landscapes, unspoilt na-

event was a roaring success

we undertook. Film tourism is

ture, fascinating cultures and

for us as it was very well at-

on the rise and we wanted to

traditions are also gaining

tended by top tour operators

promote

destination

popularity. “Self drive destina-

and travel agents and they en-

through the medium of films.

our

tions are also becoming popu-

joyed their day out in the sea.”

Associating Oman with a big

lar and Oman offers tourists

According to her, the year

budget star cast movie like

all of these experiences. “Des-

2013 was excellent for Oman

‘Once Upon A Time In Mumbai

tination Weddings” is another

and the country recorded

Dobaara’ was a strategic and

concept on the rise and we

man, a destination

Oman said, “The best way to

three-fold increase in brand

successful campaign for us.

have just entered this market

which has success-

explore the stunning coastline

visibility in India. She said,

The star cast of the movie

and look at promoting it ag-

resentative,

Sultanate

fully build its reputa-

of Oman is through sea and

“After focusing on Tier I cities

spoke extensively about the

gressively

tion as high end destination

what better than sailing. It is

of India for last 3 years, this

beauty of the destination at a

years,” adds Sheerazi.

for Indian travellers is now

a major activity in Oman and

year was a milestone for us as

joint press conference held be-

To assist travel agents for

getting more specific with tar-

we want to highlight this fea-

we penetrated effectively into

tween Oman tourism and Bal-

selling Oman among Indians

get audience through segmen-

ture and promote it as a new

the Tier II cities of India like

aji Telefilms. This association

as sailing destination, the

tation. Post the ‘Once Upon a Time in Mumbai Dobaara’ movie, the destination has gained popularity among Indian audience for natural attraction, shopping and spa for honeymooners. The destination is now betting itself as a ‘Sailing’ destination for adventure lovers. To kick-start the promotions in the country, Oman recently conducted a sailing event in Mumbai for travel trade in association with Oman Sail. Through this

Know about Oman Sail In keeping with the Sultanate’s 2020 vision to increase tourism to Oman, Oman Sail was formed in 2009. Oman Sail is rekindling Oman’s maritime heritage through a series of activities and initiatives which bring Oman to the forefront globally. Oman Sail offers an extensive range of beginner and advanced sailing courses at each of its three sailing schools; Marina Bandar Al Rowdha, Mussanah and The Wave, Muscat. It also conducts water sports activities like kayaking, banana boat rides, wake boarding, water skiing in Oman.

event, the travel agents and

coming

lead to a massive branding

tourism board highlighted few

campaign and helped us reach

ground handlers from Oman.

a diverse and wide audience in

Listed operators were Zahara

India. We are also tapping the

Tours, Tour Oman, Oman

destination wedding segment

World Tourism, Bahwan Trav-

and conductedrecce’s for wed-

els, Gulf Ventures and Mezoon

ding planners. Their response

Travel LLC. These ground

to the destination has been

handlers will provide all the

very positive and encouraging

required assistance to Indian

and we feel this segment will

agents through visa require-

pick up for Oman.”

ments, travel, hotel accommo-

Talking about the trends

dations, activities, transfers,

in 2013, Sheerazi informed

etc. According to Sheerazi,

that shorter haul destinations

Oman is a sailor’s delight as

with direct connectivity were

it boasts of nearly 3,165 kms of coastline. “Sinbad the

nations with one-two layovers.

Sailor is also believed to

Pune. We conducted road-

Destinations that offer off-beat

have originated from Oman;

shows in early September in

experiences and a quieter,

hence it comes as no sur-

these 3 cities and received

more discreet style of luxury

prise that Oman has a rich

Ahmedabad, Hyderabad and

perience of sailing without

the beauty of Oman. The ob-

going all the way to Oman.

jective behind the event was to provide the trade partners an

Talking about the sailing

the

preferred to longer haul destiand thrilling way to discover

operators got a first hand ex-

as an activity for travellers,

experience of sailing and also

good attendance in each city.

are now preferred. Destina-

sailing

Lubaina Sheerazi, India Rep-

to network with them on an in-

Another major milestone was

tions known for their spectac-

Sheerazi.

J ANUA R Y 2014|

history,”

informs

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY

Analysis

2014: Year of being cautiously optimistic! Adopting tactical business strategies, inducting social media in business, implementing innovative marketing strategies or even adapting to the ever-changing world of travel; Indian travel operators are applying every possible strategy to get it right in 2014. Anand Shah

emerged from a recent survey

tation. Travel providers are

discerning

oing against the mul-

that TripAdvisor carried out,

packing all the ‘P’s to get max-

would like to add multiple

tiple

is that 48 per cent travellers

imum number of travellers at-

facets to our destination, try-

predications

about the slowdown

believed Air Asia's entry into

tention and covert them into

ing to promote it to as diverse

the Indian market will create a

customers. Tourism boards

a clientele as possible.

