APRIL 2016 `150
India 2016 An overview of the Union Budget
The Buda Pest Era A walk through ancient architecture
INDIA
Splurge For Splendour A wish list for opulence
City Of Change
Ahmedabad: village to city
Joining The Jet Set The business of private jets
CONTRIBUTORS
INDIA
Michelle harbi is the managing
editor of Business Traveller UK. Now with the magazine for more than six years, Michelle’s work has taken her to most continents. In this issue she discovers the luxurious side of Seychelles. (see page 62).
Editorial Editor Neha Gupta assistant Editor Akanksha Maker art designer Aloysius Dsouza Proofreader James Mathew Contributors Hallie Cambell, John Church, Tamsin Cocks, Michelle Harbi, Valerian Ho, Arunima Kumar, Tom Otley Publishing Managing director & CEo Ravi Lalwani Executive director Meena Lalwani business head Khursheed Mistry Production Anthony Mark Pereira PanaCEa Publishing intErnational Managing director Julian Gregory global Editor-in-Chief Tom Otley
ToM oTley is Editorial Director, responsible for co-ordinating the editorial content of all publications within Panacea Publishing International. He travels frequently, and has a wide experience of fashioning editorial content for different markets. Tom explores the world of private aviation and its relevance to corporate travel on page 32.
ContaCt Editorial tel +91 (0)22 4220 2127 Email editorial@panaceapublishing.co.in twitter.com/bt_ind facebook.com/BusinessTravellerIndia advertising tel +91 (0)22 4220 2128 Email info@panaceapublishing.co.in
APRIL 2016 `150
India 2016 An overview of the Union Budget
The Buda Pest Era A walk through ancient architecture
INDIA
subsCriPtions +91 22 4220 2129 Email info@panaceapublishing.co.in
Splurge For Splendour A wish list for opulence
City Of Change
Ahmedabad: village to city
Joining The Jet Set The business of private jets
cover__APRIL.indd 1
TaMsin cocks is deputy editor of
Business Traveller India is published by Panacea Publishing Pvt Ltd, by arrangement with Perry Publications Limited. It is printed at Thomson Press India Limited, New Delhi. It is published 10 times a year at our address above. The magazine is entirely independent of all commercial interests within the travel industry. Unsolicited manuscripts will not be accepted for publication. The opinions expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of the publishers, who cannot accept responsibility for any errors or omissions.
Perry Publications 5th Floor, Warwick House 25-27 Buckingham Palace Road London SW1W 0PP tel +44 (0)20 7821 2700 businesstraveller.com
IsTOCK
Business Traveller Asia-Pacific. This month she understands the significance of scents in hospitality. “Have you ever made your hotel booking decision based on which one smelt the best? Maybe you have without realising it,” she says on page 70.
3/25/16 12:00 PM
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APRIL 2016 3
INDIA
CONTENTS
APRIL 2016
ON THE COVER: 32 JOINING THE JET SET The business of chartering private planes rather for you, aircraft waiting at the airfield magine an for it. It’s and it will waiting or home, than you your work closest to your nearest to strip if you’re landing wait, and fly to the late, it will set off ahead If you’re can destination. a good chance it early, there’s There’s no le. a are swift. of schedu if you have to formalities and ure , Depart or liquids sip while taxiing on bags to prerestriction you like d if you’ve choice that been prepare er you brought drink of , it will have whatev the runway not, simply pour – if specified ed few. While privileg to the with you. are for s every day a few Private jets through airport only crowd ul flights, jets. millions corporate and long-ha ncing shortbe experie take both ed in recent people will n has improv , routes and thousand of us, aviatio airlines For most B787 and choice of A350, greater a such as the on bringing years, with n aircraft focused new-generatioing efforts have has become process that pedestrian A380. Market back to a rather too of flying the thrill for an activity place that takes feet. above 30,000 , Higher ceilings, mood lighting quieter cabins, s and larger windowble more favoura pressurisation ed the have enhanc But ask experience. has anyone who s a busines on been tell jet and they’ll beats you: nothing plane. your own te jet In corpora Cessna terms, the Latitude, Citation Textron made by of seating capable e aircraft be a more is a midsiz gh six wouldchampagne). Its Aviation, g gers (althou nine passen number when openin to be flat rather for the floor comfortable cabin six design allows corridor, with a large, modern There are a sunken than having and 77 inches across.great views, and give the size of feet in height windows that considering evenly-spaced inside and out, (826 kmph). both it attains The it’s quiet and the speeds corporate jet? the aircraft it like to fly on a what’s So
I
AVIATION PRIVATE
et
the jet s
be could there market – ts corporate Tom Otley repor ting the are targe using one? Private jets ess argument for busin
a
26
climb Private jets quickly to reach high altitudes, is air where the they thinner and their can reach d– optimum spee l jets commercia at typically stick 39,000 feet.
Left: Cessna
Citation Latitude
APRIL 2016
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m raveller.co Visit businesst aveller.com Visit businesstr
2016 72 APRIL
iation.indd
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private_av
10 UPFRONT Airline and hotel news worldwide
16 INDIA 2016 Indian Budget and the travel industry
18 INBOX
44
Your letters and online posts
20 DATA ZONE Stats and infographic
21 TRIED & TESTED JW Marriott Dubai, ShangriLa Sydney, St Regis Mumbai, The Leela Goa, Virgin Atlantic
26 THINK BIGGER Touring Changi Airport in Singapore
38 AHMEDABAD
38
The story of Gujarat’s fastest growing city
44 EAT, PRAY, WORK Amritsar’s temple, ancient industries and food
50 LOYALTY Reward and redemption news 4 APRIL 2016
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Business Traveller lifestyle News I 69
A MODERNLEGEND. LEGEND. AAMODERN MODERN LEGEND.
JUMEIRAH CITY BREAK AT JUMEIRAH EMIRATES TOWERS JUMEIRAH CITYcity BREAK ATJUMEIRAH EMIRATES TOWERS JUMEIRAH CITY BREAK AT TOWERS Book the perfect escape atJUMEIRAH Jumeirah EMIRATES Emirates Towers Book theperfect perfectcity city escapeatatJumeirah Jumeirah Emirates Towers Book the escape Towers and enjoy unlimited complimentary Wild Emirates Wadi Waterpark andZero enjoy unlimited complimentary WildaWadi Wadi Waterpark enjoy unlimited complimentary Wild and Gravity beach access along with hostWaterpark of other benefits. andZero ZeroGravity Gravitybeach beachaccess accessalong alongwith witha ahost hostofofother otherbenefits. benefits. and For reservations or more information, please contact us on: Forreservations reservations moreinformation, information,please pleasecontact contactususon: on: For orormore Tel: +971 4 319 8555 Tel: 4 319 8555 Tel:+971 +971 4 319 8555 Email: jetreservations@jumeirah.com businesstraveller.com Email: Email:jetreservations@jumeirah.com jetreservations@jumeirah.com
FEBRUARY 2016
INDIA
CONTENTS
APRIL 2016
58
54 NEWS Your global downtime hotlist
70
56 WHAT’S ON Events worldwide this month
58 THE BUDA PEST ERA Exploring the historic city of Budapest
62 PARADISE FOUND Experience luxury on the beautiful island of Mahé
66 RIDE THE WAVE Water sports in Abu Dhabi
70 UNCOMMON SCENTS Smells in subtext
75 BUY & FLY Tax-free airport shopping
76 SPLURGE FOR SPLENDOUR
76
An opulent wish list
80 TEA TALES Indian teas and flavours
6 APRIL 2016
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CHECK-IN
Y
ou’re reading the first issue of Business Traveller India’s second volume. This means, you have thumbed through ten issues of Volume One; and April 2016 is our anniversary issue. Thank you for making this happen. From business stories to leisure ones, launch announcements to route updates, it’s been an exciting one-year getting the information to you, And when mail@panaceapublishing.co.in beeps with another encouraging message, we’re charged up all over again. We decided to mark our milestone issue with a little bit of luxury. Flip to the wish-list for all things opulent (page 76), read the cover story on private jets (page 32), know about the tallest hotel in the world (page 23), and explore Goa’s luxury property (page 24). From our selection of leisure destinations, this month, we have indulged in Budapest’s architecture from the royal ages (page 58) and soaked in the sun from the swanky decks in Seychelles (page 62) for a more relaxing holiday. Our business stories bring Ahmedabad’s journey from village to city (page 38) and Amritsar’s global monopoly in the highest rice grade and shawls (page 44). We hope you enjoy reading these as much as we enjoyed writing them. Continue to let us know what else would you like to read about. Cheers to another year of productive travel.
Neha Gupta Editor
8 APRIL 2016
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Gazetted as Singapore’s 71st National Monument and once home to the General Post Office, The Fullerton Hotel’s strategic location and Neoclassical grandeur are timeless.
upfront Neha Gupta compiles the latest news from businesstraveller.com
Air indiA to lAunch non-stop flights on the delhi-ViennA route
Air iNdiA will stArt A NoN-stop fliGht service oN the delhi-vieNNA route from April 6. The announcement came
after the Austrian Airlines’ decision to discontinue its service on this route. The airline will deploy its Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft on the route and will fly thrice a week on Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays. The flight will offer 18 business class seats and 238 seats in economy. Flights will depart Delhi at 1400 and arrive in Vienna at 1845. The return flight will depart Vienna at 2245 and arrive in Delhi at 0925. Air India Director for Commercials Pankaj Srivastava says,“Air India has taken a conscious decision to grow further in the European market and operate as a dominant player on the (new) route.” Srivastava further adds, “We are also in talks with the Austrian Airlines for operating code share flights as we aim to offer seamless connections to our passengers from New Delhi to 25 European cities beyond Vienna.” The national passenger carrier currently operates 58 flights from Delhi and Mumbai to seven major European destinations namely London, Birmingham, Frankfurt, Paris, Rome, Milan and Moscow. airindia.in
Luxury HoteLs Group (LHG) siGns 20 new HoteLs in india luxury hotels Group (lhG), a uK-based company that offers marketing support to luxury hotels, luxury residences and boutique properties, announced its expansion in india. the hotel company signed up 20 new hotels that are located across the commercial cities of Mumbai and delhi, as well as leisure destinations such as Agra and Goa. lhG has also signed its first hotel in taiwan as well as a number of properties in europe. “india is growing as a destination both for tourism and business. with visitor numbers continuing to rise, we have our sights set on growing our presence to meet this demand over the coming years. the suite of services that we offer our hotelier partners will help them to enjoy an enhanced profile, powerful global reach and bespoke business growth without compromising the character that sets them apart,” says Amarpal chandok, director of Business development, luxury hotels Group – Asia. lhG already represents five hotels in india. the new development takes this number to 25. luxuryhotelsgroup.com
flight connections between indiA And MAldiVes increAse there are plans to commence direct flights between Maldives’ capital Malé and India’s capital Delhi and financial capital Mumbai. Discussion for direct flights between the nations was initiated after India’s homegrown hospitality groups Oberoi and Leela made the demand. Both companies are expanding their portfolio by investing in the island country with luxury resorts. Maldives tourism minister Moosa Zameer stated that during his visit to India, they were in negotiations with Indigo and Indian national carrier Air India for additional direct flights between the nations. This is with the hope of increasing traffic to Maldives. Currently SpiceJet has daily non-stop flights between Malé and South Indian city Kochi; Air India flies non-stop daily between Malé and Bengaluru; Maldives’ national carrier Maldivian has non-stop flights on Sunday, Wednesday and Friday between Malé and Chennai, and nonstop daily service on the Malé-Trivandrum route. visitmaldives.com
10 APRIL 2016
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Garuda Indonesia will fly to India GArudA iNdoNesiA plans to launch direct flights to India this year, following the growing demand in business and leisure travel between the two countries. This service will most likely connect Mumbai and Delhi to Jakarta and Bali, says an official. According to the Ministry of Tourism of Indonesia, around 2,62,000 tourists travelled to Indonesia from India. These numbers are projected to touch 5,00,000 in the next four years. The “wonderful Indonesia” campaign has been
able to attract a substantial number of Indian tourists to Indonesia, however the lack of direct flights has deterred many. “The consulate general of Indonesia in Mumbai will push the Ministry of Tourism to open direct flights for the first time between Delhi and Jakarta and Mumbai and Bali,” says Taufik Nurhidayat, an Indonesian Ministry of Tourism official. AirAsia Indonesia X, a long-haul service arm of budget airline AirAsia is also in talks with Indian authorities to launch direct flights between the countries. garuda-indonesia.com
Ethiopian Airlines expands services in Delhi Ethiopian airlinEs doublEd its daily sErvicE to dElhi sincE March 26. The airline now departs twice daily from Addis Ababa to Delhi. The flights fly from Addis Ababa at 1600 and 2315 and arrive in Delhi at 0125 and 0640 respectively. The return flights leave Delhi at 0250 and 0930 and arrive at the Ethiopian capital at 0710 and 1400 respectively. Tewolde Gebremariam, group CEO of Ethiopian Airlines says,“We are pleased to offer our customers a double daily service to Delhi. India being one of the strongest economic muscles zooming into the global economic picture, availing more frequencies would catalyse the channelling of investors from both countries and facilitating business.” Tewolde Gebremariam is hoping that the increased connectivity will strengthen the growing economic, political, and social relationship between the two countries. He adds,“Our customers will be able to make an immediate connection to cities like Hargeisa, Khartoum, Nairobi and some southern African flights.” The pan African airline operates across 92 destinations. Last year it expanded its services to Tokyo, Manila, Dublin, Los Angeles, Cape Town, Durban, Gaborone, Yaoundé, and Goma. The airline will be using its Boeing B737-800 on the Addis Ababa-DelhiAddis Ababa route. ethiopianairlines.com
HOTEL NEws ITC HOTELs will launch three luxury properties in 2017 — the second ITC in Kolkata and Hyderabad, and the first in Ahmedabad. ObErOI GrOup will manage a luxury resort property in Maldives that is owned by SCDCL builders. This is Oberoi’s first entry in the island country. HyaTT HOTELs COrpOraTION has launched its 13th brand, The Unbound Collection by Hyatt. It is described as “a global collection of unique and independent stay experiences”. The Unbound Collection by Hyatt has launched with The Driskill Hotel in Austin, Texas; the Hôtel du Louvre in Paris, France; the Carmelo Resort & Spa in Carmelo, Uruguay; and the Coco Palms Resort in Kauai, Hawaii, which is being renovated and will re-open in 2018. sTarwOOd’s LE MErIdIEN brand will return to Rome later this year, when the independent Visconti Palace Hotel joins the portfolio. The 240-room rebranded hotel will open by the end of 2016. Facilities will include “spacious work spaces and subtle technology” in guest rooms, as well as a rooftop terrace, Latitude coffee bar, allday dining restaurant, a fitness centre and bar.
fuel duty hike could leAd to increAsed fAres in indiA the recent indian budget in February announced that 14 per cent excise duty will be levied on aviation turbine fuel (ATF) from April 1. This came as a shock to the industry who welcomed the recent drop in ATF prices. The duty hike, from eight per cent, means potentially higher airline ticket price for India’s budget carriers. Amber Dubey, partner and head of aerospace and defence at global consultancy KPMG says,“Increase in excise duty on ATF will make the raw material costlier. At a time when ATF in India is 60-70 per cent costlier than global ATF prices it goes against the government’s stated objective to make flying affordable for the masses.”
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APRIL 2016 11
upfront
Marriott opens Courtyard brand in raipur
All IndIAn cArrIers to operAte from mumbAI’s InternAtIonAl termInAl Mumbai International Airport Limited (MIAL) has put in action their transition plan of moving domestic carriers from Terminals 1A and 1B to the integrated Terminal 2 (T-2) at Mumbai’s international airport. In 2014, the redeveloped T-2 had opened as an international airport. A year later, Vistara was the only domestic airline to operate from there. Air India shifted domestic operations to T-2 in October. Jet Airways started operations from T-2 from March 15 this year. Next in line in IndiGo. The swing-gate facility in T-2 allows flexibility in separating a certain number of gates for domestic and international departures without the need for their respective passengers to share the same entrance and area. This helps MIAL to flexibly allocate gates, for international and domestic flights, based on traffic. It has a total of 104 gates. As this will happen in phases and will take years to complete, MIAL cannot comment on the future of the existing Terminals 1A and 1B. However, IndiGo, SpiceJet and GoAir are against this decision as they are of the opinion that T-2 does not have the capacity to handle their growing traffic. With the increasing number of air travellers from Mumbai, the number is estimated to reach 58 million by 2019. T-2’s current total handling capacity is 40 million passengers. Airlines opposing the move say that by keeping 1A and 1B operational, domestic airlines will be able to function smoothly in spite of their growth. The only other solution to accommodate the air passenger growth is Navi Mumbai’s new airport — it’s opening is calculated for 2020. However, this again is uncertain. MIAL argues that with the move to T-2, terminal 1A will be empty, thus saving the airport operation costs. It remains adamant about IndiGo’s move to T-2, and will announce the next phase of the relocation plans in the coming weeks. csia.in
indian airports globally reCognised for serviCe Airports council International’s (AcI) 2015 survey has recognised eight Indian airports in the top ranks for their commendable customer service and improvements made from feedback. Airports Council International is a global non-profit organisation that researches, surveys and ranks airports’ service quality. They rank airports as per passengers’ ratings of airport’s
12 APRIL 2016
Courtyard by Marriott opens its 14th property in Raipur, a city in Central India’s state of Chhattisgarh. Being in a tier-II city, this property is designed for business travellers. Neeraj Govil, Market Vice-President South Asia, Marriott International, says, “The business community in South Asia, specifically in India, is growing at an unprecedented rate and this community is looking at lodging options that combine comfort and value. Raipur is an upcoming Business and MICE destination, making it a key player in the region. We believe our new property will efficiently cater to this growing business segment.” Each of the 108 rooms and suites have a work desk on wheels, allowing guests the flexibility to choose their desired work area in the room. Other in-room facilities include 24-hour room service, wifi, LED TVs, ergonomic chairs, an iPod docking station, and a tea/coffee maker. The suites have an addition of visual alarms. There are eight meeting rooms totalling 1,285 sqm. The 425 sqm ballroom can be divided as per requirement. Each of them are equipped with audio-video facilities, a screen and wifi. A dedicated meetings planning team helps with corporate events. A gym, spa, sauna, pool, two restaurants and a bar are available for leisure. marriott.com
service, and comparison to airports worldwide by traffic, type, size, region, and the like. They rank only those airports who participate in their monthly survey. Jaipur has won first position under the ‘Best Airport by Size: 2-5 Million Passengers’ category. Lucknow wins second place. Hyderabad ranks third under the ‘Best Airport by Size: 5-15 Million Passengers’ category. New Delhi and Mumbai are tied at first position under the “Best Airport by Size: 25-40 Million Passengers” category. They are also tied at second place as “Best Airport in Asia-Pacific”. Under “Best Airport in Asia-Pacific”, Jaipur ranks first, followed by Goa at fourth position, and Thiruvananthapuram in fifth position. For the full list of participants and winners visit ace.aero
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AIrAsIA to serve vIshAkhApAtnAm-kuAlA lumpur route
AIrlIne news
Malaysia-based Malindo Airlines has withdrawn its serves on the Vishakhapatnam-Kuala Lumpur
Jet Airways flies to Muscat
route. using this as leverage, air asia will convert its weekly flight on the route to a daily. Services start this month. this will give air asia passengers flying from Vishakhapatnam, access to australia, China, Singapore, Japan, thailand, indonesia, Philippines and Korea on connecting flights. airasia.com
Jet Airways has launched a new daily flight between Delhi and Muscat on March 21. before this, the national carriers of both countries, oman air and air india, were the only airlines that offered non-stop service between the two cities. oman has been an attractive destination for business travellers, and the new Jet airways flight gives indians more travel choices in terms of time and airlines. Gaurang Shetty, Senior Vice-President, Commercial, Jet airways says, “it is indeed a proud moment for us at Jet airways to launch our maiden international flight between delhi and Muscat. this is a significant milestone for enhancing the strong ties between india and the Sultanate of oman. With the launch of this flight, Jet airways guests from Northern india, SaarC and aSEaN regions will have the option of travelling to oman via delhi.” Flight 9W598 departs delhi at 2325; and return flight 9W597 departs Muscat at 0245. jetairways.com
Taj checks out of The Gateway Hotel Rawalot Jaisalmer TAj HoTeLs ResoRTs And PALAces, conTRoLLed by IndIAn HoTeLs coMPAny (IHcL), no longer manages The Gateway Hotel Rawalot Jaisalmer, a property owned by Mallani Hotels Motels and Restaurants. The Gateway is an upscale hospitality brand under the Taj umbrella, the lowest of its categories, designed to cater to the contemporary business traveller. “Taj Hotels Resorts and Palaces and Mallani Hotels Motels and Restaurants have decided mutually to discontinue the management contract for The Gateway Hotel Rawalkot Jaisalmer,” says a spokesperson from IHCL. This is its third exit announcement in four months — the other two properties are The Gateway Hotel Ummed Ahmedabad and The Gateway Hotel Jodhpur. Taj’s contract with the Jaisalmer property expired on March 31, and its contracts with the properties in Ahmedabad and Jodhpur will expire on May 9. “The company remains fully committed to honouring all its contractual obligations to stakeholders for the remaining period of management contract,” IHC says. No reason has been given for this exit. Post these contract terminations, Taj will have 26 The Gateway properties in its portfolio. thegatewayhotels.com Visit businesstraveller.com
IndIgo adds Dehradun to its route map. Flights 6E 914 and 6E 692 will depart from Delhi at 1040 and 1250 respectively for Dehradun, and Flights 6E 194, 6E 146 and 6E 692 will take off daily from Mumbai (1140), Bengaluru (1325) and Hyderabad (0940) respectively. TurkIsh AIrlInes continues to introduce more routes to the US. Bogota and Panama will be added to the route map in May 2016. With this, the airline will have a total of 14 American destinations. The 15th destination, Atlanta is next on the plan. emIrATes has delayed the launch of its new non-stop Dubai-Panama route from February 1 to March 31 and now further until they “fully receive all regulatory codeshare approvals from the wider Central and Latin America region”. Emirates now says that the service will launch by the end of 2016 or early 2017. QATAr AIrwAys has launched its first flight from Doha to Sydney, the airline’s third destination in Australia after Melbourne and Perth. The new daily flight sees a B777300 on the said route. unITed has confirmed its plans to reinstate flights between the US and Cuba, with applications filed to offer non-stop routes from New York Newark, Houston, Washington and Chicago to Havana. If successful the plans would see United offer eight flights per week from Newark to Havana, as well as weekly Saturday services from Houston, Washington Dulles and Chicago.
