TRAV BUZZ NEWS Jan Feb 2022

TRAVBUZZNEWS

Vol 3 | Issue 3

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| Jan Feb 2022

BUDGET 2022 SPECIAL ISSUE

? ? ? ? ?

TRAVEL HOSPITALITY

TOUR OPERATORS

MICE

INBOUND

KERALA TRAVEL MART

AVANI HOTELS

TBO TEK LIMITED

deferred to May 5-8, 2022 due to Covid surge

Reimagine Krabi with the Launching in Koh Lanta

is now tbo.com

APPLY NOW

EMAIL TO : Pr@miceaffairs.com

TRAVBUZZ NEWS

Editor’s Note

T

his issue contains industry reactions to Indian Budget 2022 announcements along with positive news floating in from various parts of the globe announcing border reopening. Most awaited period for travel and tourism industry is going to be back very soon.

Hello Readers Presenting you another version of Trav Buzz News, your favourite travel and tourism industry magazine.

Cases in India are back to earlier figures, creating the platform for business to start back. Even Government of India has eased the procedures for incoming passengers from foreign land. For outbound various countries have eased their rules, starting from Thailand, Singapore and even some parts of Europe. So travel is set to bounce back strongly as per industry experts.

On the other hand, full commercial flights are still on hold from India. Hopefully March seems to be the right fit for travel restart. Domestic travel is already on with full force. At most of the places getting weekend rooms is still a task.

We are also planning a series of events in coming months for travel tourism and hospitality sector so as to provide a platform to reconnect, realign and re collaborate.

Sachin Monacha Check out these amazing pieces of news and let us know your comments via email to news@travbuzznews.com

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Contents Avani Hotels Reimagine Krabiwith the Launching in Koh Lanta

The Principality of Monaco Highlights its Tourism Opportunities at World Expo 2020

Thomas Cook India expands presence in the Capital to target strong growth potential of Delhi-NCR

Meliá Phuket Mai Khao Celebrates Opening

IceWarp Expands its Footprint in Middle East IATO writes to Prime Minister seeking his help to avert financial crisis facing the industry

TAKE YOUR LOVE TO THE STARS AND BEYOND AT FINOLHU Avani Muscat Hotel Launches in Oman Capital Global tourism experienced a 4% upturn in 2021 TBO Tek Limited is now tbo.com www.travbuzznews.com

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Avani Hotels Reimagine Krabiwith the Launching in Koh Lanta Following the successful launch of Avani Ao Nang Cliff Krabi Resort, Avani Hotels is pleased to add Avani+ Koh Lanta Resort (www.avanihotels.com/koh-lanta-krabi) in Krabi into the brand’s collection that offers back to nature and island escape experience. Avani+ Koh Lanta Resort debuts 92 spacious guest rooms, suites and private pool villas decked in Melayu motives and nestled in the pristine peninsula overlooking the Andaman Sea’s breath-taking sunset scene.

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he resort redesign is led by a Thai-based PIA design studio that draws inspiration from the heritage of Sriraya or the Lanta Old Town—incorporating the Thai roots as the base of the resort's concept and blending the history of Moken or Sea Gypsy, Muslim and Chinese origin.

All signifies a harmonious community once at the head of a trading port that connects Krabi to Penang and Singapore.

The renewed 92 guest rooms and private pool villas incorporate the hand-drawn wallpaper of Melayu motifs that derives from the traditional pattern in the Malaysian woodcarving introduced to the Thai people from the trading days and classic chinoiserie floor tiles.

The all-new Avani Room offers travellers three categories of a pool view, pool access or sea view that has been wholly entirely redesigned with an Avani in-room pantry that provides holiday treats. The private pool villas present the ultimate sanctuary that overlooks the glorious sunset over the Andaman Sea that offers guests a blend of reimagined Thai style living spaces with

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TRAVBUZZ NEWS modern amenities.

The crème de la crème of the resort is The Grand Ocean Residence perched atop the private peninsula, featuring a private garden area that is perfect for intimate wedding celebrations an exclusive villa host. A living room, dining and kitchen facilities are also available to complete an ideal group vacation.

Avani+ Koh Lanta will introduce a reimagined three new dining and drinking spots to satisfy the curious palates. Pantry by Avani is a great place to start the day with freshly brewed coffee and pastries, with chill café style indoor settings that open up into an outdoor garden. The main poolside restaurant – The Cliff, provides a range of fresh catch of the day, sourced from the local fishing villages in line with the resort's commitment to sustainable dining prepared with the best herbs and ingredients sourced from the island's organic market. Sitting along with the rocky beach, the Reggae Bar is Koh Lanta's most famous sunset, cocktails and entertainment spot. The bar showcases unparalleled views of the Andaman Ocean, featuring a glamorous sunset vibe and a romantic after-dark ambience with upbeat tunes.

The unspoiled nature of Koh Lanta is a gem for wellness and fit-nature traveller, starting with the renewed AvaniFit Gym concept that offers the latest in exercise equipment and a boot-camp program to kick the cardio into high gear. After a day of workout on the beach or from island-hops, guests can opt for a refresh with AvaniSpa that offers uncomplicated treatment that hits the right spot.

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he Lanta island is just 70 km south of Krabi International Airport and accessible via a 15-minute ferry crossing.

Koh Lanta doesn't have a shortage of play days with nature ranging from getting sun-kissed on the beautiful beaches around the island to hopping from the 50 islands from the doorstep of Koh Lanta archipelago or enjoying a slow boat ride in the Tung Yee Peng Mangrove forest.

A dive in the crystal water in Koh Haa is recommended for the more adventurous traveller, followed by a sunset cruise with a bottle of bubbly.

Avani Hotels & Resorts currently operates over 30 properties in the Asia Pacific, the Middle East, Africa, and Europe. The brand has a strong pipeline of new properties in exciting destinations such as Vietnam and the Maldives, including the upcoming launch of another Avani+ in Khao Lak, Thailand.

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Thomas Cook India expands presence in the Capital to target strong growth potential of Delhi-NCR

Opens new Gold Circle Partner (Franchise) outlet at Laxmi Nagar, Delhi Extends consumer access in Delhi-NCR to 13 outlets

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homas Cook (India) Ltd., India’s leading integrated travel services company inaugurated a new Gold Circle Partner (franchise) outlet in Delhi. This expansion augments Thomas Cook India’s distribution and reach in Delhi-NCR to 13 consumer access centres: 6 owned branches and 7 Gold Circle Partner (franchise) outlets. In addition to serving the financial hub of Laxmi Nagar, the new outlet will serve as a hub for nearby residential areas of Nirman Vihar, Karkardooma, Preet Vihar as well.

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In the new age of travel (Covid-era), customers are understandably seeking the guidance and reassurance of holiday experts to navigate through the complexities and changes in travel and health protocols. Thomas Cook India’s internal survey reiterates the same, with a significant 77% respondents stating that they require guidance of a holiday expert. To help customers with their travel plans and requirements, Thomas Cook India has set up a new Gold Circle Partner franchise outlet at Laxmi Nagar, Delhi.

Additionally, to build consumer confidence in travel, Thomas Cook India has launched “Assured” Safe Travel Program - developed in association with Apollo Clinics that ensures best in class

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TRAVBUZZ NEWS travel safety protocols covering every distribution, delivery, and partner touch points in the travel ecosystem. “TravShield” an upgraded safety commitment of only vaccinated staff and co-passengers among many other precautions, ensuring traveller safety in the pandemic era.

Manral is a veteran with

“Delhi-NCR has always been a key

over 25 years in the travel

market for us at Thomas Cook India, and we continue to see a strong travel desire from the region. We are delighted to announce the launch of

CONTACT DETAILS Thomas Cook (India) Limited Shop No. S-10, 2 nd Floor, V3S Mall, Near Nirman Vihar Metro Station, Laxmi Nagar, Delhi – 110092 Ph: 011 - 49937333 Email: gcp.laxminagar@thomascook.in

Circle Partner, Mr. D.S.

and tourism sector.

His extensive network will serve to strengthen Thomas Cook India’s

our new Gold Circle Partner franchise

presence in this growing

supporting our customers across

Delhi-NCR to plan their

outlet at Laxmi Nagar’s financial hub. market and thereby assist our customers from We intend to accelerate demand while segments including families, couples, group of friends/young professionals, business travellers, local trade associations, and more.”