India proved yet again that the

competitive environment and

are adopting to market trends

travel sector is always on the

the airfares will go down tem-

and conditions to make their

our product in line with preva-

move. Rupee played a spoil-

porarily.”

products apt for Indian trav-

lent trends. To entice budget

Albert

ellers. For instance, Atout

conscious travellers, we will

Dias, Co-Founder, Musafir.com

France is bringing off-beat

present value for money op-

at the same time boosting the

said, “We believe that the new

destinations on board in 2014.

tions and present economical

short-haul outbound, inbound

carriers will help boost domes-

Catherine

accommodation and sightsee-

and domestic travel market.

tic tourism, especially if they

Atout France India said, “We

Adding

further,

Oden,

Director,

ing options.”

Moving forward, the year 2014

open up new routes.We do ex-

is looking full of opportunities

pect to see some sparring on

MAGIC word for 2014

and healthy bottom-lines to

prices and commissions which

the industry leaders. Despite

will benefit consumers and

this optimism, the industry op-

agents, respectively; however

“You want new business; stop doing the same old things over and over again. Put yourself out there. Travel the destination that you sell, meet the people from that destination, talk, argue, discuss, dream. When you know better, you will do better. Start with yourself. Invest in yourself. Your customer is a person, not just a traveller. In South Africa we have a saying if you want to go fast, go alone, if you want to go further, go together. Pick partners that will go the distance, because eventually partners become like family that you selected yourself,” says Slabber. “Focus on service and innovation. The next generation of Indian travelers is far more discerning and aspirational than the current,” recommends Dias. Rate-cutting is not the way to go. Instead, educate your customers that what you pay is what you get. Simply having the same product as your nearest competitor and offering at a lower rate only results in declining quality. The better strategy is to differentiate your offering/ product. Give them something experiential… something that you alone are offering,” advices Sethaphan Buddhani, Director, Tourism Authority of Thailand, Mumbai

erators need to evolve, adopt

it’s unlikely that we’ll have an

to technology, bring in ‘value

all-out price war because it

for money’ products, explore

clearly isn’t sustainable.”

new revenue streams and set

Thus, 2014 would be much

a standard of service to be-

tougher and rougher for the

come the ‘King of Good Times’

airlines operating in Indian

even during bad turbulence.

skies. The airlines will be

Pricing will be the key

and come out of the huge loss brackets through strategic

Be it the AirAsia India or

revenue management, cost ef-

TATA-SIA airline, the Indian

fectiveness, route manage-

aviation outlook for 2014 is

ment, adopting to gain more

looking brighter and better.

non-ancillary revenue, strong

According to Nikhil Ganju,

distribution channels, etc.

Country Manager – India, Tri-

With business margins shrink-

pAdvisor; the entry of new air-

ing, the airlines should start

lines will bring in interesting

‘Flying for Everyone’ bringing

times in the Indian aviation

‘A breathe of fresh air’ in In-

sector. He said, “More airlines

dian aviation and making pas-

will give added options to the

sengers experience the ‘Joy of

end consumers to choose from

Flying’. would like to intensify our

and to a certain extent push

J ANU ARY 2 01 4 |

We will look to adapting

long-haul outbound travel but

more passionate to perform

Albert Dias Co - founder, Marketing and Technology Director, Musafir.com

in travel and tourism sector,

sport in 2013 by impact the

Sethaphan Buddhani Director, Tourism Authority of Thailand Mumbai

travellers.

Giving a perspective from

the airfares down. In fact, one

Game Plan

focus on promoting France as

the eastern side of the world

of the key findings to have

Be it price, product or presen-

an experiential destination to

on India, Mischa Mannix-Opie,

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY

Analysis

Hanneli Slabber Country Manager India, South African Tourism

market for Tourism New

young adventurer market, the

Zealand in its new three Year

romance and luxury market,

ing excellent service and in-

Marketing

which

familes and the MICE market.”