APRIL 2016 13
upfront
Keys Hotels partners witH paytm Jet Airways and Vistara in a price war Jet AirwAys And VistArA are competing with each other for low Business class tickets, all benefitting the flyer. The discounts are up to 40 per cent off on full price and on select routes. Vistara’s Delhi-Mumbai Business class ticket is offered at Rs 17,280; full price was Rs 20,541. It is valid for booking and travel until April 15. A full fare Jet Airways Business class ticket on the Delhi-Mumbai route for Rs 41,954 is priced at Rs 17,153 until April 17. This comes at a time when time when March and April are said to receive high air traffic. airvistara.com; jetairways.com
two new IndIan aIrlInes plan to fly srInagar-Jammu-delhI route Air Asia and Vistara are awaiting necessary approvals by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) to fly the Srinagar-Jammu-Delhi route. This development will increase the number of airlines operating out of Srinagar airport from five to seven. Air India, GoAir, Spicejet, IndiGo and JetAirways currently serve this sector. The state government is pitching for night flight operations at the Srinagar airport. Although the Central Reserve Police Force has shown concerns due to safety issues in the area. “If DGCA extends flight timing up to 10pm, the Srinagar airport would host 35 to 40 flights a day. As the clearance from DGCA is inching closer, more airlines are showing keenness to operate in the state,” says an AAI official. The 65-acre Srinagar airport is 12km from the city and is constantly monitored by the Indian Air Force.
Airlines to pull out of CAliCut internAtionAl Airport Emirates has stopped operations to Kozhikode’s Calicut International Airport and three airlines with wide bodied aircraft will relocate services to Kochi (Cochin) from May. Air
14 APRIL 2016
Keys Hotels, a mid-level group of business hotels in India now accepts payments through mobile commerce platform Paytm wallet. Paytm wallet is an online platform and mobile app that allows users to top their “wallets” with a desired amount. The e-wallet can then be used to pay bills for services that have partnered with Paytm, in this case, Keys Hotels. Guests of the hospitality group can manage their booking payments through this interface at Keys Prima, Keys Hotels and Keys Lite. The group manages and owns 22 properties across 15 Indian cities. “At Keys, we aim at consistently delighting our customers by providing the options to choose at every touch point in his/her journey with the Keys brand. Our association with Paytm is yet another humble attempt to bring smiles to our customers by providing a swift and easy new age payment option. With the association of both brands, we hope to exceed customer expectation,” said Vikas Chadha, Executive Director and Chief Financial Officer, Keys Hotels. Keys Hotels says that since this partnership, about 20 to 25 per cent of their bookings come through Paytm. keyshotels.com, paytm.com
India is one of them apart from Saudi Arabian Airlines and Etihad Airways. This means, 17 services to Kozhikode have stopped. Cochin International Airport (CIAL) has assured airlines of being abled to accommodate additional flights, including seasonal Haj pilgrims from Kozhikode. Emirates already flies daily from here. However, Air India Express, a budget airline by Indian national carrier Air India, will introduce more flights between Kozhikode and Gulf destinations. “Air India Express will give more focus to Kozhikode and start more services from there to Middle East destinations if major airlines pull out from there,” says Aby George, Dy Chief of Customer Relation, Air India Express. This comes at a time when major airlines are seizing services to the said airport due to lackadaisical speeds of its runway re-carpeting. The work may take about 18 months to complete. kozhikodeairport.com
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BUDGET
India 2016
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Akanksha Maker analyses the impact of this year’s Union Budget on travel
16 APRIL 2016
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A
s the country experiences the wave of “Make in India” and fast-paced economic growth, this year’s Union Budget announced significant changes that will impact both business and leisure travel. The most noteworthy announcement with respect to the industry is the plan to develop 160 non-functional airports across India. Since most of these airports are situated in tier II and tier III cities, this particularly focuses on improving regional air-connectivity. Arun Jaitley, India’s finance minister said, ”In civil aviation, 160 non-functional airports to be developed at a cost of `50-100 crore each and ten of 25 defunct airstrips to be developed in partnership with state government.” The government believes that better connectivity to regional zones will help achieve the minimal flying cost target (`2,500 per hour). The announcement is a part of the government’s low-cost airport plan, that aims to make flying more economical for the average Indian. This is a win-win situation for most travel entities including airlines, hotels, online travel agencies, and tourism bodies. Manmeet Ahluwalia, Marketing Head, Expedia India, says “We see a specific focus on enhancing regional and last mile connectivity and innovation in the passenger transport segment. In fact, increased regional connectivity will also give a fillip to outbound tourism from tier II and III cities due to higher accessibility. The government is adopting measures from some of the thriving global tourist destinations, wherein archaic public transport is critical not only for daily commuters but also the backbone for tourist traffic.” Evidently, the government realises the importance of inbound tourism (both leisure and business). In an attempt to simplify and proliferate travel to India, the finance minister announced an increase in baggage allowance for international passengers. Now, baggage declaration will only be required for those carrying dutiable goods. The Budget also focused on bolstering culture (and travel) within the country, with the announcement of a nationalised engagement initiative that will attempt to capitalise on “unity in diversity” by creating closer engagement between states in a structured manner. “Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat” programme will be launched to link states and districts in an annual programme that connects people through exchanges in areas of language, trade, culture, travel and tourism. We will do this through mutual agreement with participating states and districts,” Arun Jaitley says. While emphasis was laid on tourism, the hospitality industry found no direct mention in the Budget. Some significant recommendations on the promotion of medical tourism, extension of e-visa and the reduction of service-tax were expected — which were all missing from the big announcement. However, experts believe that the focus on infrastructure, airports and regional connectivity will boost inbound tourism,
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with an obvious positive impact on the hospitality industry too. The disappointing aspect of the Union Budget was the increase in the excise duty of Air Turbine Fuel (ATF), from eight per cent to 14 per cent, which is bound to increase flying costs, eventually affecting passengers. The silver lining here is that the supply to Scheduled Commuter Airlines (SCA) from the Regional Connectivity Scheme will be exempted from this increase. (A Scheduled Commuter Airline is an airline with an aircraft capacity of 100 seats or less and a paid up capital of `2 crore. The Regional Connectivity Scheme aims to bring flying cost down to `2,500 per passenger for a one-hour flight in regional zones.) ExpErts spEak “The Union Budget 2016 has laid out big investments for the infrastructure sector which include allotment of funds for the development of roads and highways and an action plan to revive 160 non-functional airports. These steps come as a welcome move for the travel and tourism sector. The current government’s focus on the Indian startup ecosystem is very positive and the Union Budget 2016 has reinforced support for entrepreneurship and startup businesses in India.” -aloke Bajpai, CEO & Co-Founder, ixigo “The Budget for 2016-17 is for the heartland of India, which is overall focused on agriculture, infrastructure development, education and health. The finance minister this year has laid emphasis on rail and road infrastructure developments as well as on new startups and “Make in India” campaign, which are good measures. We welcome, Cabinet’s decision of reviving underserved airports by allocating a budget of `50 – 100 crore each, developing 10 out of 25 non-functional airstrips in partnership with state governments, which I believe will definitely accelerate the development of regional aviation sector and will also give a well deserving boost to the overall aviation sector.” -ankur Bhatia, Executive Director, Bird Group and Member, CII National Committee on Civil aviation “The finance minister announced that 160 nonfunctional airports will be developed at a cost of `50-100 crore each. This is a welcome move as it will improve connectivity within the country especially in tier II and beyond towns and cities and thereby, help boost the travel and tourism industry. The Budget also proposed to increase the excise duty on Aviation Turbine Fuel from 8 per cent to 14 per cent. The financial health of the aviation industry of the country was just beginning to stabilise but this move will have some adverse impact on the demand side for the industry.” -rajesh Magow, Co-Founder and India CEO, MakeMytrip.com APRIL 2016 17
INBOX Get in touch at mail@panaceapublishing.co.in or businesstraveller.com/discussion
POST Isaac Levy, Singapore
POST Alistair Nicoll, Sheffield
18 APRIL 2016
nO enTrY
SIngaPOre aIrlIneS rePlIeS:
I recently received my Singapore Airlines [SIA] Krisflyer Elite gold status. I boarded a flight with the airline from New York JFK to Frankfurt, with a continuation on to Singapore. In addition to having to do this 22-hour journey (thankfully in business class), my colleague asked if I would join him on a [SIA subsidiary Silk Air] flight connecting to Penang on the morning of my arrival, and we bought economy seats. On arrival at [Changi] airport I headed to the [Silverkris business class] lounge, hoping to have a quick refresh after being in the air, knowing I was going straight into a meeting. I was refused entry. The fact that I was a gold member had no impact, nor did the fact I had just flown two long-haul sectors in business class. My next leg was in economy and hence disqualified me. SIA representatives were adamant, irrespective of the circumstances, that the rules were the rules.
All of our Silverkris lounges are departure lounges so entry is based on a customer’s onward boarding pass rather than a flight they have already taken. This can cause some confusion because the Silverkris lounge in Changi is accessible to arriving passengers as it is in the transit area, where arriving and departing passengers mix. Owing to your economy class boarding pass with Silk Air, access to the Silverkris business class lounge would not have been permitted. Staff should have advised that your Krisflyer status meant you could use our Krisflyer gold lounge, close to the Silverkris lounge. This does not have showers but offers a range of other services. Please accept our apologies if we miscommunicated this. The business lounge is very busy, so we seek your kind understanding that this means we need policies in place to manage this, including providing a dedicated lounge for our valued frequent flyers to use in a situation such as yours. Details of our policies can be found at singaporeair.com.
COmmOn QueueS
QaTar aIrwaYS rePlIeS:
I flew first class with Qatar Airways from Bangkok to Doha in February. There was no dedicated first class check-in and no queue management in operation and, despite the fact there were only three passengers in the cabin, I had to queue for about 30 minutes behind people checking in for business class. Response from the airline’s customer service was a standardised response that made no attempt to address my specific complaint and give a reason why the first class check-in was not available. It is very disappointing that Qatar seems to be five-star only once on board. My understanding is that at Manchester, the airline is not providing any lounge facilities during the refurbishment of the old (sub-standard) lounge. One thing is for certain – I will not be making any further bookings with Qatar until they sort out things on the ground and regret that I still have one more trip with them.
Providing an exceptional customer experience both on the ground and in the air is at the heart of Qatar Airways’ five-star service. Feedback is important to us and is always acted upon if within the airline’s control. We would like to apologise to the customer for any inconvenience caused if on this rare occasion our service did not meet our usual high standards.
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Your letters and posts
POST McWhirter DaTe Feb 2, 16:47
Swiss media reports that Emirates has applied to the local CAA for traffic rights to operate Dubai-ZurichMexico. Emirates would like fifth-freedom rights on the Zurich-Mexico sector. As both its Dubai-Zurich flights are operated by A380s one might expect Emirates will be operating the A380 to Mexico. If not then it would seem Emirates would utilise a B777 and therefore operate three daily flights Dubai-Zurich. Just a few weeks ago, Air France instigated A380 service into Mexico so the airport is able to handle the super jumbo although it’s not that easy, as Business Traveller reported at the time.
LetsFlyNow Feb 21, 21:43
This is a very interesting proposition. The Mexico market was apparently never served by Swissair and Edelweiss cancelled service a while back. I can imagine the heads at LH are spinning in 7 different directions and will do all they can to hinder this. LH must be having a major headache imagining losing all of those lucrative and premium Swiss passengers that fly via FRA to Mexico to arch rival EK. And they know these would probably choose EK. And reading the comments on that news website, most commenters seem to back the idea of EK being granted the rights alone based on the fact that they don’t consider Swiss Airline to be Swiss anymore but a German company. This could get interesting.
LuganoPirate Feb 22, 09:19
It will be interesting and it will likely be granted, but there will be a quid pro quo somewhere I’m sure. The Swiss were never really happy about the Lufthansa takeover, nor about the overfly restrictions over German airspace into ZRH, and as Swiss do not fly there it will of course be a political decision and a way for the Swiss to give a polite finger to the Germans.
POST AhmadAR DaTe March 6, 07:50
IS hOTel rOOm glOOm ThaT SerIOuS an ISSue? I prefer openable windows. When I ask hotel staff why locked openable windows cannot be unlocked by them, invariably their answer is that policy does not allow it due to risks associated with guest behaviour. No doubt a euphemism for guests trying to jump out. I had read an article on hotel gloom that reminded me of how serious the issue is. I have had occasional gloomy times in hotel rooms but fortunately these have been few and far between. Primarily because I tend to spend as little time in the room as I can. I am curious to know how pervading this gloom syndrome is.
GivingupBA Hotel gloom doesn’t afflict me, but I can imagine March 6, 09:22 travel and being away from home gets a lot of people Visit businesstraveller.com
down [perhaps rather than the hotel room itself? I’m not sure]. I always stay in the best possible hotel I can, even if I have to pay extra myself. That helps of course. And I never regret staying in a better place. LuganoPirate I prefer a light airy room and it annoys me the March 6, windows can’t be opened. As a result I got a 10:00 fireman’s key which opens most windows. MartynSinclair I remember a thread created some years ago about March 6, this very subject. 10:15 My way of dealing with this is:
1. On business, I prefer not to take suites (or overly large rooms) preferring to stay on an executive floor, close to the executive lounge. 2. Interact with fellow guests (mostly in same situation) and occasionally arrange to meet up with other single travellers (in similar situations) for drinks and dinners. This is exactly how I met several Business Traveller forum members in BKK over the years. 3. Let the hotel managers know when I am not working to see if they know of anyone eating alone. Often suggested a “travelling alone” table in the dining room for this very reason. 4. My room, on arrival and during my entire stay, is set to curtains wide open to let daylight in. I sleep with curtains open, it’s the best alarm clock. 5. Sometimes make appointments for late afternoon (especially mid trip). usually extends to drinks and dinner. 6. Usually, I don’t tell my friends I am travelling; that way we still keep in touch. Once they know I am away, the phone stops ringing. Generally, subject to time zones, I try to keep social things back home as if I was there. 7. For football fans, try and find a bar supporting your local club and yes in BKK there is a Sheffield Wednesday bar (Pickled Liver in soi 7). 8. If religion is your thing, try and find a church, synagogue, mosque. Amazingly, when I go, I generally meet a close connection - but always someone who knows someone I know. 9. Today, it’s so easy and cost effective to keep in touch. Roaming charges are reasonable, wifi calling, Skype, FaceTime - it’s a pity when people call you from home, they hear a foreign ring tone and immediately put the phone down, thinking its going to cost you a fortune. 10. As we all often say, the world and the opportunities created are endless. If you have time off work when overseas or time out, go and explore the city you are in. In my spare time, I run or just go to a bar (to recover). I accept loneliness and “hotel room melancholy” can kick in. To those that it does, I hope this helps. APRIL 2016 19
DATA ZONE Helping you make the right travel decisions
Profile of the Asian business traveller Top three priorities for business travellers in Asia Indonesia
China
Singapore
Japan
2
-
1
3
1
1
2
2
2
-
-
-
-
1
2
3
3
-
-
3
1
-
-
-
-
3
-
-
India
Indonesia
China
Singapore
Japan
1
2
2
1
1
2
2
1
1
-
2
3
3
-
3
3
1
1
-
3
-
-
3
-
-
-
-
2
-
-
Overall
India
Convenient flight times
1
Direct flights
2
Comfortable seats
3
Value for money
-
Feeling of being valued as customer
-
-
Service
-
-
HOTEL SELECTION
Overall
Location near work Facilities that allow working effectively Value for money Location near sights Award-winning service
FLIGHT SELECTION
Four Asian business traveller archetypes STEREOTYPICAL SUIT
SERVICE SEEKER
BELT-TIGHTNER
34%
32% Convenience is of utmost importance
POINTS MAXIMISER
17%
Values service, brand and facilities
Loyalty card
17%
Acutely price-sensitive and value seeking
Prioritises loyalty points and comfort
Characteristics 61%
52%
are over the age of 35
are under the age of 35
Found across all countries, companies,
are Indonesian or Chinese
55%
59%
are willing to fly LCCs
53%
67%
are from SMEs
are willing to pay for ancillary
are Singaporean or Japanese 73%
94%
and positions in roughly equal proportions
25%
are in junior positions
predominantly travel domestically
services on flight/hotel
65% are frequent travellers (3+ times a year)
Defining preferences • Direct flights • Convenient arrival/departure times
• Award-winning services
• Lowest fare
• Loyalty and rewards programmes
• Convenient hotel location
• Work and leisure facilities
• Value for money
• Comfortable seats and
• Feeling valued as a customer
luxurious rooms
Source: Asian Business Traveller Survey 2015 (Results based on 2,565 respondents spread across India, Indonesia, Singapore, China, and Japan.) 20 APRIL 2016
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TRIED&TESTED Hotels
JW Marriott Marquis Dubai
BACKGROUND The world’s tallest hotel, JW Marriott Marquis, is the 76-storey flagship property of the Emirates Airlines Hotel division. The 1,608-rooms twintower skyscraper is managed by Marriott International. Opened in 2012, the hotel houses 1,600 guestrooms across 72 floors. WHAT’S IT LIKE Luxurious. The striking property is visible from a distance while driving along Sheikh Zayed Road. Upon arrival, the glassed doors and metallic exterior exude the opulence waiting for you inside. The lobby lives up to the glamour of this hotel, with its high ceilings, black and grey walls and a large flower arrangement in the centre that adds a touch of nature to the futuristic space. To the right is the way to tower B while walking left will take you to tower A. It’s easy to get lost in the grandeur of this modern hotel. WHERE IS IT On Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai’s prime business Visit businesstraveller.com
district. The Dubai Mall and Burj Khalifa are a 15-minute drive and the Business Bay Metro Station (Red Line) is at a walking distance. The airport is about 20 minutes away. ROOM FACILITIES For a hotel that houses over a thousand rooms, the base level Guest room that I stayed in was quite spacious. Of course, the higher you go, better are the views of Dubai’s skyline from the rooms’ French windows. Contemporary in design and feel, the space feels palatial. A large wooden desk with ports for different types of devices (including HDMI) is quite convenient. This is placed alongside a mirrored wall to add more area. The washroom with Aromatherapy Associates toiletries has an oversized bathtub alongside a glassed shower area. An iPod dock (plays radio too) placed next to the bed charges the phone while playing music. While wifi is complimentary,
wired internet is chargeable. Other in-room media options include a DVD and CD player. Sea View Guest room (88 sqm) and Deluxe Corner suite (44 sqm) are the other room categories, and a designated number of these including the Guest rooms have club lounge access. RESTAURANTS AND BARS Dining at the JW Marriott Marquis is an exquisite experience, especially when there are 14 dining outlets to pick from. Dinner at Tong Thai, Rang Mahal by Atul Kochhar (noted Indian celebrity chef), Izakaya (Japanese) or Positano (Italian) is a good idea. Vault is known for crafted cocktails and its collection of cigars while Velocity may interest those looking to watch a sports match. BUSINESS AND MEETING FACILITIES With 32 meeting rooms spread across 7,332 sqm of space that can accommodate 1,548, the JW Marriott Marquis is the preferred venue for corporate events and weddings in Dubai. LEISURE FACILITIES The Saray Spa, outdoor heated pool with a separate area for children, fitness centre and sauna. The spa houses a steam room, therapy baths and a lap pool. VERDICT Business friendly with a touch of luxury. The property is well-suited to meet the needs of a corporate traveller looking to stay in downtown Dubai.