Consumers are showcasing a strong pent-up demand and with vaccine acceptancy, consumers from Delhi-NCR are displaying a strong travel desire for domestic favourites like Goa, Andamans, Kashmir, HimachalPradesh, North-East; international destinations like Maldives, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sri Lanka, Switzerland,France, Turkey and Egypt. Key segments driving leisure demand from Delhi-NCR include families, couples,group of friends/young professionals, and business travellers. Culture and heritage, adventure/outdoor, culinary experiences, and spa/ wellness are top preferred holiday options for consumers from Delhi-NCR.

He added, “Our Gold

Mr. Rajeev Kale, President Country Head – Holidays, MICE, Visa, Thomas Cook (India) Limited said,

perfect holiday.

We extend a warm welcome to our Delhi based customers. Our travel experts at our Lakshmi Nagar outlet will assist them plan their much awaited holidays for 2022.”

Thomas Cook’s Gold Circle Partner outlet at Laxmi Nagar in Delhi, offers consumers end-to-end travel solutions with an array of travel and travel related services, including: International Domestic Holidays (Group Tours, Personalised holidays, Cruises, etc.), Value Added Services like Travel Insurance; Visa Services, etc.

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ICEWARP Expands its Footprint in Middle East ~IceWarp’s unified email and collaboration solutions integrate with common enterprise solutions, simplifying work across a business~

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n a bid to expand its business globally IceWarp, a leader for developing email communication and collaboration solutions, has set-up a new office in Dubai. The company is now offering a solution ecosystem that transforms how teams share information online and optimizes business processes through its streamlined and seamless team collaboration tools in the UAE. At present IceWarp has offices in Czechia, USA, Germany, India and Russia.

The sudden, rapid shift to remote and hybrid working scenarios in recent years has made IceWarp’s family of applications highly sought after, owing to its smooth interface and ability to be used alongside common enterprise collaboration software.

IceWarp delivers an innovative, cost effective, all-in-one collaboration platform consisting of an entire family of apps that offer real-time collaboration tools, simplified sharing options, and the smooth integration of various virtual office functions. By integrating everything users need under a single login – email, TeamChat, and storage, IceWarp is able to provide users with a superior communication experience at work. The company has witnessed an unprecedented growth of its collaboration solution among new and existing customers during the pandemic. Individuals using standard email offerings are adopting the collaborative platform, and customers looking for a cost- effective alternative to solution providers like G Suite and Office 365 are choosing IceWarp as their preferred enterprise for business emails and collaboration.

“ PRAMOD SHARDA, CEO, IceWarp India and Middle East

We at IceWarp are committed to providing businesses with an affordable, seamlessly integrated and easy to use communications solution that covers all aspects of business collaboration and productivity. Growing enterprises in a business hub like the UAE can benefit greatly from using our solution and we are excited to help them make the switch to a world of uncomplicated, secure, and convenient communications. Our unique all-in-one email and Collaboration Suite helps larger organizations achieve optimum teamwork without any hindrances or security breaches. We have been providing our solution across industries like Pharma and healthcare, BFSI, BPO’s, manufacturing, retail, and more.,”

Furthermore, the company is also planning to broaden its product portfolio with new added features and expand its business in other parts of the world. IceWarp aims at continuous and comprehensive innovations considering current trends and requirements of its customers worldwide. IceWarp’s services enhance remote working and collaboration, like business email, TeamChat for project teams, real-time office document collaboration, online meetings and more.

IceWarp’s collaborative solution also prioritizes an organization’s email security by incorporating one of the best solutions in the industry powered by CISCO Ironport to offer ATP solutions to their customers as an additional layer of security. With concerns around the safety and security of data reaching an all-time high owing to increasing security threats during the pandemic, a secure solution is vital to ensure data safety on an organizational level.

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BUDGET

Quote by

Mr. Madhavan Menon, Managing Director, Thomas Cook India Group

“

The Travel & Tourism sector has been a key contributor to the GDP and the Union Budget offers the government a significant opportunity to create a stimulus towards revival.

The last 2 years have highlighted the power of the domestic market and towards unlocking the full potential of domestic tourism, we look forward to Budgetary focus on infrastructure development, technology and health-safety across airports/aviation, road, rail and waterways.

India’s waterways offer a large underleveraged potential that includes sea and river cruising opportunities and cascading employment benefits to the catchment areas.

Empowering our global embassies, export (zero-rated) status to the inbound tour business and deeper marketing investment is much needed to kick start inbound demand and ensure competitive viability when compared to our neighbours in the region.

We look forward to the Government’s announcement of granting Industry status, rationalisation of taxes (including a complete GST tax holiday, exemption of TCS levy on overseas holiday packages and reduction in indirect taxes), removal of SEIS benefit capping of Rs. 5 cr and introduction of soft loans with favourable terms as a stimulant to enable the sector get back on its feet. This will equally harness its force multiplier impact towards GDP contribution, employment generation/ skill development - much needed as the Country heads towards recovery, revival and growth.

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MICE CEO,s FORUM

Community of Sellers, Buyers and Suppliers EMAIL TO :

Managed by

PR@MICEAFFAIRS.COM 14

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IATO writes to Prime Minister seeking his help to avert financial crisis facing the industry

IATO

Rajiv Mehra, President IATO

, the apex inbound tourism body has written to Prime Minister, seeking his help to overcome unprecedented financial crisis facing the industry since March 2020, which has further been worsened by recent postponement of international flights on account of recent wave. It has asked for relaxation in traveling norms and financial aid to the tour operators to remain viable till revival of the industry.

In the letter, Rajiv Mehra, President IATO has sought PM’s help on relaxation on 7 days quarantine for the fully vaccinated international travellers coming from non-high risk countries and have uploaded a negative COVID-19 RT-PCR report of the testing done within 72 hrs prior to undertaking the journey. Such tourists to be screened on arrival and upon no symptoms being allowed to undertake the journey. After thermal screening is done upon arrival at the airport in India and no symptoms are found, they should be allowed to leave the airport .This will encourage some international travellers to travel to India and tour operators might have some business so important for survival.

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Further, IATO urges Government to provide financial support to small and medium tour operators to tide over this crisis. This can be done based on the turnover recorded by the operator in 2019-20 and 75% of the wages paid in the financial year 2019-20, to be given as one time grant. This one time grant would not only help stop closure of tour operators offices but also save lakhs of jobs.

It would be pertinent to add here that of all the sectors in Hospitality industry, inbound tourism is the worst affected and the tour operators and allied sectors have collectively lost a more than 1 lakh crore rupee of revenue and consequently thousands of jobs have been lost Some substantial relief is therefore sought from the government.

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TAKE YOUR LOVE TO THE STARS AND BEYOND AT FINOLHU A ROMANTIC ADVENTURE LIKE NO OTHER WITH FINOLHU’S UPGRADED BEACH BUBBLE EXPERIENCE

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pending the night under the stars in a state-of-the-art Beach Bubble on a secluded private beach in the Maldives is a truly magical bucket list experience for the romantically adventurous. Finolhu is delighted to announce an exciting new upgrade to its exclusive Dream Eclipse Experience; with the introduction of its newly upgraded Beach Bubble for guests to take that unique romantic experience to the stars and beyond.

As the only Bubble on a secluded beach in the Maldives, the Dream Eclipse Experience’s newly upgraded bubble now features three connected bubble rooms, with separate space for the bedroom, living room and bathroom.

Located along the sandbank from the Crab Shack - away from the main island of the resort, for that undeniable feeling of total seclusion - the new set-up includes an outdoor bathtub for a romantic al-fresco soak whilst being serenaded by the gentle lapping of the waves on the private beach.

Constructed using state-of-the-art, high-tech polyester fabric, the Beach Bubble creates a UV-protected, fully waterproof, climate-controlled cocoon with uninterrupted views of the private tropical beach, the mesmerising ocean and endless sky beyond. The interiors feature custom-fitted wooden floors and bespoke furnishings, including a four-poster bed with the finest linen for an idyllic blend of earthly comfort and heavenly views.