vesting

took effect on 1 July, 2013. This

Despite facing a strong

Strategy

fying our products, maintainin

innovative

marketing and distribution

will see Tourism New Zealand

challenge of having minimal

channels. The Indian market

nearly quadrupling its invest-

direct flights from India, South

is on a growth trajectory and

ment in the India market over

Africa has come up as a pre-

we expect tremendous double

the next three years and in-

ferred destination for more

digit growth in the Indian ar-

creasing its marketing pro-

and more Indians. Talking

rival figures. In 2014 we are

grammes across advertising

about the expectations for

hopeful of terrific growth from

campaigns, travel trade devel-

2014, Hanneli Slabber, Coun-

mini-metros and tier II mar-

Mischa Mannix-Opie Regional Manager SSEA, Tourism New Zealand

opment and public relations

try Manager – India, South

kets in India and taking that

activities. We plan to develop

African Tourism said, “The

into consideration, we have

more strategic partnerships

travel patterns and consumer

aligned our key marketing ini-

Regional Manager – SSEA,

with the trade sector in 2014.

preferences will continue to

tiatives for next year in these

Tourism New Zealand said,

We will also promote ‘100%

change in 2014, basis which,

markets as well apart from

“India is a priority emerging

Pure New Zealand’ to the

we will focus towards diversi-

metros.”

Connemara,

Burren,

of a year-long programme of

Galway Bay and Kerry. It’s a

festivals, events and gather-

Now showing – the Northern Lights at Inishowen, Ireland The Northern Lights have arrived over Ireland, promising the most impressive display in years. Sky watchers know to get the best view of this ultimate solar phenomenon you go north. In Ireland, that means the Inishowen Peninsula.

The

landscape that tells ancient

ings in every part of the

stories through its many

country; Tourism Ireland has

Stone Age monuments. But

an extensive programme of

Inishowen

will

promotions under way to

also find traditional music

highlight ‘The Gathering Ire-

travellers

and banter galore behind the

land 2013’ around the world,

brightly glowing windows of

working closely with the ‘Gathering’ project team.

t this untamed edge

plenty of time to be part of

a family pub; in these parts

the excitement.

the best way to brighten win-

Ireland,

the

earthly attractions

“Inishowen’s veteran bo-

are a little bit of heaven too. There is something surreal

ter nights. Only natural on a

Short-Stay

realis buffs know that a

peninsula edged with miles

Scheme

Donegal beach is one of the

of wave-lashed cliffs and

•The Short-Stay Visa Waiver

about a place illuminated by

best places to bring the cam-

beaches seemingly undiscov-

Scheme was introduced in July

night under the eerie glow of

era and flask of coffee bun-

ered by man, dolphins cavort

2011 to encourage tourism to

the aurora borealis, while by

dle up and get set to be

just offshore, sharks lurk in

the island of Ireland.

day, clearly visible from land,

blown away.

whales leap in the Atlantic

nessed only once in a life-

swells.

time, from a lonely hilltop or

Medieval castles too, still

Stargazers tracking the

Even if wit-

the depths and sea birds wheel above.

Visa

Waiver

•The scheme allows visitors from India who have a valid UK C general visa to visit

village street, the Northern

stand sentinel; powerful re-

Ireland without the need for a

sun say the conditions for

Lights

unforgettable’

minders of legendary days of

separate Irish Visa.

are

the aurora borealis are the

said Beena Menon, Repre-

clans and chieftains. Imagine

most favourable in over a

sentative India, Tourism Ire-

watching

Northern

requires a once validation in

decade, due to a peak in

land.

Lights from these mysterious

the UK for the UK C general

sites.

visa before it can be used to

the

•The visa waiver scheme

solar flares. The experts pre-

Inishowen sits at the

dict that Northern Lights will

northern section of the Ire-

be shimmering over Irish

land’s Wild Atlantic Way,

The

skies for weeks and that the

which stretches for 2,500km

2013

Ireland within the time remain-

aurora borealis should be at

along the western seaboard

‘The Gathering Ireland 2013’

ing on their current UK 180

its best between now and the

from Donegal to Cork in the

is Ireland’s biggest ever

day leave to remain.

March

south, through regions like

tourism initiative, consisting

equinox,

offering

visit Ireland. Gathering

Ireland

•Visitors must travel to

J A NUA R Y 2014|

by TNH DESK

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY

International News

New UK visa rules to increase UAE tourists by 40% in 2020

by global interest in the London Olympics, the UK enjoyed a record year for tourism last year with US$30.46 billion injected into the economy from overseas visitors, of which US$1.97 billion came from the

UK tourism to benefit from launch of visa waiver initiative for high-spending UAE, Oman and Qatar nationals; increased participation from British exhibitors expected at Arabian Travel Market 2014.

