TRAV BUZZ NEWS OCT 2020

TRAVBUZZNEWS OCTOBER 2020

VOL 2 ISSUE 5

WWW.TRAVBUZZNEWS.COM

HML welcomes

Alluring Retreats

Kandima Maldives

Hong Kong Government’s announcement to launch Convention and Exhibition Industry Subsidy Scheme

Await You in JAMAICA

The ultimate global travel contest

Restart

Editors note

Welcome

to another power packed version of Trav Buzz News We are trying our best to cover positive news related to travel and tourism fraternity. Gradually destinations are opening, in case of India, Uttrakhand and Himachal have unleashed the restrictions for incoming travellers to the states. And this has in turn generated the positive vibes for travel industry. First weekend post opening, 60000 tourists were registered in Himachal. Rajasthan is already open for visitors. Uttrakhand is the latest entrant and shall act as a confidence building for tourists at large.

India has also recorded highest recovery from covid, hence bringing more confidence and building travel sentiments.

Speaking on international front, flights are still awaited to operate for general visitors.

As most of the outbound operators rely on the same business for their earnings.

As domestic market is more inclined towards online portal, offline players have not much to play a role. Thats as per few conversations with the industry leaders.

Positive sign is travel is on and with double the force. Slowly and gradually things shall be normal soon, this is all we can wish and pray.

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At Trav Buzz News, we have partnered with Travel O Manthan , a 3 day virtual event.

This issue shall carry excerpts from the same. Global leaders have marked their presence during Travel O Manthan Hope this issue is as per your expectations.

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Happy Reading and wishing you all a healthy and safe life

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Sachin Manocha

www.travbuzznews.com news@travbuzznews.com

CONTENTS

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32% of UK event professionals expect live events to return in Q4 2020 according to etc.venues’ UKickstart survey

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Seaside Finolhu Maldives Ready to Open Following Exciting Transformation Female visitors dominate attendance at EXPAT Travel Deal 2020

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Female visitors dominate attendance at EXPAT Travel Deal 2020

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Hamburg welcomes major global business events in renewable energy and medical sectors

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CMEE IIM Lucknow organized a Webinar on ‘Tourism in the Covid-19 Pandemic Era: Challenges and the Way Forward

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SOTC and Thomas Cook India announce the launch of a unique Customer Loyalty Program – Priority

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NEGATIVE GROWTH OF 68.2% FOR TOURIST ARRIVALS IN THE FIRST HALF OF 2020

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SA CELEBRATES WORLD TOURISM DAY WITH A COMMITMENT TO REIGNITE DOMESTIC TRAVEL MARKETS

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New boardroom for 24 delegates and a creative space designed like a Tube station are among many new developments at Wyboston Lakes Resort.

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HML welcomes Hong Kong Government’s announcement to launch Convention and Exhibition Industry Subsidy Scheme

Alluring Retreats AwaitYou in JAMAICA Kandima Maldives presents the ultimate global travel contest, ‘365 Days in Paradise’

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WE ARE LIVE

Check out www.travbuzznews.com news@travbuzznews.com

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32% of UK event professionals expect live events to return in Q4 2020 according to etc.venues’ UKickstart survey 32% of UK event professionals expect live events to return in Q4 2020 according to etc. venues’ UKickstart survey

continue into 2021 as 29% of respondents are likely to run live events in Q1 2021, while 30% expect Q2 and 9% stated Q3 and beyond.

Commenting on these The positive attitude results, Tracy Halliwell of the UK meetings MBE, Director of and events industry Tourism, Conventions towards returning to and Major Events at live events was shown London and Partners, by a survey during who took part in the recent UKickstart the Panel Session event instigated at UKickstart said: by etc.venues.

During the event, which was attended by 1,419 event professionals either in person or virtually, almost a third (32%) said that they are planning to run live events this year.

The poll also revealed that the recovery will travbuzznews

“It’s a great testament to the power of live events that there is such a strong will to get them

going again so quickly; and such a strong demand from our audiences to attend.”

The UKickstart audience, of which 305 attended in person at 12 venues across the UK, were also asked who they believed was the most confident about returning to live events. The results showed that 43% believe suppliers have the most confidence, followed by planners at 40%, corporates at 10% and delegates at 5%.

Simon Hughes, Chair of BVEP called for greater focus on “the corporate and client base, and delegates” saying part of the solution is “the ROI piece,” adding that we need to work with senior stakeholders to show them the benefit of LIVE events.

UKickstart was a nationwide showcase of a major hybrid event, 7

powered by Glisser and PSAV, and confidence levels and the commitment to running hybrid events has been on an upward trajectory over the past few months, according to previous surveys conducted by etc.venues. Over a four-week period in July, for example, the percentage of event organisers planning to hold hybrid events in 2020 grew from 73 per cent to 95 per cent.

Adam Simpson, director of marketing at etc. venues who initiated UKickstart, said:

“It is great to see so many people planning events for this year.

Although the Government’s recent

announcement created a slight dip, we are already seeing the momentum towards our recovery increasing once more. In fact, we were among those who remained confident that the recovery of the meetings sector would continueand will remain committed tobuilding the momentum.”

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Seaside Finolhu Maldives Ready to

Open Following Exciting Transformation After undergoing an extensive upgrade of its facilities, one of the Maldives’ most luxurious resorts is now ready to welcome guests once more. When Seaside Finolhu opens for business again on 1 November 2020, guests will be treated to a whole new barefoot chic experience with the self-styled island playground having completed its elaborate transition from luxury island resort to proud member of the exclusive Design Hotels portfolio.

fauna, sunsets and seascapes. Muza Lab’s co-founder Nathan Hutchins describes how “the changing colours, patterns and textures represent moments of discovery, wonder and delight.” The transformation is a key milestone for Finolhu as it successfully fulfils the requirements of embodying quality, style, and holistic hospitality concepts to earn its place as the first resort in the Maldives included in the prestigious Design Hotel’s international portfolio.

While the Covid-19 pandemic has caused unprecedented disruption to the tourism industry, Seaside Finolhu has seized on the unique opportunity presented by the global shutdown to complete both aesthetic and functional upgrades right across the resort. Overseen by the award-winning Muza Lab design studio, the transformation of Seaside Finolhu extends to its villas, restaurants, wellness facilities, public areas, and sport and fitness activities, including a state-of-the-art indoor golf studio.

Combining dashes of traditional Maldivian culture with contemporary lifestyle convenience, the overall ambiance of the resort is described as “barefoot chic” by Marc Reader, Seaside Finolhu’s General Manager. “It’s a design-driven balance between style and escapism,” he explains. “Here you can unwind in sublime comfort, with the pristine beauty of our secluded Maldivian paradise perfectly complemented by ultra-luxurious modernity.”

Throughout the resort, the bold new design concept unleashes a kaleidoscope of colours inspired by the vibrant natural hues of the island’s stunning flora,

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Every aspect of the guest experience at Seaside Finolhu has been transformed to reflect this philosophy. From the style and comfort of the resort’s 125 villas, 76 of which have their own pool, and the culinary journey

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served up by the eclectic selection of international dining options, to the sheer indulgence of the spa and the sense of tropical island adventure provided by the many water sports on offer, every detail has been carefully crafted to create a lifestyle resort that caters to the discerning affluent traveller of today.

Muza Lab’s co-founder Inge Moore explained the lengths that they have gone to in order to bring the design concept to life: “Artisans from all over the world have created special works for the resort. Artistic tiles from Turkey, chandeliers and wickerwork from South Africa and wooden craftwork from Java transform the villas, bars & restaurants, the fitness room and, last but not least, the Oceaneers Kids Club into an exotic playground.”

Operated by the German luxury hotel chain, Seaside Collection, the resort recently changed its official name from simply Finolhu, which translates as ‘sandbank’ in the local language, to Seaside Finolhu.

Now as part of the resort’s holistic transformation, Seaside Finolhu

has also introduced new names and concepts for its dining and spa facilities.

amidst lush gardens. With treatment rooms, saunas, a stream room, a plunge pool and a hair and nail salon, the holistic While the resort’s fine-dining treatments are designed to ensure restaurant has retained not only guests feel physically, mentally the name Kanusan but also its and spiritually rejuvenated. sophisticated ambiance, Seaside Finolhu’s all-day dining restaurant Living up to its ‘island playground’ now goes by the name of Beach philosophy, Seaside Finolhu Kitchen. Serving international fare provides guests with a diverse during the day, Beach Kitchen also choice of fun activities in the brings the resort’s culinary journey indoor and outdoor gym, the concept to life with destination- Yoga Pavilion, and a state-of-the-themed dining experiences each -art indoor golf studio. Kayaking, evening. The Arabian Grill serves windsurfing, paddle boarding up an exotic mélange of flavours, and jet skiing are among the aromas and decor from across water sports available, while the the Middle East in a relaxed new Dive Center offers diving, atmosphere, while Crab Shack is snorkelling and semi-submarine a rustic seafood grill that offers boat trips. a real toes-in-the-sand dining experience on a secluded stretch From the new design focus of beach. For guests looking to and the upgraded facilities grab a drink, the new Milk Lab to the exciting activities and serves a selection of refreshing rejuvenating wellness treatments, milkshakes, protein drinks and the underlying theme of Seaside fresh coffee.

Finolhu’s transformation is fun.

Perhaps nowhere is this better Fehi Spa takes its name from the personified than stellar musical local word for ‘green’ and it fully and cultural performances or the embraces the green concepts exhilarating themes parties. of nature, purity, healing, and harmony in a tranquil setting 10

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Lex Butler,

Chair of HBAA commented Following the Prime Minister’s announcement earlier, the business events sector which underpins economic growth for all industries, has today been further decimated.

“Many of our agency and venue members have gone beyond or are at tipping point; they have had to make redundancies, they are unsure if their businesses can survive, many haven’t had any income for over six months.

Financial reserves and overdrafts are exhausted, and this news will regrettably accelerate the inevitable.

“Whilst HBAA fully appreciates and supports the need for these tighter measures in the interests of the country’s fight back against the spread of Covid 19, we must receive substantial financial support without delay. We continue to campaign and lobby for additional financial support specifically for our sector, and we have to see action now if our businesses, and the industry, are to survive.”

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Female visitors dominate attendance at

EXPAT Travel Deal 2020 The ‘Expat Travel Deal 2020’ organised by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) from 11 to 13 September, 2020, saw a majority turnout of female visitors, highlighting the role of women as decision-makers in choosing travel destinations.

The event, the first of its kind targetted at the nearly three million expatriates in Thailand, was held at the Quartier Gallery, EmQuartier shopping mall in Bangkok. It was designed to offer domestic tourism promotions to encourage them to travel more domestically, and enjoy Thailand’s many attractions.

According to a TAT survey, the event recorded a total of 9,957 visitors, generating an immediate revenue of 7,427,021 Baht. Females comprised 53% of the visitors and males 47%. Most of the attendees were in the business and commercial professions, but also included foreign diplomats and teachers at international schools in Thailand.

The preferred destinations were:South Thailand 31%, North Thailand 28%, Eastern Thailand: 15%, Northeast 14%, and Central Thailand 11%.

The preferred promotions were: Hotel Discount 49%, Special Airfare 32%, Free Transfers 12%, and Others: 6%.

Mr. Chattan Kunjara Na Ayudhya, TAT Deputy Governor for International Marketing (Asia and South

Pacific) said, “We are very pleased with this initial effort and plan to do more to reach out to the large expatriate population, many of whom have strong links with the kingdom and who express great love for Thailand and its people.”

As of June 2020, there were a total of 2,459,785 foreigners with permission to work in Thailand, according to the Department of Employment, Ministry of Labour. The total includes 155,193 skilled employees (investors, experts, skilled craftsman, and BOI) and 25,110 foreign students.

The Expat Travel Deal 2020 showcased travel products and services from all five regions of Thailand (North, Central, South, East and Northeast), demonstrations of local arts and crafts making skills; such as, ceramic bead bracelets and Thai reed mats, as well as tourism-related talk sessions.

Participating businesses included Michelin-starred restaurants, health and wellness facilities, airlines, golf courses, and the Alipay online platform. Travel agencies offered customised travel packages at discounted rates. Expat attendees had to present identification to be eligible for special deals at the event.

Mr. Chattan said TAT will be rolling out a number of other promotional activities, including joint promotions with Alipay, Thailand-based travel companies, and the airlines. Moreover, these will be promoted alongside familiarisation trips for members of the foreign media and representatives of foreign travel companies in Thailand.

Other forms of publicity will include content marketing with online and offline publications for expats in Thailand, focussing on businesses that are certified with the Amazing Thailand Safety and Health Administration (SHA) standard.

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Alluring Retreats Await

You in JAMAICA

From stunning sunsets, to intimate catamaran cruises, to moonlit dinners, even romance is outsized in JAMAICA. Couples will return home with a deeply emotional and transformative experience tonremember.

J

amaica is a land of unique culture, engaging adventurous activities, breath-taking landscapes and panoramic views.

It is the perfect place to spark romance and with so many options, the possibilities for creating spectacular memories are endless.

The destination has always been synonymous with romance and is home to several one-of-a-kind hotels that deliver just the right mix of Jamaican culture and romantic amenities to keep couples coming back for more. There are adults only all-inclusive resorts, high end luxury hotels, villas, apartments, and boutique properties. Each resort area has a wide range of hotels to make your romantic holiday unforgettable. Our top accommodation picks are Half Moon Jamaica, Hyatt Ziva Rose Hall, Round Hill Hotel & Villas, Breathless Resorts & Spas, Secrets Resorts & Spas and Sandals Royal Caribbean in Montego Bay, Rockhouse Hotel & Spa, The Caves, & Sunset at the Palms in Negril, Jamaica Inn, Golden Eye & Couples Tower Isle Jamaica in Ocho Rios and Kanopi House and Goblin Hill Villas at San San in Port Antonio.

Starting from Jamaica’s jagged coastline

of thick foliage that opens to breath-taking waterfalls, idyllic secluded beaches, stunning sunsets, intimate catamaran cruises, moonlit dinners and much more, Jamaica oozes romance. So, what might the perfect romantic vacation in Jamaica look like?

!

Here are 9 romantic things you can only experience in Jamaica which will make your vacation the most memorable experience for you and your sweetheart

✓ ✓

Relaxing ride down a river on a Bamboo Raft is one of Jamaica’s most iconic activities and is perfect for lovers with time to spare. Experience being steered lazily down the picturesque Martha Brae River on an authentic bamboo raft for two surrounded by lush tropical paradise for blissful relaxation.

Take a night cruise on the Luminous Lagoon and witness the most spectacular wonder. Phosphorescent waters reveal the outline of fish and streaks of light as they swim around.

✓

You can experience luxurious Spa treatments available for two that will revitalize the body and ignite passion.

World class spa retreats are found around the island at several of our exquisite resorts and hotels.

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Witness nature adventures as you hike to the Reach Falls in Port Antonio for a blend of adrenaline rush, lush green scenery, a waterfall cascading into a refreshing emerald pool and a hidden cave. A trip into the Blue Mountains in Kingston reveals a dreamy and majestic ambience where couples can feel hidden from the rest of the world.

✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓

Enjoy climbing the Dunn's River Falls together, feel the bliss of the clear blue sea and spend the most intimate moments, away from it all.

Get into the Rhythm of Jamaica in Negril, the perfect spot to stroll along with your partner and to enjoy live music on the Seven Mile Beach and West End. Every Monday and Saturday night heats up with live reggae shows at Bourbon Beach.

Experience Jamaica’s vibrant nightlife and lively atmosphere at Rick’s Café, which is the best place to watch an evening sunset. There is nothing more magical than an evening sunset here.

Enjoy Romantic Horseback Rides, saddle up on a horse with your partner and pass through trails of lush foliage, stonewashed cliffs, and breath-taking ocean views. This is one of the ultimate romantic experiences for vacationing couples in Jamaica.

Sail away along the beauty of the Jamaican coastline, in the wake of a romantic Catamaran Cruise, with your loved one. Choose from any of the island’s catamaran cruise tours. Not only will you spend three hours of quality time together, but catamarans also allow you to take in Jamaica’s charming sunset and soak up stellar views of the cool blue Caribbean waters.

Did you know? Jamaica has won the “World’s Leading Wedding

Destination” award at The World Travel Awards in 2014, 2016 and 2017. To date, the country consistently ranks at the top of wedding and honeymoon destinations booked by travel agents.

The vibe and beauty of Jamaica offers an adventurous and laid-back lifestyle that you will love to experience. This is the place to visit when you are in search of adventure, romance, and non-stop fun!

Kandima Maldives presents the ultimate global travel contest, ‘365 Days in Paradise’ in association with Condé Nast Traveller (India and Middle East) One lucky winner stands to win a One Year dream holiday worth Rs. 1 Crore!

Kandima Maldives, with its ‘Bring it On!’ spirit, has launched the ultimate Global Travel Contest – ‘365 days in Paradise’– in association with Condé Nast Traveller (India& Middle East).

The lucky winner will be able to live their dream life for one year in the Maldives at the game changing Kandima lifestyle resort, and it all starts just by uploading a photo!

Imagining a world with no limits, Kandima invites travel enthusiasts from all over the world to come and play and explore the endless possibilities of this once in a lifetime vacation experience!

In line with Kandima’s uplifting ‘Lifestyle Reimagined’ campaign, the grand prize promises 365 K’ sunrises, lipsmacking dining experiences, mesmerising Maldivian sunsets, kilometres of sandy beaches with crystal clear waters, oh-so-stylish selfies, refreshing snorkelling sessions, creative yoga and wellness workshops, soul stirring music beats or simply 365 relaxing beach walks.

This comes hot on the heels of the resort opening for guests from the first of September this year.

A 360° experience for 365 days The contest is simple to enter –in just a few steps contestants will be eligible to win this year long dream vacation worth Rs.1 Crore ($150,000+)! As part of this amazing prize the lucky winner will be able to bring along their companion and two children below 12 years 18

of age to experience this once-in-a-lifetime journey at Kandima Maldives.

The winner will receive a full board stay at the gorgeous Kandima Sky Studio, complimentary unlimited round- trip domestic flight transfers to the resort,exclusive resort vouchers and loads of kool experiences to explore during their entire stay duration. The winner can choose to stay at Kandima Maldives for 365 days in one go or visit as many times as they want during the one-year validity period. #Justplay Terms & Conditions apply

How to Enter the Global Travel Contest: Kandima Maldives is here to make life simple and fun! The global travel contest is no different.

To enter, simply access the contest website at www.kandima. com/365daysinparadise

and upload a creatively shot, original photo of yourself enjoying one of the key Kandima Ingredients i.e.Nature, Sports &Wellness, Food, Adventure orFun, and yay! you are ready to roll!Be sure to also post your entry on your social media and tag #KandimaMaldives #365DaysInParadise.

Entries close on 8 th October 2020!

The Top 15 shortlisted participants will enter the final round and submit a 1-minute innovatively imagined video travbuzznews

on - ‘How do you imagine your 365 days at Kandima Maldives’. This will be uploaded on the contest website and followed by public voting. Entries for final phase close on 20 th October 2020.

Our panel of judgeswill select and announce the lucky winner on 1 st November 2020, on the website and the social media channels of Kandima Maldives and Condé Nast Traveller (India & Middle East). The winner can start to redeem their‘365 days in Paradise’holiday from as soon as 15 th November onwards at the lush tropiKal playground of Kandima Maldives!

Neeraj Seth, Director of Marketing Communication & Public Relations, Kandima Maldives, says: “We are delighted to announce the experience redefining‘365 Days in Paradise’contest. For us at Kandima, it’s part of the spirit that not only ties back to our brand promise, but also emphasizes our goals to offer a spectrum of thoughtfully reimagined experiences to our guests. We are sure that with this once in a lifetime opportunity we will create a global marketing campaign to remember.”

Being a step ahead in addressing the new travel expectations, Kandima is where boredom simply does not exist, matching the customer’s expectations and helping them achieve their bucket list! Kandima Maldives welcomes guests to rediscover an inspiring active lifestyle. Kandima’s specially designed K’OnGuard programme closely manages all health, safety and service protocols,with a state-of-the-art Medical Clinic and international doctors to provide round the clock assistance on the island. The resort inspires guests to live life to the absolute fullest with all safety guidelines intact and no compromise on the fun elements. #MyKindOfPlace #LifestyleReimagined

Hamburg welcomes major global business events in renewable energy and medical sectors “Fifteen minutes in someone else’s company is worth more than any amount of time spent on a phone or video call with them. The interactions between participants at live events are far more memorable, and allow attendees to truly take the time to get to know each other and create stronger networks with longer lasting bonds,” said Justine Matthys, Assistant Vice President Production at ACI, organisers of the European E-Fuels Conference in Hamburg.

The European E-Fuels Conference is one of three major business events scheduled over the next few months in Hamburg. The event organisers and venues shared with Hamburg Convention Bureau why they chose to hold a live or hybrid event over an entirely virtual offering:

Renewable energy stake holders to attend site visit Justine continues: “Although there have been great improvements in virtual events, we believe that nothing gets close to attending an event in person. Striking up conversations in the queue for registration, at the coffee station during a refreshment break or sitting next to somebody at lunch for an hour are opportunities only available at a live event.”

ACI’s European E-Fuels Conference takes place in Hamburg on the 4 & 5 November and will bring together key industry stakeholders from the renewables, fuels, energy and oil & gas industry including car manufacturers, e-fuel producers, technology providers, consultants and policy advisors.

Delegates can also join an exclusive pre-show site visit to the Audi e-gas plant in nearby Werlte (pictured). travbuzznews

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Live operations at aortic symposium The Aortic Live Symposium takes place 26 & 27 October in Erika House, the historical halls of Hamburg’s University Medical Centre, and brings together international experts to discuss techniques for treatment of the aorta and aortic valve. Live operations from four internationally renowned hospitals will be shown (pictured), demonstrating cutting edge technology and operative technique. At the previous edition of the event, 20 high-level operations took place.

This year the Aortic Live Symposium is hybrid with the event’s content - operations, lectures and panel discussions - streamed alongside a virtual exhibition. Tonie Jäger, CEO of CongO, organisers of Aortic Live Symposium, explains: “The course directors and CongO have decided to organise Aortic Live Symposium as a hybrid event to enable us to adhere to new hygiene rules, but also retain the lively and spontaneous exchange between leaders in vascular surgery and cardiac surgery that takes place at the live event. Our new format allows the faculty to attend onsite with the event streamed live for participants – this includes live case transmission from four internationally renowned hospitals.”

2020 – a pivotal year for wind energy WindEnergy Hamburg is the global trade fair for the onshore and offshore wind industry which takes place every two years in the city (pictured). Known as the world’s largest exhibition for the wind industry, the 2018 edition attracted 35,000 visitors from more than 100 countries. Hamburg Messe and its co-organiser WindEurope have adapted the concept for this year’s event, which takes place 1 – 4 December (postponed from September) at Hamburg Messe. A roundtable meeting will be held with selected health authorities and health & safety executives and some elements of the conference and trade fair will be delivered digitally.

“The big ambitions of the EU Green Deal and the economic recovery plans Europe is putting in place, make 2020 a pivotal year for the energy transition. Further expansion of wind energy is central to the Green Deal and will deliver jobs and investments needed for recovery. Meeting in Hamburg, a key hub for our industry, will show that the wind industry is ready to deliver”, comments Giles Dickson, CEO of WindEurope.

Hamburg Messe hosts one of first trade fairs in Germany Hamburg Messe is well prepared to welcome WindEnergy Hamburg delegates having recently hosted another major trade fair onsite. Retail trade show Nordstil took place 5 – 7 September and attracted 300 exhibitors from Germany and Europe and around 5,000 visitors. Karsten Broockmann, corporate press office at Hamburg Messe, explains: “This was one of the first trade fairs in Germany since the beginning of the coronavirus pandemic and consequently a key ordering opportunity for the consumer goods sector. Health and safety measurements onsite ensured compliance with all applicable Covid-19 requirements. “We believe that holding live events will always be important and our exhibitors have been telling us that nothing can replace direct, person-to-person interaction. To build long-lasting business relationships and mutual trust, it is essential to be able to look each other in the eyes."

CMEE IIM Lucknow organized a Webinar on

‘Tourism in the Covid-19 Pandemic Era: Challenges and the Way Forward The Centre for Marketing in Emerging Economies (CMEE) organized a webinar on ‘Tourism in the COVID19 Pandemic Era: Challenges and the Way Forward’ on September 19 th, 2020. The webinar was an attempt to discuss concerns of different stakeholders on Tourism in the times of COVID-19 and to also understand the challenges and opportunities of the Indian tourism sector. Prof. Archana Shukla, Director, IIM Lucknow welcomed the eminent speakers and set the floor for discussion. She mentioned the importance of the tourism sector in India'seconomy and called for joint effort from different stakeholders to revive the confidence of tourists.

She expressed four major factors at this time are driving the psychology of consumers for not going out specifically for tourism purposes.

Trust factor is going to play a major role across all the stakeholders because it is something perceptual and based on experience. Rising Health consciousness, safety, and hygiene are other three major prominent factors which demotivate consumers for tourism purposes.

Ensuring a trustworthy environment by taking care of safety, hygiene and health the need of people is critical at this hour for attracting people for tourism.

More investment and risk taking appetite is required in this sector for delivering improved service quality, recruiting new talents to face newer challenges caused due to Covid-19. She also assured all necessary support from the Institute for developing a problem solving approach for revival of the tourism sector.

Prof. Satyabhusan Dash and Prof.

Priyanka Sharma were the conveners of this event. Senior leaders from the travbuzznews

government and private institutions, policy makers and academicians discussed the policies and programs made by them to manage the crisis.

Prof. Priyanka Sharma opened the discussion of the webinar by narrating the objective of the webinar and moderated the discussion. Prof. Satyabhushan Dash, Chair-CMEE, introduced different activities of CMEE, discussed about the underlying stress people are going through and how tourism consumption can be a coping mechanism to reduce stress. He suggested improving theperformance of online airline sites and IRCTC in the face of COVID19 crisis by showing findings from user generated reviews. He also announced the next PAN India research of‘Tourism consumption behaviour in the times of Covid-19’.

Excerpts from Speaker’s address Jyoti Mayal, President, Travel Agents Association of India (TAAI) started with a backgroundon how Covid-19 has affected people and the industry across the globe. She focused on the need for accurate, up-to-date and reliable information more than ever and also a requirement to relieve the anxiety of the consumers by ensuring that robust frameworks are developed prioritizing safety and hygiene of the travellers, basically a cogent strategy involving the government and other stakeholders with three phrases - Survival, Revival and Thrival.Gurbaxish Singh Kohli, Vice-President, Federation of Hotel & Restaurant Association (FHRAI), President, Hotel and Restaurant Association of Western India (HRAWI),expressed his concern that the industry has almost no consumer confidence as of now and the industry is facing severe economic crisis. The immediate strategy to be adapted is to address survival which 27

must be in the form of Public and Private partnership Need support from the government in the form of restructuring of loans and certain tax waivers for the survival of this labor-intensive sector. Basically the industry ships are not be asked to pay any tax or levy for related to the hospitality industry as it has not been able to use the premises for what it was meant to be used for.

Automatic renewal of all licenses for the next term etc would help in providing the much needed working capital in the hands of the otherwise debt ridden and collapsing industry.

Sunil Suresh, Chief Marketing Officer, MakeMyTrip was concerned but also positive that since the lockdown has been lifted, there are a lot of people who are willing to travel, and signs of business travel are not visible. He mentioned how China, Japan and India have seen more business during the COVID-19 era as compared to the last year. MMT is taking several marketing initiatives such as MySafety and to have an open conversation with the customer and try being as transparent as possible on all aspects of travel and safety related information.

Rajni Hasija, Director - Tourism & Marketing, IRCTC, Ministry of Railways, Govt. of India said that they used this period for re-inventing themselves and restoring the confidence of the customers.

IRCTC is focusing on inbound tourism during 2021, 2022 and 2023. Many awareness programs are launched and campaigns are run to create positivity and awareness among the citizens. Special touring packages and programs were invented during this time and all the safety measures were followed strictly.

Shri Mukesh Meshram, IAS, Principal Secretary - Tourism & Culture,

Government of Uttar Pradesh mentioned the importance of digital assistance such as releasing online 360-degree video views of unexplored tourist destinations. He was concerned that people have a lot of psychological problems, so starting with the idea of faith tourism doesn’t cost much. Further, he highlighted Eco-Tourism and Medical-Tourism, religious tours, organic farming and various initiatives with the assistance from the World Bank focussing on infrastructure expansion. About 200 acres of land available for tourism infrastructure development in Varanasi and Kushinagar.

In Ayodhya also land acquisition process is going on.

World bank is providing loan of about $50 millions for the pro-poor tourism activities like income generation of poor people living around in Mathura, Agra, Varanasi and Kushinagar. World bank is providing loan of about $50 millions for the pro-poor tourism activities like income generation of poor people living around in Mathura, Agra, Varanasi and Kushinagar. Thus, by engaging the youngsters, adventure tourism or Swadesh Darshan can be boosted. Uttar Pradesh under the leadership of Hon’ble Chief Minister Shri Yogi Adityanath ji is the most proactive and responsible state in the country in managing the COVID-19

situation with less mortality due to COVID-19 and the economic activities have started with precautions.

Meenakshi Sharma, Director General (Tourism), Ministry of Tourism, Government of India said that being fragmented, the industry is divided into hotels, transportations, tourism, but this is the first time that everyone stands together and stands high. She referred to work on three points: firstly how the pandemic situation grows. It is dependent on how many more people get contaminated by the virus. Second, is the governance of Government as the government is also focusing on the foriegn travels. Thirdly, there needs to be a change in the promotional activity of campaigns like ‘INCREDIBLE INDIA’. The new promotions must include factors like wellness, less crowded tourism, factor of experience and learning based trips etc.

Prof. Devashish Das Gupta, IIM Lucknow mentioned the need to look into Tourism Policy and promotion from purely the tourist perspective. He emphasised that all the information touch points especially the website and all the social media handles should stress on communicating the Covid prevention preparedness.

There should be complete prevention of physical touch points like ticketing in monuments as well as physical 28

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frisking. Same can be replaced with technology interventions like eticketing as well as thermal imaging. He also emphasised that there should be no ad campaigns but small marketing communication interventions in the BTL mode especially the social media handles. Official tourism website Incredible.org should be renamed with a more Tourism familiar name. Moreover the website should showcase that Indian tourism destinations are safe.

In this context he presented a comparison with Netherland Tourism and French Tourism Websites. Prof Devashish underlined the need for inter-departmental coordination for better tourist experience. He also spoke on the need for developing specific SOPs (Standard Operating Procedure) for both preventive and curative disaster management.

Concluding, since the situation has become the new normal so we need to think abnormally to overcome the situation. He shared some innovative ideas regarding online sale of handicrafts to customers, 3D tours, creating one day trips, creation of national tourism authority, inviting innovative ideas for tourism and honouring the best with awards, professional hiring and new security interventions for tourists.

Divia Thani, Editor, Conde Nast Traveller India is optimistic about the future of the travel industry.

During the past six months during the pandemic, Conde Nast Traveller has seen a 100% growth in their digital audiences. Engagement and interest in travel is at an all-time high for affluent audiences, for whom travel is integral to their lifestyles. The recovery will be led by high-end travellers with high disposable incomes. This is an opportunity for the industry to focus on high-margin, low-impact travellers for whom the priorities are now nature and the outdoors; health and wellness; local, regional, seasonal food and cuisines. Hygiene is a given and must be communicated consistently. Sustainable and responsible tourism is the way forward and travbuzznews

governments must focus on this above everything else as the opportunity to make substantial change is now.

One way of doing this is to ensure we measure our goals and successes in travel using not footfalls as a measure but by focusing on revenue instead.

Finally, Prof. Satyabhusan Dash and Prof. Priyanka Sharma gave a vote of thanks and congratulated all the speakers and participants for such an insightful discussion with unique and relevant points to revive tourism in the post-pandemic era.

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SOTC and Thomas Cook India

announce the launch of a unique Customer Loyalty Program – Priority On the occasion of World Tourism Day, in recognition of the trust displayed by its customers, Thomas Cook (India) Ltd., India’s leading integrated travel services company and its Group Company, SOTC Travel Ltd., announced the launch of Priority – an exclusive loyalty program. Available as a Platinum and Gold variant, the Priority program entitles its members to significant and exclusive benefits: the services of a dedicated relationship manager, exclusive holiday previews, special priority offers, benefits across alliance partners, birthday specials, invitations to events and a host of attractive deals/promotions across domestic and international holidays and additional travel services.

In this new era of travel, Thomas Cook India and SOTC have ensured unerring customer

focus with the introduction of an innovative portfolio: Domestic Workations, Staycations, Hidden Gems, etc. and an international portfolio of Private Journeys, Live It Up and A La Carte holidays – each carefully designed basis customer feedback. Simultaneously, to build customer confidence in travel, the companies’ comprehensive health and safety initiatives such as the Assured Program in partnership with Apollo Clinics, end-to-end COVID-negative certification services and Safe Holiday Helpline, have helped ensure a stress free holiday experience. In a further initiative to empower customers and thank them for their trust, Thomas Cook India and SOTC have introduced Priority – a unique loyalty club with significant in-built advantages to deepen customer bonds and create holiday memories of a lifetime.

Mr. Vishal Suri, Managing Director, SOTC Travel Limited said, SOTC Travel has been at the forefront of innovation and customer centric initiatives in this new era of travel. To ensure customer confidence in travel, we have introduced a range of assured, insured & secured holidays in line with our Safe Travel program.

In our commitment towards a customer-first approach and to further connect and strengthen our association with our valued customers, we have introduced our exclusive Priority program that offers customers a more personalized, flexible and truly rewarding experience. The unique offerings and comprehensive benefits such as a personal relationship manager to assist with holiday planning, special priority offers, birthday exclusives, amongst others, strive to enhance the travel experience for our frequent travellers, reassuring them of our excellence across our holiday portfolio.”

Mr. Mahesh Iyer, Executive Director & CEO, Thomas Cook (India) Ltd. said, At Thomas Cook India we are committed to our customer-first strategy and this has been the catalyst to the series of innovative and meaningful initiatives that deliver on our promise of Assured, Insured and Secured. The launch of our Priority program is yet another step in this direction and serves to recognize and reward our loyal customers who are an integral part of the Thomas Cook India family. In addition to a dedicated relationship manager, our Priority program offers significant advantages and we intend to further enhance customer delight via an ongoing series of exclusive and exciting offers.”

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NEGATIVE GROWTH OF 68.2% FOR TOURIST ARRIVALS IN THE FIRST HALF OF 2020 Malaysia registered 4,252,997 tourist arrivals in the first half of 2020, marking a decrease of 68.2% compared to the same period in 2019. Last year, Malaysia received over 13.3 million tourist arrivals from January until June.

visitors to the country, Malaysia recorded a total of 1,712,140 arrivals from January to June 2020, a decrease of 64.2% compared to 4,782,587 excursionists who visited Malaysia in the same period last year.

For the first six months of 2020, the tourist expenditure recorded a total of RM12.5 billion, a decrease of 69.8% compared to RM41.6 billion received for the same period last year. Similarly, the per capita expenditure showed a decline of 5.3% from RM3,121.60 in 2019 to RM2,956.10 this year.

The significant drop in the number of tourists and excursionists is attributed to the closure of international borders in response to the spread of Covid-19 virus.

After the World Health Organisation (WHO)’s declaration of Covid-19 as a pandemic on March 11, the government of Malaysia imposed Movement Control Order (MCO) barring entry of international tourists beginning March 18.

The top ten tourist generating markets were Singapore (1,541,820), Indonesia (702,082), China (401,285), Thailand (348,133), India (153,873), Brunei (135,593), South Korea (118,594), Japan (73,201), Australia (72,103) and Philippines (64,311).

Negative growth had been observed for tourists from every regional market namely short-haul market (-69.1%), medium-haul market (-69.0) and long-haul market (-58.8%) from January until June 2020.

In terms of the number of excursionists, or the daily

The effects of the pandemic on the tourism sector can be seen beyond the borders of Malaysia. According to the data from the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA), negative growth in tourist arrivals is not unique to Malaysia, as the neighbouring ASEAN countries including Thailand, Singapore, Vietnam and Indonesia recorded similar decrease due to the ban on international travel imposed to combat the pandemic in the respective countries.

SA CELEBRATES WORLD TOURISM

DAY WITH A COMMITMENT TO REIGNITE DOMESTIC TRAVEL MARKETS Covid- 19 pandemic.”

“As we navigate a path to recovery, and gradually re-open our borders to safely welcome international visitors, we urge South Africans to travel and explore their country responsibly,” said Tourism Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi-Ngubane.

South Africa joined the globe in celebrating World Tourism Day today with festivities at Maropeng’s Cradle of Humankind in the western corridor of the Gauteng Province.

World Tourism Day is a United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) initiative observed annually on 27 September to highlight the sector’s contribution to the socio–economic development of nations, and the advancement of the global Sustainable Development Goals (SDG).

Themed ‘Rural Development and Tourism,’ the celebrations highlighted the significant role the domestic tourism market will play in reigniting the sector, especially in spearheading tourism in lesser-visited rural communities in all nine provinces.

“Today’s celebration is a testament that the tourism industry is able to host an event in a safe manner under the current

The tourism industry is one of the largest economic sectors in the world – creating jobs, driving exports and generating prosperous local economies.

According to the UNWTO, the industry contributed 10.4% to the global GDP and created 319 million jobs in 2018.

The UNWTO’s May 2020 extended scenarios on tourism growth predict that the market will rebound in mid-2021 based on assumptions of a reversal in the evolution of the Covid19 Pandemic. Minister Kubayi-Ngubane said she remains hopeful that South Africa’s domestic market would have gained strides in recovery, providing an amicable environment for inclusive and sustainable growth.

“Our authentic heritage and cultural experiences have been a draw card for international visitors for many years. Although a large number of employment opportunities have in the past been driven by international tourist arrivals, we believe that these jobs, and those yet to be created, 32

will be sustained by the renewed strength of our domestic tourism markets.”

“As we work towards rebuilding the sector, we will pursue increased marketing efforts to encourage South Africans to explore the country so we can grow sustainable local economies.”

“Our industry is also laden with the potential to re-ignite opportunities for new entrants.

We are confident that through the Tourism Recovery Plan, we will pave a way to realising those opportunities for many South Africans” “I encourage you to explore your country, embrace your heritage and help us re-build our local economies to usher in the benefits we envisioned when we fought for our democracy,” concluded Minister Kubayi-Ngubane.

The Cradle of Humankind hosted a day-long global event that featured internationallyacclaimed and award-winning DJ, Black Coffee, who entertained global fans with a unique two-hour set from the Sterkfontein Caves that was broadcast live on DSTV Channel O. The electrifying Busiswa and Master KG concluded the celebrations in style inspiring attendees to hit the dance floor in response to President Cyril Ramphasa’s call to join the #Je rusalemaDanceChallenge.#J erusalemaDanceChallenge. travbuzznews

New boardroom for 24 delegates and a creative space designed like a Tube station are among many new developments at Wyboston Lakes Resort.

A sophisticated new boardroom for up to 24 delegates - The Park; a new creative space designed like a London tube station - Willows Parkway; the upgrading of 12 meeting rooms and the creation of new dining and social spaces are some of the extensive enhancements recently completed at Wyboston Lakes Resort.

These are all among the many features of a comprehensive refurbishment of The Willows Training Centre, one of Wyboston Lakes Resort’s two dedicated facilities for meetings alongside its Woodlands Event Centre.

The Willows Training Centre has been refurbished to meet current and future needs with a comprehensive restyling of its interiors focusing on creating light open spaces that offer extensive easy to use technology and comfort with fun social areas, workstations and working areas suited to downtime with plenty of power points and wireless connectivity.

The public areas, reception, bar, restaurant and many of the venue’s 183 ensuite bedrooms have also been upgraded.

The Cricket Kitchen, a self-service buffet restaurant, provides a bright open space with the added flexibility of a moving wall to provide clients with more options or added privacy. This is complemented by a newly created alfresco area and an easy self-service ‘Pit Stop’ by Paddy & Scott’s Cafes.

The result is a comfortable, flexible space, designed with the trainer and delegate in mind, offering self-service options and freedom to relax.

This development follows the £3million overhaul of the resort’s Woodlands Event Centre, which was finished just over a year ago and brings Wyboston Lakes Resort’s total spend on capital reinvestment to over £10m in the last few years.

Steve Jones, Managing Director of Wyboston Lakes Resort said: The Willows Training

Centre is hugely popular with our guests and receives outstanding feedback. It was however very dated and this comprehensive refurbishment addresses that and makes the venue fit for the future.

It also brings the quality up in line with our other venues and will continue to offer excellent value along with class-leading standards.

HML welcomes Hong Kong Government’s announcement to launch Convention and Exhibition Industry Subsidy Scheme Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (Management) Limited ("HML") today said it welcomes the announcement that the Hong Kong SAR Government will launch the Convention and Exhibition Industry Subsidy Scheme (“Subsidy Scheme”) on 3rd October 2020. HML Managing Director Ms Monica Lee-Müller said, ‘The Government’s launch of the Subsidy Scheme in early October will help ease financial burdens on the local convention and exhibition industry and help it attract domestic and overseas exhibitors, buyers and conference delegates to Hong Kong, strengthening the city’s competitiveness as the region’s leading convention and exhibition hub.’

Ms Lee-Müller added, ‘With the on-going pandemic situation overseas, countries are continuously updating their inbound and outbound travel restrictions and compulsory quarantine requirements. As such, many international exhibitions and conventions originally scheduled for the second half of 2020 have been postponed or cancelled. Mega exhibitions typically have long planning lead-times, and re-launching them before the October 2021 deadline for the Subsidy travbuzznews

Scheme may prove challenging. However, we believe that once the pandemic is under control, exhibition and convention organisers will waste no time bringing exhibitions back onto their event calendars. To ensure that mega exhibitions and international conventions return to Hong Kong after the pandemic, the industry will continue to communicate closely with the Government so that timely actions can be taken to maximize the impact of the Subsidy Scheme.’

The HK$1,020 million (US$131 million) Subsidy Scheme to reinvigorate the convention and exhibition industry has been set up under the Government’s Anti-epidemic Fund. Originally slated to be launched in July 2020, it was postponed following the third wave of the pandemic in the city, which caused the postponement of conventions and exhibitions that were originally scheduled to take place from mid-July to September. The Subsidy Scheme offers to cover a 100% venue rental cost for organizers of exhibitions and international conventions held at Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre and AsiaWorld-Expo.

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A Big Thanks to all Industry Peers for Making Travel O Manthan A Big Success

Ankush Nijhawan Co Founder TBO Group

Rajeev Kale

Rudain Dias

President & Country Head MiCE , Leisure Holiday & VISA Thomas Cook India

Taiwan Tourism

Ms Jyoti Mayal President , TAAI

Ms Brigit Albicker- Rimpel

Ajay Seth

Dirctor International Sales Deutsche Hospitality

CEO, Delmos World

Mr. Vachirachai Sirisumpan Director ,Tourism Authority of Thailand New Delhi Office

Mice Affairs Media Group Joins Hands with GNA University on World Tourism Day 2020 An educational session was organized bringing travel entrepreneurs to share succcess stories and practical tips for tourism and hospitality Students.

Dr Kusum moderated the session with students from various streams of tourism and hospitality education department.

Mice Affairs Media invited top notch professionals frok the industry so as to deliver the right and meaningful content to students, who are in a cleft stick right now.

Education is a learning process and we all should learn to give it back to society. In an endeavour to do so, we at Mice Affairs Media Group are always open to such opportunities.

This would be our 35th such session with students fraternity and its all possible because of industry friends and Mice Club Community shared Saachin Mannocha, Group Ceo Mice Affairs Media Group India

Dr Kusum commented

Chef Dhiraj Pathak

The session was well appreciated by the faculty as well as students as they got answers to their unsolved queries and got to understand the way ahead and opportunities on the way travbuzznews

CONCLUDED THE SESSION WITH VOTE OF THANKS 37

South Africa is open for international travel!

South African Tourism (SA Tourism) welcomes government’s direction as South Africa opens its international borders today. While South Africa’s borders will not be open to all countries for leisure travel, SA Tourism is delighted to welcome those visitors that are able to come to our country.

required to provide proof of accommodation address, should they need to self-quarantine.

Any person from a high risk country, who wishes to undertake business travel into South Africa, may with effect from 1st October 2020, in writing apply to the Minister of Home Affairs and demonstrate reasons for their request to enter South Africa for business purposes. Such applications must be directed by email to: Covid19BusinessTravel@ dha.gov.za.

This follows President Cyril Ramaphosa’s announcement last month that South Africa would be moving to alert level 1, thus opening up international borders for selected countries from 1 October 2020.

All travellers from African countries will be allowed to travel to South Africa and must possess relevant travel documents, a negative PCR test result and will also be screened for COVID-19 symptoms.

South Africa has developed a risk categorisation model for different countries. This model classifies countries according to a scale of high, medium and low risk. High risk countries are those with higher numbers of COVID-19 infections and reported deaths compared to South Africa. Medium risk countries have a relatively equal number of infections and death toll to South Africa whilst low risk countries have a lesser number of COVID-19 infections and death toll in comparison to South Africa. All travellers coming into the country will need to supply a negative PCR (polymerase chain reaction) COVID test not older than 72 hours from the date of departure from their country. Travellers will also be screened for any COVID-19 symptoms and be

We are encouraged to see that travel is open for the rest of the continent. This follows global trends in changing traveller behaviour which is influenced by trust and confidence where travel starts domestically then regionally and ultimately internationally,” concludes Ntshona.

South Africa has put in place globally-benchmarked health and safety protocols which include the wearing of masks, washing of hands and maintaining social distancing.

While many of our key source markets feature in the high risk category, meaning that they are not able to travel to South Africa for leisure purposes yet, the environment is fluid and changes constantly. We remain optimistic and encouraged by the gradual phased opening of our sector and we will monitor the changes regularly, as the country lists are reviewed every two weeks, says SA Tourism Chief Executive Officer, Mr Sisa Ntshona.

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SC Judgment on Airline Refunds The Hon’able Supreme Court of India has issued a Judgement with regard to a Writ Petition filed for Airline refunds, due to the global pandemic lockdown.

We respect the judgement of Supreme Court, but feel that the judgement is status quo to what DGCA has previously directed the airlines on. Nothing really to appease our challenges and multiple communications and meetings had with MoCA and the airlines in the matter, stated TAAI President Mrs Jyoti Mayal.

The airlines mostly were giving credit shells. If they were struggling with cash and they will continue to do so stating their inability.

Only respite from the earlier direction is that the credit shells will be given to agents if booked through them and not the customer as some airlines were doing.

During our meeting with travbuzznews

MoCA we had demanded interest on delayed refunds, stated Mrs Jyoti Mayal, President-TAAI. The Hon SC has directed 0.5% extra top-up everymonth on the face-value of the ticket, upto 30th June, 2020 and thereafter 0.75% upto 31st March 2021.

This is much below the standard bank interest rates. Agents and customers are struggling with cash crunch and basic interest paid to banks is at much higher rates. The agent fraternity needed total cash refunds. We the travel agents have become financiers for the airlines.

We are deeply concerned on the submissions of certain airlines, that they shall shutdown incase pressured for refunds. What if airline/s defaults before 31st March 2021 who is going to be responsible?

The Government needs to ensure appropriate assurances/guarantee from the airline/s concerned so 39

as to secure the monies, stated Jay Bhatia, Vice President TAAI. Agents pay advances into float accounts of the airlines and it is their right to claim the monies back for un-utilised funds/ non-ticketed balances lying with the airlines.

It is also important to note that there is an ambiguity on the credit shell through agents to remain upto 31st March 2021, thereafter refund needs to be paid.

The date for compying with refunds post that is not given, he added.

Further, Jyoti Mayal stated that DGCA has washed hands on the SOTO ticket refunds by airline/s.

There has been no direction on the refunds for groups and series bookings done by the agents with the airlines, she added. The Hon’able SC too has not commented on that at all.

BOUNCING FORWARD TOWARDS THE NEW NORMAL Each residence as luxurious as the last, Cheval Collection, is the luxury hospitality company with a beautiful collection of serviced apartment residences, townhouses and modern penthouses, across London.

Cheval Residences offers more than just a home and makes life blissfully easy for guests. One can indulge in the city's cosmopolitan culture, from chic districts and quirky apartments, in some of London’s most prestigious neighbourhoods or just enjoy the serenity of iconic views and world-famous parks, from their own stately Residence.

Cheval has continued to operate throughout the current crisis and has adapted procedures in line with government and health authority advice to maintain the highest level of cleanliness and hygiene, whilst offering the best service possible. We are pleased to advise our guests and partners that we are fully open and continuing operations at our Residences in London and in Edinburgh.

We remain as flexible as we can be for new bookings, and our reservations team are happy to talk through any requirements.

To prevent the spread of the Covid-19 virus, Cheval Collection has put in place the following set of procedures and standards at its Residences to limit the chance of exposure both for team members as well as valued guests and clients.

✓ Guests and staff should stay abreast of all current health and government advice, specifically NHS advice and UK government advice. Please note the advice for Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland differs from that issued in England.

✓ Weekly housekeeping service is offered to guests on a request basis. ✓ Coordination of any deliveries you choose to receive, whether that be grocery, restaurant deliveries or parcels

✓ Virtual direct contact with our teams using Cheval’s App (available for both Apple and Android devices) ✓ Cheval Residences continue to be vigilant with respect to guests staying with them and have procedures in place to identify and respond to anyone who reports symptoms commonly identified with COVID-19. ✓ Front desk staff have constant access to antibacterial hand sanitisers and infrared thermometers for regular temperature checks.

✓ Cheval Collection has also introduced hand sanitisers throughout its properties including on reception for guests, in apartment welcome packs, in bathrooms and in offices.

Hand sanitisers are now also available by keypad entry systems for staff. travbuzznews

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✓ Cheval has increased health and safety precautionary measures in its Residences and offices including increasing the frequency of cleaning so that public fixtures like door handles and lift switches are regularly sanitised. Apartments will be appropriately sealed to signify the rigorous apartment sanitisation process is complete. ✓ Daily meetings are held to facilitate ongoing updates and training for all operational staff to ensure guests are aware of social distancing when using lifts. ✓View our full Covid-19 fact sheet here. The Statement last reviewed on 24th September 2020.

Although this has required us all to adapt our behaviour, we know how much our visitors value the services we provide, and we are committed to maintaining our already high standards without compromising on hygiene or safety.

George Westwell, CEO Cheval Collection, says: 'Above all we are focusing on the customer, ensuring their safety and putting their mind at ease with flexibility and our thorough hygiene standards - we will continue to do so even after restrictions have been lifted. We have significant precautionary measures in place, in light of COVID-19, and our reservations department is also available to discuss bespoke requests with all current and future guests.'

With a range to settle you into your perfect London home at various prime locations, either for a blissful getaway or a relaxing extended stay, the collection includes eight serviced apartment residences across London and offers a stylish, spacious and self-contained alternative to hotels. Cheval Knightsbridge, Cheval Thorney Court, Cheval Gloucester Park, Cheval Hyde Park Gate, Cheval Calico House, Cheval Phoenix House, Cheval Harrington Court and finally their flagship residence Cheval Three Quays which is situated in the heart of the city of London, opposite River Thames.

Over 60% Indians are raring to travel

domestically within the next 6 months, reveals the InterMiles Consumer Sentiment Index InterMiles, a leading loyalty and rewards programme, has released its maiden ‘Consumer Sentiment Index Report’ showcasing insights and changing consumption patterns around travel. The report is based on responses received from more than 7,500 InterMilers across India.

Key Insights from the InterMiles Consumer Sentiment Index:

WHEN ARE INDIANS LOOKING TO TRAVEL? The pandemic may have closed borders, but aspiration & intent to travel in the near future still remains high.

Domestic Corroborating the revenge travel trend forecasted by travel experts and backing the government’s Vocal for Local initiative, 60% respondents said they would look at travelling domestically within the next 6 months, while 9% were ready to pack their bags within a month itself! Only 20% respondents are wary of travelling within India, with 14% saying they would not cross domestic borders without a vaccine, and a meagre 6% saying they do not currently have travel on their mind.

With Indians already undertaking safe hyperlocal travel and exploring local communities as they look to beat away lockdown blues and enjoy a refreshing breather, we can expect domestic travel to further pick-up pace once state and district borders increasingly open up.

International On the international front, respondents expressed hesitation when it comes to travel, with 33% opting not to travel until there’s a vaccine, and 10% saying they do not have international travel on their mind.

However, even though most international borders are currently closed or have restricted transit, 29% respondents expressed interest in travelling internationally within the next 6 months. An almost equal percentage of respondents – 28%, would rather hold off travel currently, and consider it in the next 6 to 12 months.

This hesitation regarding travel in the near future can be attributed to the current ambiguity and rapidly changing nature of travel policies and norms, across countries. Travellers would rather travel at a later stage once there is a clarity with regards to the exact nature of travel bubbles, visa policies and a certain level of assurance and confidence of not having to return mid-transit or being stranded in a foreign nation.

WHAT ARE THEIR REASONS TO CONSIDER TRAVELLING?

Business related travel & leisure travel with family stood out as the 2 main factors respondents would consider travelling for, whether domestic or international.

While business travel was always expected to be amongst the first to recover, close to 60% respondents want to travel – internationally and domestically – for leisure, relaxation with their family and friends. This can be credited to the fact that the lockdown has Indians – who have travbuzznews

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majorly been confined to their own homes and localities for close to six months – longing for a vacation, a short getaway, or even just the company of loved ones. Close to 20% respondents would choose to travel solo for a leisure getaway.

Over 50% would consider travelling for business purposes, while 29% respondents want to travel to their hometowns within the country.

A significant number would rather be close to home and only undertake travel to the city outskirts at this point in time, or have staycations within their city itself. 24% respondents are keen to undertake long distance self-drive journeys. As domestic state-borders open up, an increase in this trend is anticipated, further encouraged by its natural advantage of social distancing.

Predictably, respondents displayed caution forlarge-scale religious, sporting and cultural

EXERCISING CAUTION AND SAFETY ARE KEY EMERGING THEMES

events, with only 11% willing to travel domestically for such events and, an even lesser 5% willing to undertake international travel to attend these. With most events already moved to virtual platforms, we can expect to see this trend continue.

HOW AND WHERE ARE THEY CHOOSING TO TRAVEL? Whether for business or leisure, domestic destinations accessible by air are the most preferred.

A whopping 61% respondents would prefer to travel domestically by flights.

This confidence in air travel will come as a welcome relief to the aviation sector and ancillary industries.

The increasing caution displayed by potential Indian travellers is evident from the fact that a whopping 70% now deem securing travel insurance a necessity even while travelling domestically.

Earlier, travel insurance was predominantly preferred by outbound /international Indian travellers albeit as a secondary component of their travel. While in some instances, the fact that it was a pre-requisite element for certain visa and immigration protocols, acted as the sole purpose for travellers to purchase travel insurance. It remains to be seen if travel insurance is now made mandatory by national and state governments, with clauses that recompense passengers for bioaccidents as well.

With safety a priority, almost half (49%) respondents would rather travel by their own vehicle, as opposed to travelling by public transport. However, when it comes to public transport, air travel is the leading preference followed by hired vehicles and lastly buses & trains.

When it comes to accommodation, Indians have displayed maximum confidence in five-star properties or other luxury suites due to their preexisting trust in these brands or the transparency with which they showcase their sanitisation practices, assuring high standards of hygiene and safety. Homestays with family & friends due to familiarity and assurance of surroundings and co-habitants was the second most preferred accommodation choice.

On the international front, short-haul destinations are the dominant preference with 40% respondents preferring to visit countries neighboring India. Only 28% respondents would opt for long haul international travel. This can be attributed to caution in undertaking multiple-stops or layovers, that could potentially increase the risk of infection as well as the increased financial strain involved.

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Amazing Thailand participates as Destination Partner for Golf Corporate Team Challenge 2020 Thailand is one of the most popular choices and a favorite destination for Golf enthusiasts from all over the world. With beautiful landscaped golf courses in the capital city Bangkok, to the stunning beaches of Hua Hin, Krabi, Phuket, Rayong, Koh Samui and to the beautiful mountainous countryside of Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai Khao Yai etc. Thailand has an amazing assortment of golf courses with extra ordinary diversity of landscapes.

various golf courses, resorts and world-class golfing facilities that Thailand has to offer. TAT New Delhi Director, Vachirachai Sirisumpan welcomed the participants and also distributed prizes and invited them to Thailand for a great golfing holiday when international travel resumes.

Every year, a whopping 600,000 golfers visit this Golf paradise to try their hand at some of the 300 odd designer golf courses in Thailand. Many of the courses are designed by the biggest names in the business from Jack Nicklaus, Greg Norman, Robert Trent Jones, Peter Thomson, Phil Ryan to a host of American, Japanese, Australian and British designers. Thai designers too have taken to the trade in a big way and the Banyan Golf Club in Hua- Hin, the finest in all Thailand is designed by a Thai Golf architect.

Destination diversities and vast choices of golf courses along with modern facilities and excellent infrastructure has helped golfing trips increase significantly in Thailand. To further promote Thailand as a Golfers’ Paradise, TAT participated as destination partners for the Corporate Team Challenge 2020, organised by Golf Plus and SLW Golf. The tournament took place on September 26, at ITC Golf Course in Manesar, Gurgaon. 72 avid golfers participated in the 18-hole tournament that However, no mention of Thailand’s golf experience is complete without mention of the caddies. What included top Corporates & CEOs. makes a golfing experience in Thailand unique & With extensive branding on event backdrops, special is that most of the golf caddies are women promotional material, golf balls, and on-course who are extremely professional, talented and of presence, the event was a great way to reach out course warm and hospitable. to keen golfers in India and talk to them about the travbuzznews

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