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The Principality of Monaco Highlights its Tourism Opportunities at World Expo 2020

The presence of Monaco as an exhibiting country at the World Expo 2020 has proven a great opportunity to promote jointly the key strengths of the Principality in the areas of luxury tourism, hospitality, entertainment, gaming, real estate, shopping and business tourism.

In line with the theme of Expo 2020 – ‘Connecting Minds, Creating the Future’, the architecture of Monaco Pavilion surprises and fascinates. It is inspired by a kaleidoscope that incorporates the "Rock" of Monaco and reflects the many facets of the Principality: its characteristics, its professions, its actions, its multiple perspectives, its diversity and the incredible amount of activities or opportunities

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is spread over different levels that are full of surprises. It is an invitation to discover, observe and interact with an environment of cultural resources, research and know-how.

Right before entering the pavilion, the visitors will be immersed in the "History of Monaco". Moving further, the visitors will enjoy two main exhibition worlds. The first, named as "the Garden of Opportunities”, which showcases projects and high-quality pioneering work, made in Monaco and internationally. It will www.travbuzznews.com

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look like a kaleidoscopic fantasy garden that comes out of one’s imagination. All facilities of the Pavilion are interactive, with diverse interfaces that offer multiple forms of engagement to interested and curious visitors. The visit of the "Garden of Opportunities" will end with a unique experience in the Kaleidoscope, where visitors will discover the identity of “Monaco 360°, a world of opportunities”, through the arts and culture, science and sport, tourism and hospitality, history and exploration, extensions of its territory, gastronomy and tradition.

The Principality also taken part in the Expo to leverage their presence and to provide the visitors with a memorable experience!

World Expo 2020 is a global event linking innovation, technology, art and culture to offer a great experience, currently being hosted at Dubai, United Arab Emirates (Dubai). www.travbuzznews.com

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Meliá Phuket Mai Khao Celebrates Opening GUEST SUITES AND VILLAS Meliá Phuket Mai Khao’s contemporary, light-filled and spacious Mediterranean-inspired accommodations - with a focus on simple, clean lines and indoor-outdoor living - comprise 30 one-bedroom suites and 70 one-bedroom villas.

The resort has three accommodation categories. Each features a single bedroom and is differentiated by an anchoring amenity -- be it an outdoor bathtub, a private plunge pool or a wellness arrangement.

Meliá Phuket Mai Khao, a wellness-inspired resort that fronts Phuket’s longest stretch of sand with a chilled-out beach club and private pool villas has opened on Thailand’s largest island.

The resort is the second five-star property to be launched in Thailand under Spanish hotel group Meliá Hotels International as part of a brand roll-out in key destinations across the Kingdom.

Situated on secluded Mai Khao beach, commanding eight acres of Phuket’s northwestern coastline on the Andaman Sea, Meliá Phuket Mai Khao opened its doors for business on December 1.

The 30-suite and 70-villa resort, owned by residential real estate developer

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Phuket Villa Group, is a 15-minute drive to Phuket International Airport and near an array of attractions including Mai Khao Marine Turtle Foundation, Sirinat National Park, and Wat Phra Thong temple.

The resort’s design melds traditional and contemporary Thai aesthetics with a smattering of Mediterranean accents and uses a neutral palette of colours to complement Mai Khao’s sandy shoreline. High ceilings and decorative metal screens make the most of the natural surrounds and sunny, tropical weather.

All of the suites and villas feature outdoor bathtubs, open-air showers and outdoor terraces to take advantage of Phuket’s tropical climate, which averages 28 degrees Celsius year round.

Exquisite gardens and fixtures such as white stucco exterior walls also ensure secluded enclaves and the utmost privacy.

The 78sqm suites are complemented by cabanas and the 85sqm one-bedroom villas have private plunge pools.

At the top of the accommodation scale, the 15 wellness villas each feature an open-air Vitamin C shower, ultrasonic essential oil

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TRAVBUZZ NEWS diffuser, GermGuardian air purifier, Tempur-Pedic pillows, aromatic salts for the outdoor bathtub, a fit ball and yoga mat. A highlight of staying at a wellness villa is a daily 60-minute massage.

Mod-cons in all of the accommodations include individually controlled air-conditioning, 43-inch LCD TV with satellite channels, Bluetooth speaker, Nespresso coffee maker and gourmet capsules and more.

The minibar has healthy snacks such as energy bars on request. Trays and tissue boxes made from banana leaves are among sustainable items in the suites and villas.

DINING

The resort’s diverse dining landscape comprises four outlets under the stewardship of culinary director Luca Mancini and adds a dash of Mediterranean flavor to Phuket’s culinary scene.

Adjacent to a beach pool framed with cabanas and sun lounges, the Gaia Beach Club celebrates Spain’s

famed gastronomy by serving Mediterranean and fusion cuisine from an open kitchen and a creative cocktail selection from a long bar.

A warm and intimate setting adorned with timber finishes, SASA is an elegant all-day dining restaurant that specialises in international and Thai cuisine.

SASA offers a healthy, freshly made breakfast and delectable Thai set lunches and dinners.

The Elyxr Café features a spacious lounge area with comfortable sofas and a selection of books and serves coffee and tea.

The Pool Bar is a swim-up affair at the centre of the resort that serves a range of refreshments including fresh juices, smoothies and cocktails.

SPA, WELLNESS AND RECREATION

Privately tucked away behind the lobby and Elyxr Café, Meliá’s

signature YHI Spa is 300sqm and home to five treatment rooms. In addition to its extensive menu of massages, facials, body scrubs and wraps, spa therapists also provide poolside and in-villa treatments.

The resort will offer wellness packages that include healthy menus and freshly squeezed juices as well as activities such as meditation, yoga, and walks and cycling amid stunning natural scenery.

The fitness center is equipped with treadmills, ellipticals, exercise bikes, and weights machines.

The kids club Kidsdom has workshops to keep youngsters entertained and the resort also provides a babysitting service.

Recreational pursuits on offer range from horse riding on the beach, to scuba diving at Racha Yai, Koh Dok Mai, Phi Phi Island and Shark Point, to golf at the nearby Blue Canyon Country Club.

MICE FACILITIES The resort’s conference facilities include a grand ballroom and two additional multi-function rooms at 231sqm. The Grand Ballroom totals 131sqm and caters to up to 100 guests for a standing cocktail reception or 88 guests for a sit-down dinner. The two adjacent

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TRAVBUZZ NEWS multipurpose rooms are each 47sqm that seat up to 16 guests for a boardroom meeting.

The resort’s event planners provide customized catering to suit any occasion. Mini mindfulness sessions also enhance the wellbeing of attendees.

“

Elsewhere in Thailand, Meliá Koh Samui debuted in January 2020 with a nautical theme underscored by boat suites made from refurbished merchant vessels. Meliá Chiang Mai is slated to open in April 2022 with a rooftop bar featuring two bars connected by a glass bridge. INNSiDE by Meliá Bangkok Sukhumvit, the first property of its brand in Thailand, with 176 guestrooms, is due to open 2023.

Meliá Phuket Mai Khao’s debut marks such an exciting time for Phuket, signaling our genuine optimism for the future of tourism on Thailand’s largest island,” said Mr Maetapong Upatising, Phuket Villa Group’s Managing Director.

“

The team and I are thrilled we could bring such a significant hotel debut to fruition during these unprecedented times and we’re delighted with the interest in our resort so far despite the difficulties stemming from the global pandemic,” said Ms Magdalena Martorell, Meliá Phuket Mai Khao’s General Manager.

“

With its distinct focus on guest wellbeing, Meliá Phuket Mai Khao brings Meliá’s sunny Spanish hospitality and passion for service to Phuket, as well as stringent health and safety measures to combat COVID-19,” said Mr Ignacio Martin, Area Managing Director South East Asia of Meliá Hotels International.

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Pre Budget Quote By Mr. Vishal Suri, Managing Director, SOTC Travel

W

e look forward to the upcoming Union Budget’s consideration of further economic relief for the industry at-large with lower taxes and incentives to help boost the road to recovery.

The industry appreciates the Government’s support to enable revival and strengthen the sector for which we anticipate a complete rationalization of GST, reducing/ eliminating the TCS on outbound travel, and eliminating the 5 crore capping for the SEIS benefit.

Rationalization of tax structure will help reduce complexities and will enable the industry to focus and accelerate

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“

businesses further. Eliminating the 5 crore capping for the SEIS benefit would provide much needed impetus to post Covid revival of the tourism industry and promote employment generation.

More importantly to boost domestic travel and tourism, incentives should be offered to Corporates for organizing meetings and conference in India through partial or full tax exemptions to the corporates on the expenses incurred.

We seek assistance from the Government in enhancing the structural transformation that is needed to build a stronger, more sustainable and resilient tourism industry. We need to focus on the tourism sector as a sustainable engine for economic growth and development. The Government should reboot the tourism economy on a stronger, fairer and more sustainable footing.

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Avani Muscat Hotel Launches in Oman Capital

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vani Hotels & Resorts has announced the launch of Avani Muscat Hotel (www.avanihotels.com/muscat), its newest property in the Middle East and the upbeat, contemporary brand’s first property in the Sultanate of Oman. Located in Seeb, a prime residential area at the heart of Muscat’s westward growth, the new property benefits from superb airport and city access making it a convenient base for business travellers, digital nomads and leisure travellers alike.

Blending heritage-inspired touches and sleek contemporary style, the property’s 161 guest rooms are a masterclass in subtle design. Soothing yet stimulating environments, empathetic to the needs of today’s hyper connected traveller, have

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been created with natural materials, bespoke décor and Omani tones.

In response to global travellers’ evolving working behaviours, in-room workspaces feature flexible configuration options and easy access to the smart power panel outfitted with multiple plugs and USB ports.

On the residential side, 45 studios and one, two- and three-bedroom serviced apartments bring Avani’s fresh, forward-looking aesthetic to one of Muscat’s most dynamic neighbourhoods.

At 128-square metres, the three-bedroom apartments are the largest in the inventory and are perfectly suited

for long-stay guests and families with children who can take full advantage of AvaniKids, the hotel’s kids’ club and pool.

Flavourful dining options include Trisis, a nature-inspired all-day dining restaurant with indoor tree features and specialising in Omani, Arabic and international cuisines, and Avani’s easy gourmet grab-and-go concept Pantry, known for its honest, nutritious meals and www.travbuzznews.com

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specialty coffee. The alfresco Patio Bar offers refreshments and the perfect spot to kick back overlooking the turquoise swimming pool whilst taking in the heartbeat of the city.

Dedicated exercise and health club amenities are available at AvaniFit providing space to get in shape or unwind at the sauna or steam room.

Avani Muscat is adjacent to the Al Araimi Boulevard Mall and is just a five-minute drive from the Mall of Muscat, home to a spectacular 8,000 square metre aquarium and countless shopping, dining and entertainment options. Guests can also explore Seeb’s famous traditional souq, a sprawling blend of markets offering everything from spices to gold to Omani embroidery.

Thanks to the brand’s Travel Blog (www.avanihotels.com/blog) for culturally-curious travellers, Avani Muscat residents and guests have access to wanderlust-inducing destinations, Instagrammable spots and insightful guides curated by local culture experts.

Outdoor-minded visitors to the city can embark on marine tours and dive charters from the nearby Al Mouj Marina or work on their putting or swing at Al Mouj Golf, Oman’s first PGA links golf course designed by Greg Norman.

The Royal Opera House, an architectural marvel offering a strong calendar of world-class music events, and the iconic Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque are both a short drive away. Farther afield but still well within a day-trip distance from the hotel are Al Alam Palace, one of the active royal residences that dates back 200 years, and The National Museum of Oman showcasing the rich and diverse culture of the Sultanate.

Avani Muscat is well positioned to become one of the city’s leading conference and event venues, with a spacious and stylish ballroom able to accommodate large-scale social celebrations such as weddings and banquets, and boasts high ceilings, an outdoor pre-function area, a private Majilis and plenty of parking.

As well as being one of Southeast Asia’s fastest-growing hotel brands, Avani Hotels and Resorts (www.avanihotels.com) is well-established in the Middle East, with three properties in Dubai in key tourist and business areas: upmarket Palm Jumeirah, historic Deira and Ibn Battuta on the city’s main Sheikh Zayed Road. The brand recently announced the further expansion of its footprint in the region into Bahrain with Avani Bilaj Al Jazayer Bahrain Resort scheduled for a 2024 opening.

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Global tourism experienced A 4% UPTURN IN 2021

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ompared to 2020 (415 million versus 400 million). However, international tourist arrivals (overnight visitors) were still 72% below the pre-pandemic year of 2019, , according to preliminary estimates by UNWTO. This follows on from 2020, the worst year on record for tourism, when international arrivals decreased by 73%.

The first 2022 issue of the UNWTO World Tourism Barometer indicates that rising rates of vaccination, combined with easing of travel restrictions due to increased cross-border coordination and protocols, have all helped release pent up demand.

International tourism rebounded moderately during the second half of 2021, with international arrivals down 62% in both the third and fourth quarters compared to pre-pandemic levels. According to limited data, international arrivals in December were 65% below 2019 levels. The full impact of the Omicron variant and surge in COVID-19 cases is yet to be seen.

Slow and uneven recovery The pace of recovery remains slow and uneven across world regions due to varying degrees of mobility restrictions, vaccination rates and traveler confidence. Europe and the Americas recorded the strongest results in 2021 compared to 2020 (+19% and +17% respectively), but still both 63% below pre-pandemic levels.

By subregion, the Caribbean saw the best performance (+63% above 2020, though 37% below 2019), with some destinations coming close to, or exceeding pre-pandemic levels.

Southern Mediterranean Europe (+57%) and Central America (+54%) also enjoyed a significant rebound but remain 54% and 56% down on 2019 levels respectively. North America (+17%) and Central Eastern Europe (+18%) also climbed above 2020 levels.

Meanwhile, Africa saw a 12% increase in arrivals in 2021 compared to 2020, though this is still 74% below 2019. In the Middle East arrivals declined 24%

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compared to 2020 and 79% over 2019. In Asia and the Pacific arrivals were still 65% below 2020 levels and 94% when compared to pre-pandemic values as many destinations remained closed to non-essential travel.

Increased tourism spending The economic contribution of tourism in 2021 (measured in tourism direct gross domestic product) is estimated at US$1.9 trillion, above the US$1.6 trillion in 2020, but still well below the pre-pandemic value of US$ 3.5 trillion. Export revenues from international tourism could exceed US$700 billion in 2021, a small improvement over 2020 due to higher spending per trip, but less than half the US$1.7 trillion recorded in 2019.

Average receipts per arrival are estimated to reach US$1,500 in 2021, up from US$1,300 in 2020. This is due to large pent-up savings and longer lengths of stay, as well as higher transport and accommodation prices. France and Belgium reported comparatively smaller declines in tourism expenditure with -37% and -28%, respectively over 2019.

Saudi Arabia (-27%) and Qatar (-2%) also posted somewhat better results in 2021. www.travbuzznews.com

TRAVBUZZ NEWS

TBO TEK LIMITED IS NOW tbo.com

TBO Tek Limited (the “Company”)unveils a new expression of customer-centric brand name,tag line and logo tbo.com, a leading global travel distribution platform(Source: report titled “Travel and Tourism Industry Report” issued

by PGA Labs), has unveiled its new expression of customer-centric brand name, logo, tag line and brand identity as TBO.com.The customer-centricbrand name and tag line is now tbo.com -Travel Simplified. tbo.com has a global playbook operating in 100+ countries and their platform supports payments in 56 currenciesand operates in 11 languages, as of October 31, 2021.

In India, the Company is ranked second in Billing and Settlement Plan (“BSP”) India with an overall BSP India revenue market share of 12.12% in calendar year 2021 (calendar year to date August 2021) which increased from 8.79% in calendar year 2020. (Source: International Air Transport Association).

The Company simplifies the business of travel for suppliers such as hotels, airlines, car rentals, transfers, cruises, insurance, rail and others (collectively, “Suppliers”); and buyers that include retail buyers such as travel agencies and independent travel advisors (“Retail Buyers”). Its enterprise buyers include tour operators, travel management companies,online travel companies, super-apps and loyalty apps (“Enterprise Buyers”, together with Retail Buyers, “Buyers”).