GCC countries. Visitors from the GCC are also

among

the

highest

spenders, with an average of US$3,417 per person per visit

eed Travel Exhibi-

tions, organiser of

visited destination by UAE

the Arabian Travel

“London is a perennial

Market (ATM), which will be

favourite among GCC trav-

“The 37% increase in visi-

held at the Dubai Interna-

ellers who flock to the capital

tors that VisitBritian an-

tional Convention & Exhibi-

in the summer months in

nounced from last year, has

tion Centre from 5-8 May

search of cooler temperatures

the

news,

residents with the number of

possibility

being

visits doubling in the last decade. “The UK and the UAE share very close ties and Lon-

2014, is anticipating a surge of

as well as to take advantage

dwarfed by this visa waiver

don has always been a popu-

exhibition enquiries from UK

of the fantastic shopping, en-

programme, with the initiative

lar

destination

for

UAE

based travel and hospitality

tertainment options and lux-

fre-

citizens, as well as visitors

companies following the re-

ury hotel accommodation.

quent short breaks from the

from Oman and Qatar. Lifting

VisitBritain’s (The British

region.”

the visa requirements will

John Calthorpe, MD, Pavilion Expo Limited, the organiser of the UK Pavillion at ATM

“ATM 2014 will see the biggest and most popular UK Pavilion to date - 144 square metres and 34 exhibiting companies, with London and Scotland being two of the most active participants, but we are hoping add other UK cities.”

encouraging

government-backed national

The UK Pavilion is also in-

allow for increased travel op-

tourism agency) 2020 forecast

creasing year on year in

portunities benefiting numer-

increase of up to 40% more

terms of size and exhibitors.

ous sectors such as travel,

UAE tourists choosing to

“ATM 2014 will see the

hospitality, retail and enter-

spend time in the city, is great

biggest and most popular UK

tainment,” commented De-

news for UK tourism,” said

Pavilion to date - 144 square

brah

Mark Walsh, Portfolio Direc-

metres and 34 exhibiting com-

Manager of the five-star May-

tor, Reed Travel Exhibitions,

panies. London and Scotland

fair situated boutique hotel,

the organiser of ATM 2014.

are two of most active partici-

DUKES London.

“Following the announce-

pants but we are hoping add

ment we have already re-

other

ceived a number of enquiries

Calthorpe.

cities,”

said

Dhugga,

General

According to Walsh, outbound travel agencies and specialist tour operators in

cent lifting of visa require-

from UK-based companies

Information published on

the UAE, as well as the coun-

ments for UAE, Oman and

eager to capitalise on the op-

www.gov.uk reveals that visa

try’s carriers, Emirates and

Qatar nationals travelling to

portunity with first-time pres-

applications from UAE, Oman

Etihad Airways, are also ex-

the UK.

ence at ATM 2014, and we

and Qatar are growing year-

pected to place increased em-

expect increased participa-

on-year led by Kuwaiti visi-

phasis and marketing spend

Effective Q1 2014, citizens from

aforementioned

tion from a diverse cross-sec-

tors who accounted for more

on UK travel and routes once

three Gulf States visiting the

the

tion of tourism and hospitality

than 63,000 applications in

the new system is officially

UK, will be able to obtain a

companies representing the

2012, followed by the UAE

up-and-running.

free electronic visa waiver 48

UK as well,” added Walsh.

hours prior to their planned

J ANUARY 20 1 4|

and the UK is second most Mark Walsh, Portfolio Director, Reed Travel Exhibitions, the organiser of ATM 2014

According

John

(30,148), Qatar (20,490) and Oman (12,596).

The new visa waiver applies for short-term visits only

departure, which replaces the

Calthorpe, Managing Director,

with a six-month validity pe-

current

application

Pavilion Expo Limited, the or-

record 530,000 visitors from

riod, however those applying

process. The waiver is also set

ganiser of the UK Pavillion at

the GCC landed on British

to study in the UK or enter for

visa

VisitBritain

reports

to be extended to Kuwaiti na-

ATM, UK representation at

shores in 2012, representing a

business, will still need to

tionals later next year.

the show will be buoyed by the

6% increase on 2011. Boosted

apply for a visa.

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY

International News

Viva Voyages organizes ‘An Evening with Pashupati Area Development Trust and Nepal Tourism Board’ with their Nepal partners, Saraogi Nepal Viva Voyages organized an evening with Pashupati Area Development Trust and Nepal Tourism Board for their Nepal partners, Saraogi Nepal at the India Habitat Center, New Delhi on the 13th of December, 2013.

