Safari Plus 2016 July August

! "

#

$ % & '()* + ), - *

!

""

# $

$ %& ' %()

"" "

$ ( ' *) " + "

"

!

, #

$

"

" -

.

""

/& 0& ) $ "

"

"

" " "" " $ " 1 "

2

!

$ $ $

3 $ "

$

"" $

" $

4 5 *& 667

$ (&)

$

$

8

9 4 " ""

" "

$ "

$

" $"

$

$

" $ " $

1 #

" $

" $ " $ 5 : 6

"

" () %&) "

" "

"

"

" $

" -

$ " $

() " $

"

"

$ $ "

$

;+ +

7 ""

"

"

< "

" $ "

" ""

" " " 5 " "

" " " $

; "

$

" ! =

$

" /(&

""

" $"

" $ "

" " 4" " >

"" "

"" "

9 4 =

$" ? " " $ ""

$ "" $

< " 5 ,

" ""

"

" " $"

" $ $" 0( @&

$

$

""

"

" 9 > " "

"

" $ "" " =

" A& /*& 2

B& $"

" -

" ""

$ $

$

"

9 "

" $"

$ 7

" "

# C

"

$

#

$

"

"

+

"" #

"" " " $

" $" "" " . =1

" 9

"

"

" $"

"" $

. $ ?+ "

"

"

" "

$

"

"

!

"" = =

" " " "

$

"

"

" 9 , " 5 ,

"

" + $

,

= >

"" 5 ;+ = " $ %& 457 =

" $ " $

"

"" " $" 6 "

$" " $ "

? "

$

!

"

$

" $

$ $

"

"

" $" < ( ' *

7 7= 7 3

" " "

" " ; "

" $

+7?7=7 "

$

"

"

" "

" $ " .

"

"

$ #

"

$

$" " $ "" $

$

"

" 5

erators p O r u To Tickets l i a R & Airline oking o B l e t Ho entals R h c a Co Car & izers n a g r O Event

! " " # $%% & ' ($)'%'' ''()($$'' & * +" , - + *

- . / 0 * , / & 1.2 $

! " # $ %& '

! " #

# " $ %

!

" # &

' ' ' %

()'*)) $ " +,-. / 0 -1'.12 $ " +,-1 -32 24

/ 0 $ "' +,-.5/ 6 $ "' +,-. ()'*)) / 0 -1'.12 $ "' +,-1 -32 24 6 7 "/ $ "' +,-.' (')('2+3 / 0 -'-,'.13

7 " / $ " +,-1' +2) ,4 "

/ 0 -1,

() -, / 0 $ "' +,-.

5 # -* 1+4 ' 8 -1 .)4 '

* -34 ' 9 1 -.4 ' : " ( 2-4 ' ( 1,4 '

( (24 ' ) ,-4 ' ; 9 + 324 $ " + -+4

# ( ) $ * + , * #$ % ! & ' ! ( ' )

* # $ " $ < * "

' # "' $= + ,' - % $ = ! ! / ; " < 8

& ' - -- .

5 & & - -

' . / 0

1 - 2 ' 3 . * 2 1 4 ! '

1 2 ! ! 1 5 ( / 1

! ' " 63

' !' / & - / . '

7

( ' - -+ 1

5 * / 8'9 1 - 4 ' .

/ 9 1 (' '/

5 & - ' - + - 8 /'!- 2 - . 8 0 1 ' 7 "

" %

9 ' >

? ; /

!

$ " # 6 # +,-(/-1

" '

" # 6 '

' "5 @ /

' A ' ? "

'

' 8 ' 6 '

' ' B ' ; ' #

' ; " ?

!" #

!

" # $ # $ % $ # & '$

# ( " # &)

!

! " #

$% & !

! " ' ! (

" ' )

!

( ! " ! !

(%

" * ' +

, (%"

& !

! ! &" !

& -

($"$, . &/.

0%($ ! !

(12

0%(3"

-

405 6 (,2" * $ ($ # $ # $# #

! & $#)

# 7 8 !

&

'

" ' &

-

9 !

" : ;

!

< " 7 !

!

7 - : " &

!

= ' = . & 8 " '

!

(% & !

! (

" &

&

- & & ! ! !

" 7 = ! !

- &

" & ! !

(0

!

+ , &&$ -$( .

> / ( / ( 0

' # $ #

" " # $ $ $ ( # $ # &$ & &

" & # $ $" &$ # #

1) ' 8? 6 & (3 !

@ 8 ( - !

" @ 8

" 8? @ 8 !

&

-

!

(% & / 20 ( & 3 $# ( ' ! !

77 8?" 6

8? 0%(, !

! !

"

( 4 # # & ! 4%2 <7

! & 0%2 #7 & #7

" ! $%/,%2 !

A " ' &

7 5$ # /667 5$ # ,4 8 ! ! !

5$ # 08 084 5$ # ! 2 !

= "C 5$ # 89 80!8 8 ! =

&

/ !

$& # # & $ # $# $ # :

!

"

! /

!

8 &"

4 2 &$

&

&"

7 " B7 D & - &

3% & !

8 : > ! / " 7=

" 7 = @ D D &

! & &

&

!

C & & ! / 6 E

"

- &"

, (* $

& ; / 7 & - &

& > 8 & = " 7 B+

)

= & & &

& & & & !

E

1%2

! " 8 & !

7 " ' ! ! / $%/$32 & 0%00" ' E & " F

& ! ! ) !

" 3/, &

& " "

# # " # $ & / ' !

&

! = &

& - ! &

! " +

&

" 6 &

!

&

&= /! ! = - & /

"

&

!

E " =

!

& &

! "

6 & @ 8 ! ! " 8 < # $ < $ : +

!

& !

&

& " '

& & &

& " .

& ! "

& > &

& ! " F = ! ! "

# & # : 8 &

G

/ / ! & - &

"

& 7

&

! &

7 7 8 6 "

! !

7 " 7 & &

& 9 & !

-

7 " <

!

!

" !

!

7 &

(3 2

7 " /4 7 6; -8 804/ ,=-8! 8

8

&

@ 7

@ 7 @

! 6 @ !

"

7 &

" * &

& &

" #

&

& 9

7 "

,60 4-8 6; /4 ->4-8 847! - ->!28 H &

&

!

E & " 6

! &

& " < I

&

&

! " 06 6 !6 6; 5>22,! !0 >!

6 @

7

"

& @

&

6

" '

9

& "

" 5/

D 3/

6 " ' !

/ &

6

!

& ! & &

" ? - 6 6>0! ! 2> 0= < & " '

!

"

%2 <

& 7 &" ! >8 ! , ,8 04!/ 4= @: J

K

!

!

) 7 ! & !

" & ! &

! & " !

&

7 " 4!0 ,40 80 6 80 !6 6/! = @

& &

& 7

< "

) &

@

+

" /6 ! - 6; 04; ! - 4 6 ,8 -4 -4 <

!

< "

/ &

&

&

! " &

&" &

"

0 6 6 ! 6 6 ; 4 - 0 ! > / > 0 8 6>0! # %/(3 &

9 8 &

!

&

K

!

&

& !

* L 3%

&K " 1%%%

" #

&

9 8 &

E

7 &KD @

" '

& & D I 8

8 -

7 K D @

! #

+

&

7 "

&

9 8 &

< " 7

/ "

+

!

)

& 8 &

< " 7 "

A Wet Day Out In...

Blue World Theme Park

Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh

What would be the best place in t h i s S u m m e r, , , t h e n t o g e t drenched in a Water Park. Gone are the days when people were happy to cool off simply by jumping in a lake or splashing around in the pool. Now are the days of themed water Park and the

6

July - August, 2016

budding BLUE WORLD is one, which is catching all sight in Uttar Pradesh.

Blue World Theme Park is one of the biggest theme park in Uttar Pradesh, a well packed entrainment destination with the water park and amusement rides. The theme

park is located at Mandhana-Bithoor Road, 2 km off GT Road. And is most entertaining wholesome family destination, spread over 25 acre of land.

The décor is themed like European, Chinese, Egyptian, Mayan, Fairy land, Jungle and Indian architectural.

Leaders, Monuments and many more historical and things and as the boat crosses each presentation will start glowing as if welcoming to its land.

Blue World has created exceptionally structured and we l l p l a n n e d a n d a e st h et ically

The Park features over 30 rides including Dry Rides, Water Fun, 7 D T h e a t e r, Dinosaur Villa and India's biggest private musical fountaincum- laser show, Chair Lift (Ropeway track). And you can enjoy the boating on the artificial lake with a Dragon Bridge and the Chinese architectural buildings surrounding the lake.

Fairy Land Water World is the place with continuous loop of pop tunes vying with an endless whir of water — splashing, spraying, gurgling, rushing, dumping. Try the thrills and spills of 12 awesome water rides – some totally unique (Aqua Funnel and Tat Pools) – that vary from screams to gentle swings, dedicated kids zones, a record big double wave pool. One can relax at an open area with the Ship Restaurant offering lip smacking cuisine.

SUHANA SAFAR IS ONE OF ITS KIND - An artificial cave built with river in it and visitors can go from start point to exit by boat. On many points of the boat one will see the glory of Eastern India like festivals DurgaPooja, Independence Movement, Great

illuminated Theme Zones, Restaurants, Koisks, Pools, online ticketing services (upcoming) and much more.

UpComing is the luxury hotel in t h e s a m e p re m i s e s , w i t h t h e world class services of the Grand Star Hotel and the exclusive experience that the Theme Park will offer to them in the times to come.

Blue World has built a strong presence and a solid reputation with its remarkable commitment to hospitality and unwavering dedication to the highest standards of service and facilities offered to its varied guests and clients. To name some Security, surveillance system, Customer Relation Executive, First Aid, Baby Pram, Wheel chair, RO Water supplies... all are taken care off.

One can also host theme parties, birthday get-togethers, corporate parties, social gathering and award functions.

Hey! Its summer time. This theme park is family oriented place so go for it…

www.safariplus.co.in

www.safariplus.co.in

July - August, 2016

7

TRADE PLUS

TRADE PLUS

Veer Yatra To Give Citizens

National Civil Aviation Policy, 2016

A Peep Into Military Way Of Life For the 1st time in India, civilian tourists will get to see ringside view of Military life with “Veer Yatra” organized by the brave men who once worked for the military. The first-of-its-kind “military tourism” initiative in India aims at strengthening the emotional bond that exists between the military e sta b l i s h m e nt a n d t h e c i v i l i a n population.

One can embark on a voyage of military history of famous forts in the Konkan, with the Veer Yatra team of exservicemen. Relive the glory of old naval forts steeped in legends of dare devilry.

Listen to fascinating stories of Maratha brave hearts. Spice up the tour with thrilling military games, delicious Konkani food, campfires at British era guesthouses, white water rafting, crocodile sightings and many more exciting adventures in the Konkan.

Veer Yatra offers civilians unique opportunities to experience the thrilling world of heroic defence forces from close quarters. From War Memorial to Army Workshop, Defence Academy, Naval Base, Warfare Centre, Military Management Techniques to Art of War and Military Games & Survival Techniques, there is something patriotic to see for everyone. Veer Yatra will showcase the institutions that it is made of, including the Armed Forces Medical

College, College of Military Engineering, Airforce Station, Military Hostels, various Regiments, Naval Aviation Museum, Military Museum and certain spots that would arouse intense patriotism.

Commenting on the launch of Veer Yatra, Col (Retd.) Suhas S. Jatkar, Managing Director, MESCO, said: “While Military Tourism is a well-established concept worldwide, it has not been explored in a structured way in India so far. Through Veer Yatra, MESCO aims to give the real-life experience to these aspirations – there is so much history, so much to see and so much to experience.

As ex-servicemen, we strongly feel the need to promote Military Tourism with a view to inculcate sense of patriotism among the children and youth of the country. Indian Military establishment has rich physical and emotional heritage that is worth exploring by all patriotic citizens.”

He added: “There is another side to this whole story – that of providing meaningful and gainful employment to widows to our martyrs and retired servicemen. At MESCO our motto is to re-habilitate the human resource of physically fit, mentally robust, d i s c i p l i n e d a n d p ro f i c i e n t E x Servicemen in outsourced services for a ny p u b l i c , p r i va te a n d G o v t .

organisations and thereby generate large number of job opportunities for these Ex-Servicemen. Besides, Veer Yatra will build the crucial bridge between military personnel and civilians, and it will allow the later to visualize how our military men negotiate inhospitable terrain and hostile conditions day-in and day-out to ensure that all of stay secured all the time.”

To start with there are nine “Veer Yatra” tours 1. BANO BAHADUR – CAMP SHAURYA (AGE GROUP 10-13) : War Memorial, Army Workshop 2. BANO BAHADUR – CAMP SHAURYA (AGE GROUP 14-16) : War Memorial, National Defence Academy, Armed Forces Medical College, College of Military Engineering, Airforce Station 3. PANHALA ADVENTURE CAMP: Military Hostel, Kolhapur Regiment 4. REFRESHING KONKAN: Old Naval Forts, Military Guest House – Mahad, Military Guest House –Alibag, Military Games 5. GOA-KARWAR COASTAL TREASURES: Fort Aguada, National Institute of Oceanography, Signal Regiment, Naval

Aviation Museum, Karwar Naval Base 6. GANGTOK-DARJEELING: Military Museum, China Border at Nathu La Pass and Border Roads Organization 7. MOONLIT RAIGAD: HISTORIC FORTS over a night trek under a full moon: Join the Maratha king and his army on a full moon adventure at Raigad 8. AMARNATH YATRA with Helicopter Trips - § What to cherish: J&K – Pakistan Border, Military Post – Srinagar, High Altitude Warfare Centre 9. COPORATE OUTBOUND PROGRAM @ MAHAD : Military Management Techniques, Art of War!, Military Games & Survival Techniques.

All the nine packages come at subsidized rates starting from Rs 2150/-per person (2D/1N) and leading up to Rs 32,000/(8D/7N).The tours are designed to give “as is” basis experience when it comes to living at Military sites wherein the facilities are not designed for 5-star hotel accommodation.

For tour enquiries, please call +91 8806063063 or +91 2067298018 or s e n d e m a i l o n : militarytours@mescotourism.com

The Minister of Civil Aviation Shri P. Ashok Gajapathi Raju released the National Civil Aviation Policy 2016 in New Delhi on 15 June, 2016. This is the first time since independence that an integrated Civil Aviation Policy has been brought out by the Ministry. Speaking on the occasion Shri Raju said that the centre-piece of the policy is to make regional air connectivity a reality. He said that the policy aims to take flying to the masses by making it affordable and convenient, establish an integrated ecosystem which will lead to significant growth of the civil aviation sector to promote tourism, employment and balanced regional growth, enhance regional connectivity through fiscal support and infrastructure development and enhance ease of doing business through deregulation, simplified procedures and egovernance.

Regional Connectivity Scheme second quarter of 2016-17 ! Airfare of about Rs 2500 per passenger

for a one-hour flight ! This will be implemented by way of:

July - August, 2016

a) Revival of airstrips/airports as NoFrills Airports at an indicative cost of Rs. 50 crore to Rs 100 crore b) Demand driven selection of Airports/airstrips for revival in consultation with State Govts and airlines c) Viability Gap Funding (VGF) to airline operators d) RCS only in those states which reduce VAT on ATF to 1% or less, provide other support services and 20% of VGF ! Concessions by Stakeholders a) There will be no airport charges

www.safariplus.co.in

u t i l i s e d 8 0 % o f t h e i r ca p a c i t y entitlements but foreign carriers /countries have utilised their bilateral rights, a method will be recommended by a Committee headed by Cabinet Secretary for the allotment of additional capacity entitlements ! Whenever designated carriers of India have utilised 80% their capacity entitlements, the same will be renegotiated in the usual manner

Ground Handling Policy ! The Ground Handling Policy/

Instructions/Regulations will be

www.safariplus.co.in

respective Ministries/Departments ! Allow Indian carriers to provide security

services to other domestic airlines subject to approval of BCAS ! Encourage use of private security agencies at airports for non- core security functions to be decided in consultation with MHA ! Such agencies should be registered under the Private Security Agencies (Regulation) Act, 2005 and will also be separately accredited by BCAS ! Subject to minimum benchmarks being met, security architecture at the different airports will be proportionate to the threat classification and traffic volume.

Helicopters and Charters ! Separate regulations for helicopters will

The Policy aims at: • India to become 3rd largest civil aviation market by 2022 from 9th • Domestic ticketing to grow from 8 crore in 2015 to 30 crore by 2022 • Airports having scheduled commercial flights to increase from 77 in 2016 to 127 by 2019 • Cargo volumes to increase by 4 times to 10 million tonnes by 2027 • Taking flying to masses – Enabling Indians to fly at Rs 2,500 per hour under Regional Connectivity Scheme at unserved airports • Requirement of 5 years of domestic flying for starting international operations removed • Flexible and liberalized ‘open skies’ and ‘code share’ agreements • Incentives to MRO sector to develop as hub for South Asia • Ensuring availability of quality certified 3.3 lakh skilled personnel by 2025 • Development of green-field airports and heliports • Enhancing ease of doing business through deregulation, simplified procedures and e-governance • Promoting ‘Make In India’ in Civil Aviation Sector The policy is very comprehensive, covering 22 areas of the Civil Aviation sector. Its salient features are as follows : ! This scheme will come into effect in the

8

b) Reduced Service tax on tickets (on 10% of the taxable value) for 1 year initially c) Reduced Excise duty at 2% on ATF picked at RCS airports d) State government will provide police and fire services free of cost. Power, water and other utilities at concessional rates ! Creation of Regional Connectivity fund for VGF through a small levy per departure on all domestic flights other than Cat II/ Cat IIA routes, RCS routes and small aircraft below 80 seats at a

rate as decided by the Ministry from time to time ! VGF to be shared between MoCA and State Governments in the ratio of 80:20.

For the North Eastern States, the ratio is 90:10

Route Dispersal Guidelines (RDG) ! Category I to be rationalized based on a transparent criteria, i.e., flying distance of more than 700km, average seat factor of 70% and above and annual traffic of 5 lakh passengers ! The percentage of Cat.I traffic to be deployed on Cat.II, and IIA will remain the same while for CATIII it will be 35%.

Routes to Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh included in Category II ! Revised categorization to apply from winter schedule of 2017 ! There view of routes will be done by MoCA once every 5 years ! Withdrawal or revision of domestic operations to and within North East Region etc, subject to full compliance of RDG, can be done under prior intimation to MoCA at least three months before withdrawal or revision of the service

5/20 Requirement ! Replaced with a scheme which provides a level playing field ! All airlines can now commence international operations provided that they deploy 20 aircraft or 20% of total capacity (in term of average number of seats on all departures put together), whichever is higher for domestic operations

Bilateral Traffic Rights ! GoI will enter into 'Open Sky' ASA on a

reciprocal basis with SAARC countries and countries located beyond 5000 km from Delhi ! For countries within 5000 km radius, where the Indian carriers have not

replaced by a new framework: ! The airport operator will ensure that

there will be three Ground Handling Agencies (GHA) including Air India's subsidiary/JV at all major airports as defined in AERA Act ! At non-major airports, the airport operator to decide on the number of ground handling agencies, based on the traffic output, airside and terminal building capacity ! All domestic scheduled airline operators including helicopter operators will be free to carry out self-handling at all airports through their regular employees ! Hiring of employees through manpower supplier or contract workers will not be permitted for security reasons

Airport PPP/AAI ! Encourage development of airports by

AAI, State Governments, the private sector or in PPP mode ! Future tariffs at all airports will be calculated on a 'hybrid till' basis, unless specified otherwise in concession agreements. 30% of non-aeronautical revenue will be used to cross- subsidise aeronautical charges ! Increase non-aeronautical revenue by better utilisation of commercial opportunities of city side land ! AAI to be compensated in case a new greenfield airport is approved in future within a 150 km radius of an existing unsaturated operational AAI airport (not applicable to civil enclaves)

Aviation Security, Immigration and customs ! MoCA will develop 'service delivery modules' for aviation security, Immigration, Customs, quarantine officers etc in consultations with

be notified by DGCA after due stakeholder consultation ! MoCA to coordinate with Govt agencies and other helicopter operators to facilitate Helicopter Emergency Medical Services ! Helicopters will be free to fly from point to point without prior ATC clearance in airspace below 5000 feet and areas other than controlled or prohibited or restricted airspace ! Airport charges for helicopter operations will be suitably rationalized ! The existing policy of allowing Inclusive tour package charters will be further reviewed to include more categories of passenger charter flights recognised globally.

Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul The MRO business of Indian carriers is around Rs 5000 crore, 90% of which is currently spent outside India. In the budget for 2016-17, customs duty has been rationalised and the procedure for clearance of goods simplified. Further incentives proposed in the policy to give a push to this sector: ! MoCA will persuade State Governments to make VAT zero- rated on MRO activities ! Provision for adequate land for MRO service providers will be made in all future airport/heliport projects where potential for such MRO services exists ! Airport royalty and additional charges will not be levied on MRO service providers for a period of five years from the date of approval of the policy

Aviation Education and Skill Building Estimated direct additional employment requirement of the Civil Aviation Sector by 2025 is about 3.3 lakh . All training in non licensed category will conform to National Skill Qualification Framework standards. MoCA will provide full support to the Aviation Sector Skill Council and other similar organisations/ agencies for imparting skills for the growing aviation industry. There are nearly 8000 pilots holding CPL but who have not found any regular employment.

MoCA will develop a scheme with budgetary support for Type- rating of Pilots. The detailed scheme will be worked out separately.

July - August, 2016

9

TRADE PLUS

TRADE PLUS

Veer Yatra To Give Citizens

National Civil Aviation Policy, 2016

A Peep Into Military Way Of Life For the 1st time in India, civilian tourists will get to see ringside view of Military life with “Veer Yatra” organized by the brave men who once worked for the military. The first-of-its-kind “military tourism” initiative in India aims at strengthening the emotional bond that exists between the military e sta b l i s h m e nt a n d t h e c i v i l i a n population.

One can embark on a voyage of military history of famous forts in the Konkan, with the Veer Yatra team of exservicemen. Relive the glory of old naval forts steeped in legends of dare devilry.

Listen to fascinating stories of Maratha brave hearts. Spice up the tour with thrilling military games, delicious Konkani food, campfires at British era guesthouses, white water rafting, crocodile sightings and many more exciting adventures in the Konkan.

Veer Yatra offers civilians unique opportunities to experience the thrilling world of heroic defence forces from close quarters. From War Memorial to Army Workshop, Defence Academy, Naval Base, Warfare Centre, Military Management Techniques to Art of War and Military Games & Survival Techniques, there is something patriotic to see for everyone. Veer Yatra will showcase the institutions that it is made of, including the Armed Forces Medical

College, College of Military Engineering, Airforce Station, Military Hostels, various Regiments, Naval Aviation Museum, Military Museum and certain spots that would arouse intense patriotism.

Commenting on the launch of Veer Yatra, Col (Retd.) Suhas S. Jatkar, Managing Director, MESCO, said: “While Military Tourism is a well-established concept worldwide, it has not been explored in a structured way in India so far. Through Veer Yatra, MESCO aims to give the real-life experience to these aspirations – there is so much history, so much to see and so much to experience.

As ex-servicemen, we strongly feel the need to promote Military Tourism with a view to inculcate sense of patriotism among the children and youth of the country. Indian Military establishment has rich physical and emotional heritage that is worth exploring by all patriotic citizens.”

He added: “There is another side to this whole story – that of providing meaningful and gainful employment to widows to our martyrs and retired servicemen. At MESCO our motto is to re-habilitate the human resource of physically fit, mentally robust, d i s c i p l i n e d a n d p ro f i c i e n t E x Servicemen in outsourced services for a ny p u b l i c , p r i va te a n d G o v t .

organisations and thereby generate large number of job opportunities for these Ex-Servicemen. Besides, Veer Yatra will build the crucial bridge between military personnel and civilians, and it will allow the later to visualize how our military men negotiate inhospitable terrain and hostile conditions day-in and day-out to ensure that all of stay secured all the time.”

To start with there are nine “Veer Yatra” tours 1. BANO BAHADUR – CAMP SHAURYA (AGE GROUP 10-13) : War Memorial, Army Workshop 2. BANO BAHADUR – CAMP SHAURYA (AGE GROUP 14-16) : War Memorial, National Defence Academy, Armed Forces Medical College, College of Military Engineering, Airforce Station 3. PANHALA ADVENTURE CAMP: Military Hostel, Kolhapur Regiment 4. REFRESHING KONKAN: Old Naval Forts, Military Guest House – Mahad, Military Guest House –Alibag, Military Games 5. GOA-KARWAR COASTAL TREASURES: Fort Aguada, National Institute of Oceanography, Signal Regiment, Naval

Aviation Museum, Karwar Naval Base 6. GANGTOK-DARJEELING: Military Museum, China Border at Nathu La Pass and Border Roads Organization 7. MOONLIT RAIGAD: HISTORIC FORTS over a night trek under a full moon: Join the Maratha king and his army on a full moon adventure at Raigad 8. AMARNATH YATRA with Helicopter Trips - § What to cherish: J&K – Pakistan Border, Military Post – Srinagar, High Altitude Warfare Centre 9. COPORATE OUTBOUND PROGRAM @ MAHAD : Military Management Techniques, Art of War!, Military Games & Survival Techniques.

All the nine packages come at subsidized rates starting from Rs 2150/-per person (2D/1N) and leading up to Rs 32,000/(8D/7N).The tours are designed to give “as is” basis experience when it comes to living at Military sites wherein the facilities are not designed for 5-star hotel accommodation.

For tour enquiries, please call +91 8806063063 or +91 2067298018 or s e n d e m a i l o n : militarytours@mescotourism.com

The Minister of Civil Aviation Shri P. Ashok Gajapathi Raju released the National Civil Aviation Policy 2016 in New Delhi on 15 June, 2016. This is the first time since independence that an integrated Civil Aviation Policy has been brought out by the Ministry. Speaking on the occasion Shri Raju said that the centre-piece of the policy is to make regional air connectivity a reality. He said that the policy aims to take flying to the masses by making it affordable and convenient, establish an integrated ecosystem which will lead to significant growth of the civil aviation sector to promote tourism, employment and balanced regional growth, enhance regional connectivity through fiscal support and infrastructure development and enhance ease of doing business through deregulation, simplified procedures and egovernance.

Regional Connectivity Scheme second quarter of 2016-17 ! Airfare of about Rs 2500 per passenger

for a one-hour flight ! This will be implemented by way of:

July - August, 2016

a) Revival of airstrips/airports as NoFrills Airports at an indicative cost of Rs. 50 crore to Rs 100 crore b) Demand driven selection of Airports/airstrips for revival in consultation with State Govts and airlines c) Viability Gap Funding (VGF) to airline operators d) RCS only in those states which reduce VAT on ATF to 1% or less, provide other support services and 20% of VGF ! Concessions by Stakeholders a) There will be no airport charges

www.safariplus.co.in

u t i l i s e d 8 0 % o f t h e i r ca p a c i t y entitlements but foreign carriers /countries have utilised their bilateral rights, a method will be recommended by a Committee headed by Cabinet Secretary for the allotment of additional capacity entitlements ! Whenever designated carriers of India have utilised 80% their capacity entitlements, the same will be renegotiated in the usual manner

Ground Handling Policy ! The Ground Handling Policy/

Instructions/Regulations will be

www.safariplus.co.in

respective Ministries/Departments ! Allow Indian carriers to provide security

services to other domestic airlines subject to approval of BCAS ! Encourage use of private security agencies at airports for non- core security functions to be decided in consultation with MHA ! Such agencies should be registered under the Private Security Agencies (Regulation) Act, 2005 and will also be separately accredited by BCAS ! Subject to minimum benchmarks being met, security architecture at the different airports will be proportionate to the threat classification and traffic volume.

Helicopters and Charters ! Separate regulations for helicopters will

The Policy aims at: • India to become 3rd largest civil aviation market by 2022 from 9th • Domestic ticketing to grow from 8 crore in 2015 to 30 crore by 2022 • Airports having scheduled commercial flights to increase from 77 in 2016 to 127 by 2019 • Cargo volumes to increase by 4 times to 10 million tonnes by 2027 • Taking flying to masses – Enabling Indians to fly at Rs 2,500 per hour under Regional Connectivity Scheme at unserved airports • Requirement of 5 years of domestic flying for starting international operations removed • Flexible and liberalized ‘open skies’ and ‘code share’ agreements • Incentives to MRO sector to develop as hub for South Asia • Ensuring availability of quality certified 3.3 lakh skilled personnel by 2025 • Development of green-field airports and heliports • Enhancing ease of doing business through deregulation, simplified procedures and e-governance • Promoting ‘Make In India’ in Civil Aviation Sector The policy is very comprehensive, covering 22 areas of the Civil Aviation sector. Its salient features are as follows : ! This scheme will come into effect in the

8

b) Reduced Service tax on tickets (on 10% of the taxable value) for 1 year initially c) Reduced Excise duty at 2% on ATF picked at RCS airports d) State government will provide police and fire services free of cost. Power, water and other utilities at concessional rates ! Creation of Regional Connectivity fund for VGF through a small levy per departure on all domestic flights other than Cat II/ Cat IIA routes, RCS routes and small aircraft below 80 seats at a

rate as decided by the Ministry from time to time ! VGF to be shared between MoCA and State Governments in the ratio of 80:20.

For the North Eastern States, the ratio is 90:10

Route Dispersal Guidelines (RDG) ! Category I to be rationalized based on a transparent criteria, i.e., flying distance of more than 700km, average seat factor of 70% and above and annual traffic of 5 lakh passengers ! The percentage of Cat.I traffic to be deployed on Cat.II, and IIA will remain the same while for CATIII it will be 35%.

Routes to Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh included in Category II ! Revised categorization to apply from winter schedule of 2017 ! There view of routes will be done by MoCA once every 5 years ! Withdrawal or revision of domestic operations to and within North East Region etc, subject to full compliance of RDG, can be done under prior intimation to MoCA at least three months before withdrawal or revision of the service

5/20 Requirement ! Replaced with a scheme which provides a level playing field ! All airlines can now commence international operations provided that they deploy 20 aircraft or 20% of total capacity (in term of average number of seats on all departures put together), whichever is higher for domestic operations

Bilateral Traffic Rights ! GoI will enter into 'Open Sky' ASA on a

reciprocal basis with SAARC countries and countries located beyond 5000 km from Delhi ! For countries within 5000 km radius, where the Indian carriers have not

replaced by a new framework: ! The airport operator will ensure that

there will be three Ground Handling Agencies (GHA) including Air India's subsidiary/JV at all major airports as defined in AERA Act ! At non-major airports, the airport operator to decide on the number of ground handling agencies, based on the traffic output, airside and terminal building capacity ! All domestic scheduled airline operators including helicopter operators will be free to carry out self-handling at all airports through their regular employees ! Hiring of employees through manpower supplier or contract workers will not be permitted for security reasons

Airport PPP/AAI ! Encourage development of airports by

AAI, State Governments, the private sector or in PPP mode ! Future tariffs at all airports will be calculated on a 'hybrid till' basis, unless specified otherwise in concession agreements. 30% of non-aeronautical revenue will be used to cross- subsidise aeronautical charges ! Increase non-aeronautical revenue by better utilisation of commercial opportunities of city side land ! AAI to be compensated in case a new greenfield airport is approved in future within a 150 km radius of an existing unsaturated operational AAI airport (not applicable to civil enclaves)

Aviation Security, Immigration and customs ! MoCA will develop 'service delivery modules' for aviation security, Immigration, Customs, quarantine officers etc in consultations with

be notified by DGCA after due stakeholder consultation ! MoCA to coordinate with Govt agencies and other helicopter operators to facilitate Helicopter Emergency Medical Services ! Helicopters will be free to fly from point to point without prior ATC clearance in airspace below 5000 feet and areas other than controlled or prohibited or restricted airspace ! Airport charges for helicopter operations will be suitably rationalized ! The existing policy of allowing Inclusive tour package charters will be further reviewed to include more categories of passenger charter flights recognised globally.

Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul The MRO business of Indian carriers is around Rs 5000 crore, 90% of which is currently spent outside India. In the budget for 2016-17, customs duty has been rationalised and the procedure for clearance of goods simplified. Further incentives proposed in the policy to give a push to this sector: ! MoCA will persuade State Governments to make VAT zero- rated on MRO activities ! Provision for adequate land for MRO service providers will be made in all future airport/heliport projects where potential for such MRO services exists ! Airport royalty and additional charges will not be levied on MRO service providers for a period of five years from the date of approval of the policy

Aviation Education and Skill Building Estimated direct additional employment requirement of the Civil Aviation Sector by 2025 is about 3.3 lakh . All training in non licensed category will conform to National Skill Qualification Framework standards. MoCA will provide full support to the Aviation Sector Skill Council and other similar organisations/ agencies for imparting skills for the growing aviation industry. There are nearly 8000 pilots holding CPL but who have not found any regular employment.

MoCA will develop a scheme with budgetary support for Type- rating of Pilots. The detailed scheme will be worked out separately.

July - August, 2016

9

INSIGHT

An Unique Experience At

Let's Talk Madhya Pradesh

Desert Springs Resort Sam Dunes, Jaisalmer

MP Recreates the Magic of the Heart of India

Recently Desert Spring Resort & Hotel Priya, Jaisalmer with cooperation of Niche India had organized an exclusive educational tours for selected tour operators from Delhi from 11th to 14th March,2016. And I was also invited as

journalist and represent trade members.

The event was hosted by Mr. Mayank Bhatia, Managing Director of Desert Spring Resort & Hotel Priya with purpose to showcase his properties in Jaisalmer to the travel trade. He had also worked out a very detailed program for the visiting delegation and give them enough opportunity to interact.

We left by train (Jaisalmer Express) on 11th March evening whole journey was full of excitement where Mr. Raman Sharma, Director, Niche India made special food from IRCTC. Best part was the reception on arrival and very comfortable road journey towards Desert Spring Camping Resort.

The tents were of great comforts big, well laid beds, Tea/Cookies, Service/WiFi, Writing desk and balcony to enjoy cool weather in early morning and evening. Welcome drinks, alcoholic

10

DOMESTIC NEWS

July - August, 2016

drinks and food in the lunch was appetizing.

Whole effort here was symbolizing the spirit of Rajasthan. The property is set over 4 acre area with Rajasthan village décor showcasing a spacious ambience

with state of art facilities. The open square area with village wall decors, floor decors give a mesmerizing look.

Nearby dining areas has modern amenities including bar service.

The camping site situated in Sam Dunes deeply rooted in traditional culture extending music and heritage with intimate settings with professional service. This camp resort also provides Spa and rejuvenation massage therapies. Thus blend combination of comfort and rejuvenation. I found, this could be an ideal choice for corporate meetings, incentives visits and wedding events and as Honeymoon destination.

Even for children there are safe play areas and offer family discounts. So soon after lunch, left for Jeep Safari (as good we see in Dubai) with local performances at the dunes accompanied by Mr. Bhatia. He is a store

house of knowledge and kept on telling the folktales of the region took us to Desert National Park nearer to border areas, the deserted township at Kaldhura and visit to various other Camps and Sam dunes. Evening is the great time to spend with unique cultural programme Queen Harish made very e n t h ra l l i n g p e r fo r m a n c e , l o c a l instrumental performances and folk dances kept us spell bound. We all joined the dancer and this participation revitalized us to enjoy Rajasthan dinner, Ambiance created lingered in our mind.

Next morning, the breakfast in the special area was Royal Spread. I liked

Poha, Chole-Bhature and continental food also. I became great eater when you see such a great spread. I say it was “WOW” when we talk of Desert Springs.

With Golden Fort, Havelies, Gadsisar Lake. We walked a lot inside the fort,

bargained at local shops what an experience. My only advice keep it up and give a good package price. They are the best in the region with varied amenities. I worshipped at M a h a r a j a ’s C h a m u n d a Temple, bought Rajasthani print dress material for my daughter a great place for shopping. The last words about the tour is that each and every participating members came back with happy memories of the hospitality of Mr. Mayank Bhatia and special taken care by Mr. Raman Sharma and Desert Spring operational team led by Mr Chagan Singh Rathore.

Let Jaisalmer be your next holiday destination this winter, real time for exploring when Sky is blue and Sun light is very refreshing, chose Hotel Priya (a royal rendezvous in city and 5/6 days at Desert Springs San Dunes Jaisalmer. For booking contact Mr. Raman Sharma, Niche India, Mobile No. 9313013050 / 9818575358.

www.safariplus.co.in

Madhya Pradesh Tourism Corporation held a road show in Mumbai on 10 June, 2016 to present to the Travel Agents, a glimpse into the heart of India. A press conference was organized prior to the road show. The occasion was graced by AMD of M.P. Tourism, Ms. Tanvi Sundriyal. The grand road show, gave a quick detour to the rich and diverse heritage of Madhya Pradesh and the city of dreams was dazzled.

Madhya Pradesh has always had a variety of attractions to offer. From being the state with the largest forest area cover of 77,700 sq.kms filled with Sal Trees & Bamboos to wildlife hotspots with 9 National parks & 25 Wildlife sanctuaries such as Satpura Wildlife Sanctuary and Chambal Ghadiyal Sanctuary and 3 UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Khajuraho, Bhimbetka and Sanchi, MP has something to offer to anyone with a wanderlust. Beautiful architectural sites such as Gwalior and Mandu, mesmerizing water bodies like lndrasagar, Bansagar, Tawa and fun filled Cultural Events Khajuraho Dance festival, Malwa Utsav, Tansen Festival,

Allauddin Music fest, MP leaves no stone unturned to captivate your heart and imagination. Madhya Pradesh is home to Omkareshwar and Ujjain, the city of the holy Shipra River where the Auspicious Simhastha Kumbh Mela, which happens once in 12 years, recently took place.

Bhopal and Burhanpur boast of the Muslim Mughal Architecture and history and they are truly a state of many cultures, religions & traditions.

Malwa and Nimar Regions are renowned for their hand Block printed cotton textiles, famously known as Bagh Prints and Chanderi and certain unique features such as Worlds first Broad gauge Rail Restaurant and 'Sair Sapata' at Bhopal & "Holiday on Wheels” by Caravan Tourism are also gaining popularity. Jal Mahotsav February 2016

by M P Tourism was one of their stunning contributions to the nation and several magnum opuses have been shot in M.P, credits to the mesmerizing locations.

Uttar Pradesh voted as

MP Tourism has made policies and incentives to promote various tourism projects in the state and to facilitate their easy implementation. The main amongst them are its forward looking Wayside Amenity policy, land allotment policy and incentive for heritage projects. Incidentally, bids are out for 3 heritage projects. MP Tourism has also facilitated the National Conventions of IATO, ATOI and ADTOI in Madhya Pradesh. 2015-16 was celebrated as the “MP Tourism Year” which focused on all tourism parameters.

The Road show gave the city an insight to the heart of the nation and the culture, heritage and diversity. The vibrant and organized rally grabbed eye balls all the way.

“It gives MP Tourism board great pleasure to host a road show at Mumbai and to educate the residents around the city about the prosperous, diverse and colourful blend of cultures of Madhya Pradesh.

There is a reason why we are called the heart of the nation and it's not just geographical. M P is a mirror of the nation since we represent multi-lingual, multi-cultural, and multireligion lifestyles and we take great pride in our versatility. The idea behind such an initiative is to urge more and more people from this city to come and visit the beautiful Madhya Pradesh. We hope to see more and more people from Maharashtra visiting MP”, AMD of MP Tourism Tanvi Sundriyal stated in the press conference.

NAMASTAAI Released

Best Indian Destination for Culture TAAI's TRAVEL & TOURISM Initiative Govt. of Uttar Pradesh received the' Lonely Planet Awards of Best Indian Destination for Culture'.

Uttar Pradesh has been selected as the 'Best Indian destination for Culture' by prestigious international travel magazine Lonely Planet.

Mr. Navneet Sehgal on behalf of UP in Mumbai received the award.

A state government spokesman said

www.safariplus.co.in

Uttar Pradesh was selected on the basis of a conventional survey as well as an online feedback survey conducted by the magazine.

NAMASTAAI was released

by Dr Mahesh Sharma, Hon'ble Minister for Tourism & Culture and State Minister for Civil Aviation at a wellattended event at New Delhi on the 6th of June, 2016.

The 84 page magazine has a variety of content. It will help share best practices of our own members who have accomplished outstanding feat in the industry - TAAI TRAILBLAZERS. Some

highlights of the magzine will be - TAAI TORCHBEARERS, TAAI TRENDS, TAAI TALK, TAAI TOURISM and TAAI TUTELAGE.

July - August, 2016

11

!" #

!"

%$ ! " #$% ) * " * ) - & ) , , * + ) & ,, * ,

&7& "

* " * 8 ,9 , * 7 , ++ & 7 , & :

* * , ;;";$$ 8&9 0 ) < ) 9 #= > , ,

! "

? 5 2 3 >

* @ # $

% ! &

7 * & 0 , , , "'

" + * 9 * " 0 * " 2 # $

' ( ) "

7

, ) * & 7 * &

'

($$ " ,

+

) ,

# !

, )) , %# " , 9 ) , & % %

* , ,

, " * & ' . * 0 ,9 ) , A " 9 0 * 7 , 8 , > 0 * * . . ) 0 ) B > C

* * ) ) & , : #$%

7 * ,

* ) &7" , + * , &

!

,

(

! "! -% %

" (

, 1 ' 0 - & 5 7

, 0 -

) *

* + / 7 &

-

57

, & * ) 9

5 7 ,

,

,9 , ,

* + &

7 ) , , ) ) D , , ) & * 9 * > ) , " ) , , * ) D , & - , " ? * ) D , & 7 , - 3" 3- 3- 7 & #$%= % ,

E 7 F C , , ) &

. * , * , " * &

* + *

& E- * 7

* )

, , ) ) " ,

, 7 &

, D * * ) , & 7 , ) * " , " * 9 * ) & , * ) ) , ,

7 & > ) ) ) * 7C" 7

) , , &

! " #$% & '( ) * * + , & - ) ) , ,

,, ) * - . -/0/ 12. &

* * *+ - 3.

02 .2. " - .2 " - /4" - 35.- - 5 2/ 62&

TRADE PLUS

DOMESTIC PLUS Tiger Express Train launched on the World Environment Day

Polaris Experience Zone Tao Experiences, Malad, For adventure lovers an off-road adventure track

Polaris India Pvt. Ltd, a wholly owned subsidiary of Polaris Industries Inc., the world leader in Off-Road and All-Terrain Vehicles, has taken the adventure quotient for enthusiasts in Mumbai a notch higher by opening another exciting off-road adventure track (Polaris Experience Zone) in the region.

This is the 6th Polaris Experience Zone in the state of Maharashtra and 3rd in the city of Mumbai, after Virar and Borivali.

The inauguration of Tao Experiences at Roaring Farm in Malad west, Mumbai takes the overall tally of Polaris

Experience Zones to 54 in India.

Spread over an area of 5 acres, Tao Experiences is located in the suburban area of Malad in Northern Mumbai. It not only offers visitors the thrill and exhilaration of Polaris vehicles on a dirt track with slush pit, humps, sand and stones, but it also serves as an apt place for families looking to spend quality time with adventure. With exciting outdoor activities like paintball, zorbing, low rope course, bungee run, wall climbing, archery among others, the place ensures adrenaline pumping action and

a fun-filled packed itinerary for visitors from all age groups.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Pankaj Dubey, Managing Director, Polaris India Pvt. Ltd., said, “Polaris Experience Zones are pivotal pit stops in our journey of promoting adventure sports in the country. Polaris has lined up its heart thumping series of power sport vehicles at Tao Experiences where hard-core adventure enthusiasts can experience the thrill of off-roading. So, if you are looking to tap into your adventurous streak, just check out the amazing Polaris Off-Road vehicles at this new facility.”

Tao Experiences is equipped with artificially created undulated tracks with slush pits providing riders with a

challenging and exciting trail for fun.

The presence of skilled trainers at the facility makes sure that the rider gets a chance to experience the ATV's (All Terrain Vehicle) and feel the adrenaline rush within a safe environment. These trainers not only ensure complete safety of the riders but also help them in honing their ATV riding skills.

Polaris Off-Road vehicles are specially engineered to travel on rough and uneven roads. They are widely used in sectors such as defence, paramilitary forces, agriculture, entertainment and tourism, among others. These vehicles are capable of providing a smooth drive even on rocky, slushy, desert and muddy surfaces.

Minister of Railways Shri Suresh Prabhakar Prabhu flagged off the inaugural run of the Tiger Trail Circuit Train from Delhi Safdarjung Station.

Shri Suresh Prabhu flagged off this train through video conferencing between Mumbai and Delhi.

The launch of this Tiger Express on World Environment Day is to highlight the significance of environment in our lives. The Railway Minister took personal interest in conceptualizing this train.

This tourist train will be operated by Indian Railway PSU namely Indian R a i l w ay C a t e r i n g a n d To u r i s m Corporation (IRCTC).

Speaking on the occasion, the Railway Minister Shri Suresh Prabhu said that Indian Railways is fully committed to address environmental issues. Shri Suresh Prabhu pointed out that, he on assuming charge took the initiative of creating a separate, dedicated Environment Directorate in the Ministry of Railways. He said that the Railway Ministry is taking several measures with view to be more environmental friendly.

Referring to the Tiger Express which was launched today Shri Suresh Prabhu said that tiger is at the apex of the food chain which has tremendous ecological impact and hence it is befitting to launch a train focused on this subject. Shri Suresh Prabhu announced that Indian Railways through its PSU IRCTC will launch more tourist circuit trains like elephant circuit, desert circuit etc.

Salient features of the Tiger Express: ! The launch of the ‘Tiger Express’ is in tune with the announcement in this regard in the Railway Budget 2016-17.

The objective of the train is to create awareness about our national animal,

the Tiger. ! The ‘Tiger Express’ is one of the most innovative tourism products ever launched by Indian Railways. ! The Indian Tiger has always allured tourists from both India and abroad. The semi-luxury train will take the guests o n b o a rd to t h e wo r l d fa m o u s Bandhavgarh and Kanha National Parks in Madhya Pradesh. ! The Kanha National Park is known for the presence of tigers, Swamp Deer, and the Barasingha. It is also recognized as the source of inspiration for the famous writer Rudyard Kipling for his famous novel, “The Jungle Book”. ! The Bandhavgarh National Park is known for its biodiversity. The density of the tiger population at Bandhavgarh is one of the highest known in India. The park has a large breeding population of leopards and various species of deer. ! The 5 days / 6 nights itinerary of the Tiger Express includes three Tiger Safaris, and it gives ample opportunity to the tourists to have a sight of the majestic wild cats in their natural environs and a spectacular view of the wildlife. ! The 5th June, 2016 trip of the Tiger Express is the inaugural run of this train.

Regular Monthly trips of the fully airconditioned train, which has been vinylwrapped with motifs of the wildlife, are to begin from October, 2016 onwards. ! The most important objective of the train is to create and spread awareness about the wildlife in general and the tiger in particular. An added attraction of the trip is a visit to the famous Dhuadhar

Falls in Bhedaghat, Jabalpur.

! IRCTC has been designated to execute the entire itinerary. They have been efficiently conducting a variety of tour programmes like the ‘Desert Circuit’ in Rajasthan and the ‘Heritage Circuit’ in North India. This is for the first time that Indian Railways have forayed into the exciting and fascinating wildlife tourism. ! The itinerary has been chalked out in a manner that the guests not only enjoy a comfortable travel but also spend considerable time of the trip in the midst of Nature. The package includes journey by the exclusive semi luxury air conditioned train, accommodation in air-conditioned rooms of three star equivalent hotels for three nights (one night in Bandhavgarh and two nights in Kanha in Mogli Resorts), sightseeing and road transportation by AC vehicles, buffet meals, game safaris, inter-city transfers and travel insurance. ! This is also the first semi-luxury train on a tourist circuit having a dining car.

The objective behind it is to facilitate frequent interactions among travellers during the travel. No other semi-luxury train is equipped with a dining car.

Fare Structure: For travelling in 1AC, tariff has been fixed at Rs 49,500 for single occupancy, Rs 45,500 for double occupancy, Rs 44,900 for triple occupancy and Rs 39,500 for child with bed (5-11 years). The fares for those travelling in AC 2-tier is Rs 43,500 for single occupancy, Rs 39,000 for double occupancy, Rs 38,500 for triple

occupancy and Rs 33,500 for child with bed (5-11 years).

However, these rates are valid for Indian citizens only. An additional surcharge of Rs. 4,000 per person will be charged from foreigners for the Safari booking at Bandhagarh and Kanha.

Itinerary: Day 1 (Sunday) Delhi Safdarjung (15:00 hrs)- Departure from Delhi's Safdarjung Railway Station at 1500 hrs. Dinner & Overnight on board.

Day 2 (Monday) Katni (05:40 hrs )- Arrive Katni Railway Station @ 0540 hrs.

Breakfast on board, proceed for Bandhavgarh for hotel check in & lunch.

Later proceed for evening safari (Khitauli Zone). Dinner & overnight at Bandhavgarh Hotel.

Day 3 (Tuesday) Bandhavgarh – Kanha (11:00 hrs)- Proceed for Kanha. Check in & lunch at Hotel. Later proceed for evening safari (Mukki Zone). Dinner & overnight at Hotel.

Day 4 (Wednesday) Kanha - Morning safari (Mukki Zone) in Kanha late morning Breakfast. Lunch at Hotel.

Evening time for leisure. Dinner & overnight at Hotel.

Day 5 (Thursday) Kanha – Jabalpur (22:05 hrs) - After Breakfast proceed for Jabalpur (135 Kms Approx). Lunch at Hotel in Jabalpur. Proceed for Dhuadhar Waterfall in Bedhaghat. High Tea in the evening before proceeding to Train Station. Dinner & overnight on board.

Day 6 (Friday) Delhi Safdarjung (15:50 hrs) - Breakfast and Lunch on board.

Arrive at Delhi Safdarjung Railway Station by 1550 hrs. Tour Ends with Happy Memories.

Booking Information: The Online Booking of this train can be done on I RC TC To u r i s m Po r ta l w w w. irctctouris m. com o r tourism@irctc.com. For further information, one may dial toll-free number 1800110139 or 9717645648

AP Tourism promotes Srikalahasteeswara Temple Andhra Pradesh Tourism is promoting the surrounding temples and sightseeing around Tirupati. And Srikalahasteeswara Temple is one, as a part of Tirupati and Beyond.

Srikalahasteeswara Temple, located in Chittoor District of Andhra Pradesh is more than 1000 years old. It is situated just 20 km from Tirupati airport.

This magnificent temple which was successively developed by the Pallavas and Chola Kings and the Vijayanagara e m p e ro rs i s re n o w n e d fo r i t s architectural beauty. It is also well known for its Kaal Sarp Dosh puja also known as the Rahu – ketu puja.

Performed everyday for thousand of devotees, the 45 minutes puja is done to remove the ill effects of planetary

12

July - August, 2016

www.safariplus.co.in

www.safariplus.co.in

movements of Graha Dosha as is regarded in Hinduism. The temple has its own Goshala (holy cow shed) and ample facilities for accommodation and boarding facility. There is also Kund ( r e s e r v o i r ) w h e r e B h a ra d w a j a Maharshi sat on Tapas (meditation).

Rahu Kaal is the best time to visit Srikalahasteeswara Temple and perform Kaal Sarp Dosh puja, as the timings are considered to be very powerful. The puja are performed right from 6.30 am in the morning and continues till 6 pm in the evening.

Fo r d e ta i l s l o g i nto : http://gotirupati.com/sri-kalahastirahu-ketu-pooja.

Srikalahasteeswara Temple is also well known for its 10 days long Mahashivratri

celebrations held during the months of February or March. Located close to the temple just a one hour drive away, is the picturesque Pulicat Lake, which is renowned for its beautiful bird sanctuary where one can admire the migratory birds. On the other side of Kalahastee temple as about 40 km away, is the world famous Balaji shrine of

Tirupati. These temples are well connected by air, road and rail to all parts of the country.

From Tirupati, the Kalahastee temple is easily accessible through both train and roads. At a location about 38 km from the north of Tirupati central, you can reach the town through any of the VijayawadaTirupati trains.

July - August, 2016 13

TRADE PLUS

DOMESTIC PLUS Tiger Express Train launched on the World Environment Day

Polaris Experience Zone Tao Experiences, Malad, For adventure lovers an off-road adventure track

Polaris India Pvt. Ltd, a wholly owned subsidiary of Polaris Industries Inc., the world leader in Off-Road and All-Terrain Vehicles, has taken the adventure quotient for enthusiasts in Mumbai a notch higher by opening another exciting off-road adventure track (Polaris Experience Zone) in the region.

This is the 6th Polaris Experience Zone in the state of Maharashtra and 3rd in the city of Mumbai, after Virar and Borivali.

The inauguration of Tao Experiences at Roaring Farm in Malad west, Mumbai takes the overall tally of Polaris

Experience Zones to 54 in India.

Spread over an area of 5 acres, Tao Experiences is located in the suburban area of Malad in Northern Mumbai. It not only offers visitors the thrill and exhilaration of Polaris vehicles on a dirt track with slush pit, humps, sand and stones, but it also serves as an apt place for families looking to spend quality time with adventure. With exciting outdoor activities like paintball, zorbing, low rope course, bungee run, wall climbing, archery among others, the place ensures adrenaline pumping action and

a fun-filled packed itinerary for visitors from all age groups.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Pankaj Dubey, Managing Director, Polaris India Pvt. Ltd., said, “Polaris Experience Zones are pivotal pit stops in our journey of promoting adventure sports in the country. Polaris has lined up its heart thumping series of power sport vehicles at Tao Experiences where hard-core adventure enthusiasts can experience the thrill of off-roading. So, if you are looking to tap into your adventurous streak, just check out the amazing Polaris Off-Road vehicles at this new facility.”

Tao Experiences is equipped with artificially created undulated tracks with slush pits providing riders with a

challenging and exciting trail for fun.

The presence of skilled trainers at the facility makes sure that the rider gets a chance to experience the ATV's (All Terrain Vehicle) and feel the adrenaline rush within a safe environment. These trainers not only ensure complete safety of the riders but also help them in honing their ATV riding skills.

Polaris Off-Road vehicles are specially engineered to travel on rough and uneven roads. They are widely used in sectors such as defence, paramilitary forces, agriculture, entertainment and tourism, among others. These vehicles are capable of providing a smooth drive even on rocky, slushy, desert and muddy surfaces.

Minister of Railways Shri Suresh Prabhakar Prabhu flagged off the inaugural run of the Tiger Trail Circuit Train from Delhi Safdarjung Station.

Shri Suresh Prabhu flagged off this train through video conferencing between Mumbai and Delhi.

The launch of this Tiger Express on World Environment Day is to highlight the significance of environment in our lives. The Railway Minister took personal interest in conceptualizing this train.

This tourist train will be operated by Indian Railway PSU namely Indian R a i l w ay C a t e r i n g a n d To u r i s m Corporation (IRCTC).

Speaking on the occasion, the Railway Minister Shri Suresh Prabhu said that Indian Railways is fully committed to address environmental issues. Shri Suresh Prabhu pointed out that, he on assuming charge took the initiative of creating a separate, dedicated Environment Directorate in the Ministry of Railways. He said that the Railway Ministry is taking several measures with view to be more environmental friendly.

Referring to the Tiger Express which was launched today Shri Suresh Prabhu said that tiger is at the apex of the food chain which has tremendous ecological impact and hence it is befitting to launch a train focused on this subject. Shri Suresh Prabhu announced that Indian Railways through its PSU IRCTC will launch more tourist circuit trains like elephant circuit, desert circuit etc.

Salient features of the Tiger Express: ! The launch of the ‘Tiger Express’ is in tune with the announcement in this regard in the Railway Budget 2016-17.

The objective of the train is to create awareness about our national animal,

the Tiger. ! The ‘Tiger Express’ is one of the most innovative tourism products ever launched by Indian Railways. ! The Indian Tiger has always allured tourists from both India and abroad. The semi-luxury train will take the guests o n b o a rd to t h e wo r l d fa m o u s Bandhavgarh and Kanha National Parks in Madhya Pradesh. ! The Kanha National Park is known for the presence of tigers, Swamp Deer, and the Barasingha. It is also recognized as the source of inspiration for the famous writer Rudyard Kipling for his famous novel, “The Jungle Book”. ! The Bandhavgarh National Park is known for its biodiversity. The density of the tiger population at Bandhavgarh is one of the highest known in India. The park has a large breeding population of leopards and various species of deer. ! The 5 days / 6 nights itinerary of the Tiger Express includes three Tiger Safaris, and it gives ample opportunity to the tourists to have a sight of the majestic wild cats in their natural environs and a spectacular view of the wildlife. ! The 5th June, 2016 trip of the Tiger Express is the inaugural run of this train.

Regular Monthly trips of the fully airconditioned train, which has been vinylwrapped with motifs of the wildlife, are to begin from October, 2016 onwards. ! The most important objective of the train is to create and spread awareness about the wildlife in general and the tiger in particular. An added attraction of the trip is a visit to the famous Dhuadhar

Falls in Bhedaghat, Jabalpur.

! IRCTC has been designated to execute the entire itinerary. They have been efficiently conducting a variety of tour programmes like the ‘Desert Circuit’ in Rajasthan and the ‘Heritage Circuit’ in North India. This is for the first time that Indian Railways have forayed into the exciting and fascinating wildlife tourism. ! The itinerary has been chalked out in a manner that the guests not only enjoy a comfortable travel but also spend considerable time of the trip in the midst of Nature. The package includes journey by the exclusive semi luxury air conditioned train, accommodation in air-conditioned rooms of three star equivalent hotels for three nights (one night in Bandhavgarh and two nights in Kanha in Mogli Resorts), sightseeing and road transportation by AC vehicles, buffet meals, game safaris, inter-city transfers and travel insurance. ! This is also the first semi-luxury train on a tourist circuit having a dining car.

The objective behind it is to facilitate frequent interactions among travellers during the travel. No other semi-luxury train is equipped with a dining car.

Fare Structure: For travelling in 1AC, tariff has been fixed at Rs 49,500 for single occupancy, Rs 45,500 for double occupancy, Rs 44,900 for triple occupancy and Rs 39,500 for child with bed (5-11 years). The fares for those travelling in AC 2-tier is Rs 43,500 for single occupancy, Rs 39,000 for double occupancy, Rs 38,500 for triple

occupancy and Rs 33,500 for child with bed (5-11 years).

However, these rates are valid for Indian citizens only. An additional surcharge of Rs. 4,000 per person will be charged from foreigners for the Safari booking at Bandhagarh and Kanha.

Itinerary: Day 1 (Sunday) Delhi Safdarjung (15:00 hrs)- Departure from Delhi's Safdarjung Railway Station at 1500 hrs. Dinner & Overnight on board.

Day 2 (Monday) Katni (05:40 hrs )- Arrive Katni Railway Station @ 0540 hrs.

Breakfast on board, proceed for Bandhavgarh for hotel check in & lunch.

Later proceed for evening safari (Khitauli Zone). Dinner & overnight at Bandhavgarh Hotel.

Day 3 (Tuesday) Bandhavgarh – Kanha (11:00 hrs)- Proceed for Kanha. Check in & lunch at Hotel. Later proceed for evening safari (Mukki Zone). Dinner & overnight at Hotel.

Day 4 (Wednesday) Kanha - Morning safari (Mukki Zone) in Kanha late morning Breakfast. Lunch at Hotel.

Evening time for leisure. Dinner & overnight at Hotel.

Day 5 (Thursday) Kanha – Jabalpur (22:05 hrs) - After Breakfast proceed for Jabalpur (135 Kms Approx). Lunch at Hotel in Jabalpur. Proceed for Dhuadhar Waterfall in Bedhaghat. High Tea in the evening before proceeding to Train Station. Dinner & overnight on board.

Day 6 (Friday) Delhi Safdarjung (15:50 hrs) - Breakfast and Lunch on board.

Arrive at Delhi Safdarjung Railway Station by 1550 hrs. Tour Ends with Happy Memories.

Booking Information: The Online Booking of this train can be done on I RC TC To u r i s m Po r ta l w w w. irctctouris m. com o r tourism@irctc.com. For further information, one may dial toll-free number 1800110139 or 9717645648

AP Tourism promotes Srikalahasteeswara Temple Andhra Pradesh Tourism is promoting the surrounding temples and sightseeing around Tirupati. And Srikalahasteeswara Temple is one, as a part of Tirupati and Beyond.

Srikalahasteeswara Temple, located in Chittoor District of Andhra Pradesh is more than 1000 years old. It is situated just 20 km from Tirupati airport.

This magnificent temple which was successively developed by the Pallavas and Chola Kings and the Vijayanagara e m p e ro rs i s re n o w n e d fo r i t s architectural beauty. It is also well known for its Kaal Sarp Dosh puja also known as the Rahu – ketu puja.

Performed everyday for thousand of devotees, the 45 minutes puja is done to remove the ill effects of planetary

12

July - August, 2016

www.safariplus.co.in

www.safariplus.co.in

movements of Graha Dosha as is regarded in Hinduism. The temple has its own Goshala (holy cow shed) and ample facilities for accommodation and boarding facility. There is also Kund ( r e s e r v o i r ) w h e r e B h a ra d w a j a Maharshi sat on Tapas (meditation).

Rahu Kaal is the best time to visit Srikalahasteeswara Temple and perform Kaal Sarp Dosh puja, as the timings are considered to be very powerful. The puja are performed right from 6.30 am in the morning and continues till 6 pm in the evening.

Fo r d e ta i l s l o g i nto : http://gotirupati.com/sri-kalahastirahu-ketu-pooja.

Srikalahasteeswara Temple is also well known for its 10 days long Mahashivratri

celebrations held during the months of February or March. Located close to the temple just a one hour drive away, is the picturesque Pulicat Lake, which is renowned for its beautiful bird sanctuary where one can admire the migratory birds. On the other side of Kalahastee temple as about 40 km away, is the world famous Balaji shrine of

Tirupati. These temples are well connected by air, road and rail to all parts of the country.

From Tirupati, the Kalahastee temple is easily accessible through both train and roads. At a location about 38 km from the north of Tirupati central, you can reach the town through any of the VijayawadaTirupati trains.

July - August, 2016 13

$% &#

3 7

:

= ,

>

% ? & ( % & & &

(

(

,

3 :+=,5 %

3 %

&

&

& ( &

&

5

% 3 %

3 %

3 %

,

3 :+=,5

%

.

3 :+=,5

% '

# (

)

# ( *

+ # (

( )

# ( )

(

# ( %

+ # (

,

!

+

& '

! ' %

"

-. / "

! 3 %

= 3 0

) (

) (

% =3! 2

% %

- % &

*

+ ( 1

+ (

% 3 % &

% ? #$$

# (

(

#; % 3 %

- /

-

= %,

$

3 %

%

2 7 3 %

!

,

! 3 %

- %

'

&

& 0: ' @ 8 : '

-

-

% - 4 & ' 4 & : @

+ %& A

& 7 %% & %

3 %

@ & 3 :+=,5 7 %

+

& B

%

&

!

" +

4

6

6 6

0.

&8 #

! & & !

3 " , /

9$ &

& % 3 &

%

!51& - & !

3 " & & 3 : % %

& & &

!

& 3 %

; #$

3 3 +

&

. +

,

% ;$<

3 3 : /

7

! " ! !

#$

% &

&

"

'

%

%&

& &

(

#)

&*$$ ( (

+

(

#)

&

%

& & &

, - .

& + !

, / & 01

&

%

%

! " , 2 3

"

$

4+!5

. 6

3 7 /

%

8

HOSPITALITY PLUS

W Goa

Opening September 1, 2016

ARMENIA Armenia is a country of old legends and Biblical stories. It has served as a cross road of the East and West for 10 centuries as a bridge between Asia and Europe. Landlocked, Armenia is bordered by Turkey to the west, Georgia to the north, Iran to the south, Azerbaijan to the east, and Azerbaijan's Naxcivan exclave to the southwest.

Ancient geographers called the Armenian Highlands the "Island of Mountains" or the "Rooftop of Asia Minor." Armenia has hundreds of unique Christian monuments, amazing sites, waterfalls, Skyscraping Mountains and wonderful people with rich heritage and warm hospitality. The blue Lake Sevan and a shining sun almost eight months of the year will be your friendly guide throughout Armenia. Lake Sevan is by far the largest body of water in Armenia, accounting for 5% of the country's land area. Even the fruits carry the spice and smell of the sun.

Yerevan, the capital of Armenia, is marked by grand Soviet-era architecture. Life today in Yerevan is assimilated with the harmonious fusion of past and present. The people take great pride in their traditions, culture, religion, arts and crafts, delicious cuisine and sincere hospitality. From museums to theaters, an opera house, parks, restaurants, open cafes, casinos, discos, clubs, jazz restaurants, and other entertainment spots, Yerevan is alive, bustling and inviting. Most of all, the warmth and friendly manner of the people will make your visit unforgettable. One visit is never enough.

Don’t be surprised if you book your next visit to Armenia while you are still in Armenia.

Heritage of Armenia Armenian Cultural Heritage of Humanity complied by the UNESCO - The Ec h m i a d z i n C at h e d ra l a n d t h e Archaeological Site of Zvartnots.

Cathedral is considered to be one of the oldest Christian churches in the world.

Since 2000 the oldest Echmiadzin Cathedral is a part of the UNESCO World Heritage List. Geghard Monastery

18

July - August, 2016

c o m p l ex , u n i q u e a r c h i t e c t u ra l construction. The name of the monastery complex comes from the Holy Spear that pierced the body of Jesus Christ on the cross and allegedly was brought to Armenia by Apostle Thaddeus, among many other relics.

Now, the spear is in Echmiadzin Museum. Monasteries of Haghpat and Sanahin - The two monastic complexes represent the highest flowering of Armenian religious architecture, whose unique style developed from a blending of elements of Byzantine ecclesiastical architecture and the traditional vernacular architecture of the Caucasian region. Another pilgrimage site is Khor Virap Monastery, in the foothills of Mt. Ararat, just across the border with Turkey.

To stand on the ‘Silk Road’ The ‘Silk Road’ of about 7000 km of length and of 500 km of width passes through Armenia. At the same time, with the export of an extensive list of local products to distant countries, the goods from outside were imported to Armenia. It is not by chance, that in the early medieval capital of the kingdom-in the Dvina, according to the written sources, took place one of the most famous trade fairs of Chinese silks in the region. Not less vivid evidence of imports to Armenia on the ''Silk Road'' is provided to us with archeology.

Greek, Italian, Mesopotamian ceramics and Syrian glass, jewelry, sculpture, Chinese porcelain and examples of silk fabrics, Indianjewelry, hundreds and hundreds of coins, print stamps of outlandish merchants-clearly delineate the shopping communication of the kingdom along the entire length of the Great Road-from China to Western Europe since ancient times up to the late Middle Ages. Through the present territory of the Republic, along the Ararat valley, passes one of the 3 main branches of the road. It is not by chance, that 5 of the historical capitals of Armenia, including modern Yerevan are located on that particular path. And all of them, as well as Armenia itself are hospitably open to the guests.

Armenian Hospitality The most important attraction in Armenia is the Armenian people. You will be surprised by the fact that these people may smile to you or want to treat you a cup of coffee or lunch, not knowing you. Such are the Armenians-with a big heart and friendly, their doors are always open for guests. They are always welcome, hospitality they have inherited from their ancestors. The phenomenon of guest reception was regarded as a crucial rite. Along with many other nations, among the armenians too, the guest was considered to be a sacred person, in every way he was supposed to bestow honours.

Apricots of the Ararat Valley Apricot, a kind of plum tree. The most common version of the origin of the fruit says, that in the first century BC the Roman general Lucullus called apricots ''Armenian apple'' and took the fruit from Armenia to Rome. The fact that the apricot trees have been growing in Armenia for already 3000 years, confirm the apricot pits, found as a result of excavations in Shengavit and around Garni. Besides the divine taste, apricot is endowed with many useful properties that is why it is called ''the fruit of health''. Armenian ancient phycisians claimed that apricot cures twelve various diseases. The vitamin contained in the fruit - magnesium, potassium, calcium, phosphorus and other useful elements are useful for heart disease, food truck, liver, kidney and vessels.

Apricot helps to improve brain function and memory, that is why it is often advised to schoolchildren and students.

Armenian Wine & Brandy According to the Bible after the Flood Noah's Ark landed on Mount Ararat.

When the water retreated, Noah began to live in the valley with his sons, where they were busy with cultivation of grapes. Since those gray times up to the present days in the valley, at the foot of mount Ararat grow grapes and people make drinks. Local conditions are simply ideal for the cultivation of ''cognac'' grapes. The grapes grow on magnificent soils and the sun shines nearly 300 days

in a year. It can be said that the local product is more a product of the sun rather than of the earth.

Yerevan Brandy Factory was built in 1887 when the merchant Nikolai Tairov (Tairyan) built the first Brandy Factory in the Russian Emipire on the place of the Old Erivan Fortress. Later in 1899 Tairov sold his business to the Russian industrialist Nikolai Shustov. In 1900, Shustov presented it's first product at an Exhibition in Paris and received a Grand Pri. As a sign of respect for the quality of the product, Shustov was allowed to write on his bottles ''cognac'' and not ''brandy'', as it was accepted to call all drinks made from the grapes not growing in the region of Cognac. This was the beginning of a victorious campaign. But to the highest recognition Armenian production came in 1913, when the company ''Shustov and Sons'' was honoured to be in the 30 domestic and foreign businessman list to become a supplier of the court of His Empiral Majesty. In the list of Armenian cognac lovers were included many celebrities such as Sir Winston Churchill. Regular supply of Armenian Cognac ''Dvin'' to the British Prime Minister was personally controlled by Stalin. When the old-aged Churchill was asked what the secret of his longevity was, he answered without hesitation.''Never be late for dinner, smoke Hawaiian cigars and drink Armenian cognac!''

Yerevan Brandy Factory is a perfect place where you can learn about on-site production of cognac making technology and taste this legendary drink.

Shopping

W Goa is part of a global renowned brand, W Hotels Worldwide. Born in New York City in 1998, the brand now has nearly 50 hotels in gateway cities and exotic destinations around the globe including Amsterdam, Bangkok, Hong Kong, London and Maldives.

Inspiring, iconic, innovative and influential, W Hotels provides the ultimate in insider access, offering a unique mix of cutting-edge design and passions around fashion, music and healthy lifestyle with Fuel. W Hotels offers a holistic lifestyle experience that is integrated into the brand's sensibility through contemporary restaurant concepts, stylish retail concepts,

the Pan Asian restaurant, Spice Traders and the all-day dining, The Kitchen Table, which will serve local and international flavours. The bar along the Wet Deck is ideal to sip on cocktails or refuel with healthy smoothies. The Rock Pool, a unique venue carved out of the rocky mountain, is the ideal place to savour the sunset. The FIT gym and Spa

by Clarins will ensure you are feeling refuelled and ready for a calendar of W Happenings showcasing what's new and next in fashion, music and design.

Guests will also experience the brand's iconic Whatever/Whenever® service that delivers whatever they want, whenever they want it.

Meeting & Events - W Goa offers a function space with a 1,362 square metres, be its a wedding or a visionary conference. Two grand ballrooms, a function room, three meeting/VIP rooms, a function lawn and a pre-function area provide enough space for all your guests.

Amplify their experience with our fullyadaptable conference facilities and stateof-the-art audiovisual technology. Engage and energize with our unique W Hotels Meetings Set-up, including mood music, signature scents and more. Fully wired rooms with virtually limitless technology and audiovisual amenities mean you’re within a millisecond of the world you’re influencing.

The Next Generation Qatar’s Al Sawari Holding Yas Viceroy Launches enters India Market The Kids Zone, Generation V Yas Viceroy Abu Dhabi is launching newest child-friendly zone, Generation V in July 2016. Generation V will offer an entertaining, enriching and educational experience for children from 4 up to 12 years old.

A place where young minds are stimulated, Generation V has been carefully designed to allow children to boost their creativity and engagement in the brightly coloured 335 square metre Kids’ Zone which will have imaginations running wild. Featuring a multitude of wall cut-outs and tunnels which interlink the different spaces, the new zone will include sound tubing, wall climbing, play stations, play houses, and a soft play area. It is a place where little ones can expand and push their creativity to new heights by exploring, playing, learning, making friends and most importantly, having fun!

The programme will complement Yas V i c e ro y ’s fa m i l y f r i e n d l y accommodation which includes interconnecting rooms and the recently

Vernissage Market - every Saturday near Republic Square, there is an open market with great shopping for tourists and locals alike. You can buy everything from a 300 year-old carpet to a 1970s Soviet phone to Russian nesting dolls.

The "covered market" on Mashtots Street has fresh fruits and vegetables along with great dried fruits.

To Book your tour, contact the local Tour Operator A&R TOUR E-mail: a r t o u r. a m @ m a i l . r u , Web: www.ar-tour.am

www.safariplus.co.in

signature spas and inspiring residences.

W Goa is spread over 25 acres on the scenic Vagator beach in North Goa. Once, home to the hippies, this laid back beach has evolved into one of the most exciting and vibrant destinations within Goa. From its trendy cafes serving a host of international and local flavours to its fashionable boutiques and eclectic music clubs, there is an aura of creativity and cultural mix, which makes this a destination of choice for those who yearn both.

With a private coastal setting and breathtaking views of the sea and the Chapora Fort, W Goa will offer 160 rooms and villas. Dining options include

www.safariplus.co.in

launched ‘Camp Viceroy’, which allows children to enjoy a one- of-a-kind ‘glamping’ experience in the luxurious surroundings of the five-star hotel. The zone will also solve all parent problems when it comes to planning birthdays, with an adjacent space available especially to host parties, movie nights and so much more. With catering provided by the hotel’s restaurants accompanied by a mixture of hands-on activities, Generation V will provide the perfect party space for kids of all ages.

Family Summer Offer prices and opening hours · Splash or Speed package is available from AED 935++/ night for a Deluxe Room, with unlimited access to Ferrari World or YasWaterworld for up to two adults and two children per room.

This package also gives unlimited access to Generation V. · Generation V will be open from 10.00am-9.00pm, Monday to Saturday. · Guests staying at the hotel can enjoy two hours free of charge per day. The price will then be AED 60 ++ per hour/ per child thereafter. · Guests dining at the hotel can enjoy one hour free of charge. The price will then be AED 60 ++ per hour/ per child thereafter.

Al Sawari Holding, one of Qatar’s leading private companies with interests across hospitality, real estate and education sectors signed a MoU and management agreements to mark its entry into India. The collaborations were formalised on the occasion of Hon’ble Prime Minister of India, Mr. Narendra Modi’s visit to the State of Qatar.

An MoU has been signed by H.E. Sheikh Faisal Bin Qassim Al Thani, Chairman of Al Sawari Holding and Al Faisal Holding and Mr. Vivek Nair, Chairman & Managing Director, The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts. Under this agreement, the Al Sawari Group will purchase a 6 acre site from The Leela Group in the historical city of Agra to develop a hotel complex. The hotel complex will include 2 hotels - a 100 room Leela Palace Hotel and a 150 room Aiana Hotel on the same plot. Al Sawari H o ld in g h a s a ls o entered into management agreements with both the Leela Group as well as Aiana Hotels and Resorts to operate the respective hotels.

“Qatar has a long history of bilateral relations with India and there is a lot of

synergy between the two cultures. We are delighted to enter into these landmark agreements with The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts and Aiana Hotels and Resorts during the historic visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Qatar. We are confident that Al Sawari Holding’s foray into the Indian hospitality industry will further enhance the economic and culture relations between the two countries”, said H. E. Sheikh Faisal Bin Qassim Al Thani, Chairman of Al Sawari Holding and Al Faisal Holding.

“In line with our strategy to acquire key assets in strategic global locations, the property is located less than 1 kilometre from the Taj Mahal and will offer unparalleled views of the historic monument.’

The two new hotels will offer a host of signature restaurants and lounges along with spacious banquet halls and state of the art health centres and spas. Both hotels will cater to the upmarket leisure tourists and the MICE segment.

Construction is expected to commence soon and will be completed within 36 months.

July - August, 2016 19

HOSPITALITY PLUS

W Goa

Opening September 1, 2016

ARMENIA Armenia is a country of old legends and Biblical stories. It has served as a cross road of the East and West for 10 centuries as a bridge between Asia and Europe. Landlocked, Armenia is bordered by Turkey to the west, Georgia to the north, Iran to the south, Azerbaijan to the east, and Azerbaijan's Naxcivan exclave to the southwest.

Ancient geographers called the Armenian Highlands the "Island of Mountains" or the "Rooftop of Asia Minor." Armenia has hundreds of unique Christian monuments, amazing sites, waterfalls, Skyscraping Mountains and wonderful people with rich heritage and warm hospitality. The blue Lake Sevan and a shining sun almost eight months of the year will be your friendly guide throughout Armenia. Lake Sevan is by far the largest body of water in Armenia, accounting for 5% of the country's land area. Even the fruits carry the spice and smell of the sun.

Yerevan, the capital of Armenia, is marked by grand Soviet-era architecture. Life today in Yerevan is assimilated with the harmonious fusion of past and present. The people take great pride in their traditions, culture, religion, arts and crafts, delicious cuisine and sincere hospitality. From museums to theaters, an opera house, parks, restaurants, open cafes, casinos, discos, clubs, jazz restaurants, and other entertainment spots, Yerevan is alive, bustling and inviting. Most of all, the warmth and friendly manner of the people will make your visit unforgettable. One visit is never enough.

Don’t be surprised if you book your next visit to Armenia while you are still in Armenia.

Heritage of Armenia Armenian Cultural Heritage of Humanity complied by the UNESCO - The Ec h m i a d z i n C at h e d ra l a n d t h e Archaeological Site of Zvartnots.

Cathedral is considered to be one of the oldest Christian churches in the world.

Since 2000 the oldest Echmiadzin Cathedral is a part of the UNESCO World Heritage List. Geghard Monastery

18

July - August, 2016

c o m p l ex , u n i q u e a r c h i t e c t u ra l construction. The name of the monastery complex comes from the Holy Spear that pierced the body of Jesus Christ on the cross and allegedly was brought to Armenia by Apostle Thaddeus, among many other relics.

Now, the spear is in Echmiadzin Museum. Monasteries of Haghpat and Sanahin - The two monastic complexes represent the highest flowering of Armenian religious architecture, whose unique style developed from a blending of elements of Byzantine ecclesiastical architecture and the traditional vernacular architecture of the Caucasian region. Another pilgrimage site is Khor Virap Monastery, in the foothills of Mt. Ararat, just across the border with Turkey.

To stand on the ‘Silk Road’ The ‘Silk Road’ of about 7000 km of length and of 500 km of width passes through Armenia. At the same time, with the export of an extensive list of local products to distant countries, the goods from outside were imported to Armenia. It is not by chance, that in the early medieval capital of the kingdom-in the Dvina, according to the written sources, took place one of the most famous trade fairs of Chinese silks in the region. Not less vivid evidence of imports to Armenia on the ''Silk Road'' is provided to us with archeology.

Greek, Italian, Mesopotamian ceramics and Syrian glass, jewelry, sculpture, Chinese porcelain and examples of silk fabrics, Indianjewelry, hundreds and hundreds of coins, print stamps of outlandish merchants-clearly delineate the shopping communication of the kingdom along the entire length of the Great Road-from China to Western Europe since ancient times up to the late Middle Ages. Through the present territory of the Republic, along the Ararat valley, passes one of the 3 main branches of the road. It is not by chance, that 5 of the historical capitals of Armenia, including modern Yerevan are located on that particular path. And all of them, as well as Armenia itself are hospitably open to the guests.

Armenian Hospitality The most important attraction in Armenia is the Armenian people. You will be surprised by the fact that these people may smile to you or want to treat you a cup of coffee or lunch, not knowing you. Such are the Armenians-with a big heart and friendly, their doors are always open for guests. They are always welcome, hospitality they have inherited from their ancestors. The phenomenon of guest reception was regarded as a crucial rite. Along with many other nations, among the armenians too, the guest was considered to be a sacred person, in every way he was supposed to bestow honours.

Apricots of the Ararat Valley Apricot, a kind of plum tree. The most common version of the origin of the fruit says, that in the first century BC the Roman general Lucullus called apricots ''Armenian apple'' and took the fruit from Armenia to Rome. The fact that the apricot trees have been growing in Armenia for already 3000 years, confirm the apricot pits, found as a result of excavations in Shengavit and around Garni. Besides the divine taste, apricot is endowed with many useful properties that is why it is called ''the fruit of health''. Armenian ancient phycisians claimed that apricot cures twelve various diseases. The vitamin contained in the fruit - magnesium, potassium, calcium, phosphorus and other useful elements are useful for heart disease, food truck, liver, kidney and vessels.

Apricot helps to improve brain function and memory, that is why it is often advised to schoolchildren and students.

Armenian Wine & Brandy According to the Bible after the Flood Noah's Ark landed on Mount Ararat.

When the water retreated, Noah began to live in the valley with his sons, where they were busy with cultivation of grapes. Since those gray times up to the present days in the valley, at the foot of mount Ararat grow grapes and people make drinks. Local conditions are simply ideal for the cultivation of ''cognac'' grapes. The grapes grow on magnificent soils and the sun shines nearly 300 days

in a year. It can be said that the local product is more a product of the sun rather than of the earth.

Yerevan Brandy Factory was built in 1887 when the merchant Nikolai Tairov (Tairyan) built the first Brandy Factory in the Russian Emipire on the place of the Old Erivan Fortress. Later in 1899 Tairov sold his business to the Russian industrialist Nikolai Shustov. In 1900, Shustov presented it's first product at an Exhibition in Paris and received a Grand Pri. As a sign of respect for the quality of the product, Shustov was allowed to write on his bottles ''cognac'' and not ''brandy'', as it was accepted to call all drinks made from the grapes not growing in the region of Cognac. This was the beginning of a victorious campaign. But to the highest recognition Armenian production came in 1913, when the company ''Shustov and Sons'' was honoured to be in the 30 domestic and foreign businessman list to become a supplier of the court of His Empiral Majesty. In the list of Armenian cognac lovers were included many celebrities such as Sir Winston Churchill. Regular supply of Armenian Cognac ''Dvin'' to the British Prime Minister was personally controlled by Stalin. When the old-aged Churchill was asked what the secret of his longevity was, he answered without hesitation.''Never be late for dinner, smoke Hawaiian cigars and drink Armenian cognac!''

Yerevan Brandy Factory is a perfect place where you can learn about on-site production of cognac making technology and taste this legendary drink.

Shopping

W Goa is part of a global renowned brand, W Hotels Worldwide. Born in New York City in 1998, the brand now has nearly 50 hotels in gateway cities and exotic destinations around the globe including Amsterdam, Bangkok, Hong Kong, London and Maldives.

Inspiring, iconic, innovative and influential, W Hotels provides the ultimate in insider access, offering a unique mix of cutting-edge design and passions around fashion, music and healthy lifestyle with Fuel. W Hotels offers a holistic lifestyle experience that is integrated into the brand's sensibility through contemporary restaurant concepts, stylish retail concepts,

the Pan Asian restaurant, Spice Traders and the all-day dining, The Kitchen Table, which will serve local and international flavours. The bar along the Wet Deck is ideal to sip on cocktails or refuel with healthy smoothies. The Rock Pool, a unique venue carved out of the rocky mountain, is the ideal place to savour the sunset. The FIT gym and Spa

by Clarins will ensure you are feeling refuelled and ready for a calendar of W Happenings showcasing what's new and next in fashion, music and design.

Guests will also experience the brand's iconic Whatever/Whenever® service that delivers whatever they want, whenever they want it.

Meeting & Events - W Goa offers a function space with a 1,362 square metres, be its a wedding or a visionary conference. Two grand ballrooms, a function room, three meeting/VIP rooms, a function lawn and a pre-function area provide enough space for all your guests.

Amplify their experience with our fullyadaptable conference facilities and stateof-the-art audiovisual technology. Engage and energize with our unique W Hotels Meetings Set-up, including mood music, signature scents and more. Fully wired rooms with virtually limitless technology and audiovisual amenities mean you’re within a millisecond of the world you’re influencing.

The Next Generation Qatar’s Al Sawari Holding Yas Viceroy Launches enters India Market The Kids Zone, Generation V Yas Viceroy Abu Dhabi is launching newest child-friendly zone, Generation V in July 2016. Generation V will offer an entertaining, enriching and educational experience for children from 4 up to 12 years old.

A place where young minds are stimulated, Generation V has been carefully designed to allow children to boost their creativity and engagement in the brightly coloured 335 square metre Kids’ Zone which will have imaginations running wild. Featuring a multitude of wall cut-outs and tunnels which interlink the different spaces, the new zone will include sound tubing, wall climbing, play stations, play houses, and a soft play area. It is a place where little ones can expand and push their creativity to new heights by exploring, playing, learning, making friends and most importantly, having fun!

The programme will complement Yas V i c e ro y ’s fa m i l y f r i e n d l y accommodation which includes interconnecting rooms and the recently

Vernissage Market - every Saturday near Republic Square, there is an open market with great shopping for tourists and locals alike. You can buy everything from a 300 year-old carpet to a 1970s Soviet phone to Russian nesting dolls.

The "covered market" on Mashtots Street has fresh fruits and vegetables along with great dried fruits.

To Book your tour, contact the local Tour Operator A&R TOUR E-mail: a r t o u r. a m @ m a i l . r u , Web: www.ar-tour.am

www.safariplus.co.in

signature spas and inspiring residences.

W Goa is spread over 25 acres on the scenic Vagator beach in North Goa. Once, home to the hippies, this laid back beach has evolved into one of the most exciting and vibrant destinations within Goa. From its trendy cafes serving a host of international and local flavours to its fashionable boutiques and eclectic music clubs, there is an aura of creativity and cultural mix, which makes this a destination of choice for those who yearn both.

With a private coastal setting and breathtaking views of the sea and the Chapora Fort, W Goa will offer 160 rooms and villas. Dining options include

www.safariplus.co.in

launched ‘Camp Viceroy’, which allows children to enjoy a one- of-a-kind ‘glamping’ experience in the luxurious surroundings of the five-star hotel. The zone will also solve all parent problems when it comes to planning birthdays, with an adjacent space available especially to host parties, movie nights and so much more. With catering provided by the hotel’s restaurants accompanied by a mixture of hands-on activities, Generation V will provide the perfect party space for kids of all ages.

Family Summer Offer prices and opening hours · Splash or Speed package is available from AED 935++/ night for a Deluxe Room, with unlimited access to Ferrari World or YasWaterworld for up to two adults and two children per room.

This package also gives unlimited access to Generation V. · Generation V will be open from 10.00am-9.00pm, Monday to Saturday. · Guests staying at the hotel can enjoy two hours free of charge per day. The price will then be AED 60 ++ per hour/ per child thereafter. · Guests dining at the hotel can enjoy one hour free of charge. The price will then be AED 60 ++ per hour/ per child thereafter.

Al Sawari Holding, one of Qatar’s leading private companies with interests across hospitality, real estate and education sectors signed a MoU and management agreements to mark its entry into India. The collaborations were formalised on the occasion of Hon’ble Prime Minister of India, Mr. Narendra Modi’s visit to the State of Qatar.

An MoU has been signed by H.E. Sheikh Faisal Bin Qassim Al Thani, Chairman of Al Sawari Holding and Al Faisal Holding and Mr. Vivek Nair, Chairman & Managing Director, The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts. Under this agreement, the Al Sawari Group will purchase a 6 acre site from The Leela Group in the historical city of Agra to develop a hotel complex. The hotel complex will include 2 hotels - a 100 room Leela Palace Hotel and a 150 room Aiana Hotel on the same plot. Al Sawari H o ld in g h a s a ls o entered into management agreements with both the Leela Group as well as Aiana Hotels and Resorts to operate the respective hotels.

“Qatar has a long history of bilateral relations with India and there is a lot of

synergy between the two cultures. We are delighted to enter into these landmark agreements with The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts and Aiana Hotels and Resorts during the historic visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Qatar. We are confident that Al Sawari Holding’s foray into the Indian hospitality industry will further enhance the economic and culture relations between the two countries”, said H. E. Sheikh Faisal Bin Qassim Al Thani, Chairman of Al Sawari Holding and Al Faisal Holding.

“In line with our strategy to acquire key assets in strategic global locations, the property is located less than 1 kilometre from the Taj Mahal and will offer unparalleled views of the historic monument.’

The two new hotels will offer a host of signature restaurants and lounges along with spacious banquet halls and state of the art health centres and spas. Both hotels will cater to the upmarket leisure tourists and the MICE segment.

Construction is expected to commence soon and will be completed within 36 months.

July - August, 2016 19

3 " 4

5 #

$

6

%

" 4

3

-

!" # $

!

% " #

$

"

!"#

$

%

&$% '( &

' ()

*

)+ + )," -

.

/! # $

8

)

),9( :

. # $

!6

&0 1

) # $

+ )2

"

3

" ;

6

#

$

!"

)9

! % *

# $

6

6

" &

6

?

! "

!% @

!% A

#

$

%

B - < .

=

"

# $

% # $

7

" .

6

" .

<

6 # $

= + ,

- # 6

"

3 4

>

" 4

% 3

C- &

D ),*(

!

"

%

%

"

% &

' %

' E %

F

0 ;

? ! <

&

"& ;

%

"

6 B "G

!

" & 3

>

@

!9 2 # 5 #

: # #

( 3

L(** F

,"+

" & + )'

3

F M : " ) F#3/

+

F

" =

F

3

M

+ )(" ; F 0 > . !

K 3

7 13 F#3/

F

+ +

' "

3

F F

+ )9 + ) "G 3 + )' ; F 3

;0 0

< 3 ;

: !

3 /

&

F F

3

3

M " ; F 3

E > 3

M= F A & F 4 M ' 3

F F

" @

F M

F 3

"

$ 'H + )( *9")

" F H + )( 2", " @

L'"(

H"

F

8 $ %

$

&%.$'# /

3

+ )9" & $ , 0 # 1 2# $

+ 3 # 4

5# 6 0 $ ,# 0

! $ 3 (

- 7 !!( /

#! !

8 -

!"#

+*" H

" 0 & C0 &D >

9 ,(*

. + )9

2"+*H . + )'" & < F+F

3

"

#

0 & >

+

(

.3/!

" - ( 3 # &

I > & 1&

+ )9

> &

3

" 4

" & 3

6

%

3

"G &

0 & > 0./

> JK

8

"

AVIATION PLUS Etihad Airways' A380 Now Daily From Mumbai To Abudhabi Etihad Air ways celebrated the introduction of its Airbus A380, the

world's largest passenger jet, on the Abu Dhabi – Mumbai route in Mumbai.

Addressing the media conference in M u m b a i , Et i h a d A i r ways C h i ef Commercial Officer, Peter Baumgartner, said, “Bringing our flagship product to India is further proof of its significance as a market, and more importantly, our commitment to the country's economy.

The importance of Indian partner Jet Airways and the contribution of the Etihad Airways / Jet Airways partnership to the Indian aviation industry, also cannot be underestimated”.

The 496-seat aircraft features innovative products including the revolutionary, award-winning 'The Residence' – a three-room suite comprising a living room, shower and bedroom among its four-class products.

He added: “With the aircraft upgrade, Etihad Airways is able to offer an all-A380 daily service in both directions between Mumbai and New York JFK International with a seamless connection over Abu Dhabi, along with the unique USA customs border protection which enables guests to pre-clear US customs at Abu Dhabi International Airport and arrive in

22

July - August, 2016

the US as domestic passengers. The service is operated as a codeshare flight

with Jet Airways.

During 2015, 3.3 million guests were carried between India and Abu Dhabi on the combined networks, making the Etihad Airways / Jet Airways partnership the strongest, biggest and most diverse offering in Indian aviation. The two carriers have the largest international market share of any airline carrying 21 per cent, or 1 in 5 travellers, to and from India.

The airlines together operate 254 flights each week from 15 gateway cities across India to Abu Dhabi with connections to key destinations worldwide. Etihad Airways' current 11 Indian destinations to and from Abu Dhabi are: Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Chennai, New Delhi, Hyderabad, Jaipur, Kochi, Kolkata, Kozhikode, Mumbai and Thiruvananthapuram.

AVIATION PLUS Virgin Atlantic Offers special baggage deals for students from India Students travelling with Virgin Atlantic can avail the special check in baggage allowance of up to 69kg in Economy three bags of 23kg each in addition to 10kg of hand baggage and one piece of sports equipment at no extra charge.

This offer will allow students one date change free of charge.

Nick Parker, Head of India and Middle East, Virgin Atlantic Airways commented, “At Virgin Atlantic we put the customer at the heart of everything we do and will continue to ensure that flying Virgin Atlantic is always that little bit more special and more magical. We are pleased to offer students flying to the UK and US a generous baggage allowance and free date change to ensure they can carry their home comforts while studying abroad. We also have student travel advisors at our contact centre to help them with all their

Virgin Atlantic Student Offer – – 69kg of check-in baggage allowance in Economy (3 x 23kg bags) – One date change allowed free of charge – 10kg hand baggage allowance in Economy – Sports equipment goes free travel related queries.''

Shivani Singh Deo, Marketing and Communications Manager, Virgin Atlantic India added, “We will continue to surprise and delight our customers and understand the importance of extra baggage for students when they travel abroad for studies. To help them kick start their journey hassle free, we have put together this offer to champion their needs.''

For more details on student offer, please visit www.virginatlantic.com or call 1800 102 3000 / +91 124 4693030

GoAir takes delivery of its first of 72 A320neo aircraft GoAir has taken delivery of its first A320neo aircraft, becoming the world’s third operator to do so.

The A320neo powered

by Pratt and Whitney engines, is the first of 72 A320neo on order a n d j o i n s G o A i r ’s existing fleet of 19 A320 aircraft.

The aircraft is configured in a conformable layout and is the first A320neo equipped with the innovative Spaceflex cabin configuration with 186 seats. GoAir currently flies to 22 Indian destinations. With the NEO induction, GoAir will expand its network and offer fliers better connectivity and continue its growth as one of India’s preferred low-cost airline.

Jet Airways launches JetAdvance

The A320neo Family is the world’s bestselling single aisle product line with over 4,500 orders from 82 customers since its launch in 2010 capturing almost 60 percent share of the market. Thanks to their widest cabin, all members of the A320neo Family offer unmatched comfort in all classes and Airbus’ 18” wide seats in economy as standard. To date, seven A320neo aircraft have been delivered to three customers.

www.safariplus.co.in

Jet Airways, is introducing JetAdvance where guests will have the flexibility to change their booking to an earlier flight for a nominal fee.

This customer-centric initiative is applicable for flights across the Jet Airways domestic network and offers guests the opportunity to travel on an earlier flight. This new feature will help guests in reaching their destination ahead of schedule with greater ease and convenience.

This facility will be applicable for flights with departure time difference of maximum of 4 hrs.

Guests are required to be physically present at the airport for managing the booking. The request for time change will be confirmed at the

c h e c k - i n c o u n t e r, s u b j e c t t o availability of seats and for a fee of Rs. 1000/- per guest per flight. This new feature is not applicable for guests booked under group fares.

Mr. Gaurang Shetty, Whole-time Director, Jet Airways, said: “The comfort and convenience of guests is our utmost priority. This new feature demonstrates Jet Airways’ continued commitment to the ‘ G u e s t F i r s t ’ p h i l o s o p h y. We understand the need of guests having to save precious time while travelling between important engagements. With the introduction of this feature, Jet Airways has yet again raised the industry benchmark for customer experience.”

A-350 XWB first Airbus aircraft in Ethiopian Airlines fleet and the first of its kind in Africa Ethiopian Airlines, continued its aviation technology leadership with yet another first African Airbus A350 XWB. In its successful 70 years of history, Ethiopian has so many firsts in African aviation industry. The A350 XWB will be the first airbus aircraft in Ethiopian fleet and the first of its kind in Africa.

All seats are fitted with the latest highdefinition touch screen personal monitors and a higher selection of movies, Television series and audio channels. In flight Wi-Fi connection will be made available on this aircraft in the future. Passengers with smart devices can connect to the world while others can use the smart individual touch screens on their seats when the internet service goes operational.

Group CEO of Ethiopian Airlines Mr. Tewolde GebreMariam said, “Africa's first A350 will provide new features such as wider seats in both Business and Economy classes the lowest twin engine noise level, advanced air conditioning technology and full LED mood lighting to enhance the comfort while reducing fatigue after a long flight.”

www.safariplus.co.in

“The Airbus 350 XWB will enable us to further expand our service quality especially on our long-haul flights and strengthen our connectivity and herald with the least carbon emission to our planet 'The New Spirit of Africa' to the world.” Mr Tewolde added.

Ethiopian has ordered 14 Airbus A350 aircraft and will continue receiving the remaining 13 soon constantly raising number of Airbus aircraft in the fleet ensuring the extra comfort.

The A350 XWB's innovative technology improves performance in operation. Its revolutionary airframe and simplified systems have optimized fuel burn, maintenance costs and reliability, and its engines have the lowest carbon dioxide CO2 emissions of any in the wide body category.

Princess Cruises adds Trinidad and Tobago Trinidad and Tobago’s popularity as a port of call continues to grow as the Princess Cruises announces its 20172018 Americas cruise calendar that includes sailings to our twin island Republic.

The increasing popularity of Trinidad and Tobago as a port-of-call comes as our islands completed a successful 2015-2016 cruise season. Some of the world’s most luxurious cruise ships added Trinidad and Tobago to their itineraries including the MSC Orchestra, with a capacity of over 2,000 passengers and the World Odyssey which functions as both a travelling university and residential home to over 700 undergraduate students. The Saga Sapphire and Seven Ocean Princess also made a return to Trinidad and Tobago’s waters.

“As the amount of visiting ships grow in number, so too are the variety of on-shore activities and tours available for cruise passengers on both islands.” explains Keith Chin, Chief Executive Officer at the Tourism Development Company of Trinidad a n d To b a go . C h i n continues, “Cruise ship

passengers disembarking on our unique islands can enjoy live local entertainment, a variety of island and community tour options and free wifi, all in a safe and secure environment.”

Caribbean cruises will offer several vacation packages in 2017-2018 and will launch a new 14-day Circle Caribbean itinerary out of Fort Lauderdale that includes stops in Trinidad and other Caribbean islands as well as a stop at the line’s private beach resort, Princess Cays.

The Princess will also be returning with its seven-day Caribbean cruises with visits to both the Eastern and Western Caribbean regions on Regal Princess, while Crown Princess will alternate eight-day Eastern and Southern Caribbean itineraries and five-day getaways to the Eastern and Western Caribbean.

Singapore-based Scoot to launch flights to India Singapore-based LCC Scoot announced its services to Chennai and Amritsar and soon will commence between Singapore and Jaipur from October.

While flights to Singapore will be available from Chennai and Amritsar from May 24, Jaipur-Singapore flights will be started by Scoot on October 2.

Amritsar will initially have three flights a week, but the frequency will be increased four times from the beginning of July. Jaipur, on the other hand, will start with four flights a week.

"We are a very young airline, just four years old, but have always been interested in the Indian market. Last year, when aircraft deliveries started coming in, we have been eying Indian market. We started the ground work early last year to commence operations here," said, Mr. Bharath Mahadevan, country head of Scoot.

Soot's India operations will be carried out with Boeing 787 Dreamliner in two class configuration -- economy and premium economy.

CEO Campbell Wilson said, "Scoot is excited to bring our proposition of value travel and service to guests in India - who will soon be able to fly to amazing destinations in our network through the Singapore hub."

Besides parent Singapore Airlines, two of its subsidiaries Tiger Air and Silk Air also operate to India at present. SIA also holds 49 per cent stake in Indian full service carrier Vistara, in which Tata Sons is a majority stake holder with 51 per cent.

Once Scoot commences operations to the three cities here, Singapore Airlines g ro u p w i l l b e co m e t h e l a rge st international airline group operating into India in terms of destinations (16), Mahadevan said.

July - August, 2016 23

AVIATION PLUS Etihad Airways' A380 Now Daily From Mumbai To Abudhabi Etihad Air ways celebrated the introduction of its Airbus A380, the

world's largest passenger jet, on the Abu Dhabi – Mumbai route in Mumbai.

Addressing the media conference in M u m b a i , Et i h a d A i r ways C h i ef Commercial Officer, Peter Baumgartner, said, “Bringing our flagship product to India is further proof of its significance as a market, and more importantly, our commitment to the country's economy.

The importance of Indian partner Jet Airways and the contribution of the Etihad Airways / Jet Airways partnership to the Indian aviation industry, also cannot be underestimated”.

The 496-seat aircraft features innovative products including the revolutionary, award-winning 'The Residence' – a three-room suite comprising a living room, shower and bedroom among its four-class products.

He added: “With the aircraft upgrade, Etihad Airways is able to offer an all-A380 daily service in both directions between Mumbai and New York JFK International with a seamless connection over Abu Dhabi, along with the unique USA customs border protection which enables guests to pre-clear US customs at Abu Dhabi International Airport and arrive in

22

July - August, 2016

the US as domestic passengers. The service is operated as a codeshare flight

with Jet Airways.

During 2015, 3.3 million guests were carried between India and Abu Dhabi on the combined networks, making the Etihad Airways / Jet Airways partnership the strongest, biggest and most diverse offering in Indian aviation. The two carriers have the largest international market share of any airline carrying 21 per cent, or 1 in 5 travellers, to and from India.

The airlines together operate 254 flights each week from 15 gateway cities across India to Abu Dhabi with connections to key destinations worldwide. Etihad Airways' current 11 Indian destinations to and from Abu Dhabi are: Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Chennai, New Delhi, Hyderabad, Jaipur, Kochi, Kolkata, Kozhikode, Mumbai and Thiruvananthapuram.

AVIATION PLUS Virgin Atlantic Offers special baggage deals for students from India Students travelling with Virgin Atlantic can avail the special check in baggage allowance of up to 69kg in Economy three bags of 23kg each in addition to 10kg of hand baggage and one piece of sports equipment at no extra charge.

This offer will allow students one date change free of charge.

Nick Parker, Head of India and Middle East, Virgin Atlantic Airways commented, “At Virgin Atlantic we put the customer at the heart of everything we do and will continue to ensure that flying Virgin Atlantic is always that little bit more special and more magical. We are pleased to offer students flying to the UK and US a generous baggage allowance and free date change to ensure they can carry their home comforts while studying abroad. We also have student travel advisors at our contact centre to help them with all their

Virgin Atlantic Student Offer – – 69kg of check-in baggage allowance in Economy (3 x 23kg bags) – One date change allowed free of charge – 10kg hand baggage allowance in Economy – Sports equipment goes free travel related queries.''

Shivani Singh Deo, Marketing and Communications Manager, Virgin Atlantic India added, “We will continue to surprise and delight our customers and understand the importance of extra baggage for students when they travel abroad for studies. To help them kick start their journey hassle free, we have put together this offer to champion their needs.''

For more details on student offer, please visit www.virginatlantic.com or call 1800 102 3000 / +91 124 4693030

GoAir takes delivery of its first of 72 A320neo aircraft GoAir has taken delivery of its first A320neo aircraft, becoming the world’s third operator to do so.

The A320neo powered

by Pratt and Whitney engines, is the first of 72 A320neo on order a n d j o i n s G o A i r ’s existing fleet of 19 A320 aircraft.

The aircraft is configured in a conformable layout and is the first A320neo equipped with the innovative Spaceflex cabin configuration with 186 seats. GoAir currently flies to 22 Indian destinations. With the NEO induction, GoAir will expand its network and offer fliers better connectivity and continue its growth as one of India’s preferred low-cost airline.

Jet Airways launches JetAdvance

The A320neo Family is the world’s bestselling single aisle product line with over 4,500 orders from 82 customers since its launch in 2010 capturing almost 60 percent share of the market. Thanks to their widest cabin, all members of the A320neo Family offer unmatched comfort in all classes and Airbus’ 18” wide seats in economy as standard. To date, seven A320neo aircraft have been delivered to three customers.

www.safariplus.co.in

Jet Airways, is introducing JetAdvance where guests will have the flexibility to change their booking to an earlier flight for a nominal fee.

This customer-centric initiative is applicable for flights across the Jet Airways domestic network and offers guests the opportunity to travel on an earlier flight. This new feature will help guests in reaching their destination ahead of schedule with greater ease and convenience.

This facility will be applicable for flights with departure time difference of maximum of 4 hrs.

Guests are required to be physically present at the airport for managing the booking. The request for time change will be confirmed at the

c h e c k - i n c o u n t e r, s u b j e c t t o availability of seats and for a fee of Rs. 1000/- per guest per flight. This new feature is not applicable for guests booked under group fares.

Mr. Gaurang Shetty, Whole-time Director, Jet Airways, said: “The comfort and convenience of guests is our utmost priority. This new feature demonstrates Jet Airways’ continued commitment to the ‘ G u e s t F i r s t ’ p h i l o s o p h y. We understand the need of guests having to save precious time while travelling between important engagements. With the introduction of this feature, Jet Airways has yet again raised the industry benchmark for customer experience.”

A-350 XWB first Airbus aircraft in Ethiopian Airlines fleet and the first of its kind in Africa Ethiopian Airlines, continued its aviation technology leadership with yet another first African Airbus A350 XWB. In its successful 70 years of history, Ethiopian has so many firsts in African aviation industry. The A350 XWB will be the first airbus aircraft in Ethiopian fleet and the first of its kind in Africa.

All seats are fitted with the latest highdefinition touch screen personal monitors and a higher selection of movies, Television series and audio channels. In flight Wi-Fi connection will be made available on this aircraft in the future. Passengers with smart devices can connect to the world while others can use the smart individual touch screens on their seats when the internet service goes operational.

Group CEO of Ethiopian Airlines Mr. Tewolde GebreMariam said, “Africa's first A350 will provide new features such as wider seats in both Business and Economy classes the lowest twin engine noise level, advanced air conditioning technology and full LED mood lighting to enhance the comfort while reducing fatigue after a long flight.”

www.safariplus.co.in

“The Airbus 350 XWB will enable us to further expand our service quality especially on our long-haul flights and strengthen our connectivity and herald with the least carbon emission to our planet 'The New Spirit of Africa' to the world.” Mr Tewolde added.

Ethiopian has ordered 14 Airbus A350 aircraft and will continue receiving the remaining 13 soon constantly raising number of Airbus aircraft in the fleet ensuring the extra comfort.

The A350 XWB's innovative technology improves performance in operation. Its revolutionary airframe and simplified systems have optimized fuel burn, maintenance costs and reliability, and its engines have the lowest carbon dioxide CO2 emissions of any in the wide body category.

Princess Cruises adds Trinidad and Tobago Trinidad and Tobago’s popularity as a port of call continues to grow as the Princess Cruises announces its 20172018 Americas cruise calendar that includes sailings to our twin island Republic.

The increasing popularity of Trinidad and Tobago as a port-of-call comes as our islands completed a successful 2015-2016 cruise season. Some of the world’s most luxurious cruise ships added Trinidad and Tobago to their itineraries including the MSC Orchestra, with a capacity of over 2,000 passengers and the World Odyssey which functions as both a travelling university and residential home to over 700 undergraduate students. The Saga Sapphire and Seven Ocean Princess also made a return to Trinidad and Tobago’s waters.

“As the amount of visiting ships grow in number, so too are the variety of on-shore activities and tours available for cruise passengers on both islands.” explains Keith Chin, Chief Executive Officer at the Tourism Development Company of Trinidad a n d To b a go . C h i n continues, “Cruise ship

passengers disembarking on our unique islands can enjoy live local entertainment, a variety of island and community tour options and free wifi, all in a safe and secure environment.”

Caribbean cruises will offer several vacation packages in 2017-2018 and will launch a new 14-day Circle Caribbean itinerary out of Fort Lauderdale that includes stops in Trinidad and other Caribbean islands as well as a stop at the line’s private beach resort, Princess Cays.

The Princess will also be returning with its seven-day Caribbean cruises with visits to both the Eastern and Western Caribbean regions on Regal Princess, while Crown Princess will alternate eight-day Eastern and Southern Caribbean itineraries and five-day getaways to the Eastern and Western Caribbean.

Singapore-based Scoot to launch flights to India Singapore-based LCC Scoot announced its services to Chennai and Amritsar and soon will commence between Singapore and Jaipur from October.

While flights to Singapore will be available from Chennai and Amritsar from May 24, Jaipur-Singapore flights will be started by Scoot on October 2.

Amritsar will initially have three flights a week, but the frequency will be increased four times from the beginning of July. Jaipur, on the other hand, will start with four flights a week.

"We are a very young airline, just four years old, but have always been interested in the Indian market. Last year, when aircraft deliveries started coming in, we have been eying Indian market. We started the ground work early last year to commence operations here," said, Mr. Bharath Mahadevan, country head of Scoot.

Soot's India operations will be carried out with Boeing 787 Dreamliner in two class configuration -- economy and premium economy.

CEO Campbell Wilson said, "Scoot is excited to bring our proposition of value travel and service to guests in India - who will soon be able to fly to amazing destinations in our network through the Singapore hub."

Besides parent Singapore Airlines, two of its subsidiaries Tiger Air and Silk Air also operate to India at present. SIA also holds 49 per cent stake in Indian full service carrier Vistara, in which Tata Sons is a majority stake holder with 51 per cent.

Once Scoot commences operations to the three cities here, Singapore Airlines g ro u p w i l l b e co m e t h e l a rge st international airline group operating into India in terms of destinations (16), Mahadevan said.

July - August, 2016 23

TTM+ 2016

TTM+ 2016 Thailand Travel Mart 2016 in Chiang Mai Thailand Travel Mart 2016 Plus (TTM+ 2016) concluded in Chiang Mai, the northern capital of Thailand, with more than 850 delegates from 55 countries.

The three-day event held from 8-10 June, 2016, at the state-of-the-art Chiang Mai International Exhibition and Convention Centre (CMECC).

Celebrating the launch of the ASEAN integration that took effect this year, the TTM+ 2016 held a joint press conference to discuss the theme, “CLMVT Link: Prosper Together” with the senior tourism

executives of Thailand, Cambodia, Lao PDR., Vietnam, and Myanmar.

Mr. Yuthasak Supasorn, Governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) said, “This is my first TTM+ since I assumed the TAT governorship in 2015 and we had promised to make it unique, different and distinctive. The 15th TTM+ held under the theme, “Smile with Us”, which reflects friendship, enjoyment, happiness and hospitality. It is in line with the new logo of “Amazing Thailand”, which represents the most

well-known characteristic of Thainess – the Smile.”

The event reported registration by 345 sellers from Thailand and the GMS countries, and 305 buyers from 55 countries, 110 trade visitors, as well as over 100 international and local media.

The Welcome Reception was attended b y H . E . G e n e ra l Ta n a s a k Patimapragorn, Deputy Prime Minister of Thailand under the theme of “Thai Lanna”, a unique historic culture of Northern Thailand.

Three post-tours had been offered to the TTM+ 2016 delegates to see other destinations; such as, Chiang Mai, Lampang, Lamphun, Phuket and Phang Nga. One five-day tour also covers Thailand and Myanmar.

In January-April 2016, Thailand's visitor arrivals surged to a record 11.7 million, up by 14.12% over the same period of 2015, according to figures published by the Ministry of Tourism and Sports. China continues to grow as the top source of visitor arrivals with 3.44 million arrivals, up by 27.35% over the same period in 2015.

Thailand aims CLMVT Link - Prosper Together spotlights for Sports Tourism tourism connectivity and collaboration in the region Thailand is positioning itself as a dream destination for sports tourism by promoting the kingdom's world-class sporting facilities, wide-ranging expertise, and reputation for hosting successful regional and international sporting events and tournaments.

H.E. Kobkarn Wattanavrangkul, Thailand's Minister of Tourism and Sports, unveiled the plan in TTM+ 2016.

Her Excellency said, “Thailand is entering the sports and tourism era, and I would like to invite the world to enjoy some of the many opportunities the kingdom can offer sport-loving tourists – whether you are enthusiastic amateurs, professionals or somewhere in between. Sports can give people a new way to enjoy and experience Thailand – playing games of golf or football with friends, taking in the scenery while cycling or running or meeting, and competing with Thai people at any of our gyms and sports centres.”

Five nations in the Greater Mekong Subregion participated in the firstly-held joint press conference “CLMVT Link: Prosper Together” in order to highlight the travel and tourism connectivity together by addressing any collaboration and opportunities among the countries.

According to the ASEAN Secretariat’s preliminary figure, nearly 98 million international travellers visited ASEAN members in 2015, or up by 7.3%. The CLMVT members welcomed around 26.8 million arrivals in 2010, rising to 44.42 million in 2014, or about 42 percent of the total visitors in ASEAN. Mr. Try Chhiv, Deputy Director General of Cambodia's Ministry of Tourism called for a sub-regional effort to enhance the branding of CLMVT not just for the similarities that the five countries share, but also the uniqueness of each country.

Ms. Manisakhone Thammavongxay, Director of the Public Relations Division, Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism, Lao PDR. suggested for all five countries to have a mutual understanding of the benefit of the CLMVT packages under a 'five-countryone-destination' ideal. In reaching that, she noted there was a need to increase transport connectivity among the five countries.

Ms. Daw Khin Than Win, Deputy Director General, Ministry of Hotels and Tourism, Myanmar agreed, saying that there is a need to encourage more lowcost carrier connections between countries as well as to open more checkpoints with enhanced flexibility. “A joint road show is also ideal,” she said.

Mr. Vu Nam, Deputy Director General, Tourism Marketing Department, Vietnam National Administration of

Tourism said apart from increasing transportation connection between all countries, the region should look at encouraging more cooperation between tour agencies among the five countries to promote joint tourism products.

The Governor said that for the VISIT ASEAN@50 marketing campaign, which will commemorate the 50th anniversary of the founding of ASEAN, TAT is preparing to introduce the ASEAN Bucket List: Fifty Things to Discover ASEANESS. This will recommend destinations among the 10 ASEAN countries that can be linked together and reflect the uniqueness of ASEAN. These products will be categorised under 6 groups: 1.

ASEAN Festival/Spiritual Events; 2.

Community-Based Tourism; 3. Cruise and River-Based Tourism; 4. The Journey of Rice; 5. ASEAN Overland Connectivity 6. ASEAN Markets and Bazaars.

“ASEAN Brand – Stronger Together” Former Secretary General of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations Dr. Surin Pitsuwan called on the ASEAN tourism industry to pay equal attention to the socio-cultural pillar of ASEAN integration, and not just over-focus on its economic impact. And delivered the keynote speech on the subject of “ASEAN Brand – Stronger Together” at TTM+ 2016.

He noted that ASEAN's 10 member countries were a “tapestry of contrasts” comprising the largest Muslim country (Indonesia), the largest Catholic country (the Philippines) and the four c o n t i g u o u s B u d d h i st c o u n t r i e s (Thailand, Myanmar, Lao PDR. and

24

July - August, 2016

www.safariplus.co.in

www.safariplus.co.in

Cambodia).

Because it is this diversity which makes ASEAN such an attractive destination, he said the regional travel and tourism industry should pay equal attention to the socio-cultural and political-security blueprints of ASEAN, “not just economic, economic, economic all the time.”

The fundamental foundation of ASEAN integrated community is the sociocultural blueprint, “where people matter, where the exchange of people, the appreciation of both differences and commonalities are important, where we identify ourselves not just by our nationality but also as members of

ASEAN as a 'second identity'.”

As 2017 will mark the 50th anniversary of ASEAN, and a campaign will be launched to mark the event, it should be possible for intra-ASEAN travel to hit the 50% mark. “That's within striking distance,” he said.

“Tourism is supposed to be one activity that creates opportunity for everyone.

Let us make the ASEAN destination attractive, sustainable, accessible and playing the role of equalising that income.

ASEAN is branding itself as a single destination, an integrated market. This will become much easier if the ASEAN countries can come up with a single visa

to allow people to move more seamlessly through the region. He called on the tourism industry to put pressure on the immigration and safety authorities to expedite a single visa.

While tourists had the luxury of being on the move for leisure and pleasure, he urged the audience to think of the humanitarian suffering of the millions of people who are on the move to escape suffering and violence.

Dr. Surin also reminded the industry that there would be 12 billion people on the planet over the few decades. What kind of new issues and challenges would that entail, he asked.

July - August, 2016 25

TTM+ 2016

TTM+ 2016 Thailand Travel Mart 2016 in Chiang Mai Thailand Travel Mart 2016 Plus (TTM+ 2016) concluded in Chiang Mai, the northern capital of Thailand, with more than 850 delegates from 55 countries.

The three-day event held from 8-10 June, 2016, at the state-of-the-art Chiang Mai International Exhibition and Convention Centre (CMECC).

Celebrating the launch of the ASEAN integration that took effect this year, the TTM+ 2016 held a joint press conference to discuss the theme, “CLMVT Link: Prosper Together” with the senior tourism

executives of Thailand, Cambodia, Lao PDR., Vietnam, and Myanmar.

Mr. Yuthasak Supasorn, Governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) said, “This is my first TTM+ since I assumed the TAT governorship in 2015 and we had promised to make it unique, different and distinctive. The 15th TTM+ held under the theme, “Smile with Us”, which reflects friendship, enjoyment, happiness and hospitality. It is in line with the new logo of “Amazing Thailand”, which represents the most

well-known characteristic of Thainess – the Smile.”

The event reported registration by 345 sellers from Thailand and the GMS countries, and 305 buyers from 55 countries, 110 trade visitors, as well as over 100 international and local media.

The Welcome Reception was attended b y H . E . G e n e ra l Ta n a s a k Patimapragorn, Deputy Prime Minister of Thailand under the theme of “Thai Lanna”, a unique historic culture of Northern Thailand.

Three post-tours had been offered to the TTM+ 2016 delegates to see other destinations; such as, Chiang Mai, Lampang, Lamphun, Phuket and Phang Nga. One five-day tour also covers Thailand and Myanmar.

In January-April 2016, Thailand's visitor arrivals surged to a record 11.7 million, up by 14.12% over the same period of 2015, according to figures published by the Ministry of Tourism and Sports. China continues to grow as the top source of visitor arrivals with 3.44 million arrivals, up by 27.35% over the same period in 2015.

Thailand aims CLMVT Link - Prosper Together spotlights for Sports Tourism tourism connectivity and collaboration in the region Thailand is positioning itself as a dream destination for sports tourism by promoting the kingdom's world-class sporting facilities, wide-ranging expertise, and reputation for hosting successful regional and international sporting events and tournaments.

H.E. Kobkarn Wattanavrangkul, Thailand's Minister of Tourism and Sports, unveiled the plan in TTM+ 2016.

Her Excellency said, “Thailand is entering the sports and tourism era, and I would like to invite the world to enjoy some of the many opportunities the kingdom can offer sport-loving tourists – whether you are enthusiastic amateurs, professionals or somewhere in between. Sports can give people a new way to enjoy and experience Thailand – playing games of golf or football with friends, taking in the scenery while cycling or running or meeting, and competing with Thai people at any of our gyms and sports centres.”

Five nations in the Greater Mekong Subregion participated in the firstly-held joint press conference “CLMVT Link: Prosper Together” in order to highlight the travel and tourism connectivity together by addressing any collaboration and opportunities among the countries.

According to the ASEAN Secretariat’s preliminary figure, nearly 98 million international travellers visited ASEAN members in 2015, or up by 7.3%. The CLMVT members welcomed around 26.8 million arrivals in 2010, rising to 44.42 million in 2014, or about 42 percent of the total visitors in ASEAN. Mr. Try Chhiv, Deputy Director General of Cambodia's Ministry of Tourism called for a sub-regional effort to enhance the branding of CLMVT not just for the similarities that the five countries share, but also the uniqueness of each country.

Ms. Manisakhone Thammavongxay, Director of the Public Relations Division, Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism, Lao PDR. suggested for all five countries to have a mutual understanding of the benefit of the CLMVT packages under a 'five-countryone-destination' ideal. In reaching that, she noted there was a need to increase transport connectivity among the five countries.

Ms. Daw Khin Than Win, Deputy Director General, Ministry of Hotels and Tourism, Myanmar agreed, saying that there is a need to encourage more lowcost carrier connections between countries as well as to open more checkpoints with enhanced flexibility. “A joint road show is also ideal,” she said.

Mr. Vu Nam, Deputy Director General, Tourism Marketing Department, Vietnam National Administration of

Tourism said apart from increasing transportation connection between all countries, the region should look at encouraging more cooperation between tour agencies among the five countries to promote joint tourism products.

The Governor said that for the VISIT ASEAN@50 marketing campaign, which will commemorate the 50th anniversary of the founding of ASEAN, TAT is preparing to introduce the ASEAN Bucket List: Fifty Things to Discover ASEANESS. This will recommend destinations among the 10 ASEAN countries that can be linked together and reflect the uniqueness of ASEAN. These products will be categorised under 6 groups: 1.

ASEAN Festival/Spiritual Events; 2.

Community-Based Tourism; 3. Cruise and River-Based Tourism; 4. The Journey of Rice; 5. ASEAN Overland Connectivity 6. ASEAN Markets and Bazaars.

“ASEAN Brand – Stronger Together” Former Secretary General of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations Dr. Surin Pitsuwan called on the ASEAN tourism industry to pay equal attention to the socio-cultural pillar of ASEAN integration, and not just over-focus on its economic impact. And delivered the keynote speech on the subject of “ASEAN Brand – Stronger Together” at TTM+ 2016.

He noted that ASEAN's 10 member countries were a “tapestry of contrasts” comprising the largest Muslim country (Indonesia), the largest Catholic country (the Philippines) and the four c o n t i g u o u s B u d d h i st c o u n t r i e s (Thailand, Myanmar, Lao PDR. and

24

July - August, 2016

www.safariplus.co.in

www.safariplus.co.in

Cambodia).

Because it is this diversity which makes ASEAN such an attractive destination, he said the regional travel and tourism industry should pay equal attention to the socio-cultural and political-security blueprints of ASEAN, “not just economic, economic, economic all the time.”

The fundamental foundation of ASEAN integrated community is the sociocultural blueprint, “where people matter, where the exchange of people, the appreciation of both differences and commonalities are important, where we identify ourselves not just by our nationality but also as members of

ASEAN as a 'second identity'.”

As 2017 will mark the 50th anniversary of ASEAN, and a campaign will be launched to mark the event, it should be possible for intra-ASEAN travel to hit the 50% mark. “That's within striking distance,” he said.

“Tourism is supposed to be one activity that creates opportunity for everyone.

Let us make the ASEAN destination attractive, sustainable, accessible and playing the role of equalising that income.

ASEAN is branding itself as a single destination, an integrated market. This will become much easier if the ASEAN countries can come up with a single visa

to allow people to move more seamlessly through the region. He called on the tourism industry to put pressure on the immigration and safety authorities to expedite a single visa.

While tourists had the luxury of being on the move for leisure and pleasure, he urged the audience to think of the humanitarian suffering of the millions of people who are on the move to escape suffering and violence.

Dr. Surin also reminded the industry that there would be 12 billion people on the planet over the few decades. What kind of new issues and challenges would that entail, he asked.

July - August, 2016 25

! " #! $! % ! &'!

!

!

!

!

!

( !

" ) $

!

! !

! ! "* '! *

! ! ! ! !

+

$

& *

$ !

! ! !

! , ! ! -./0" '! , !

!

-./0 !

! " # $%& & ' !

!

1 ) 2

3 " 4

!

! 5 $

! , ,

! ! $ + &6

' * ! !

( , " &1 ) 2

3 * $

(

! 1 !

! !

$

!

, " '! !

!

!

! !

"

'! )

( ) " 7

!

6 ! 1 ! 3 86139

:1

)

!

; " #

!

!

(

! -/.+

!

!+ $ ) ,

$ ! * + ,

* ( - '! ;;

!

! !

; <

"

7

! !

" :1

)

$ : <)

!

" '! : <) !

,

: ! )

!

: $ ) ! "

! :1

) !

<

!

" '! -/.

+! ! ! !

.

$ ! = ! 3

7 > 8

/?@"? 9 !

A

!

" '!

!

0B ,

! / 0..