Speaking on the occasion, Ankush Nijhawan, Joint Managing Director, tbo.com, said, “We have unveiled a new expression of customer-centric identity to showcase the young feel of the Company and the vibrancy of the organisation. We want to leveragean active digital presence in the global travel industry to serve our existing and new customers with industrypractices and services.”

Speaking on the occasion, Gaurav Bhatnagar, Joint Managing Director, tbo.com said, “We are happy to introduce a new expression of our customer-centric www.travbuzznews.com

identity whichwill further help us to establish the brand in the sector and among our peers.

We will supplement this enhanced brand identity by introducing newer technology and services for our customers.& tbo.com’stwo-sided technology platform enables Suppliers and Buyers to transact seamlessly with each other. It operates at the nucleus of the global travel and tourism market that stood at US$9.2 trillion in 2019, aggregating supply and demand and connecting Suppliers to Buyers and vice-versa.(Source: report titled “Travel and Tourism Industry Report” issued by PGA Labs). tbo.com platform allows the large and fragmented base of Suppliers to display and market inventory to, and set prices for, the large and fragmented global Buyer base. For Buyers, the platform is an integrated, multi-currency and multi-lingual one-stop solution that helps them discover and book travel for destinations worldwide, across various travel segments such as leisure, corporate and religious travel, among others. tbo.com has an asset-light business model with operating leverage and strong cash generation. It uses data as corporate currency and pursues value-accretive acquisitions. The platform creates network effect with interlinked flywheels to enhance value proposition for partners. TBO’s leadership team and its founders have experience and expertise. The Board of Directors comprises of experienced members. tbo.com plans to raise funds through an initial public offering (the “IPO”) aggregating up to Rs. 2,100 crore comprising a fresh issue of equity shares (of face value of Re. 1) aggregating up to Rs. 900 crore; and an Offer for Sale (OFS) aggregating up to Rs. 1,200 crore.

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TRAVBUZZ NEWS

IATO Thanks IHCL for rolling out the Promo Code Special Rates for IATO Members Mr. Rajiv Mehra, President, Indian Association of Tour Operators thanked Mr. Puneet Chhatwal, MD & CEO and the entire team at The Indian Hotels Company Ltd. for rolling out the Taj Hotels Promo Code Special Rates for IATO Members, which were announced at the 36th IATO Annual Convention in Gandhinagar.

Concept of Members specific rates for all IATO Members with promo code was raised with the 4 major Hotel Chains during the panels discussion on: "Hotels in the New Normals” on 17th December 2021 at the 36th IATO Convention and then was taken forward by IATO. IHCL while taking the lead rolled out the Promo Code Special Rates for the IATO Members yesterday. This could happen with the tireless work done by key officials of IHCL who were involved and they finalised all modalities in one month time and created special package for the IATO members who wish to avail these Promo Code Special Rates.

Rajiv Mehra

President,IATO

Terms and Conditions for the Promo Code Special Rates for the IATO members for the Taj, SeleQtions and Vivanta hotels, have been announced. Each member has been given a Unique Agency Code and booking can be done on line without any hindrances to the IATO members. Promo Code Special Rates are exclusively for INBOUND BUSINESS ONLY and NOT VALID for DOMESTIC LEISURE and are only for FITs. Members who have contracted rates will have access to those rates based on their individual negotiations, relationships and buying power and will have choice whether to use Promo Code Rates or contracted special rates or the bar rates.

These rates are valid with immediate effect till 31st March 2023.

As of now the Promo Code Special Rates have been rolled out for the Active Members and in next 30 days it will be rolled for Allied Member Tour Operators and Travel Agents as member is being given Unique Agency id.

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The terms and conditions especially the Cancellation Policy and the Force Majeure Clause which have been worked out by IHCL in consultation with IATO, are very much favourable for the IATO members and are industry friendly. This will help all our small and medium tour operators to use IHCL properties for their clients and specially those who do not have special rate with IHCL. We are sure this will benefit both IATO members and the IHCL and will make their relationship stronger than ever, said Mr. Rajiv Mehra.

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TRAVBUZZ NEWS

Budget Expectations As President of TAAI, I very strongly believe there are several aspects which can be expected in the upcoming budget session to support the entire sector holistically ‘Travel Tourism & Hospitality’ which will help in making this sector survive, revive & economically support India to become the largest hub for the world. For this, it is extremely important for both the central and state governments to work in tandem to facilitate this sector & support it to be included in the concurrent list to get Industry Status to make it more structured.

The government should strive to increase the disposable income of the middle classes so that discretionary spending will rise. Concrete steps should be taken to improve the cash flows and reduce the working capital burden on start-ups, existing MSMEs & SMEs. Access to easy credit, reducing income tax rate & GST tax rate, abolishment of TCS & wage support with ease of business. Strengthening MSMEs, creating a fund of funds scheme for technology adoption for use in industry 4.0, reviving the Credit Linked Capital Subsidy Scheme (CLCSS) for technology up-gradation.

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2022 TAAI

To revive this struggling sector, we need ‘One India One Tourism’ approach inclusive of ‘One Tax Structure.’

Important points to be considered are E visa fees waiver for all tourist visas for 2022-2023, to support inbound revival Export status for tourism export earnings to support the inbound revival. Doubled, expenditure allocation for tourism ministry to enable intensive global reach out to support the inbound revival. Domestic income tax travel credit for Indian citizens and Indian companies to support domestic retail and domestic mice pickup. Global bidding fund to enable bidding support to Indian mice companies to bring global mice events to India. EClLGS extension for tourism and hospitality. ATF ought to be brought under the GST to make air travel more viable for the entire aviation stakeholders.

Lastly & most vital is a structured mechanism to future secure travel agents’ payments to ensure that we create security for our travel agents & operators’ survival. Travel agents’ payments to principals are unsecured credit and we need to ensure that some form of mechanisms whether escrow or guarantee or underwriting based mechanisms are in place to ensure that travel agents money stays secure.

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INDIA

Representative REPRESENTATION MARKETING RESEARCH PR AND MEDIA

INDIA MEANS BUSINESS Co ns ulting fo r To u ris m B oa rds a nd B urea u s, Ho te ls a nd Reso rts, Ve nues a nd Attra ctio n s

Email : India @indiarepresentative.com

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TRAVBUZZ NEWS

TCEB UNVEILS THAI LAN D EXH I BITION CAL E N DAR 2022

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he Thailand Convention & Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) continues to shape the business events industry of Thailand with exceptional acumen and effective solutions. With a robust service support system and innovative approaches to co-create distinctive programs for the organisers, TCEB is redefining the MICE landscape to maintain Thailand’s impact as a top Asian business destination.

Recently TCEB Exhibitions Department has unveiled full list of exhibitions coming up in Thailand in the year 2022. Check out

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the list of exhibitions coming up in Thailand by scaning the QR code to download the calendar.

TCEB forges ahead with its 360-degree subventions for international exhibitions in Thailand to win the ASEAN's market of 660 million buyers. Thailand's exhibition industry successfully restarts, and 49 international trade shows of focused industries under TCEB’s supports line up in 2022.

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TBO Tek Limited, a global B2B travel technology company, announces the appointment of four independent directors to its Board

TBO Tek Limited (“TBO”), one of the leading global travel distribution platforms which runs the portal TravelBoutiqueOnline.com, announced the appointment of four independent directors on its Board of Directors (“Board”). Mr. Ravindra Dhariwal, Mr. Rahul Bhatnagar, Mr. Bhaskar Pramanik and Ms Anuranjita Kumar have joined the Board with effect from November 24, 2021 as Independent Directors of TBO.

Commenting on the appointment,

Mr. Ankush Nijhawan, Joint Managing Director, TBO, said, “We, at TBO, are delighted to welcome four distinguished personalities on the Board of Directors including Mr. Ravindra Dhariwal, Mr. Rahul Bhatnagar, Mr. Bhaskar Pramanik and Ms. Anuranjita Kumar. We are confident that their rich experience, in-depth knowledge and proficiency will add values to the company as we embark on our next phase of growth.”

“

Mr. Gaurav Bhatnagar, Joint Managing Director, TBO, said, “We are honoured to welcome distinguished and eminent personalities to our Board of Directors. Each of them brings significant experience, insights and perspectives in areas essential to our business and governance. ”

“

Mr. Ravindra Dhariwal holds a bachelor’s degree of technology in chemical engineering from Indian Institute of Technology, Kanpur and holds a post-graduate diploma in management from Indian Institute of Management, Calcutta. He is the chairperson of Sagacito Technologies Private Limited. He was the vice president of franchise for South East Asia at Pepsico International.

He was appointed as the Chairman and independent director of TBO with effect from November 24, 2021.

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TRAVBUZZ NEWS

“

Mr. Ravindra Dhariwal holds a bachelor’s degree of technology in chemical engineering from Indian Institute of Technology, Kanpur and holds a post-graduate diploma in management from Indian Institute of Management, Calcutta. He is the chairperson of Sagacito Technologies Private Limited. He was the vice president of franchise for South East Asia at Pepsico International. He was appointed as the Chairman and independent director of TBO with effect from November 24, 2021.

“

“

Ms. Anuranjita Kumar holds a bachelor’s degree of arts in psychology from Indraprastha College for Women, University of Delhi and has a post graduate diploma in personnel management and industrial relations from XLRI, Jamshedpur.

She has previously been engaged with the Royal Bank of Scotland and is part of the council of adv

Mr. Rahul Bhatnagar holds a bachelor’s degree in arts from the University of Delhi and a master’s degree in business administration from Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania. He is also an associate member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India.

He has been associated with Bharti Enterprises and Pepsico International.

“

Mr. Bhaskar Pramanik holds a bachelor’s degree in technology from the Indian Institute of Technology, Kanpur. He has experience in the technology industry. He is currently on the Indian advisory board of The Schulich School of Business, York University, the executive council of Bennett University, Greater Noida and the advisory council of Indian Institute of Technology, Palakkad and has served as director on the central board of State Bank of India. He has been previously engaged with Microsoft Corporation (India) Private Limited as chairman and area vice president and the National Radio and Electronics Company Limited as divisional manager – business systems division.

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TRAVBUZZ NEWS

What Outbound Travel industry means for a nation like India. by Om Prakash Sahgal, Director, Inorbit Tours P. Ltd. In the travel industry the 2 termologies go hand in hand namely: 1. Outbound Travel 2.Inbound Travel Outbound Travel industry is important for nation like India.

Significance of outbound travel: In today's world, universe is considered as one world in the travel termology. There are I'm portant segments in the outbound travel viz :

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TRAVBUZZ NEWS

1.Leisure

Travel

3.Medical 5.VFR

Travel

Business Travel

4.EducationTravel

travel

7.Administration

6. Social

Exchange Travel

Study Travel

All the above segments are very important for the development of our nation. Hence the importance of Outbound Travel cannot be under estimated.

For the information of the readers, I have contributed 40 years for the development of Outbound Business Travel specially for visits to international exhibitions and for International Business Conference s.I have feedback from thousands of visitors, as to how their outbound visits have helped in their progress. Such specialist outbound visits have contributed in a big way in the development of nation's technology, increase in India's exports.It has also provided massive employment, which is the dire need of our nation and to the GDP.

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2.

As a result this has placed India on the world map as a capable country which produces needle to fighter tanks and all types of consumer goods which were imported during the British Regime. Hence Outbound Travel has played an important role in the building of industrial India.

Hence it has sufficiently proved that India has forged into the fastest growing outbound travel nation.

With more than 1.2 billion, it's GDP increased by more than 7 percent every year. India offers enormous in the growth of Outbound Travel.

Similarly a lot of supporting evidences can be quoted for each of the segments of Outbound Travel, which enhances and signify the importance of Outbound Travel industry and of its positive impact in the building up of a strong nation. The future of Indian Outbound Travel industry is certainly very bright.

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Event in Focus

IATTE Business

Meet 2022, Delhi

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TRAVBUZZ NEWS

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Ministry of Tourism Launches Incredible India 2022 digital calendar dedicated to tourism sites across India.As India celebrates Azadi Ka AmritMahotsav, the calendar showcases Incredible Stories of India's Independence.

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TRAVBUZZ NEWS

“

Featured in this calendar are homes and gardens, forts and palaces that echo with incredible stories of courage and valour, stories that every Indian should know and be proud of” Tweeted Union Minister for G. Kishan Reddy

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TRAVBUZZ NEWS

The Jamaica Pavilion receives over 84,000 in the first three months of the World Expo 2020 Dubai

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he Jamaica Pavilion has welcomed 84,683 visitors in the first three months of World Expo 2020 Dubai. This represents almost 1% of the total 8,958,132 million Expo visitors from October to December 2021.

Under the theme Jamaica Makes It Move, the Jamaica Pavilion is proving to be a must-see Pavilion at Expo 2020. It is the scintillating music that welcomes you or the Jamaica Blue Mountain Coffee on offer daily by Mokha 1450 or showcasing sports legends like Usain Bolt, that the Jamaica Pavilion is using to exemplify the unique beauty of this island nation.

The Jamaica Pavilion has been deemed both one of the ‘coolest’ and ‘must see’ Pavilions at Expo 2020 Dubai, dedicated to highlighting the social, economic, and cultural vibrance unique to the Jamaican people.

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The visitor numbers are supporting the accolades ascribed to the Jamaica Pavilion.

The average number of visitors per day stands at 930.58, which accounts for 0.945% of the total number of visitors at the Expo. The Jamaica Pavilion received its highest number of visitors in a single day – almost 4000 on the UAE National Day on 02 December 2021.

“Receiving almost 1% of all Expo visitors is proof that Jamaica as a travel and a business destination generates tremendous interest.

While the Jamaica Pavilion showcases business opportunities for alliances and investments, for the Middle East and other markets, the uniqueness of the pavilion reflects the culture of Jamaica, which has been a crucial aspect in attracting visitors from across the globe”, stated Donovan White, Director of Tourism of Jamaica. www.travbuzznews.com

TRAVBUZZ NEWS

Jamaica Special Economic Zone Authority (JSEZA), said “The fact that we are attracting almost 1% of the total visitors to the expo, Jamaica is boldly saying on the global stage – wi day ya! (we are here!).

Jamaica, having over 84,000 visitors or close to 1% of all Expo visitors from October to December 2021, is clear evidence of the pull of ‘Brand Jamaica’.

The island through its history, cultural and artistic expression, has had a long and strong impact globally.

A team from JSEZA forms part of the multi-agency Jamaican delegation to Dubai. Others include the Jamaica Tourist Board and Ministry of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport (MCGES).

The Jamaica Pavilion is conveniently located in proximity to one of the main entrances to the Expo, positioned near the main metro line in and out of the Expo grounds.

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TRAVBUZZ NEWS

Travel and Tourism ignored once again: TAAI to FM: Budget 2022 Our trade has been ignored once again, stated Jyoti Mayal, President Travel Agents Association of India In the statement released post budget on 1st February, 2022, by TAAI, India’s premier and largest travel and tourism Association, it is stated that : our trade has suffered tremendously due to the pandemic and it was expected that the Government would atleast work towards positive upliftment of the travel and tourism in India, which they always portray as a priority ? In our representations to the Finiance Minister over last two months, we had requested for GST input credits be made available across states for hotels and travel-tour operators.

TCS which has been a hinderance to growth of outbound tourism making Indian tour operators less competitive in the international market due to the 5% being levied on all package tour options over and above the GST, stated Jyoti Mayal. We were also expecting to the least that travel and tourism be brought under the concurrent list for industry status, she added.

Jay Bhatia, Vice President - TAAI stated that it is frustrating that the Government’s focus is on 2047 rather than looking at current challenges faced by the travel and tourism trade in India.In her budget speech the Hon’able Finance Minister setout “Amritkal” being positive for the growth of the country, we feel that this is not Amritmanthan but “Mahapralaya” - dissolution of the travel and tourism trade in India. Our appeals the government to liberalise taxes and grant tax holidays on GST for boosting travel and tourism has being ignored. Further, he stated that, it was also expected that earnings from inbound travel would have been supported by Export Status, which would have enabled trade growth enhancing the economy.

Travel and Tourism contributed nearly 10% of India’s GDP, being one of the highest in the service sector and not a mention for development and prosperity of the trade, stated Bettaiah Lokesh, Hon. Secretary General, TAAI. We had appealed

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Jyoti Mayal, President TAAI for opening up of the sector and making it more liberalised for ease of doing business, but it seems that the focus of the Hon’able Minister was only to present a populist budget and not growth oriented.

Hon. National Treasurer - TAAI, Shreeram Patel stated that the Government has totally sidelined the trade and the only point mentioned was in Gati Shakti which would relieve foreign travellers.

TCS and GST being the biggest hindrance, not being considered was a shameful and a death knell for our trade.

We at TAAI on behalf of the travel and tourism trade, totally condemn and express our displeasure on the Budget 2022 presented by the Hon’able Finiance Minister, Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman. The growth of travel and tourism required a catalystic boost, but with none coming our way, the pandemic shall continue to dampen our miseries multifold. www.travbuzznews.com

TRAVBUZZ NEWS

The Fern Residency opens in Haridwar, Uttarakhand The Fern Hotels & Resorts, India’s leading environmentally sensitive hotel chain announced the opening of The Fern Residency, Haridwar. This is the 3rd operational property in Uttarakhand. The company already manages hotels in Bhimtal and Mussoorie in the state. Overall it takes the tally to 84 hotels managed by the company in India, Nepal and Seychelles.

Expressing his pleasure at the new opening, Suhail Kannampilly, CEO of The Fern Hotels & Resorts said,” We have been slowly spreading our wings in the picturesque state of Uttrakhand. We expect this hotel in Haridwar to do good business as it is situated in an extremely important city from the religious tourism point of view.

Moreover, it is very well connected to other

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tourist destinations of the state like Rishikesh, Dehradun and Mussoorie.”

The Fern Residency, Haridwar is a 55-room full-service hotel offering a multi cuisine pure vegetarian restaurant, a swimming pool, gym, spa and state-of-the-art banquet facilities. The hotel is centrally located with easy access to major sightseeing attractions.

The hotel offers three categories of rooms viz. Winter Green, Fern Club and Hazel Suite. The rooms are equipped with all modern facilities and amenities to fulfil the needs of leisure as well as business travelers.

Guests can appreciate various in-room facilities such as High-speed Wi-Fi internet, LED television, complimentary bottled drinking water, tea & coffee facility, digital in-room safe, eco-friendly room lighting & bathroom amenities.

Other facilities in the hotel include kids play lawns, souvenir shop, comprehensive travel assistance, complimentary buffet breakfast, multi cuisine pure vegetarian restaurant, spacious banquet and meeting rooms and business centre facilities.

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KERALA TRAVEL MART DEFERRED TO MAY 5-8, 2022 DUE TO COVID SURGE

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he eleventh edition of Kerala Travel Mart (KTM), India’s largest tourism industry congregation originally scheduled for March 24-27, has been postponed to May 5 to 8 at Kochi in view of the current surge in Covid-19 across the world.

The revised schedule of the event was announced by Dr Venu V, Additional Chief Secretary , Tourism, Shri V R Krishna Teja, Director of Tourism, KTM Society President Shri Baby Mathew and Secretary Shri Jose Pradeep said at an online press conference today. Former presidents and managing committee members of KTM Society were also present.

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The inaugural ceremony of the event, being organised by the KTM Society, will be followed by three days of deliberations at Sagara and Samudrika Convention Centre in Willingdon Island in Kochi.

Dr Venu said KTM 2022 has been postponed to ensure the safe health of more than 1,000 buyers attending the meet.

The KTM meet is of crucial importance in the state’s efforts to revive the pandemic-hit tourism sector by attracting visitors from across the world, they said.

Coming close on the heels of the launch of the state government’s Caravan Tourism project ‘Keravan Kerala’, the upcoming edition of KTM will have caravan tourism and adventure tourism as the main themes.

Alongside, the internationally-acclaimed responsible tourism, too, will receive prominent attention.

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TRAVBUZZ NEWS Kerala is readying up to serve again its visitors with new travel destinations and innovative tourism products, said Shri Krishna Teja.

KTM comes at a time when the travel industry is looking at the nascent Caravan Tourism with renewed hope, Shri Mathew noted. The concept has immense potential to fetch Kerala a special place in the world tourism map, as did Houseboat Tourism earlier, he added.

Organisers have charted a pre-KTM tour for vloggers from within the country and abroad to show the beauty and variety of Kerala’s destinations. A similar journey will be conducted after the event for select buyers attending the mart, Shri Baby Mathew revealed.

The upcoming mart will be conducted in a space of one lakh square feet, which will be totally paper-free, Shri Jose Pradeep of KTM Society said.

KTM former president Shri Abraham George said the May event will feature exhibitions on Caravan Tourism and Responsible Tourism. Those who have registered for the edition, originally slated to

be held in March, need not repeat the act, he added.

The government is coordinating among various departments to carry forward Caravan Tourism, a pioneering project being developed on PPP mode with private investors, tour operators and local communities as key stakeholders to ensure safe, customized and closest-to-nature travel experience. This time, KTM will also give prominence to the government’s tourism initiatives in upstate Malabar.

KTM 2022 will give greater attention to domestic buyers, given that tourists within the country have resumed travel even as several foreign countries are yet to fully resume travel to India revoking the pandemic-induced restrictions.

Already more than 1,100 international and domestic buyers have registered for KTM. Having devised novel ways to woo them,

organisers are optimistic about a steady rise in their number once the pandemic shows further signs of abatement.

More than 100 media representatives across the globe have registered to cover KTM 2022.

Organisers have charted a pre-KTM tour for mediapersons including vloggers from the country and abroad to show the beauty and variety of Kerala’s travel destinations. A similar journey is being conducted after the event for select buyers attending the mart in May. Last year, the KTM had organized a virtual summit in March, facilitating more than 7,000 business meets that enabled the travel industry to take major strides in overcoming the Covid-triggered economic crisis. That online event saw a virtual buyers’ meet with participants from across the world, including India.

KTM Society, the country’s biggest organization in the travel and tourism segment, has been working towards reviving the industry since the spread of the novel coronavirus in the state two years ago.

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APPOINTMENT ALERT Shikha Khanna Joins Summit Hotels and Resorts as National head of PR and Marketing.

Shikha brings with her the experience of over 18 years in Tourism and Hospitality.

At Summit Hotels and Resorts Shikha will be guiding the Marketing team in establishing great relationship with the reputable B2B agents across the country.

Summit Hotels and Resorts is the largest Himalayan Hospitality Brand known for premier leisure hospitality services. Brand covers the major eastern circuit of India namely Gangtok, Lachung, Lachen, Pelling, Kalimpong, Darjeeling, and Kaziranga and to name a few other locations like Shimla and Manali.

Shikha Khanna

AUSTRALIA ANNOUNCES REOPENING FOR FULLY VACCINATED STARTING 21 FEB Australia will reopen to all fully vaccinated visa holders, welcoming the return of tourists, business travellers, and other visitors from 21 February.

These changes will ensure we protect the health of Australians, while we continue to secure our economic recovery.Australia’s health system has demonstrated its resilience throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, including though the recent Omicron wave. With improving health conditions, including a recent 23 per cent decline in hospitalisations due to COVID, the National Security Committee of Cabinet today agreed Australia is ready to further progress the staged reopening of our international border.

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Visa holders who are not fully vaccinated will still require a valid travel exemption to enter Australia, and will be subject to state and territory quarantine requirements.Today’s announcement will give certainty to our vital tourism industry, and allow them to start planning, hiring and preparing for our reopening. In 2018-19, tourism generated more than $60 billion for the Australian economy, with more than 660,000 jobs dependent on the industry. Since the Morrison Government commenced Australia’s staged international border reopening on 1 November 2021 we have seen almost 580,000 arrivals come to Australia including to reunite with loved ones, work or study.The Commonwealth continues to work with States and Territories on the safe resumption of the cruise industry and looks forward to further announcements on this in due course.

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TRAVBUZZ NEWS

PUTTING DIGITAL DOLLARS IN YOUR POCKET AND THE WORLD AT YOUR FEET Earn instant globally accepted rewards with Sun International’s new leisure loyalty programme

N

ow anyone who signs up to Sun GHA, Sun International’s new loyalty programme, will also become eligible to earn rewards and Discovery Dollars that can be redeemed at more than 500 hotels worldwide.

splash out on a vintage bottle of wine at dinner, book a full spa treatment, or they can explore their destination with a curated experience unique to that hotel.

One Discovery Dollar (D$) equals the value of one US-Dollar.

Members can earn and redeem D$ by staying at any hotel in the global alliance, whether it is in South Africa or abroad.

Membership to Sun GHA is free, and members are recognised equally at any of the partner hotels.

Graham Wood, Sun International’s Group COO for Hospitality says, “Sun GHA also provides an exciting opportunity for existing and new South African members to be able to travel globally and benefit from the programme’s unique benefits and rewards. Similarly, lots of GHA members overseas have never visited South Africa before, which gives us an amazing opportunity to benefit from the programme too as no doubt our properties

Today the Global Hotel Alliance (GHA) is the world’s largest alliance of independent hotel brands. It was founded in 2004 and launched the Discovery loyalty programme in 2010. The alliance currently has over 35 hospitality brands with over 500 hotels, in 85 countries, serving 11 million members.

In February this year, Sun International announced that it would become the first and currently only South African hotel group to join the Global Hotel Alliance.

While at an alliance hotel members can spend their D$ on everything from rooms to dining, spa, golf and exclusive experiences. There are countless ways for them to spend their D$. They can save up for a dream getaway, they can treat themselves to a luxurious room upgrade, www.travbuzznews.com

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Exhibitions Coming Up in Thailand in 2022 Attend Virtually and claim 500 USD min (subject to 10 delegates attending the show as visitor) Call to know more +917065546046 Venue

Date

Exhibition Name

Venue

THAILAND COFFEE TEA & DRINKS/THAILAND BAKERY & ICE CREAM

BITEC

24-26 Aug

Maintenance, Industrial Robotics, Automation Event 2022

NICE, PATTAYA

Date

Exhibition Name

Venue

29 Aug-1 September

Defense & Security 2022

IMPACT

10-13 March 2022

THAILAND FRANCHISE & BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY

BITEC

Date

Exhibition Name

Venue

7-9 September 2022

Health & Nutrition Asia 2022

IMPACT Bangkok

10-13 March 2022

THAILAND RETAIL, FOODS & HOSPITALITY SERVICES

BITEC

14-16 September 2022

Thailand LAB INTERNATIONAL 2022

BITEC

10-13 March 2022

ASEAN RETAIL

BITEC

14-16 September 2022

Bio Asia Pacific 2022

BITEC

Date

Exhibition Name

Venue

Free From Food Asia 2022

BITEC Bangna

18-21 May

Intermach and MTA Asia 2022

14-16 September 2022

BITEC BITEC

ASEAN Sustainable Energy week 2022

QSNCC

Subcon Thailand 2022

14-16 September

Electric Vehicle Asia 2022

QSNCC

Asia Luxury Travel Mart 2022 (ALTM 2022)

Hilton Phuket Arcadia Resort & Spa

Pumps and Valves Asia 2022

QSNCC

Agritechnica Asia

BITEC Bangna

25-27 May 2022

Boilex Asia 2022

QSNCC

HORTI Asia

BITEC Bangna

Date

Exhibition Name

Venue

Thai Water Expo 2022

QSNCC

15-18 June

ProPak Asia 2022

BITEC

Tissue&Paper Bangkok 2022

QSNCC

15-18 June

ISSA South East Asia 2022

BITEC

BYOND Mobile

Cosmoprof CBE ASEAN 2022

IMPACT

8-9 June 2022

Samyan Mitrtown

Date

Exhibition Name

Venue

LED Expo Thailand + SMARTECH ASEAN 2022

6-8 July

ANDTEX 2022

BITEC

IMPACT Muang Thong Thani

20-22 July

Future Energy Asia 2022

BITEC

Building Construction

20-22 July

Future Mobility Asia

BITEC

IMPACT Muang Thong Thani

25-27 July

Asia Warehousing Show

BITEC

Asia Cold Chain Show

BITEC

Date

Exhibition Name

3-6 February 2022

18-21 May 18-22 May 2022 25-27 May 2022

25-27 July

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Vol 3 | Issue 3

14-16 September 14-16 September 14-16 September 14-16 September 14-16 September 15-17 September 21-23 September 2022

15-17 SepTechnology Expo 2022 (BCT tember 2022 Expo) 15-18 September 2022

IMPACT Thailand Lifelong Learning & Muang Education Expo 2022 Thong Thani

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Exhibitions Coming Up in Thailand in 2022 Attend Virtually and claim 500 USD min (subject to 10 delegates attending the show as visitor) Call to know more +917065546046 21-24 September 22-25 September 2022

Food and Hotel Thailand 2022

QSNCC

THAILAND COFFEE TEA & DRINKS / THAILAND BAKERY & ICE CREAM

IMPACT

Date

Exhibition Name

Venue

5-7 October

wire Southeast Asia

BITEC, Bangkok

5-7 October

Tube Southeast Asia

BITEC, Bangkok

5-7 October

GIFA Southeast Asia

BITEC, Bangkok

5-7 October

METEC Southeast Asia

BITEC, Bangkok

5-7 October

Food ingredients Asia 2022

BITEC, Bangkok

13-16 October 2022

THAILAND FRANCHISE & BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES

QSNCC

13-16 October 2022

THAILAND RETAIL, FOODS & HOSPITALITY SERVICES

BITEC

13-16 ASEAN RETAIL October 2022 19-21 OctoCPhI South East Asia 2022 ber 19-21 Medlab Asia Health and Asia October Health 2022 2022 19-22 OctoPACK PRINT INTERNATIONAL ber 26-28 Pet Fair SEA 2022 October 2022 28-30 OctoSportec Asia ber 8-11 November

Jewellery & Gem ASEAN Bangkok 2022

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BITEC

IMPACT

25-27 NoFRANCHISE & INVESTMENT EXPO vember 2022 23-25 November 2022 30th Nov2022

NICE

DigiTech ASEAN Thailand 2021

IMPACT Muang Thong Thani

ASEAN Ceramics

Impact

IMPACT Muang Thong Thani

30th Nov2022

The Great Outdoor & Lifestyle Festival Show

BITEC, Bangkok

IMPACT Muang Thong Thani, IMPACT Lake side

Date

Exhibition Name

Venue

BITEC Bangna

1-2 December 2022

ASEAN Ceramics

Impact

7-9 December 2022

REDCON Asia

United Nations Conference Center, Bangkok

24-25 December 2022

RAIL Asia

MYTT Hotel, Pattaya

Impact

BITEC

Vol 3 | Issue 3

49

TRAVBUZZ NEWS

The Fern Residency,

Rajkot wins the Prestigious Hygiene & Clean Hotels Award The Fern Residency, Rajkot wins the prestigious Hygiene & Clean Hotels Award given by Rajkot Municipal Corporation for maintaining hygiene standards The Fern Residency, Rajkot won the prestigious Hygiene and Clean Hotel Award for the year 2021-22. The award was given by the Rajkot Municipal Corporation after surveying all the hotels under its jurisdiction.

The General Manager of the hotel, Ajay Srivastava received the award from the municipal commissioner and mayor of Rajkot.

Congratulating the staff members of the hotel, Senior Vice President-Sales & Marketing, Noshir A Marfatia said,

“

It is a proud moment for us that a hotel competing with so many other hotels has been recognized for its hygiene standards and cleanliness. This has always been the ethos of The Fern Hotels and becomes even more important in this prevailing pandemic situation”.

According to the GM, Ajay Srivastava the award carries a huge significance in the city as very stringent norms are followed by the municipal corporation.

Moreover, the municipal officers visit unannounced and there is an element of surprise as well. They not only check the front areas but also the back-end operations, kitchen, inventory etc. After taking note of everything a

50

Vol 3 | Issue 3

jury which includes both municipal commissioner and mayor along with other members reviews all the hotels and then decides upon the winner.

The Fern Hotels & Resorts is India’s leading environmentally sensitive hotel chain and amongst the fastest growing hotel brands in India, with 88 hotels & resorts currently operational under management or opening shortly across 70 locations in India and internationally, under The Fern, The Fern Residency, The Zinc by The Fern and Beacon Hotels brands.

The company is a part of CG Corp Global, a multi-dimensional Nepalese conglomerate.

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