Cetana Abhiyan. A visionary and an inspiring guide for a large number of doctoral theses, he has published more than a dozen books and is the Editor of Samudaya. He is the vision behind promoting vegetarianism in Nepal and gave a heartfelt speech on Pashupatinath and how the Trust and all

Member- Secretary, Pashupati

government bodies are keen to

Area Development Trust said,

invite the Indian tourist into his

“Pashupatinath Temple is one

homeland.

of the most significant Hindu

P. P. Khanna, Representa-

temples of Shiva in the world.

tive, Association of Domestic

The temple serves as the seat

Tour

of the national deity, Lord

Nepal Tourism Board to work

Pashupatinath and is listed as

with ADTOI and launch exclu-

a UNESCO World Heritage

sive packages for ADTOI mem-

Sites. Such events will hope-

bers. ‘There are 800 million

fully see increased tourism

Indian domestic travelllers and

Operators

requested

traffic between both countries

if promoted well, Nepal can get

he event was attended

things, also because of the in-

and will strengthen bilateral

at least one percent i.e. 1 mil-

by more than 200

clusion of a learned Pundit who

relations.”

lion tourists from India,’ he

trade partners and

shared inputs on the signifi-

Addressing the agents at

media representatives. The

cance of the Pashupatinath

the event, Ms. Nandini Lahe

Subhash Goel, President,

said.

heads of travel associations

temple for Hindus. Guests were

Thapa, Senior Director, Nepal

Indian Association of Tour Op-

like ADTOI, IATO, TAAI, ETAA

welcomed with the traditional

Tourism Board said that NTB

erators said Nepal is a country

and SFTO and dignitaries from

tika ceremony. Holy Chandan

is ready to support the Indian

where Hinduism and Bud-

Nepal Tourism Board, Pashu-

taken from the Shivalinga from

travel trade to aggressively

dhism are practiced in their

pati Area Development Trust

the Pashupatinath Temple was

promote Nepal tourism in

true spirit. The country has

and the Embassy of Nepal sup-

used and an auspicious silk

India.

preserved its scenic beauty

ported and participated in

khada scraf was given as a

Dr. Tandon, a celebrated

and cultural heritage. Compar-

making the event meaningful.

mark of respect and friendship

culture expert and advocate of

ing Nepal’s beauty at par with

Pashupati Area Develop-

to the invitees. Khada symbol-

animal welfare was the VIP

that of Switzerland, Shri Goel

ment Trust announced the in-

izes the warmth of Nepali peo-

guest from Nepal. A PhD in

added that there being no visa

troduction of a special VIP

ple; it is a gesture of friendship

Cultural Study of Pashupatich-

and passport requirement cou-

Darshan facility for Indian citi-

and a personal connection with

hetra, he is an active supporter

pled with the geographical

zens at the Pashupati Nath

the host community. The first

of different socio religious and

proximity make it an even

Temple, Nepal. Now, thanks to

100 guests also got a Rudrak-

spiritual activities. He supports

more attractive destination.

this facility, Indian citizens will

sha garland from Nepal. All en-

presentation and developmen-

not need to stand in the long

joyed dance performances by a

tal works and holds many re-

Northern

queues for rushed darshanas.

dance troop on Shiva and

spected positions. Dr. Tandon

Agents Association of India

This will hold good even during

Ganesha songs and famous

is the Member Secretary –

and President of India Golf

festivals and on auspicious

Bollywood numbers.

Pashupati Development Trust

Tourism Association added

and Chairperson for The Soci-

that Nepal can be promoted as

days that attract devotees in large numbers.

Tsan

Prasad

Sharma,

Rajan Sehgal, Chairman, Region,

Travel

Third Secretary, Embassy of

ety for Prevention of Cruelty to

a fine destination for Golf

The event was unique not

Nepal appreciated the efforts of

Animals (SPCA). He is also

Tourism. He also said that ini-

only by being a probable first

Saraogi Nepal and congratu-

Chairperson for Superb Living

tiatives like this event will pro-

‘non

vegetarian’

lated them on this first ever ini-

– The Real Life Making Move-

mote religious tourism to the

evening, but among other

tiative. Dr. Govinda Tandon,

ment and Pashubali Nished

country also.

drink

–

J ANUA R Y 2014|

by TNH DESK

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY

Whereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s The Party

SKAL New Delhi Meet Skal New Delhi recently organized a fun- filled luncheon meeting for its members at ITC Maurya Hotel, New Delhi. On the occasion members enjoyed lavish foods and beverages.

JA NU ARY 2 0 14 |

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY

International News

New 'Amazing Thailand' campaign launched for 2014

-- their attitude, hospitality

Thai people, including their

tion in Thai art, history, hand-

and spirit. It is a core compo-

hospitality and lifestyle, as

icrafts, cuisine, spa and well-

nent of Thailand’s adherence

the selling point to attract vis-

ness and national festivals;

to the Marketing 3.0 concept

itors”

the blending of tradition and

whereby

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has launched a new campaign 'Amazing Thailand: It begins with the People'.

customers

are

source of what instills the

what makes brings people

that they are. Today’s trav-

charm of “Thai-ness.” The

from across the world return

ellers are choosing destina-

Kingdom of Thailand offers a

year after year to Amazing

unique experience for visitors.

