Travel And Hospitality - March 2014 by Prem Sagar

www.tnhindia.in

Issue 06 | Volume V | rnI no.: deleng/2010/33723

TNH (TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY) mArch 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.

Tourism Industry disappointed on Interim Budget

34 Cover Story

Page no.

Customer satisfaction would be key focus area for us: Anil Parashar, ITQ

On the receiving end of Govt’s apathy In view of the forthcoming General Elections, Union Finance Minister presented Interim Budget for year 2014-15 instead of regular budget, as has been the convention. In an Interim Budget, Government avoids making any big changes in its fiscal policy and tax structure, leaving this task to the new government which presents regular budget after elections. However, there have been some exceptions to this convention. When the economy is not doing well, the finance minister makes some key fiscal announcement in its budgetary proposal to improve the economic growth. This year too Finance Minister P Chidambaram made some important announcements in his budget proposal, including reducing excise duties on cars. Travel and Tourism Industry of the Country was also hoping that the Finance Minister would make some favorable announcement for the tourism industry in his Interim Budget. But they were disappointed that no such announcement was made in the Interim Budget for the benefit of the travel and tourism industry. The Finance Minister should have heeded longstanding demand of the hotel industry to grant it complete infrastructure and industry status so that they can avail loans from the band on easier terms and condition. Considering the contribution of the travel and tourism industry to the economy the government should give this industry the attention it deserves.

Quote of the Month

“

Tourism is a vital segment to leverage our culture and our progress and earn precious foreign exchange. The huge variety of tourism opportunities in India as well as the variety of cuisine and cultural experience that India offered made our country ‘truly incredible’. Increasing the tourist inflow was a challenge considering the fact that a small country like France with a population just around 5% of India’s population was able to attract 83 million tourists which is almost 12 times of the foreign tourist inflow in India.

“

Editor’s Note

Shashi Tharoor, Union Minister of State for Human Resources Development speaking at The National Tourism Awards in New Delhi

Chart of the Month APAC HOTEL INVESTMENT VOLUME BY COUNTRY IH 2013

Source: RCA, Cushman & Walkefield Hospitality

Printed, published, owned by srishti rai. Printed at somsons Printing Works, 1/7, doctor’s lane, gole market, new delhi 110001, and published at P- 23/90, connaught circus, new delhi 110001; editor: srIshTI rAI

inside the issue mArch 2014 | Volume V | Issue 6

Overwhelming response to SATTE 2014

Fantasy in God’s Own Country

MoT gives away the National Tourism Awards 2012-13

MTDC and MEHAIR launch amphibian plane services from Mumbai to boost tourism

Cover Story: Relish the charm of wildlife in the Heart of India

India’s Aviation Safety Record above Global Average

Crowne Plaza Greater Noida new address of luxury

Choice Hotels India opens Clarion Hotel Coimbatore

Brand USA hosts USA Pavilion at SATTE 2014

Glimpses of USA Pavilion at SATTE 2014

India is biggest market in Asia for Kenya

In Conversation: Customer satisfaction would be key focus area for us: Anil Parashar, ITQ

Cover Story

In Conversation

Trade Show

ITB Berlin Convention 2014: focus on diversity

will also hold a round table on

A wide range of topics at the travel industry’s leading think tank ITB CSR Day focuses on human rights in tourism and discusses green washing – PhoCusWright@ITB presents new ideas for individually targeting customers . he ITB Berlin Convention

the working group tourismus

the anti-trafficking campaign

the subject. A discussion

& entwicklung Basel will be de-

of UNWTO, UNODC and UN-

round including Dr. Christian

bating how effective support-

ESCO’, experts will be talking

Baumgartner, general secre-

ing projects is in realising

about efforts to urge responsi-

tary of Naturfreunde Interna-

human rights in tourism both

ble behaviour among tourists.

tionale,

now and in the future.

The members of a panel taking

Hiran

Cooray,

managing director of Jetwing

Jenny Rushmore, director

place on day two of the ITB

Hotels, and Tom Koenigs, a

of Responsible Travel Tripad-

Destination Days will be dis-

member of the German Bun-

visor, and Deirdre Shurland,

cussing the prospects for sus-

destag and chairman of the

senior

UNEP

tainable tourism in the Arab

Committee on Human Rights

Tourism & Environment Pro-

countries. H.E. Sheikha Mai Al

consultant,

will be underlining its role

and Humanitarian Aid, will be

gramme will be discussing how

Khalifa, Minister of Culture of

as the leading think tank of the

examining problems, causes

marketing heads can success-

the Kingdom of Bahrain,

international travel industry

and practical recommenda-

fully communicate the idea of

Michael Frese, managing di-

with a wide and fascinating

tions. Afterwards, Matthias

sustainable tourism in exciting

rector of DER Touristik GmbH

range of topics. From 5 to 8

Leisinger, head of Corporate

ways. Tripadvisor’s Green

and Samih Sawiris, chairman

March 2014 leading interna-

Responsibility at Kuoni Travel

Leaders Programme will be

of Orascom HD, will be dis-

tional experts and tourism

Holding

Mon-

evaluating the comments on

cussing future developments

professionals will be gathering

shausen of the German offices

sustainable practices found on

at tourism destinations in the

and

Antje

to discuss the future of the

of the Round table on Human

customer review platforms

Arab countries and whether

travel industry. This year

Rights in Tourism will be dis-

and presenting its findings at

the results will meet the needs

Malaysia, the Convention &

cussing the observation of

the ITB Berlin Convention.

of European source markets.

Culture Partner, will be making

human rights and the opportu-

Glamping represents a niche

Furthermore, Loveleen Tan-

a special contribution. The

nities and challenges facing

market with promising growth

dan, the award-winning direc-

Hon. Dato' Seri Mohamed

companies. For the first time a

prospects. Marco Walter, man-

tor (8 Oscars, 4 Golden Globes)

Nazri bin Tan Sri Abdul Aziz,

management concept has been

aging director of Ecocamping

of Slumdog Millionaire, will be

the Malaysian Minister of

laid out that advises tour oper-

e.V. will be discussing whether

holding a keynote speech on

Tourism and Culture, will be

ators on how to address the

luxurious rental accommoda-

’dark tourism’ in slum areas,

opening the ITB Berlin Con-

issue of human rights. A new

tion at camping sites poses a

war zones and extreme regions.

vention. For trade visitors and

guide will provide companies

threat to the hotel industry

exhibitors admission to the

with practical tips to assist its

and how glamping and sus-

ITB Berlin Convention is free

implementation.

of charge. On 7 March the ITB CSR

On 5 March in Hall 7.1c,

tainable tourism can go to-

taking as its slogan ’Cult of

At this year’s Studiosus

gether. Cruise tour operators

Context’, PhoCusWright@ITB

discussion the topic will be

have come under fire as re-

will be discussing the possibil-

Day will again be addressing

’Supporting tourism projects –

gards their approach to sus-

ities for targeting today’s cus-

the key topics of sustainable

is it all just greenwashing?’

tainable

tomers on an individual basis.

tourism.

tourism and social responsibil-

Taking this statement as its

interview Thomas P. Illes, a

Nowadays, holidaymakers ex-

ity. The Federal Ministry of

premise the discussion will

cruise market analyst, univer-

pect tailored products rather

Economic Cooperation and De-

outline the various approaches

sity lecturer and journalist,

than standard solutions. At a

velopment (BMZ) is sponsor-

to supporting tourism projects.

and Dr. Henning Brauer, prin-

discussion on holiday tours

ing

Dr. Ines Carstensen, managing

cipal consultant, DNV GL, and

and activities Johannes Reck,

the

event,

which

organised by the German Soci-

director of Futouris e.V., Bar-

former head of Neubau Europa

CEO of GetYourGuide, and

ety for International Coopera-

bara Glanz, General Manager

2, Hapag Lloyd Kreuzfahrten,

Brad Weber, CEO & president

tion (GIZ). The world’s leading

of Central Europe Intrepid

will be talking about new tech-

of Gray Line Worldwide, will be

travel trade show will also be

Group, Dr. Nicole Maldonado

nologies and how effective they

talking about how to make the

setting the tone with a focus on

Pyschny, deputy head of Eco-

are.

relevant choices and about in-

human rights in tourism. Fur-

nomic Policies and Finances at

The ITB Destination Day

novative online marketing.

thermore, at the ITB CSR Day

the Federal Ministry of Eco-

will also be addressing the

Nicolas Brusson, co-founder &

ITB Berlin will sign an agree-

nomic Cooperation and Devel-

topic of human rights. As part

COO of BlaBlaCar, promises to

ment committing to support

opment and Dr. Christine

of the discussion round on ’Il-

shake up the market for car

human rights in tourism and

Plüss, managing director of

legal trafficking and tourism –

sharing agencies.

MAR CH 201 4| TNH (TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY)

by TNH DESK

Trade Show

LGBT – a key topic: ITB Berlin presents Gay & Lesbian Travel events Gay & Lesbian Travel Pavilion with first-time exhibitors from Mexico, ITB’s partner country, Slovenia, Majorca, Madrid, Japan and China – show debut for media networking event – ITB Berlin Convention programme features discussion round – popular ITB TomOnTour Party on 5 March.

Tourismus, Wien Tourismus

of the event. Journalists wish-

and Ontario Tourism. The or-

ing to take part can register at

ganiser is ITB Berlin and the

TB@tomontour.com. Thurs-

media partners are Spartacus

day evening will also be ”after

Traveler and TomOnTour. The

ITB party time.” Spartacus,

event targets representatives

Lufthansa and Schauinsland

from all parts of the media. Trade visitors can also look forward to interesting

Reisen will be extending an invitation

attend

the

mate.Travel Award 2014 at

his year ITB Berlin will

(IGLTA) will again be hosting

programme items at the ITB

Tube

again be hosting a wide-

the largest display. Co-ex-

Berlin Convention. On Friday,

Friedrichstrasse (registration

Station

Berlin

ranging programme featuring

hibitors will include Florida,

at the ITB Destination Days, a

numerous events on the topic

Fort Lauderdale, Key West,

discussion round will be dis-

Award@matemediagroup.de)

of lesbian, gay, bisexual and

World Rainbow Hotels (UK),

cussing the growing impor-

and on Friday it will be the

transgender travel (LGBT).

organisers from Tel Aviv, India,

tance

For many years the world’s

as well as Toronto World Pride

organisations

mandatory

at:

Gay

Pride

Axel Hotel ITB Party in Liet-

for

urban

zenburgerstrasse which will

leading travel trade show has

and China, a newcomer to the

tourism. The event will take

attract after-work- network-

been helping to develop this

event.

Wien

place on Friday at 4 p.m. in

ers.

booming

Tourismus will be offering re-

Hall 7.1a, in the Auditorium

IGLTA/Axel Hotel ITB Party.

With its Networking Brunch

freshments at the established

New

Jean

Morning hours at the show will

for journalists, a seminar on

Vienna Gay Café, where every

François of the Gay & Lesbian

also offer opportunities for

market

segment.

Once

again,

York

Rika

Please

’Gay Pride Events’, numerous

visitor can enjoy Viennese cof-

Travel Segment, ITB Berlin

networking. On the Saturday

receptions,

popular

fee specialities free of charge.

and member of the board of

of ITB at 9.30 a.m., visitBerlin

TomOnTour Party, as well as a

On 5 March from 4 to 6 p.m.,

IGLTA, will give an introduc-

will be inviting guests to attend

along

IGLTA,

tory presentation. Afterwards,

the popular visitBerlin Gay

Lufthansa and Berliner Aids-

Tom Roth, president of Com-

Breakfast in the ABBA Berlin

number

the

first-time

ex-

hibitors, ITB Berlin will have a

with

the

wide-ranging programme of

Hilfe e.V., the Spartacus Inter-

munity Marketing Inc., the sci-

Hotel

events waiting for visitors in-

national Gay Guide will be

ence partner of ITB Berlin,

Strasse.

terested in LGBT.

hosting an LGBT reception for

David Whitaker, president and

ITB Berlin supports the

Lietzenburger

In 2014 the main attraction

visitors on its stand. IGLTA

CEO of Tourism Toronto, Saro

LGBT segment 365 days a year

will once again be the Gay &

partner Chic Outlet Shopping

Arenciba of the Gran Canaria

and hosts ITB Academy events

Lesbian Travel Pavilion. This

in hall 18, stand 125, will host

Tourist Board, Czeslaw Walek,

at various destinations which

year it will be amongst the

a Chic Champagne & Canapés

president Prague Pride, as

provide information on global

Caribbean displays in Hall 3.1

reception

well as Masaki Higashida,

developments. Messe Berlin

for

registered

and will be featuring a number

guests. On Saturday, the Queer

founder of Qocci Tokyo will be

has also signed up to strategic

of first-time exhibitors. Cele-

Tango Show, organised by Ar-

talking about international

partnerships

with

Wien

brating their debut will be

gentina, will round off the pro-

best practices and the impact

Tourismus and visitBerlin and

companies from Mexico, ITB

gramme of events at the Gay &

of Gay Pride on tourism.

plans exist for further destina-

Berlin’s partner country, Ma-

Lesbian Travel Pavilion.

Taking place on the first

tions to follow. In the context of

jorca, Madrid, Japan as well as

On Wednesday, from 11

evening of ITB Berlin 2014, the

its social responsibilities ITB

Pinkweek.eu from Slovenia.

a.m. to 12.30 p.m., taking place

popular Gay ITB Party organ-

Berlin also sees itself in a pio-

Brazil will also be taking part

in the ICC Salon 13/14, mem-

ised by TomOnTour is once

neering role, and promotes

again. Other exhibitors will in-

bers of the media can find out

again a must. On Wednesday, 5

greater tolerance and the im-

clude Wien Tourismus, Ar-

all the latest news and devel-

March at 7.30 p.m., a private

plementation of human rights.

gentina, Prague Pride, Gran

opments concerning LGBT in-

function for travel profession-

Furthermore, together with

Canaria,

bound tourism at the 1st Gay &

als and the media will be tak-

Messe Berlin ITB is planning

TomonTour.com,

Spartacus as well as Morantis,

Lesbian Media Networking

ing place in the Golden Tulip

to fly its colours at this year’s

with offers of tourism in

Brunch.

them,

Hotel on Landgrafenstrasse.

Christopher Street Day (CSD)

Cyprus and Greece. In 2014

among others, will be Rezidor

The evening’s topic will be

on 21 June in Berlin, where it

the International Gay & Les-

Hotels Deutschland, visitBer-

’Night flights over Berlin.’ Vis-

will be taking part with its own

bian

lin, Frankfurt Congress +

itFlorida is the main sponsor

float.

MAR CH 201 4| TNH (TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY)

Travel

Association

Welcoming

by TNH DESK

Trade Show

Inspiration for social responsibility and the next travel adventure

Amiri will moderate the three-

ternational will be debating

day event, whose slogan is

the topic of social media.

More than 130 exhibitors with information on sustainable tourism, adventure travel and youth trips in Hall 4.1 at ITB Berlin.

ers

“Exploring

Mountains,

On day three, climate pro-

Canyons and Caves.“ Speak-

tection will be among the main

Gera

topics, with the myclimate

Voskanyan, Partnerships &

will

include

Awards due to be presented in

Communications

manager

four categories to companies

xercising social responsi-

tours. This year the Indian lux-

and Ecotourism expert of the

for their outstanding achieve-

bility while enjoying one’s

ury hotel chain CGH Earth has

World Wide Fund for Nature

ments. Afterwards, discussion

holiday experience to the full is

made a conscious decision to

(WWF), who will be talking

rounds will be examining how

not a contradiction. In Hall 4.1,

exhibit in Hall 4.1 in order to

about Armenia’s nature re-

important geoparks and UN-

visitors to this year’s ITB

emphasise the importance of

serves and cultural heritage,

ESCO World Heritage Sites

Berlin can once again get in-

socially responsible tourism.

as well as Rati Japaridze,

are for tourism. Taking Portu-

chairman of the Agency of

gal’s Naturtejo geopark as an

spiration for their adventure

From 5 to 7 March, on the

tours and sports trips and find

days reserved for trade visi-

Protected Areas in Georgia,

example, Armindo Moreira da

out more from lectures about

tors, the large stage in the hall

who will be talking about his

Palma Jacinto, president of

socially responsible tourism

will again be hosting outstand-

country’s unrivalled bio-diver-

the Administration Board, will

projects around the world. Hall

ing events on sustainable

sity. At the Master Class on

be illustrating how educa-

4.1b with its unique design and

tourism. Topics will include

Sustainable

Mountain

tional and exciting a visit to a

adventure course is certain to

human rights in tourism, sus-

Tourism, Dr. Auliana Poon,

geopark can be. Cycling is a

inspire visitors with a lust for

tainable tourism initiatives fol-

managing director of Tourism

slightly different way to ex-

travel.

lowing the Arab Spring in

Intelligence International, will

plore a country like Nepal. Raj

Also in Hall 4.1, youth tour

Tunisia, and wildlife poaching.

be talking about how destina-

Gyawali, founder and manag-

operators and youth hostels

The International Institute for

tions can develop tourism in

ing director of Socialtours, will

will be providing information

Peace through Tourism (ICTP)

sustainable and socially re-

be talking about how this en-

for visitors on tours for young

will be celebrating its 25th an-

sponsible ways.

vironmentally

responsible

people. The segments Respon-

niversary, and ITB’s partner

On day two of the Pow-

sible

Adventure

atmosfair, which handles all

wow the focus will also be on

Travel and Youth Travel &

business travel compensation

sustainable tourism.Speakers

Economy Accommodation will

for the team of the ITB, will be

will

Matthias

ics organised by the The Blue

feature a total of more than

inviting visitors to a debate on

Leisinger, head of Corporate

Yonder, ITB’s Responsible

Tourism,

include

form of travel has become popular there. Responsible Tourism Clin-

130 exhibitors from 35 coun-

the future of tourism and cli-

Responsibility, Kuoni Group,

Tourism Partner, will be tak-

tries at the world’s leading

mate change. The To DO!

and Mechthild Maurer, manag-

ing place on all three days of

travel trade show.70 exhibitors

Awards for socially responsi-

ing director, ECPAT Deutsch-

the Pow-wow. On Friday at 6

will be represented in the seg-

ble tourism, organised by Stu-

land, who will be talking about

p.m. the well-established ITB

ments Responsible Tourism

dienkreis für Tourismus und

protecting children’s rights in

International

Responsible

and Adventure Travel alone.

Entwicklung e.V. and sup-

tourism. Experts from Thai-

Tourism Networking Event

This year, newcomers include

ported by ITB, will be pre-

land, Greece, Colombia, Rus-

will be taking place, where

Armenia, Georgia, Greenland,

sented on the Wednesday at

sia and UNWTO will be

participants in search of busi-

New Zealand, Colombia and

2.30 p.m.

reporting on their projects.

ness partners will have an op-

On the days reserved for

Haiti’s minister of tourism

portunity to meet.

conatural from Colombia will

trade visitors the small stage

Stephanie Balmir Villedrouin,

Hall 4.1 will also feature

sustainable

in the centre of Hall 4.1 will be

members of the embassy in

the Youth Travel segment,

tourism projects which aim to

hosting the 9th Pow-wow for

Germany and a representative

where visitors can obtain tips

Jordan. For example, Serpresenting

provide support and protection

tourism professionals, who

of the famine relief organisa-

on youth and student travel.

for this country’s natural envi-

can find out all the latest

tion Welthungerhilfe will be

The 63 exhibitors represented

ronment and culture. Detours

about new projects and exam-

discussing reconstruction ef-

here will be showing how im-

from Jordan will be offering

ples of best practices concern-

forts and the development of

portant this market segment

the experience of living in

ing sustainable tourism and

sustainable tourism in Haiti.

has become for international

tents like Bedouins as well as

adventure travel.

Also on day two of the Pow-

tourism.

ecologically responsible desert

Well-known TV host Mary

wow, Tourism Intelligence In-

by TNH DESK

MA R CH 2014| TNH (TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY)

Trade News

Tourism Industry disappointed with Interim Budget 2014-15

conducive business environ-

200 crores to be included in

ment for the sector. He added

RBI’s Infrastructure Lending

that the Industry Status is a

List needs to be relaxed to in-

long pending demand of

clude smaller projects as well.

Travel and tourism industry has expressed disappointment over the negligence of the tourism industry in the recently presented Interim Union Budget. added that for several years,

pointment of Indian As-

the government is systemati-

sociation of Tour Operators

cally killing the goose that

(IATO) over the Budget, Sub-

lays the golden egg. “How

hash Goyal, President, IATO

long you can tax the same

said that IATO is really disap-

sector. Present tax structure

pointed

on the tourism sector has out

the

neglecting

priced us from the tourism

“

market and we are losing

For several years, the government is systematically killing the goose that lays the golden egg. Present tax structure on the tourism sector has out priced us from the tourism market and we are losing business to our neighbouring countries.

“

Subhash Goyal, President, IATO

“

We are looking for a uniform tax reform and expected GST to be reduced. These are difficult times for the hospitality sector and the interim budget does not offer much to this sector.

“

disap-

xpressing

Ajay Bakaya, Executive Director, Sarovar Hotels

business to our neighbouring countries,” said Goyal.

tourism and hospitality in-

tributes 9% to the global

Commenting on the in-

dustry, which continue to be

economy and employment. In

terim budget, Ajay Bakaya,

highly taxed. “Banqueting is

India it contribute about 5.7

Executive Director, Sarovar

saddled with retrograde tax-

per cent to the GDP but more

Hotels said, “We are looking

“

for a uniform tax reform and expected GST to be reduced.

The reduction in excise duty on cars and commercial vehicles will give a shot in the arm for the automobile industry. “It is struggling in the face of sluggish demand due to high interest rates and slow-down in the economy and this reduction in cost will have a positive impact on the industry.

These are difficult times for the hospitality sector and the interim budget does not offer

tourism

sector

Union

much to this sector. On a

“Even

brighter note, visa-on-arrival

though, it was an interim

policy will help the hospitality

budget, we expected it would

industry.

Budget

2014-15.

bring some relief to the

In his reaction to the in-

tourism industry by accepting

terim budget, S N Srivastava,

our long pending demand of

President

extending all benefits which

Clarks Inn Group of Hotels

“

The interim budget left much to be desired, not only from the industry’s point of view but also what it could do for the country’s economy and employment.

“

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

Srivastava said that

Tourism and hospitality con-

“

Co-founder, Sunil Gupta, CEO, Avis India

said, “The interim budget left

ation laws like PPL (Porno-

than 9 per cent in employ-

much to be desired, not only

graphic

ment, clearly making the sec-

from the industry’s point of

Excise duty on the import of

tor

view but also what it could do

various equipment and fix-

intensive in India than the

for the country’s economy

tures used in hotels are

world average. There is huge

and employment.” However,

highly taxed,” said Srivas-

opportunity for the country if

he lauded some of Govern-

tava.

only we look at closing the

ment’s courageous reforms

Performances).

He noted that hospitality

introduced in the recent

sector

months, especially in the area

120,000 rooms at an esti-

needs

about

employment

gap with the world average in terms of sector’s contribution to the global GDP.

of easing Visa processes that

mated investment of 50,000

According to Goyal, the

are being given to the physi-

will help boost international

crores in the budget segment

government has failed to un-

cal exporters of goods on the

tourist arrivals.

alone by 2017. Whereas the

derstand the value of tourism

basis of our foreign exchange

Srivastava said that there

current norm that stipulates

and the fact that tourism sec-

earnings,” said Goyal. He

is an urgent need to create

that only hotel projects above

tor contributes about 6% to

MAR CH 201 4| TNH (TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY)

Trade News the national GDP and its con-

Goyal said that this (in-

disappointed with the budget.

growth and high government

tribution in the employment

terim budget) was an oppor-

Sunil Gupta, Chief Executive

borrowing crowding out in-

which is more than 9%. “Not

tunity for the government to

Officer, Avis India said that

vestment, there will be no

only this, it also earns huge

recognize the tourism sector

the reduction in excise duty

lasting impact,” added Gupta.

foreign exchange for the

in view of its contribution in

on cars and commercial vehi-

According to Gupta, two more

country and in tourism the

national GDP and employ-

cles will give a shot in the

redeeming features of the

retention value of foreign ex-

ment generation and in spite

arm for the automobile indus-

vote on account are: Eschew-

change

greater

of giving it due recognition,

try. “It is struggling in the

ing of populist measures to

(nearly 95%), whereas in all

much

the budget allocation for the

face of sluggish demand due

improve

other export oriented indus-

tourism sector has been re-

to high interest rates and

prospects of the Congress

tries like gems and jewellery,

duced from `980 Crore to

slow-down in the economy

and focus on manufacturing,

carpets, textile, there is lot of

`907 Crores in the present

and this reduction in cost will

which has a huge multiplier

out flow because of import of

budget which is really disap-

have a positive impact on the

effect for the economy. “As far

raw material,” said Goyal,

pointing as it will have nega-

industry. However, this will at

as the car rental industry is

“By imposing service tax on

tive

tourism

best give a temporary boost.

concerned, any reduction in

tourism, Government is ex-

promotion and marketing ef-

Till there is an improvement

the cost of the cars that we

porting its taxes which no

forts by the tourism ministry.

in the macro economic fac-

buy is good news,” added

However everyone is not

tors like high inflation, low

Gupta.

mand for air travel and rejuve-

Searches on Wego have gone up

other country does.”

effects

Airlines luring passengers for the forthcoming summer Some Airlines such as SpiceJet has come up recently with attractive Sale and promotional discounts to attract passengers for the forthcoming summer holidays.

Rajesh Magow Co-founder & CEO-India, MakeMyTrip

Vikram Malhi GM, South and Southeast Asia, Expedia

the

electoral

by TNH DESK

nating the market. Airlines are

by 30-40% in the past 24 hours.

able to improve forward-loads

Among

destinations

most

and gain yield predictability by

searched are Mumbai, Pune,

filling up seats earlier.”

Delhi, Bangalore, Kolkata and

In reference to the SpiceJet

Goa."

Summer Sale and the expected

Speaking on latest fare

airline fare discounts, Manu

slash by Spicejet, Vikram

Monga, VP & Head, Marketing,

Malhi, GM, South and South-

tinue to be the top-selling

Musafir.com says, “Last week

east

routes, while leisure sectors

we saw Go Air offering a dis-

“These flash sales are becom-

like Goa and Srinagar have also

count of 30% off to the passen-

ing a regular feature in the first

seen a big spike. Travellers who

gers and now Spice Jet has

few months of the year. Besides

could not get discounted air-

announced a 75% sale, this is a

stimulating demand, these are

fares during the last two sales

holiday bonanza for consumers

also prompting Indians to plan

have reason to cheer.” He

and we expect other airlines to

their travel in advance, as these

Asia,

Expedia,

said,

added that these promotions

follow suit as well. Holiday

sales encourage travel planning

have definitely fueled summer-

planning season for the sum-

in a particular timeframe and

holiday

larger

mer is the perfect time to an-

at least a month in advance

groups (such as families) since

breaks

nounce discounted rates and

from the date of the promo-

MakeMyTrip saw a higher pro-

offer an affordable travel expe-

tions.”

portion of group-bookings com-

rience for passengers. We have

“The Indian consumer is evolv-

pared

single-passenger

seen a surge of 20 per cent in

ing and seeing the pattern since

for

Vikram Malhi added,

bookings. Also, a higher propor-

bookings within hours of the

last year, they have begun ex-

Co-

tion of return bookings indi-

sale being announced and we

pecting such discounts more

founder & CEO-India, Make-

cated planned leisure and

expect the numbers to increase

often. Typically what we have

further in the coming days.”

observed so far since last year

Rajesh MyTrip

said,

Magow,

latest

business travel.” Magow said,

airfare sale picked up from to-

“This

“Travellers are also looking for-

Commenting on recent air-

morrow. Our website has wit-

ward to these promotions. Last

fare dip, Jackson Fernandez,

dropped fares or offered dis-

nessed a 3x growth in visitors

year too, we witnessed an air-

MD Wego.com, "We are seeing a

counts on advance booking,

and we sold over 60,000 tickets

fare sale in January followed by

jump in flight searches on Wego

other carriers have matched

yesterday. Delhi, Mumbai and

one in February. These sales

over the past day after the an-

their pricing to keep their mar-

Bangalore combinations con-

are helping to create new de-

nounced

ket share.”

dip

airfares.

is that whenever an airline has

by TNH DESK

MA R CH 2014| TNH (TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY)

Trade Show

Overwhelming response to SATTE 2014 South Asia’s largest travel trade show SATTE 2014 got an overwhelming response both from the domestic as well as oversees stakeholders, with participants from across the world terming the event as most vibrant travel trade show of the region.

come out in the next couple of months. Dewan particularly highlighted the ‘777 Days of Himalayas, recently launched Bodh Gaya campaign targeted particularly at some 23 Buddhist countries, Government’s initiative for the nine states of North East including West Bengal, Visa free travel for

Having emerged as one of

going to happen in future,” he

Maldivians to India for med-

the leading global travel mart

said, further adding to also

ical reasons, as some of the

now, the 21st edition of SATTE

look at ways to make SATTE

Government’s

initiatives

opened with its single most

the most important show in

aimed at attracting foreign

drive to offer platform to the

Asia and not just in India.

tourists during the off season.

travel industry from across

Addressing the inaugura-

Dewan also reminded the

the globe to conduct business,

tion ceremony at SATTE 2014,

delegates some of the prom-

open new destinations and

Joji George, Managing Direc-

ises that he had made on the

welcomed over 640 exhibitors

business opportunities, net-

tor, UBM India, informed that

eve of SATTE 2013 that his de-

from 35 countries and 23 In-

work and renew old contacts.

the event this year has grown

partment has been able to de-

The 21st edition of SATTE

dian States. The entire gamut of travel, tourism and hospitality suppliers successfully leveraged this leading trade platform to showcase their products. A record 10,000 business meeting requests were received by the SATTE 2014, and 11,529 business vis-

liver upon including on Visa

Snapshot

relaxation, removal of restric-

Tourism stakeholders from across the world hail SATTE as the region’s most vibrant show SATTE 2014 welcomed over 640 exhibitors from 35 countries and 23 Indian States. 11,529 business visitors including Indian and international buyers visited the event. A record 10,000 business meeting requests were received by the SATTE 2014

itors including pre-registered

tions on re-entry of foreign tourist before 60 days and Visa on Arrival facility at more Indian airports. Alla

Presselova,

Pro-

gramme Manager, Fairs and Special Field Projects, Silk Road, UNWTO, attending the

and hosted Indian and inter-

Addressing the inaugural

bigger and better. According

SATTE conference delivered

national buyers visited the

function of SATTE 2014,

to George, 160 international

the

event.

Michael Duck, Executive Vice

and 430 Indian pre-registered

UNWTO Secretary General

special

message

SATTE, one of the leading

President, UBM Asia, laid

trade buyers attended the

Taleb Rifai on the occasion of

travel exhibitions of the world

great emphasis on India as a

event.

the 21st edition of SATTE.

and South Asia’s largest

source market as well as the

Addressing the delegates

While lauding SATTE for

travel trade show was held on

destination. “The crossroads

to the 21st edition of SATTE,

developing a very comprehen-

January 29-31, 2014 in New

of Asia is here in India. The vi-

Chief Guest and Secretary

sive programme of events and

Delhi. The event saw massive

brancy of tourism offerings

Tourism, Government of India,

cementing its reputation as

participation and response

here in India is fantastic and

Parvez Dewan, hailed SATTE

one of the leading networking

from a wide-range of stake-

we are scratching at the sur-

as a ‘national institution.’ “It

and business platforms for the

holders. Held as it did amidst

face at the moment. There is

is a very major institution on

tourism sector in South Asia,

the continuing global eco-

great opportunity for the fu-

the

Indian

Rifai in his message said,

nomic challenges, the event

ture. The opportunity also lies

tourism,” he said. Dewan also

“SATTE will prove to be an

re-enforced a renewed faith of

for the destination that ex-

informed that the outbound

ideal opportunity to address

firmament

global travel community for

cites the new Indian tourists.

figure has been recorded at

the issues and innovations

better days ahead facilitated

I know when you leave this ex-

over 16 million and hoped that

that are currently influencing

through one of the world’s

hibition in three-days you will

the inbound number will be

our sector. This will, concomi-

fastest and strongest emerg-

go away with a very satisfied

closure to the magic figure of

tantly, set the scene for years

ing region of South Asia.

position of knowing what is

7 million as the final figures

to come and open immense

MA RC H 20 14 | TNH (TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY)

Trade Show

planet earth. Goyal high-

venue on hoardings and shut-

lighted India’s unique place as

tles. The NTO also signed and

the cradle of some of the world

supported the signing of a se-

religions Hinduism, Budhism,

ries of MoU with the key trade

Sikhism and Jainism. He also

associations of India and the

drew attention to the heritage,

key trade associations of the

the Himalaya and beaches of

UK in order to nurture busi-

India, among others.

ness between the two coun-

Hailing SATTE as an institution in itself, S M Shervani,

tries, on the sidelines of SATTE.

President, Federation of Hotel

Speaking on the occasion,

and Restaurant Associations

Sandie Dawe, CEO, VisitBri-

of India (FHRAI) said, “Each

tain said, “We are attending

year this unique forum wit-

SATTE for the first time and

nesses a unique confluence of

with a large number of suppli-

some of the best minds and

ers. They are excited about

opportunities in terms of in-

state level in order create the

leading voices in the travel,

this market. Last year there

terregional cooperation and

maximum benefits for India

tourism and hospitality sector.

was a 9 per cent growth in vis-

inclusive business develop-

tourism.

SATTE also serves as an ex-

itor numbers from India to the

ment.”

Drawing the analogy of

traordinary showcase of in-

UK, helping the UK break the

reiterated

putting the ‘cart before the

credible India encapsulating

20 Billion Pound mark for the

UNWTO’s commitment to in

horse’ for doing things in the

its rich diversity dynamism

first time in inbound spend-

continuing its collaboration

wrong order, Anand pointed

and thriving business oppor-

ing.”

with SATTE. He said, “I am

that tourism in India has al-

tunities. The overwhelming

Indicating the vital role

convinced that the outcomes

ways been considered an elit-

participation of major hospi-

that SATTE has come to play

of this tourism fair will help

ist strategy and not an

tality companies from India

in developing the South Asian

Rifai

also

shape and contribute to a

economic activity. He said that

and abroad and the presence

market and particularly India,

more sustainable and dy-

rather than create a push for

of the venerable who’s who of

another reason that

namic future for our sector.”

tourism there is a need to cre-

the travel trade bears ample

pointed as to why VisitBritain

Dawe

Speaking on the occasion

ate the pull, similar to putting

testimony to the profound im-

is attending SATTE is the role

Nakul Anand, Chairman, Fed-

horse before the cart and not

portance that our industry at-

of travel industry as a partner

eration of Associations in In-

the other way round.

taches to this prestigious

in building the value of

dian Tourism & Hospitality

He also quoted former US

event. SATTE’s success is

tourism to Britain. A good

(FAITH) and Executive Direc-

President Bill Clinton who had

also a vivid reflection of

80% of the visits from India to

tor, ITC Ltd., laid emphasis on

famously said at the WTTC

India’s ever growing global in-

the UK are booked through

the unconventional wisdom

Global Summit in Abu Dhabi

fluence, both as a captivating

travel trade. “So we and our

that India needs to follow in

last year, “I spent a lot of time

destination and a lucrative

suppliers are very-very keen

order to highlight the various

when I was president, trying

market.

to do business with the Indian

unique facets, features and di-

to end wars, prevent killing

He said that FHRAI is con-

travel industry,” she said.

versity of India. He said,

and promote understanding.

fident of SATTE’s continued

“India has the potential to

What I have seen is that peace

contribution

its

shared a long-standing rela-

towards

Malaysia

Tourism

has

reach just about any height.

works better than conflict,

shared goal of placing India to

tion with SATTE and the des-

We will target 1 percent share

and one of the best manifesta-

its rightful position among the

tination has continued to

of world tourism as our first

tions of it is in travel and

world leaders in tourism. “We

develop the Indian market

objective as set by the MOT by

tourism.”

converting our natural and

Subhash Goyal, President,

are proud to endorse this

year-on-year, capitalising on

landmark

its networking and product

initiative,”

economic advantage into com-

Indian Association of Tour Op-

petitive advantages.” Anand

erators (IATO), associated

VisitBritain made a grand

also pointed out that the in-

with SATTE since the show

debut at SATTE with a big del-

dustry must seek to power

started 21 years ago, called

egate and was also promi-

Zulkifly Md. Said, Director

every wheel of tourism at the

India the greatest show on the

nently visible all across the

General, Islamic Tourism Cen-

added.

promotions at SATTE for years. Speaking on the occasion,

MA R CH 2014| TNH (TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY)

Trade Show

Snapshot

tre, Malaysia, said, “Malaysia

SATTE 2014 highlights Sustainable Tourism, Cruise as buzz words for 2014 •VisitBritain announces MoU between UK and Indian Trade Associations •Role of Social media and technology for hotel industry highlighted

(TAAI) said “SATTE has been

first timer that is setting up

he pointed to be the twin ben-

has been a regular feature at

a catalyst in promoting bilat-

shop SATTE. Likewise, on

efits of outbound travel,

SATTE for the past 10 years.

eral tourism, both inbound

the domestic front 23 Indian

OTOAI (Outbound Tour Oper-

The outbound market from

and outbound opportunities.”

States showcasing at SATTE.

ators Association of India)

India has grown tremendously

He also drew attention to the

Last year there was an im-

President, Guldeep Singh

and India, along with China, is

640 exhibitors participating at

pressive surge of 18 % in ap-

Sahni said, “When Indians

the only country where we

the exhibition this year which

pointment

travel to the various part of

have established three offices.

he said is an example that

event achieves such mile-

the world they also act as

Tourists coming from India to

how big the event has become

stone until and unless it

country’s brand ambassa-

enquiries.

Malaysia number 700,000 and

and also grown in importance

maintains the highest crite-

dor.”And therefore, he called

have made significant contri-

for the tourism industry’s

ria and quality of buyers’

the outbound trade the wel-

bution in tourism receipt, al-

growth.

profile, strategic planning

coming community for India.

most 2 Billion Ringgit and we

Speaking on the occasion,

treasure the presence of In-

Zakkir Ahmed, President,

and quick responses.” Ahmed also pointed that

Sahni also pointed that the various NTOs present in

dian tourists in Malaysia. We

Travel Agents Federation of

exhibitions are a dime a

India also contributes to the

also see a growing number of

India (TAFI) said, “For more

dozen, but yet most of us en-

Indian economy by means of

Indian making Malaysia their

than two decades each and

sure that we block our dates

their destination marketing

second

the

every one of us has been

for SATTE. “The reasons are

initiatives in the country. He

‘Malaysia My Second Home’

most impressed by the blaz-

simple. SATTE is a profes-

particularly pointed out Visit

programme. We will continue

ing success of SATTE, and

sionally run event where

Britain’s active initiative in

to be here at SATTE for a

each of this 20 years, the

quality delegates come from

this area in the recent years.

home

under

good number of years to

event has grown in stature

India and abroad, and more

He also commended the plat-

come.”

and performance to achieve a

importantly it provides a

form that SATTE has created

Lauding SATTE’s efforts

very enviable pace of growth.

common platform for benefi-

through this exhibition and

in promoting tourism, both in-

This year too is going to be

cial and meaningful interac-

pointed that the exhibition

bound and outbound in India,

no different. NTOs and repre-

tion with key contacts.”

has continued to evolve in a

Iqbal Mulla, President, Travel

sentative from 35 countries

Drawing an interesting

Agents Association of India,

and Visit Britain being the

‘wedding’ analogy for what

by TNH DESK

istry Of Tourism, Sultanate of

tion has extensive representa-

better avatar year on year.

SATTE 2014 concludes in Mumbai The Mumbai edition of SATTE 2014 concluded in Mumbai. The event was inaugurated by Chhagan Bhujbal, Minister for Tourism, Maharashtra. SATTE

MumbaiWest,

Development

Corporation;

the fraternity on their respec-

which included two days of

Chhattisgarh Tourism Board;

tive states and their offerings

B2B meetings amongst the

West Bengal Tourism; Kar-

through destination briefings.

travel and tourism community

nataka Tourism; Tamil Nadu

With India emerging as one

from Western India, has signif-

Tourism;

Maharashtra

of the fastest growing travel

icantly grown in the last three

Tourism Development Corpo-

market, the NTOs are keen to

years of its existence. In its

ration; Kerala Tourism and

tap the potential of this seg-

Oman; Zagreb Tourist Board;

tion from the hospitality indus-

fourth edition, SATTE Mum-

Madhya

State

ment. With metros being the

Cambodia Ministry of Tourism;

try too. Leading hospitality

baiWest has to its credit, ex-

Tourism Development Corpo-

largest feeder markets and

Government of Dubai, Depart-

participants include the Anan-

hibitors

ration are some of the con-

Mumbai being one of the coun-

ment of Tourism & Commerce

tara Resorts & Spa; Atlantis

firmed participants.

try’s largest source markets in

Marketing; Turkish Culture &

The Palm Dubai; Singhotel An-

from

across

the

industry. State Tourism Boards

Pradesh

that are keen on expanding

Additionally, the State

the western region, the NTOs

Tourism Office and Tourism

daman; Hycith by Sparsa; Va-

business with the western re-

Tourism Boards of West Ben-

have participated in SATTE

Malaysia are among the names

sundhara Sarovar Premiere;

gion have joined hands to be a

gal and Maharashtra will lever-

MumbaiWest 2014 to further

that will be showcasing their

The Ambassador Hotel and

part of the trade show. Tourism

age the platform provided by

optimise the potential. Korea

destinations at the event.

entities such as Goa Tourism

SATTE MumbaiWest to update

Tourism Organization; Min-

MAR CH 201 4| TNH (TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY)

SATTE 2014 Mumbai edi-

Frasers Hospitality amongst others.

by TNH DESK

Tech News

TravelChaCha.com to boost business by leveraging technology and digital marketing TravelChaCha.com will review its business model thoroughly and try to enhance its business with the exhaustive use of technology and digital marketing.

“

2014 will be very refreshing especially with the advancement of technology and globalization. “We as an India based OTA expect to increase the trend of the tourist migration amalgamating with technology and royal hospitality for the leisure seeking travelers throughout the world.

“

Sanjay Bhasin, CEO, TravelChaCha.com

ur area of ex-

pecially in the online travel

pertise lies in

market space. In the presence

considerable rise in their re-

holiday

pack-

of tough online competition

ligious

ages whether it is wildlife

with every unique website of-

Bhasin.

“O

ing mobile apps have seen clientele,”

said

tours, hill stations, pilgrimage

fering its exquisite USP, cus-

Expectation from the

etc. We will thoroughly intro-

tomer satisfaction, as you

year 2014: 2014 will be very

spect our business model and

may find in every bible of

refreshing especially with the

try to enhance business with

management.”

advancement of technology

the exhaustive use of technol-

Important technological

and globalization. “We as an

ogy and use of digital market-

development/trend in On-

India based OTA expect to in-

ing

line travel space: “Techno-

crease the trend of the tourist

promulgating

the

business,” said Sanjay Bhasin,

logically,

migration amalgamating with

CEO, TravelChaCha.com, talk-

smartphones is the biggest

technology and royal hospi-

ing about plan of action of his

trend that has steered not

tality for the leisure seeking

only Online travel , but whole

travelers

of the hospitality , and speak-

world,” said Bhasin.

company in 2014. Giving an elaborate as-

the

boom

throughout

the

sessment of the last year with

ing in broader terms, it is

Performance of trav-

respect

travel

quite handy and convenient

elchacha.com in 2013: “We ,

agency, Bhasin said, “2013

to use bookings and knowl-

being based in the center of

was the year full of opportuni-

edge about any tour on a

south Asia have performed at

ties and expansions. OTA's

phone rather than on a laptop

par with international stan-

have observed increasing flow

, and with advanced 3G tech-

dards , and with our strategic

of tourists to the global

nologies , a majority of people

partnerships and innovative

events, world cups and natu-

now prefer to use mobile

measures are seeking to

ral heritage sites. We as an

apps

reach new heights as a stan-

OTA observed that the word of

promulgate their business,

dard OTA doing business

mouth plays a significant role

travel and lifestyle . Thus

from

in the influx of customers es-

those websites that are offer-

Bhasin.

online

RezNext partners with goibibo, India's fastest growing travel booking service goibibo will leverage RezNext’s technology platform to offer its customers real-time hotel booking services.

smartphones

South

Asia,”

said

by TNH DESK

goibibo is among the lead-

“goibibo is committed to

ing online travel agents to

ensuring our consumers have

adopt the RezNext real-time

a great experience. We are

distribution platform. “We

enthused about this partner-

are very happy with this part-

ship with RezNext and this

nership and excited about the

move is aligned with our con-

opportunity to offer the bene-

tinued efforts to enhance con-

fit of our real-time distribu-

sumer interaction on our site.

RezNext, the world’s only

technology is intelligently en-

tion technology to goibibo.

The RezNext technology plat-

true real-time distribution

gineered to distribute differ-

For goibibo this translates

form will allow us to offer the

company has announced its

ent room types and rates

into providing superior serv-

benefit of real-time hotel

partnership with goibibo, one

from the hotel’s property

ices to their customers, al-

booking functionality that

of the leading online travel

management solution to the

lowing

make

provides instantaneous con-

sites in India that enables

goibibo platform, allowing

bookings, modifications and

firmation from hotels directly

travelers to buy air and bus

goibibo to offer its consumers

cancellations all real-time

to our consumers. We are

tickets, hotels and holidays.

a wider choice for each hotel.

while completely automating

confident that this partner-

This partnership will allow

goibibo will also be able to

the otherwise labour inten-

ship will help us take our cus-

them

goibibo to display real-time

provide its consumers with

sive

processesassociated

tomer service several notches

hotel rates and inventory on

instantaneous booking con-

with bookings”, said Mike

higher and strengthen our

its site providing consumers

firmations sent directly from

Kistner, Chief Executive Offi-

leadership position in the

a better booking experience.

the hotel’s property manage-

cer, RezNext Global Solutions

market,” said Sanjay Bhasin,

ment system.

Pvt. Ltd.

CEO, goibibo.

The RezNext distribution

MA RC H 20 14 | TNH (TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY)

by TNH DESK

Tech News

World’s Best Islands recognized as Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice Award Winners

op Islands Revealed Based on

Reviews and Opinions of Mil-

lions of Travelers on TripAdvisor

beaches of Ko Tao, these winning islands have been highly rated from travelers around the globe.”

“

TripAdvisor®, the world’s largest travel site*, today announced the

There is something transporting about an island vacation, and these Travelers’ Choice Islands winners will help travelers find their next escape

winners of itsTravelers’ Choice Islands. In itssecond year, the annual awards recognize more than 100is-

Top 10 Islands in the World:

Top 10 Islands in APAC:

landsglobally, including top 10 lists

1.Ambergris Caye, Belize

1.Koh Tao, Thailand

for Africa, Asia, the Caribbean, Eu-

2.Providenciales, Turks and Caicos

2.Bali, Indonesia

rope, South America, the South Pa-

3.Bora Bora, French Polynesia

3.KohhPhangan, Thailand

cific andthe U.S.

4.Marco Island, Florida

4.KohLanta, Thailand

5.Lewis and Harris, Scotland

5.GiliTrawangan, Indonesia

6.Naxos, Greece 7.Aitutaki, Cook Islands

“

“There is something transporting about an island vacation, and

Travelers’ Choice Island winners

6.Boracay , Philippines

these Travelers’ Choice Islands

are determined based on the qual-

7.Phuket , Thailand

winners will help travelers find

ity and quantity of the most highly-

8.Nosy Be, Madagascar

8.Palawan, Philippines

their next escape,” said Barbara

rated hotels, restaurants, and

9.Easter Island, Chile

9.KohSamui, Thailand

Messing, chief marketing officer

attractions listed for each island on

10.Ko Tao, Thailand

10.Langkawi , Malaysia

for TripAdvisor. “From the coral

TripAdvisor gathered during a 12-

reefs of Ambergris Caye to the

month period.

Expedia Streamlines TAAP 3.0: Makes bookings more convenient for Travel Agents Expedia Travel Agent Affiliate Program (TAAP) has reaffirmed its commitment to provide the best booking platform with the rollout of the new TAAP portal in India.

by TNH DESK

tion the agent wants to send to

AirAsiaGo.com business across

the client and has the function-

Asia.

ality to mark upprice using “Add

In India, AirAsiaExpedia op-

fees”. The new TAAP website

erates Expedia.co.in, a full serv-

tracks all the bookings seam-

ice business helping Indian

lessly after the agent login and

travellers plan and book their

gives complete control to the

travel by offering them a com-

agent to edit/delete the profile

prehensive inventory of hotel

he new platform has been

information and change pass-

accommodation, flights and

word.

tourist attractions from across

the enhanced itinerary builder

highly praised by Travel

feature allows generation of un-

Agents now using the TAAP

branded vouchers for agents to

The TAAP team has already

the world. Its comprehensive in-

portal on a daily basis.

self-brand, print or forward to

rolled out new portals world-

ventory features more than

“The objective of the new plat-

their customers. The enhanced

line travel agent processes with features like single sign on and faster data access. We expect these modifications to help our agents to boost their business in a much easier and faster way,” says Vikram Malhi, GM, South and Southeast Asia, Expedia. The booking process using the Expedia website hasn’t changed but the log-in and back end

processes

have

been

streamlined significantly. Now

“

The objective of the new platform is to simplify and streamline travel agent processes with features like single sign on and faster data access. We expect these modifications to help our agents to boost their business in a much easier and faster way

“

form is to simplify and stream-

wide over the last few months

255,000 hotels, 438+ airlines

and went live in India today. For

and 7,500 holiday activities and

more information about Expe-

attractions from across the

dia TAAP go to http://www.expe-

world.

dia.co.in/TAAP-LearnMore. The

TAAP (Travel Agent Affiliate

launch in India is followed by

Program) is a program started

the launch in Italy and US.

by Expedia for Travel agents in

AirAsiaExpedia is the joint

2010. The program has over

venture company between the

80,000 agents worldwide and is

world's leading online travel

running successfully in 39

agency, Expedia Inc. and the

countries. The program helps

world's best low cost airline,

the agents to tap into Expedia

AirAsia. Headquartered in Sin-

inventory and offers commis-

gapore, AirAsiaExpedia oper-

sion on Hotels, Packages, Activ-

ates Expedia’s businesses in

ities

and

Car

Hires

the Login,in new TAAP web-

itinerary builder also allows the

India, Japan, Southeast Asia

(http://www.expedia.co.in/TAA

site,is a single step process and

agent to edit/delete the informa-

and East Asian markets and the

P-LearnMore).

MAR CH 201 4| TNH (TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY)

by TNH DESK

Tech News

Eighty percent of TripAdvisor users read at least six to 12 reviews before selecting a hotel

pAdvisor users aren’t just

“makes me more likely to book

dents avoid eating at restau-

looking at accommodation op-

it (versus a comparable hotel

rants that do not have any re-

tions: 77 percent usually or al-

that didn't respond to trav-

views.

ways reference TripAdvisor

ellers)”.

reviews before selecting a hotel, 50 percent usually or always reference TripAdvisor

Independent Study of more than 12,000 global respondents reveals online travel review trends. 2 in 3 more likely to book hotel with management responses to reviews.

Why review?

How many reviews is

The majority of respondents

enough?

write reviews for positive rea-

reviews before selecting a

When researching places to

sons, with 74 percent of trav-

restaurant and 44 percent usu-

stay on TripAdvisor, 80 per-

ellers stating that they ‘feel

ally or always reference Tri-

cent of respondents read at

good about sharing useful in-

pAdvisor

least 6-12 reviews before mak-

formation with other trav-

ing their decision, and they’re

ellers’

reviews

before

selecting an attraction.

and

percentof

The survey also reveals some

most interested in recent re-

respondents stating that they

world’s

interesting findings about why

views that will give them the

wanted to share a good expe-

largest travel site, recently an-

travellers write reviews, how

freshest feedback.

rience with other travellers’.

nounced the results of an inde-

they use them when planning

When researching restaurants

Hotel Price Comparison (meta

pendent

a trip and the impact manage-

or local attractions on TripAd-

search) saves time and helps

TripAdvisor,

the

study

that

underscores how essential on-

ment responses have on their

visor, one in five (20%) trav-

to find the right price: When

line traveller reviews are in the

perceptions

ellers read over 11 reviews

asked about TripAdvisor’s re-

research and booking process.

“There is no denying that re-

before making a decision.

cently launched Hotel Price

properties.

The commissioned report, con-

views are a powerful and sig-

ducted by PhoCusWright on

nificant part of the travel

behalf of TripAdvisor, was con-

planning experience,” com-

ducted at the end of 2013, and

ments

Messing,

We know reviews are impor-

during my planning process’

reveals that more than half of

chief marketing officer, Tri-

tant – so important in fact that

and 52 percent agree that Tri-

Barbara

Comparison function (meta How travellers use re-

search), 51 percent agree that

views?

it ‘has helped me save time

global respondents do not

pAdvisor. “The results of this

more than half of respondents

pAdvisor’s meta search ‘has

want to make a booking com-

study showcase the vital part

(53%) will not book a hotel that

helped me find the right hotel at the right price’.

mitment until they read re-

reviews play, reinforce the idea

does not have reviews. But

views and find out what other

that we are becoming more so-

how do travellers interpret re-

travellers thought about the

cial as travellers and demon-

views? When asked how they

strate the essential nature of

tend to use TripAdvisor, a few

reviews to hospitality busi-

key elements came to the fore-

TripAdvisor users in Italy

property. According to the study, re-

How do we differ across the globe?

spondents turn to TripAdvisor

nesses. Not only are travellers

front: traveller submitted pho-

are among the most active

on a regular basis. Twenty

referencing reviews before

tos and TripAdvisor awards

restaurant review readers.

nine percent visit the site sev-

they book, they are clearly

can tip the scale for properties,

Seventy five percent “al-

eral times a month, 12 percent

more highly engaged by busi-

but in general, extreme com-

ways” or “usually” refer-

say they check the site at least

nesses that respond to re-

ments in reviews are ignored.

ence

once a week and 26 percent

views.”

TripAdvisor

before

When asked about traveller

choosing a restaurant, fol-

regularly use the site more

Management responses in-

submitted photos, 73 percent

lowed by Spain (60%), UK

than once a week. Overall, this

creasingly important: 87 per-

of respondents said they look

(53%) and the U.S. (46%).

means that 67 percent of re-

cent of users agree that an

at these as they help them

When browsing reviews on

spondents check TripAdvisor

appropriate management re-

make choices. 65 percent of re-

TripAdvisor, respondents are

a few times a month or more.

sponse to a bad review “im-

spondents are more likely to

most likely focus on recent

More than 80 percent say the

proves my impression of the

book hotels that win awards

reviews (both positive and

site’s reviews help them feel

hotel”. 70 percent of users

from TripAdvisor. 64 percent

negative) to get the freshest

more confident in their travel

agree that an aggressive/de-

of respondents tend to ignore

perspective. Respondents in

decisions, and help them to

fensive management response

extreme comments when read-

Russia and Japan were the

have a better trip. Of those

to a bad review “makes me

ing reviews. And the impor-

only two markets to prefer to

polled, 93 percent of respon-

less likely to book that hotel”.

tance of reviews is not limited

read a lot of reviews (multi-

dents feel that a hotel stay is

62 percentof users agree that

to hotels – restaurants need

ple pages) to get an overall

very important to the overall

seeing hotel management re-

them too. According to the

sense of people’s opinions.

trip experience. However, Tri-

sponses to reviews generally

study, 31 percent of respon-

MAR CH 201 4| TNH (TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY)

by TNH DESK

Tech News

RezLive.com has successful SATTE New Delhi Rezlive.com part of India’s leading travel group i.e Travel designer group, had a successful SATTE in New Delhi, January, 2014.

for us. We managed to expand our footprint on the Indian market. Excellent client engagement and networking along with new product of-

Ezeego1.com expands its footprint in Gujarat Opens its second franchise store in Ahmedabad.

fering were the key areas we Ezeego1.com has inaugu-

fered on the website. With the

rated a new franchise store at

new launch, Ezeego1.com will

Anandnagar in Ahmedabad,

have a combined strength of 16

lights of the event are: 213

Gujarat. This is Ezeego1.com’s

franchisees in India.

client meetings, New con-

second franchise store in the

tracts with leading hotel

city, and its third in Gujarat.

Neelu

chains, New product sourc-

Currently, Ezeego1.com has

Ezeego1.com said, “This is our

ing options, and Platform to

operational stores in Surat

third launch in Gujarat within

managed to benefit from while exhibiting.” Some of the key high-

Speaking on the launch, Singh,

COO,

expand our footprint on the

and Navrangpura in Ahmed-

a short span of two years. This

Indian market.

abad. The franchise is located

signifies that Gujarat is one of

RezLive.com is one of the

at B-204, Titanium City Center,

the priority markets in our ex-

few wholesalers who offer

100 Feet Anandnagar Road,

pansion strategy. The new

single feed to 1, 25,000+ In-

Satellite, Ahmedabad – 380

store will be an extension of

ternational rooms around

015. The store will provide

our website and will cater to

the world, offering you real

travel services such as flight

those customers who are more

Jaal Shah, Group Manag-

time access to rooms that

tickets, hotel booking, car

comfortable with the conven-

ing Director at RezLive.com

are available at the best net

rentals, holiday packages, rail,

tional way of making travel

says, “SATTE 2014 was a

rates.

cruise, bus, sightseeing, visa

bookings, be it tickets or holi-

and insurance, which are of-

day packages.”

Vidur Singal CEO, RoombookPro.com

face, google maps integration,

fruitful and successful event

RoombookPro.com announces Register..Book..Win..! Incentive offer for agents: Roombookpro.com has initiated a new promotion called Register..Book..Win..! to continuously benefit agents. RoomBookPro.com offers

and the travel industry en-

more than 400,000 properties

ables the portal to provide the

best possible price – says

15,000

destinations

throughout the world. Room-

Vidur Singal – CEO, Room-

BookPro’s robust booking en-

bookPro.com

by TNH DESK

to use and uncluttered inter-

“

street view function area and location search with multiple

RoombookPro is an accommodation specialist booking portal and our endeavour is to benefit agents as much as possible by providing best available accommodation rates and rewards for booking accommodation as well

Hotel options, multiple currency selection option - USD, GBP, EURO, INR, direct email to client facility with mark-up (from search result page) and white-labeling / API connection.

agents to make bookings at

RoombookPro modest fea-

superior NET rates with pre-

tures aim to provide a seam-

payment and pay-at-hotel op-

less experience to agents.

“

tions.

Some of the key features of the

clusive costing with no hidden

A simple process where

RoombookPro are:

Exclu-

charges, transparent cancella-

agents need to register on

sively B2B, Pay at Hotel, all in-

tion and refund policies, easy

www.roombookpro.com

gine and backend facilitates

Roombookpro’s strategic partnerships with hotel chains

To continuously benefit agents,

Roombookpro.com

has initiated a new promotion for

agents

providing their official details. As registered agents on Roombookpro, agents can book hotels and win exciting prizes such as Apple iPods, iPhone and iPad.

by TNH DESK

MA R CH 2014| TNH (TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY)

Government News

Whiff of a dyingart at Dilli Haat, Pitampura Lectures and demonstration on Aromatherapy and Panchkarma woos Delhiites. heady scent of heritage is

in the air of Dilli Haat,

Pitampura as the Itra and Sugandhi Mela, 2014 (forth in series) entered its second day. The fragrances of different perfumes, essential oils and Itra

will surely attract towards this

fruitful for life. The seminar was

The second day of the festival

unique event organized by Delhi

very well attended by visitors as

saw thousands of visitors who

Tourism which has brought al-

they were able to get light on

came from all parts of the city to

most 40 perfumers from across

Aromatherapy which can heal

witness these display of exotic

the country.

arthiritis, muscular pain, si-

perfumes which is a rarity to

nuses, stress, insomnia etc.

find in the city.

Whether it’s the aroma of food or a mild and enticing

This festival has given an op-

redolence of flowers, fragrance

(For Relaxation) Podhikizhi

portunity to the visitors to inter-

always invokes nostalgia like

(For Joint Pains) and Nasyam

act with people who are directly

nothing else does. The sole pur-

(For Sinuses and Migraine)

involved in this industry. It has

pose to organize this festival of

were the show stealer today.

also provided an opportunity to

fantastic fragrances is to revive

These sessions enlightened the

visitors to acquire knowledge

this age old dying tradition and

visitors about panchkarma and

about the benefits of aro-

to provide perfume lovers an

how these use of essential oils

matherapy and ayurveda.

opportunity to explore the tra-

and ayurveda can heal one’s

ditional aromas.

life.

If you are a fragrance lover,

The third day of the event will have live demonstrations on

The charm of the festival went

Aromatherapy,

Panchkarma

these years Itra and Sugandhi

on a high note as experts,

etc. There will be Seminars by

Mela has it all. Apart from the

whose family has an ancestral

expert therapists followed by a

display and sale of exotic per-

history in perfumery art, show-

Q&A session. A Quiz Competi-

fumes, itras, essential oils the

cased their works on Kuppi

tion on Itra and Sugandhi will

lectures and live sessions on

Making, Agarbatti and Dhoop-

also be held at 3.00 PM tomor-

Aromatherapy

MA RC H 20 14 | TNH (TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY)

Sessions on Abhayangan

and

battis etc. This Festival saw

row. The evening of the conclud-

Panchkarma enlightened the

high participation from ‘Kan-

ing day will be marked by a

visitors at Dilli Haat, Pitam-

nauj’, which is known to be the

cultural program by Punjabi

pura. Malini Ohri from Dubai

natural fragrance hub.

Academy which will be followed

who is the founder of Saante

A quiz competition on Itra

by prize distribution ceremony.

(Range of natural, aromather-

and Sugandhi for children’s was

If you are fond of natural per-

apy & chemical free products)

also held today. Slogan writing

fumes, itras and scented prod-

gave a lecture on Aromatherapy

competition

ucts, then Dilli Haat Pitampura

and explained the visitors about

Sugandhi is also going on at the

is the perfect place to be this

its benefits and how it can be

venue.

weekend.

Itra

and

by TNH DESK

Government News

Fantasy in God’s Own Country Kerala Tourism is determined to hike the current tourist flow in the state with a series of interesting and ambitious projects.

gallor in Thrissur district. Other prominent projects in the pipeline are Spice Route Revival and “Great Backwaters”. The Spice Route Revival project would connect the

n an attempt to rekindle the

two-millennium-old

spice

interest of tourists, Kerala

route linking the Malabar

Tourism has initiated two

Coast of India to Europe with

much-coveted projects- Sea-

the support of United Nations

plane and Project Muziris that

World Tourism Organization

would

(UNWTO).

offer

mesmerizing

travel experience to tourists. Seaplane Project intends to enhance the last mile connectivity by air across the state while Project Muziris is aimed to offer a fillip to the historical significance of the legendary port of Muziris with 25 museums to flaunt the heritage of Muziris.

Snapshot New Projects of Kerala Tourism: •Seaplane Project •Project Muziris •Spice Route Revival •Natventure •Great Backwaters •Home of Ayurveda

boats. Our stress is to push

has been consistent 8 per cent

the infrastructure and mar-

growth in the flow of domestic

keting of tourism projects. We

and global tourists last year.”

are eyeing to bring a surge in

Kerala had around 7.94 lakh

current tourist arrival in the

global tourists and 1 crore In-

state. MICE tourism has gone

dian visitors in 2012.

up in the state.”

The state today figures high

Kerala Tourism has been

as 365-day destination and

holding road shows in Indian

has emerged as a top-ranking

metros and in global destina-

tourist destination in the

tions since 1996. Prasanth

world of Google surpassing

The state has three inter-

Another significant project is

said, “We are reaching out to

Taj Mahal. The department of

national airports including

Natventure that comprises

20 Indian cities with our roads

tourism has also kicked off a

Trivandrum,

and

soft adventure holidays in jun-

shows this year including tier-

novel campaign- Home of

Cochin and the Seaplane proj-

gles, beaches, backwaters and

I and tier-II cities. The United

Ayurveda and Bekal has been

ect would provide service in

hill resorts. T V Prasanth,

States,

Kingdom,

identified as a new destina-

the priority circuit and the

Tourist Information Officer,

France Germany and the Mid-

tion for Ayurveda in north

destinations like Astamudi,

Kerala Tourism informed,

dle East are our prime global

Kerala. The state has ear-

Punnamada, Kumarakom, Bo-

“Backwaters are our unique

markets. Gujarat has the most

marked and prepared project

gatty

Project

products and we are boosting

number of tourists visiting

reports to develop around 40

Muziris would stretch out

the travel trade industry for

Kerala. Tourists mostly prefer

new-found destinations within

from North Paravur in the dis-

the growth of tourism. Con-

to travel to Munnar, Wayanad

a period of five years.

trict of Ernakulam to Kodun-

ventions are held in house-

and Kovalam in Kerala. There

and

Calicut

Bekal.

United

by TNH DESK

MA R CH 2014| TNH (TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY)

Government News

Manipur alone got funds for winter festivals Manipur is the only State has been sanctioned funds for winter festivals in the last three years and current year, informed Minister of State for Tourism, Dr. K. Chiranjeevi, in a written reply to the Lok Sabha.

Ministry

Territory Administrations

Tourism (MOT) pro-

for various tourism projects

vides Central Financial As-

including Fairs, Festivals

sistance (CFA) to various

and Tourism related events,

State

Governments/Union

prioritized in consultation with them. A maximum of Rs.50.00 lakh to a State Government and Rs.30.00 lakh to UT Administration can be provided as CFA for Fairs & Festivals in a financial year. Out of this a maximum of Rs.25.00 lakh per fair/festival/event

the

case of a State and Rs.15.00 lakh in the case of a Union Territory can be provided by MOT.

by TNH DESK

Amount Sanctioned for Winter Festivals during the last 3 years and current year (Rs. in lakh)

Three circuits identified to be developed as Buddhist Circuits

ignated circuits, efforts have

amenities to tourists. The

Government of India, the De-

Three identified circuits to be developed as Buddhist Circuits are the Dharmayatra or the Sacred Circuit, extended Dharmayatra or extended Sacred Circuit or Retracing Buddha’s Footsteps, and Buddhist Heritage Trails (State Circuits).

Ministry of Tourism (MOT)

partments of Tourism of the

The validity of this loan period

been made to plug infrastruc-

has been extended till July

ture gaps viz- rail/road link-

2014.

ages

and

provide

better

The Ministry of Tourism,

provides Central Financial

Governments of Bihar and

Assistance (CFA) for tourism

Uttar Pradesh and Interna-

projects, including projects for

tional Finance Corporation

he Ministry of Tourism

(Bodhgaya), Varanasi (Sar-

Buddhist sites, based on the

(World Bank Group) have en-

(MOT) has been identify-

nath), Kushinagar, Piparva

proposals received from State

tered into an agreement to co-

ing integrated tourism circuits

(Kapilvastu) with a day trip to

Governments/UT Administra-

operate in upgrading the

based on India’s unique civi-

Lumbini in Nepal, Circuit 2.

tions which are complete in all

quality of services and goods

lization, heritage, and culture

Extended Dharmayatra or Ex-

respects as per the Scheme

provided for tourists along the

including Buddhist Tourism in

tended Sacred Circuit or Re-

Guidelines, inter-se priority

Buddhist Circuits in UP and

partnership with States, the

tracing Buddha’s Footsteps -

and subject to availability of

Bihar. Under this agreement,

private sector and other agen-

This will be a 10 to 15 day cir-

funds. The development, pro-

the signatories are designing

cies. In a written reply in the

cuit and will include visits to

motion and implementation of

a strategy aimed at a broader

Lok Sabha, Dr. K. Chiranjeevi

Bodhgaya (Nalanda, Rajgir,

tourism projects, is primarily

integrated Buddhist Circuit

Minister of State for Tourism

Barabar caves, Pragbodhi

the responsibility of the re-

Tourism Development Project,

informed that MoT has identi-

Hill, Gaya), Patna (Vaishali,

spective

for both Buddhist pilgrims and

fied following three circuits to

Lauriya Nandangarh, Lauriya

Government/Union Territory

those wishing to experience

be developed as Buddhist Cir-

Areraj, Kesariya, Patna Mu-

Administration (UT). A loan

the essence of Buddhist her-

cuits in the country with the

seum), Varanasi (Sarnath),

agreement for an amount

itage. To showcase India’s ad-

help

Government/State

State

Central

Kushinagar, Piparva (Kapil-

equivalent to Japanese Yen

vantage in having several

Govern-

vastu, Shravasti, Sankisa)

7331 million was signed in the

Buddhist sites and to make a

ment/Private stake holders:

with a day trip to Lumbini in

year 2003 with Japan Interna-

new initiative in the emerging

Circuit 1. The Dharmayatra

Nepal, and Circuit 3. Buddhist

tional Cooperation Agency

area of spiritual tourism, Min-

or the Sacred Circuit - This

Heritage Trails (State Cir-

(JICA) for Phase II of Ajanta

istry of Tourism regularly or-

will be a 5 to 7 days circuit

cuits).

Ellora

and will include visits to Gaya

MA RC H 20 14 | TNH (TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY)

While identifying the des-

Conservation

and

Tourism Development Project.

ganizes Buddhist Conclaves and Conferences.

by TNH DESK

Government News

Bhava’. The campaign con-

MoT has taken many steps to stop harassment of tourists in the country

sists of two commercials; one on sensitizing against misbehavior with tourists and the other against cleanliness of

The ‘Public Order’ and ‘Police’ being state subjects, prevention of crime, including crime against tourists/foreign tourists is the primary responsibility of the State Governments/Union Territories. The Ministry of Tourism does not compile data on crime against foreign and domestic tourists as such. However.

he Ministry of Tourism

of Andhra Pradesh, Goa, Kar-

tourist sites and streets. The National Tourism Ministers’ Conference was convened on 18th July, 2013 in New Delhi which resolved; that the Departments of Tourism of all

has taken many steps in

nataka, Kerala, Maharashtra,

States and UTs will work for

order to ensure safety and se-

Himachal Pradesh, Rajasthan,

curity of tourists, informed

Jammu & Kashmir, Uttar

Dr. K. Chiranjeevi Minister of State for Tourism

ensuring the safety and secu-

Minister of State for Tourism

Pradesh, Delhi, Punjab, Mad-

be undertaken with respect

women. An advisory has been

(I/C) Dr. K. Chiranjeevi in a

hya Pradesh and Odisha have

for basic right like dignity,

posted on the Ministry of

rity of tourists, especially

written reply to a question in

deployed Tourist Police, in one

safety and freedom from ex-

Tourism website www.incredi-

the recently concluded session

form or the other. The Ministry

ploitation of both tourists and

bleindia.org indicating that

of the Rajya Sabha . The Min-

of Tourism along with all

local residents in particular,

India remains safe destination

istry of Tourism in consulta-

stakeholders, including the

women and children. Ministry

for international Tourists in-

tion

Tourism Departments of all

of Tourism is running the So-

cluding women tourists. The

with

the

State

Governments/UT Administra-

States and UTs, have adopted

cial Awareness Campaign on

Stake holders have identified

tions had proposed to set up

the ‘Code of Conduct for Safe

television to sensitize the

focal points in their respective

Tourist Police at prominent

& Honourable Tourism’ which

masses and the stakeholders

organizations to implement the

tourist spots. The State Gov-

is a set of guidelines to en-

on the traditional Indian val-

‘Code of Conduct for Safe & Ho-

ernments/UT Administrations

courage tourism activities to

ues and concept ‘Atithi Devo

nourable Tourism’. by TNH DESK

Number of tourist availing of VoA Scheme INDO-JAPAN cooperation grows by 12.6% in January, 2014 in tourism promotion A growth of 12.60 % has been recorded in the number of tourists availing of the tourist Visa on Arrival (VoA) Scheme during the period January 2014. T A he Ministry of Tourism,

Tour Operators; to establish

Government of India and

exchange programmes for co-

the Japan Tourism Agency;

operation in Human Resource

Ministry of Land, Infrastruc-

Development; to exchange vis-

total number of 1,903

scheme during January 2014

VoAs have been issued in

for nationals of the eleven

this period as compared to

countries was New Zealand

tourists to India, Government

ture, Transport and Tourism,

its

1,690 VoAs during the corre-

(465), Japan (427), the Philip-

launched the “Visa on Ar-

Government of Japan have

/Media/Opinion Makers for pro-

sponding period of 2012 regis-

pines (290), Singapore (273),

rival” (VoA) Scheme in Janu-

signed a Memorandum for

motion of two way tourism; to

tering a growth of 12.60 per

Indonesia

Finland

ary 2010 for citizens of five

strengthening cooperation in

exchange experiences in the

cent. The other important

(124), Cambodia (20), Myan-

countries, viz. Finland, Japan,

the field of Tourism.

areas of promotion, marketing,

highlights of VoAs issued dur-

mar (20), Vietnam (15), Lux-

Luxembourg, New Zealand

The main objectives of the

destination development and

ing January 2014: (i) During

embourg (12) and Laos (0).

and Singapore, visiting India

Memorandum are as: to expand

management; to participate in

the month of January 2014, a

(iii) During January 2014, the

for tourism purposes. The

bilateral cooperation in tourism

travel fairs/exhibitions in each

total of 1,903 VoAs were is-

highest number of VoAs were

Scheme was extended to the

sector; to encourage their citi-

other’s country; and to promote

sued under this Scheme as

issued at New Delhi airport

citizens of six more countries,

zens to travel to each other’s

safe, honourable and sustain-

compared to 1,690 VoAs dur-

(783) followed by Mumbai

namely Cambodia, Indonesia,

country; to exchange informa-

able tourism. Japan is an im-

ing the month of January

(440), Chennai (282), Kolkata

Vietnam,

Philippines,

tion and data related to

portant tourism generating

2013, registering a growth of

(126), Bangalore (116), Kochi

Laos and Myanmar in Janu-

tourism; to encourage coopera-

source market for India partic-

12.6%. (ii) The number of

(68), Hyderabad (62) and

ary 2011.

tion between tourism stake-

ularly considering our Buddhist

VoAs

Trivandrum (26).

holders including Hotels and

Heritage.

issued

under

this

(257),

As a facilitative measure

attract

the

foreign

by TNH DESK

Tour

Operators

by TNH DESK

MA R CH 2014| TNH (TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY)

Event Watch

MoT gives away the National Tourism Awards 2012-13 In a glittering award ceremony in New Delhi, Shashi Tharoor, Minister of State for Human Resource Development recently gave away The National Tourism Awards 2012-13 to winners. A total number of 86 awards have been given in various categories. The National Tourism Awards are given annually by the Ministry of Tourism to felicitate outstanding work in different fields of tourism.

MA RC H 20 14 | TNH (TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY)

Event Watch

MA R CH 2014| TNH (TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY)

Event Watch

MAR CH 201 4| TNH (TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY)

Government News

MTDC and MEHAIR launch amphibian plane services from Mumbai to boost tourism The Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC) and Maritime Energy Heli Air Services Pvt Ltd (MEHAIR) launched the first seaplane service of Maharashtra in Mumbai. he company’s amphibian

Executive Director Worker, Sa-

planes will eventually

hara India Pariwar and Chief

connect Mumbai with state

Executive Officer Ambay Val-

tourist destinations adjacent

ley City and Hotel Sahara Star.

to suitable water bodies even

Chhagan Chandrakant

though there are no runways

Bhujbal, Minister (Tourism

at these destinations.

and Public Works), Maharash-

The service will save a lot of

tra, stated, “Government of

service thus benefiting the

residents and property owners

impetus to the tourism initia-

travel time for the users given

Maharashtra is pleased to an-

tourists who come to Maha-

within Ambay Valley by offer-

tive of the Government of Ma-

that the aircraft will take a far

nounce the launch of seaplane

rashtra from all over the

ing a quick and exciting mode

harashtra. This venture was

lesser time to connect two

services for commuters in Ma-

world.”

of transport from Mumbai.

only possible with the tremen-

points as opposed to road or

harashtra. These services will

MEHAIR plans to soon have a

dous support from the MTDC”

Jagdish Patil, Managing Di-

rail journeys. MTDC has en-

provide ease to the tourist and

rector, Maharashtra Tourism

full-fledged commuter service

Siddharth Verma – Director &

tered into an understanding

locals who travel to various

Development

from Juhu to Nariman Point

Co-Founder MEHAIR said.

Corporation

with MEHAIR to launch the

tourist destinations of Maha-

(MTDC), said, "These services

which is the star attraction and

service in the state by extend-

rashtra. Mehair has come-up

will boost tourism greatly. Sea-

is much awaited by the people

ations

ing its full support thus helping

with this novel concept and we

planes will turn vacation desti-

jostling with the heavy traffic of

MEHAIR will gradually roll out

to engulf the vast vision and

are happy that Maharashtra is

nations

weekend

Mumbai.” The first commercial

its service to destinations like

encumbrance of this venture.

the first state to have such a

destinations. The fatigue and

flight will be flagged off to the

Ambay Valley lake, Gangapur

The service was launched by

service in the mainland of

expenditure involved in reach-

tourist destination of Ambay

Dam (Nashik), Mula Dam

Hon'ble Minister (Tourism and

India.”

ing these destinations will also

Valley which is the first ap-

(Meherabad/Shirdi),

come down drastically."

proved seaplane waterdrome

Dam (Lonavla), Varasgaon

in the mainland of India.

Dam (Lavasa) and Dhoom Dam

Public Works), Government of

Ranjit Kamble, Minister of

into

In the first phase of its operin

Maharashtra,

Pawna

Maharashtra Shri Chhagan

State

Public

Satish Soni - Director Tourism

Chandrakant Bhujbal. Func-

Works), Government of Maha-

Government of Maharashtra,

The seaplane service is being

(Panchgani/Mahabaleshwar).

(Tourism

tion presided by Shri Ranjit

rashtra stated, “It is a proud

adds, “We welcome the launch

launched in Maharashtra with

In the second phase of the op-

Kamble Hon’ble Minister of

feeling for me as it a gift from

of seaplanes in Maharashtra as

a Cessna 206 Amphibian and

eration MEHAIR will connect

State

the Tourism Department of

it will add a new dimension to

another Cessna 208 Amphibian

Mumbai with Konkan coast

(Tourism

Public

Works), Government of Maha-

Maharashtra to the people of

the tourism potential of the

aircraft will be inducted by

like Ganpatiphule, Hariharesh-

rashtra. In the presence of

the state. We expect that this

state. It would be a more scenic

Apr’14. Both these two models

war, Tarkarli and Murud Jan-

and faster travel option.”

Sumit Mullick - IAS, Additional

exciting mode of transport will

Chief Secretary & Chief Proto-

be well received in Maharash-

col Officer Government of Ma-

tra.”

can accommodate 4 to 9 pas-

jira. This will be followed by

Speaking on the occasion

sengers respectively. "This is a

flights from Mumbai to Marath-

Vivek Kumar, Executive Di-

new and exciting mode of

wada and ecologically rich sec-

harashtra, Dr Jagdish Patil -

Sumit Mullick, IAS, Addi-

rector Worker Sahara India

transport which will provide

tor like Vidarbha.

IAS Managing Director MTDC,

tional Chief Secretary & Chief

Pariwar and Chief Executive

the last mile connectivity to

Fliers can book seats on these

Mr Satish Soni - Director

Protocol Officer, Government

Officer Ambay Valley City and

those areas where there is no

exciting sectors exclusively on

(Tourism), Government of Ma-

of Maharashtra said, “Situated

Hotel Sahara Star said, “Sea-

airport but are popular tourist

the official website of the com-

harashtra, Siddharth Verma –

in India, Maharashtra is a di-

plane services will add to the

destinations. A seaplane is a

pany i.e. http://www.mehair.in/

Co-Founder

verse landscape ideally suited

attraction of the Ambay Valley

quick, convenient and exciting

with effect from 10th March

MEHAIR and Mr. Vivek Kumar,

Director

to be connected by a seaplane

and will cater to the tourists,

mode of travel which will lend

2014.

by TNH DESK

MA R CH 2014| TNH (TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY)

Government News

Imagery of monuments released to bring India’s Heritage online

India and to tell their stories

the richness of India’s heritage

using the latest technologies

and culture. Thanks to the com-

available.

bined efforts of ASI and the

Union Ministry of Culture has released first set of imagery of monuments for bringing India’s Heritage online.

I have been told that this is

Ministry of Culture, the Hill

one of the most unique cultural

Forts of Rajasthan were con-

itage sites present across

globally, a powerful reminder of

partnerships entered into by

ferred the status of World Her-

handresh Kumari Katoch,

for the nation. Therefore, I am

Google with the widest range

itage Sites by UNESCO last

Union Minister of Culture

very happy to be here to cele-

of monuments covered under a

year.

recently released first set of

brate the successful culmina-

single national project under-

I am glad that the Ministry

imagery of monuments for

tion of an agreement that the

taken by them and a matter of

had the chance to work with

pride for us all.

Google’s Cultural Institute and

bringing India’s Heritage on-

Ministry of Culture and the

line. Speaking on the occasion,

Archeological Survey of India

Today, this project makes it

helped launch the India chapter

Katoch said, “I would like to

(ASI) entered into with Google

possible for billions of people

of the Google Art Project in

extend a warm welcome to all

in 2013.

of you for today’s event. In its

Last year, in the backdrop

across the world to see and ex-

2012 featuring the National Mu-

plore our magnificent heritage

seum and the National Gallery

in the virtual world.

of Modern Art. We hope to con-

152nd year, it is commendable

of one of India’s world heritage

that the ASI is taking forward

sites, the Qutub Minar, I had

As you are aware, the Min-

tinue working with Google, to

its mission of embracing part-

announced the flagging-off of

istry of Culture’s aim is to pre-

bring more of the richness of

nerships for the future in order

this exciting partnership to-

serve,

and

India’s archeological heritage

to preserve and propagate the

wards Bringing India’s Her-

disseminate India’s art and cul-

online in order to improve the

rich heritage of India’s past. In

itage Online. Over the last few

ture. The last year has seen a

visitor experience to our her-

the UPA’s 2012-2013 Report to

months, teams from Google

number of celebrations and

itage sites globally via the Inter-

the People, Culture was listed

and the ASI have worked to-

successes

cultural

net. I request you to join me in

promote,

the

under the “New Horizons”

gether to digitize and make

sphere. Our national icons such

celebrating the success of this

chapter of our Government’s

available the experience of vis-

project and taking it to new

statement of work being done

iting the many wonderful her-

Vivekananda are celebrated

India and Poland Agree for Collaboration in Culture Sector

both sides and develop an operational plan; Poland will provide opportunity to young artists from India to perform at newly constructed Krysztof

India and Poland have agreed for deepening collaboration in culture sector covering diverse activities including conservation, museums, archaeology, archives, science museums, and performing arts.

Amrita

Shergil

and

heights.”

by TNH DESK

Luxury cruise liner to Varanasi and Dhaka he West Bengal gov-

like air-conditioned cabins,

Penderecki Luslawice Na-

ernment has signed

salon, spa, library and din-

tional Music Hall and provide

MoU with luxury cruise

ing room. Other facilities

scholarships for emerging tal-

liner to kick off river cruise

on the cards would be cook-

ents;

from Kolkata to Varanasi

ery classes, yoga sessions

The two countries shall

for tourists. The state gov-

and lectures on the board.

he details of the collabo-

heritage sites, namely the Taj

develop collaboration in Mu-

ernment also plans to begin

The Indo-Bangla protocol

ration were discussed

Mahal, the Red Fort and the

seum Management. Particular

similar Indo-Bangla proto-

route would give a chance

recently in a meeting between

Qutub Minar. During their 45-

emphasis will be given for de-

col route that would take

Secretary Culture, Ravindra

minutes meeting, the two

velopment of collaboration

tourists from Kolkata to

glimpse of the Sundarbans.

Singh and the visiting Deputy

sides agreed for collaboration

with the National Science Cen-

Dhaka in the coming period

Once the riverine route

Minister of Culture and Na-

in the following areas:

tional Heritage of Poland Prof.

Malgorzata

visitors

have

tre New Delhi. The two shall de-

and connect both the coun-

takes

In the run-up to the sign-

velop collaboration in Archives

tries through the river

around five days for a con-

transport system.

off,

will

take

tainer to reach Dhaka since

Omi-

ing of the Cultural Exchange

and Modern Art. The two sides

lanowska. Prof. Malgorzata

Program between India and

agreed to identify projects for

The luxury vessel will

Omilanowska, who is on the

Poland,

Working

restoration. The Polish side ex-

be replete with a hotel in it-

would be much less than

last day of her 5 day visit to

Group will be set up to iden-

pressed interest in restoration

self and there would be

the present day.

India, appreciated the world

tify specific deliverables from

work in Gaya.

state-of-the-art amenities

MAR CH 201 4| TNH (TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY)

Joint

by TNH DESK

the

distance

traversed

by TNH DESK

Government News

Festivals of India held in ASEAN countries The Union Ministry of Culture organized the Festivals of India in Laos PDR and Cambodia.

malayan region. This is con-

nance and up-gradation work of

Imperial Capital Cities has been

ducted to further disseminate

museums under Archaeological

submitted to World Heritage

Buddha’s messages in the

Survey of India (ASI) is also at-

Centre for inscription in World

world. The Buddhist Mahotsava

tended within the allocated re-

Heritage List in January, 2014.

was presented by Central Insti-

sources.

protected

In a written reply in the

tute of Himalayan Culture Stud-

monuments

museums

Rajya Sabha today Smt. Katoch

The and

ies Dahoo, Arunachal Pradesh.

under ASI are in a good state of

said, the whole process may

he Festivals of India in

A Food Festival:

preservation.

take more than one and a half

Laos PDR was held from

Indian cuisine Festival encom-

In a written reply in the

years after submission of

February 9 to11, 2014 and in

passing a wide variety of re-

Rajya Sabha Katoch said, sim-

dossier, Involving evaluation re-

Cambodia from February 14

gional cuisines, native to India

ilarly, the museums under the

port of ICOMOS mission, deci-

to19, 2014. The Indian delega-

was presented as part of the

Ministry of Culture are in a

sion

tion to the Festivals of India was

Festival of India. The Food Fes-

good state. However, to further

Committee which evaluates

led by Secretary Culture, Ravin-

tival was presented by Ministry

improve, expand and modern-

each point/issue very critically

dra Singh. An artiste delegation

of Tourism.

ize them, Indian Museum,

i.e.

Kolkata has undertaken a mod-

Value, Integrity and Authentic-

of 75 artistes would be participating in the Festivals. The two festivals comprises Chandresh Kumari Katoch Union Minister of Culture

of the following: Dance

Festival:

Classical

Mehendi Art and Yoga:

World

Outstanding

Heritage

Universal

Mehendi artists from the South

ernization and up-gradation

ity of site, Management mecha-

Zone Cultural Centre and Yoga

project at a cost of `99.76

nisms, legal provisions, issues

teachers from Department of

crores. Victoria Memorial Hall,

related to property and buffer

Ayush participated in the Festi-

Kolkata’s proposal for up-gra-

zones for the site, etc. WHS sta-

vals of India.

dation and modernization with

tus provides wider recognition

Dance on Ramayana was per-

A Film Festival: A film festi-

a total outlay of `59.96 crores

and a higher profile, broad legal

formed by the Kalakshetra

val comprising some of selected

has also been approved by the

status, economic, technical as-

Foundation over three days.

films of Bollywood was pre-

Ministry.

sistance and networking oppor-

The Kalakshetra Foundation

sented in the Festival of India.

performed Jatayu Moksham,

Selected Films included Jod-

World Heritage Status for

oration in protection. It im-

Choodamani Pradanam and

haAkbar, Dil Chahta Hai, Hum

Delhi

proves

Mahapatttabhishekam to cele-

Dil De Chuke Sanam, etc. The

The Minister of Culture Chan-

preservation and conservation

brate the Ramayana in Laos

film festival would be presented

dresh Kumari Katoch has said

levels of the universal value of

PDR.

by the Ministry of I&B.

that the nomination of Delhi’s

the site.

A Buddhist Exhibition:

Festival of India in Vietnam

Dhamma Darshan was pre-

and Myanmar will be held next

sented with the objective of ex-

month. In Vietnam the festival

ploring and illustrating the life

will be held from March 6 to15

and teachings of Buddha as well

and in Myanmar from March 17

as the sacred sites of events de-

to 21, 2014.

tunities and International Colla the

management,

by TNH DESK

Registration of Tourists and

tial facilities at tourist

registration of the move-

The

regulation

places. The Ministry also

ment of tourist for control-

has a mandate to promote

the dissemination of Buddhism

Renovation of national monu-

ling the crowd at tourist

tourism in a sustainable

which is based on Dhamma.

ments and museums in MP

places and providing them

and responsible manner.

The Buddhist exhibition was

The Minister of Culture Chan-

essential facilities is pri-

The National Tourism Pol-

presented by the Nava Nalanda

dresh Kumari Katoch has said

marily the responsibility

icy states that neither

Mahavihara, an autonomous or-

that the conservation work of

of the State Governments

over exploitation of natu-

ganization under Ministry of

protected monuments in the

and Union Territory Ad-

ral resources should be

Culture.

country

including

ministrations.

However,

permitted nor carrying ca-

Pradesh

picting the legend along with

Madhya

continuous

the Ministry of Tourism

pacity of the tourist sites

Buddhist Mahotsava, organized

process and essential repair

provides Central financial

ignored. This information

as part of the Festival of India,

work of them is attended regu-

assistance to the State

was given to Lok Sabha

witnessed the construction of

larly as per archaeological

Governments and Union

by the Minister of State

sand mandala, butter sculpture,

norms and principles, within

Territory Administrations

for Tourism

sacred dance and Lama Chant

the available resources. Simi-

for development of essen-

jeevi

by the monks from the Hi-

larly repair, renovation, mainte-

A Buddhist Mahotsava: The

K. Chiran-

MA R CH 2014| TNH (TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY)

Destination

Relish the charm of wildlife in the ‘Heart of India’ Madhya Pradesh, an Indian state located in central part of the country and known as ‘Heart of India’ is treasure trove of natural beauties and abode to wide-ranging flora and fauna. Bandhavgarh National Park

By Road: State/Private transport buses ply between

Bandhavgarh is a small and compact national park

Katni & Umaria and from Satna & Rewa to Tala (Band-

teeming with wildlife. The park is the original home of

havgarh). Best Season: Mid October to June.

the white tigers. This park boasts of the highest density of the tiger population in India. These have been found

Kanha National Park: call of the wild

in the old state of Rewa for many years. The last known

Kanha’s sal & bamboo forests, rolling grasslands and

was captured by Maharaja Martand Singh in 1951.This

meandering streams stretch over 940 sq km in dramatic

white tiger, Mohun, is now stuffed and on display in the

natural splendor. Kanha National Park forms the core

palace of the Maharajas of Rewa. Bandhavgarh is

of the Kanha Tiger Reserve created in 1974 under proj-

densely populated with other species: sambar and

ect Tiger. The park is the only habitat of the rare hard

barking deer are a common sight, and nilgai are to be

ground Barasingha. Kanha National Park came into

seen in the more open areas of the park.

being by a spe.

Covering 448 sq km, Bandhavgarh is situated in Umaria district. At the center of the park is Bandhav-

The best areas are the meadows around Kanha,

garh hill - surrounding it are a large number of smaller

where blackbuck, chital & barasingha can be seen

hills separated by gently sloping valleys. These valleys

throughout the day.

end in small, swampy meadows, locally known as ‘bo-

Bamni Dadar: Known as Sunset Point, this is one

hera’. The lowest point in the park is at Tala (440 me-

of the most beautiful areas of the park, from where a

tres above MSL).

spectacular sunset can be watched.The dense luxuri-

What to See: Bandhavgarh Fort, Flora & Fauna

ance of Kanha’s forests can best be seen from here. An-

Wildlife: There are more than 22 species of mam-

imals that can be sighted around this point are typical

mals & 250 species of birds.

of the mixed forest zone.

Wildlife viewing: There are two main ways of get-

Mammalian species: Kanha has some 22 species of

ting about in the park- in a motor vehicle or on elephant

mammals. Less commonly seen species are tiger, Indian

back. Jeep safaris are best undertaken from dawn until

hare, dhole or Indian wild dog, barking deer and Indian

about 10 am and from about 4 pm until dusk, as the an-

bison or gaur. Best Season: Mid-October to June

imals are most active during these periods. How to reach: By Air: The nearest airport is at Jabalpur (190 km). From Khajuraho (237 km), Bandavgarh is a five-hour drive via Panna, Satna & Maihar across stretches of the Vindhyachal. By Rail: The nearest railway stations near Band-

MAR CH 201 4| TNH (TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY)

What to see:

How to reach: Khatia (3km from Kisli) & Mukki are the two main entry points to the Kanha National Park. By Air- Nearest airports are at Jabalpur (160 km) and Raipur (240 km) and Nagpur (335 km). By Rail: Convenient railheads are at Jabalpur & Bilaspur.

havgarh are Jabalpur (190 km) , Katni(102km) & Satna

By Road: There is a daily bus service available for

(120 km) on the Central Railway & Umaria(35km) on

Kisli & Mukki from Jabalpur & back. Taxis are available

the South Eastern Railway.

for hire from Jabalpur,Bilaspur and Raipur. It is advis-

Destination

able to reach Kisli before sunset as vehicles are not

his most favourite home in the rock escarpments

permitted within the park after dark.

and undisturbed vales. The wooded areas are dot-

ted with sambar- the largest of Indian deers, chital Panna National Park: a tryst with nature

and chowsingha. One can easily see nilgai and

Panna National Park is located in Panna District. It

chinkara in most open areas in the grasslands, es-

was created in 1981. It was declared as a Project

pecially on the periphery. Varieties of snakes, includ-

Tiger Reserve in 1994. The National Park consists

ing the python and other reptiles are also found

of areas from the former Gangau Wildlife Sanctuary

here. The avifauna comprises more than 200 species

created in 1975. The sanctuary comprised of terri-

including a host of migratory birds. One can see

torial forests of the present North and South Panna

White Necked Stork, Bar Headed Goose, Honey

Forest Division to which a portion of the adjoining

Buzzard, King Vulture, Blossom Headed Parakeet,

Chhatarpur forest division was added later. The re-

Paradise Flycatcher, Slaty Headed Scimitar Babbler

served forests of the Park in Panna district and

to name a few.

some protected forests bordering Chhatarpur were the hunting preserves of the erstwhile rulers of

Other attractions

Panna, Chhatarpur and Bijawar princely states in

Fort of Ajaygarh- Built in 1765 AD by the nephew of

the past. The location of the National Park is crucial

the Maharaja of Jaitpur, the fort is situated at a

as it is situated at a point where the continuity of

height of 800ft.

the forest belt, which starts from Cape Comorin in

Mahamati Prannathji Mandir: It is one of the

the south, is broken and from there beyond, the

most revered pilgrim places for the Pranami sect fol-

great Gangetic plains begin. This area is also the

lowers the world over.

northern most tips of the natural teak forests and

Pandav falls: Located on Panna road, these falls

the eastern most tips of the natural Kardhai

are about 34 km away from Khajuraho and 7 km

(Anogeissus pendula) forests. The Ken River, which

from Madla.

flows through the reserve from south to north, is home for Gharial and Mugger. Ken offers some of

National Museum: It was established in 1988. It has a remarkable collection of icons and coins.

the most spectacular scenery to the visitor while it

How to reach:

meanders for some 55 km through the reserve.

By Air: Nearest airport is Khajuraho.

Wildlife Tiger(Panthera tigris tigris), the king of the jun-

By Rail- Nearest railhead is Khajuraho (46 km) and Satna(74 km).

gle, roams freely in this secure habitat along with

By Road- Panna is well-connected with bus net-

his fellow creatures like leopard, wild dog, wolf,

work, Khajuraho to Madla(25 km), Satna to Madla

hyena and caracal and smaller cats. Sloth bear has

(90 km) and Panna to Madla(19 km).

by TNH DESK

MA R CH 2014| TNH (TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY)

Aviation News

India’s Aviation Safety Record above Global Average

upward trend from `10,443.82

International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) Assessment of India on Universal Safety Oversight Audit Programme (USOAP) is much above the global average.

April 2012 - March 2013 when

Steps taken to improve Air

initiated to expand the existing

operations were affected due

India’s performance

Integrated passenger Terminal

to strike by pilots. However,

Venugopal informed the Lok

complete schedule was re-

Sabha that in order to im-

tional 17920 sq. m. area to en-

nder USOAP, ICAO has

stored effective from October,

prove operational and finan-

hance the passenger handling

crores in 2010-11 to `11423.69

possess sufficient training

minal building was commis-

crores in 2011-12 and further

and experience as required to

sioned on 1st June 2009 having

to `12595.98 crores in 2012-

become Commander (type-

a total floor area of 11,777 sq.

13. This has happened despite

rated pilot) on that type.

m. to handle 470 peak hour

a reduction in capacity in

passengers. Action has been

building by constructing addi-

identified eight critical

2012. The Cargo Revenue de-

cial performance of Air India,

capacity from 470 peak hour

clined to Rs.754.97 crores in

Government has taken vari-

passengers to 1075 peak hour

ganisation, licensing, opera-

2011-12 from `875.79 crores

ous steps which include: com-

passengers and extension of

tion, airworthiness, accident

in 2010-11. However, it picked

plete rationalization of the

apron to provide two addi-

investigation, air navigation

up to Rs.882 crore in 2012-13.

erstwhile Air India and Indian

tional aircraft bays.

As per

Airlines routes and elimina-

Madurai Airport: New Inte-

ICAO 2013 Safety Report

Government keen to pro-

tion of route network involv-

grated Passenger Terminal

based on USOAP audit results

mote Civil Aviation

ing

building was commissioned in

as on 31 December, 2012,

K. C. Venugopal, Minister of

rationalization of certain loss-

October 2010 capable to han-

India

State for Civil Aviation in-

making routes; induction of

dle 700 peak hour passengers.

States having effective imple-

formed the Lok Sabha that

brand new aircraft on several

The available airport infra-

mentation above the global

the Government takes neces-

domestic and international

structure is presently ade-

average, which is 61%. India’s

sary action to promote civil

routes to increase passengers

quate to meet the existing level of air traffic.

figures

Effective

among

the

Implementation

parallel

operations;

aviation sector which is a lib-

appeal; phasing out of old

stands at 79.1%.

eralised sector open to mar-

fleet and consequential re-

Coimbatore International

The only area in which India

ket forces of demand and

duction of maintenance and

Airport: Extended and modi-

lacks marginally in effective

supply. Accordingly, employ-

engineering costs; return of

fied integrated passenger ter-

implementation of critical el-

ment opportunity to pilots in

leased aircraft at the end of

minal

building

was

ement is `organisation’. For

private sector as well as gov-

their tenure or prematurely;

commissioned

this, India has already cre-

ernment sector depends on

freezing of employment in

2011. There is no further

ated 75 posts of Chief Flight

the growth and condition of

non-operational areas; rede-

scope for expansion of the

Operations Inspector (CFOI),

the economy.

ployment of staff to cut infruc-

building to enhance the pas-

tuous

and

senger handling capacity. Air-

Deputy CFOIs, Senior CFOIs

K. C. Venugopal Minister of State for Civil Aviation

ing Integrated Passenger Ter-

elements viz. legislation, or-

and aerodromes.

Ajit Singh Union Minister of Civil Aviation

lines, these co-pilots do not

Indian pilots, who are in-

expenditure

October

and FOIs. After the recruit-

ducted by airlines and are el-

grounding of ageing fleet in-

ports Authority of India (AAI)

ment, it is expected that effec-

igible to become PIC as per

cluding B747-400 which would

has plans to construct a new

tive implementation in this

the policy of airlines, are

be used only for certain lines

passenger terminal building

element also would rise much

being trained by them to

of operations and for operat-

complex on the other side of

above the global average. In

phase out Expat Pilots. Vari-

ing VVIP flights.

runway for which request has

fact, in legislation even USA

ous airlines are operating

(80.95) is below India (85.71).

with Expat Pilots due to

Government firm on airports

shortage of type rated com-

development

Passenger revenue goes up

been made to Government of Tamil Nadu to acquire and hand over additional 594

Ajit Singh, Union Minister of

manders (type-rated pilots or

Ajit Singh informed the Rajya

acres of land to AAI. However,

Civil Aviation informed the

pilot in command) in the

Sabha about the status and fu-

to enhance operational effi-

Lok Sabha that the number of

country. This has occurred

ture plans for development of

ciency, additional two aero-

revenue

have

due to growth in aviation in-

infrastructure and flights han-

bridges are being considered

gone up from 12.78 million in

dustry and induction of new

dling capacity of domestic and

in the existing Terminal Build-

2010-11 to 13.4 million in

aircrafts in the fleet of the air-

international airport terminals

ing along with the expansion

2011-12 and to 14.05 million in

lines. Though sufficient num-

at Tiruchirapalli, Madurai and

of apron to have two addi-

2012-13. Similarly, the pas-

bers of co-pilots are available

Coimbatore. Tiruchirapalli In-

tional aircraft parking bays.

senger revenue has shown an

and employed with the air-

ternational Airport: The exist-

MAR CH 201 4| TNH (TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY)

passengers

by TNH DESK

Aviation News

Finnair adds 5th daily flights to London Heathrow Finnair is increasing the number of flights it operates to London Heathrow from four to five times daily.

ffective March 30, 2014,

flight

AY995

The new frequency en-

proving connectivity to Lon-

customers who have once

ables even greater connectiv-

don while adding more flight

again given their support to our

ity not just with London and

options for those travelling

traditional Change for Good

other destinations in the UK

across the Atlantic as well.

collection,” says Arja Suomi-

and Ireland, but with North

The new frequency also en-

nen, SVP Corporate Communi-

America as well. Finnair has

hances the ability of firms to

cations

seen growing demand for

conduct business in London

Responsibility. “I also want to

North American services via

or Helsinki and make return

thank our employees and part-

London since entering the

journeys in a single day.”

ners who have participated in

departs

joint business on transatlantic

Helsinki at 16:30 for arrival in

traffic with fellow oneworld

and

Corporate

the collection. The campaign

London three hours later at

partners American Airlines,

17:30 local time, while AY996

Iberia and British Airways

Finnair, UNICEF collect 55K euros for ‘Schools for Asia’

departs London at 18:35 and

last summer. From Helsinki,

The 18th Change for Good

arrives in Helsinki at 00:35

London is a convenient trans-

collection

local time. The new frequency

fer point for onward connec-

UNICEF

will be flown primarily with

tions on a single ticket to more

flights over the Christmas and

schooling

Finnair’s new Airbus A321

than a dozen cities in North

New Year period once again

Bhutan, China, East Timor,

aircraft, which are equipped

America.

achieved a heartening result.

India, Laos, Mongolia, Nepal,

by on

Finnair

targeted the UNICEF Schools for Asia program. We believe that education is the foundation of a better future."

for

UNICEF's Schools for Asia

international

campaign supports children's in

Bangladesh,

with fuel-efficient Sharklet

“London is one of the

Finnair’s customers donated

Papua New Guinea, the Philip-

wingtip devices and operate

great global cities and always

55,490.93 euros in the special

pines and Vietnam. The cam-

within Heathrow’s strictest

in demand, and we are very

envelopes placed in aircraft

paign aims to provide children

noise parameters.

pleased to be able to add more

seat pockets and collection

with qualified teachers, safe

capacity

thriving

boxes at Helsinki Airport. Ad-

and clean school facilities, and

In addition to its own five

the

daily frequencies, Finnair of-

Helsinki-London route,” says

ditionally, Finnair Plus cus-

well-designed curricula that in-

fers two daily codeshare

Gregory Kaldahl, Finnair’s

tomers donated more than 2

clude life-skills education in

roundtrips operated by fellow

SVP Resource Management.

million Finnair Plus points to

health, nutrition, hygiene, san-

oneworld partner British Air-

“This fills out our current

UNICEF.

itation and HIV prevention.

ways.

scheduling very nicely, im-

Malaysia Airlines unveils new office in the heart of Delhi The new office has stunning contemporary look in line with refreshed brand identity. This is the first office of Malaysia Airlines outside Malaysia to get new look and feel. alaysia Airlines, the na-

“Warm thanks to all our sengers, all under one roof. The new office has been

by TNH DESK

handling room to manage and handle special cases.

designed to effectively meet the

Speaking at the occasion,

requirements of customers,

Azahar Hamid, Regional Sen-

and is another step towards

ior Vice-President, South Asia

strengthening Malaysia Air-

& Middle East, Malaysia Air-

line’s proposition of being a 5-

lines said, “Malaysia Airlines is

star airline. A larger and more

adapting to a brand new corpo-

Middle East, Malaysia Airlines.

award-winning Golden Lounge

comfortable waiting area for

rate identity globally. Keeping

The opening of the new of-

at Satellite Terminal, KL Inter-

First Class, Business Class and

an eye on the changing market

Malaysia, announced the open-

fice is in line with the airlines’

national Airport, and is also un-

Economy Class makes it more

dynamics, the new office has

tional

carrier

ing of its new office space in

global move towards a new cor-

derway at Malaysia Airlines

conducive to meeting and serv-

been specially designed for

New Delhi recently. Situated at

porate identity that imbues

offices globally.

ing guests with service excel-

user convenience, presented in

Barakhamba Road in Con-

both luxury and the essence of

lence in a superior and modern

a fresh, contemporary and ele-

Located in the heart of New

naught Place, the office was for-

the ‘Malaysian Hospitality’ that

Delhi, the new office is the first

environment. The reception

gant ambience. I am confident

mally inaugurated by the High

the airline promotes - elegance,

of its kind outside Malaysia to

area has been carefully devel-

that this new design will further

Commissioner of Malaysia,

beauty and more importantly,

get this look. Besides accom-

oped to provide detailed infor-

strengthen Malaysia Airlines’

Datuk Naimun Ashakli Mo-

truly Malaysian.

modating corporate, sales and

mation on Malaysia Airlines

commitment

The new contemporary

other departments, the office

products and services and de-

world-class service experience

Azahar Hamid, Regional Senior

and stylish look has already

will cater to all ticketing, reser-

signed for better queue man-

to its customers.”

Vice-President, South Asia &

been

vation and allied needs of pas-

agement. It also has a special

hammad in the presence of

implemented

the

providing

by TNH DESK

MA R CH 2014| TNH (TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY)

Hospitality News

CRowNe PlAzA GReATeR NoiDA New ADDReSS of lUxURy Crowne Plaza Greater Noida has become the new address of luxury in Noida and Greater Noida. The hotel recently opened its gates to guests. The new landmark address of luxury in Noida

Expo Centre is located close to our hotel,”

The courteous staff here treats the guests

and Greater Noida opened its gates to its

said Greesh Bindra, GM, Crowne Plaza

with traditional Indian hospitality whether it

guests officially on December 20, 2013. A day

Greater Noida. “We also want to promote our

is concerned with scrumptious food items or organizing a perfect event.

of golf, relaxation and dining extravaganza,

hotel as wedding destination. We have already

the hotel hosted 100 elite guests redefining

organized some big residential weddings at

hospitality through a thorough experience of

our hotel. Moreover, we also see our hotel

be focusing on, Bindra said, “For us key mar-

all facilities of the hotel.

emerging as a weekend destination for people

ket segments would be convention and MICE

staying in Delhi, Gurgaon and other nearby lo-

in addition to corporates. Our guests would

The newly opened Crowne Plaza Greater Noida is located in close proximity of the Noida-Agra Yamuna Expressway, Buddh International Race Circuit and India Expo Centre.

cation,” added Bindra. Located on a sprawling ambiance, the luxu-

Speaking about key segments the hotel will

be combination of leisure and business; however, being a business hotel, share of business

rious five-star property promises its guests an

travellers would be higher than leisure. We

ideal staying atmosphere within its premises.

are also looking at FITs. Agra would be key to

a preferred MICE destination, because we

The hotel is blessed with contemporary ac-

our business as we are located close to Ya-

have a big inventory of rooms and large meet-

commodation that will provide the guests a

muna Expressway. Agra is just two hours

ing and banqueting space. Besides, India

comfortable as well as memorable sojourn.

away from here. We also expect a lot of busi-

“We are looking at positioning our hotel as

MAR CH 201 4| TNH (TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY)

Hospitality News

Greesh Bindra (Extreme left), Gurinder Jit Singh (3rd from left), ExComm team of Crowne Plaza Greater Noida

Surpreet Suri, Rupinder Singh, S K Sharma, Gurinder Jit Singh, Greesh Bindra

Rajji Rai, Sanjay Datta, Rajan Sehgal, M P Khanna

Surpreet Suri, Rupinder Singh, Gurinder Jit Singh, Greesh Bindra

ness from F& B segment.” Spread over 8

freshly tossed pastas, soup noodle stations,

acres, the hotel has everything to offer that

luscious dimsums, Pecking Duck are just to

tal projector, cable modem and DVD player. The 48000 sq ft of meeting space, including

today’s business and leisure traveler would

name a few. An Indian specialty restaurant,

lawns, 11 break-out rooms and a dedicated

desire. The 400 key-hotel boasts of 272 well-

Spice Art serves delicacies from the North

conventions team under the supervision of a

appointed base category rooms, 62 Club

Western Frontier. Mosaic Pastry Lounge is a

Crowne Meetings Director establishes the

rooms, 49 apartments, 16 suites and 01 Presi-

34 cover delicatessen serving an assortment of

hotel as the obvious destination for all corpo-

dential Suite. The well planned and appointed

bakery items produced fresh in the premises

rate and social gatherings ranging for meet-

rooms with flat LCD TVs, Bose music system,

and backed with an impressive selection of ex-

ings, day outs and events.

media hub etc give the base room of 36 sq m, a

otic teas and coffee blends. A hotel is not com-

sense of space and luxury to the guests. Note-

plete without a watering hole and Crowne

ern facilities which have been embraced by

Adding to its features, there are some mod-

worthy are the apartments with a living room

Plaza Greater Noida takes pride in having two.

the hotel. These are facsimile, copying,

and a well laid out kitchenette with a dish-

While Connexions will be serving exotic

concierge desk, wireless date connection, sec-

washer, convection heater, microwave, refrig-

brands with great music and finger foods, the

retarial service, printer, limousine service,

erator, washing machine and clothes dryer.

soon to open Belgian Beer Café will be the

spa, gymnasium, fitness center, high speed in-

first of its kind in India serving Belgian beers

ternet access, daily housekeeping, shoe shine,

in contemporary settings.

safety deposit box and many more.

Apart from the accommodation, this palatial property also entertains its guests by providing them mouth-watering cuisines at its

The lavishing ambiance of the hotel is re-

Crowne Plaza Greater Noida ensures that

restaurants. The hotel brings in their signa-

plete with state-of-the-art conference rooms,

the hotel is not all work and no play. The Liv-

ture brands of food outlets ensuring a gastro-

which are suitable for holding a business

ing Room ensures an ambient set up for a

nomic extravaganza to the residents of the

meeting, product launch, weddings, wedding

good read or a game of chess or pool. The

hotel and Greater Noida. The 220 cover All

reception and other kinds of private party. The

Sohum spa transports you to a world of relax-

Day Diner – Mosaic with an onsite kitchen en-

main function halls here are Amoha, Arya,

ation with its spa garden, 5 sunlit massage

sures that the freshest food reaches the guests

Karma, Siddhi, Tapas, Tejas and Business

rooms including a couple massage room. The

with the Chefs more than willing to interact

Center meeting rooms. These halls are com-

health conscious can squeeze out time from

and customize. Chao Bella brings together the

prised of latest facilities like whiteboard,

the busy schedule for a workout in the round

world’s two most popular cuisines under one

stage lights, overhead projectors, modern

the clock health club or soak themselves in the

roof – Italian & Chinese. Hand Rolled pizzas,

lines, microphone, lectern, LCD projector, digi-

open air heated pool with hydro beds.

MA R CH 2014| TNH (TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY)

Hospitality News

Sarovar opens Park Plaza Chandigarh, Zirakpur Park Plaza Chandigarh, Zirakpur is Sarovar Hotels’ 5th property in Punjab.

arovar

Hotels,

the

fastest growing hotel

management

company

India, launched Park Plaza in Zirakpur. The 104-key full service, upscale hotel offers Punjab’s largest banquet and conferencing space to accommodate up to 3000 guests. This is also Sarovar’s fifth property in the state. Other Sarovar Hotels in the state include two hotels in Chandigarh

Park

Plaza

and

Hometel, and two properties in Ludhiana - Park Plaza and

oping satellite township of

City Heart Sarovar Portico. The Park Plaza hotel is lo-

such as in-room entertain-

tional cocktails, as well as a

Chandigarh. With a number of

ment through satellite chan-

choice of light finger snacks.

malls, towering residential

nels, a well-stocked mini-bar,

The

Park

Plaza

also

cated on the Ambala - Chandi-

buildings, farmhouses and

electronic

tea/coffee

boasts of the largest banquet-

garh National Highway – 21,

schools opening here, the in-

maker, Wi-Fi connectivity and

ing space in the tri-city i.e.

which also connects Zirakpur

frastructure is developing at a

24x7 room service. Multiple

Chandigarh,

with Delhi, Haryana, Punjab

rapid pace providing an op-

on-site dining options include

Panchkula. The hotel offers

and Himachal Pradesh. The

portunity to serve more and

Essence - all day dining

80,000 sq. ft. of banqueting

strategic location of the hotel

more discerning travelers. In

restaurant serving cuisines

space, a 15500 sq. ft. pillar-less

makes it easily accessible

addition, Zirakpur is also

from across the world; Zaranj

hall that can accommodate

from the Chandigarh Airport

known as the wedding capital

- the Indian specialty restau-

more than 1800 guests and

and Railway Station which

of Punjab, and Park Plaza will

rant which offers a selection

over 60,000 sq. ft. well-mani-

are 6 kms and 9 km respec-

offer the largest banqueting

of authentic cuisine from tra-

cured lawns that can hold a

tively from the hotel.

facility in the tricity.”

safe,

Mohali

and

ditional and modern day Pun-

gathering of upto 3000 guests.

At the launch occasion,

The 104 elegantly ap-

jab; and Free Spirit - the

Other hotel services include a

Anil Madhok, Managing Di-

pointed rooms and suites, in-

lounge bar serving a host of

currency exchange, concierge,

rector, Sarovar Hotels said,

cluding a Grand Presidential

premium spirits, contempo-

fitness center, swimming pool,

“Zirakpur is a rapidly devel-

Suite, have high-end facilities

rary interpretations of tradi-

spa & salon.

MAR CH 201 4| TNH (TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY)

by TNH DESK

Hospitality News

DAIWIK HOTELS: India’s First Full Service Pilgrim Hotel Chain Daiwik Hotels will soon launch its next property at Shirdi. Its upcoming projects include hotels in Dwarka, Tirupati and Gangtok amongst other religious destinations.

ndia has always been a

The domestic tourist market

heritage of a land. Beyond the

land of spiritualism and

is growing fast and today the

religious rituals they offer

pilgrims have crisscrossed

Indian traveller is looking for

leisure activities like ancient

the subcontinent for thousands

quality hospitality at an afford-

monuments and picturesque

of years. It is the birthplace of

able cost. However there are

locations, exciting shopping,

four world religions – Hin-

very few facilities available to

cuisine, dance and music fes-

duism, Buddhism, Jainism and

meet the needs of the discern-

tivals.

Sikhism. Also we have Mus-

ing traveller at most of our pil-

In India today, pilgrims still

lims, Christians, Jews, Zoroas-

grim towns. Most pilgrim

constitute the largest group of

trians and members of the

destinations still do not have

people who travel within the

Baha’i faith living in India. The

hotels that are of international

country. For example Hindus

Indian subcontinent is dotted

standards.

travel along pilgrim routes

with temples, mosques, shrines

visiting a number of destina-

and churches and we have his-

Unique Hospitality Plan

tions like the four towns on

torical towns like Varanasi,

This is where Daiwik Hotels

the

Kanchipuram, Bodh Gaya and

comes in bringing you India’s

There are festivals like the urs

Amritsar that have seen pil-

first chain of exclusive pilgrim

at the shrines of Sufi saints

grim traffic for centuries.

hotels. Our hotels are designed

that see devotees in millions

Chaar

Dhaam

yatra.

Just the numbers show the

keeping in mind the spiritual

and Christian churches that

need for a focus on the domes-

and emotional needs of those

welcome pilgrims during spe-

tic tourism market and even

on a religious journey. Offering

cial feast days. What is surpris-

more the pilgrim segment.

quality hospitality and afford-

ing is that in all these years no

India sees 850 million domestic

able luxury matched with the

hotel chain has focussed on

travellers and out of it 60%,

knowledge of the special re-

providing quality hospitality for

that is nearly 500 million, travel

quirements of pilgrims.

the Indian pilgrim.

for religious purposes. And the

What makes the Indian

numbers speak for themselves.

tourist unique is that for them

Thinking of the pilgrim first

Just one pilgrim destination,

a pilgrimage and leisure are

At Daiwik Hotels we have in-

the temple town of Tirumala

often combined as a family va-

vested a lot of time and effort to

Tirupati sees 26 million pil-

cation, so Indian pilgrim

understand the needs of pil-

grims

and

towns offer the visitor a com-

grims. We not only aim to pro-

Rameswaram welcomes 10

plete vacation experience.

vide them with comfort, safety

million. Then there are trav-

Places like Varanasi or Bod-

and professional service but

every

year

ellers from abroad who visit

hgaya are not just ancient

also meet their spiritual and

India on a spiritual quest like

centres of religion but also of

emotional requirements with

Buddhists visiting Bodhgaya

culture, art and architecture

both knowledge and practical

and other sacred Buddhist

that draw the traveller seek-

information about the pilgrim-

sites in ever growing numbers.

ing to discover the history and

age.

MA R CH 2014| TNH (TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY)

Hospitality News

Hilton Worldwide signs agreement with Archer Hospitality

and Kinari Bazaar.

the local community. The 104-

Hilton Garden Inn Gurgaon

“The opening of Double-

room hotel will also feature

Baani Square and DoubleTree

Tree by Hilton Agra marks our

four dining outlets, an outdoor

by Hilton Gurgaon-New Delhi

entry into a key leisure market

swimming pool with magnifi-

NCR; Mumbai: Hilton Mumbai

for both DoubleTree by Hilton

cent views of the Taj Mahal, 24-

International Airport; Banga-

and Hilton Worldwide,” said

hour fitness centre, a spa and

lore: DoubleTree Suites by

John Greenleaf, global head,

salon. The conference and

Hilton Bangalore; Chennai:

Unser the agreement first DoubleTree by Hilton Hote will open in Agra.

DoubleTree by Hilton. “We are

event space at the hotel will in-

Hilton Chennai; Trivandrum:

delighted with this opportunity

clude a 4,700-square foot ball-

Hilton Garden Inn Trivan-

to grow our brand presence in

room, four meeting rooms and

drum; Vadodara: Hampton by

he upscale and full-ser-

the market and deliver a pre-

a 24-hour business centre.

Hilton

Vadodara-Alkapuri;

vice hotel will be located

mier full-service, upscale hotel

“India is a key strategic

Pune: DoubleTree by Hilton

near taj mahal, offering stun-

experience to guests visiting

growth market for Hilton

Pune-Chinchwad; Goa: Dou-

ning views of the world-famous

one of the most popular tourist

Worldwide. We are delighted

bleTree by Hilton Goa-Ar-

mausoleum. Hilton Worldwide

destinations in India.”

with the opportunity to partner

pora-Baga and Shillim: Hilton

with Archer Hospitality Pri-

Shillim Estate Retreat & Spa.

and DoubleTree by Hilton

Guests at DoubleTree by

today announced the signing

Hilton Agra will be greeted

vate Limited for our foray into

"We are pleased to enter

of a management agreement

with the characteristic offer-

Agra, the leading tourist desti-

into an agreement with Hilton

with Archer Hospitality Pri-

ings found at the brand's more

nation

Worldwide, a leading global

vate Limited for DoubleTree by

than 375 hotels worldwide, in-

renowned for its many magnif-

hospitality company,” said

Hilton Agra, scheduled to open

cluding the warm welcome of

icent Mughal-era buildings,

Vikram Puri, Director, Archer

the

country

this August. Located just two

the iconic chocolate chip

most notably the Taj Mahal,

Hospitality Private Limited.

kilometres from the Taj Mahal,

cookie presented to every

Agra Fort and Fatehpur Sikri,”

“With its strategic location

DoubleTree by Hilton Agra will

guest at check-in, an array of

said Martin Rinck, president,

and full range of facilities and

be among very few hotels offer-

upscale amenities and guest

Asia Pacific, Hilton World-

services, we are confident

ing views of the legendary

services and the globally-rec-

wide.

that DoubleTree by Hilton

mausoleum. The hotel’s city

ognized CARE culture, which

cur-

Agra will fast become the first

centre location will also place

stands for “Create A Reward-

rently operates the following

choice of travellers looking for

it near popular tourist attrac-

ing Experience” and repre-

hotels and resorts in India -

upscale, full-service accom-

tions and shopping hubs like

sents the brand’s commitment

New Delhi: Hilton Garden Inn

modation in the city.”

the Agra Fort, Akbar’s Tomb

to guests, team members and

New Delhi/Saket; Gurgaon:

MAR CH 201 4| TNH (TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY)

Hilton

Worldwide

by TNH DESK

Hospitality News

of budget travellers, Garg said, “Hilton Garden Inn endeavors to combine superior value, and Hilton’s warmth and hospitality in a product that meets the needs of the mid-market and value conscious travellers. As a growing market, Trivandrum offers opportunities across all segments. We believe the city has the capacity to absorb a larger

Manish Garg GM, Hilton Garden Inn Trivandrum

Hilton Garden Inn is an award-winning, upscale, yet affordable hotel brand that strives to ensure today’s travellers has everything they need to be most productive on the road. Prem Kumar

laborating

upon

the

strategic positioning of

the introduction of this brand in the mid-90s.” When the hotel opened end

“

On the question of Trivandrum growing popularity as a

Hilton Garden Inn endeavors to combine superior value, and Hilton’s warmth and hospitality in a product that meets the needs of the mid-market and value conscious travellers.

MICE destination, Garg said, “As an evolving market, Trivandrum

offers

opportunities

across all segments including MICE. The hospitality sector of Kerala is building on customer

nature offerings that include:

“

Hilton Garden Inn Trivandrum: first internationally branded hotel in the city

priced lodging category with

inventory”.

complimentary Wi-Fi through-

cated,” said Garg. For in-

out the hotel, complimentary

stance, all members of the

more to offer and explore for

24-hour business centre, re-

Hilton HHonors programme

the MICE audience while away

mote printing, comfortable

across the world are informed

from home.

of last year, Hilton Garden Inn Trivandrum

featured

the

Hilton Garden Inn brand’s sig-

trust by offering a host of tourism-related services and business-cum-investment opportunities to clients in this segment.” The city also has lot

Serta bed, large work desk

of all new hotel openings

On the marketing strategy of

with an ergonomic Herman

through the Hilton HHonors

Hilton Garden Inn Trivandrum,

Millar chair, 24-hour Pavilion

Monthly Statement. At pres-

Garg said, “A comprehensive

Pantry

ent, there are over 39 million

offline and online strategy to generate awareness for the

convenience

mart,

Hilton Garden Inn in Trivan-

Hilton Garden Inn Satisfac-

Hilton

drum, Manish Garg, General

tion

globally.

Manager, Hilton Garden Inn

HHonors guest rewards pro-

Trivandrum said, “Hilton Gar-

gramme.

Promise

and

Hilton

HHonors

members

brand and hotel. All our com-

As regards the business in-

munications endeavours to

flow (domestic and interna-

highlight the unique offerings

tional)

of the upscale, yet affordable

den Inn is the award-winning,

Hilton Garden Inn Trivan-

upscale, yet affordable hotel

drum will play an important

Trivandrum, Garg said, “Busi-

brand that strives to ensure

role in attracting more tourist

ness in this market originates

So far as performance of other

today’s travellers has every-

arrivals to the city. “Hilton

from across the globe. Though

hotels in Trivandrum is con-

thing they need to be most

Garden Inn Trivandrum is the

domestic travellers constitute

cerned, “Demand for quality

productive on the road. Hilton

first internationally branded

the large part of the guests

hotel

Garden Inn is part of the

hotel in the city. When a prop-

staying at hotels in Trivan-

Trivandrum is high. Moreover,

Hilton Worldwide portfolio of

erty, like the Hilton Garden

drum, international business

with the commissioning of the

brands. The brand offers the

Inn, is launched, it is given vis-

and leisure travellers are also

Technopark Phase 3, the up-

amenities and services for

ibility across Hilton World-

important segments of the

coming National Games, Mono-

travellers to sleep deep, stay

wide’s

market.”

rail

fit, eat well and work smart

channels. This results in

communications

coming

into

As regards mid-to-small cap

brand and the hotel.”

accommodation

and

the

proposed

Vizhinjam Sea Port, the city

while away from home. Hilton

greater awareness about the

hotels in Trivandrum/Kerala

should witness a further in-

Worldwide redefined the mid-

city in which the hotel is lo-

catering to the requirements

crease in demand.”

MA R CH 2014| TNH (TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY)

Hospitality News

added to MLHS group in De-

Muthoot Group acquires hospitality property in Central America

cember 2013. MLHS has also

ually designed villas nestled on

farm-fresh

a 40 acre plantation overlook-

cuisines for health-conscious

Raxa Collective to manage the

ing the Central Valley of Costa

and other guests.Costa Rica

property hereon.MLHS plans

Rica. Each villa is beautifully

stands as the most visited na-

to spend 200 crores in next two

designed and dressed up in a

tion in the Central American

scrumptious

combination of barrel vaulted

region, with 2.2 million foreign

George M George, Execu-

ceilings, thatch roofs, colorful

visitors in 2011. International

tive Director, MLHS, said, “The

walls, tile floors, original art-

tourist receipts rose to US$2.4

concept of eco-friendly resorts

work by the owners, rattan

billion in 2012, and the lead

originated in Costa-Rica and

chairs and traditional textiles.

country of origin was the

this acquisition is an expres-

Adding serenity are the expan-

United States, followed by

ligned to its ethos of

sion of our belief in promoting

sive lawns, covered by pala-

Nicaragua and Canada. Eco-

conserving

environment-friendly projects

George M George Executive Director, MLHS

view. The resort also offers

extended its collaboration with

years

The Group becomes first Indian company to acquire hospitality property in Central America.

tropical paradise of 24 individ-

unique-

ness of different cul-

around the world. Moreover, it

tures, Muthoot Leisure and

is aligned to our vision of offer-

Hospitality Services (MLHS),

ing excellent service and hos-

the hospitality division of

pitality

Muthoot Group today an-

complemented by exquisite ex-

our

guests,

nounced the acquisition of

posure to the heritage of that

Costa Rica’s award winning,

region. I am confident that the

high-end property ‘Xandari

uniqueness of this property

Resort & Spa’. This is the first

will appeal to global visitors

acquisition by an Indian hospi-

and will go a long way in

tality company in Central

strengthening our business

America.

here. Having said that, India

tourism draws many tourists

Snapshot

to visit the extensive national

•Group acquires the Costa-Rica based ‘Xandari resort & spa’ •MLHS plans to invest 200 crores in next two years •Plans further expansion in central America, Africa & Sri Lanka

parks and protected areas around the country. The resort has received many

recognitions

and

awards for its exceptional hospitality. To name a few such as, Condé Nast Platinum List (awarded for 5 consecutive years on Gold List), Top 10 Central South American Resortsorganised by Travel +

Based in Alajuela, Costa

continues to be our focus mar-

pas.

Rica, Xandari Resort & Spa a

ket and we will announce our

therapeutic spa service, set in

ers

luxurious property becomes

domestic expansion plans very

the tropical garden with pri-

Travel Award for Costa Rica’s

the first overseas acquisition

soon”.

vate palm-roofed gazebos,

Leading Spa Resort.

by MLHS.The resort was

Red Fox Hotel East Delhi wins National Tourism Award 2012-13 The hotel won National Tourism Award 2012-13 for best budget/economy hotel.

red Fox hotel east delhi wins national Tourism Award 2012-13

MA RC H 20 14 | TNH (TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY)

Xandari Resort & Spa is a ed Fox Hotel, East Delhi

has been honored with

Guests

are

offered

Leisure; Trip Advisor TravelChoice

each with its own Jacuzzi and The

National

Winner,World

by TNH DESK

Tourism

find this model is working well.”

Awards recognize and honor

Nikhil Sharma, Assistant

the National Tourism Award

stellar organizations and indi-

Vice President-Operations, Red

2012-13 for the best hotel clas-

viduals who are championing,

Fox Hotels accepted the award

sified in two-star category. Red

driving and supporting tourism

at a glittering ceremony held at

Fox Hotels, an economy brand

in India.

Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi

which delights customers with

Speaking on the occasion,

today.

its unbeatable value and reli-

Patu Keswani, Chairman &

able safety standards, is a part

Managing

Lemon

mercial hub of NOIDA (Sectors

of one of India’s fastest growing

Tree Hotels said, “We are ex-

1 to 12, 16 and 25A) and in close

hotel groups- Lemon Tree Ho-

cited about being selected as

proximity to the industrial hubs

tels. It operates four hotels in

the best hotel in the two-star

of Ghaziabad and Sahibabad,

three cities – New Delhi (2 ho-

category. We have focused our

the Red Fox Hotel, East Delhi

tels), Hyderabad and Jaipur.

efforts on redefining the econ-

welcomes you with its fresh

Red Fox occupies a sweet spot

omy/budget hotels segment and

bold interiors as well as crisp

in the mid market segment with

on offering our consumers

and clean rooms and delights

its consistent and efficient serv-

great, consistent quality at a

you with its unbeatable value

ice along with its economical

very reasonable price. From the

and reliable safety standards.

pricing.

guest feedback we receive, we

Director,

Located adjoining the com-

by TNH DESK

Hospitality News

Choice Hotels India opens Clarion Hotel Coimbatore Choice Hotels India, the wholly owned subsidiary of Choice Hotels International, recently announced the grand opening of their new property under their upscale brand Clarion.

minutes) from the Airport and 15Km from the city centre & CODISSIA trade centre is just 6Km away. The Hotel offers 107 elegantly designed rooms & suites with very trendy & contemporary interiors with service and amenities that define the hospitality of Clarion Hotel

larion Hotels offer full-ser-

Coimbatore. The Hotel is a

vice facilities, with atten-

wonderful stop over on the way

tive services and an appealing

to Ooty. Hotel facilities include

ambience. Upscale amenities

Rejuvenating Massage at Or-

and flawless attention to detail

chid Bali Spa, you would also

combine to create the Clarion

grove to the music at the Zero

experience.

Degree Bar & Enjoy a sumptu-

Clarion Hotel Coimbatore is ideally situated with easy ac-

ous meal at 24x7 Bytes Restaurant.

Our aim has always been to offer our customers an experience of world class services at best value proposition. The Clarion Hotel Coimbatore hotel has been designed keeping in mind all details for convenience to delight both – business as well as domestic traveller.

“

tels India said, “Our aim has al-

at our breakfast, lunch and din-

ways

ner buffets. Or choose from our

customers an experience of

Room Amenities

a-la-carte menu throughout the

world class services at best

day.

value proposition. The Clarion

airport, Clarion Hotel Coimbat-

All room feature high speed unlimited wireless internet ac-

business travellers visiting

cess, Voicemail, in- room safe,

South India’s textile, manufacogy hub. It is also a good base

Speaking on the occasion, Vilas Pawar, CEO, Choice Ho-

ore makes it convenient for

for leisure travellers to visit na-

interactive coffee shop is located at lobby level. Savour wide

cess to city centre, CODISSIA

turing and information technol-

social gatherings.

range of international cuisines

VILAS PAWAR, CEO, CHOICE HOTELS INDIA

Trade Centre and Coimbatore

A 24 hours contemporary

been

offer

our

Hotel Coimbatore hotel has Zero Degrees

been designed keeping in mind

With its ambient–lit interiors,

all details for convenience to de-

sexy cocktails and delicious bar

light both – business as well as

snacks, Zero Degree is a perfect

domestic traveller.”

Conferences & Banquets: 3 Conference Halls and Board Room

place to relax, kick back and

Choice Hotels India is a

ture and cultural attractions

West Minster : 2844 sq. ft.

mingle with friends.

wholly owned subsidiary of

such as Perur Siva temple with

Windsor : 1518 sq. ft.

Event facilities:

Choice Hotels International, one

1,000-year-old granite sculp-

Rivera : 880 sq. ft.

tures, Puliakulam temple which

Orchid : 250 sq. ft.

houses Asia’s biggest statue of Lord

Ganesha,

Whether you are planning

of the largest and most wide-

an intimate celebration for two

spread lodging franchisors of

or a gathering of 400-450 guests,

the world with over 6000 hotels

Anamalai

Mini bar Tea & Coffee maker,

the Clarion Hotel Coimbatore is

across the globe. Today Choice

wildlife Sanctuary and Ooty Hill

LCD satellite television, DVD

the ideal setting for your upcom-

Hotels India is one of the fastest

Station at an altitude of 7,500

Player on Request, Hair dryer,

ing meetings or event. Its dedi-

and finest growing hotel chains

feet.

In-room iron and ironing board,

cated event planners are ready

with 26 properties over 19 desti-

Intercom Facility with Direct

to help you plan every detail,

nations in India. These hotels

Rooms and amenities:

Dial Telephone, Shower Area

from the catering menu to the

are in various destinations in-

Clarion Hotel Coimbatore is

with Hot/Cold Water, Non Smok-

colour scheme. Choose from a

cluding New Delhi, Mumbai,

perfectly positioned for both

ing Rooms

number

room

Chennai, Coimbtore, Ahmed-

arrangements to ideally fit your

abad, Bengaluru, Gurgaon and

meeting. Poolside deck area for

Hyderabad.

business & leisure travellers. The hotel is located 4km (10

MAR CH 201 4| TNH (TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY)

Dining: 24X7Bytes

different

by TNH DESK

Hospitality News

New speciality show at Food&HotelAsia 2014

accounting for about two thirds of the total Indian retail market. According to consultancy firm McKinsey & Co, the retail food sector in India is likely to

FHA 2014, the largest edition of the show that is held in Singapore witnesses an increase in Indian participation

grow from around US$70 billion in 2008 to US$150 billion by 2025, accounting for a large

chunk of the world food indus-

(FHA)

try which is expected to grow

and Wine&SpiritsAsia (WSA),

from US$175 billion in 2008 to

2014

edition

Food&HotelAsia

the region’s most established

US$318 billion by 2020, and up

and comprehensive food and

venue. Moving forward, the

backdrop of a booming café

to US$400 billion by 2025. The

hospitality trade show, has

event will only continue to

culture in Asia, SpecialityCof-

food processing industry is one

made its mark by becoming the

grow as new markets in the re-

fee&Tea will integrate all as-

of the largest industries in

first event to max out the Sin-

gion become more developed,

pects of the industry in a single

India – it is ranked fifth in

gapore Expo – Singapore’s

and demand increases.”

platform featuring a compre-

terms of production, consump-

hensive range of equipment,

tion, export and expected

coffee beans, tea leaves and ac-

growth. The Confederation of

largest exhibitions venue. Occupying all 10 exhibition halls

New speciality show at

and Max Atria, FHA and WSA,

Food&HotelAsia – Speciality-

cessories from across the

Indian Industry (CII) has esti-

organised by Singapore Exhi-

Coffee&Tea

globe. SpecialityCoffee&Tea is

mated that the foods process-

bition Services (SES), will be

Tea isn’t simply tea in India. It

the largest, most comprehen-

ing sector has the potential to

held from 8 – 11 April this year.

is a staple beverage and a day

sive and international show of

attract US$33 billion worth of

The event spans a total of

without it is incomplete for the

its kind in the region.

investments in 10 years and

100,000 sq m, 8% increase in

average consumer in India. Tea

Lindy Wee, Director of

size from 2012. It is the largest

is indigenous to the Eastern

Public Relations at SES says,

generate employment of 9 million persons – days.

edition in the event’s illustrious

and Northern parts of India,

“Rising affluence and changing

Additionally, over the next

37 year history. This year, in-

but the tea industry has grown

lifestyles in the region has cre-

three years India’s hospitality

dustry buyers can expect to

tremendously over the years,

ated greater demand for gour-

sector is likely to see invest-

source from a gathering of

making

met coffee and tea. The launch

ment of over US$200 billion

2,800 exhibitors from 70 coun-

grower and producer of tea in

with investors’ shifting their

tries/regions and 54 group

the world.

India

the

largest

SpecialityCoffee&Tea

throws a spotlight on the in-

focus

pavilions at FHA. Offerings

The tea production in India

dustry and highlights its devel-

economies.

span across all aspects of the

was 979,000 tonnes as of 2009.

opment, and caters to the

J Shanker, Director, CII

Asia’s

growing

food and beverage (F&B) and

India is the world leader in

region’s booming café culture.

commented, “FHA 2014 and

hotel industry. Stephen Tan,

terms of consumption, export

In addition to the exhibits at

WSA 2014 provide an ideal

Chief Executive of show organ-

and production of tea – it ac-

SpecialityCoffee&Tea, visitors

platform for Indian companies

iser SES, who has nurtured the

counts for 31% of the global tea

from India can also source

to discuss the latest food and

show over the last 30 years

production. The total turnover

from the offerings at Hospitali-

hospitality industry trends and

says, “As industry pioneers we

of this industry is approxi-

tyStyleAsia and Bakery&Pas-

issues. We have seen the event

wanted to create a platform

mately Rs.10,000 crores. Esti-

try for all their coffee and tea

growing bigger and have bene-

where local and regional food

mated

needs.”

fitted greatly from the expo-

and hospitality businesses

consumption has also in-

The other five specialised

sure the show has offered.

could benefit from what was

creased from 838 million kilo-

shows are FoodAsia, HotelA-

Today, the event is a world

domestic

tea

available in the global market

grams in 2009-2010 to 890

sia, Bakery&Pastry, Hospitali-

class show with visitors from

place as it was not easily ac-

million kilograms in 2012-2013.

tyStyleAsia,

the region and beyond.”

cessible back then. This year

The 19th edition of FHA

is a milestone for FHA and

will see the launch of Speciali-

WSA as it has maximised the

tyCoffee&Tea, bringing the

available exhibition space of Singapore’s largest exhibition

and

HospitalityTechnology.

This edition of FHA and WSA sees an 80% increase in

The Indian Food Industry

participation compared to 2012

total number of speciality

The Indian food market is esti-

from Indian companies.

shows to six. Set against the

mated at over US$18 billion,

by TNH DESK

MA R CH 2014| TNH (TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY)

Hospitality News

Sheraton Macao Hotel kicks off 2014 with ‘Meet 24’ ‘Meet 24’ is a brand new initiative designed for smarter meetings.

the day of departure at no additional cost. This means that if the group's preferred checkin time is 8:00pm, the check-out time will be 8:00pm on the day of departure and no additional

being able to offer meeting facilities around the clock Reaffirms commitment to cater for groups of all sizes, including smaller ones Flexibility: able to check-out at the same early or late

more, meeting space booked

check-in time at no additional charges, e.g. group checks-in

will be held for the same dura-

at 5:00pm, they can check-out at 5:00pm

heraton Macao Hotel,

tion, meaning planners and delegates will enjoy meeting

wood's largest hotel globally,

and relaxation time with in-

and the biggest hotel in Macau

comparable flexibility.

with 3,896 room and more than

Meet 24 highlights Sheraton Macao Hotel's flexibility in

charges will apply. What's

Cotai Central, Star-

Quick facts on Meet 24:

Convenience: the convenience of using the hotel's meeting facilities at any time during their stay Dedicated Events Team: to ensure a stress-free event and that all meeting requirements are met round the clock

A first for Asia Pacific

Booking Requirements: Targeted at smaller MICE

14,000m2 of meeting space has

meeting planners and exclu-

groups, minimum 20 and maximum 100 room nights per day

rolled out Meet 24, believed to

sive to Sheraton Macao Hotel -

and at least one full day meeting for all group participants

be the first offer of its kind pro-

- Meet 24 is available only to

viding smaller meeting groups

members of the Starwood Pre-

flexible check-in and check-out

ferred Planner program. Meet

times.

Validity: From now till December 19, 2014 ticipants. Time is precious so

ing the size of the property,

24 also focuses on the special

being able to meet at a time

smaller groups remain a prior-

meeting

more convenient for everyone

ity for the hotel.

check-in time of 3:00pm and

smaller groups with a mini-

really makes a difference to the

check-out time of 11:00am,

mum booking per day of 20

event.

Meet 24 allows meeting groups

guestrooms and a maximum of

Ruth Boston, GM, Sales &

to check-in any time and

100 guestrooms plus at least

Marketing, Sheraton Macao

and aspirations. Our new offer

check-out at the same time on

one full-day meeting for all par-

Hotel, said that notwithstand-

delivers flexibility at a time

Instead of the usual fixed

requirements

"Meet 24 reinforces Sheraton Macao Hotel's commitment to cater for groups of all sizes

when planners are looking for ways to make their meetings more productive and cost effective, especially when time is limited and budgets are tight. Our conference floors also offer multiple meeting solutions with spaces specifically designed to accommodate smaller meetings and events. With Meet 24, planners can look forward to hassle-free

meetings

cus-

tomized to the busy schedules of their meeting attendees." Sheraton Macao Hotel is located in the center of the glittering Cotai Strip Resorts Macao. With its extensive room inventory and meeting space, the property is not only capable of hosting large conferences under one roof, its versatile meeting space can also be configured to cater to smaller, more intimate meetings.

MAR CH 201 4| TNH (TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY)

by TNH DESK

Hospitality News

Jodhpur gets first Classic Heritage Hotel

classified as as a Classic Her-

Ranbanka Palace Hotel is now a Classic Heritage property.

itage hotel. This honour was

today houses a range of ac-

markable one. It offers many

proffered by the Ministry of

commodations from spacious

dining experiences with Ran-

anbanka Palace re-

guests are surrounded at all

food is fit for the kings and the

cently became the

times with a refreshing ambi-

staff provides a royal treat-

first hotel in Jodhpur to be

ence of heritage, peace and

ment to the guests that make

tranquility. The heritage hotel

the dining experience a re-

Tourism, Govt. of India as Ran-

and luxurious Club or Deluxe

banka Bagh surrounded by

banka Palace is traditional yet

rooms which face the Pool and

lush gardens, The Pachranga

innovatively modern and the

Court yard to extravagant

overlooking the central Court-

general features and ambiance

Suites in the royal ‘Heritage

yard serving Indian, oriental

of the hotel conform to the

Wing’ and luxurious ‘Jodhana

and continental cuisines with

overall concept of heritage and

Wing’. This sprawling Palace

the Baithak an exemplary Ra-

architectural distinctiveness.

was converted into a Hotel in

jasthani Lounge complete with

the year 2000,over the last

Bajoths

Sayyad MA Depuy General

and

Gaddi

Manager was overwhelmed by

thirteen years there has been

Massons.The Polo Bar which

this award and said, “We are

a constant up gradation of its

spills into the old pool side

extremely delighted to hear

facilities , presently too the

baradari exhibits the trophies

the news, and our aim has al-

Hotel is undergoing major ren-

won by the family over gener-

ways been to give the best to

ovation, restoration and up

ations

our clientele. We will continue

gradation without disturbing

For relaxation there are

to offer novel heritage experi-

its operations , which will be in

the signature spa therapies at

ences, and will strive to delight

tune with some of the world

the ‘Spa by the Baradri’. There

the travelers and make their

class heritage Properties. The

is plenty in the way of enter-

stay with us a memorable

hotel today welcomes you with

tainment for the visitor.Kaalbe-

one”.

aesthetically upgraded and re-

lia dances, one of the most

Deriving its name from the

furbished rooms, and interiors

sensuous dance forms of Ra-

Rathore war cry, Ranbanka

and a restored Court yard and

jasthan,

Palace was built for Mahara-

freshly manicured gardens.

shows and traditional music

jadhiraj Sir Ajit Singh ji. Its

The spacious new lobby with

recitals. Unique in-room shop-

delightful

puppet

central location allows easy

full garden view adds to the

ping (Available in the Jodhana

access to key leisure and busi-

charm of this great heritage

Wing) a shopping corridor to

ness addresses in the Sun City.

hotel.

entice you and many private

The hotel provides a perfect

Ranbanka Palace offers an

terraces for romantic dinners

amalgam of old world charm

array of cuisines with delec-

will make your visit here a cel-

and contemporary style.The

table Rajasthani flavors. The

ebration.

by TNH DESK

MA R CH 2014| TNH (TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY)

International News

Anupam sharma (director), minister for Tourism, major events and the Arts, george souris, nsW Premier Barry o'Farrell at the Jhappi Time launch

NSW embraces fast-growing Indian tourism market

popular

tourist

locations

food and wine, and unique re-

and around NSW, the ‘Jhappi

gional

‘Jhappi

Time’ vignettes feature actors

Manly Beach and the Blue

Time’ will showIndian trav-

and leaders of the Indian com-

Mountains. A cast of local In-

ellers that they will enjoy some

munity in NSW including Mala

dian dancers, actors and musi-

of their best travel experiences

Mehta OAM, Head of GOPIO

cians feature in the campaign.

– and holiday moments – here

Lucky Singh, Founder of TiE

in NSW.”

Dilip Rao and two finalists of

around NSW including Sydney,

Speaking on the occasion,

attractions,

In an Aussie- first campaign, Destination NSW launches ‘Jhappi Time’ – a friends and relatives – focused tourism campaign.

Destination NSW CEO, Sandra

In launching the campaign

Australia’s first Bollywood real-

Chipchase, described the cam-

earlier today, NSW Premier

ity show, SBS’s Bollywood Star.

paign as acreative and industry

Barry O’Farrellsaid the cam-

The four vignettes include

ith a predicted 50 million

first that will ensureIndian

paign aims to build on the

the stories of: Sikh parents

outbound travellers by

travellers will have NSW front

State’s reputation as the key

wanting to visit their daughter

2020, India is one of the world’s

of mind when they plan their

destination for Indian travellers

who is studying at the Univer-

fastest growing travel markets

Australian holiday.

to Australia.

sity of Sydney; a husband and

and the target of an innovative

has

“Sydney is the number one

wife missing their adult chil-

new digital marketing cam-

worked with leading Bollywood

Australian destination for In-

dren who all live in Sydney; a

paign by Destination New

film director and Australian

dian travellers, with Regional

woman who is becoming a

South Wales (NSW) that show-

filmmaker, Anupam Sharma, to

NSW growing in popularity

grandmother for the first time

casesthe best of Sydney and

create a fun, completely unique

among tourists from India,” he

and wants to visit her new

and culturally authentic cam-

said.

NSW to Indian visitors.

“Destination

NSW

grandchild in Sydney; and a

The landmark campaign,

paign that will appeal directly

“India is one of the State’s

young woman who wants to

called ‘Jhappi Time’ or ‘hug

to Indian travellers’ love of fam-

most important tourism, trade

visit her best friend who lives in

time’, is the first campaign de-

ily, fun and good times,” Ms

and business investment mar-

Sydney.

veloped and executed by any

Chipchase explained.

kets, and ‘Jhappi Time’ will en-

The vignettes will be shown

Australian tourism body, to

“More than one third of In-

hance tourism from India,

in India through digital media

specifically target the visiting

dian visitors come to New

which is currently worth an es-

as well as through cinema ad-

friends and relatives market, in

South Walesto spend time with

timated $183 million a year to

vertising, where they were

their loved ones, so we are tap-

the NSW economy.”

tested across different demo-

India. The campaign features four

ping into the enormous poten-

In the year ending Septem-

graphics, and will support in-

‘Bollywood-style’ vignettes di-

tial of the ‘Visiting Friends &

ber 2013, NSW received 77,664

market industry partners and

rected by Bollywood director

Relatives’ market segment in

visitors from India who spent

travel wholesalers to promote

and Head of Films and TV for

NSW.”

3.6 million nights in the State.

travel packages and airfare of-

the Australian India Film Fund,

“With our stunning har-

Told against the backdrop

Anupam Sharma, set in various

bour, great beaches, wonderful

of famous landmarks in Sydney

MA RC H 20 14 | TNH (TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY)

fers to Indian travel agents and visitors.

by TNH DESK

International News

Bollywood

boost for Australia ‘Shaadi Ke Side Effects’ by Balaji Motion Pictures Limited and Pritish Nandy Communications featuring Gold Coast, Australia releases on 28 February 2014 .

ourism Australia (TA) in

nates in a wedding proposal on

paign with television and print

partnership with Tourism

a hot air balloon flight. Com-

commercials and PR and social

and Events Queensland (TEQ)

posed by ace music director,

media initiatives highlighting

collaborated

Pritish

Pritam Chakraborty, a trailer of

experiences undertaken by the

with

Nandy Communications (PNC)

the soundtrack released by the

lead cast that can be replicated

and Balaji Motion Pictures

film-makers has been receiving

by Indian travellers. As a

Limited (BMPL) on an exciting

good reviews and feedback, an

unique promotional activity,

in-film integration for their lat-

indication of the high anticipa-

when Farhan Akhtar and Vidya

est venture -‘Shaadi Ke Side Ef-

tion of the film amongst the In-

Balan were invited as special

fects’

dian cinema audience.

guests of the popular celebrity

(Side

Effects

Marriage), to promote Aus-

M ARCH 20 14| TNH (TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY)

Speaking about the associ-

dance reality show ‘Nach

tralia as the perfect choice for

ation, Nishant Kashikar, Coun-

Baliye’ on Star Plus, they

romantic holidays. In the film,

try Manager – India & Gulf,

shared their experience of film-

Indian

Tourism Australia said, ‘Fea-

ing in Australia and also gave

superstar

actors,

Farhan Akhtar and Vidya

turing in Hindi films is a great

away a special Australian holi-

Balan bring alive the charm of

way of reaching out to a wide

day package to the champions,

Australia on the silver screen

audience base and we are glad

won by the popular TV couple

as they serenade to the peppy

to have collaborated with es-

Ritwick Dhanjani and Asha

love track ‘I’m Sorry Tumse

tablished brands of this indus-

Negi.

Pyar Ho Gaya’ (I have fallen in

try to showcase Australia as an

love with you) in the sunshine

ideal

getaway.

Events Queensland Interna-

city of Gold Coast.

romantic

Ross Gregory, Tourism and

Through the journey of the lead

tional Director, Eastern Mar-

A romantic high point of

actors, the audience will get to

kets said, "Tourism and Events

the film, the song features on-

see a very tempting glimpse of

Queensland is delighted to

screen characters Sid and Tr-

Gold Coast. The film’s release

have worked in partnership

isha enjoying special intimate

coincides with our integrated

with Tourism Australia and

moments against iconic Gold

brand campaign in the media

with Pritish Nandy Communi-

Coast experiences. Their so-

and we are optimistic that it

cations on this spectacular Bol-

journ included a self-drive ex-

will further enhance the appeal

lywood opportunity and for

perience in the Gold Coast

for Australian holidays this

being the preferred Australian

hinterland, frolicking along the

season.’

destination to film the back-

beach at Surfer’s Paradise,

To leverage the film associ-

ground images for the very ro-

cuddling a koala during a visit

ation, Tourism Australia (TA)

mantic song 'I'm Sorry Tumse

to Dreamworld and living it up

and

Events

Pyaar Ho Gaya' from the block-

while enjoying the night life of

Queensland (TEQ) are imple-

buster Shaadi Ke Side Effects.

the city. Their journey culmi-

menting a promotional cam-

by TNH DESK

Tourism

and

International News

L-R Jay Gray, VP-Global Partnership Development, Brand USA, Nancy Powell, US Ambassador to India, Sheema Vohra, MD, Brand USA India & Greg O’ Connor, Commercial Officer, US Embassy at Brand USA pavilion at SATTE 2014.

Brand USA hosts USA Pavilion at SATTE 2014 Delegation of U.S. suppliers and destinations attend India’s biggest travel and tourism event for the second consecutive year.

L-R Jay Gray, VP-Global Partnership Development, Brand USA with Nancy Powell, US Ambassador to India inaugurating Brand USA pavilion at SATTE 2014.

Car, Best Western Global Mar-

not highlighting my home state

keting Group, Best Western

of Iowa!” said Powell.

India, FRHI Hotels & Resorts,

India is a key market for the U.S. Emerging markets

The U.S. Embassy here in

are expected to grow their

Greater Miami Convention &

New Delhi participated in this

share of visitors substantially

Visitors Bureau, Las Vegas

event to help facilitate Indian

from 47 percent in 2012 to 57

Convention and Visitors Au-

travelers visiting the United

percent in 2030. As of 2012, in-

thority, Nevada Commission

Sates. “Travel and tourism to

ternational visitor spending in

Tourism, Caesars Entertain-

the U.S. are important ways

the U.S. from India repre-

ubsequent to the positive

ment, State of Nevada, Sea

for us to expand our cultural

sented nearly $5 billion and

response generated at

World Parks & Entertainment,

and commercial ties and in-

travel and tourism represent

SATTE 2013, Brand USA is

Team America Receptive Tour

crease trade between our

40 percent of all U.S. services

participating at SATTE 2014.

Operator, Tours Limited, Uni-

countries. But the most impor-

exports to India.

Through the USA Pavilion, US

versal Parks & Resorts, Visit

tant aspect of travel and

Sheema Vohra, Managing

exhibitors are afforded cost-ef-

Florida, and Walt Disney

tourism is not the dollar fig-

Director of Sartha Global and

fective and hassle-free oppor-

World.

ures, but the person-to-person

a Representative of Brand

relationships that are culti-

USA India, commented: “The

tunities

participate

Speaking at the inaugura-

overseas markets, introducing

tion of Brand USA Pavilion at

vated,” said Powell. “We will

USA is an amazingly versatile

new products and finding buy-

SATTE 2014, Nancy Powell, US

continue to find more ways to

destination. Our meetings with

ers at international travel and

Ambassador to India said, “It

make travel from India to the

the Indian travel trade at

tourism shows around the

is exciting to be at this event

U.S. as simple as possible. I

SATTE help us educate them

globe. SATTE, South Asia’s

celebrating

look forward to working with

on the range of products and

SATTE

2014,

leading travel & tourism event,

which has grown to become

the travel agency community

tourism offerings this beautiful

has become an extremely pop-

one of the premier tourism ex-

on this very important effort to

and diverse country has on offer for Indian visitors.”

ular platform for buyers and

hibitions in the region.” He

support U.S. travel, and I hope

sellers from the tourism indus-

noted with pleasure that US

that you find the SATTE show

try to meet and conduct busi-

had sizable Pavilion at the

informative and enjoyable.”

In addition to participating in tradeshows such as SATTE,

ness. As the Indian tourism

show. “In 2013, we welcomed

Jay Gray, Vice President of

Brand USA has completed

industry is growing at a fast

approximately 700,000 visitors

Global Partnerships at Brand

sales missions, travel agent ed-

pace, delegates at the Brand

from India. Indian travelers

USA said, : “SATTE is an ex-

ucational seminars and part-

USA booth will use this oppor-

are visiting our great states of

cellent platform for Brand USA

nership co-ops with key airline

tunity to build relationships

California, Florida, Nevada,

to position the U.S. as the

and travel trade partners in

with and market their prod-

and New York, and they are ex-

world’s premier holiday desti-

India. The demand generated

ucts to Indian buyers.

periencing the beauty of parks

nation. With our continued

and enhanced by Brand USA’s

The delegation consists of

like Yellowstone or Yosemite.

participation at SATTE and

promotional activities have

more than a dozen leading U.S.

Others are taking their fami-

our enhanced presence in the

been met with effective efforts

exhibitors from various travel

lies to destinations like Disney

Indian market, the USA is on

to reduce visa waiting times in

industry segments. The partic-

World and Sea World. Have to

pace

ipants include Alamo Rent A

fault the BrandUSA folks for

growth.”

impact

significant

key growth markets such as India.

by TNH DESK

MA R CH 2014| TNH (TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY)

International News

National airline of Maldives to start charter flights to Delhi Maldivian, the flagship carrier of Maldives is planning to start charter flights between the Maldivian capital Male and Delhi in next two to three months.

tential tourists to come, but

economy. As we celebrate 40

will also increase the ripple ef-

years of tourism, 109 exclu-

fect of the tourism dollar to

sive resorts with over 23,000

the surrounding local island

beds have been developed

communities by generating

which constitute a billion dol-

job opportunities, infrastruc-

lar industry. Presence of fa-

ture development and other

aldivian is negotiating

the tourism business together

mous

benefits.

to start charter flights

with the continued effort of

chains have positioned the

international

hotel

All development is being

between capitals of the two

our industry partners, Mal-

Maldives as must visit desti-

undertaken by giving careful

nations. This was informed by

dives

nation.

consideration to the suste-

Hussain

Hussain Lirar Deputy Tourism Minister, Maldives

is the lifeline of the Maldives

Lirar,

tourism

industry

Deputy

achieved this milestone. Over-

To match with the world

nance of the natural environ-

Tourism Minister, Maldives.

all Maldives received 1.1 mil-

class product, we are moving

ment and following strict

The Charter flights from Male

lion visitors in 2013.

full swing in developing our

regulatory measures. An en-

to Delhi will help in increase-

Lirar informed that Mal-

infrastructure, which is cru-

vironmental impact assess-

ing more Indian arrivals to

dives Tourism would conduct

cial in enhancing the tourist

ment needs to be undertaken

Maldives. The island national

many promotional activities

experience. In order to ease

and approved by the relevant

aims a substantial increase in

and some road shows in In-

the challenges faced to travel

government authority before

the Indian tourist arrivals to

dian market in this year.

between the islands, many

any development can take

Government of Maldives

airports have been developed.

place. For resort island devel-

gives free visa-on-arrival to all

Currently there are four

opment, only 30% of the land

the country. Hussain Lirar informed that the country has 60

nationalities of the world in-

International

area of a given island should

tourism projects in pipeline.

cluding Indians. The national

which two became interna-

be developed, no building

He requested Indian private

airline of the country has di-

tional in February 2013. These

should be higher than the

investors to invest in these

rect flights to two Indian

are Ibrahim Nasir Interna-

tallest palm, each resort must

proposed projects. Maldives

cities: Chennai and Trivan-

tional Airport (the main air-

house a self contained sewage

plan to develop north and

drum. Being one Island, and

port near the capital Male),

disposal system and an incin-

south regions of the country

one resort, Maldives is a

Gan

eration facility for waste.

as two new economic hubs

unique destination. Visitors

(Addu Atoll, in the South),

with focus on tourism sector

here have total privacy. The

Hanimadhoo

International

tourism development is the

as central zone of the country

country has many romantic

Airport (Haa Dhaalu Atoll in

key to the success of tourism

has got saturated.

Airports

International

Airport

Adaptation of sustainable

sites, which honeymooners

the North), and Maamigili In-

in the Maldives we continue to

can enjoy with complete pri-

ternational

enjoy today.

Maldives reaches 1-Million

vacy. Maldives has one of the

Dhaalu Atoll, Central Mal-

India is one of the impor-

tourist milestones

Airport

(Alifu

best diving spots, which is

dives. The last two opened in

tant emerging markets for the

The Island nation received

popular among dive enthusi-

Feb 2013.

Maldives, and Indian arrivals

1.1 million visitors in 2013. It

asts of the world. The country

In addition to four interna-

received

Indian

also promotes other water-

tional airports there are five

increasing.

tourists from 2013. The year

based activities, such as surf-

domestic airports are in oper-

biggest market from Asia and

2013 was an exciting year for

ing. It has ground water spa

ation, Kooddoo (Gaafu Alifu

ninth in the world. Country-

Maldives as far as tourism is

and ground water club.

Atioll), Kadhdhoo

wise China is number one

33,000

(Laamu

to the island nation have been It is the third

concerned. In February, the

Maldives is an archipelago

Atoll), Dharavandhoo (Baa

market for Maldives tourism.

country broke a record by

of 1190 islands scattered

Atoll), Kaadedhdhoo (Gaafu

Europe is major source mar-

having over 100,000 tourists

across the equator in the In-

Dhaalu Atoll and Fuvahmulah

ket for the countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s tourism

visit the destination in a single

dian

Beautiful

(Gnaviyani Atoll). The 4th

sector.

month. The year 2013 ended

beaches, colourful underwa-

Tourism Master of Maldives

For potential investors

Ocean.

Maldives achieving a new

ter world in a unique geo-

encourages regional develop-

Maldives offer the opportunity

milestone; reaching its tar-

graphic setting is the ideal

ment of tourism. These new

to invest in a stable environ-

geted one million visitors by

setting for the ultimate holi-

airports will act as hubs of the

ment that has seen 40 years of

the end of 2013. With the ris-

day destination.

regional development.

ing tourism demand, and the

Tourism which began as

New airports will not only

versatility and resilience of

an unplanned activity in 1972

increase accessibility for po-

MA RC H 20 14 | TNH (TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY)

sustained growth with attractive returns. by TNH DESK

International News

‘We want to promote Egypt as a preferred destination in India’ Egyptian Tourism aims to promote Egypt as one of the preferred destinations in India. Egypt considers India as an important future market for its tourism sector.

n an interview with TnH, Dr. Adel El Masry, Direc-

Dr. Adel El Masry Director of Egyptian Tourism Office in India

tor of Egyptian Tourism Of-

events whether they are

work with travel trade pub-

B2B or B2C,” said Masry.

lications. We also increased

Speaking about the market-

our

ing

media, cinema, domestic

strategy

Egypt

budget

for

outdoor

Tourism Board for India

flights, newspapers and on-

market, Masry said, “We

line campaign. We need

will be more focused on new

more support from trade as-

segments like honeymoon,

sociation

MICE, Diving, golf, religious

Travel Agents Association India

India

(TAAI),

and spiritual tourism.”

There would be four chan-

Agents Federation of India

Travel

nels to promote Egypt in In-

(TAFI).” He added, “India is

dian market.

These are

a big market. We share a lot

tour operators, media, air-

of thing with India, such as

fice in India spoke about the

considering its huge popula-

lines and official channels.

culture, foods, etc. We would

Egypt tourism plans to pro-

tion and expanding middle-

We will continue to support

be more focused on seg-

mote Egypt as tourism des-

class.”

Indian

tour

operators

ments like FITs, honey-

tination in India market.

Tourism has increased its

through

joint

campaign,

mooners, MICE, adventure

“We want to promote Egypt

budget for Indian market.

training and fam trips.

as one of the preferred des-

“We have already increased

tinations in India. We con-

our marketing and promo-

The

Egyptian

Explaining the marketing plans

the

tourism.”

He expressed

hope that with political sta-

Egyptian

bility returning in the coun-

sider India as one of our

tional budget for Indian

Tourism, Masry said, “We

try, better days for the

important markets. We see

market.

We will increase

have also increased our

Egyptian tourism will re-

a lot of potential in India

our participation in trade

budget for media. We would

turn.

New Japan website for Meetings and Event Planners

by TNH DESK

suit their events’ needs and much more. The comprehensive toolkits available for download, give planners access to images,

Japan

Tourism

National

videos and destination guides.

Organization

Planners can also submit event

(JNTO) and its convention di-

enquiries and proposals via the

vision, the Japan Convention

website.

Bureau (JCB), have launched

JNTO is involved in a

a new website for interna-

broad range of activities pro-

tional MICE planners. The

moting travel to Japan through site,

various activities overseas as

http://www.japanmeetings.org

well as tourism-promoting ac-

, is a handy tool for those

tivities in Japan. JNTO main-

planning conferences, corpo-

tains 13 offices in key cities

rate meetings and incentive

around the world, through

trips. The website provides in-

which a wide range of tourism-

formation on what Japan can

related promotions are carried

offer for international events;

out. Each overseas office is re-

testimonials & case studies; a

sponsible for promoting travel

list of unique venues and activ-

and tourism to Japan; one of

ities that are only available in

the most important functions is

Japan; a useful search function

to help the travel industry en-

that allows event planners to

courage their clients to visit

find cities and venues that best

Japan.

by TNH DESK

MA R CH 2014| TNH (TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY)

International News

Tourism Ireland hosts 1st ever India Market Seminar for Irish travel trade Tourism Ireland recently conducted an India Market Seminar for Irish suppliers at The Westbury Hotel in Dublin on January 30, 2014. he seminar was attended

culture of the west coast – will

by Leo Varadkar TD,

have tremendous appeal to In-

Transport,

dian travellers. Theconcept of

Tourism and Sport; HE Rad-

Minister

for

self-drive holidays is also

hika Lal Lokesh, Indian Am-

catching up among Indian

bassador to Ireland as well as

tourists

over 80 Irish suppliers includ-

growth in this segment, so this

From breathtaking land-

and

foresee

erating, Kuoni India.

grateful for that.” As part of these holidays

ing destination management

year we will be focusing on

scapes and rural idylls to

Kuoni recommends experi-

companies, airlines, hotels, at-

driving routes around the is-

buzzing

ences that include:

tractions and film companies.

land of Ireland as part of our

amazing festivals, the scenic

Seven-Days Highlights of

Leo Varadkar TD, Minis-

promotional activity in India.”

landscapes of Ireland are

Ireland Customised tour ex-

beautiful. Kuoni-SOTC offers

ploring Dublin & Belfast

ter for Transport, Tourism and Sport said, “Tourism to Ireland from India is growing and performing very well. In

Kuoni–SOTC launches Ireland Brochure for 2014

urban

hubs

and

holiday experiences that are

Nine-Days Irish Explorer

designed to explore and dis-

Coach tour exploring Dublin,

cover the very best of Ireland.

Donegal, Galway and Killar-

2012 we welcomed 21,000 vis-

Kuoni-SOTC in associa-

Speaking on the launch of

itors from India, a 17% in-

tion with Tourism Ireland has

the brochure Vishal Suri, CEO

crease onthe previous year

launched

exclusive

Tour Operating, Kuoni India

Way, Self-Drive tour exploring

and there is every indication

Brochure for Ireland for the

said “With the growing inter-

Dublin, Silgo, Westport, Gal-

of continued success in 2013

Indian travelers at the India

est seen in Ireland as a holi-

way, Dingle, Killarney and

and again in 2014. The Irish

Seminar at Dublin.

day destination, Kuoni-SOTC

Kinsale.

ney Nine- Days Wild Atlantic

Launch of an exclusive

brings to Indian travellers the

which launched in July 2011,

Ireland brochure by Kuoni

first Ireland-only brochure.

cation of two renowned travel

continues to attract more vis-

India at the India Market Sem-

Kuoni- SOTC experiences are

brands giving shape to the

itors from India. Another im-

inar reflects Ireland’s rapidly

designed to indulge in stun-

dream holidays of millions of

portant step forward has been

growing stature as a tourism

ning locales of Ireland, offer-

travellers.

advances on the airline access

destination in India.

ing personalized and unique

goodness and approachability

Visa

Waiver

Programme,

This

Kuoni - SOTC is the unifi-

Embodying

the

front. The growth in direct

brochure is the first of its kind

experiences of discovering the

of ‘SOTC’ and the global ex-

flights from the Middle East to

dedicated brochure for Ire-

destination”.

pertise and explorer imagery

Dublin has significantly im-

land by an Indian tour opera-

proved access from India to

tor.

Niall Tourism

Gibbons, Ireland

CEO,

of ‘Kuoni’, Kuoni- SOTC is the

stated,

new age innovative holiday

the islandof Ireland. This will

The brochure was un-

“Tourism Ireland has been

further improve access, avail-

veiled in the presence of es-

working very closely with

Its mainstream holiday

ability and connectivity be-

teemed

Kuoni Travel in India over the

business is a leader in all

tween Ireland and many

included the Ireland Tourism

years to develop some special

travel segments namely Es-

Indian cities.

Minister, Leo Varadkar T.D,

itineraries, offering its cus-

corted Tours, Free Individual

CEO,

the Indian Ambassador to Ire-

tomers a unique experience of

Travel and Domestic Holidays

Tourism Ireland stated, “In

land, Radhika Lokesh, CEO

Ireland. We are happy to an-

amongst others. Our MICE di-

2014, we will place a major

Tourism Ireland, Mr. Niall Gib-

nounce the launch of an exclu-

vision is the leader in Incen-

Niall

Gibbons,

members

that

maker.

focus on highlighting the Wild

bons, Tourism Ireland India

sive

tive Travel. Its vast array of

Atlantic Way. We believe this

Rep, Huzan Fraser & Beena

Ireland which demonstrates

holiday services is taking hol-

exciting new tourism experi-

Menon, Tourism Ireland Head

Kuoni’s confidence and com-

idaying to an entirely new

ence – showcasing the spec-

Markets, Mr. Simon Gregory

mitment towards the island of

level.

tacular scenery and unique

and Vishal Suri, CEO Tour Op-

Ireland, and we are very

MAR CH 201 4| TNH (TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY)

Kuoni

brochure

by TNH DESK

International News

Portuguese Tourism delegation conducts India Marketing Blitz 20 member Portugal delegates interact with 500 Indian travel trade members in Chennai, Bangalore and Mumbai

iven the importance and

pany ‘Cinemate’ also traveled

potential of India as a

with the delegates to interact

source market for leisure and

with the Tamil, Kannada and

business visitors to the Portu-

Mumbai’s own Bollywood in-

gal; the tourism authority of

dustry officials.

the Government of Portugal

Commenting on the delega-

(Turismo de Portugal) led a 20

tion visit, Claudia Miguel, Trade

member delegation on a 3 city

Relations, Marketing & Promo-

workshop session covering the

tion Division for Tourism of Por-

Southern states of Karnataka

tugal said: “The workshop

Nadu

provided a platform for the Por-

sort & Hotel, Sofitel Lisbon

ment, Turismo de Portugal is

(Chennai) and the important

(Bangalore),

Tamil

tuguese delegation to interact

Liberdade,

Hotels,

the national tourism authority

outbound hub of Mumbai in the

and establish commercial rela-

Penha Longa, Ritz Carlton

responsible for promotion, en-

Western state of Maharash-

tionships with Indian travel

Hotel, Vila Gale Hotels, RDMC,

hancement and sustainability

tra.Through this marketing ini-

agents, tour operators, wedding

Oasistravel.net, Osiris Travel,

of tourism activities, aggregat-

SANA

tiative, the Government of

planners, and corporate travel

Quasar, VEGA & destination

ing within a single entity all the

Portugal along with several des-

agencies to further boost Portu-

management companies such

institutional competencies re-

tination management compa-

gal’s image as Europe’s premier

as In Tours Portugal – DMC,

lated to stimulation of tourism

nies, Portuguese hoteliers and

leisure and MICE destination

Vinitur - DMC, Lusanova DMC,

activities, from the supply sec-

resort owners interacted with

that offers value for money.”

Mr. Travel Portugal – Luxury

tor to demand. Using its priv-

500 Indian private sector organ-

Accompanying the govern-

DMC and Vista DMC, Cinemate

ilege relationship with other

izations comprising travel com-

ment official of Turismo de Por-

– a movie production company

public bodies and economic

panies, tour operators, wedding

tugal is the Portuguese private

& Dubai’s own national carrier

agents

planners / organizers and even

sector delegation comprising

- Emirates Airlines.

abroad, Turismo de Portugal

film producers and location

hotels, destination manage-

Turismo de Portugal, I.P. is

managers across the 3 cities.

ment companies & tour opera-

an organization that aims to

jective

tors.

Participants included

foster development of Por-

tourism as one of the core

tap the increasing film industry

GeoStar Destination Manage-

tuguese tourism. Integrated

growth engines of the Por-

role in destination promotion;

ment, Four Seasons Hotel Ritz

within the Ministry of the Econ-

tuguese economy.

Portugal’s line production com-

Lisbon, Martinhal Beach Re-

omy, Innovation and Develop-

As part of its mandate to

MAR CH 201 4| TNH (TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY)

Portugal

and

is dedicated to fulfilling its obof

strengthening

by TNH DESK

International News

42nd Hong Kong Arts Festival commences he Hong Kong Arts Festi-

140 performances, including

val (HKAF) -- the pinna-

13 world premieres and 17

cle of Hong Kong’s performing

Asian premieres – and this

arts events -- showcases

year promises even more.

Asia’s top talents alongside

iNfo when: 18 February to 22 march 2014 where: hong Kong Tickets can be booked online on www.hk.artsfestival.org

The

various

theatre,

leading artists from around

music,

the world. The festival show-

events will be conducted in

cases an assorted mix of clas-

different venues. Some of

dance

and

opera

sical and contemporary works

which are Hong Kong Cultural

that reaches an audience of 1,

Centre, HK Academy for Per-

20,000 people including the

forming Arts, and Hong Kong

participants of the Festival’s

City Hall. Genres that can be

Young Friends Scheme. The

witnessed at the 42nd Hong

festival’s broad spectrum of

Kong Arts Festival include

events pitches to a wide range

classical

of appetites, from the classi-

music, world music, Western

cal, to the avant-garde, to the

opera, Chinese opera, drama

electrifying.

and dance. Each festival in-

music,

Chinese

Heading into its 42nd run

cludes concerts by each of

in 2014, the HKAF is one of

Hong Kong Philharmonic Or-

Asia’s top cultural events,

chestra, Hong Kong Chinese

hosting a stellar spectrum of

Orchestra and Hong Kong

performances. Last year, the

Sinfonietta.

festival presented more than

by TNH DESK

MA R CH 2014| TNH (TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY)

International News

Call of panoramic mountain rides and Swiss watch-making tour

to Switzerland is from April to June. India had around 90 per cent leisure and 10 per cent business tourists to Switzerland in the previous year.

Switzerland Tourism has set the ball rolling to tempt a large number of Indian tourists with the launch of Swiss Peak Pass, Geneva Masala Map, Geneva Watch Tour and Geneva Transport Card.

There are a range of apartments at Lucerne that provide comfortable accommodation

Swaati Chaudhury

clocked a growth of 250 per

est known as the land of

cent over the last 10 years in

Stephan Heuberger, Director,

spectacular

mountain

the Indian market. MICE

Switzerland Tourism informed,

rides and panoramic trains of-

travel is on the rise among In-

fering great scenic views, Switzerland is a dream holiday destination for Indian travellers.

Switzerland

Tourism has been one of the premier European tourism groups to set its foot in the Indian soil and prides in having Stephan Heuberger Director, Switzerland Tourism

options for Indian travellers.

a presence of 15 years in India. In its latest efforts to woo a sizeable chunk of Indian tourists from the eastern region and other parts of India, Switzerland

Tourism

has

rolled out its Summer Campaign 2014 to highlight the significance of the country as the ultimate destination for nature lovers and adventurebuffs. Switzerland Tourism has declared 2014 as the “Year of Views”

since

there

are

panoramic trails, mountain trains providing incredibly exciting experience with grand views restaurants and cities offering spectacular views of snow-capped mountains.

Snapshot Fresh initiatives of Switzerland Tourism in India: •Launched its Summer Campaign 2014. •2014 declared as the “Year of Views”. •Greater focus on MICE travel. •Working with Thomas Cook and Kuoni Travel to impart training to small travel agents. •Targeting family travellers and youth segment. •Launch of Geneva Masala Map in bilingual Hindi and English. •Geneva Watch tour on offer. •Geneva Transport Card for tourists. •Swiss Peak Pass offering a ride of fascinating eight summits.

“Indian tourists are now travRitu Sharma Deputy Director, Switzerland Tourism

elling for longer duration to Switzerland and are including

tion in tier-II and tier-III cities

London or Paris in their itiner-

of India like Nagpur and

ary. We have high-valued trav-

Chandigarh and emphasize on

ellers from Kolkata and the

social media. Swiss destina-

tourist traffic from the city is

tions are much-in demand

growing in Switzerland. The

from travellers all over India

most-loved destinations are

but the demand from smaller

Lucerne, Gstaad and Mt Titlis

cities is on the increasing

for Indian tourists. Besides,

trend.” The tourism group has

Swiss International Airlines

hosted road shows in Kolkata

flying from Mumbai and New

and Guwahati in North-east-

Delhi and Gulf Carriers are in-

ern region in the New Year.

creasing their frequencies from

Switzerland plays a power-

these Indian metros.”

ful brand in the global tourist

In a friendly gesture to wel-

market. In an attempt to boost

come more number of Indian

social media marketing, the

tourists, Geneva Masala Map

tourism group has unveiled its

has been launched in English

website-MySwitzerland.com.

and Hindi for Indian visitors.

Sharma added, “We are laying

Another tempting offer is

a special focus on two groups

Geneva Watch Tour that

of Indian tourists including

takes tourists on a tour of his-

family travellers and the youth

torical monuments and bou-

comprising school and college-

tiques to discover the famed,

goers in the age bracket of 12

500-year-old watch industry

to 24 years. Our target growth

in the city. Tourists can avail

in India is around 10 per cent

of Geneva Transport Card to

in the current period and this

access free public transport

Ritu Sharma, Deputy Direc-

dian business travellers and

will take overnights beyond

during

tor, Switzerland Tourism said,

there would be a greater focus

550,000 marks. There were

Travel System is into offering

“India figures among our top

on MICE travel in the current

around 510,000 overnights

Swiss Peak Pass to tourists to

their

stay.

Swiss

12 source markets and we

period.

We are working

from India last year. Incentive

travel up to eight mountain

have plans to take our latest

closely with Thomas Cook and

travel would rise up from India

summits, free public trans-

bounties to end-consumers.

Kuoni Travel (India) to impart

this year. Mumbai and Gujarat

port across the country and

We are looking to create

training session for small

contribute a major chunk of

free visit to 470 museums.

awareness and desire in the

travel agents on Swiss travel

outbound travellers to Switzer-

The pass is valid from Janu-

hearts of Indian travellers.

in the current year. We would

land. ” The most convenient

ary 1 to December 23, this

Our

go on with our tourism promo-

travel period for Indian tourists

year.

MA RC H 20 14 | TNH (TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY)

tourism

group

has

International News

Mesmerizing tourists with German magical cities GNTO is optimistic about the current growth rate of Indian tourist traffic to Germany. Swaati Chaudhury imed

educate

the

Kolkata travel agents and

to facilitate interactions between India Pool members and the travel fraternity of Bengal, German National Tourist Office (GNTO) organized Germany India Pool Road Show in Kolkata sometime on February 13, this year. Germany happens to be the only European counRomit Theophilus Director, Sales and Marketing, GNTO

tourist arrivals this year. Indian

Route in India including Bre-

cedes-Benz Museum is in

travellers on a tour of German

men, Disney Castle, Hamelin

Stuttgart and Dresden is well-

destinations are lured by the af-

and Little Red Riding Hood

known to have some of the

fordable hospitality, culinary

Country in the ongoing period.

best art collections in the

delights, fun festival, mesmer-

It’s been since 2007 that The

world. Oktoberfest- the largest

izing nature, shoppers’ para-

Fairy Tale Route has been pro-

global beer festival is held in

Snapshot GNTO intends to promote: •Magical cities of Munich, Dresden, Frankfurt and Hamburg. •Fairy Tale Route. •Romantic Getaway. •Mercedes-Benz Museum in Stuttgart. •Oktoberfest in Munich.

moted in India since 2007 and

Munich in autumn months

takes off from Kassel at Broth-

every year.

ers Grimm Museum. Heidelberg

Castle

has

Theophilus added, “Berlin,

timeless

Munich, Stuttgart, Cologne

historic quarters and is best

and Frankfurt are the hottest

known as a romantic getaway.

destinations for Indian trav-

The UNESCO listed World Her-

ellers. India had around 15 per

itage Site of Koblenz provides

cent MICE tourists to Ger-

grand views of the Upper Mid-

many in the previous year. In-

dle Rhine Valley. Theophilus

dian business travellers flying

said, “Germany gets the highest

to Germany were around 65

number of Indian tourists from

per cent and leisure tourists

New Delhi, Mumbai, Ben-

were 35 per cent last year. Al-

try that has received a record-

dise, upgraded infrastructure,

galuru and Chennai. Kolkata

though there was economic

breaking number of Indian

romantic getaways, wellness

ranks sixth in position in

slowdown, we witnessed a

travellers last year. The road show had tourism boards from Bavaria, Cologne

and comfortable travel options.

terms of outbound travellers

growth of 5 per cent in the flow

Most Indians prefer to holiday

to Germany.” GNTO would

of Indian visitors last year.

for three days in Germany.”

hold road shows in major met-

Around 2,500 leisure visas were

and Saxony. Romit Theophilus,

Munich, Dresden, Frankfurt

Director, Sales and Marketing,

and Hamburg are the magical

ros and cities like Ahmedabad

issued in eastern India last

and Cochin in 2014.

year. Kolkata has an immense

GNTO explained, “As many as

German cities that manage to

One can get stunning sights

market potential and we are

6 lakh Indian tourists flew to

fascinate even the most sceptic

of the Alps, the world’s highest

hopeful that the tourist traffic

Germany last year and we are

visitors. The tourism board is

mountain peak in Bavaria.

from Kolkata would go up by 10

looking ahead for double digit

eager to promote the Fairy Tale

The world’s one and only Mer-

per cent this year.”

Overwhelming response to Germany India Pool Road Show GNTO India Pool showcases Destination Germany in Chennai, Kolkata and Mumbai.

he Germany India Pool

educate, inform about experi-

roadshow which was re-

ences and various activities,

cently conducted in Chennai,

GNTO organizes the India

Kolkata & Mumbai, received

Pool

an excellent response from

twice a year.

multi-city

roadshow

the travel trade in the city, fur-

Romit Theophilus, Direc-

awareness of destination Ger-

rupee and the economic sce-

witnessed

ther aiding in interactions

tor Sales & Marketing, The

many’s attractions besides

nario. We are optimistic for

overnights. We are glad to

with the trade on the Best

German National Tourist Of-

providing regular updates to

2014 and expect the growth

learn that the travel trade in

Selling Practices for the desti-

fice, India, said “Over the

the travel trade and media.

rate to be back in double dig-

all these cities understands

nation. With the increased in-

years, the initiative of India

2013 witnessed 5 % growth

its. For the period January-

and support Germany as a

terest in Germany, and to

Pool has resulted in a greater

despite the devaluation of

November 2013, Germany has

destination”

5,81,374

visitor

by TNH DESK

MA R CH 2014| TNH (TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY)

Event Watch

Brand USA Pavilion at SATTE 2014 Travel and tourism suppliers from US led by Brand USA attended Indiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leading B2B travel and tourism show SATTE 2014 that took place in New Delhi recently. Brand US pavilion was inaugurated by US Ambassador to India, Nancy Powell.

M ARCH 20 14| TNH (TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY)

International News

India is biggest market in Asia for Kenya India has always been an important source market for Kenya as a tourist destination. In 2012 over 61,275 Indian tourists travelled to Kenya.

Magical Kenya Expert certificate given to Travel Trade Inauguration of Kenya Stall at SATTE by H.E Florence I. Weche, High Commissioner of Kenya to India

ndia is the 4th largest

pation.

source market with 6.9%

H.E Florence I. Weche,

market share till June 2013.

High Commissioner of Kenya

Since 2009 India has regis-

to India said, “We see a lot of

tered a growth of 68% in the

potential in Indian market and

number of tourist’s receipts.

that’s why we are marketing

Kenya has come up with lot of

more now. Our objective is to

promotions and activities to

reach over 2,00,000 Indian

highlight the destination in

tourists in the next five years.

India and attract the avid trav-

In terms of arrivals, India is

elers.

ranked 4th market after UK,

Kenya Tourism Board re-

US and Italy for Kenya. We are

cently participated in SATTE,

focusing on weddings, high

New Delhi. It is a B2B event or-

end travelers, honeymoon,

ganized every year, emphasiz-

sports and Bollywood. India

Kenya Stall at SATTE

ing on developments in travel

and Kenya has a lot of histori-

the android and iOS platforms.

and tourism. At the event

cal connection and it is easy

The Magical Kenya App is

‘Magical Kenya Expert’ certifi-

for Indians to connect with the

designed to make travellers

cate were given to the Travel

country.”

experience seamless by pro-

Trade by H.E Florence I.

One of the main highlight of

viding them access to the lat-

Weche, High Commissioner of

the event was the launch of

est

Kenya to India. KTB along

first ever mobile application;

information about destinations

and

most

important

with 12 private participants,

The Magical Kenya App. This

in Kenya. It is a perfect travel

including tour operators, hote-

mobile application aims to in-

companion,

liers, service providers and

crease arrivals to the country

tourists to explore the capti-

helping

the

DMC’s from Kenya were pres-

by providing an opportunity

vating country and forming

ent to showcase their product

through which the tourists find

their own customised itiner-

line for Indian market.

reliable information about

aries on the go.

Kenya Tourist Board stall

Kenya, plan their trips and

Kenya is a destination which

witnessed good numbers in

share their holiday experi-

has diversified product range

terms of Travel Trade visitors

ences in form of videos. This

for all kinds of travellers.

and great spectator’s partici-

application is available on both

by TNH DESK

From L to R : Betty Ichan, Regional Marketing Manager-Emering Markets Kenya Tourism Board, H.E Florence I. Weche, High Commissioner of Kenya to India

MA R CH 2014| TNH (TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY)

In Conversation

lieved in providing the right products and technologies for our customers to grow their business and improve efficiencies,” said Parashar. He added, “One major landmark achievement for us has been that we got voted as the ‘Best GDS in Asia Pacific’ at TTG awards for fifth successive year and ‘Best GDS in India’ for third consecutive year at TAAI awards in 2013. This is tremendous achievement since both these awards are based on customer voting.” ITQ will continue to focus on its strategy of being customer focused by continuing to invest in more seamless and advanced technologies for our travel partners. “Our transparency and integrity in the market, quality of service and providing 24 x 7 supports to our customers will

Anil Parashar President & CEO Interglobe Technology Quotient

stand us apart from our customers,” said Parashar.

Customer satisfaction would be key focus area for us: Anil Parashar In Conversation with TnH, Anil Parashar, President & CEO of Interglobe Technology Quotient ( ITQ) talks about the company’s focus areas and its growth strategy.

“

Our focus would continue to be the leader in bringing in advanced and ground breaking technologies for our customers which will help them gain efficiencies in their business.

“

MA RC H 20 14 | TNH (TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY)

As regards the future of GDS in India, and the role of companies like ITQ evolving in future, Parashar said, “Indian market will also see the evolving of the GDS in times to come. They will continue to Innovate and evolve with the times by offering new and unique products and offerings to their customers. The GDS will be the harbinger of change and will continue to shape the travel distribution in years to come.”

Prem Kumar ITQ aims to continue to be leader in bring-

USP

ing in advanced and ground breaking

ITQ along with Travelport has always

technologies for its customers. “Our focus

been at forefront of providing new and

would continue to be the leader in bring-

ground breaking technology to its travel

ing in advanced and ground breaking

partners. “We continue to be the harbin-

technologies for our customers which will

ger of change by creating solutions and

help them gain efficiencies in their busi-

product offerings that are customized to

ness. Customer satisfaction would be our

enhance travel partner’s efficiency and ef-

key area and we are very excited that we

fectiveness,” said Parashar. He added,

would be launching some key products in

“We continue to retain our focus on cus-

near future for our customers,” said

tomer service and improving service de-

Parashar.

liveries for the same. We are very excited as we are looking at launching some rev-

Growing strength

from

strength

olutionary products in near future for our customers.”

Over the last two decades ITQ has grown from strength to strength in terms of prod-

Pan India presence

ucts and offerings. “We have always be-

ITQ provides cutting edge travel technol-

In Conversation

ogy solutions with unmatched in-

resources in our services and sup-

are equally committed to work

Travelport Galileo has always re-

ventory options to its customers

port teams to ensure that we are

closely with our supplier partners

mained at the forefront of bringing

helping them increase their produc-

well equipped to respond to cus-

and bring in value addition to our

in innovation for the partners.

tivity and business efficiency. ITQ is

tomer needs. Service delivery re-

customers. All our investments are

In terms of opportunities and

the official distributor of Travelport

mains our utmost priority to

towards constantly developing new

challenges, “There is a healthy fu-

Galileo in India and Sri Lanka, and

support our customers,” said

products that evolve the needs of the

ture for the travel & tourism indus-

travel community.”

that of Travelport Worldspan,

Parashar. He added, “Very soon you

through Calleo Distribution Tech-

would be seeing some ground

nologies Pvt. Ltd. in five markets

breaking products that will change

try in India. The country offers investors an enormous potential in

Tier-II and - III cities

domestic market, with an increase

across the Asia Pacific region.

the dynamics of the way business is

“We see a tremendous growth story

in GDP growth over the years pro-

Parashar said, “We are well repre-

conducted. These products have

in India in Tier-II, Tier-III cities in

viding a substantial boost to out-

sented across India with an ex-

been hugely successful in the inter-

the coming months. The real trav-

bound travel figures,” said Parashar.

tended network in over 500 cities.

national market.”

eler will evolve from these markets

“The air travel industry, in particu-

and would help in driving the de-

lar, is expected to be subject to a

With 20 dedicated offices, ITQ reaches out to over 12,500 agencies

Travelport Rooms & More

mand in the industry. It is a tremen-

range of investment programmes,

and it has a nationalized service

ITQ is focused and committed to

dous opportunity for us to be

with work continuing to see the

centre and 13 training centres with

provide value addition to its part-

present in these markets and have

sector recover from the manage-

state-of-the-art infrastructure and

ners. “A part of this endeavour has

the ability to service these aspira-

rial and economic problems expe-

facilities of international standards.

been the launch of Travelport

tions of the new age traveller,” said

rienced in 2011 and 2012,” said

Rooms and More which will revolu-

Parashar.

Parashar, adding, “We are very ex-

Upcoming opportunities

tionize the way the hotel bookings

cited about 2014 as we seek to

ITQ is gearing up to make the

are created by the travel agents. It

most from the upcoming opportuni-

does not only provide a huge variety

Milestones India

achieved

ties. “We at ITQ understand the

of content from multiple aggrega-

Travelport Galileo has been at the

launch some really ground breaking products and technology offerings for our customers. These

needs and requirements of cus-

tors, but also enables seamless com-

forefront of delivering technological

offerings will change the dynamics

tomers and thus over the past cou-

mission remittance for the travel

milestones for the industry. Whether

of how the industry is going to

ple of years we have invested huge

agents,” said Parashar, adding, “We

it is technology or product offering,

function in future.”

Gita Ramesh’s ‘The Ayurvedic Cookbook, Get fit in Just Two Weeks” released Book by Roli Publications Reveals Secret Weight Management Recipes of Kairali. enowned

Ramesh said “Anybody

version with local ingredients

a two week chart is provided as

with absolutely no cooking

to make one fit by providing

ready reckoner. If followed cor-

skills can also follow these sim-

proper DIY diet chart, this book

rectly one can get healthy and fit in just two weeks.

ple and quick recipes and eat

translates ancient knowledge

fresh and hot food. We selected

into practical, easy to follow

Spread across 9 countries

each dish by keeping in mind

guide with simple recipes as

with 35 treatment centers, and

today’s trend of eating habits

said by Dr. P.R. Krishnakumar

residential Ayurvedic health re-

and taste. The book contains all

MD, Arya Vaidya Pharmacy

treats, Kairali Ayurvedic Group

3 proper square vegetarian

Group.

is famous for its medicinal and

Ayurvedic

meals keeping Ayurveda intact.

The Ayurveda Cookbook of-

cosmetics products and a big

Practitioner and Joint

With few books available on

fers recipes that are simple,

name in Spa and Wellness industry.

Managing Director of the

healthy cooking, the USP of the

fresh, organic and easily di-

Kairali Ayurvedic Group, Gita

book is, it tells the nutritional

gestible. These recipes are ef-

The groups business prac-

Ramesh released her second

and medicinal value of every

fective in keeping the body

tices extend to traditional

book ‘The Ayurvedic Cookbook:

fruit, vegetable and spice used

healthy and disease free.

Ayurvedic medicine created

Get fit in Just Two Week’.

in daily life. The book is compi-

Published by Roli Publication the book also contains some herbal therapies like

“Indian kitchen acts as a

lation of healthy, Ayurvedic and

medicine cabinet, with many

easily digestible recipes.

homemade remedies. I would ‘The

like to impart all this knowl-

also offers spa franchise op-

edge which I acquired over the

portunities, helping spa own-

Navarakizhi, apart from reveal-

won many awards in the

years, through this book’ fur-

ers around the world develop

ing secret weight management

Ayurveda sector.

ther added Ramesh .

Ayurvedic wellness centers,

Making

book

Kairali Ayurvedic Group

Ayurveda Herbal Massage’ had

time.

first

the ancient Vedas.

Elakizhi, Udwarthanam and

recipes of Kairali, for the 1st

Her

from the precise instructions of

regular

dishes

To make the herbal diet

more suitable and in a healthier

easy-to-understand and follow,

health retreats and spa hotels.

by TNH DESK

Appointment News Manish Garg Hilton Garden Inn Trivandrum

Vishal Singh Hyatt Pune

Hemant Tenneti Courtyard by Marriott Pune Chakan

Vishal Singh is the General Man-

Manish Garg has been appointed

Marriott International has ap-

ager of Hyatt Pune. Vishal comes

General Manager for Hilton Garden

pointed Hemant Tenneti as Hotel

with about 18 years of experience

Inn Trivandrum, the upscale hotel

Manager of Courtyard by Mar-

in the hospitality industry. An as-

strategically located in the city cen-

riott Pune Chakan. With a career

tute, responsible and a result ori-

tre on Punnen Road, near prime

spanning over 15 years in the

ented individual, Vishal has a deep

government institutions and com-

field of Food & Beverage and con-

understanding of the hospitality in-

mercial establishments.

vention business, Hemant under-

dustry after having worked at various hotels in

Manish brings with him over 17 years of experience

takes the reign of Courtyard Chakan from

Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai and Goa. As the General

in the hospitality industry. He has held several posi-

Renaissance Mumbai Convention Centre Hotel

Manager of Hyatt Pune, Vishal’s key responsibility

tions in Food and Beverage Operations as well as

and Marriott Executive Apartments where he was

would be to ensure the smooth functioning of the

Conference and Events with Four Seasons and Mar-

the Director of Food & Beverage. In his new role,

property. Hyatt Pune prides itself as an ideal hospi-

riott Hotels & Resorts in India, Australia and the

Hemant will be overseeing the daily operations of

tality destination for business and leisure travellers.

United Kingdom.

the hotel along with brand management.

Gajendra Singh Hive Alwar Hive Alwar has appointed Gajen-

Anuj Soin Courtyard by Marriott Gurgaon Courtyard by Marriott Gurgaon

Ramana Prasad Pullman Gurgaon Central Park Pullman Gurgaon Central Park

dra Singh as the new General

has appointed Anuj Soin as its

has appointed Ramana Prasad as

Manager recently. Hive Alwar is a

Events Manager – F&B. Anuj will

Director of Human Resources. Ra-

modern international standard

work closely with the sales depart-

mana’s experience in the hospital-

hotel that boasts of uncompro-

ment to ensure maximum prof-

ity industry spans almost two

mised luxury in the form of best

itability and oversee food &

decades. Ramana’s objective will

services & facilities amidst the pic-

beverage operations to maintain high service stan-

be to conceptualise and implement HR Strategies

turesque surroundings of Alwar. Gajendra holds a

dards. He will ensure consistent quality in terms of

that support business and financial objectives, to

masters degree in Tourism Management. Along

food services in restaurants, bar, rooms and ban-

further strengthen Pullman Gurgaon Central Park’s

with his extensive experience of over 12 years in

quets. Anuj comes with over 8 years of experience in

position, as an employer of choice. He has good ex-

the hospitality industry, he has shown his capabil-

operations and training. Anuj was associated with

posure in the hospitality industry, primarily with

ity of managing most of the department.

The Leela, Gurgaon and Taj Rambagh Palace, Jaipur.

Accor and The Park Hotel at Hyderabad.

Ashok Eapen K. Hilton Garden Inn Trivandrum

Chef Karumariappan Sundarajan Hilton Garden Inn Trivandrum

Mayank Pandey Tux Hospitality

Ashok Eapen K. has been ap-

Chef Karumariappan Sundarajan

Mayank Pandey has been recently

pointed Executive Chef for Hilton

has been appointed as Pastry

appointed as the Head of Sales at

Garden Inn Trivandrum, the up-

Chef for Hilton Garden Inn

Tux Hospitality, the Hotel Man-

scale hotel strategically located in

Trivandrum, the upscale yet af-

agement, Operations and Market-

the city centre on Punnen Road.

fordable hotel strategically lo-

ing Company. Mayank is a highly

Chef Eapen will oversee the hotel's

cated in the city centre on Punnen

competent professional crusader,

F&B operations, which includes

Road, near prime government in-

with over 13 years of experience in

the all-day-dining restaurant, Garden Grille; the

stitutions and commercial establishments. With 18

Operations/ Client servicing/ Sales & Marketing in

trendy VBar and 24-hour in-room dining service.

years’ experience in baking, production and cater-

the Hospitality Industry. Having worked with estab-

Chef Eapen brings with him over 12 years of experi-

ing, Chef Sundarajan is skilled in the art of baking

lished brands like Jaypee Palace Hotel & Convention

ence in the hospitality industry. Previous he was the

and pastry. He joined Hilton Garden Inn Trivan-

Centre, Park Inn and Park Plaza in the past the key

Sous Chef at Vivanta by Taj - Malabar, Kerala, and

drum in October 2013, as part of the hotel’s core

functional areas in his purview includes Business

later he moved on to become the Chef-in-Charge.

pre-opening team.

Development, Operations and Client servicing.

MAR CH 201 4| TNH (TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY)