Asian Traveller October 2016 by Mediasteps

Vol. 10

No. 1

Pages 36

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October 2016

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Highlights Vol. 10 I No.1 I October 2016

Cover Story: KTM 2016- a grand success A scan of Kerala Travel Mart 2016 which concluded recently

Wildlife wonders in the UK

Discover the distinct species of Britain

Qatar cruise season begins The worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest privately owned residential yacht, The World docks at Doha Port marking the beginning of Qatarâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 16-17 cruise season

23 12 Luxury travel on trains A look at super luxury cruise trains run by Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC)

Yercaud- Jewel of the South

Dr. S. Bakthavatchalam, Additional Director, Tamil Nadu Tourism on Yercaud and why it tops in his list of favourite destinations

FROM THE EDITOR'S DESK

CHEERFUL OUTLOOK FOR TOURISM

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he inclusion of Kakkathuruth in the select list of stunning destinations across the world compiled by the National Geographic magazine could boost the prospects of God’s Own Country in the world tourism circuit, especially at the World Travel Market (WTM) in London, which will be held during November 7-9. Incidentally, state tourism secretary Dr. V Venu is among the panelists at the travel fair and India Tourism is the premier partner of the event. While making the announcement in July, WTM has also listed Kerala as a premier destination in the country along with Golden Triangle (Delhi, Agra and Jaipur), Rajasthan, Goa, Kashmir and North East. The state’s responsible tourism (RT) initiatives and products are expected to be highlighted at this year’s World Travel Market. The event marks 20 years of responsible tourism and 10 years of World Responsible Tourism Day observances. Meanwhile, the WTM website has termed the ‘spice-rich land’ a rare blend of myth and history and listed ayurveda, leisure and culture products of Kerala. “Blessed with a rich bounty of natural attractions, Kerala’s serene beaches, enchanting backwaters, mist-clad hill stations, lush green forests and exotic wildlife offer a multitude of experiences to tourists,” it says. Kerala, according to the WTM, is the only place in the world where ayurveda is practised to perfection. According to industry players participation in this year’s WTM is crucial as this is the first WTM after Brexit, the impact of which is yet to get reflected in the tourism industry here.

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Cover Story KTM

KTM - a grand success

he ninth edition of Kerala Travel Mart 2016, the largest gathering of tourism stakeholders in the State which concluded at Samudrika Convention Centre, Willington Island, Kochi witnessed around one lakh business meetings. Focusing on a single destination, KTM is one of its kind events in India which provided both scheduled and unscheduled business meetings for tourism stakeholders. Conceived for the first time in 2000, each KTM grew in popularity in the following years. Taking place once in two years, KTM has got an impressive response from the sellers as well as the buyers. KTM 2016 had 560 international buyers from 57 countries and 1300 domestic buyers. Apart from that there were prefixed appointments introduced for international

and domestic buyers to ensure confirmed meetings with the sellers which all contributed to the success of KTM 16 which took from September 28-30. Over the first two days there were 60,000 scheduled meetings. The final day was open to the public and it is estimated that almost 40,000 unscheduled meetings took place on the last day. Overall, the response from the buyers and sellers has been overwhelming, says KTM Society President Abraham George. Tourism and trade officials from Kerala, other state tourism departments, tour operators, hoteliers, travel agents, resorts, houseboats, and homestays had stalls in the mart. The sellers had quality appointments with potential buyers during the Mart. “Even the firsttimers are excited as the KTM 16 has helped them to

guaranteed business in the future,” he added. For the first time in KTM, buyers from China, Japan, South Korea, Saudi Arabia, Mexico, Georgia, Chile, Greece, Iran and Botswana were also featured. KTM 16 had 265 stalls over an expansive venue and the total number of registrations recorded to 1,380 including both foreign and Indian delegates. KTM 2016 had as its core themes: ‘Responsible Tourism’ and ‘Muziris and Spice Route’. KTM 16 had also its focus aiming to project Kerala as a sustainable modern destination and improve the visitors’ experience. The nine-point agenda for action calls for measures to better waste management, promote organic farming, efficient use of renewable source of energy, extensive use of local produce, rainwater harvesting, reducing the

use of plastics, improving greenery, creating more job opportunities within local community and promotion of local arts, crafts and cuisines.

The live experience at KTM 16 Kerala Tourism’s pavilion inaugurated by Suman Billa IAS, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Tourism, Dr V Venu and U V Jose IAS, Director, Kerala Tourism had been the star attraction of the mart. A pavilion themed on the Muziris Heritage Project and Spice Route was inaugurated by Kerala Tourism Development Corporation Chairman M Vijayakumar. The Responsible Tourism Village Life Experience Stall at the KTM 16 venue which had live demo of clay pot making, traditional archery experience by Govindan Wayanad had many takers. Stalls themed

Mr. A C Moideen, Tourism Minister, Govt. of Kerala Inaugurating Asian Traveller 10th Anniversary special.

ASIAN TRAVELLER | October 2016

Cover Story KTM

on houseboats, wooden forest cabins, spice bazaars and homestays grabbed attention of many buyers. The wedding themed stall of UDS Samudra promoting wedding destination was also a variety among the stalls. Daphne Richards, 84, from Hampshire, England who had visited Kerala for more than 24 times in the past 16 years and for the first time at KTM grabbed much media attention. Marari beach tops in the pick of her favourite spots in Kerala and she makes it a point to stay at Marari every time she visits Kerala. Joint Secretary Suman Billa said tourism sector could only progress by including local people and empowering local communities. “Measures have been taken to implement Responsible Tourism throughout the state. At present it has been implemented only in seven tourist centres of the state,” said Rupesh Kumar, State Co-Ordinator Responsible Tourism.

measures to implement mechanisms to stop open defecation in the state by November, the official start of the tourist season. To conserve the quality of Ayurveda he also mentioned that only qualified professionals should be allowed in the ayurveda sector. An ayurveda training centre in this regard is also before the government.

growth for tourism and will showcase Kerala’s vibrancy as a tourist destination to the world.

He hoped that KTM 16 will help the tourism sector of Kerala to contribute Rs.5000 crore in the coming five years by bringing more tourists and business opportunities to the state. State Tourism Minister AC Moideen during his speech at the inauguration pointed out the role played by tourism in providing opportunities in employment, preserving traditions and engaging local communities.

Aftermath of KTM 16

Dr V Venu, Principal Secretary (Tourism) remarked that KTM 16 will be seen as a catalyst for inclusive, accessible

and exhibitions (MICE) as a sector to grow, the new liquor policy diverted many business opportunities to neighbouring states and countries. They are hopeful about LDF government’s assurance that it would soon bring out a tourism friendly liquor policy.

After the mart, KTM society had arranged FAM (familiarisation) trips to interested delegates to popular destinations of the State and to experience its rich heritage, culture and cuisine. KTM Society remarked that the response to KTM 16 was overwhelming. The fact that there were big representations from US, Canada, Australia and China as buyers adds more hope to convert them into business. China who participated for the first time in KTM had as many as 20 buyers from the country. The Society also expressed their dissatisfaction over the new excise policy implemented. Even though state tourism had put its focus on meetings, incentives, conferencing

Among the statistics published by the Society, the top three destinations which attracted maximum number of tourists are Kochi, Munnar and Thekkady accounting to almost 60%. According to 2015 statistics the state’s year-on-year revenue from tourism was Rs 2,6,689.63 crore, up 7.25% from the previous year. Meanwhile, foreign exchange earnings for the year increased 8.61% to Rs 6,949.88 crore. The Society also took the opportunity to take the high visa charges in the state to government’s consideration and reduce it which could significantly increase more tourist outflow into the state.

Inauguration Earlier KTM 16 was inaugurated by Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on September 27 at a function held at Le Meridien Convention Centre, Kochi. At the inaugural function the CM promised that the government will take measures to ensure minimal disruption to tourism activities during hartals to a request from Abraham George for tourism friendly policies. The CM also described the government 8

ASIAN TRAVELLER | October 2016

Wildlife

Wildlife wonders

in the U.K.

When one hears the world wildlife the image that generally comes to most minds is of Africa, but little they do know about the distinct species in other countries especially in Britain Island (sometimes spelt Skoma) off the Pembrokeshire Coast, Puffin Island (Ynys Seiriol) off Anglesey in North Wales and Staffa Island, which can be accessed from the coast of mull or Iona in the western Isles of Scotland. The curious appearance of the bird, with its colourful huge beak and its striking piebald plumage, has given rise to nicknames such as ‘clown of the ocean’ and ‘sea parrot’.

Dolphins

he British Isles with its mild and damp climate has allowed a variety of different species of birds and animals to settle and evolve here that may have struggled to live elsewhere in the globe. Britain is an island surrounded by seas and oceans which usually keep our summers warm and wet and our winters generally mild. Animals which settled on the British Isles found that they could rely on food supplies being available practically all year round because of the consistent lack of extreme weather. However, when extreme weather occurs, it can cause serious problems because the ecosystem is not designed to deal with it. In recent times and because of climate change, Britain experiences wide extremes which are sadly changing the nature of the islands’

wildlife. Here we will take a look at some of Britain’s amazing wildlife.

There are five species of true dolphin sighted in British waters. These are the Bottle-nosed Dolphin, Common Dolphin, Striped

found to the south and west of Britain and Ireland. The White-beaked Dolphin and the Atlantic White-sided Dolphin are very similar looking species. The Whitebeaked Dolphin may be observed off the west coast of Ireland and round to the northern North Sea. The Atlantic White-sided Dolphin is limited to the north of Scotland and the northern North Sea. Although the main body colour is dark grey with a white underside, Common Dolphins have distinctive yellow markings which run along each side of the body, from just above the beak to level with the dorsal fin. Many species of dolphin

Atlantic Puffin The Atlantic Puffin is one of four types of puffin and is a striking, pelagic sea bird. It is recognised by its brightly coloured rounded beak and its similar appearance to a penguin. Also known as the ‘Common Puffin’, it is the only puffin species which is found in the Atlantic Ocean. Very few people will have seen them in the wild. The reason for this lack of visibility is due to the fact that there are very few places in the UK where you can see puffins from the mainland due to their vulnerability from ground based mammals, especially rats. Some easy points of access include Skomer

Dolphin, Atlantic Whitesided Dolphin, and Whitebeaked Dolphin. The Bottle-nosed Dolphin is the species most frequently seen, often in groups as it is a very sociable species. The Common Dolphin is widely distributed along the west coast and in the North Sea, and the much rarer Striped Dolphin is

have been observed riding the bow wave of boats, but none more so than the Common Dolphin.

Basking sharks The Basking Shark is one of the few species that has emerged from being an important commercially targeted fish, to becoming a charismatic wildlife ASIAN TRAVELLER | October 2016

ambassador. Once heavily targeted for their liver oil, meat and fins, the last UK fishing operation ceased only in the mid-1990s and in 1998 this species received protection under the Wildlife and Countryside Act (1981). Now protected in all four Devolved Administrations, this species cannot be targeted, retained or disturbed in British waters. Every year, holidaymakers flock to the coastline in the hope of seeing these enigmatic sharks for themselves. Reaching lengths of up to 12m, Basking Sharks are the largest fish in British waters and the second largest in the world after the Whale Shark . One of only three

plankton-feeding shark species, these gentle giants re-appear in the coastal waters each spring and summer. They are found off the coast of Penzance also around the Isle of Man.

Dogs.

Badger Badgers are the largest members of the Mustelid family and are Britains largest land carnivores. Badgers are rarely seen and those who catch a glimpse are very fortunate. Badgers are nocturnal, underground dwellers that are quite common on the British Isles. There are approximately 300,000 badgers in the United Kingdom. This may seem like a large number, however, an estimated 47,500 are killed in road accidents every year. The badger is an endangered species in many parts of the UK.

islands). Weasels also inhabit North Africa, Asia and North America, and were introduced to New Zealand. Weasels are widespread and common throughout England, Scotland and Wales but absent from Ireland, the Isle of Man and most smaller islands. Like the stoat, it is still persecuted by gamekeepers. Weasels look very similar to Stoats, the only noticeable difference being, that unlike stoats, weasels do not have a black tip to the tail.

Whales It’s always a surprise to see killer whales in the UK, but they are around the most northern shores. However, sightings are rare and you’ll have to be persistent so you might be more lucky with minke whales. They are surprisingly common in the northern parts of Scotland. Head off to the shores of the Scottish Highlands for the best chances.

The Red fox is the most widely distributed and populous canid in the world, having colonised large parts of Europe, America, Asia and Africa. In the British Isles, where there are no longer any other native wild canids, it is referred to simply as ‘the fox’. A male fox is called a ‘Dog’, a female fox is called a ‘Vixen.’

The Manx Shearwater The Manx Shearwater is a member of the shearwater family that has over twenty different species of birds amongst it. It is the most commonly sighted of the Shearwaters around Britain’s coasts. It is most often seen skimming along the waves in the wake of a boat or soaring below cliffs on an evening before coming in to land in the darkness to take food to their solitary young.

Red deer

Weasel The Weasel is the smallest member of the Mustelid family and Britains smallest carnivore. Common weasels are found in central and western Europe and the Mediterranean region (but not the Mediterranean

October 2016 | ASIAN TRAVELLER

Red Fox

The Red Fox is a member of the Canidae family and is a part of the order Carnivora within the class of mammals. Members of the family are called ‘canids’ and include dogs, wolves, foxes, coyotes, dingoes, jackals and African Wild

The red deer is the largest land-mammal in the UK. The summer coat is reddish brown to brown and the winter coat is brown to grey. There are no spots on the adult coat. Stags have large, highly branched antlers and the number of branches increases with age. Antlers can have up to 16 points in wild animals. The angle between the brow tine and the main beam is near to 90 degree. This is important in distinguishing red deer from the related sika. Deer on the open hill in Scotland are smaller than those in lowland English woodland. 11

Luxury Trains

Luxury Travel on

Trains One might not probably associate luxury with train travel – especially in India. But that is not true, as IRCTC runs five luxury and super luxury cruise trains that are aimed at rich travellers

ecently, Railway Minister Suresh Prabhu flagged off the Tiger Express, a semi-luxury train operated by the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation Ltd (IRCTC), which will take tourists into the heart of the world famous Bandhavgarh and Kanha National Parks in Madhya Pradesh, and the Dhuandhar Waterfall in Bhedaghat near Jabalpur. This Tiger Express will be the first semi luxury train to be equipped with a dining car, bathrooms with showers, and a small library. While luxury might not a word that one would associate with most train journeys in India, the IRCTC runs five luxury and super luxury cruise trains that are aimed at rich travellers – mainly international visitors, with

deep pockets. These luxury trains can charge upwards of Rs 3 lakhs for a trip. Here we take a look at these luxury trains.

Maharaja’s Express This super luxurious train run by the IRCTC received the ‘World’s Leading Luxury Train’ award at the World Travel Awards, for four consecutive years from 2012 to 2014. Maharaja’s Express is considered to be one of the most expensive luxury trains in Asia, running on five circuits and covering more than 12 destinations in Rajasthan, and parts of North-west and Central India. The luxury train comprises 23 carriages which includes accommodation, dining, bar, lounge, generator and store cars. When it was first

launched in March 2010, the IRCTC had signed a joint venture with Cox and Kings to set up a company called Royale Indian Rail Tours to look after the management and functioning of the train. This joint venture was cancelled in August 2011, and now the train is run exclusively by IRCTC. The Maharaja’s Express is the only Indian luxury train to see an increase in occupancy, from 42% in 2011-2012 to 57% in 20142015. It is equipped with world class facilities including large dining, bar, lounge, generator, LCD TVs, direct dial phone, internet, individual temperature controls and in suite bathroom as well. The train also has a lounge called the Rajah Club with a private bar, two dining cars and a dedicated bar car.

Palace on Wheels

The first, and among the most luxurious of all the tourist trains, is the Palace on Wheels run by Rajasthan Tourism Development Corporation, along with the IRCTC, which was launched in 1982 in a bid to boost tourism in the state. Originally meant to be the personal railway coaches of the former rulers of Rajputana, Gujarat, the Nizam of Hyderabad and the Viceroy of British India, the train exudes royalty from its decor to the services it offers. The 14 coaches of the train are named after former Rajput states, and each saloon has a mini pantry and a lounge. The train also has two restaurants and a bar. The Palace on Wheels (PoW) travels to Jaipur, Sawai Madhopur,

ASIAN TRAVELLER | October 2016

Luxury Trains

Chittorgarh, Udaipur, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Bharatpur, Agra and back to Delhi. While the train has enjoyed considerable success, on 30 March, 2016, for the first time since its launch, there were no bookings, and the train had to be cancelled. It has gone back on track, though.

saloons, two dining cars, a souvenir coach and a royal spa. The train however has not seen much success, and, while the number of trips was reduced from 23 each year in 2010-11 to 19 in 201415, the occupancy levels have also come down from 45% to 41%.

Based on the Palace on Wheels and launched in 2009, the Royal Rajasthan on Wheels takes passengers on a 7-day journey through Jodhpur, Udaipur, Chittorgarh, Ranthambore National Park, Jaipur, Khajuraho, Varanasi, Sarnath and Agra, ending its journey in New Delhi. This luxury train has 14 cabins, categorised into deluxe and super deluxe

famous stone chariot in the Vittala Temple of Hampi, the Golden Chariot is a luxury tourist train which covers the southern states of Karnataka, Goa, Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Puducherry. The Golden Chariot is run by the Karnataka State Tourism Development Corporation, while the Maple Group handles the hospitality services on board the train.

The Golden Royal Rajasthan on Chariot: Wheels Named after the

Started in March 2008, the Golden Chariot consists of 44 cabins and 11 coaches, which are named after the erstwhile dynasties that ruled the region. The train is also equipped with two restaurants, a lounge bar, and conference, gym and spa facilities. The Golden Chariot has also gone the way of the other luxury trains, in terms of occupancy, and the number of trips has been reduced from 19 in 2010-11 to 11 in 2014-15. One of the best way to experience the major and offbeat tourism destinations of South India, it was awarded the ‘Asia’s leading luxury train’ award at the World Travel Awards in 2013. Even though expensive, it offers special fares for Indian travellers.

Deccan Odyssey: The Deccan Odyssey is a special luxury train launched on the model of Palace on Wheels to boost tourism on the Maharashtra route of the Indian Railways. The route starts in Mumbai and travels to Ratnagiri, Sindhudurg, Goa, Kolhapur, Belgavi, Solapur, Nanded, Aurangabad, Ajanta-Ellora Nasik, Pune and then back to Mumbai. It is a venture between Maharashtra Government and the Ministry of Railways, Government of India. Apart from being a train that touches tourist spots, this aims to be a complete 5-star hotel on wheels, with 13 airconditioned deluxe saloons, two restaurants and a bar, a sauna, business center and other such amenities on board inspired by the imperial carriages used by the Maharajas. In 2004, the Maharashtra government stopped its run of the Deccan Odyssey, citing poor response, but recommenced it after the monsoon season. From December 2010, The Deccan Odyssey train, taken on charter from Government of Maharashtra started sightseeing tour of the five Sikh takhts. The duration of the tour is 7 nights, starting every Wednesday from Mumbai.

ASIAN TRAVELLER | October 2016

Mughal architecture

Mughal magic in Agra The architectural splendour of Agra with its significant monuments draws tourists from around the world. Here we look at some of the distinct offerings of Agra which has made it a must-visit in every traveller’s itinerary

The Taj Mahal

aj Mahal, which is the pinnacle of Mughal architecture, was built by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan, in the memory of his queen Arjumand Bano Begum, also known as ‘Mumtaz Mahal.’ The structure now houses the burial of both Mumtaz Mahal and Shah Jahan. The Taj Mahal meaning ‘the Crown of Palaces’, is an ivory-white marble mausoleum on the south bank of the Yamuna river in the Indian city of Agra. It was commissioned in 1632 by the Mughal emperor, Shah Jahan to house the tomb of his favourite wife, Mumtaz Mahal. The tomb is the centerpiece of the 42acre complex, which has a mosque and a guest house, and is set in formal gardens bounded on three sides by a crenellated wall. The Taj Mahal was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983 for being “the jewel of Muslim art in India

and one of the universally admired masterpieces of the world’s heritage.” Described by the Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore as “the tear-drop on the cheek of time,” it is regarded by the experts as the best example of the Mughal architecture and a true symbol of India’s rich history. The monument attracts around 7–8 million visitors a year. In 2007, it was declared a winner of the New 7 Wonders of the World (2000–2007) initiative.

Agra Fort One can easily ignore the presence of Agra Fort because of the overwhelming presence of the Taj Mahal. It is one of the finest forts in India, and housed several generations of Mughals – who ruled the country from within it. It once contained the

transformed it into a palace. It became his gilded prison for eight years after his son Aurangzeb seized power in 1658.

largest treasury and mint, and hosted several foreign ambassadors, travellers and dignitaries who were part of the medieval history of India. No other fort in India has this honour. Located on the banks of the Yamuna River, the construction of this massive red-sandstone fort was begun by Emperor Akbar in 1565. Further additions were made, mainly by his grandson Shah Jahan, using his favourite building material – the white marble. The fort was made primarily as a military structure, but Shah Jahan later

It is one of the most important and robustly built stronghold of the Mughals, embellished with number of richly decorated buildings encompassing the imposing Mughal style of art and architecture. When Sikandar Lodi became the Sultan of Delhi, he shifted his capital from Delhi to Agra and during his period several palaces, wells and a mosque were built inside the fort.

ASIAN TRAVELLER | October 2016

It is also believed that the fort was the storehouse of world famous ‘Koh-inoor’ diamond which was later looted from the fort. The fort, semi-circular on plan, is surrounded by a 21.4 m high fortification wall. Double ramparts have been provided with broad massive circular bastions at regular intervals. There are four gates on its four sides, one of the gates was called “khizri-gate” (the water gate) which opens to the river front, where ghats (quays) were provided. The fort has survived through the onslaught of time, nature and men. The fort spreads over an area of about 94 acres of land. At present, there exist more than two dozens of monuments in the Fort.

Fatehpur Sikri Fatehpur Sikri is a city in the Agra district of Uttar Pradesh, India. Previously the city’s name was Vijaypur Sikri, of the Sikarwar Rajput clan; the later city was founded in 1569 by the Emperor Akbar, and served as the capital of the Mughal Empire from 1571 to 1585. After his military victories over Chittor and Ranthambore, Akbar decided to shift his capital from Agra to a new location on the Sikri ridge, to honour the Sufi saint Salim Chishti. There he started construction of a planned walled city, which took the next fifteen years in planning, and construction of a series of royal palaces, harem, courts, a mosque, private quarters and other utility buildings. He named the city Fatehabad, with ‘Fateh’, a word of Arabic origin in Persian, meaning ‘victorious.’ The name was later changed to Fatehpur Sikri. It is at Fatehpur Sikri that the legends of Akbar and his famed courtiers, the nine jewels or Navaratnas, were born. Fatehpur Sikri is one of the best preserved collections of Indian

Mughal architecture in India. Fatehpur Sikri sits on a rocky ridge. The buildings show a synthesis of various regional schools of architectural craftsmanship such as Gujarat and Bengal. This was because indigenous craftsmen were used for the construction of the buildings. Influences from the Hindu and Jain architecture are also seen along with Islamic elements. The materials used in all the buildings at Fatehpur Sikri – the palacecity complex, are the locally quarried red sandstone, known as ‘Sikri sandstone’. It is accessed through gates along the long fort wall, namely, Delhi Gate, the Lal Gate, the Agra Gate, Birbal’s Gate, Chandanpal Gate, The Gwalior Gate, the Tehra Gate, the Chor Gate and the Ajmeri Gate. Some of the main buildings in the complex include Buland Darwaza, Jama Masjid, Tomb of Salim Chishti, Diwan-i-Aam, Panch Mahal, etc.

Akbar’s Tomb The tomb of Akbar the Great, located in Sikandra, in the suburbs of Agra is an important Mughal architectural masterpiece, which was built between 1605-1613. Akbar himself commenced the construction of this tomb, according to Tartary tradition, which stated to commence the construction of one’s tomb during one’s lifetime. The South gate of this tomb is the largest with four white marble chhatritopped minarets, similar to those of the Taj Mahal. The buildings are constructed mainly from deep red sandstone. An inscription on the mausoleum reads: ‘These are the Gardens of Eden: enter them to dwell eternally.’ This historical monument’s beauty cannot be justified in words and one has to visit this place to actually witness it.

October 2016 | ASIAN TRAVELLER

The south gate is the normal point of entry to the tomb. The tomb itself is surrounded by a walled enclosure. The tomb structure is a four-tiered pyramid, surmounted by a marble pavilion containing the false tomb. The true tomb, as in other mausoleums, is in the basement. The buildings are constructed mainly from deep red sandstone, enriched with features in white marble. Decorated inlaid panels of these materials and a black slate adorn the tomb and the main gatehouse. Panel designs are geometric, floral and calligraphic. The Tomb has overcome several attacks. During the reign of Akbar’s grandson, Aurangzeb, the tomb was attacked by Jats. They plundered and looted the tomb which had expensive gold, jewels, silver and finest carpets used for the decoration. Jats even dragged Akbar’s bones out of the tomb and burned them. Later during the rule of British, they carried extensive repair on the tomb considering its aesthetical value.

Tomb of Itimad-udDaulah Tomb of Itimadud-Daulah is a Mughal mausoleum in Agra. It is also called as – a jewel box, Baby Taj, and even a draft of the Taj Mahal. This tomb was commissioned by Jahangir’s wife Nur Jahan,

for her father Mirza Ghiyas Beg, who had been given the title Itimad-ud-Daulah (pillar of the state). This tomb was built around 1622-1628. The mausoleum is set in a large cruciform garden, criss-crossed by water courses and walkways. The walls are white marble from Rajasthan, which are encrusted with semiprecious stone decorations like cornelian, jasper, lapis lazuli, onyx, and topaz. The intricate work on the marble is certainly noteworthy! What is important about this tomb is that it is the first one to be built in white marble. It marks the departure from the red sandstone which is traditionally used in the Mughal architecture. Conforming to the Islamic style of architecture, it displays a fusion of Persian and Indian influence. While the use of arched entrances and octagonal shaped towers signify the Persian influence, the absence of a dome and the presence of a closed kiosk on top of this building and the use of canopies talks about the possible Indian influence. The cenotaphs of the ground floor contain inscription in Persian. The wall inscriptions are from Quran and other holy texts. Also, the tomb in a bird’s eye view looks like a jewel box set in a garden. This tranquil, small, garden located on the banks of Yamuna was to inspire the construction of the Taj Mahal in the later years. 17

Art Exhibitions

Temporary Art Exhibitions at famous Spanish Museums

pain is known for its art and culture. It houses several important art galleries like The Prado Museum and ThyssenBornemisza Museum in Madrid, Carmen Thyssen Museum in Malaga, Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao, Picasso Museum in Barcelona and IVAM (Institut Valencià d´Art Modern) – Valencia Institute of Modern Art in Valencia. This time around, we share with you some of the temporary exhibitions in the coming months that you could visit when you are in Spain:

When: From 25th October 2016 to 19th February 2017 Where: Prado Museum in Madrid What is it called: El arte de Clara Peeters (The Art of Clara Peeters) The Flemish painter Clara Peeters (Antwerp, Belgium, 1594-1657) specialising in still life and one of the few women active artists in Europe during the first half of the seventeenth century is the subject of an exhibition in which you can enjoy a selection of her best works. After passing through the Museum Rockoxhuis Antwerp, this exhibition has arrived to Madrid and is organised by the Royal Museum of Fine Arts Antwerp which is owned by Prado for four works. For the first time, a show starring exclusively by a woman in the Madrid art gallery is being organised. Through it, the achievements of this delicate artist, whose

works often show scenes of breakfast and floral in which precious objects of metal or ceramic accumulate apparently untidy with flowers, fruits and pieces of fishing or hunting creating a set multicoloured are quite a highlight. Both the exhibition and the materials that will accompany it will also put the spotlight on the situation of women artists in early modern Europe.

When: From 18th October 2016 to 22nd January 2017 Where: Thyssen-Bornemisza in Madrid What is it called: Art Exhibition: Renoir and Intimacy Madrid’s ThyssenBornemisza Museum presents an enthralling retrospective on the French artist and his ability to depict intimacy in its various forms (social, among friends, family or sexual). More than 70 works from museums and collections all over the world draw us into the world of textures and suggestions Renoir used to express intimacy

domes, the brightness of gold - white or yellow reminiscent of the splendor of Baroque art scrolls or geometric designs that reflect the pure lines of the ruins are some of the details that reveal the tribute Bulgari to the Eternal City.

in his paintings. In his impressionist paintings, Renoir strongly evokes tactile sensations in volumes, materials and textures. We find this at every stage of his development and in a wide variety of genres: group scenes, portraits, still life, landscapes, and nudes.

When: From 30th November 2016 to 26th February 2017 Where: Thyssen-Bornemisza in Madrid What is it called: Art Exhibition: Bvlgari And Roma In autumn 2016, Bvlgari and Rome will show how architecture and art of ancient and modern Rome have inspired designers of the Maison Bulgari over the past decades. The exhibition will include a selection of pieces from the Heritage Collection Bulgari which will appreciate the subtle relationships between jewelry and paintings, engravings and Roman monuments that inspired them. The pieces with cabochons to recreate the

When: From 16th September 2015 to 8th January 2017 Where: Carmen Thyssen Museum in Malaga What is it called: Art Exhibition: Sorolla. Notes from New York In 1911, Joaquin Sorolla took a second trip to the United States to monitor two exhibitions of his works in Chicago and St. Louis. On that date, the artist was at a high point of his career, and became one of the most internationally renowned painters of the time and enjoyed a broad customer base in the US market. In the course of that stay, he spent a month in New York from 22nd April to 24th May. He was fascinated by the big city and conducted a series of gouaches, tilted up views, light and fast prints taken from the window of his

ASIAN TRAVELLER | October 2016

room at the Savoy hotel in Manhattan. Painted on cartons used for folding shirts or other garments are unique pieces of work - little known works of great technical quality and modernity in his photographic frames. The exhibition of Carmen Thyssen Museum Malaga will show 9 of his works taken from the Sorolla Museum in Madrid to bring to the visitors a set of exceptional and outstanding pieces of artwork of one of the leading artists from its permanent collection.

When: From 30th September 2016 to 8th January 2017 Where: Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao What is it called: Art Exhibition: Francis Bacon. De Picasso a Velázquez. (From Picasso to Velazquez) Francis Bacon: Picasso to Velazquez shows a selection of ninety paintings that are among the most important and attractive of this British artist born in Ireland, including many

works that have hardly been seen in public beforehand, together with the work of other classical masters that influenced his career. The exhibition aims to deepen the impression that the French and Spanish cultures left in Bacon’s work, ardent Francophile and great connoisseur of art of great Spanish masters such as Velázquez. Bacon began his career as a painter after visiting the exhibition Cent Picasso dessins par Paul Rosenberg gallery in Paris. Keenly interested in French literature, he was an avid reader of Racine, Balzac, Baudelaire and Proust; and an enthusiast of art creators established in France, such as Manet, Degas, Gauguin, Van Gogh, Seurat, Matisse and Picasso, and earlier, as Ingres, Gericault and Daumier. Beyond his first encounters with Parisian Picasso’s work in the twenties and thirties, his relationship with the Spanish culture is mainly manifested in his obsession with Portrait of Pope

Innocent X by Velazquez made in 1650. Despite having had the opportunity to see this work directly in the Doria Pamphilj Gallery during a trip he made to Rome in 1954, Bacon preferred to present in his memory reproductions of the painting and not the original by creating more than fifty works that he devoted to this subject. In addition to Velázquez, Bacon was fascinated by other classical masters such as Zurbarán, El Greco and Goya whose work he admired at the Prado Museum in Madrid.

When: From 16th March 2017 to 25th June 2017 Where: Picasso Museum in Barcelona What is it called: Art Exhibition: Picasso. Retratos. (Portraits) The National Portrait Gallery in London and the Picasso Museum in Barcelona are organising a major exhibition exploring the place of caricature in Picasso’s portraiture, a subject that has not

previously been explored in detail. The exhibition will contain paintings, sculptures, drawings and prints from all periods of the artist’s long career. It is being curated by Elizabeth Cowling, Professor Emeritus of History of Art at Edinburgh University, and an independent scholar and exhibition curator.

When: From 8th September 2016 to 17th September 2017 Where: IVAM (Institut Valencià d´Art Modern) – Valencia Institute of Modern Art in Valencia What is it called: IVAM: Ignacio Pinazo and the vanguards – Elective Affinities To mark the centenary of the death of Ignacio Pinazo Carmarlench (1849-1916), IVAM has scheduled one of the most special exhibitions around his figure as a fitting tribute to one of its most brilliant artists. If Pinazo did not enjoy more projection, it was not by the institution of his work which everyone recognised in his time, but by his isolation from the official centers to convert Valencia into the axis of its creation. Pinazo’s work is widely represented in the collection of IVAM since its founding, and is, in fact, one of the pillars of his collection. Despite the significance of the artist and the series of his works, his presence has not been included and shared in the permanent collection of a museum of contemporary art with Julio Gonzalez or other representatives of the international forefront.

Ignacio Pinazo - Rincón con labradora, 1885 © IVAM (Institut Valencià d´Art Modern)

October 2016 | ASIAN TRAVELLER

This exhibition reveals Pinazo´s potential and intuition, its capacity for abstraction and creative impulse, expressive value of the body language and the importance of element matter in many of his works, whose fragments and details appear premonitions of action painting. 19

Travelogue

When Mountain Calls to Tushita This article is an array of true inspirational incidents occurred in my life. I was planning for a vacation in Manali from Doha as an expatriate and finally ended up in Dharamsala. I never thought that spiritual meditation and yoga will be playing an important part in my fun loving life until I became a student of Tushita Buddhism and Himalayan Iyyengar Yoga center in Dharmkot Arun V S Asian Traveller, Doha Correspondent

rom Doha I booked a ticket from Delhi – Manali worth Rs.1300 even though the distance was less to Pathankot compared to Manali. I bought the ticket and paid the guy Rs.200 and waited for the bus. After some time they told me that the pickup point was somewhere else and they will arrange a rickshaw fellow to take me to the Volvo bus. The Rickshaw fellow was a thin old guy apparently drunk and even caught on a brawl with another rickshaw driver after he accidentally hit their rickshaw. I begged them to leave the old fellow or I could have missed the bus. It was almost 10:35 pm when we reached Lal Qilla Bus point. By then I was literally tired, sweaty and sleepy. When I saw the bus I was really shocked as it wasn’t Volvo and instead an old Leyland bus, but AC. Inside the bus, the agents were fighting for their passenger seats. I had a very bad time inside the bus and finally paid another Rs.400

for the sleeper because there were no seats available. Finally I got a sleeper cell shared with another old person from Jammu & Kashmir who does Kashmiri Shawl business at Delhi. He was very friendly and I told him the whole story and then he revealed me that he paid Rs.700 from Delhi to Jammu for the sleeper. I wonder what will be the state of foreign travelers here. Next day morning I reached Pathankot and my friend Bhalla was waiting for me in the bus Station. I was very happy to meet him after 18 years and he took me to a hotel. He was recovering from a minor accident involved with the bike. I visited his family and he took me to his farm near the river. Later in the evening we travelled to Dalhousie and stayed in a small resort. Next day we went for sightseeing in and around and by evening we returned back to Pathankot. I stayed another day in Pathankot and asked Bhalla to take me to

Dharamshala as Pathankot was very hot and I need some fresh air and cool place to relax. He took me to McLeod Ganj another place above Dharamshala which is really beautiful and is home to Dalai Lama and the Tibetan government in exile. We stayed in Green Hotel and Bhalla has to go next day as he was busy with AAP Politics. I thought of doing Yoga and it didn’t materialise. I was bored in hotel and thought of going back to Aurangabad till I met Rajeev – a Punjabi who was running a restaurant in McLeod Ganj. We became very friendly and he introduced me to his partner Kanav. Both of them hail from Ludhiana, Punjab and are into restaurant business. We used to have drinking sessions in the evening and during one evening Rajeev told me about place called Dharmkot, Tushita and Vipassana Meditation Center above McLeod

Ganj. Rajeev has gone for meditation in Tushita and he remarked it was a really good learning program. Even so, he couldn’t complete the program and said that it was difficult to get inside Tushita and one has to book months earlier. I decided to make a try and went to Tushita in Dharmkot Village in the next day. Tushita is a beautiful place of learning Buddhism with a big serene campus in the top of the hill with lush green forest with Pine trees and plenty of monkeys. Tushita has got an office building, Main Gompa, another two meditation halls, big accommodation rooms and dormitories along with the mess hall and retreat centers for Tibetan monks. I could feel the positive vibe of the place. So, I went to the office and I was informed that it was fully booked. But they urged me to try online booking in Tushita website as they don’t take any direct booking in

ASIAN TRAVELLER | October 2016

the office. Disappointed, I went to nearby Vipassana Meditation Center on the neighborhood. I was further informed that office will be open only by 4 pm and so I went to the Dharmkot which is a popular destination for foreign travelers and backpackers coming from Manali, Leh and Kasol. Dharmkot is very beautiful Place and it’s a mini replica of Goa minus the beaches but its hills. There are many popular restaurants, shacks, eateries, lodges, hotels, homestays, yoga centers and also local crafts learning centers. I liked Dharmkot than McLeod Ganj as it is very peaceful compared to the busy streets of the later. I got a nice and moderate accommodation in guest house called Paul House so I thought of relocating to Dharamkot. After that I tried my luck in online registration. Usually things

didn’t materialise in the first or second attempt for me, I didn’t had any hope of getting in the meditation program. Next day I moved to Dharmkot from Mcleod Ganj and started staying in Paul House. By then it had been almost one week since I left Aurangabad and my family. Earlier I had feelings going back to Aurangabad but after coming to Dharmkot my thoughts were totally changed. I met many travelers in Dharmkot out of which my neighbours in Paul House were David Cohen and Ran who were really friendly to me. David is a successful entrepreneur with interests in real estate, restaurants etc. from Los Angeles and is travelling in India for the last six months. A veteran, David was 130 kgs when he landed in Delhi and he trimmed down 30 kgs during this span and has travelled almost entire India. David Met Ran in Manali and came to

Dharamkot and now spends time in trekking, reading, Yoga, meditation and bit of philosophy. Ran who is in around his thirties, was a different character. He wakes up by 4 pm in the evening and has breakfast around 6 pm and for him the day ends when we get up in the morning. He was a fun loving jovial person and wandering for something I didn’t till now understand. We had a beautiful small shack restaurant– Zula where we hang out almost all these days and the owner Sanjeev was very friendly. Zula was like our own home kitchen and we had a special designated hangout area where we used to spend our time eating, talking, playing chess, listening

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music and reading. We had many friends who used to visit us in Zula and the food was really tasty with moderate pricing and it was a stone’s throw away from Paul House. At least once in day, we met at Zula for a Meal or a Masala chai or Ginger lemon honey. David was so inspirational, peaceful & we have been discussing almost all the topics and finally I accepted him as my mentor. His words were Gem of wisdom and he presented me the book of Great Hafez, the famous Iranian Poet which thereafter is my favourite book.

Luxury cruise

Qatar cruise season begins

he world’s largest privately owned residential yacht, The World, docked in Doha Port earlier this month, marked the beginning of Qatar’s 2016/2017 cruise season. The luxury cruise ship was anchored at Doha Port for two days before heading to

Muscat. This cruise season, which lasts until April 2017, has 32 ships registered to arrive at Qatar’s shores, representing a three-fold increase on last season’s figures. Over 50,000 passengers are expected to arrive aboard these ships. The luxury cruise

ship’s passengers will be the first to avail of Qatar’s new entry procedure, which quickens the disembarkation of tourists arriving on board cruise ships. Cruise passengers can now disembark within minutes of arriving and immediately begin enjoying their on-shore

excursions. The World is home to 165 residences with patrons from 45 countries living on board the ship as it sails around the world, staying in most ports for several days. Some residents live on board full time while most visit periodically throughout the year.

ASIAN TRAVELLER | October 2016

NEWSLINE

Jordan to host the ANNE meeting for ATTA in 2017 Jordan Tourism Board (JTB) is delighted to announce that The Adventure Travel Trade Association (ATTA) will hold its regional Adventure NEXT Near East (ANNE) meeting in Jordan during the Spring of 2017. The announcement comes on the heels of the summit of The ATTA held in Anchorage, Alaska on September 19-22. The Minister of Tourism and Antiquities and chairman of JTB Board, Lina Annab, said “We are extremely happy and excited to see Jordan hosting this very important event”, she added “holding Adventure NEXT Near East in Jordan will showcase the

stunning and breathtaking adventure sites spread all over Jordan. It will also provide a platform for new ideas as well as development opportunities in the adventure field, making it an ideal meeting place for adventure tourism service providers from tour operators to accommodation suppliers and others.”

Jordan Tourism Board, expressed his enthusiasm towards hosting such an event in Jordan “Jordan Tourism Board North America (JTBNA) has spearheaded the efforts with ATTA to secure Jordan as the host for ANNE 2017, we are confident that we will be able to showcase an exhilarating adventure product”.

ANNE will be the first conference of its kind in a region where stories about travel and adventure date back thousands of years. Jordan has a diverse landscape and social fabric which blends antiquity and modernity. Dr. Abed Al Razzaq Arabiyat , Managing Director of the

ANNE promises to provide adventure tourism globally with a media connecting network for adventure writers, bloggers, photographers and editors who will be sharing the latest adventure trends, destinations and stories coming out of the region as well of the globe.

Adventure tourism is a burgeoning segment in the tourism sector all over the world and in Jordan. Various adventure milestones were achieved recently turning Jordan into a world class adventure hub. Projects such as the Jordan Trail that rivals major hiking trails in the world, as well as the development of canyon sites all meet the ever increasing demands of global adventure traveler. The timing of this conference coincides with the completion of the Jordan Trail, a 650 km trail that passes through 52 villages and which helps bring income and sustainability to these local communities along the way.

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TAMILNADU TRAVELLER

Yercaud- Jewel of the South This time around, Dr. S. Bakthavatchalam takes you to Yercaud, a lesser known hill station and other tourist attractions around it from various other hill fruits, there are pepper, cardamom, nutmegs and cloves plantations at Yercaud.

Dr. S. Bakthavatchalam Additional Director, Tamil Nadu Tourism

he mist clad coffee plantations, vast areas of orange groves and the cool climate welcomes you to Yercaud. Known as the ‘Jewel of the South’, Yercaud is located at an altitude of 5000 ft on the Shevaroys Hills of the Eastern Ghats. Belonging to Salem district in Northern Tamil Nadu, the word ‘Yercaud’ is believed to have derived from two words- Yeri and Kaadu which means lake and forest respectively in Tamil. In time, it turned out to

Yercaud. One of the main reasons which attract domestic tourists to Yercaud is that it isn’t as expensive as its sister hill stations like Ooty (Udhagamandalam) or Kodaikanal. History credits a British Collector to have established this place as a hill station for British civil servants and their families. Coffee plantations were introduced here way back in 1830. Today apart 24

Yercaud is characterised by pleasant weather all through the year and hence can be visited all year round. However the waterfalls takes its majestic form only during the monsoon. Travellers can go for a walk around the town and there are options for trekking. Yercaud has got plenty of viewpoints which promise great views of the lush vegetation. The good climate along with the dense green surroundings gives you the much needed relaxation for your soul. The highest recorded temperature during summer is 30 °C and the lowest 12 °C. The Jewel of the South is also blessed with rich flora

and fauna. The National Orchidarium and Botanical Garden at Yercaud, maintained by Botanical Survey of India spread in 18 hectares houses many endemic species of plants. A visit to the park is highly recommended while you visit Yercaud. Apparently the first attraction at Yercaud is the lake itself. The picturesque water body surrounded by gardens and lush forest also offers

facilities for boating. Pedal and relax in the cold water to get refreshed. Deer Park is an island park inside the lake with deer’s, peacocks and rabbits which is ideal for family relaxation. The Lady’s Seat is another attraction at Yercaud. Overlooking the serpentine ghat road, it provides a breath taking view of the plains below and Mettur Dam on the Cauvery river, through the telescope mounted at the Lady’s seat watch tower. The name is in reference to an English Lady who found out this place. Apart from the lady’s seat there is also a gent’s seat and children seat which provide great views of the surroundings.

Cave Temple. The cave temple has deities of God Shervaroyan and Goddess Kaveri inside. A narrow and dark cave inside is considered to touch Cauvery river at some distance by the devotees. The annual festival of Lord Shervaroyan celebrated in May every year attracts a lot of people to here. Killiyur Falls during the monsoons is also an ideal destination to be included in your list of destinations at Yercaud. The trekking paths to the valley make it a must visit for adventure seekers.

Pagoda Point also known as Pyramid Point was constructed by the tribal people to mark some event. The piles of stones in the pyramid form are close to the vantage point and promises great views. There is a Rama Temple which lies between these Pagodas. Travellers to Yercaud always make it a point to visit Shervaroyan ASIAN TRAVELLER | October 2016

Airline News

Travel anywhere in India with cheaper airfares includes a couple along with kids. So you probably won’t have to use so much effort to find what you need. Alpfly already has better airfare deals so you won’t have to spend time and fortune searching.”

Alpfly, an independent travel company announces its launch with its jaw dropping plans and offers for the avid flight travels. Alpfly brings six different lucrative plans and offerings. The company is brainchild of Mr. Zuheb Khan, Mr. Maneet Singh Chandok, Mr. Ravi Kant Gupta and Mr. Shehroz Zaman Khan. The founder’s vision is to be the leading travel solution provider in the travel industry, providing effective and efficient travel services to

the people across India. “At one point of time, when there is a need of cheap air tickets in India we have all experienced the tiresome process of searching. With the numerous search engines available and ever fluctuating prices, the process of manually searching for the best airfare deal is somewhat confusing,” says Zuheb Khan, Founder, Alpfly. He further added, “We at Alpfly believe in striving

to create exceptional experience for the travellers. Today with the launch of Alpfly, the company offers jaw dropping plans. Alpfly’s cheapest plan is the Star Plan, where one person gets 10 air tickets for a period of 12 months against a payment of INR 21,999. The cost works out to INR 2199 per ticket. The Couple Plan offers tickets at INR 29,999 and offers you the opportunity to travel alone or both of you together. Going on, the family plan is for INR 39,999 which

Alpfly is a travel company providing great flight deals to the customers believes in transparency. Hence, there are no hidden charges involved, the prices as mentioned are inclusive of all the taxes and charges. Except than the Star Privilege Plan all the plans have a clause of booking tickets 21 days prior to travel. Also, Alpfly does not allow to book tickets for Gazetted Holidays/ Festive Dates. However, tickets can be issued 2 days prior and 2 days after to any gazetted Holidays/Festive Dates. Alpfly services PAN India except Lakshadweep, Leh, Surat, Kullu, Bhopal, Jodhpur, Andaman & Nicobar and Aurangabad.

Ethiopian Airlines wins “The Rising Star Carrier of the Year Award” Ethiopian Airlines, the fastest growing and the largest Cargo operator in Africa has won the Rising Star Carrier of the Year Award, for the second year in a row, at the 5th Payload Asia Awards 2016 held in Hong Kong last month. Payload Asia 2016 honors the very best in the Air Cargo Industry; confronting and overcoming the manifold challenges in the air cargo sector by creating innovative products and services and delivering real value to customers. Ethiopian has pulled off

a repeat performance by winning the Industry Choice Awards, where 90 nominees competed with over 31, 500 online votes cast in 20 award categories. “We are proud that Payload Asia has once again recognised our cargo services. Ethiopian Cargo is one of the seven strategic business units of the Ethiopian Group, established to progress as an independent profit center as per our fifteen years growth map, Vision 2025. To pursue our position of being the largest Cargo

October 2016 | ASIAN TRAVELLER

service provider in Africa, we have been investing millions of dollars on our Cargo Services; deploying the best freighter fleet in the world, the B777-200 LR freighters; expanding our cargo destinations across the globe; building one of the largest cargo terminals in the world with 1.2 million annual capacity; and automating our entire cargo business process with one of the best Cargo IT systems (SITA Champ Cargo Spot) with the aim of providing one of the most efficient air cargo services within, to and from Africa,” remarked

Tewolde Gebre Mariam, CEO, Ethiopian Group. Ethiopian Cargo currently operates to 35 destinations in Africa, the Middle East, Asia and Europe using six B777 and two B757 freighters. The Airline also carries freight in the belly of wide body passenger aircraft, B777/ B787, to 94 destinations across the Globe. Some of the major cargo destinations are: Belgium (Brussels & Liege), Hong Kong, Shanghai, Bombay, New Delhi, Dubai, South Africa, Lome and Lagos.

NEWSLINE

Atlantis,The Palm take home four trophies at the World Travel Awards 2016 Continuing its recent winning streak, Atlantis, The Palm were proud to take home four trophies at the World Travel Awards (WTA) 2016 held last month at St. Regis hotel. The group won four awards namely the ‘Middle East’s Leading Resort’, the ‘United Arab Emirates’ Leading Resort’, ‘Dubai’s Leading Resort’ and the ‘Middle East’s Leading Waterpark’. Reinforcing Atlantis, The Palm’s status as a mustvisit destination in the region, WTA recognise and celebrate individual and collective successes within each key geographical region. Winners from the event will go forward to complete in the WTA Grand Final, this year taking place on December 2nd.

“Being recognised as a winner in four categories is a great accomplishment”, said Serge Zaalof, President and Managing Director of Atlantis, The Palm. “To be voted Middle East’s Leading Resort for six consecutive years is powerful recognition and reflects the commitment of the Atlantis team in staying at the forefront of the hospitality industry”, he added. Atlantis, The Palm is the first entertainment resort destination in the region and located at the centre of the crescent of The Palm in Dubai. Opened in September 2008, the

unique ocean-themed resort features a variety of marine and entertainment attractions, as well as 17 hectares of waterscape amusement at Aquaventure Waterpark, all within a 46 hectare site. It is home to one of the largest openair marine habitats in the world, with over 65,000 marine animals in lagoons and displays including The Lost Chambers Aquarium, a maze of underwater

HOLIDAY

make memorable

corridors and passageways providing a journey through ancient Atlantis. Atlantis, The Palm is also known as the culinary destination in the region with a collection of world-renowned restaurants including Bread Street Kitchen & Bar, Nobu and Ronda Locatelli. The resort boasts an impressive collection of luxury boutiques and shops as well as extensive meeting and convention facilities.

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ASIAN TRAVELLER | October 2016

A. B. C. D. E. F. G. H.

Farm stay

Come, See and Cherish!

estled in the tranquil and composed Cumbum Valley of the awe-inspiring state of Tamil Nadu is the Harvest Fresh Farms. With the cloud clad mountains of the valley looking down at it, the organic farms of fruits like pomegranates, papaya, grapes and mango giving it life and around 150 herbs blooming in its gardens, the farms have kept alive the ages old aesthetic Indian belief of a simple and organic living. A stay in the farms will leave your mind, body and soul rejuvenated like never before.

Making the people and the nature healthy

Harvest Fresh Farms is a responsible initiative that believes in improving the health of both the people and the environment, by brilliantly combining the ethics of science and tradition. The farm has very precisely achieved the status of a certified organic farm and it constantly works to live up to the accomplishment. Everything about the farm is purely organic. The farm boosts of orchards laden with fruits like pomegranate, papaya, mango and grapes. The farm grows the produce that it uses in its kitchens, and the remnants waste from the kitchens goes into making bio gas to meet the energy demands of the farm. The manure used in the farms is produced from cow dung and urine, and the farm produces traditional manures like jeevamritham and panchagavya. The composting yards of the farm produces compost from garden waste, coir pith, and other organic wastes. This level of

responsibility and the efforts applied to maintain the organic standard of the farm has won it recognition and certification from INDOCERT, an internationally recognised certification body. The farm has also been accredited by National Accreditation Body of the Government of India. The farm is indeed the purest you can find in organic farming in India. The farm plays a significant role in the promotion of agritourism. By providing farm stays it makes people realise the importance of organic living, but also give them a memorable holiday.

Live Organic

The Harvest Fresh Farms offers farm stays with a vision to bring people closer to organic living. A stay at Harvest Fresh Farms will surely make for the most amazing of holidays, spent in the lap of the most serene manifestations and the wisdom of nature. Suites in the farm are simple but comfortable, lightly but beautifully furnished to maintain the organic aura of the farm. They offer facilities like air condition, 24 hours hot water supply, power back up, TV, housekeeping, living room, kitchenette, dining room, fridge, board games and a library shelf. Your stay is sure to

be a memorable one with the number of fun filled activities organised by the authorities of the farm just for you. Walk around the farm or ride in a bullock cart with a guide to help you know about the plants growing in the farm and the methods used to grow them. Roam around the fruit orchards, ride on a bicycle in and around the farm or learn about the art of making honey the apiary. Learn about the powers and wonders of herbal plants in the herbal garden of the farm. If you are an animal lover you will be rejoiced like never before, for the farm is home to beautiful cattle, rare species of poultry birds and adorable rabbits. Visit the animals in their mangers and feed them to make some furry friends. The farm has a watchtower which promises the most breathtaking view of the Cumbum valley. Trek to the end of the farm to the tower for unforgettable experience and put your DSLR to some nice use. And then have a picnic of the freshest produce of the farm when you get down from the tower, watching the clouds play with the mountains. Have a nutritious and nourishing meal set just for you at the end of the farm, with the mountains taking care of your privacy! And still the best- sit by the

streams in the farm and read a book from the farmâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s library! Harvest Fresh Farms is just a 15 minutes drive from Thekkady and is also ideal for a day trip. The hospitability of the farm takes care of everything in the farm and you will be welcomed with a freshly squeezed juice of a fruit produced in the farm. A bullock cart will take you around the farm with an English speaking guide to let you witness the wonderful world of organic farming. Tour around the fruit orchards, apiary, livestock rearing farm, herbal garden and the composting yard, and learn the secrets that make Harvest Fresh Farms so pure and wholesome. Climb up the watch tower for the most incredible view of the valley and then have a meal of the local cuisine prepared from the freshly picked supplies of the farm. You will cherish every moment you spend on the farm with your family, amidst the calm and peace of the valley. After you have gathered innumerable precious memory from your visit, a vehicle will drop you back to the Lower Camp. To know more about this wonderful little haven, visit www.harvestfresh.in

ASIAN TRAVELLER | October 2016

NEWSLINE

The equine fair “Al Fares Dubai 2016” kicks off at Meydan international knights is also the proof of the remarkable development of these sports in the UAE.

HH Sheikh Hasher Bin Juma Al Maktoum, Director General of the Dubai Department of Information has inaugurated Al Fares International Equine exhibition in Meydan in Dubai. The exhibition is one of the oldest fairs in Asia and Africa that is specialised

in the equine industry. It provides all the gears needed in equestrian sports such as food and medicine, in addition to securing materials to establish horse riding centres, and other related maintenance products and services. The event targeting the horse owners, trainers, equine industry experts, and senior

Speaking at the inauguration ceremony Sheikh Hasher said: “We are pleased to open Al Fares exhibition for the first time in Meydan in Dubai, which leverage it to a higher level and confer it greater credibility among the horse lovers and equestrian community. This is intended to raise the number of visitors from horse riders, coaches and specialists in equestrian sports within UAE and all over the world. This is an outstanding start of the show as it precedes the launch of horse racing events in Meydan. The latter contributes in raising the exhibition popularity, which allows riders and sportsmen participating in Dubai

racing to acquire required equipment.” He also remarked that the fair will remain as a leading platform to disseminate the horsemanship values, principles and ethics that constitute the pride of Arabs since ancient times. It has also a mission of increasing mainstream interest in equine sports among young men and women in the region, which would contribute positively to shaping their personalities and inculcating courage and spirit,” he further added. Mr Rasheed Mbayed, also highlighted the need to exploit the rank of the UAE in equestrian sports globally and the distinctive achievements of Emirati horse riders in major international horse racing events to further inspire people into this sports.

Northern Regional Office of the Ministry of Tourism organises a successful Swatch Bharat drive at New Delhi Railway Station Continuing its efforts of spreading the awareness of Cleanliness at tourist places, public places, offices etc., Northern Regional Office of the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India organised a Swatch Bharat campaign at New Delhi Railway Station earlier this month. The event drew huge response from across the section of society. Over 150 staff/ volunteers / students from Indiatourism Delhi office, Delhi Metro Corporation, Institute of Hotel Management Pusa (IHM) Campus, members from travel industry participated in this event. A Nukkad Natak (Street Play) spreading the awareness of the cleanliness at tourist & other public places was organised by the IHM 30

Students. Cleanliness drive was organised at Ajmeri Gate Side of the New Delhi Station & around New Delhi Metro Station. Regional Director Northern India, Sh. Arun Srivastava personally led this team of motivated volunteers in cleaning up the streets, parking lot and other areas of the Station campus. Spreading the awareness of Green India, over 200 saplings were also

distributed at the end of the program to various people. To spread the message of Go Green, saplings were also planted by the Regional Director in the station premises. While seeking support of one and all in this effort, Hon’ble Tourism Minister Dr. Mahesh Sharma said “the Clean India Mission was very close to Mahatma Gandhi and it is our duty to ensure that all tourist monuments & public places are kept clean. And message of cleanliness is spread

throughout the country and everyone should engage in cleaning up tourists places, work places, mohallas, villages, cities, & surroundings and fulfill dream of the Father of the Nation”. Congratulating Northern Region Office for this noble effort, Sh. Vinod Zutshi, Secretary Tourism, Government of India said, “Campaign Clean India is to sensitise all sections of society on the importance of cleanliness and hygiene in public places particularly monuments and tourist destinations.” Sh. Arun Srivastava, Regional Director Northern India, Ministry of Tourism thanked everyone for their valuable participation in the event.

ASIAN TRAVELLER | October 2016

Medical Tourism

Dubai to become top medical tourist destination After the successful launch of operations in Abu Dhabi in May last year and over 120 successful pregnancies in less than a year-IVI Fertility, a world leader in treating all kinds of infertility conditions opened a new fertility clinic in Dubai. “Medical tourism has been growing in the region over the past few years. We are pleased with the support provided by the government, and willing to promote Dubai as a top health tourism destination. In April, the Dubai Health Experience was launched, and as experts, we would like to be part of this movement and take the lead, especially in the fertility arena,” said Dr Human Fatemi, Medical Director IVI Fertility. Designed to provide health, travel, hospitality and visa services, “Dubai

Health Experience” portal is targeting more than 500,000 international medical tourists by 2020. In 2015, according to the Dubai Health Authority (DHA), Dubai received 630,831 health tourists, of which 298,359 were foreigners from abroad. From this baseline, the DHA expects the number of medical tourists to increase 13% annually for the next five years to 1,313,360 by 2021. Of these, 621,169 will come from abroad. Dubai has been attracting people from all over the world who seek overseas healthcare which they cannot afford in their homeland, or are not assured of quality. IVI Dubai Clinic will offer specialised consultations by expert doctors, including Dr. Human Fatemi, Medical

Director, Dr. Barbara, Specialist – Obstetrics & Gynecology and Dr Laura, Specialist – Obstetrics & Gynecology. The clinic offers infertility related diagnostic services like ultrasound, blood tests, medication

& monitoring, and the exclusive ‘Carrier Genetic Test’- a revolutionary blood test that eliminates any possibility of genetically transmitted diseases. The latter also helps couples make gender selection and achieve a perfect balance in their families. “The carrier Genetic

Test helps us choose the healthiest embryo. This results in a healthy pregnancy and a healthy baby. It is highly recommended to all couples irrespective of a regular or an IVF pregnancy,” added Dr. Laura Melado Vidales,

Specialist – Obstetrics & Gynecology. IVI Middle East Fertility Clinic is a part of the IVI group, Spain with 50 clinics worldwide and renowned for offering the most sophisticated infertility treatments worldwide and now in UAE and the region.

NEWSLINE

Oman Tourism conducts multi-city roadshow in India Looking to boost tourist traffic from India, the Ministry of Tourism in association with Oman Air conducted multi-city roadshows in India last month. The road show commenced on September 19 at the Park Hyatt in Hyderabad. Later, it moved to The Oberoi in Kolkata on September 21; the Courtyard by Marriott in Ahmedabad on September 23 and JW Marriott in Pune on September 26. Oman’s National Centre for Statistics and Information (NCSI) revealed that Oman received 299,022 Indian nationals last year, reflecting a 17 per cent growth in 2015 from 2014. The data also

reflected a growth of 60 per cent in the number of Indians travelling to Oman in the last five years. The statistics also revealed that 1.5 million international visitors travelled into Oman between January and July 2016. Officials from the Ministry of Tourism - Oman along with representative partners from the tourism industry of Oman, including Al Bustan Palace – A Ritz Carlton Hotel, Arabian Experience, Al Nahda Resort & Spa, Alila

Jabal Akhdar, Elite Tours, Anantara Resorts, ShangriLa’s Barr Al Jissah Resort & Spa, Six Senses Zighy Bay, Magic Arabica, Bahwan Tours, Grand Hyatt, Omran Hotels & Resorts, Tour Oman, Zahara Tours and Oman Air were also present at the roadshow.

from Oman. The roadshow saw a stupendous response and was well attended by travel agents and tour operators in all the cities.

For the B2B session, Oman Tourism invited travel agents for prefixed meetings with the delegates

Oman is an ideal wedding destination for Indians as Muscat is close to India. As Oman is surrounded by mighty mountains, valleys, deserts and beaches, the Sultanate is an excellent short-haul destination from India.

The Leela Goa selected as the preferred venue to host 2016 Brics-Brimstec Joint Summit Taking international recognition to the next level, The Leela Goa, nestled between the Arabian Sea and River Sal, has been chosen to host the prestigious BRICS-BIMSTEC

joint summit on October 15 – 16, 2016, that will witness the convergence of 11 distinguished world leaders, including the summit host, Hon’ble Prime Minister Mr. Narendra Modi. The 75-acre exclusive

resort, will be hosting the joint summit at the Riverside lawns which overlook the tranquil River Sal and the lofty Betul mountains, and organising a one-of-a-kind beachside

state banquet hosted by the Indian Prime Minister. The resort is also poised to receive the heads-of-state of all seven BRIMSTEC countries as in-house guests during the two-day summit in Goa.

After hectic parleys at the joint summit, the world leaders, including His Excellency Vladimir Putin, President of Russia, His Excellency Xi Jin Ping, President of China, His Excellency Michel Temer, President of Brazil and His Excellency Jacob Zuma, President of South Africa, will converge for the state banquet in a luxury tent on the vast expanse of the stunning Leela beach. More than 250 dignitaries from around the globe will attend the seven-course curated dinner that will also feature eclectic cultural performances from renowned artists across India. “We have taken great care to ensure that every detail of the dignitaries visit and stay with us are attended to in a manner that reflects the best of traditional Indian hospitality. Our team of highly talented chefs have

been researching and curating the “perfect” seven course meal for several months for this important closing state banquet. Our effort is to showcase India’s rich culinary heritage to our international guests while having all ten national delegations appreciate our regional presentations without compromising on their individual taste preferences – a tall task for our team,” said Shridhar Nair, General Manager, The Leela Goa. For the state banquet, The Leela Goa’s team of talented chefs have thoroughly researched ten national cuisines before compiling a special panIndian menu that delicately marries varied tastes with the Indian selection. For example the Shahi Lobster being served for dinner is inspired by the famous dish - Lobster Thermidor and has a delicate blend of flavours derived from Indian herbs and spices.

ASIAN TRAVELLER | October 2016

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ASIAN TRAVELLER | October 2016