Thailand, where “It begins

deeper needs for participa-

It is the people that make

with the people.”

speaks of the increas-

tion, creativity, community,

Thailand amazing. This is

The new tagline will be re-

ingly human-centric

and idealism.

what brought about, “Amazing

leased from now via all chan-

Thailand: It begins with the

nels of PR & Marketing mode

new

Runjuan Tongrut, Direc-

It deepens the emotional

tor TAT New Delhi said, “The

value of visiting the country,

campaign emphasizes the

one that is linked to its people

good characteristics of the

The campaign emphasizes the good characteristics of the Thai people, including their hospitality and lifestyle, as the selling point to attract visitors.

“

of TAT. Tourism Authority of

Thainess in the culture,

Thailand (TAT) – promoter of

art, food and way of life as it

Thailand’s tourism world-

has been embodied in the

wide, is partnering to show-

spirit of the people is commu-

case the best Thailand has to

nicated with this line. But

offer to India, and to project

what is Thainess? It is the

the image of Thailand as a

peace of mind found at the

luxury and high-end destina-

beaches, mountains, water-

tion for Indian travellers.

falls and islands; the dedica-

by TNH DESK

Global Sales Offices will spearhead efforts in enhancing international sales exposure.

Cox & Kings Ltd.

sidiary of Holiday-

people.”

Park Hotel Group establishes Global Sales Offices in India & Indonesia

Meininger, a subsidiary of Cox and Kings, has signe up for a new 802 bed hotel in Amsterdam; second in the city.

the

tions and services that satisfy his

Cox & Kings’ Meininger signs up new hotel in Amsterdam sub-

sought

modernity and the simplicity

dimensional human beings

Runjuan Tongrut, Director TAT New Delhi

of living with nature. This is

entiation,

aspect of Amazing Thailand.

eininger,

To discover the key differ-

treated as the complex, multi-

tagline

>>>

ark Hotel Group,

Travellers from India and In-

Delhi and Jakarta, we are

one of Asia Pacific’s

donesia constitute part of

able to provide better support

leading hospitality

the Group’s top 10 source

to global customers and part-

groups, has announced the

markets for its portfolio of

ners at a local level and to at-

hotels.

This is going to be the sec-

opening of its ninth Global

Ltd,

the

ond Meininger hotel in Ams-

Sales Office (GSO) in New

Mohd K Rafin, Chief Cor-

efficiently. This would also

education

and

terdam

Meininger

Delhi. The Group is also es-

porate Officer of Park Hotel

provide us the opportunity to

Leisure specialist activity

opened its first hotel in Ams-

tablishing its tenth Global

Group, said “The Group is ac-

better tap on the existing and

travel group, has signed a

terdam, City-West in 2012.

Sales office in Jakarta, In-

tively expanding across Asia

potential distribution chan-

donesia which is scheduled

Pacific and with the two new

nels in these countries. Ex-

to open by end of 2013.

Global Sales Offices in India

tending our network reach is

and Indonesia; it is an oppor-

in line with our strategy to

break

European

since

tend to their requests more

long term lease agreement for

Meininger is a unique hy-

the Amsteltower hotel. The

brid hotel product. The hotel

hotel, which is to be located

next to Amstel Station will be

near the Amstel Station in

for

Global Sales Offices is part

tunity for us to capitalize on

build

Amsterdam, will have 165

Meininger expansion in Eu-

of the Group’s strategy to ex-

these major markets.”

through effective communica-

important

step

The establishment of the

brand

preference

rooms and 802 beds. Holiday-

rope. Meininger’s aim is to

pand and strengthen the

Indonesia

tions and our commitment to

break is a subsidiary of

run an ``urban traveller’s

Group’s sales network and

have always been our key

deliver exceptional service

Prometheon Holdings (UK)

home’’ in every European

global

reach

source markets. With a dedi-

with love and passion.” He

Limited, which is a part of

capital city.

across key source markets.

cated sales office in New

added.

by TNH DESK

customers

“India

and

J ANUA R Y 2014|

by TNH DESK

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY

In Conversation

scaling a new height with pro-customer approach Rajan Dua MD & Co-founder, Udaan India

With his visionary and dynamic leadership, rajan dua, Managing director and Co-founder of Udaan india has brought his company to a premier position.

Prem Kumar is very crucial for me. Then I carry on with my

tion in Southern India. The company got a good

meetings of the day and other schedules,” Dua

response from there and then there was no looking

been instrumental in success story of

says. He spends his evenings on weekdays with

back.