TESTED BY Akanksha Maker
HOW MANY ROOMS? 1,608 —1,364 Standard Guest rooms, 240 suites, 4 Presidential suites.
HIGHLIGHTS Extensive dining options and room-views.
PRICE Internet rates for a midweek stay in a Guest room in May started at `13,738.
CONTACT JW Marriott Marquis, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, United Arab Emirates; +971 4 414 0000; marriott.com
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FREE WIFI MINIBAR 24hr ROOM SERVICE iPOD DOCK 11 RESTAURANTS 3 BARS GYM POOL 32 MEETING ROOMS APRIL 2016 21
TRIED&TESTED Hotels
Shangri-La Hotel Sydney
BACKGROUND The Shangri-La Sydney revealed 90 refurbished Horizon Club rooms and suites in 2015. The renovation includes the additional Grand Harbour View Room and Darling Harbour View Room types. The hotel also revamped its Horizon Club – now more than 20 per cent bigger at 335 sqm – where guests can take in harbour views via the 13 metrehigh windows. WHAT’S IT LIKE? Stepping into the lobby, I immediately sensed how busy the property was, but was swiftly greeted by a friendly guest relations manager who directed me to check-in at the Horizon Club on level 30. WHERE IS IT? The 36-storey hotel is positioned in the historic Rocks district, and is close to the Harbour Bridge and Circular Quay. Take a taxi (A$70/`3,368) from the airport and you’ll arrive in about 30 minutes. As taxis aren’t cheap in Sydney, you may want to consider Uber, which costs about A$40/`1,924. ROOM FACILITIES The hotel comprises 565 guest rooms and suites, all with views of either Darling or Sydney Harbour through triple-glazed windows, which ensure a quiet environment. I stayed at the Horizon Deluxe Darling Harbour View Room in a spacious corner room. The new design features a pale gold and blue décor theme that reflects the colours of Sydney Harbour. There is a sofa on the left, a tea table in the middle and 22 APRIL 2016
Samsung TV/DVD player on the right. There is a king-size bed with space to spare. To the right of the bed, there is a marble-topped cabinet located next to a dressing table. It is equipped with an espresso coffee machine, minibar, refrigerator, safe and kettle. The highlight of the room is the work desk. Situated in the corner of the room, you can work and enjoy the stunning view of Pyrmont Bay and northern Darling Harbour at the same time. Take a break to enjoy the view by sitting on the newly added cushioned window seats. There are three sockets on the wall near the TV, and also a USB port on the TV cabinet surface. Since there is still a distance between the sockets and the desk, it’s best to bring a longer wire or work close to the sockets at the end of the table. You are also advised to bring an international adaptor. The marble bathroom contains a separate bath and shower, and features L’Occitane amenities. CLUB LOUNGE The lounge is located on level 30 and can accommodate more than 120 guests. It features a communal table, a four-metre-long marbletopped solid timber centrepiece with a cold well from which guests can help themselves to premium Australian wines. There is also a hand-painted Australian native floral mural decorating the walls. The lounge serves canapés
and drinks in the evening: get there early to secure a seat as it can get busy. The lounge staff are friendly and helpful: my pre-ordered hot pancake was ready on time, meaning I could finish breakfast before I headed to the airport. RESTAURANTS AND BARS Blu Bar on level 36 offers panoramic views of Darling and Sydney Harbour. In addition to all-day dining at Café Mix, the hotel houses fine dining restaurant Altitude. The Epi-Curious menu is highly recommended, as you can try multiple signature dishes in small bites with wine pairing. BUSINESS AND MEETING FACILITIES There is a Grand Ballroom that can accommodate up to 850 guests, and 18 function rooms and boardrooms – including a covered outdoor venue – that can host between 10 and 400 people. LEISURE FACILITIES The health club is located on level 2 and is equipped with gym and indoor swimming pool. The Shangri-La’s signature Chi Spa is on the same floor, offering treatments such as massage and hydrotherapy. VERDICT Triple-glazed soundproof windows help deliver a quiet sleeping environment, and the views are stunning from the room, restaurants and club lounge.
TESTED BY Valerian Ho
HOW MANY ROOMS? There are 565 rooms in 19 categories, which include 527 rooms, 36 suites, and two apartments.
HIGHLIGHTS The soundproofed room and stunning views of Darling and Sydney Harbour.
PRICE Internet rates for a Deluxe Grand Harbour View Room in mid-May started from A$520/`25,031.
CONTACT 176 Cumberland Street, The Rocks, Sydney, NSW 2000, Australia; tel: +61 29250 6000; shangri-la. com/sydney/shangrila
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11 RESTAURANTS
R
CONFERENCE
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POOL
3 BARS BUSINESS CENTRE 24-HOUR IN-ROOM DINING FACILITIES
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TRIED&TESTED Hotels
St Regis Mumbai BACKGROUND Housed in India’s tallest hotel tower (39 storeys), this property opened in 2012 as a Shangri-La, and then became the Palladium hotel. In September, after a renovation, it reopened as India’s first St Regis hotel. WHAT’S IT LIKE? The new property has become one of the city’s most luxurious, with the brand’s signature butler service and a professional sheen added by its Starwood management (although most of the staff were working for the Palladium before). After entering the hotel and undergoing various security checks, a lift takes you up to the ninth floor to a triple-height lobby. Here, you’ll find the work of Indian artists including Satish Gujral, Manu Parekh, Jogen Chowdhary and Manisha Parekh, with other pieces curated by Tushar Sethi, director of the Institute of Indian Contemporary Art. (You can book a tour of the hotel’s impressive collection.) The lifts from the lobby are complicated to work out, as not all of them stop on all levels and, at busy times, there can be quite a delay, although this may have been because at the time of my stay, several were under maintenance. WHERE IS IT? In Lower Parel, 17km from Chhatrapati Shivaji International airport, which takes anything from 30 to 90 minutes to reach, depending on traffic. The hotel is attached to the Palladium mall, which offers pretty much every store you can think of, from Burberry and Paul Smith to Hamleys and Marks and Spencer. ROOM FACILITIES The 395 rooms (including 39 Residential suites) have superb views of the surrounding city, and the vistas Visit businesstraveller.com
from the upper floors also include a sweep of the Arabian Sea. The rooms are on floors 12-28, with Residential suites (serviced apartments) on levels 29-32 and 34. Floor 36 hosts a private members’ club Equus. All rooms are large for central Mumbai, with entry-level Deluxe ones (45 sqm) featuring separate baths and showers, free wifi and the aforementioned butler service, which I have been unimpressed by at other St Regis properties but here works well. There is also a double-daily maid service. The rooms are attractively decorated, and the Residential suites are even more modern, with lighter colours, fitted kitchens and sitting areas for relaxing or eating. BARS AND RESTAURANTS The lobby-level St Regis Bar has the brand’s signature mural of the city the hotel is in, and the inviting Drawing Room serves tea, coffee and sweets. If you’re meeting someone during the day, the filling afternoon tea is well worth trying, with 20 types of tea
to choose from. One level up is the colonial-style Sahib Room and Kipling Bar which serves refined Indian cuisine and cocktails infused with spices. On the same level is the excellent all-day dining Seven Kitchens, named after the huge variety of food, including Indian, Mediterranean, Chinese and Japanese. There is a nightclub on floors 37 and 38, and two additional restaurants on the lower one – By the Mekong (serving South East Asian cuisine) and Yuuka (Japanese), as well as a bar/lounge called Asilo. BUSINESS AND MEETING FACILITIES On the lobby level there is “the Library” business centre, which also acts as an overspill check-in area when reception is busy. Also on this floor is the Astor ballroom, which can accommodate 350 people for a banquet, and the Terrace Garden for outdoor events. LEISURE FACILITIES The entire tenth floor is the “Wellness Area”– it includes the Iridium spa “tailored to guests’ elemental needs, which are as precious as the metal for which the spa is named”. There are also nine treatment rooms – six of which have tubs – and a huge, wellequipped 24-hour fitness centre and an outdoor swimming pool. VERDICT A fabulous refresh for this property, and with the addition of the new design elements and Residential suites, it is now one of the city’s best.
TESTED BY Tom Otley
HOW MANY ROOMS? 395 – 127 Deluxe, 120 Grand Deluxe, 82 Premier, 18 St Regis suites, seven Caroline Astor suites, a Metropolitan suite, Presidential suite and 39 Residential suites.
HIGHLIGHTS The outstanding views from the upper levels, free wifi and exemplary service.
PRICE Internet rates for a flexible midweek stay in a Deluxe room in May started from `15,500.
CONTACT The St Regis Mumbai, Senapati Bapat Marg, Lower Parel; tel +91 22 6162 8000; stregis.com/Mumbai
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FREE WIFI MINIBAR 5 RESTAURANTS 3 BARS POOL SPA GYM 18 MEETING ROOMS BUSINESS CENTRE APRIL 2016 23
TRIED&TESTED Hotels
The Leela Goa BACKGROUND Open since 1991 and with a US$20 million refurbishment in 2012, The Leela is a luxurious resort set in 75 acres complete with a 12-hole, par 3 golf course, several restaurants and swimming pools, extensive beach and additional facilities for Club visitors (it is a “hotel within a hotel”). WHAT’S IT LIKE? The size of the resort means there’s plenty of peace and quiet and the grounds are verdant, with numerous gardeners tending the flowers and trees, while next to the tennis courts a nursery of plants is used to restock the flower beds around the property. The design of the main lobby is “a contemporary celebration of the palatial architecture of ancient Vijayanagara empire and Goa’s rich Portuguese heritage” and is visually arresting. Drawing on inspiration from the Thousand Pillared Hall in the Meenakshi Temple at Madurai, the central columns form a corridor guarded by the fierce stone-carved Yalis with regal elephants at their feet leading to an impressive image of the dancing God Natraj. WHERE IS IT? Around 50km south of Goa airport (about one hour’s drive) on a peninsula of land between the Arabian Sea and the Sal river. The resort is on Mobor beach, which as it runs north becomes the better known (and busier) Cavelossim beach. Helicopter transfers are also available, judging by the two we saw landing during our stay. ROOM FACILITIES The 206 rooms and suites predominantly look out onto decorative lagoons complete with water lilies and low bubbling fountains, crisscrossed by wooden and 24 APRIL 2016
stone bridges. The rooms primarily fall under The Club, Premiere rooms, and Lagoon rooms and suite categories. Within the resort there is also a Club (a hotel within a hotel), with a dedicated butler service, airport transfers via limousine, outdoor showers and private plunge pools. Decoration is restrained, with carved wooden Indian beds and furniture, and Colonial style ceiling fan but with good air conditioning, and dark wood floors. All rooms have a Sony TV, tea/coffee maker, separate bath and shower areas, and Leela branded amenities. Wifi is complimentary for up to three devices, though it is quite slow. Higher speed connectivity is available for a fee. BARS AND RESTAURANTS There are eight bars and restaurants, including Aqua, which is the poolside entertainment lounge. Susegado on the beach is seasonal (November until May) and serves fresh fish and also grilled meat, though it also has a tandoor for baking the fish. There is an Italian restaurant (the Riverside), and then in the main building the Jamavar Indian restaurant for a la carte choice of Indian and Goan fine dining specialities, and The Restaurant, open all-day, has a choice of a la carte and buffet food. BUSINESS AND MEETING
FACILITIES There are several indoor meeting rooms including the Aparanta Ballroom (250 for a banquet) and Hampi Ballroom (100 for a banquet), two additional meeting rooms (Badami and Bidar, each accommodating 14 boardroom style) and The Leela Garden, an open lawn and beachside. LEISURE FACILITIES As you’d expect from the resort, there are plenty of options here, from the two swimming pools including one with a waterfall at one end and a cave to swim through. There is a fitness club, two tennis courts and a badminton court, and a 12-hole, par 3 golf course (chargeable at `1500 per person per round, including golf club hire). Bikes can be hired to cycle around the resort, while The Leela spa — Amalya — has a comprehensive list of treatments and is open 0700-2200 daily. Below the main restaurant Aqua is the “Entertainment Lounge” where as well as another bar, there is a pool table and table tennis table, plus the large meeting and banqueting rooms. The hotel also has its own shopping arcade. VERDICT The renovation in 2012 has kept The Leela fresh, and the service is exemplary throughout the resort, with employees stopping to say hello and many greeting you by name after only a few days, particularly in the restaurants.
TESTED BY Tom Otley
HOW MANY ROOMS? 206 rooms: 94 Lagoon Terrace, 66 Conservatory Premier, 21 Lagoon suites, 5 Lagoon Deluxe suites, 9 Club suites, 6 Club Pool suites, 4 Royal villas and 1 Presidential villa.
HIGHLIGHTS The flora and fauna are very impressive, with information boards on the various birds, flowers and trees in the resort. Free wifi is a plus.
PRICE Internet rates for a midweek stay in May started from `9.525.
CONTACT The Leela Goa, Mobor, Goa; tel: + 91 832 662 1234; theleela.com
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FREE WIFI MINIBAR 24hr ROOM SERVICE 5 RESTAURANTS 3 BARS 4 MEETING ROOMS GYM SPA POOL
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TRIED&TESTED Flight
Virgin Atlantic B787-9 Premium Economy Hong Kong-London UPPER CLASS
BACKGROUND Virgin Atlantic replaced its ageing A340-600 with the brand new B787-9 on the Hong Kong-London route in July last year. CHECK-IN I arrived at Hong Kong International Airport at 2100 for my 2345 flight. I checkedin at the premium economy counter, there was no queue so the process was fast. Premium economy passengers can select their seat up to 336 days before the flight. I had preselected aisle seat 24H, however due to two passengers requesting to sit together, I was pleasantly surprised to find staff had moved me to the front-row aisle seat 21H. I passed security and immigration, and was airside in about 15 minutes. LOUNGE I visited the Clubhouse (not available to Premium Economy passengers, in this case, the writer had a voucher) located near gate 36 on level 7. It was reopened in July after six weeks of renovation. The moderately sized 110-seat lounge is found at the end of a long corridor, featuring a bar and TV area with long sofas and small tables. I was quite hungry, so I ordered the white bean herb soup, a toasted steak sandwich, and a vanilla and passion fruit panna cotta for dessert. The food arrived in ten minutes and was delicious. BOARDING Boarding for flight VS207 began at 2310, but I didn’t leave the lounge until the final call at 2325. It took about 10 minutes to reach gate 43 and there was no queue as I was one of the last to board. After I settled down, I was offered a welcome drink. THE SEAT There are 35 premium economy seats arranged in a 2-3-2 configuration, located in front of economy class. The leather seat is comfortable Visit businesstraveller.com
and spacious, with decent sized armrests meaning you won’t easily bump your neighbour. The touchscreen entertainment system is stored between seats, and offers more than 100 movies, TV programmes and music options. There is a USB port located under the screen, where you can charge your smartphone or iPad. A touch-sensitive remote control is also attached. WHICH SEAT TO CHOOSE Row 21 offers more legroom as it is at the front, however front row aisle seats may be bothersome as they are close to the galley and washrooms. I would recommend window seats (A,K) on the front row: no need to cross over your neighbour to visit the washroom thanks to the extra legroom, and more privacy. THE FLIGHT The doors closed immediately after I boarded and the flight pushed back at 2340 for a midnight take-off. After the seat-belt sign was turned off, a cabin crew member addressed me by my surname and offered me a footrest cushion. The ambient lighting changed from purple to orange as dinner was served. The starter, a garden salad with balsamic vinaigrette, was fresh and the vegetables were crunchy. Main course options included braised pork, fusilli pasta in tomato sauce, and braised chicken – I chose the latter. The chicken breast was enhanced with a ginger and onion sauce and accompanied by steamed rice, broccoli and fried ginger. I thought the chicken was perfectly seasoned and the rice was moist and soft. There was a choice of one red and one white wine – I tried the Spanish sauvignon blanc and it was a good pairing with the chicken. Dessert was a strawberry mousse
PREmiUm EConomy
EConomy
cheesecake – pleasant, but not particularly surprising. The lights were dimmed at around 0200. I reclined my seat fully – a fairly comfortable eight inches, requested an extra blanket to keep me warm, and enjoyed about five hours of uninterrupted sleep. After I woke up, I went to the galley to pick some nibbles from the “Wander Wall” – a feature available to premium passengers, where you can choose snacks such as chocolate, popcorn, crisps and a selection of soft drinks. Lights came on again around eight hours later, at 0215 local time for breakfast. There were three choices: two Western options and one Asian. I opted for the latter, which consisted of braised chicken with mixed vegetables in a light soy sauce with egg noodles and choi sum. The noodles were tasty, but a bit dry. ARRIVAL Descent was announced at 0340 and we landed on time at 0425 at T3. I was invited (by Virgin Atlantic, not otherwise available to Premium Economy passengers) to use the Revival Lounge and since I arrived quite early it was pleasantly empty. I used the shower facility and enjoyed another breakfast – this time a posh fry-up. VERDICT The seat was comfortable, and the crew was friendly. I particularly enjoyed the freedom of choosing snacks placed on the “Wander Wall”. Some additional storage space would have been nice.
TESTED BY Valerian Ho
DEPARTURE TIME 0000
JOURNEY TIME 12 hours 25 minutes
AIRCRAFT TYPE B787-9
CONFIGURATION 2-3-2
SEAT WIDTH 21in/53cm
SEAT PITCH 38in/97cm
SEAT RECLINE 8in/20cm
PRICE Internet rates for a midweek one-way premium economy flight from Hong Kong to London in May started from HK$10,900 (`95,226) including taxes, fees, charges and carrier imposed surcharges.
CONTACT virgin-atlantic.com APRIL 2016 25
airPorT hub… Singapore
Think bigger What’s ahead for Singapore’s premier air facility? John Church takes a look
26 APRIL 2016
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of our continuing focus to improve the shopping experience at Changi. New concepts such as the Wines & Spirits duplex store, the introduction of exciting cosmetic and perfume brands by The Shilla Duty Free and regular renewal of our retail mix have stimulated sales in our stores.” Changi currently has two runways and is working on a third. Terminal 4 is under construction and nearing completion, while a massive fifth terminal referred to as Changi East is planned into the next decade. The airport has a capacity for 66 million passengers a year. Built on the site of the old budget airline terminal, Terminal 4 will open in 2017 and add a further capacity of 16 million. T4 will showcase Changi’s self-service FAST (Fast and Seamless Travel) system. Then there is Jewel, a multi-use lifestyle concept designed by Moshe Safdie (the man behind Marina Bay Sands) scheduled for completion in 2018 and into operation in early 2019. With its man-made rain vortex, enormous indoor forest and jaw-dropping architecture, Jewel was built for big-ticket icon status. Together with Changi East, the airport is
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lanning ahead is embedded in the Singaporean psyche, and nowhere is this more evident than at the city-state’s front door – Changi Airport, a shining example of long-term development in anyone’s book. Back in 1975, when the decision to build Changi was made, planners included large parcels of reclaimed land that have since lain fallow awaiting development options. Terminal 1 opened on July 1, 1981, followed by T2 in 1991 and T3 in 2008. The airport was corporatised the following year and Changi Airport Group formed, which subsidises airport operations from the profits it makes from retail. CAG chief executive officer Lee Seow Hiang says that despite a challenging operating environment in the 2014/15 financial year, Changi Airport maintained passenger traffic of 54 million for the year. “Net operating revenue grew 2 per cent to more than S$2 billion (US$1.4 billion), boosted mainly by healthy growth in concession revenue, which helped to mitigate weaker aeronautical revenue due to a series of rebates extended to the airlines,” he says. “The increase in concession revenue is the outcome
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APRIL 2016 27
airport hub… Singapore
runway three may still have to move to T3, so it’s a whole network of taxiways that have to be constructed.” To complicate matters, the current site of Changi has a public road that would dissect the upgraded airport, splitting Terminals 1, 2, 3 and 4 from Changi East. The road, Changi Coast Road, has to be diverted to where the new coast is now, post reclamation. “So extending the runway itself is not an issue, it’s connecting it to the rest of the aviation network that is the challenge,” says Tan.
TERMINAL 4
implementing its three-runway system. T5 will be capable of handling 50 million passengers and all terminals and runways will operate as an integrated system with full connectivity for passengers, for example landing at T5 and connecting at T2. The target for completion is the middle of next decade. The three-runway system will be complete by the early 2020s, and the fifth terminal a few years later. “Our immediate capacity challenge is with runway capacity,” says Ivan Tan, senior vice president, corporate and marketing at Changi Airport Group (CAG). “With terminals we still have quite a bit of capacity. With the runways we are approaching a level where three will be a lot more comfortable. “Runway three is military at the moment, and it will have to be extended. But the real challenging work is to connect this, because a plane landing at 28 APRIL 2016
The first of these massive projects to roll out is Terminal 4, with a gross floor area of 1,95,000 sqm. Close to completion, the terminal now has airlines onboard. CAG announced in July that Korean Air, Vietnam Airlines, Air Asia Berhad, Indonesia Air Asia and Thai Air Asia would be joining Cathay Pacific in bringing their operations to T4. Cathay in particular is keen to bring a new brand design ethos for its airport lounge to the terminal. Negotiations are continuing with other airlines and CAG expects a few more onboard before T4 opens. Leasing of 17,000 sqm of retail space (about 80 outlets) is also underway. Tan Hanjie, manager of CAG’s T4 programme management office, says the terminal’s layout is simple, with upper-level departures and lower-level arrivals, similar to T1, T2 and T3. Passengers departing will be met with 17 check-in counters, with provision for one more, and can use either manual check-ins or the new FAST self-service Visit businesstraveller.com
Premium passengers will have 2,000 sqm of space dedicated to airline lounges in the transit area mezzanine level. CX has already identified an area for its lounge and CAG says there is room for about two more lounges, with several interested parties. Transit has 15,000 sqm of retail space, translating to 65 units of retail, F&B and food shops, while a walkthrough duty free covers 2,500 sqm. There is also a “heritage zone” planned, offering local brand retail and dining concepts. Landside offers 5,000 sqm of retail space, translating to 25 units of retail and F&B.
THE JEWEL
Clockwise from top left : T4 self-service check-in kiosks and bag drops; T4 under construction; Changi East versus West; The masterplan Visit businesstraveller.com
kiosks for fully automated check-in, bag drop, immigration clearance and departure gate boarding. Airlines have estimated they will save up to 40 per cent on manpower with the automated systems. The system is progressively rolling out in the other terminals but T4 will see the terminal-wide rollout of these options. T4 will feature centralised departure immigration and security screening, different to the other terminals. Beyond clearing immigration and security screening, passengers have no further checks at gates. Biometrics including facial recognition technology are in play here. When you enter and check-in the airport takes a picture of the day of you, and that will be matched against your passport. Just before you board your plane that same photo will again be matched with the passenger who is about to board, to ensure it is the same person. T4 is supported by 17 smaller aircraft bays for regional airlines and four bays that can support larger aircraft, primarily for CX. The distance from the lounge to the apron is less than 200 metres and aided by travelators. The terminal also supports eight bus gates with direct roadway access to 17 narrow body and nine wide body remote stands. “We adopted an open gate concept, so the passengers don’t need to arrive at the gate earlier. For arriving passengers it’s even more convenient,” Tan Hanjie says. “There is only one direction for people to move. They congregate at an escalator area and move through to immigration, clear immigration and on the left is baggage pickup and then through to the greeting hall. We’ll also offer a shuttle lounge for passengers needing to travel to T2.”
“We’re out to create something that’s truly world class, something that will have an affinity with Singapore and at the same time be recognisable around the world,” says Philip Yim, CEO of Jewel Changi Airport. Created with its multi-faceted exterior mirroring its name, Yim says Jewel’s environment is unique. “Gardens, synonymous with Singapore, in a controlled air-conditioned environment as well, but we’re talking 2,40,000 sq ft (22,300 sqm) – two-thirds the size of the Royal Botanic Gardens in Sydney – so it’s quite significant,” he says. “The central water feature is the key and the hub. It’s a rain vortex and the highest indoor waterfall in the world. Singapore is renowned for its weather and during massive rainstorms we will switch off the pump and the water will come from the natural currents from the storms.” The forest area will be cooled at the level of people traffic. There will be walking trails from levels one to five, or you can go through the retail levels. A light and sound show at night will be projected onto the vortex. Jewel will showcase 53,884 sqm of retail space and a 130-room hotel, with rooms leased by the hour, by Yotel. Total floor area is more than 1,30,000 sqm plus 2,500 parking spaces. T1 will be connected to Jewel, also T2 and T3 in the future will be linked by skybridges. Jewel sits between all three existing terminals. “Currently you can’t walk between all three terminals,” says Yim. “You can walk between T2 and T3, but you can’t actually walk between T2 and T1, and T3 and T1, so in the future it will all be connected up.” Also planned are early check-in counters so those with layovers enjoy more time before their flight. “This will also be the place for connecting passengers on flight cruises. So they fly in, get all their bags cleared here, check-in for their cruise and are coached APRIL 2016 29
AIrporT Hub… Singapore
to the cruise terminal. It’s similar for land transfers to Malaysia as well, so it will be a multi-nodal transfer hub.” “At the same time, because Jewel sits in front of T1, it will increase T1’s handling capacity to 24 million. So come 2018, our current 66 million will go up to 85 million, giving us enough headroom into the middle of next decade.”
CHANGI EAST
Dwarfing them all for sheer size is Changi East, the fifth terminal and third runway that will transform Changi into a world giant among airports. “Obviously there is growth but one fundamental reason is we believe capacity is the basic hygiene factor behind service,” says Choy Da Wen, senior vice president, Changi East programme management office. “If you don’t have the capacity, no amount of smiling faces, swimming pools or gardens is going to make up for the fact that there are long queues everywhere, planes can’t come and go etc.” Changi East covers 1,000 hectares next to the existing Changi West (1,300 hectares), which houses the other terminals and Jewel. The third runway is two-thirds built and requires extending, having been in use for Singapore’s air force, which has moved its classified facility to the East. Choy explains that over the years as Changi has grown, it has found there are great advantages to small and modular terminals. People love the fact that each terminal is small, and you can get out quickly from the gates. “But operationally the bigger airline groups, and you see this with SIA and the bigger carriers, they have outgrown a single terminal,” he says. “Today SIA straddles T2 and T3, and operationally it’s a little bit ugly. You may find if you’re trying to pick 30 APRIL 2016
up a friend or relative on an SIA flight, you wouldn’t know which terminal they are landing on until two hours before the landing, because they have to decide where to distribute the aircraft, so it creates problems for the big carriers. “With the benefit of this knowledge we are confident enough to build T5 as a single integrated complex of about 50 million [passengers per annum capacity] to begin with, and that is big enough to house most of these big airline groups. “We still have to negotiate the kinds of carriers going in there, but based on the product positioning it’s likely to be carriers that are networked and have hubbing operations, and that do a lot of transfers. Definitely one of the first customers we are talking to is SIA.” Choy says the remaining terminals, small and modular, are ideal for smaller carriers “because they don’t need transfers – they just want the short walk from the curb to the gate”. He says for the massive building programme to succeed, the first priority is runway capacity. “Beyond the terminal capacity we are building with T4 and so on, runway capacity is quite important. One of the first priorities is to get a three-runway system up that massively expands our capacity for the airport, not just for T5, but for T1, T2, T3 and T4 as well, and we hope to have that done by the early 2020s, something like 2022 – we try to keep it a bit vague [because] the issue is there are multiple steps to this. “A three-runway system is not the same as runway three. We’ll first get runway three up and running as a runway, but then we will need to close off runway two for a while in order to connect up the supporting taxiways and the underground facilities and so on, before all three runways are operational again. Visit businesstraveller.com
TECH WITH A SMILE
“So runway three first, then a period of closure of runway two, we’re trying to keep it at less than two years at this point, when all the connections are done to make it a single entity, and then three runways become operational.” The first package of runway works are scheduled to begin this month. Funding for this joint private public project comes initially via a S$3 billion (US$2.1 billion) government injection as well as an undisclosed CAG contribution and a user pays formula as yet undefined.
CULTURAL CLOSENESS
From left to right: Changi Jewel’s forest and “rain vortex”; CAG’s retail clients like DFS are upgrading their facilities at Changi, Touch-screens at Changi Visit businesstraveller.com
A curious element behind all this excellence is a cultural nuance most of us miss as we swing through Changi on our way to somewhere else. “Singaporeans really identify with the airport,” Tan says. “Singaporeans bring their families to the airport at the weekend. One fact is because it’s airconditioned, which is very important. But there are also wide open spaces where kids won’t get hurt, and of course lots of things to do.” Tan Hanjie agrees. “When I was young I used to pester my parents to bring me over to take a look. The airport is a place close to the heart of Singaporeans.” This affectionate attachment that most of us might find a little difficult to understand may also explain why the airport is consistently viewed as one of the world’s best. “Changi Airport is, in many ways, a microcosm of Singapore and what the country stands for,” says Lee, CAG’s chief executve officer. “A tiny city-state with no natural resources, Singapore strives relentlessly for excellence and innovates continually to remain relevant and competitive in the global economy. “Similarly, this spirit of continual innovation and progress is an integral part of our ethos in managing Changi Airport and ensuring that it continues to be a leading air hub in the world. As we continue to strive for excellence in the day-to-day operations of our current terminals, it is also critical that we plan ahead for the capacity needs of the future. This is a philosophy that has underpinned Changi’s growth and development over the past three decades.
Co-ordinating Changi’s daily operations, which incorporates more than 200 organisations and 40,000 staff, is a tough call, but one relished by Steve Lee Hee Kwang, CAG’s chief information officer and senior vice president, corporate IT and technology. With a passion for analytics, Lee has introduced a variety of systems with catchy acronyms based on a simple concept. “The idea is we take feedback and collaborate with our partners to constantly improve our service with a common IT system so that everyone in the 200 organisations can see the same picture,” he explains. This translates to innovative touchscreens scattered throughout Changi for passengers to register their iconic smiley or sad face on everything from toilet cleanliness to immigration services. It’s empowering and it enables instant feedback to areas (e.g. a dirty toilet) that can then be addressed straight away. Staff productivity and service quality have improved markedly with the introduction of this system. Advanced analytics go further with real time reports on passenger flows and even incoming flights ahead of time, so that appropriate resources can be channelled to prevent bottlenecks at check-in or immigration.
“As we near the halfway mark of the 2015/16 financial year, we have been encouraged by improvements in traffic demand, driven by growth in the China, India and Vietnam sectors,” says Lee. “The slate of new airlines that have joined Changi in the recent months, such as Batik Air, Thai Lion Air and Myanmar National Airlines, as well as new flights being mounted by many of our existing carriers, are also expected to give traffic a boost. “If economic and market conditions remain stable, we are optimistic that we will continue to register positive growth for this year.” With a flight every 90 seconds into Changi, the airport is betting its expansion on continued market growth. “Asia-Pacific will continue to power on,” says Choy. “We still believe we’re only beginning to see the emergence of the middle class. The very nature of APAC’s geography makes aviation the only real mode of transport for the region. You have to travel by air. These factors power growth. “We pride ourselves of being ahead of the demand curve. We will need something in the 2020s when we look at the charts, at the growth. And not just thickening old roots, but growing new ones. The tier-three cities of today will be the tier-one cities of tomorrow in China, India and Indonesia.” n APRIL 2016 31
PRIVATE AVIATION
the jet set Private jets are targeting the corporate market – could there be a business argument for using one? Tom Otley reports
32 APRIL 2016
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magine an aircraft waiting for you, rather than you waiting for it. It’s at the airfield nearest to your work or home, and it will fly to the landing strip closest to your destination. If you’re late, it will wait, and if you’re early, there’s a good chance it can set off ahead of schedule. Departure formalities are swift. There’s no restriction on bags or liquids, and if you have a drink of choice that you like to sip while taxiing to the runway, it will have been prepared if you’ve prespecified – if not, simply pour whatever you brought with you. Private jets are for the privileged few. While millions crowd through airports every day to take both short- and long-haul flights, only a few thousand people will be experiencing corporate jets. For most of us, aviation has improved in recent years, with a greater choice of airlines, routes and new-generation aircraft such as the A350, B787 and A380. Marketing efforts have focused on bringing the thrill of flying back to a process that has become rather too pedestrian for an activity that takes place above 30,000 feet. Higher ceilings, mood lighting, quieter cabins, larger windows and more favourable pressurisation have enhanced the experience. But ask anyone who has been on a business jet and they’ll tell you: nothing beats your own plane. In corporate jet terms, the Cessna Citation Latitude, made by Textron Aviation, is a midsize aircraft capable of seating nine passengers (although six would be a more comfortable number when opening champagne). Its modern design allows for the floor to be flat rather than having a sunken corridor, with a cabin six feet in height and 77 inches across. There are large, evenly-spaced windows that give great views, and it’s quiet both inside and out, considering the size of the aircraft and the speeds it attains (826 kmph). So what’s it like to fly on a corporate jet? The
Private jets climb quickly to reach high altitudes, where the air is thinner and they can reach their optimum speed – commercial jets typically stick at 39,000 feet.
Left: Cessna Citation Latitude Visit businesstraveller.com
APRIL 2016 33
PRIVATE AVIATION
“Business aviation allows you to exchange an infinite resource – money, which you can go and earn more of – for a finite resource – your time” Above and right: Citation Latitude aircraft exterior and interior
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main difference from a propeller aircraft is the acceleration, which is nothing short of astonishing. Compared with the lumbering of larger aircraft, a private jet is like being in a slingshot. There’s a purity of purpose in the seconds from where flight seems inevitable to the ground suddenly vanishing beneath you. This was only a short, 45-minute flight around Biggin Hill in South London, at an altitude much lower than what the Citation Latitude is capable of (maximum operating altitude of 45,000 feet). Private jets climb quickly to reach high altitudes, where the air is thinner and they can reach their optimum speed – commercial jets typically stick at 39,000 feet. The first time I flew on one – a Vistajet Bombardier Challenger 605 – was from Luton airport to the Monaco Yacht Show. We left behind the private jet terminal of an overcast Luton mid-morning and, a little over an hour later, were flying along the Côte d’Azur, spotting first Cannes and Antibes before landing at Nice. The only difficulty in making our lunch appointment on board the private yacht was the traffic entering Monaco. But, then, isn’t that the
sort of problem every multimillionaire faces?
COUNTING THE COST
For all this glamour, it’s almost reassuring to hear about the rather workaday problems the private jet industry has faced over the past few decades. Despite all the talk of the “1 per cent” unaffected by economic woes, private jet sales were down, with an oversupply by 2011. Fewer individuals, syndicates and companies were buying them, and if they did have some, they were finding them difficult to sell, and difficult to recoup the running costs by chartering them out, since demand for this had also dropped. Now, the market is starting to recover. Oliver King, managing director at Avinode, which provides the technology for brokers and owners to charter their private aircraft, says, “It was flat in 2014. Flown activity did not grow, but capacity had been taken out of the market and a number of operators exited and consolidated.” In tough times, it’s not just who is buying jets, but also how much they cost to run once you have Visit businesstraveller.com
one. One answer is to have other people charter it to make back some of the cost, which means turning it over to a managing agent and allowing them to deal with brokers. How much does it cost to charter a jet? A light jet such as the Cessna Citation CJ2 costs roughly `1,40,000 per hour to fly (excluding all the fixed costs). The meter starts running from the minute the engines turn to when they are switched off.
PRIVATE JETs IN INdIA Chartering private jets in India is a trend that is yet to catch up with the voracity with which the USA, England and now Europe engage in this activity. Here is why: under-developed infrastructure, daunting permit acquiring procedures, and high duty. Delhi’s Safdarjung has too many restrictions on flights, and expansion plans for Mumbai’s Juhu aerodrome have been delayed. However, the trend is catching up. The option is not entirely lost and has been available for a while. Here is a list of private jet companies that have a market in India: ■ Air Charter Service aircharterservice.co.in ■ Private Charter privatecharter.in ■ Imperial Air imperialair.in ■ Paramount Business Jets paramountbusinessjets.com ■ Titan Aviation titanaviation.co.in ■ Quick Flight quickflight.co.in ■ Charter Plus charterplus.in
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“Private jets are at the semi-top end of aviation,” says Alex Berry, group marketing and sales director at broker Chapman Freeborn. “The Citation Latitude is what we call a super mid-size aircraft; in car terms, it’s a S500 Mercedes-Benz. In reality, there are thousands of flights every day in twin turboprop aeroplanes, and you could rent a commercial aircraft for `60,000 or `70,000 per hour for two or three seats with a range of a couple of hours.” Still, if the aim of the industry is to persuade us to move out of business class and on to private jets, it must try to achieve efficiency in its processes so it can charge a lower rate. The owner covers most of the fixed costs, so there’s the possibility of a flight being keenly priced, but “some 55 per cent of bookings are one-way flights”, King points out. “That’s a problem for the industry. There are 3,500 empty legs in the system at any one time in Europe.”
LAST-MINUTE LEGS
If you don’t mind losing the flexibility of a private jet, but still want the convenience – or simply the experience – of flying one, most brokers offer empty legs. For instance, Victor, a company that calls itself “a new benchmark in private jet charter”, advises that “by booking wisely you could save up to 75 per cent of the cost of a conventional private jet charter”– it has a list of empty legs at flyvictor.com/ flights. Others argue that empty legs aren’t as practical as they may seem: “There’s a whole misconception around empty legs,” Berry says. “While an owner APRIL 2016 35
PRIVATE AVIATION
HOsPITAlITy gROuPs THAT OffER PRIVATE jETs Taj Air began offering its private jets to guests from 1996. Its fleet comprises of two heavy jet aircrafts: Falcon 2000 (eight passenger seats and flying range of 5,555km or six flying hours) and Falcon 2000LX (nine passenger seats and flying range of 7,400km or eight and a half flying hours). These begin from `3,25,000 plus taxes per hour on the Falcon. A captain, co-pilot and flight attendant are present on the aircraft at any given operational hour. For a quick quote, and to book an aircraft, visit tajaironline. com/quickquote. Oberoi Aviation flies the Hawker 850XP executive jet that seats eight people and has a flight range of 4,893km. The jet has an actual capacity for 13 passengers, but Oberoi reserves five for crew. All their flights originate from Delhi, which means that
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charges are calculated from the time the aircraft leaves Delhi and returns to base station. Flying charges include the cost of aircraft fuel, oil, maintenance, landing and parking charges, in flight meals, navigation fees and despatch costs of the aircraft. oberoihotels.com/aviation.aspx While the above mentioned cater to needs of business and leisure travellers alike, Four Seasons on the other hand focuses solely on holidayers. They have a 20-30 day itinerary that generally begin from North America or Europe and have India as one such port of interest. Agra and Mumbai are the Indian cities on Four Seasons Around the World itineraries. Of course, the cities visited are those that have a Four Seasons property. On an average, the holiday costs `88,33,999. Their fleet of one aircraft, the Boeing 757, can seat 52 people and has a crew of minimum ten to serve them. For more information, visit four-seasons.com/aroundtheworld/faq
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resource – money – which you can always go out and earn more of, for a finite resource – your time, which you’ll never get more of,” says Berry. “This is the point [that needs to be made], instead of telling the story that everyone can fly private. They can’t. You need a certain level of income. It isn’t as high as people would imagine, but there is that level and the industry needs to make that clear.” It would also help a sector used to dealing with last-minute requests. Most bookings are made at short notice – six to 72 hours before departure, on average, with 16 per cent being made in the last 24 hours, which is another challenge for any industry participant hoping to match supply with demand. Some of this is because of emergencies or to evacuate staff in destinations that have suddenly become unstable. Generally, the industry prefers early bookings and preserving the value and cachet of what it is selling. Like five-star hotels, operators fashion their jets as “tools for business”, maximising efficiency for busy executives. However, there’s also a big leisure market.
JOINING THE CLUB So how do you go about looking into arranging a corporate jet? The brokers are a good place to start – Air Charter Service, Air Partner, and Chapman and Freeborn are three of the largest, although there is more choice each year. Many will also offer some form of prepay card – worth considering if you need a jet in a hurry, since it saves a lot of paperwork and is refundable if you don’t end up using the full amount of credit. Unfortunately, booking a private jet is unlikely ever to be as easy as simply clicking a button, since it’s a complicated process, but it is being made simpler by technology. Almost all of these brokers offer apps that allow you to do everything from search for a jet to see which one you have booked and even check the pilot’s CV. Your end-to-end experience will also differ depending on where you fly from. Some aerodromes are basic, while TAG Farnborough, for example, takes great pride in its new facilities, which opened in December. If you are taking a private jet, consider the journey from door to door. This was something I neglected to think about after my flight on the Citation Latitude and so, ten minutes after landing, I was at a bus stop outside the airfield waiting for the number 246 to Bromley South station. Funnily enough, that wasn’t one of the pictures I put up on social media that day. n
“By booking wisely you could save up to 75 per cent of the cost of a conventional private jet charter”
Above: Citation Latitude Visit businesstraveller.com
might prefer an empty leg to be used, it’s not often practical since there are fundamental inefficiencies built into the process. A private charter means you go where you want, when you want. So if you want to delay three hours, that means the person who’s bought the empty leg at the other end has to accept there’s a caveat that it might not happen.” In addition, while the industry wants to be efficient, it doesn’t want to “erode price expectations”, in the words of King. Some think it’s the wrong way to attract customers. “Business aviation gives you the one thing that no one else can: the opportunity to exchange an infinite
APRIL 2016 37
BusIness In‌ Ahmedabad
City of change Akanksha Maker traces the development of Ahmedabad
38 APRIL 2016
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Above: Vastrapur lake Visit businesstraveller.com
t is safe to say the tier II cities in India are establishing themselves on the Indian map with the same momentum as the tier I cities. I had heard all about the Gujarat Development Model and how metropolises in this state stand as an example for the rest of the country — primarily why I was excited to see what was in store for me on my first trip to Gujarat. Arriving in Ahmedabad in the early hours of the day from Mumbai, I was greeted by a nip in the air before entering my pre-booked taxi. Apparently any distance that would take more than 15-minutes is considered far in Ahmedabad. The 20-minute bump-free ride from the airport to the city’s centre didn’t seem so bad for someone used to manic traffic and driving. It was impressive to look at Ahmedabad BRTS’s (bus rapid transit) stations, that could easily pass off as tram stops in a European country. The current state of affairs of “modern Ahmedabad” is the outcome of the transformation the city underwent in the past 15 years. “Ahmedabad was once considered as an overgrown village in many respects, with the old city being its centre. People would flock to the area around the Lal
Darwaja for entertainment, food and shopping, and denizens resided in traditional housing complexes called pols,” says Varun Maira, retired IAS officer and chairman of Uttar Gujarat Vij Company Ltd. “There used to be a bustle in this part of the town; picture smoke coming out of the chimneys and locals enjoying street-food in the erstwhile part of the city. The collapse of the textile mills [once synonymous with Ahmedabad] and its ancillaries made way for the development of the rest of the metropolis and the old township got left behind in the pages of history. The western part of Ahmedabad began to develop. Pin codes around Naranpura and Gulbai Tekra became the focal point of commerce and housing,” he adds. Maira believes the transformation of Ahmedabad followed that of Delhi, where the city grew out of its antiquity and turned into a modern metropolis. While the scale of this evolution is smaller, the change is quite visible. Modernisation of a metropolis involves massive changes to the infrastructure and urbanisation, and that’s precisely what happened with Ahmedabad as well. The comparisons with other metros became evident for Ahmedabad-based business traveller APRIL 2016 39
Business in… Ahmedabad
and CEO of Tower Overseas Vimal Ambani, who thinks Ahmedabad is a step ahead of other Indian cities in terms of urban development. “When I make this comparison, it’s of course within India. We are far behind China and Japan but definitely much ahead of even the biggest Indian cities. It’s safe and comfortable to drive at 120kmph in Ahmedabad, without feeling a single bump,” he says. Ambani 40 APRIL 2016
credits the government for “being supportive and commercially sharp in working with banks, and investing big bucks to improve the quality of Ahmedabad’s infrastructure.” The Gujarat Development Model executed by the government in the last decade is world-renowned for establishing high-standards in the country. The “Vibrant Gujarat” campaign, implemented by the tourism body of the state is aimed at instilling a sense of pride in Gujaratis, who are anyway known for their keen business sense. “[With the development model] the government has broadened horizons and indirectly boosted the self-esteem of the businessmen and denizens of Ahmedabad,” says Ambani. “Now days, the Gujaratis travel well and expose themselves to international business practices, which they integrate in their home-grown businesses.” There has been a huge generational shift in the past ten years, from Gujarati-speaking, dhoti-clad businessmen in their orthodox offices to suited professionals and their snazzy work spaces. Maira calls this the “heir-shift” generation, that are the descendants of industrialists who founded businesses in the 1980s. Many individuals have also ventured into the Visit businesstraveller.com
“Now days, the Gujaratis travel well and expose themselves to international business practices, which they integrate in their homegrown businesses.”
Above and below: Rickshaw on Ellis Bridge; Condominiums of western Ahmedabad Visit businesstraveller.com
service sector. “People are more litigate-minded now. Professionals in law, medicine, telecom, financial services, real estate and banking have either moved from other parts of India or moved out of their traditional set-ups. The “heir-shift” generation of Ahmedabad thinks differently; and like any other city, the change in its business environment can be attributed to the evolved mindset of its people,” says Maira. While the “heir-shift” generation has not necessarily carried on in family-owned companies, some large establishments have grown tremendously through the vision of generation-next. Even though the service sector is gradually emerging in Ahmedabad, family businesses continue to dominate. Ambani believes that the businessmen who manage home-run setups are more in touch with international markets because of trade with other countries. Global business ethics and values of professionalism are adopted within their internal systems. This reflects in the many businesses that do well here too. “Ahmedabad is investment friendly and a plethora of industries flourish here. The city is diverse in terms of business and there has been a huge influx of foreign investment in automobiles, pharmaceuticals, textiles and chemicals. While the factories are set up in the outskirts, their ancillaries thrive in the heart of the city. It’s safe to say Ahmedabad is not a one-leg pony anymore. Except for perhaps the technology firms that are doing better in cities such as Pune and Bangalore,” adds Ambani. “When it comes to factories, Ahmedabad offers the whole package — industrial land can easily be acquired and power is also readily available. For instance, a large-scaled global BPO can function smoothly without the requirement of a power-generator, a happening that’s a rarity almost everywhere else in India. More industries lead to higher employment rates that invite professionals from across India to move to Ahmedabad. The standard and quality of living is higher compared to some of the biggest Indian cities. Real-estate is more affordable and young urban Indians can lead a more comfortable life here than say, in Mumbai or Delhi, where one could probably afford a one-bedroom apartment at the rate of a three-bedroom apartment in Ahmedabad. This
further allures young talent considering a move to this city. Interestingly, a substantial percentage of Ahmedabad’s population has also invested in entrepreneurial organisations, creating waves in a traditional business city like Ahmedabad that has, until now, believed in the concept of family businesses, high-paying vocations and multinationals. Abhay Mangaldas’ great-grandfather was one of the pioneers of the textile mills that served as the economic backbone of the city. Instead of joining the family business, he converted their ancestral home into a hotel called The House of MG. With this, he ventured into what he believes is “heritage entrepreneurship”, that includes a boutique property, line of restaurants and stores. “After completing my education abroad, I spent ten years in Mumbai before moving back to Ahmedabad. It was in the late 2000s that groundlevel changes became visible. The western side of the city, the Sardar Patel Ring Road, the Sabarmati Riverfront, Kankaria Lake were developed. High-rise buildings and flyovers were built across the city. The number of hotels increased fivefold, and business travel began to thrive. There couldn’t have been a better time to enter the hospitality industry,” says Mangaldas. It wasn’t easy to imagine what the city must have been like before its rapid urbanisation. People are warm and wear smiles on their faces, reflecting a sense of contentment in their lives. Ambani points out that the sale of pharmaceuticals in the city has dipped in the last few years, indicating the improving health and happy lifestyle of the denizens of Ahmedabad. The ban on the consumption of alcohol also minimises crime rates, making this city relatively safer compared to the bigger metros. Ahmedabad has come a long way in the last decade and it isn’t overstating to say that it continues to exceed standards set by the big cities of India, in terms of infrastructure, business and quality of life. This city of enterprise continues to explore its versatility in trade and culture, making it not just a pitstop for international business travellers, but also a very hospitable home to Gujaratis and Indians from the rest of the country. n APRIL 2016 41
Business in… ahmedabad
Karamchand Gandhi’s headquarters between 1917 and 1930. With a museum, bookstore and Gandhi’s old residences, the Ashram is an interesting tryst with India’s struggle for independence from the British Raj.
Where to stay Hyatt
Above: Jama Masjid, Ahmedabad
GettinG around Travelling in the local rickshaw or “tuk-tuks” is as easy as hailing an Uber or an Ola. Taxi drivers are friendly and speak Hindi and Gujarati, even English if you’re lucky. Advisable to use taxis rather than the rickshaws though, as being a tourist invites the risk of being overcharged.
What to see Ahmedabad is full of surprises. Its cultural mix of antiquities from different religions is quite enticing. Begin your Gujarati sojourn in the heart of the old-city; drive to The House of MG opposite the Siddi Sayid’s mosque. Since crowd and chaos of the old-city can intimidate the most audacious traveller, it’s advisable to join the Heritage Walk that begins at this hotel. The breakfast walk offered between October and March (7:30am-9.30am; `350) and the night walk offered through the year (10pm-11pm; `250) is a good idea for those looking to indulge in the historic locales of Ahmedabad. The stunning edifice built by the Mughals in 1573 is entwined with carvings that depict the “tree of life”. It’s advisable to carry a scarf to cover your head, before you enter as a sign of respect. If adventure is on your mind, skip the Heritage Walk and discover the streets of the old-city or pols on your own to reminisce bygone Amdavad. Street-food hawkers, traditional shops, Gujarati businessmen running grocery or kirana shops are the common sightings. Walk to Lal Darwaja, a citadel built by Ahmed Shah I of the Gujarat Sultanate in the 15th century and soak in the chaos of the markets that contradict this monument of history. A few 100 metres ahead is the Jama Masjid, regarded as one of the most beautiful mosque’s of India. The Masjid’s courtyard is surrounded by corridors that border the complex with perfect symmetry. Its prayer hall with 260 columns is a tranquil space and almost feels cut off from the bustle of the city around. For those interested in learning about the textile industry that supported Ahmedabad in the 19th century, the Calico Museum of Textiles (calicomuseum.org) can be a visually informative experience. Photography isn’t permitted inside and tours are offered morning and afternoon inside the gallery. About ten minutes away from here is the Sabarmati Ashram (gandhiashramsabarmati.org), Mohandas 42 APRIL 2016
Located next to the Vastrapur Lake, besides the Alpha One mall (Ahmedabad’s prime shopping centre) is the Hyatt. Its strategic proximity to the business hubs of Ahmedabad makes it an ideal business hotel. The decor is plush with a touch of heritage detailing that continues in its 178 rooms and suites. The Hyatt’s leisure facilities include an outdoor swimming pool, a state-of-the-art spa and fitness centre. It also boasts of an eclectic mix of F&B namely Collage (all-day dining), Nonya (pan-Asian) and Chocolárt (patisserie and coffee shop). The hotel houses 1,068sqm of banquet space that hosts noted corporate events through the year. ahmedabad. hyatthotels.hyatt.com The House of MG The eponymous hotel — the House of Mangaldas Girdhardas (MG) is the ancestral house of the business tycoon that has been converted into a boutique hotel. This heritage property is located opposite the Siddi Saiyed mosque and is at a walking distance from the old-city. In existence since 1924, the House of MG caters more to foreigners and tourists than business travellers. The hotel features a noted Gujarati restaurant called Agashiye and an international dining outlet called The Green House. Leisure facilities include an indoor swimming pool, the Aum spa and a traditional store called Local Artisan. houseofmg.com Novotel The 184-room property is located at the Iscon Cross Road and about 30 minutes from the airport. Its decor is vibrant, contemporary and resonates with the Novotel properties around the world. The hotel’s rooms are categorised into Superior rooms and suites and features a fitness centre, outdoor swimming pool and a restaurant called the Square (all-day dining). It has 6 meeting rooms across 1,650sqm that can accommodate about 400 people, making it the preferred destination for large-scale corporate events. novotel.com Visit businesstraveller.com
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SpotlIght on‌ Amritsar
Eat pray Work Shawls, rice, temples and food — Amritsar is a soul-nourishing city to visit, observes Neha Gupta
44 APRIL 2016
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Left: Paddy field Visit businesstraveller.com
APRIL 2016 45
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I
ndia has classified Amritsar as a city in the state of Punjab, but its personality is the reflection of a township. Acres of arable land moves below me as the airplane descends into Amritsar. Buildings aren’t taller than six storeys; the only infrastructural development is two short bridges; the distance between the airport and the Golden Temple holds the key commercial and tourist hubs of Amritsar; and the drive between them is flanked by rice fields on both sides, for the most part. My taxi driver shares that he owns a few acres of paddies too with his family. Many locals, just like him, have continued farming on land inherited through generations. Rice is the basis of one of the oldest industries in Punjab, of which Amritsar is the key producer, especially basmati, a superior grade of rice. “Among all rice producing regions, the Amritsar belt yields the highest number — 5,23,000 tonne — and grade of basmati rice in India. This is because of the conducive environmental condition: it is warm during the day and cold at nights,” says Arvinder Pal Singh, member of the All India Rice Exporters Association, and Managing Director, Lal Qilla, a rice exporting company based in Amritsar. In fact, about five years ago when the neighbouring state of Haryana was being recognised for its hybrid seed, it was once again outshone in quality by Punjab. Of all the rice produced in the country, Haryana and Punjab have been vying with each other for first position in numbers and quality. India has 2.2 million hectares of basmati acreage, Amritsar has 1.3 million hectares. About 75 per cent of its produce is exported to Saudi Arabia, Iran, United Arab Emirates, Iraq and Kuwait — and the remaining has a big market in the South Indian states. Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) reports: “India is the leading exporter of the basmati rice to the global market. The country has exported 37,02,260.12 tonnes of basmati rice to the world worth `27,597.87 crore during the financial year 2014-15.” It has no real competitor for this grain type. As for nonbasmati rice, Thailand and India are in a close tie for the top position. No figures are available to tell us how much Amritsar contributes to India’s basmati rice export. But we get an inkling of the capacity from Lal Qilla’s average export figures that alone amount to 80,000 tonnes annually. Despite its reigning quality globally, the industry is in a little bit of a crunch. “Basmati is a major crop for our farmers,” Singh says. “Their only other option is
Spotlight on… Amritsar
non-basmati rice, of which there is already a surplus in India. And so the government is discouraging an increase in its production figures, making basmati their only lucrative option.” Unfortunately, the decline in crude prices is forcing farmers to go back to non-basmati even though it fetches them a lower premium. This is because the new marketdetermined basmati price hardly allows them to break even. There is little the export houses can do to help the farmers as their purchase of the rice crop is solely through auction. “Typically, no rice processing mill owns paddy fields,” Singh says. “The reason is that the kind of production we have per day won’t be fulfilled even with a thousand acres of land. Each hour (a mill) polishes anywhere from 20 to 50 tonnes of rice, and a requirement at that magnitude eliminates the option of contract farming as well.”
two attractions: the Golden Temple and food. Both attractions are enclosed within the old city gates, best accessible on foot. The lanes are narrow, leaving little room for any vehicle to pass without the fear of bumping into one or more of the many pedestrians. Footpaths, if that’s what they were meant to be, are crowded with dhabas, grocery stores and shops selling sundry items — traditional Indian garb and shawls. I’m surprised when Piara Lal Seth, General Secretary, Shawl Club (India) Amritsar and owner, Apollo Shawls tells me, “Amritsar’s contribution to India’s annual `1,000 crore turnover from shawl exports is `600 crore. The rest is from Ludhiana.” The industry is relatively new — its growth began just before the India-Pakistan Partition. Cloth from Amritsar used to be embroidered in Jammu & Kashmir. During Partition when Pakistani refugees
“Amritsar’s contribution to India’s annual `1,000 crore turnover from shawl exports is `600 crore. The rest is from Ludhiana.” Hopefully, the recently resumed trade with Iran who used to import 25 per cent of India’s production may come as a respite. Trade between the two countries was suspended for a year due to a difference in agreement. Then again, the industry has its roots dug deep enough such that last year, Singh says, Lal Qilla made a 10 per cent profit from basmati alone. All these factors could mean that demand by export houses could translate into higher auction prices. Ironically, though Amritsar is a key rice player on the international market, it consumes the least amount of rice. Punjab’s staple includes other grains such as wheat and varieties of dal, among vegetables and dairy products. Walk into any dhaba (street restaurant) and the menu will have items from chickpea masala (chola) to stuffed or buttered flat wheat bread (paratha) to chicken kebabs and fish tikka. During winters, spinach cooked in mustard oil is a delicacy, as is a dessert made from carrot. Food is a big deal in this part of the world. Sulakhan Singh, manager of the Golden Temple tells me that just the temple receives more or less 80,000 to 1,00,000 pilgrims a day; and the temple’s langar or communal kitchen feeds that many each day, as the food here is just as popular as any other commercial kitchen in the city. Singh speculates that 85 per cent of these visitors are not locals. Ask any of them their agenda to visit the city and they will echo 46 APRIL 2016
took shelter in Amritsar, they worked as skilled labourers, spreading their knowledge to locals. Today, the city has 600 looms producing a total of 90,000 shawls daily. These are expensive items. On the consumer market, a semi-woollen stole can fetch `3,500 and a shawl can sell for `5,000. Costs for pure wool shawls are nearly double. When touring Seth’s factory, his grandson, Amit Seth tells me that many fashion brands outsource their production to Amritsar for stoles. This is done indirectly through trading houses. “Each fashion house has strict guidelines, most of which aren’t practical. For example, child labour is inevitable in India, especially in a small city like Amritsar. If a tea-stall owner’s son helps him out after school by serving us tea, the fashion house will raise an alarm accusing us of child labour. It doesn’t make sense.” He names a few brands, none of which I’m allowed to divulge. However, logos on shawls in the factory telltale whom they’re for. The industry isn’t entirely dependent on exports as domestic sales to Jammu & Kashmir amongst other Indian states from Amritsar and Ludhiana, Seth estimates, are close to `2,000 crore. And because of shawls, Omika Mehra Kohli, Chief Operating Officer, RMBAY says there is a thriving ancillary market for yarn. “No doubt Amritsar’s shawls have boosted our sales in the domestic market. Our local yarn sales are primarily to shawl manufacturers, who weave shawls of different Visit businesstraveller.com
WhERE to StAY Country Inn & Suites An upper midscale brand by Carlson Resider, it is situated within proximity to Amritsar’s commercial hub. The 48 rooms and suites have wifi connectivity, tea/ coffee maker, iron and ironing board and 24-hour room service. For meetings, there are four rooms with a capacity for 200, 50, 30, and 25. All meeting rooms and banquets have an internet connection, audiovisual equipment and other services on request. It has a multi-cuisine restaurant Spice, a pub Big Shot, and a 24-hour coffee shop Mosaic. countryinns.com Hyatt Amritsar
Above: Yarn being spun into shawls at the factory of Apollo Shawls Visit businesstraveller.com
qualities, thereby obtaining a varied product range.” Further, both these industries, rice and shawls, have nudged Amritsar towards becoming a MICE city. Hotels want to focus on MICE segments because “why would anyone want to stay in Amritsar for more than a night,” says Vivek Sharma, General Manager, Hyatt Amritsar. “For leisure, people visit the Golden Temple, Wagah border, which is 25km from here, and eat two local meals before they leave. You don’t need more than 24-hours for this.” As for MICE groups, they have the resources to accommodate 200 people, and have generated `6 crore from MICE alone last year. “We receive many delegates because of the rice and textile industry here,” Sharma adds as he guides me to their business centre that is equipped with printer and computer sets for free use, and two boardrooms for six and ten people. “City excursion, specialist MICE manager, and banquet facilities are made available to delegates.” It’s never just any other visit — not to Amritsar. An experience with its spiritual side, a walk through its hardworking establishments, and a shameless tryst with food in all its forms — Amritsar emerges as the trinity of taste, work and faith. n
A 5-star deluxe property, while it receives many leisure travellers, it hopes to please the corporate guest too. Their event planning team has a host of teambuilding activities available for the MICE segment, such as yoga by the pool, power breakfast, and day excursions. A business centre has two individual rooms with a computer and printer each that can be accessed at any time during the stay. Larger meeting rooms for six and ten people can be booked in advanced, as can the 1,000 sqm banquet rooms. Collage and Thaichi are the two restaurants on the property along with The Pastry Shop and The Lounge Bar. amritsar. hyatthotels.hyatt.com Best Western Merrion An American international chain, it is a budget hotel and one of the 13 properties in India. They have three room and suite categories: Deluxe room, Executive suite, and Royal suite. Each of them is equipped with wifi, minibar, LCD TV, and a tea/coffee maker. Other services available to guests include 24-hour in-room dining, business centre, banquets facility, gym, and swimming pool. bestwesternmerrion.in
APRIL 2016 47
SpOTlIGHT ON… Amritsar
Amritsar’s Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport has direct flights to and from Dubai, Mumbai and New Delhi.
GETTING AROUND Ola Cabs are available in the city, but they aren’t the best bet. It is safest to book a private taxi if you need to travel through the day.
WHERE TO EAT Giani Tea Stall It’s a humble set-up — a hole in the wall, but popular nonetheless. Locals end their morning walks at this tea shop with a nice hot cuppa and a samosa or butter and toast. Be prepared for butter lathered on the crispy toast as in Amritsar no amount of accompanying cream is ever enough. Open daily 7am to 11pm; tel: +91 183 2550123; Opposite Jallianwala Bagh, Near Golden Temple, Town Hall. Chawlas 2 They have been around forever and pride themselves in their namesake chicken gravy. It’s a recipe that none have been able to recreate to perfection. The helpings are huge, so if you’re three big eaters, one gravy dish and a starter should be enough. Maybe avoid the black dal — tasty, but only those who are inured to copious of amounts of cream daily can stomach it. Open daily 11am to 11pm; tel: +91 183 2226341; 14A, Lawrence Road.
48 APRIL 2016
Surjit Food Plaza Visit this place for their tandoori chicken. Service is quick. Order a butter or garlic naan to go with the chicken, but that’s only if you’re craving carbs. Open daily 11am to 11pm; tel: +91 183 3294334; Shop 4, Nehru Shopping Complex, Lawrence Road, White Avenue. Kulcha Land This is where you visit for authentic chola and kulcha. Visitors phone a day in advance to get plates of these packed to take home. Don’t expect a posh restaurant — it is literally a set of tables and chairs under a tall tree. Open daily 9am to 5pm; tel: +91 183 5050552; Opposite M.K Hotel, District Shopping Centre, Ranjit Avenue.
WHERE TO SHOp Raunak Punjabi Jutti for juttis or traditional shoes. They’re embellished with stones, embroidery and mirror on bright colours or tanned leather. n No. 17, Outside Hall Gate; raunakstore.com Apollo Shawls for stoles and shawls. You’re made to sit on a mattress on which different colours and embroideries are unfolded around you. n No. 12, Shastri Market; appolloshawls.com Ram Lubhaya and Sons for aam papad. These are sticky sheets of flavoured jelly made from various fruits. You buy them by the kilo. Next to him sits a man who sells masalas to mix in boiled chickpeas so you can take Amritsar’s taste back with you. Visit businesstraveller.com
n Shop No A-1, Arya Samaj Mandir Building, Lawrence Road; tel: +91 183 2425467
coins in addition to a library. Open daily 12am to 6pm and 10pm to 12am. goldentempleamritsar.org
WHAT TO SEE Golden Temple Everybody, irrespective of cast, creed or race is welcome here. The temple was established in 1570, on a land site purchased for the purpose of excavating a holy tank. It is from here that the township of Amritsar originated. The dome of the temple that is built in the middle of the holy tank, accessible by a bridge, is moulded from real gold, as are the carvings within. The marble walls have detailed floral etches in red, blue and green. Inside is the Guru Granth Sahib — the holy book of the Sikhs. Every day the book is opened to an unspecified page from where a “life lesson” is read. The reverence for the Golden Temple is such that each day it receives donations close to `20,00,000. This money is used towards the maintenance of accommodation on the premises for the poor, cleanliness drives in and around the area, and for the langar. Langar is the free communal kitchen where volunteers cook meals for thousands each day. You don’t have to be less-fortunate to enjoy this food. Everybody is welcome to eat. The temple is open to visitors round the clock. There is also a Central Sikh Museum that holds everything that is related to Sikhism: paintings, pencil sketches, musical instruments, ancient manuscripts and Visit businesstraveller.com
Jallianwala Bagh On April 13, 1919, men, women and children gathered at the Jallianwala Bagh to peacefully celebrate Baisakhi, a Sikh festival. At the time, the then British brigadier in charge had sanctioned orders against public assemblies. Raged at the news of the religious gathering, his soldiers fired at the civilians, killing 379 innocent people including women and children. Bullet marks on the walls are visible to date. The government has built a memorial here in 1951. Small snippets of information on the event are displayed at three different areas in the park. Entry is free; open daily 6:30am to 7:30pm; Golden Temple Road. Wagah Border About 28km from Amritsar, is the Wagah Border between India and Pakistan. Every evening at 5pm a procession takes place where Indian soldiers and Pakistani soldiers march in a short parade that ends in a flag lowering festival. Thousands gather on each side of the gate to cheer their nation. This is the only official opening between the two countries through which trade practices take place. It is best to request your hotel or travel agent two weeks in advance to organise tickets to the parade. APRIL 2016 49
LOYALTY Arunima Kumar rounds up airline and hotel scheme news and promotions
Lufthansa opens lounges within Dubai International Concourse D
Lufthansa has opened its Business class and Senator lounges at Dubai International’s new Concourse D. The Business class lounge is open to Lufthansa, Swiss and Star Alliance passengers travelling on Business class, and frequent traveller cardholders within the Miles and More loyalty programme. The Senator lounge can be used by First class passengers and by those holding Senator, HON Circle or Star Alliance Gold status. lufthansa.com, dubaiairports.ae
SpiceJet launches SpiceClub
The Indian budget airline SpiceJet has launched a new membership product SpiceClub, a privileges prepaid card. The cardholder can purchase in-flight meals, merchandise, add-on services and earn usable credits with every recharge made. This card can be purchased for `399. Introductory perks of the card include two free vouchers worth `399 each for domestic flights, free air ticket on the cardholder’s birthday and 50 per cent off on domestic flights for two passengers on their marriage anniversary, amongst other offers. spicejet.com
The Park Hotels partners with Starwood Preferred Guest loyalty programme
Marriott Rewards announces hotel category changes
Marriott International has announced this year’s hotel category changes for its loyalty programme. More hotels have been moved up a category (now more points will be required to redeem stays at these properties) than moved down. Marriott Rewards has also made changes to its cash plus points option. For bookings, members will be able to mix cash and points within a night’s stay. A spokesperson for Marriott Rewards comments, ”While it is correct that more properties are moving up than moving down, the reality is that 82 per cent of our 4,300 hotels worldwide are staying where they are”. To know about the full list of properties moving up and down visit marriott.com 50 APRIL 2016
The Park Hotels collaborates with Starwood Preferred Guest loyalty programme. The members of the Starwood Preferred Guest loyalty programme can avail benefits at five hotel locations of The Park, namely — Kolkata, New Delhi, Hyderabad, Chennai and Bangalore. The Design Hotels (that owns The Park Hotels) is the 11th brand to join forces with the SPG loyalty programme. “We are delighted with this partnership. The Park Hotels is known for its innovation and creativity and we offer a hospitality experience sprinkled with the unusual and the memorable. We look forward to offer SPG members our “Anything But Ordinary” experiences. The Park Hotels offers a valuable portfolio of unique hotels and through our relationship with Design Hotels and SPG we will strengthen our global presence,” says Vijay Dewan, managing director, Apeejay Surrendra Park Hotels Ltd. The 21 million active members of the SPG loyalty programme can now redeem benefits with The Park Hotels since March 23. theparkhotels.com Visit businesstraveller.com
RocketMiles offering 3,000 Oasis miles
Hotel reservation website RocketMiles has partnered with Kuwait Airlines and is offering 3,000 bonus Oasis miles to its members. These 3,000 bonus miles will be additional to the 500-1,000 points earned per night for bookings made using the service. The offer is valid only on the first reservation made on the website and bookings must be made by May 31. Some of the other airlines that have collaborated with RocketMiles include Singapore Airlines, British Airways, Jet Airways and Etihad Airways. rocketmiles.com
IHG Rewards Club extends the 10,000 bonus offer InterContinental Hotels Group members can now earn 10,000 bonus points per stay at their Hong Kong or Macao properties. The booking must be made by June 30 and the offer is valid for stays until December 31. The minimum stay must be of two nights. The offer can be availed at all hotels operated by IHG in Hong Kong and Macau. ihg.com
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Hilton Hhonors offers double points or double miles promotions
Hilton Hhonors’ members can opt for “Points & Points” or “Points & Miles” offer. Members can earn double base Hilton Hhonors points on every stay under the “Points & Points” offer. Under the “Points & Miles” offer, members can earn double base airline miles by flying with any of the 60 Hilton airline partners, on every stay. Once the offer is selected, it can’t be changed. The offer is valid until April 30. hhonors3.hilton.com
Le Club AccorHotels launches promotions for stays in Middle East and Egypt
Le Club AccorHotels’ members have a chance to earn up to 500 bonus points for stays in the Middle East and Egypt. They can earn 300 bonus points on weekday stays and 500 bonus points on weekend stays. To be eligible, the stay must be a minimum of a night and the offer is not applicable for hotel partners of Le Club AccorHotels. The promotion is valid until April 30. accorhotels.com APRIL 2016 51
INDIA
52 APRIL 2016
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TIME OUT, TECH & TREATS 54 NEWS 56 WHAT’S ON 58 THE BUDA PEST ERA 62 PARADISE FOUND 66 RIDE THE WAVE 70 UNCOMMON SCENTS 75 BUY & FLY 76 SPLURGE FOR SPLENDOUR 80 TEA TALES
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APRIL 2016 53
BUSINESS TRAVELLER LIFESTYLE News
watch
Omega launches the world’s first Master Chronometer The luxury Swiss watch brand Omega launched Globemaster, the world’s first Master Chronometer. The Globemaster passed eight meticulous tests of Swiss Federal Institute of Metrology (METAS) to become the premier Master Chronometer. The Globemaster is a part of Omega’s Constellation model. This 39mm timepiece comes in 18k Sedan gold, 18k yellow gold, stainless steel editions. The watch bears a pie pan dial which resembles Omega’s Constellation model of 1952. The Globemaster is 10 bar (100 metres/330 feet) water resistant and magnetic field resistant to 15,000 gauss. The Master Chronometer comes in 11 models. Omega hosted “Evening of Mastery” to celebrate the success and launch of this iconic timepiece. omegawatches.com automobile
jewellery
patnership
Swarovski launches spring/ summer 2017 innovations Luxury crystal brand Swarovski introduced the 2017 Spring/Summer innovations. The theme of the collection is “Balance of Nature” and three new colour palettes are included. Four categories, representing symbols of life, are part of the theme — Earth (romantic), Air (classic), Water (progressive) and Fire (glamour). Earth category incorporates romantic designs in its new colour — graphite. Air includes the Twisted Fancy Stone and Pave Dragonfly Pendant. For Water, Swarovski teamed up with FrenchAmerican explorer, filmmaker and diver, Céline Cousteau and introduced the Raindrop Pendant amongst other pieces inspired by depths of the ocean. New colour, yellow opal found place in the Fire category of the collection. swarovski.com
One&Only and Shivan & Narresh team up Luxury group of resorts One&Only and India’s leading swimwear brand Shivan & Narresh have teamed up. Under this partnership, customers spending more than `30,000/US$450 at Shivan & Narresh Boutiques or E-boutique until April 7, will get a default entry into the draw. The winner will be announced at the end of the offer period and would have an option to avail a 2-night/3-day stay for two at One&Only Palmilla, Los Cabos, Mexico. The Holiday period is between April 2016 and March 2017. Shivan & Narresh offers 100 per cent handcrafted stitch-free beachwear and resort wear. shivanandnarresh.com oneandonlyresorts.com
BMW launches ALPINA B7 Bi-Turbo
BMW launched the all new ALPINA B7 Bi-Turbo with new generation 4.4-litre V8 Bi-Turbo engine. This luxurious sports car can go from 0km/hour to 100 km/hour in 3.7 seconds. Highend Nappa leather, comfort seats, a leather-covered instrument panel, ceramic applications on selected control elements and soft close doors, full-colour head-up display make up the interior of the new model. The car comes with a range of high standard equipment like the latest BMW navigation, communication and infotainment system. bmw.com 54 APRIL 2016
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restuarant
alcohol
Dine six metres underwater at the Sea
Situated at Baa Atoll UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve, Anantara Kihavah Villas Maldives, houses one of the few underwater restaurants, Sea. Sea has been voted as the World’s Best Underwater Hotel Restaurant by World Travel Awards 2015. At Sea, one can enjoy lunch and dinner as well as breakfast on request with a 360-degree view of the Indian Ocean. The restaurant also prides itself to be the world’s only underwater wine cellar, with 360 labels in its collection. General Manager, Jean-Marc Ma-Poon, says,“We’re very honoured and proud to have been acknowledged by World Travel Awards as the World’s Best Underwater Hotel Restaurant. Our underwater dining adventure is right in the heart of Baa Atoll and the only one in the world on the edge of a natural reef. With more than 100 species of marine life swimming around, no matter what time of day it is, guests can be sure of great views, with delicious cuisine and an enviable wine selection as well!”Sea also received esteemed three star accolade from World of Fine Wine magazine. kihavah-maldives.anantara.com
bespoke
Rolls-Royce presented The 13 Hotel first of 30 Bespoke Phantoms
Celebrated British car-maker RollsRoyce handed over the first of 30 highly bespoke and extended wheelbase RollsRoyce Phantoms to The 13 Hotel, Macau. The Phantoms are hand-crafted for The 13 Hotel and were handed over to Stephen Hung, Joint Chairman of Louis Visit businesstraveller.com
XIII Holdings, at the 2016 Geneva International Motor Show. Torsten Müller-Ötvös, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Chief Executive Officer says, “These remarkable examples of contemporary Rolls-Royce design reaffirm our position as the only marque capable of realising deeply personal commissions. Once delivered, these exceptional motor cars will stand with The 13 Hotel as landmark sights in Macau.” The 30 Rolls-Royce Phantoms are coated in ‘Stephen Red’ paint along with golden touches of twin coachline. The back seats are equipped with a refrigerator while the door panniers are designed to carry tissue box. The seats are pipped with Arctic White with “RR” logos in gold, match perfectly with black leather interior. To resemble the entrance hall of The 13, the rear seats are incorporated in a chequered pattern. RollsRoyce will deliver all 30 Bespoke Phantoms to The 13 before its opening in late summer 2016. rolls-roycemotorcars.com
Pernod Ricard India opens Luxe Boutique at Mumbai International Airport Leading global wine and spirits company, Pernod Ricard India launched its first Luxe Boutique at Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport, T-2 departures. The Luxe Boutique, is the first-of-its-kind exclusive wine and spirits store having a wide range of most exceptional and rare collection of wines and spirits. The exquisite range includes, Royal Salute 62 Gun Salute, Chivas Regal 25 Year Old, Ballantine’s 30 Year Old, The Glenlivet 25 Year Old, Ballantine’s 17 Year Old, Royal Salute 38 Year Old, Absolut Elyx, G.H. Mumm Champagne & Brancott. The boutique also houses rare whiskies like Chivas Regal Icon. Priced at (`2,35,235) (US$3,500), two out of the limited editions are available at the Luxe Boutique. Kartik Mohindra, Business Head — International Brands at Pernod Ricard India says,“We are proud to present our first exclusive luxury retailing experience — the Luxe Boutique store here in India. Indian consumers are increasingly adopting luxury wines and spirits and this unique boutique will provide an exclusive yet intimate brand experience across our entire portfolio.” pernod-ricard-india.com
APRIL 2016 55
WHAT’S ON April
ASIA-PACIFIC
also comprises a variety of activities such as folk dance, beating of drums and fireworks taking place at temples in the area but concludes at Vadakkunnathan Temple. thrissurpooramfestival.com
Manila, Philippines April 7-9
Madrid Fusion Manila Food enthusiasts can head to Manila to experience Spain’s only Asian edition of Madrid Fusion taking place at the SMX Convention Centre, Pasay City, Manila, Philippines. The theme this year is “The Manila Galleon: East Meets West”. The two major attractions of the event are the International Gastronomy Congress and the Trade Exhibition. The Gastronomy Congress will feature cooking demonstrations and food tasting while the Trade Exhibition will emphasise on gourmet products, ingredients, new technologies and services from round the world. madridfusionmanila.com Shanghai, China April 15-17
ForMula 1 Pirelli Chinese Grand Prix Lewis Hamilton finished first last year at the Shanghai International Circuit and will speed again to get his hands on the title at the
Chinese Grand Prix. The race track is shaped like Chinese character “Shang” and has sharp turns. The spectacular circuit has a length of 5.4 km and promises to deliver a thrilling race. The main grandstand can accommodate 29,000 spectators and offers almost 80 per cent view of the circuit. formula1.com Thrissur, India April 17
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Thrissur PooraM elePhanT FesTival This is one of the most prominent temple festivals of India. The festival is celebrated in the Indian state of Kerala and the elephant procession is the highlight of the event. Two teams of fifteen elephants each participate in the festival and the animals are decorated with golden headdresses, decorative bells, ornaments, palm leaves, peacock feathers and paintings. The festival
Sydney, Australia April18-May 15
Boracay, Philippines April 21-23
Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh, India April 22May 21
The sydney CoMedy FesTival Tickle your funny bone this summer at the Sydney Comedy Festival, Sydney’s biggest event in this category. More than 100 local and international comedians participate in the Festival that starts with a gala at the famous Sydney Opera House and Cracker Night at The Enmore Theatre. The festival welcomes more than 1,20,000 visitors from round the world. sydneycomedyfest.com.au BoraCay inTernaTional draGon BoaT FesTival Water sports lovers, if you are flying to Philippines this April, then Boracay Island is the place to be. The island is hosting its 10th Dragon Boat Festival, an event much enjoyed by water sports fanatics. The main feature of the event is the dragon boat race competition including men’s, women’s, mixed and masters (above 40) categories. dragonboat.ph KuMBh Mela Kumbh Mela is one of the largest religious gatherings of the world. The Mela is held every third year by rotation at one of the four destinations — Haridwar, Allahabad, Nashik and Ujjain, where millions of Hindus gather and bathe in the sacred Ganges. The Ardh (Half) Kumbh is held at Haridwar and Allahabad every sixth year. This year’s Kumbh Mela will be at Ujjain. Ash-rubbed sages, priests, and thousands of pilgrims from across the world, come here to experience the divine vibe of the humungous gathering. The major attraction of the Mela is the Shahi Snan (Royal Bath) in the river Shipra. According to Hinduism, it is believed that those who take the Shahi Snan or holy dip in the river during the Kumbh, have their sins washed off by the flowing holy river. Even sins from their previous births are erased, ridding them of the birth cycle. mahakumbhyatra.com Visit businesstraveller.com
AMERICAS Scottsdale, Arizona, USA April 16-17
New Orleans, Louisiana, USA, April 22May 1
Blue Moon souThwesT FesTival oF Beers If live music, around 200 speciality beers, food and wine catch your fancy then visit Blue Moon Southwest Festival of Beers this April. Interact with brewers, distributors and restaurant owners to get an insight of the beer and culinary world. Spread over five acres, local and international beer brands such as Blue Moon, Alaskan Brewing Company and Schรถfferhofer Hefeweizen will be there to quench your thirst. scottsdalefest. org/2016-southwest-festival-of-beers
Lisbon, Portugal April 7-17
lisBon Fish and Flavours 2016 Seafood aficionados, visit Lisbon to enjoy this seafood festival. The activities include live cooking demonstrations by leading Portuguese and European chefs, cooking classes, gourmet market with over 500 products to taste and buy from, wine pairing and food tastings. The event also includes coffee bar lounge and lounging area to sip coffee, relax and have a conversation. peixemlisboa.com
new orleans Jazz & heriTaGe FesTival Edinburgh, Scotland April 30
The New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival is a music and culture event attended by thousands of musicians, cooks and craftsmen. It is one of the leading music festivals in the world that welcomes around 4,00,000 visitors each year. Along with jazz (modern and contemporary), blues, R&B, gospel, cajun, zydeco, Afro-Caribbean, folk, rock, rap, country, bluegrass can be enjoyed at the festival. Food, craft and culture are important elements of the festival. Congo Square African Marketplace at the venue exhibits works of local, national, and international artists. The food heritage and Cajun Cabin Stages offer food demonstration and variety of delicacies by local chefs and cooks. nojazzfest.com California, USA April 23
EUROPE
earTh day Food and wine FesTival Celebrate Earth Day with Food and Wine Festival at Castro Cellars, California. This low-key event includes best of food and wine pairing and aims at generating zero waste. The food is served by local chefs on recyclable and compostable plates, bowls, forks, and spoons. The event includes brunches, wine tasting and workshops. earthdayfoodandwine.com
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BelTane Fire FesTival Welcome summer in Edinburgh with the Beltane Fire Festival. A procession is carried out from National Monument and is led by the May Queen and Green Man. The parade ends with the lighting of a huge bonfire. Music, dance, food and drinks go on the entire night. Summer is coming folks! beltane.org
AFRICA AND THE MIDDLE EAST Dubai April 25-28
araBian Travel MarKeT Held at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre (DICEC), this four-day event provides an opportunity to travel professionals to connect and commence business with over 2,800 exhibitors. The exhibitors include leading hotel groups, travel and tourism companies and airlines. arabiantravelmarket.com
Cape Town, South Africa April 30May 2
souTh aFriCan Cheese FesTival This Cheese Festival will complete 15 years in 2016. The festival showcases exotic, handmade boutique cheeses as well as wellknown popular cheeses. Enjoy cheese tasting along with fine wines. The three-day event is attended by celebrity chefs and welcomes around 30,000 cheese lovers. Note that the
tickets are available on Computicket outlet, Shoprite or Checkers store and no tickets will be sold at the gates. cheesefestival.co.za APRIL 2016 57
ExPloring Budapest
The Buda Pest Era Akanksha Maker discovers the architectural marvels of the Hungarian capital
58 APRIL 2016
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Above: Panoramic view of Buda and Pest from the Chain Bridge Visit businesstraveller.com
or the Széchenyi lánchíd, the first solid link across the river. The bridge, a classicist-style marvel, with its two walking pathways sandwiching a car-way, is an ideal place to catch some of the most idyllic views of the city, especially at dawn or dusk. The grand lion sculptures at the bridge’s abutments resemble the bronze statuettes of London’s Trafalgar Square and appear tongue-less when seen from below. While
fell on the platform of this grand station. Chances are, if you’re visiting Budapest, it is probably along with other east European destinations, perhaps Prague or Vienna. Being an ardent aficionado of Gothic architecture and the waters, my visit to this “Paris of the east” was long overdue. As my taxi took me to my hotel, passing antique residential buildings that almost felt like they were out of a medieval novel, I wondered what the rest of the city had in store for me. It was interesting to learn that the Hungarian capital is divided into two parts, Buda on the west bank and Pest on the east bank of the Danube river, christening it Budapest. A number of bridges connect the two, but the most striking one is the Chain Bridge
the spectacular Hungarian Parliament Building can be seen on the Pest side, the Buda Castle draws attention from the other side. It’s definitely hard to decide where to focus, but I turned towards Pest, where I keenly observed the Hungarian Parliament. This Gothic revival-style structure, with its daunting conical towers is the third largest legislative house in the world. Guided tours are recommended for those looking to admire the edifice more intimately and enter the building to see its main staircase, Hungarian coronation jewels and halls. Even though Pest doesn’t boast of a history as rich as Buda and its hills, the Heroes’ Square (Hősök tere) is still considered an icon of the city’s antiquity. The quadrangular area houses a statue complex featuring APRIL 2016 59
The house of Pixels
M
y house in Budapest My, my hidden treasure chest Golden grand piano My beautiful Castillo” George Ezra’s song “Budapest” played on my iPod on loop, as I arrived from Wien Westbahnhof to Budapest Keleti railway station. It remained on my mind, as the shadows of the ceiling-high windows
Exploring Budapest
60 APRIL 2016
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Clockwise from top left: Fisherman’s Bastion; Little Princess Statue; Closer view of the Hungarian Parliament; Budapest Keleti railway station; Front facade of the Fisherman’s Bastion; Streets of Budapest Visit businesstraveller.com
the Seven Chieftains of the Magyars (leaders of the seven tribes of 895AD Hungary) and is surrounded by the Museum of Fine Arts and Palace of Art. Walking distance from the Heroes’ Square is the Széchenyi thermal bath, the most recognisable symbol of Budapest’s bath culture. This neobaroque-style palace was built in 1913 for providing aqua therapies in this “city of baths”. Apart from Széchenyi, a number of natural thermal baths can be found in Budapest, a few even influenced by the Turkish bath heritage, considering Hungary was part of the Ottoman Empire during the 17th century. My keen interest in history took me back to the other side of the Chain Bridge, leading to Adam Clarks Square and the Zero Kilometre Stone — the point where distances are measured from in Budapest.
As the sun sets on Buda and Pest, the iconic landmarks of the city light up and reflect their golden hues on the Danube. Budapest by night is a resplendent beauty that enamours effortlessly. The contradictions of the Hungarian capital arise as a sense of revelry fills the air on the historic streets. Head to Pest in the after-hours to venture into the city’s bustling night life. Expect raging ruin-pubs, open air dance-floors and even a few speakeasies. For those looking for something rested, quiet walks on the river’s promenade in Pest might be a good way to soak up the city’s dramatic nightfall. While strolling, it’s ordinary to stumble upon bronze statues and intricately carved water-tanks; art isn’t hard to find in Budapest. A personal favourite is the Little Princess (Kiskirálylány) statue, a 50cm of a little girl sitting on the railings of the promenade. The
The Castle Hill Funicular, a 19th century rail line that has been converted into a tourist attraction begins here. This takes you to the Buda Castle, the city’s medieval/baroque-style palace atop the Várhegy (Castle Hill). It’s best to opt for a walking tour (budacastlebudapest.com, `2,227 for an adult ticket) that starts at this point, as the rest of the wonders on the hill are quite elusive. The walk will also take you to the Fisherman’s Bastion — an almost Disney-esque, neo-Gothic and neo-Romanesque-style cathedral and the RomanCatholic Mathais Church — both stunning examples of Budapest’s architectural excellence. The postcard riverscape from these Castle Hill locations is one for keeps.
ships anchored at the docks of the river have been converted into restaurants and bars, most priding themselves with exquisite seafood and stunning views, of course. It wasn’t difficult to find boats at the docks of the promenade that offered hourly cruises on the river – most of these don’t require previous bookings and can be clubbed with dinner or drinks, as per preferences. I hopped on one that didn’t offer any frills, and watched the sky dramatically play with the colour palette as the sun set behind the Buda Castle in a dream-like pace. George Ezra’s “Budapest” played on the ship’s radio, as the grandeur of Buda and Pest serenaded me one last time. n APRIL 2016 61
ESCAPE TO‌ Seychelles
Paradise found
istock
Michelle Harbi kicks back Creole-style on the spectacular island of MahĂŠ
62 APRIL 2016
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M
ornings are my favourite time on Mahé. Rising early, I make my way to and snuggle down on the daybed on our hilltop terrace with a cup of tea, watching as the ascending sun turns the sky ever bluer and the forest ever greener, the ocean below glistening under its rays. The previous night had seen rain, and so a delicate rainbow threads through what remains of the clouds as the island’s birds conduct their exotic early morning conversation. Finishing my cuppa, I pad down the hill to Petite Anse beach – a perfect horseshoe of white sand lapped by water the colour of peppermint. Other than a hotel worker starting to pull the covers off the sunbeds, and a man further out to sea in a fishing boat, I’m alone. I wade into the water – warm even at this time – and swim slow strokes, working up a little appetite for the breakfast buffet ahead. When writing about far-flung beach destinations, it’s all too easy to lapse into the well-worn phrases of travel prose – crystal-clear waters, powderwhite sands, swaying palms – but, then, few places embody the paradise island idyll quite as effortlessly as Seychelles. Or, rather, paradise islands, the country comprising 115 of them, clustered about 1,600km east of mainland Africa in the vast Indian Ocean. The largest, home to the international airport and most of the former French and British colony’s population, is Mahé. While island-hopping is easy, we’re not here for long so are content to stay put and enjoy the less than laborious task of exploring a land mass only 28km by 8km in size. Our first base is the Four Seasons, open since 2009 on a previously unoccupied site on the island’s rugged south-west coast. Its 67 villas and suites are spread across the granite hillside, offering garden or ocean views as spectacular as I’ve seen anywhere. Private and expansive, the villas have elegant décor, sizeable infinity pools and huge verandahs. One of your toughest decisions here will be where to lie for the day – on the sun deck, the shaded bed under the pavilion, or the cosy circular daybed? Or will you instead summon a golf buggy to whizz you down to the beach? Most of the time, we opt for the last option, because Petite Anse really is so pretty and peaceful, and the water so calm. Days are very easily spent swimming and reading, but there are plenty of activities, from low exertion (coconut pétanque, watching the native giant tortoises do even less than you) to medium effort (kayaking, beach volleyball) to high energy. Mahé’s mountainous interior is popular with hikers, so late one afternoon we take the short but steep ascent up a Pictured: two-bedroom Hilltop ocean View suite, Four seasons Visit businesstraveller.com
APRIL 2016 63
ESCAPE TO… Seychelles
Clockwise from left: Avani shisha lounge, Avani lobby, Tortoise
64 APRIL 2016
peak just outside the resort for a meditation session. Halfway up, the 30-degree celsius heat sapping my energy, I doubt my sanity, but when the vista at the top reveals itself, I feel completely exhilarated. As I run through my breathing exercises, the crisp air cooling my skin, the world at large feels very far away. Next morning, my muscles aching more than they should, I reward myself with a massage at the hilltop spa before heading down to the beach to explore the island’s underwater world. Seychelles’ abundant marine life offers great opportunities for snorkelling and diving. In the late 1990s, the country’s coral was damaged by the El Nino weather phenomenon, which is why Four Seasons has partnered with marine conservation company Wise Oceans (wiseoceans.com) to restore 10,000 sqm of limestone reef in the bay, collecting and nurturing broken fragments so it can transplant them back. Marine educator Georgina Beresford takes me on a guided snorkel out towards the coral nursery at the side of the bay. On the way, we spot a pair of bulging blue and yellow Indian redfin butterflyfish flitting through the waters – often seen in twos as they mate for life – together with vibrant striped surgeonfish. After all this exertion, I tuck into my evening meals with gusto. Fine dining is available in Zez, which also puts on themed cuisine nights – we enjoy a surf and turf meal of succulent shrimp, red snapper and steak – while Kannel serves Asian dishes alongside local specialities such as Creole curry. It’s not long before the staff work out our digestif of choice – deliciously dark Takamaka Bay rum (“Spirit of the Seychelles”) – suggesting it before we’ve even taken a seat in the bar. That’s indicative of the intuitive
service delivered here. Food and drink, like many things, can be expensive in Seychelles, as so much needs to be imported. Still, there is good value to be found on the island, and for the second part of our trip we head further up the coast for a different kind of resort experience. In February 2015, Asia’s Minor Hotel Group opened its first Seychelles property under its fourstar Avani brand. Formerly a Le Méridien hotel, the fully revamped 124-room Avani Seychelles Barbarons is on Barbarons beach, a wide sweep of sand lined with lush greenery. The ocean is more powerful here and the smell of it hits you as soon as you walk into the airy open-plan lobby, the water visible straight ahead. The property’s low-rise buildings are set in attractive tropical gardens, in the middle of which sits a deep-blue 25-metre pool, all backed by the grandeur of the mountains. Dotted around are shaded loungers and hammocks for lazy days in the sunshine, and pool service is provided. Starting from 33 sqm, rooms are fresh and modern and come with robes, fridges and free wifi – book a first-floor Ocean View one to watch the waves from your balcony. The hotel has two restaurants – Elements, where we have breakfast facing the beach, and the excellent Tamarind, which serves fragrant pan-Asian dishes for lunch and dinner. There’s also a bar, a shisha lounge, and a spa with skilled therapists. Throughout, the staff are warm and helpful. The Avani is well placed for exploring, being located just next to La Misere, one of a handful of winding roads that cross the island, taking you east to the capital, Victoria. You can drive around Mahé, hopping out at its numerous beaches (all public in Seychelles), in about two and a half hours. For a more local experience, try the bus network, which is comprehensive, if not hugely frequent. One afternoon, we head to Victoria – while fairly unremarkable, it has a thriving market and a lively lunch spot, the Pirate Arms. More salubrious is nearby Eden Island, a luxury residential marina development built on reclaimed land 200 metres off the coast, linked to the mainland by bridge. Launched in 2005, it’s home to the 87-room Eden Bleu hotel, which opened in 2014, as well as shops, bars and restaurants – such as Jolly Bravo, which serves plentiful, well-priced fare. On our last night, we head for the chic Delplace restaurant in Port Glaud, a short drive from the Avani, where we enjoy fantastic fish overlooking the water – and one last drop of Takamaka Bay. ■ ■ Visit fourseasons.com/seychelles; avanihotels.com/seychelles-barbarons Visit businesstraveller.com
Time ouT... Abu Dhabi
Ride the
wave
Abu Dhabi may be in the desert, but the water is where the action is. Hallie Campbell rounds up ten of the emirate’s top aquatic adventures
66 APRIL 2016
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SNORKELLING SAFARI The Arabian Gulf has a rainbow assortment of more than 700 species of fish, many of which live among the emirate’s coral reefs. Conditions are ideal for snorkelling thanks to the water temperature (an average 25ºC throughout the year), excellent visibility – up to nine metres – and lack of strong currents. The endangered hawksbill turtle can be found along with popular reef species such as hammour, sailfish, eels, seahorses, starfish and colourful sea anemones. The best way to explore is by boat. Snorkelling tours start from Dhs 265/`4,909 per person, with all equipment included. n Desert Islands Watersports Centre, Sir Bani Yas Island; divemahara.com
DEEP-SEA FISHING Indulge your inner Hemingway and grab a rod. The waters off Abu Dhabi are famous for such sport fish as barracuda, yellow snapper, grouper and kingfish. Spend an afternoon enjoying the challenge of baiting and catching these denizens of the deep using an ecofriendly sustainable trawling method. Dive Mahara runs three-hour fishing trips off the coast of Sir Bani Yas Island for up to four people. Its ten-metre custom fibreglass boats are designed for UAE sport fishing conditions, and all levels are welcome. From Dhs 2,200/`40,753; all equipment included. n Desert Islands Watersports Centre, Sir Bani Yas Island; divemahara.com
FLOWBOARDING
A Clockwise from left: Bubble’s Barrel at Yas Waterworld; Wakeboarding; Snorkelling along the Arabian Gulf coral reefs Visit businesstraveller.com
bu Dhabi has emerged as a favourite watersports destination, thanks to its crystal-clear placid waters, abundant marine life, more than 400km of coastline and 200 islands. Add to that some of the world’s most exciting water parks, luxurious resorts and stunning marinas and it’s easy to see why business travellers want to get out of the boardroom and on to the beach. Whether your idea of fun is a hedonistic champagne-fuelled yacht cruise, zooming along on a wakeboard or kayaking in search of rare humpbacked dolphins, here are ten ways to enjoy Abu Dhabi on the water.
Unlike the placid Arabian Gulf, the surf is always up at Yas Waterworld, home of the 2014 World Flowboarding Championships and the world’s largest man-made sheet waves. The three-metre high waves at Bubble’s Barrel rush towards you at up to 45 kmph, pumping 7,000 litres of water per second for the ultimate adrenaline rush. Wipeouts guaranteed. Boards included. The water park also has a range of exhilarating world record-breaking water slides and wet rides for a day of extreme fun. Water park entry, including rides, Dhs 240/`4,445. n Yas Waterworld, Yas Island; yaswaterworld.com
MANGROVE EXPLORING Stand-up paddle boarding is one of the fastestgrowing watersports in Abu Dhabi. You balance on a wide longboard, using a paddle to glide smoothly APRIL 2016 67
Time ouT... Abu Dhabi
along the scenic waterways of the mangroves, the biggest in the UAE, seeing protected rare species such as the dugong or sea cow, humpback dolphins, and indigenous waterfowl such as egrets, herons, and diving cormorants – while getting a workout that burns 500 to 1,000 calories an hour. Dhs 120/`2,222 per person per hour, including an instructions’ session. n Hydro Marine Sports, Eastern Mangroves Hotel and Spa by Anantara; hydromarinesports.com 68 APRIL 2016
EXTREME WAKEBOARDING This is one of the emirate’s most popular watersports thanks to its daredevil stunts, speed and style. It is similar to water-skiing but uses only one board, enabling riders to get more air. A speedboat whizzes you around as you hang on to the tow rope while balancing on your board, before learning to jump the wake. All tows are located on the Corniche, with ideal flat-water conditions and the Abu Dhabi skyline as a backdrop. Dhs 300 (`5,490 ) for 30-minute lesson; Dhs Visit businesstraveller.com
250/`4575 20-minute tow. n Watercooled at Hiltonia Beach Club, Hilton Abu Dhabi; watercooleddubai.com/abu-dhabi
FLYBOARDING Flyboarding is the latest craze in wild watersports to hit Abu Dhabi. Part-James Bond cool gadget, part-superhero kit, this amazing device uses water propulsion to launch you out of the sea at around 40kmph up to a height of 10 metres using a carbon fibre jet pack, with throttles to control altitude and direction. Once you get the hang of it, you can do stunts such as flips before splashing back down into the sea. Gulf Water Sports also has a second, more powerful Jetlev Flyer with a 15-metre hose that can fly up to 80kmph. Dhs 300/`5,490 for 30 minutes. n Ghantoot Watersports, Ghantoot Marina; jetskidubai.com
YELLOW BOAT CHARTER If you’ve got a packed schedule and are short on time, this award-winning one-hour private guided boat tour takes in all of Abu Dhabi’s top sights from the sea, such as the opulent Emirates Palace hotel, the futuristic skyscrapers of the Corniche, the traditional Arabian dhows and the birdlife on the scenic Al Lulu islands. Cruises are operated by top-of-the-line rigid inflatable rib boats with up to 500hp engines. They seat up to ten people if you want to treat your team to an outing that’s the perfect antidote to the office. Dhs 1,500/`27,450. n The Yellow Boats, Emirates Palace Marina; theyellowboats.com Clockwise from top left: Flyboarding; Standup paddle boarding; Scuba diving; Yellow Boatcharter Visit businesstraveller.com
DHOW DINNER As the sun goes down in a blaze of colour, come aboard your dhow, the classic wooden Arabian
boat used for centuries by local traders and pearl fishers. Spend a relaxed evening dining under the stars as you cruise along the Abu Dhabi Creek while indulging in a feast worthy of the 1,001 Nights, featuring a mouthwatering mezze followed by freshly grilled local seafood. Dhs 200/`3,660 per person. n Abu Dhabi Dhow Cruise, Corniche at Mina Port; dhowcruiseabudhabi.ae
NIGHT KAYAKING Noukhada Adventures, one of Abu Dhabi’s leading kayaking companies, has launched nighttime safaris. Using special LED lights fixed to the bottom of your kayak you will be able to see fish and other marine life under the water at night, as an expert guide reveals the secrets of this unique ecosystem. Safaris depart from the Eastern Mangrove National Park at 7pm Wednesdays, and Yas Beach at 7pm Thursdays. Prices from Dhs 210/`3,843 per person for a 90-minute session. Private tours upon request. n Various locations; noukhada.ae
SCUBA-DIVING If you can spare a few days’ layover, why not learn to dive in open water with a scuba-diving certificate from the Professional Association of Diving Instructors? Dive Mahara organises PADI courses providing all the materials and instruction needed to get certified, including two introductory pool dives and four open-water dives off the Breakwater and at Saadiyat Island. Each dive session lasts about four hours. Dhs 2,465/`45,678. Private and corporate rates are available. n Dive Mahara, Al Nahyan; divemahara. com n APRIL 2016 69
WELL-BEING
Uncommon
SCENTS Have you ever made your hotel booking decision based on which one smelt the best? Maybe you have without realising it, writes Tamsin Cocks
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f all the criteria when choosing hotel accommodation, smell is unlikely to rank in your top ten. Most of us don’t consider the eau de lobby at all, except for a few moments when we’re first hit by a cloud of floral infusions or zesty citrus scents. But marketing and scientific studies suggest our noses play a bigger role than we think, and it’s our olfactory systems being targeted by the latest hospitality trend to develop “signature scents”. The sense of smell is directly linked to our limbic system, the part of the brain that deals with emotions. That’s why reactions to smell are rarely neutral, and people either like or dislike a particular smell. Smell is also linked to memory, which we’ve all experienced; a whiff of sunscreen triggering images of childhood summer holidays for example. Marketing mavens in the consumer world cottoned on to this fact years ago: the aroma of freshly baked bread is commonly pumped into supermarkets to increase sales; that “new car” smell is deliberately added by car manufacturers, and that freshly laundered smell from washing detergents? Yes, that’s artificial too. Branding a scent has also been around for over a decade. Retail giants Abercrombie & Fitch announced their presence on the high street in a plume of “Fierce” back in 2002, beckoning to its fashionable, young clientele. Hijacking your sense of smell is like the golden ticket of marketing. Arguably if a company can positively imprint its brand on your nose, it’s subliminally secured a loyal, repeat customer.
BESPOKE AROMAS Scent Linq is a company that specialises in creating bespoke signature scents for a wide range of clients that includes the Marina Bay Sands in Singapore, The Landmark Macau, Raffles Hotel Istanbul and The Royal Garden Hotel Hong Kong. According to April Ho, chief advisor of aromatherapy for the Hong Kong branch, it’s about
This page: A Scent Linq signature; St Regis Hotels & Resorts' Caroline's Four Hundred scented candles
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time hotels started to tap into this subconscious pathway. “Having a strong brand is all about making your mark on the minds of your customers. A ‘signature scent’ makes someone identify your brand by their sense of smell, which gives them a great insight into your brand’s personality,” she says. “A few decades ago, architects saw lighting as a luxury; now it has become a central aspect of spatial design. Scent will increasingly be used to draw out sensual elements of public and private spaces.” It’s a trend that is catching on quickly, and today it seems everyone has an olfactory logo. Le Meridien conjured the scent of old leather-bound books to welcome guests when LM01 debuted in 2007, while Shangri-La set out to invoke the smell of paradise in 2006 with the Essence of Shangri-La. White Tea by Westin offers notes of geranium and freesia, chosen for their scientifically proven properties of relaxation, while the Sheraton spritzes Open Skies throughout its lobby, infused with notes of waterlily, rose, white musk and the ocean. More recently, Air Aroma – a leading scent marketing specialist – created a bespoke fragrance based around red, green and white tea with notes of rose and citrus for the Taj Hotel Group, which has been circulating through its US flagship property, The Pierre in New York, since late last year. Nuo Hotel Beijing, which opened earlier this year, is scented with Nuo White China – a complex scent with a Chinese citrus essence at the core, combined with cedarwood, cypress, Chinese evodia plus more European fragrances such as bergamot. APRIL 2016 71
Well-being
NOTES OF HERITAGE Last September, St Regis Hotels & Resorts revealed “Caroline’s Four Hundred”, the brand’s first bespoke scent. Global brand director Daphne Sipos explains the fragrance is inspired by Caroline Astor, the matriarch of the hotel’s founding family and social doyenne of 19th century New York. “We wanted something that resonated with the brand and told a story, which is what we try to do with every aspect of the hotel,” says Sipos. “After interviewing quite a few people, we decided to work with Carlos Huber of Arquiste, who has a background in architecture and history, and matched with our philosophy of storytelling. He delved into research and unearthed an old newspaper clipping about one of the famous balls Caroline Astor had hosted attended by 400 people from the highest echelons of society. “There was a description of the contemporary flowers that were present, like roses – which were her favourite flower – green stems, white lilies, quince and cherry blossom. The description of the blooms that adorned the walls created a recipe for the signature scent.” For Langham Hotels, distinction and identification were key factors for the delicate Ginger Flower signature scent, which has been diffused throughout the lobbies of Langham properties worldwide since 2008. Bob van den Oord, managing director and vice president of brands for The Langham Hong Kong, says, “Nowadays the whole scent experience is actually quite crucial. When you walk into a lobby 72 April 2016
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of luxury. At India’s 92-room Vana Malsi Estate in Dehradun, for example, the team blends a bespoke scent from locally produced essential oils, including rose, jasmine and sandalwood, to help guests unwind. At the Indigo Pearl resort in Phuket, a local flower – white champaca – inspired the signature scent infused into room sprays, refreshing hand towels and spa treatments.
KICKING UP A STINK
Clockwise from opposite page: The Langham Hong Kong's lobby boasts ginger flower aromas; matching scents is an exact science; floral essential oils are popular
it’s not just about what you see, it’s about the captivation of the senses and what you experience. “We wanted a signature scent because it differentiates us from the other brands out there. It also allows people to identify the scent with the Langham brand, so whether you stay at The Langham Place in New York, Melbourne or London, you walk in and recognise that Langham scent.”
TAKE HOME SCENTS
Like many hotels, The Langham has commercialised its scent, with Ginger Flower scented candles, reed diffusers, oils and room sprays all available to purchase in the shop alongside other signature items such as bedding and teas. “Ginger Flower fragrance items are one of our best-sellers”, confirms van den Oord. “The figures show people love the scent, and if people are taking a little bit of The Langham into their households, it’s very powerful for us.” Langham Hotels and Resorts recently debuted a new brand, Cordis, which has also been designated its own signature scent, Sparkling Mint. Designed by well-known nose Christophe Laudamiel, it provides a “refreshing energy based on a citrus medley of sweet orange, grapefruit and lemon”. “Cordis is more of a well-being brand,” says van den Oord. “It’s about devotion to our guests, and we feel that the refreshing, soothing, relaxing nature of Sparkling Mint suits the brand well.” It’s not just big hospitality brands that are using smell to lure in customers: many smaller boutique properties are also seeing scent as an inexpensive yet effective way to enhance their brand and add a sense Visit businesstraveller.com
Not everyone is a fan of bespoke scents in hotels, however. People react to certain smells differently, and many are simply opposed to the idea in principle. In our forum, signature scents appeared to be a particularly divisive topic. While many waxed lyrical about perfumed public spaces, others were not so complimentary. “I loathe them,” laments one Business Traveller forum contributor. “They stink, and worse, they can give me asthma. It’s pollution, just as canned music is aural pollution. I would never go back to such a hotel.” This is why working with an industry nose can prove vital, as they know which scents are almost universally liked – no one gags at freshly brewed coffee in the morning after all – and can even narrow down preferences to cultural, geographic and sociodemographic factors. Scent Linq’s Ho relays her wisdom: “Most ladies are looking for a sweet smell, but the feedback from most males is that they don’t like them. On the other hand, floral scents or tea mixed with floral flavours tend to be the most popular. “In Hong Kong a lot of our scents are based on tea fragrances, whereas in Turkey [where the company’s headquarters is based] the preference is for strong, spicier scents like amber.” Meanwhile, master perfumer Laudamiel says: “Citrus extracts are probably the best essences to bring people together; they are well accepted and connote positivism and bright energy for all cultures around the world. The exhausted traveller will appreciate the well-being and relaxing feeling of verbena, for example.” In fact, choosing an unpleasant smell is far less of a problem than getting the quantity and quality right. “It’s like perfume”, explains Ho. “If you apply a little bit, it’s pleasant and you smell clean and fresh. If you apply too much – woah. Sometimes our clients contact us after a couple of months and say the fragrance is too faint. But it’s more a case of the staff becoming immune to the smell, and we recommend they don’t change the levels.” Ultimately, it’s hard to believe we are being influenced by how a hotel smells. But next time you’re stuck between a choice of properties, perhaps it’s time to follow your nose. n April 2016 73
PRODUCTS...April
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1 Jaeger-LeCoultre-Reverso; PRICE On request; jaeger-lecoultre.com 2 Grover Vineyards-La Reserve; PRICE `1,000; groverzampa.in 3 Truefitt & Hill-Blue Edwardian Set; PRICE `22,000; truefittandhill.in 4 Tumi-Astor Regis; PRICE `60,000; tumi.in 5 Ermenegildo Zegna EZ0009 52J-Dark Havana; PRICE On request; zegna.com
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On sale now tax-free at airports BUY & FLY
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1 Omega-Speed Master Grey Side of the Moon; WHERE? CSIA T2 Mumbai; PRICE On request 2 Grey Goose Vodka; WHERE? CSIA Mumbai; PRICE US$56 for 100 cl 3 Johnnie Walker Blue Label; WHERE? Johnnie Walker House, CSIA T2 Mumbai; PRICE US$208 4 Hugo Boss-The Scent; WHERE? Delhi International airport; PRICE On request 5 Paco Rabanne Invictus 100 ml; WHERE? CSIA T2, Mumbai and Delhi International airport; PRICE US$70
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LUXURY
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Splurge For Splendour Arunima Kumar lists ten wishful items for an opulent indulgence, from a royal puff to a dream machine
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ometimes the most hard to obtain object is the most desired one as well. This is why most items on this list, limited editions, are looked at with an envious longing. The others are just aspirational.
1. Private jet Men love their toys and private jets rank high on the list. For luxurious travel, Boeing Business Jets (BBJ) can be considered. One of the BBJ models is 747-8, is an enormous double deck aircraft, with a 482 sqm area that comprises of a stateroom, living area, private office, master and guest suite, private living room, fully equipped bathrooms and a dining room. But each aircraft can be customised, and they usually are, so the nuances of the interiors are tweaked to comfort when constantly travelling for work. Price: on request; boeing.com/commercial/bbj
2. Whisky Whisky, if translated from Irish (uisce beatha) means “Water of Life”. This says a lot about how important whisky is to man, and choosing the right distill defines his taste and status. In 1963, malt master David Stewart, selected two European oak hogshead (Cask 4567 and 4570) and filled them up with Balvenie spirit. Fifty years later, the Cask 4567 matured into a deep amber single malt whisky with the intoxicating aroma of dried fruits such as raisins, sultana and the faint spiciness of ginger. The Balvenie Cask 4567 is of thick viscosity and tastes of dark fruits including cherries and blackberries with an explosion of spicy ground ginger, cinnamon and allspice. Cask 4570 has a distinctly golden hue and a taste characterised by toffee sweetness, honey and vanilla oak. Both are limited editions with 131 bottles from Visit businesstraveller.com
Cask 4567 and 128 bottles from Cask 4570. The next older one has been aged 40 years. Price: on request; thebalvenie.com
3. Automobile James Bond movies are a definition of style. Suits, gadgets, cars, not to mention Bond girls, become the talk of the town with each movie release. Aston Martin has been a part of 12 out of 24 James Bond movies, for over 50 years. In the latest Bond release Spectre, ten Aston Martin DB10 have been exclusively produced of which eight have been used in the movie and two are show cars. With a 4.0-litre V-8 engine and AMG’s seven-speed, dual-clutch transmission, this dream machine was auctioned for about US$7.8 million at the James Bond Auction. Price: highest bid wins if auctioned again; astonmartin.com
4. Accessory
Jacob & Co’s Roulette cufflinks are a subtext for risk. I say this because it’s not just for anyone who wants to own a piece of jewellery, but for someone who wants to make a statement. The pair made from 18-k white gold has the face of a roulette table. A total of 120 brilliant cut diamonds totalling 2.11 carats, with enamel, frame the roulette discs. The only missing feature is the numbers on the red and black strips. Price: on request; jacobandco.com
5. Watch The most common accessory for a man is probably his watch. It needs to be timelessly elegant. Admiration for classic timepieces can be expensive though. One such worthy piece is Louis Moinet’s Astromoon, with its hand-worked aventurine dial, column-wheel chronograph, and fragments of Dhofar APRIL 2016 77
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459 meteorite. Its most fascinating feature is the moon-phase complication that allows tracking of the orbiting rock’s movements from your wrist. Further, hands of the watch are inspired by Louis Moinet’s design for the Julius Caesar clock created more than a century ago in 1825. Made of 373 components, Astromoon is a limited edition with 28 timepieces on the planet. Price: on request; louismoinet.com
6. Luggage
You should own a Domenico Vacca’s travel bag, handmade from alligator skin, because a bag is crafted from genuine reptile leather, which in this case it is, durability is unquestionably impressive. Another special feature of the bag is that it is made on request only, and is fully colour to strap-length. The bag, created for men, comes in two colours with a removable shoulder strap, a front zipped pocket and a tag to emboss or stamp your initials or emblem Price: starts from US$58,000; domenicovacca.com 78 APRIL 2016
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7. Yacht Only the uber rich can ever imagine owning the Superyacht Kiss. She is a 46.40 metres long trideck motor yacht built by Feadship. Her layout is spacious for 12 guests with one double and three twin cabins. Features include a sundeck with Jacuzzi, and a transom swim platform. The host may occupy a cordoned off upper deck (with a sunroof) that includes a six-seat dining table at the aft deck, and a saloon. The crew have a staff room, four cabins and a captain’s cabin. Powered by two 1,450hp Caterpillars that give a top speed of 16.5 knots, there is only one of Kiss. What fun would it be if you couldn’t add your personal tweaks to the boat, right? Price: US$38,993,000 approximately; feadship.nl
8. Motorbike The adrenaline rush from riding a motorcycle is one of a kind: daredevil speeds adding to the risks involved in racing on a roaring two-wheeler. Think billet cylinders, 2,100cc displacement, more than 200 rear wheel horsepower, handcrafted carbon fibre bodyworks and wheel, titanium exhaust pipes, and customised saddles with configurations for the rider and passenger at 440 pounds in weight. We’re talking about the Ecosse FE Ti XX motorbikes, a limited Visit businesstraveller.com
edition of the Ecosse Moto Works’ Titanium Series. Price: about US$3,00,000; ecossemoto.com
9. Stationery
Montegrappa’s limited edition “Bespoke” is as the name suggests, custom made. Skilled and veteran European engravers are employed to bring it to life from a paper sketch. Once you place an order after choosing from 24 different celluloid cap colours, you’re requested for the image or verse you would like engraved on the pen’s body. The artisans use traditional tools and techniques to etch it onto a gold or silver body, making the pen a piece of art. Price: on request; montegrappa.com
10. Cigar If you’re one to enjoy a puff on grade tobacco, you’re probably looking at good craftsmanship and tobacco quality. Gurkha’s His Majesty’s Reserve (HMR) is one such creation — and the most expensive in the world. A collector’s item, less than 100 are manufactured each year. What makes it special is the 15-year Connecticut Maduro wrapper, and 12-yearold Dominican binder and filler that is aged with Louis XIII Cognac. Gurkha claims that this prized product is the “Rolls Royce of the cigar world”. Price: US $750 per cigar; gurkhacigars.com ■ APRIL 2016 79
TASTE
Tea Tales
istock
Neha Gupta talks about India’s many teas and how they’re served around the country
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fter China, India is the largest producer of tea, yielding about 1,197 million kilograms per year. Of this, about 70 per cent is consumed by more than a billion Indian tea-drinkers. And each has a preference in the way the leaf is brewed — some like it milky, some without sugar, and a few like it black. A majority of east Indians, for example, like their tea strong and black, and the leaves grown on 7,71,487 acres of Assam’s slopes exude the necessary rich, full-bodied, malty flavour that immediately revives you from any lethargy. A favourite breakfast tea, it is grown in a climate that is most conducive for tea production — low altitude, ample rainfall, loamy soil, and proximity to a gushing river, in this case the Brahmaputra. Such is the punch in Assam tea that grandmothers’ secret recipes use a pinch of the leaves to enhance the taste of Indian dishes. No wonder Assam alone gives us over 500 million kilograms of tea a year. While the north easterners wouldn’t add anything to their black tea, except maybe a pinch of sugar, other parts of India may also add milk, and perhaps a little cardamom to mask its bitterness. Typically, Indian chai is about brewing milk, tea and sugar together; with cardamon for taste; ginger for the extra zing; holy basil (tulsi) for its medicinal properties; and when you throw clove, cinnamon and black pepper into the boil, voila!, you have just made for yourself the Indian masala chai! However, serve Darjeeling tea, from the namesake slopes at the foot of the Himalayas in West Bengal, and even the fussiest tea drinkers will prefer it undiluted. This is inherently a Chinese tea growing on Indian slopes whose notes are compared by connoisseurs to Muscat wine, and described as delicate and flowery. The soft gold liquid can be enjoyed without any milk or sugar, much like a tisane after a meal, as a dessert tea. When it gained commercial value, Darjeeling tea was sent to Tamil Nadu for experimental planting. Characteristics of the Nilgiri mountains matched
MorE TEA, plEASE Anamallais State: tamil Nadu and kerala Golden-saffron colour; strong bodied with a hint of biscuity sweetness, and biscuity to floral aromas. Wayanad State: kerala and tamil Nadu Earthy, reddish colour; medium bodied with a smooth finish. Munnar State: kerala Golden-yellow colour; fragrance of sweet biscuits, hint of orange, strong bodied with fruity notes and lingering sweetness.
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TASTE
DRINK LIKE THE LOCALS Tea stalls or tapris as they’re commonly known are the essence of Indian streets. It’s not unusual to find corporate executives take a break with a cup of chai (up to `10) and the fried snacks at such tapris. Every street corner will have one, if not more. Some cities have tea-vendors cycling the roads in search of customers; they’re seldom disappointed. Come midnight, and though the roadside stalls shut shop, you’re likely to get your hot cup at railway stations. India Study Report says that last year, close to 990 million kilograms of tea was consumed. Perhaps we can deduce from this that India is, indeed, a nation of tea-addicts. Cutting chai A typical term in Mumbai, it is a slang for the quantity of tea served. Literally, “cutting chai” translates to “half cup tea”. It is served in ribbed, 4-inch glass tumblers. The strong brew is mixed with heaps of sugar — not for those who prefer mild teas. Kullad chai Kolkata’s chaiwala will pour a strong cup of Assam brew in a wide-mouth, clay cup. Here they use equal parts of water and milk, spiced with ginger and cardamon, and spoonfuls of sugar. The normal practice is to break the clay cup on the pavement when empty. Old Delhi-style Tea will be served to you in a glass tumbler placed in a ceramic cup. The idea is that most share their tea with an accompanying friend; hence the cup and glass. Some even fathom that this is so if one is in a hurry, he can cool his hot drink by pouring it into the cup and back into the glass; repeat until it reaches the desired temperature. Kahwa Kashmiris sip this often during the winter to keep warm. Cinnamon, cardamom and cloves are boiled in water for about seven minutes, and then strained over fresh green tea leaves. Saffron that is dissolved in water separately is added to the strained, flavoured water, with sliced almond and a dash of honey or sugar. Sulaimani chai Bengaluru has adopted this tea culture from the Middle East, as have parts of Hyderabad. It is black tea with lemon and sugar in the ratio of 1:2. Some substitute sugar with jaggery. Apart from being a pick-meup, it is believed to be an antitoxin too. The city also serves Kachhi chai, which is tea and sugar added to boiling milk. Not using any water, this is really milky, and liked by merely a handful. Po cha India’s Himalayan slopes have taken this buttery-tea recipe from Tibet. Tea leaves are brewed for half a day until the water turns a dark brown colour. It is poured through a sieve and into a glass that holds a large chunk of yak butter and some salt; and can only be enjoyed by accquiring its taste. 82 APRIL 2016
TEA HOUSES Not ready to embrace tea like the locals? Perhaps these tea houses will please your senses…. Taj Mahal Tea House Starts at `150 for a cup of tea; open daily 7:30am11:30pm; 36/A, Sanatan Pereira Bungalow, St John Baptist Rd, Bandra West, Mumbai 400050; tel: +91 22 2642 0330; tajmahaltea.com Dolly’s The Tea Shop Starts at `40 for a cup of tea; open daily 7:30am10:30pm; Shop No. G-62, Ground Floor, 2, Gariahat Road South, Kolkata 700068; tel: +91 33 2423 6445 Elma’s Bakery, Bar & Kitchen Starts at `150 for a pot of tea; open daily 7:30am11:30pm; 31 Hauz Khas village, New Delhi 110016; tel: +91 11 3310 5386 Lloyds Tea House Starts at `70 for a cup of tea; open daily 11am11pm; 179 Lloyds Road, Gopalapuram, Chennai 600086; tel: +91 44 4551 4231; lloydsteahouse.in Infinitea Starts at `80 for a cup of tea; open daily 11am11pm; 2, 17/1, Ali Asker Road, Shah Sultan Complex, Cunningham Road, Bengaluru 560052; tel: +91 80 4126 5258; infiniteabengaluru.in
those of Darjeeling and today it is a favourite in South India. In fact, 70 per cent of the region is dedicated to tea plantations — majority lies in Tamil Nadu, and the borders of Kerala and Karnataka — and with an approximate production of 110 million kilograms, Nilgiri tea is roughly 10 per cent of India’s total tea production. Closer to the Arabian Sea, and grown amongst spices, the tea has come to exude a distinct characteristic of its own. The brew is fragrant, bright, and full-bodied with a creamy mouth and strong and bold, fruity notes — definitely stronger than Darjeeling’s produce. As it doesn’t cloud when cooled, you’re probably sipping on Nilgiri tea, in your flavoured iced tea, for its rich taste, and compatibility with fruit mixes. ■ Visit businesstraveller.com
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