Udaan India. Today Udaan India is a leading and

family or has dinner meetings. “I love to spend my

first generation entrepreneur, Dua has

reputed brand in the Indian Travel and Tourism in-

weekends with my friends and family members,”

Success Mantra

dustry. Dua’s dynamic leadership, vision and busi-

Dua says.

Today Udaan India is an established player in the business of Visa Outsourcing. Talking about suc-

ness acumen have helped Udaan India to fortify its position as organization and to carve out a niche

Work & life balance

cess mantra of his company, Dua says, “Hard work,

for itself among customers. Dua’s pro-customer ap-

Dua believes that there is no such thing as work-

team work, dedication and our pro-customer ap-

proach coupled with providing innovative and cus-

life balance, and making priorities and adhering to

proach are the four pillars of our foundation which has helped us in establishing Udaan as a leader in

tomized solution to clients has made Udaan India – the first choice for Visa Outsourcing.

Average day A person full of positive thoughts and energy, Dua believes that each day is new beginning. “I consider each day as a new beginning. Positive

Fev 4

Destination: Goa and London Hotel: Lake Palace, Udaipur Cuisines: South Indian (vegetarian) Car: Mercedes ML 350 SUV

thoughts in the morning can change your whole day. As our mind is a powerful tool, positive

this Industry.”

High points Udaan launched Visa portal in the year 2000, which, according to Dua was the first milestone of his company. “The first milestone was launch of Visa Portal by Udaan in the year 2000 and with this

that is very important. “In my opinion, there is no

we pioneered the Online Visa Tracking System,”

thought is a great way to start,” Dua says, speak-

such thing as work-life balance, it is all about pri-

Dua says. According to him second milestone of

ing about how he starts his day.

orities, and I have been able to manage both with

his company was opening up of its branch office in

a positive attitude and a balanced mind.”

Bangalore. Then his company opened offices in

Foray into the travel industry

milestones of his company, Dua informs, “In the

A cup of tea with his wife in the morning is the

Mumbai, Chennai and Gurgaon. Speaking of other

quality time Dua does not want to miss. He says, “Post the morning chores, the most important thing that I don't want to miss is to have a cup of tea with

After completing his graduation, Dua joined a

year 2012, we came up with the upgraded version

my wife. This is a quality time that I spend with

travel agency and then moved on to work with ‘Ask

of our Visa Portal and recently Udaan has been

her.” In the morning, after having a cup of tea with

me’ which is now Just Dial. Reminiscing his expe-

awarded as ‘The Best Visa Facilitation Firm’ at

his wife, Dua goes to gym. “I think physical fitness

rience working with Ask me, Dua says, “It was

TAAI Convention 2013.”

plays an important role in your overall wellbeing

working with Ask me (Just Dial) that I did sales

and performance, especially when you have a hec-

and learnt a lot about developing business.” Later

Challenges in career

tic day ahead,” Dua says, stressing the importance

on, says Dua, “Three of us like-minded people got

Dua faced some challenges at the initial stages

of physical fitness. Back from the gym, Dua gets

together to start a Visa Facilitation Company -

when he launched Udaan. Speaking about chal-

ready for his work, has his breakfast and leaves

Udaan Travels.” Udaan Travels was founded on

lenges and the way he faced it, Dua says, “At initial

for office. “The first one hour after reaching office

February 3, 1992 and it started its sales & promo-

stages we faced issues finding the right manpower.

J ANUARY 20 1 4|

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY

In Conversation

There was a time when we had huge volume of

III cities.”

world and tourist departures are expected to reach

business and a Visa Company with global base

As regards growth opportunity in the segment

20.5 million by 2015. Apart from Business Travel,

poached all my key employees, but we overcame

his company operates, Dua says that India is one

Indian Traveller is now exploring theme-based

this challenge and was able to provide timely and

of the fastest growing outbound markets in the

overseas trips.

smooth services to all our clients.” Support from his family played a key role in his successful career. “Good wishes of my parents and strong family support has helped me scaled new heights,” Dua says. Explaining the USPs of his company, Dua says, “Our pan-India Presence, pro- customer approach coupled with innovative solutions - Visa services powered by technology are a few USPs of Udaan.”

Future plans Speaking of his future plans, Dua says, “Continuing with our endeavour to provide best-in-class services to travel fraternity, we wish to come up with better solutions for our clients involving technology and spreading our reach to tier II and tier

J ANU A RY 2014|

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY

Appointment News GM, Novotel Goa Shrem Resort

Director, Sales & Marketing, Novotel Goa Shrem Resort

Chairman Skyscanner

Manish Dayya has been ap-

Rakshit Talwar has been ap-

Margaret Rice-Jones has been

ponted as the General Manager

pointed Director, Sales & Market-

appointed as Chairman of leading

of the newly launched Novotel

ing of Novotel Goa Shrem Resort.

global travel search company

Goa Shrem Resort. Manish comes

Rakshit comes with about 11 years

Skyscanner. She joined the Sky-

with 16 years of experience in hospitality industry.

of experience in the hospitality industry. Rakshit’s

scanner board in November and will oversee the

An astute and result oriented individual with vast

action oriented nature combined with excellent com-

company’s continued global expansion. Margaret

knowledge and deep understanding of the hospi-

munication skills and expertise in customer man-

brings over 25 years’ experience managing a wide

tality sector, Manish has been entrusted with the

agement makes him the perfect choice to head the

range of technology companies as they have ex-

responsibility of spearheading the operations of

sales and marketing team for the first ever Novotel

panded across international markets. For the ma-

Novotel Goa Shrem Resort.

Resort in the country. In this role, Rakshit will be re-

jority of her career, she has specialised in mobile

Prior to joining Accor in February 2013, Manish

sponsible for driving the sales and marketing strate-

technology as it has transformed from a high-end

was the General Manager at the Raintree Hotel,

gies, promoting brand strategies and initiatives and

work tool to something that truly impacts how

Chennai.

providing best hospitality experience.

nearly all the world’s population lives their lives.

Kempinski Ambience Hotel Delhi Director, Sales & Marketing Vikas Bhola

has been ap-

Director, F & B

Director of Sales Raag Verma has been appointed

Sunil Rawat has been appointed

pointed as the Director of Sales

Director of Sales at Kempinski

Director of Food & Beverage,

and Marketing of Kempinski

Ambience Hotel Delhi.

Apart

Kempinski Ambience Hotel Delhi.

Ambience Hotel Delhi, Vikas

from guarding the sales team

Sunil is a seasoned veteran with

has over seven years of hotel

and administering their daily op-

a decade’s experience in the in-

sales, operations and manage-

erations, he is also be account-

dustry. In his new role, he will

ment experience having handled

able for supporting the team to

overlook and ensure smoother operations of the

diverse portfolios in corporate, travel, trade and

achieve annual budgets, maintain market penetra-

specialty restaurants, bar and banquet events.

event sales.

tion index, and get involved in revenue manage-

Sunil is responsible for Concept Creation, Busi-

Vikas began his association with Kempinski

ment.. Prior to officiating as the Director of Sales,

ness Plan & Budgeting, Staff Recruitment & Train-

Ambience Hotel as Director of Sales in April

Raag served as the Associate Director of Sales at

ing, Vendor Development and Marketing & F&B

2012 during the pre-opening period.

the pre-opening phase of the hotel.

Positioning.

The Khyber Himalayan Resort and Spa, Gulmarg Executive Assistant Manager

Director-Sales

Sr. Executive Chef The O Hotel Pune

Manuj Bahl has been appointed

Rachna Mehra has been ap-

Chef Pankaj Kalko has been ap-

as Executive Assistant Manager

pointed as Director, Sales at The

pointed Senior Executive Chef of

of the resort. Manuj has over a

Khyber Himalayan Resort and

The O Hotel Pune.

dozen years of rich experience in

Spa, Gulmarg’s first luxury re-

Pankaj brings with him 24 years

the hospitality industry. He

sort. Rachna Mehra has over 15

of experience in the hospitality industry to his new

brings with him knowledge and

years of experience in sales and

position at The O Hotel. With varied all round ex-

skills in diverse areas of opera-

marketing of which two third has

perience in world cuisines, Pankaj’s expertise also

tions management, strategic planning, client serv-

been in the hospitality industry. An enthusiastic,

lies in innovation of recipes. In this new role

icing and business development. Prior to joining

energetic and creative professional, Rachna has

Pankaj will oversee the operations of the hotel’s

The Khyber, he has worked for various hotels in

previously worked with Shangri•La, Radisson and

four restaurants, Kitsch – the all day diner, Addah

India and abroad including Kempinski, Four Points

her last assignment was as Sales Manager at The

– the rooftop resto-lounge, Harajuku – Pune’s only

by Sheraton, Hyatt, Leela and the New Africa

Oberoi Group. At The Khyber, she will conceptual-

Japanese fine dining restaurant, and House of

Hotel and Casino.

ize and implement sales strategies.

Chai – the hotel’s outdoor tea lounge.

J ANU ARY 2 01 4 |

TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY