TOURISM INDIA FEBRUARY 2015

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Visit Kerala Year 2015 Malaysia, Thailand, Taiwan & Toronto Tourism Road Shows Holiday Inn Jaipur

1.1 Billion Tourists 14 Million Jobs

Move forward with a focused approach and strategy

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s per the initial statistics of Ministry of Tourism, Tourist arrival to India and overall revenue share from Tourism is increasing day by day. India Tourism shows the positive growth in many front. Our total Foreign Tourist arrival was 74.63 lakhs in 2014 compared to 69.676 lakhs FTA in 2013. The Foreign Exchange earnings in 2014 was INR 1, 20,902 crores compared to INR 1, 07,671 crores in 2013. Government of India has launched Tourist Visa on Arrival (TVoA) enabled by Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) on 27th November 2014 for 43 countries. Prior to this the normal TVoA scheme was in operational only for 12 countries. The newly introduced Visa facilitation will strengthen the Tourism industry in our country. The initial trends show a positive growth in this area. FTAs during the Month of January 2015 were 7.90 lakh as compared to FTAs of 7.59 lakh during the month of January 2014 and 7.20 lakh in January 2013. There has been a growth of 4.0% in January 2015 over January 2014. All the trends shows that India also trying hard to catch the global tourism band wagon.

Globally, the number of international tourists (overnight visitors) reached 1,138 million in 2014, 51 million more than in 2013. With an increase of 4.7%, this is the fifth consecutive year of above average growth since the 2009 economic crisis in global tourism scenario.

“Over the past years, tourism has proven to be a surprisingly strong and resilient economic activity and a fundamental contributor to the economic recovery by generating billions of dollars in exports and creating millions of jobs. This has been true for destinations all around the world, but particularly for Europe, as the region struggles to consolidate its way out of one of the worst economic periods in its history,” said Mr. Taleb Rifai, UNWTO Secretary-General, Dr. Mahesh Sharma, Tourism Minister of India is very keen to promote rural tourism since even urban India is not familiar with the rural life. Apart from this, India‘s rich resources like rivers which can be beneficial for developing Cruise Tourism which is nonexistent in the country at present.

Suggesting the need for speedy implementation of PRASAD and Development of Integrated Circuits, the Minister said that there should be no delay in implementing those portions of the scheme which are within the ambit of the Central Government.

National Steering Committee for new plan schemes of ‘PRASAD’ and ‘Integrated Development of Tourist Circuits’ also suggested that there is not only a need to focus on infrastructure but emphasis should also be placed on soft skills like training of guides and generating livelihood and employment among local communities during its first meeting held at Delhi.

Prospects for a better tomorrow is clear but where we starts and how to move forward with focused approach and innovative strategies with a limited time frame. That is the biggest challenge in front of us all…. Hope Industry and authority will emerge and rise on time to move further.

Ravisankar K.V.

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February 2015 Vol No. 16 No 10

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Over 1.1 Billion Tourists Travelled Abroad in 2014

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Tourism should be made affordable for the Common Man

Keala Tourism to Launch: Visit Kerala Year 2015

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February 2015 Vol. 16 No. 10 Price: India ` 75 US$ 4.99 GBP 2.99

Visit Kerala Year 2015 Malaysia, Thailand, Taiwan & Toronto Tourism Road Shows Holiday Inn Jaipur

1.1 Billion Tourists 14 Million Jobs

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Cover Photograph : Bamboo Rafting at Periyar Tiger Reserve, Thekkady, Kerala Photo by Shibu Bhaskar

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49 India and Philippines calls for Improve Air Connectivity

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Tourism Toronto hosts India’s leading Companies

Taiwan Tourism conducts 4 City Roadshows

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Thai Tourism Minister makes maiden visit to India

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Road Show by Tourism Minister of Malaysia for Myfest 2015 in Mumbai

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nternational tourist arrivals reached 1,138 million in 2014, a 4.7% increase over the previous year, according to the latest UNWTO World Tourism Barometer. For 2015, UNWTO forecasts international tourism to grow by 3% to 4%, further contributing to the global economic recovery.

The number of international tourists (overnight visitors) reached 1,138 million in 2014, 51 million more than in 2013. With an increase of 4.7%, this is the fifth consecutive year of above average growth since the 2009 economic crisis.

“Over the past years, tourism has proven to be a surprisingly strong and resilient economic activity and a fundamental contributor to the economic recovery by generating billions of dollars in exports and creating millions of jobs.

This has been true for destinations all around the world, but particularly for Europe, as the region struggles to consolidate its way out of one of the worst economic periods in its history,” said UN14

WTO Secretary-General, Taleb Rifai, opening the Spain Global Tourism Forum in Madrid.

By region, the Americas (+7%) and Asia and the Pacific (+5%) registered the strongest growth, while Europe (+4%), the Middle East (+4%) and Africa (+2%) grew at a slightly more modest pace. By subregion, North America (+8%) saw the best results, followed by NorthEast Asia, South Asia, Southern and Mediterranean Europe, Northern Europe and the Caribbean, all increasing by 7%.

As in recent years, the growth in international tourism receipts in 2014 is expected to have followed that of arrivals fairly close (the 2014 results for international tourism receipts will be released in April 2015). In 2013, international tourism receipts reached US$ 1,197 billion, US$ 230 billion more than in the pre-crisis year of 2008.

Positive outlook for 2015 For 2015, UNWTO forecasts international tourist

arrivals to grow between 3% and 4%. By region, growth is expected to be stronger in Asia and the Pacific (+4% to +5%) and the Americas (+4% to +5%), followed by Europe (+3% to +4%). Arrivals are expected to increase by +3% to +5% in Africa and by +2% to +5% in the Middle East.

“We expect demand to continue growing in 2015 as the global economic situation improves even though there are still plenty of challenges ahead. On the positive side, oil prices have declined to a level not seen since 2009. This will lower transport costs and boost economic growth by lifting purchasing power and private demand in oil importing economies. Yet, it could also negatively impact some of the oil exporting countries which have emerged as strong tourism source markets,” added Mr Rifai.

The positive outlook for 2015 is confirmed by the UNWTO Confidence Index. According to the 300 tourism experts consulted worldwide for the Index, tourism per-

formance is expected to improve in 2015, though expectations are less upbeat than a year ago.

Europe consolidates its position as the most visited region in the world Europe (+4%), the most visited region with over half of the world’s international tourists, saw an increase of 22 million arrivals in 2014, reaching a total of 588 million.

Thanks to these results, tourism has been a major contributor to the European economic recovery.

Northern Europe and Southern and Mediterranean Europe led growth (both +7%), while results were more modest in Western Europe (+2%).

Arrivals in Central and Eastern Europe (0%) stagnated after three years of strong growth.

International tourist arrivals in Asia and the Pacific (+5%) increased by 13 million to 263 million.

The best performance was recorded in NorthEast Asia and South Asia (both +7%). Arrivals in Oceania grew by 6%, while growth slowed down in South-East Asia (+2%) as compared to previous years.

The Americas was the best performing region in relative terms with growth of 7%, welcoming an additional 13 million international tourists

and raising the total to 181 million. Growth was driven by North America (+8%), where Mexico posted a double-digit increase, and the Caribbean (+7%). Arrivals to Central America and South America (both +6%) grew at double the rate recorded in 2013 and well above the world average.

International tourism in the Middle East (+4%) shows signs of rebound with good results in most destinations. The region attracted an additional 2 million arrivals, bringing the total to 50 million.

Africa’s international tourist numbers grew by an estimated 2%, equivalent to an increase of one million arrivals. The region reached 56 million tourists. While arrivals to North Africa were weak (+1%), Sub-Saharan Africa saw international tourist numbers rise by 3% despite the Ebola Virus Disease outbreak in a few West African countries.

Data for Africa and the Middle East should be read with caution as it is based on limited and volatile data.

Demand from traditional source markets picks up A pickup in expenditure on international tourism from traditional source markets compensated for the slowdown of the large emerging markets, which had been

driving tourism growth in previous years.

The total number of trips abroad from China is estimated to have increased by 11 million to 109 million in 2014.

Expenditure was up by 17% in the first three quarters of 2014, a strong result but slower than in previous years (40% in 2012 and 26% in 2013, respectively). China is the world’s largest outbound market since 2012 with a total expenditure of US$ 129 billion in 2013.

Among the other two main emerging markets, the Russian Federation (-6%) clearly lost strength in 2014, while Brazil still grew by 2%, despite the appreciation of the US dollar against the Brazilian real and slower economic growth. Beyond the top ten, some smaller emerging markets saw expenditure grow substantially, with Saudi Arabia, India, the Philippines and Qatar all reporting increases of 30% or over.

A pickup in demand from traditional source markets compensated for the slowdown of the large emerging markets.

Expenditure from the United States, the second largest outbound market in the world, grew by 6%.

Noteworthy is also the rebound of France (+11%), Italy (+6%) and the United Kingdom (+4%).

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Dr Mahesh Sharma

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he Parliamentary Consultative Committee of the Ministry of Tourism and Ministry of Culture held its meeting in Kachchh, Gujarat recently and was chaired by Dr Mahesh Sharma, Union Minister of State for Tourism & Culture.

Addressing the participants, Dr Mahesh Sharma said that tourism should not just be the sole prerogative of the rich. It

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should be made affordable for the domestic tourist also who desires to take his or her old parents for a pilgrimage, he added. The agenda of the meeting was “General overview of Tourism sector” for Ministry of Tourism and “General overview on Culture” for Ministry of Culture.

The Minister explained the new schemes PRASAD and HRIDAY introduced in the Budget of 2014-15. The MPs appreciated the introduction of Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) as an excellent initiative and that it should be expanded further. They also spoke of opportunities to promote culture and tourism in their respective constituencies. Sh.

Bishnu Pada Ray spoke of the immense potential of Andaman and Nicobar from tourism angle and development of Viper Island and Cellular Jail by the ASI. MPs also advised about proper monitoring of Central funds.

Presentations on the working of the Ministries of Tourism and Culture were made before the members of the consultative committee during the meeting. Dr Sharma elaborated the vision and mission of the two ministries to the Members of Parliament. An overview of the tourism sector, the scenario of tourism in Indian economy, global scenario, challenges and goals were also discussed in the meeting.

National Steering Committee

‘PRASAD’ T

ourism Minister emphasizes synergy among stakeholders for speedy implementation of schemes The first meeting of National Steering Committee for new plan schemes of PRASAD and Integrated Development of Tourist Circuits of Ministry of Tourism was held in New Delhi and was chaired by Dr. Mahesh Sharma. the Minister of State for Culture (Independent Charge), Tourism (Independent Charge) and Civil Aviation, The meeting was attended by the representatives of various ministries like Railways, Water Resources, Rural Development, Urban Development, Power, Transport and Highways and Culture Ministry among others.

The various stakeholders gave details of some of the projects to promote Tourism being implemented by them and how they can be dovetailed with PRASAD as well as scheme of Development of Tourist Circuits.

Addressing the participants, Dr. Mahesh Sharma emphasized the need for inter-ministerial cooperation and coordination to create proper

synergy for the success of the schemes. He said that there is a need to promote rural tourism since even urban India is not familiar with the rural life. Apart from this, India has rich resources like rivers which can be beneficial for developing Cruise Tourism which is nonexistent in the country at present, he added.

Suggesting the need for speedy implementation of PRASAD and Development of Integrated Circuits, the Minister said that there should be no delay in implementing those portions of the scheme which are within the ambit of the Central Government. He also urged the officials to launch within a week the projects already identified and in which a substantial ground work has already been done.

The representatives of various ministries

promised to send their proposals as discussed in the meeting in writing to the Ministry of Tourism. They suggested that there is not only a need to focus on infrastructure but emphasis should also be placed on soft skills like training of guides and generating livelihood and employment among local communities.

Mr Ravindra Singh, Secretary(Culture), pointed out that the locations for the Buddhist circuit must be finalized quickly and the Banaras circuit , which will form a good project to be taken up under the scheme, should also be developed. Dr Lalit Panwar Secretary (Tourism), highlighted the importance of Cruise Tourism saying that it comprises a negligible percentage of total tourism in the country and has a great potential.

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erala Tourism’s ‘ Visit Kerala 2015’, a new initiative to promote the state’s destinations will be launched this year from April 1, with series of events ranging from the arts to sports was recently announced by Mr. A.P. Anilkumar, Minister for Tourism, Kerala. Kerala Tourism department

and its Industry stake holders has decided to celebrate ‘Visit Kerala 2015’ from April 14, 2015 to April 14, 2016.

“The main focus of Visit Kerala 2015 will be to strengthen the promotion of tourism products including Ayurveda, Responsible Tourism, and Spice Route- Muziris”,

said Mr. Anil Kumar.

The year 2015 will be an eventful year for the tourists visiting the state, with range of events and festivities in the pipeline, including the ongoing 2nd Kochi Muzirtis Biennale till March, Nishagandhi Dance Festival in January, National Games in Februay, Thrissur Pooram in

Visit Kerala 2015 will promote Kerala Tourism products like Ayurveda, Spice Routes, Muziris Circuit, Cultural festivals, Weddings, MICE and Adventure tourism, besides Cycling.

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April, Nehru Trophy Boat Race in August and the International Film Festival of Kerala in December.

In the wake of Vist Kerala 2015, Kerala Tourism will explore new markets in the Western and Eastern countries including neighbouring countries like China and Sri Lanka.

Aggressive campaign that target potential travelers in big traditional markets for Kerala will be conducted in the United Kingdom, France and Germany through trade fairs and road shows. Consumer fairs and familraisation trip will be introduced in upcoming markets like USA, Canada, Japan and Australia. Kerala Tourism will also explore new markets like China and Sri Lanka through trade fairs and familiraisation tours.

“The tourism department will host a tourism industrial meet to promote responsible tourism and encourage the participation of local communities in tourism sector. The meet will provide guidance to people on setting up home stays and villas with small scale investment”, the Minister added Leveraging the increased connectvities, afocued Ayurveda and Monsoon campign will be conducted in the Middle East where 90% of the diapsora are from Kerala.

Trade Fairs, road shows

and familiraisation tours campaign for Tour Opeartors and Media will be Kerala Tourism’s pursuit in the Eastern Countries.

Visit Kerala 2015 will promote Kerala Tourism products like Ayurveda, Spice Routes, Muziris Circuit, Cultural festivals, Weddings, MICE and Adventure tourism, besides Cycling. The second phase of Kerala Tourism, Kerala- Home of Ayurveda’ campaign will also be launched in selected national and international markets like Germany and Austria.

Apart from the international market, the state tourism is planning a major off season promotional blitz in the country to counter seasonality in arrivals.

Kerala Tourism will also showcase the Spice Route and Muziris heritage through an interna-

tional campaign to promote heritage tourism in the state.

A comprehensive festivals and events calendar will be prepared and promoted through multiple channels, including India Tourism Offices and Indian embassies abroad. Kerala will be promoted as a major “Wedding and MICE destination” through online campaigns. The tourism department will also prepare wedding venue databases.

Adding to this, adventure and cycling holidays will be promoted to attract youth and students.

“Contests like Visit Kerala Contests will be conducted for tourists, who have holidayed in Kerala in 2015, with attractive gifts and complimentary holidays. Also, there will be social media and online campaigns to promote 2015 as the 19

Mr. A.P. Anilkumar, Minister for Tourism, Kerala anouncinfg the Visit Kerala Year 2015 at Trivandrum in the presence of Mr. P I Sheik Pareeth IAS, Director, Mr. G Kamala Vardhana Rao IAS, Tourism Secretary; and Mrs. Anupama TV IAS, Additional Director (General) of Kerala Tourism

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best time to visit the state, highlighting the festivals and events, along with the contests”, said Mr. Anil Kumar.

The minister also noted the increase in the total number of hotel rooms in the state from 40,000 in 2010 to the present figure of 75,000. “This is a good sign for the tourism industry in the state”, he added.

Kerala Tourism will also launch a new theme campaign to showcase Kerala and its unique attractions, to strengthen Kerala’s position as ‘God’s Own Country’ and to create a destination pull. Food festivals will be conducted in cities like Delhi and Mumbai to market Kerala’s authentic cuisine, one of the tourist attractions in the state.

Considering the fact that 2015 has more than 13 long weekends, campaigns for weekends and short breaks will be conducted in metros and nearby cities.

Highlighting the importance of responsible tourism, a ‘God’s Own Country, People’s Own Tourism’ campaign will be conducted across the state to sensitise local communities to tour-

ism and its opportunities.

As part of the destination development initiative, the state will implement master plans and industry-driven cleanliness campaign in major destinations across the state. A hop-on-hop-off bus will also be introduced in the capital city by the tourism department enabling the tourists to go around the city with a single ticket.

The government will also provide incentives to the partners of international trade fair and airline-tour packages with major domestic airlines will be introduced to promote domestic tourism. Kerala Tourism will also brand and design new set of Kerala souvenirs and market it to the tourists with the support of Kudumbashree units.

Visit Kerala 2015 will also take efforts to revamp information and product brochures of Kerala Tourism.

Mr. G Kamala Vardhana Rao IAS, Kerala Tourism Secretary; Mr. P I Sheik Pareeth IAS, Kerala Tourism Director and Mrs. Anupama TV IAS, Additional Director (General) were also present at the conference.

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Appointment

M

r. Noor Azman Bin Samsudin has been appointed as Director for Tourism Malaysia, Chennai effective on 22 December 2014. With a wealth of experience in Malaysia Tourism Promotion Board, Mr. Noor Azman Bin Samsudin has an accomplished career spanning 20 years having worked at Kota Kinabalu- Sabah, Putrajaya, and later in Indonesia overseeing the operations at Tourism Malaysia, Medan.

E

tihad Airways has appointed Ms. Linda Celestino as the airline’s Vice President Guest Services. Ms Celestino has more than 25 years’ experience in the airline industry having held senior positions in her native Australia and the Middle East, as well as being President of the New Yorkbased Airline Passenger Experience Association.

Most recently, Ms Celestino was General Manager Inflight Services and Product at Oman Air where she was responsible for cabin crew selection and training, as well as the guest experience.

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s. Nittaya Lokesh has been appointed the Director of Spa and Fitness at The Ritz-Carlton Spa Bangalore. In this position, she will manage and lead the operational, strategic and financial performance of the 17,000 square-foot spa located on Level 5 of the hotel.

Ms. Lokesh has over 14 years of experience in the spa and hospitality industry and has worked in India and Thailand. A Certified Spa Manager by the Ministry of Public Health - Thailand, she was associated with global chains like the Banyan Tree, Oberoi Hotels and more recently with the Accor group and ITC Hotels, prior to joining The Ritz-Carlton, Bangalore.

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r. Rahul Joshi has been appointed General Manager for Hilton Jaipur, the upscale, full service hotel located in the heart of Jaipur in Rajasthan. In this position, Mr. Joshi will report to Mr. Daniel Welk, Vice President, Operations - India.

Mr. Joshi brings over two decades of experience in the hospitality sector. Most recently, Mr. Joshi was General Manager for Holiday Inn Pune Hinjewadi. Prior to that, he has held General Manager positions at Radisson Blu Agra Taj East Gate; The Park Turon, Tashkent, Uzbekistan, and Country Inn & Suites By Carlson, Goa. Mr. Joshi holds a post graduate diploma in Marketing Management from Himachal Pradesh University.

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r. Anmol Pancholy has been appointed as the Director of Sales of Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre (NHCC) and Hyderabad International Convention Centre (HICC) announced the appointment of Mr. Anmol Pancholy as the Director of Sales.

In his current role as Director of Sales, Mr Pancholy will be leading the corporate sale and will be focusing on increasing the business for the property.

Prior to joining Accor Group, he was working with Taj Hotels & his last assignment was as head of Sales at Taj Falaknuma Palace Hyderabad. Mr. Pancholy holds a Master’s degree in Business Administration from Institute of Marketing Management.

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nterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) has launched its first Holiday Inn Express in Hyderabad, a city known historically as a pearl trading centre. Holiday Inn Express & Suites Hyderabad Gachibowli is located in the heart of the city’s IT and financial district and close to Hitech City as well as the HITEX Exhibition Centre, making it the smart choice for business travellers. Holiday Inn Express & Suites Hyderabad Gachibowli is the third Holiday Inn Express in India.

The hotel was officially inaugurated by Mr. Shantha de Silva, Head of South West Asia, IHG 24

and Mr. Naveen Jain, President, Duet India Hotels. The 232-room hotel includes 39 suites comprising of 30 Junior Suites with large living and bedroom areas and 9 Executive Suites, with separate living and bedroom areas. Guests

The hotel was officially inaugurated by Mr. Shantha de Silva, Head of South West Asia, IHG and Mr. Naveen Jain, President, Duet India Hotels.

of Holiday Inn Express & Suites Hyderabad Gachibowli can look forward to Free and fast Wi-Fi available in guest rooms and throughout the hotel to help guests stay connected all day, every day The Hotel offers Free Express Start™ Breakfast for an energizing start to the day or a Grab & Go breakfast option for a quick start, A comfortable and restful sleep with high quality bedding and a choice of firm or soft pillows ,Refreshing power showers with a three-function massage showerhead , Self-service business center and a 24 hour laundry service, 24-hour access to the fitness room In addition to the Express Start breakfast, Holiday Inn Express & Suites in Hyderabad Gachibowli also has an all-day dining restaurant, Jonathan’s Kitchen, serving Italian inspired international cuisine with added options of Indian and oriental dishes for lunch and dinner. The hotel also has a Lounge Bar, Komatose, poised to be one of the most engaging bars in the city. Warm and cold snacks and a variety of drinks are also available in the Great Room 24 hours a day.

To cater to business travelers on the go, the hotel also offers a selfservice business centre, three meeting rooms and

a 24-hour fitness centre.

The hotel is a 25-minute drive from Hyderabad International Airport and close totourist attractions like Golconda Fort, QutbShahi Tombs, Gachibowli Indoor Stadiumand the beautiful KotlaVijayabhaskara Reddy Botanical Garden.

At the launch of Holiday Inn Express & Suites Hyderabad Gachibowli, Naveen Jain, President, Duet India Hotels commented: “Hyderabad is a city which is not only rich with history and culture but which also has seen major growth as a software hub, especially in the precincts of Gachibowli. The hotel being located close to some of the top IT firms and banking institutions and having an excellent access from the airport, we’re confident that the hotel will cater to the growing number of inbound business travellers in the city.”

Mr. Shantha de Silva, Head of South West Asia, IHG said:“With the opening of this hotel, Holiday Inn Express is now in three of India’s up-and-coming cities including Ahmedabad and Chennai - bringing a refreshing new option to travellers in the country. With free and fast Wi-Fi and free breakfast on offer at every Holiday Inn Express hotel, it’s the perfect hotel brand for busy travellers on the go, whether they are travelling for business or leisure.

With the added option of its contemporary and efficient

India welcomed its first Holiday Inn Express hotel in 2012, Holiday Inn Express Ahmedabad and its second hotel, Holiday Inn Express Chennai in 2013. suites, this hotel is also a great option for travellers staying for extended periods.”

Holiday Inn Express is the smart choice for savvy travellers, offering its guests the reliability and quality of a global hotel brand at a competitive price. Holiday Inn Expressis one of the world’s fastest growing hotel brands with nearly 2,300hotels worldwide since its launch in 1991.

India welcomed its first Holiday Inn Express hotel in 2012, Holiday Inn Express Ahmedabad and its second hotel, Holiday Inn Express Chennai in 2013.

There are a further16 Holiday Inn Express hotels due to open in India over the next three to five years.

There is a special opening rate for guests from INR 4,299++ per night for bookings from now until 28thFebruary 2015. www.holidayinnexpress.com.

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Talent Shortage: at Risk in

14M Jobs

Travel & Tourism Travel & Tourism currently sustains 266 million jobs, once the indirect and induced impacts are taken into consideration, a figure projected to rise to 347 million by 2024. Similarly, the industry contributed nearly $7 trillion to the global economy in 2014

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ver 14 million jobs globally are at risk in the Travel & Tourism industry; Governments and private sector companies should find some remedial measure to nullify its effects on international economy.

Research conducted for the World Travel & Tourism Council by Ox-

ford Economics shows that the industry could employ 14m fewer people and contribute $610 billion less in GDP to the world economy over the next ten years, when compared to accepted growth forecasts, if Government and private companies fail to implement policies which promote proactive and careful talent management.

Travel & Tourism currently sustains 266 million jobs, once the indirect and induced impacts are taken into consideration, a figure projected to rise to 347 million by 2024. Similarly, the industry contributed nearly $7 trillion to the global economy in 2014; which is forecast to rise to $11 trillion by 2024.

The research, for the first time, quantifies the sheer scale of the human resource challenge in

Travel & Tourism and the potential impact of the skill shortage on the 2024 projections, which are the equivalent of lowering the level of global total Travel & tourism employment by 4% compared to the baseline projected level in 2024.

This research warns of serious potential economic cost over the next ten years. The total impact of talent gaps and deficiencies, including indirect and induced impacts, could cost the global economy approximately 14 million jobs and nearly US$610 billion in GDP (measured in 2013 prices and exchange rates). This jobs figure is 4% lower than the baseline projected levels of employment in 2024.

The research also

underlines that Travel & Tourism’s human capital challenges are significantly higher than those faced in other sectors, with 37 out of 46 countries showing a talent ‘deficit’ or ‘shortage’ in the industry over the next ten years, compared with only 6 out of 46 for the economy overall.

David Scowsill, WTTC President & CEO, explained the importance of the report’s findings: “Travel & Tourism is one of the world’s largest economic sectors. It drives jobs and economic growth; well-being and prosperity. It creates jobs at different skills levels for often-marginalized sectors of society, such as young people and women, and in areas where other employment

opportunities are scarce.

Failure to plan properly for talent requirements leads to lower growth, reduced investment, less innovation and declining competitiveness – for both countries and companies.

“We are a people industry which depends on quality people to deliver a quality product to our customers. I urge anyone with an interest in our great industry to act now to address the anticipated talent shortage. We need the right policies, programs and partnerships in place, to ensure that the workforce of the future knows about the opportunities in our sector, and has the appropriate skills and knowledge to support future growth.”

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Dr

Mahesh Sharma, Union Minister of State for Tourism & Culture has said that the coordination between tourism and airlines industries is crucial for promoting tourism in the country. He said that Government believes in bringing all stakeholders together to discuss how the air transport industry can best contribute to the development of tourism. He was speaking at an “Interaction between Tourism and Airlines” organized by the Ministry of Tourism and Ministry of Civil Aviation in association with Federation of Association in Indian Tourism and Hospitality (FAITH) here today. The Minister informed that the Government has set up an agenda of 25 actionable points for the year 2015 to promote tourism.

Dr. Sharma said that the implementation of Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) enabled Visa on Arrival, for 43 countries, is showing excellent results and the Government is hopeful that this facility will be extended to all remaining countries in the near future. He informed that as on 21 January 2015, (less than 2 months from the launch of this facility) 41,114 TVOAs have been issued. Expressing happiness over positive growth of both international and domestic tourism, he said Foreign Tourist Arrivals (FTAs) during 2014 were 74.62 lakh with a growth of 7.1% as compared to the 28

FTAs of 69.68 lakh in 2013.

The Minister underlined that the true potential of the country is much more. A target of increasing the tourist arrivals to 10 million in near future has been setup.

Dr. Sharma said that the airlines sector is an important part of the supply chain for “Make in India” in Tourism sector. He said over 90 percent international tourists arrive in India by air. The Minister added that the growth of aviation depends on good commercial decisions, and on the quality and capacity of India’s airports, and the other highly visible infrastructure associated with aviation.

The delegates from airlines and tourism industries deliberated on various issues concerning promotion of tourism and increasing connectivity. The issues raised included better airport infrastructure, security measures including women’s safety, increasing immigration counters, cleanliness, e-visa facility etc.

Dr. Sharma assured that whatever issues were discussed during the interaction will be addressed within a definite time frame.

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n order to ensure safety and security of tourists, including foreign tourists, the Union Ministry of Tourism has advised all the State Governments/Union Territory Administrations to deploy Tourist Police in the States /Union Territories. The State Governments of Andhra Pradesh, Goa, Karnataka, Kerala, Maharashtra, Himachal Pradesh, Rajasthan, Jammu and Kashmir, Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, Punjab, Madhya Pradesh and Odisha have deployed Tourist Police in one form or the other.

In order to ensure safety and security of tourists, including foreign tourists, the Ministry of Tourism has taken following steps like set up the ‘Incredible India Help Line’ to guide the tourists and Grant of Central Financial Assistance to Government of Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh and Andhra Pradesh for setting up of Tourist Facilitation and Security Organisation (TFSO) on a pilot basis.

Adoption of code of conduct for Safe and Hon’ble Tourism, which

contains a set of guidelines to encourage tourism activities to be undertaken with respect to basic rights like dignity, safety and freedom from exploitation of both tourists and local residents, in particular women and children.

All the Chief Ministers of the State Governments and Administrators of Union Territory Administrations have been asked to take immediate effective steps for ensuring a conducive and friendly environment for all tourists and also request them to publicize the steps being taken/proposed to be taken to increase the sense of security amongst the present/prospective visitors and also to counter the negative publicity, if any. In the wake of some unfortunate incidents involving foreign tourists, Ministry of Tourism has also posted an advisory on its website www.incredibleindia.org. Guidelines on Safety & Security of Tourist

for State Governments/ Union Territories and Tips for Travellers have been formulated in August 2014 and circulated to all State Governments and Union Territories. These guidelines have been issued with an objective to help/provide direction to the State Governments and Union Territory Administrations in formulating guidelines for tourists safety and security. The guidelines also includes ‘tips for travelers’ which includes Precautions to be taken during pre-travel arrangements, Travel information on calamities/situations by the State Government, Identifying, locating tourists in times of emergency, Government communication and inter agency coordination, Regulations of service providers (Transport Services, Accommodation Sector), Regulating leisure and recreational services including adventure sports.

Address insolvencies and dispute settlement and Enforcement.

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“We see great potential in this conference to position Israel as an attractive tourism destination for the Indian tourist – similar to the way in which Israelis see India as an important tourism destination,” Tourism Minister Uzi Landau said.

The trip has helped ease worries about the conflict, according to participants.

“It is a very important factor in the mind of the travelers from India. Even the travel agents had a different concept of Israel, whether it’s safe to travel or not,” TAFI president Zakkir Ahmed said.

“The only way to clear

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ndia and Israel came together in Jerusalem for their annual conference. to talk tourism with 600 travel agents from the Asian subcontinent.

Since 71 percent of India’s outgoing tourists base their travel decisions on the recommendations of travel agents, Travel Agents Federation of India conference is influential to mark the destination of each year.

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their mind was to come here and actually see it.

Now when we go back, I think they will have a different outlook of Israel. I don’t think they’ll look at it as a place of conflict,” he added.

Israel opened a Government Tourism Office in Mumbai two years ago, and hopes to nearly triple the number of Indian tourists to Israel, from 34,900 in 2014 to 100,000

by 2017.

Indian outgoing tourism grew 13 percent from 2012 to 2013, according to the World Travel Organization, and numbers are expected to reach 50 million by 2050, up from 12.5 million in 2010. But violent outbursts do affect tourism, which saw almost 40,000 Indians visit Israel before Operation Protective Edge moderated it last year.

Aside from the conflict, say tourism officials, there are other issues Israel needs to address to make Indian tourists feel as welcome as Israeli backpackers do on the beaches of Goa. “There should be more air connectivity,” said Ahmed; El Al only operates three flights a week to Mumbai, and none to New Delhi.

He also suggested that the visa process could be simplified, restrictions lifted, and applications put online.

Mr. Hassan Madah, who heads Israel’s tourism office in Mumbai, said that Israel was working on these issues and was trying to lower the threshold for group visas from ten to five. Another issue is cultural, Jain vegetarians do not eat root vegetables or onions, so they would have difficulty in Israel even in places that serve vegetarian or vegan options. added Madah.

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n the ‘Land of the Kings’ synonymous for Kalimpong, Sinclair launches its luxury resort which is spread over five acres of landscaped green. The resort does justice to the awe-inspiring natural beauty of the hill station with many wonders of nature. The resort overlooks the Himalayas and a forested valley, making it an ideal retreat for tourists and hosting business meetings without distractions.

It has a total of 48 rooms and suites that are a fine statement of luxury and comfort. The rooms have a traditional fireplace, private balcony and garden. The Resort has fully equipped banquets and conference halls, fitness center, spa, swimming pool and a reading lounge. The multi cuisine restaurant, coffee

shop and Spanish bar will more than take care of food and drinks fancies of guests.

With the opening of the Kalimpong property, Sinclairs Hotels is the largest player in hospitality industry in North Bengal. Sinclairs offers the best of North Bengal to tourists with its properties in Siliguri, Darjeeling, Dooars and now Kalimpong.

Of late West Bengal has been keen to project Kalimpong as a second hill destination in the state. Till recently, a constraint of travellers visiting the tranquil Kalimpong known for its natural beauty was the lack of quality accommodation. Now with the opening of Sinclairs property, Kalimpong can boast of international standard rooms and facilities.

High quality banquet and conference facilities have started attracting well known corporate houses and institutions to hold their off site and other residential meetings in Kalimpong. Spacious banquets and well designed gardens make the property an ideal location for destination wedding.

Sinclairs Hotels Ltd. has announced excellent results for the quarter ended 31st December 2014. The Total Income from Operations was up by 31% to Rs.831 lakhs (Rs.632 lakhs) while Profit before Tax and Exceptional Items for the quarter was up by 130% to Rs.259 lakhs (Rs.112 lakhs). With seven operational properties in the next financial year, Sinclairs Hotels expects substantial growth in its top line as well as bottom line.

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ommenting upon the statement given by Mr. Om Prakash Singh, Hon’ble Tourism Minister of Uttar Pradesh, Dr. Mahesh Sharma Union Tourism Minister has observed that Government of India has not stopped any release of Central Financial Assistance to the Government of Uttar Pradesh for development of tourism infrastructure in Uttar Pradesh.

The Union Tourism Minister has emphasized that the Uttar Pradesh Government did not submit utilization certificates in time to Government of India which has resulted in not processing the proposals for release of funds because submission of all pending utilization certificates is a pre-condition for release of Central Financial Assistance as per GFRs of Ministry of Finance, Government of India.

Quoting figures , the Union Tourism Minister

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said that in the year 201213, 12 projects were sanctioned with an amount of Rs. 34.86 crores and Rs. 20.12 crores has been released. Similarly, in the year 2013-14, 26 projects were sanctioned for Rs. 130.71 crores out of which Rs. 21.64 crores have been released.

Despite repeated reminders sent to Government of Uttar Pradesh and review meetings, Uttar Pradesh Government did not submit Utilization certificates in time and wasted eight months of the current financial year in submitting the pending utilization certificates, which have been submitted as late as in the month of November, 2014.

Government of Uttar Pradesh submitted the utilization certificates in November, 2014 and immediately upon receipt of the utilization certificates and based on the projects prioritized and submitted

by Government of Uttar Pradesh, the Ministry of Tourism processed pending proposals for sanction and the amount of Rs.4.22 crores has been released till date.

Further clarifying, Union Tourism Minister pointed out that the Government of Uttar Pradesh has surrendered Rs.3.83 crores as unutilized amount during the current financial year because of non-completion and non-utilization of funds of the projects earlier sanctioned by Government of India.

Union Tourism Minister further clarified that Government of India, Ministry of Tourism accords high priority to development of tourism infrastructure in all States and Union Territories including Uttar Pradesh and in respect of the projects submitted by the Uttar Pradesh State Government, sanctions are being issued and funds released based on submission of all pending utilization certificates, adhering to the scheme guidelines. Union Tourism Minister regretted the unfortunate use of unparliamentary language by the Hon’ble Tourism Minister of Uttar Pradesh.

The awards aim at giving recognition for academic excellence in hospitality education.

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he National awards for Excellence in Hospitality Education 2012-13 were given away by Dr Mahesh Sharma the Minister of State for Tourism (Independent charge), Culture (Independent charge) and Civil Aviation. Congratulating the award winners, the Minister lauded the efforts of students, their teachers and Institutes for their outstanding skills in the field of hospitality. Dr Sharma appreciated the award winners by calling them ambassadors of

Indian culture since Indian culture is world famous for its ‘hospitality’. Dr Sharma said that hospitality is the strength of the tourism sector and the education given to the students will become the backbone of the country in this sector.

The awards aim at giving recognition for academic excellence in hospitality education. The awards are given by the Ministry of Tourism and National Council for Hotel Management & Catering Technology (NCHMCT) every year.

The awards were given in four categories including those to individual students for excellence in Academic performance, Best Teachers Awards, Best Institute Award, and Special Awards.

Mr. Girish Shankar, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Tourism and Mrs. Usha Sharma, Additional Director General, Ministry of Tourism; and other senior officials were also present on the occasion.

Special Awards: 1) Best State/UT/Tourism Corporation for taking initiative under HSR – Madhya Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation 2) Best Hotel undertaking skill development in the hospitality sector – Hotel Jaipur Ashok

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he Union Ministry of Tourism has sanctioned a total Central Financial Assistance (CFA) of Rs. 10781.01 lakh to the State Government of Rajasthan for development of Tourism infrastructure in the State during the period 2009-14.

An amount of Rs. 5174.71 lakh was sanctioned during the year 201314.

Development of Tourism is primarily undertaken by State Governments/UT Administrations. However, Ministry of Tourism provides Central Financial Assistance (CFA) for projects which are prioritized in consultation with them. The projects which are complete as per scheme guidelines are sanctioned subject to availability of funds, inter-se-priority and utilization of funds released earlier.

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nstitutes will help generate employment, promote Indian culture and culinary art Dr Mahesh Sharma Dr Mahesh Sharma, Union Minister of State for Tourism & Culture laid the foundation stones of campus buildings of National Museum Institute of History of Art, Conservation and Museology (NMI) and Indian Culinary Institute (ICI) in Noida recently. While NMI belongs to the Ministry of Culture, ICI is an Institute of the Ministry of Tourism.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr Mahesh Sharma said that both these projects were languishing for more than a decade but the hard work of both the Ministries has made it possible to start the process of construction within a short time. He said that these Institutes will help train the youth to find new avenues of employment within the country as well as abroad. They will also go a long way in promoting the culture and culinary art of India, he added. The Minister explained that with the tourism sector expected to witness exponential growth, this sector would require matching trained manpower to manage the infrastructure and services, which these two institutes seek to do.

The Minister disclosed that it will be possible

to start the first session of ICI by 2017 and the Institute will also have collaboration with its foreign counterparts.

The Culture Secretary, Mr Ravindra Singh said that the NMI is celebrating its silver jubilee and there is no other institute in the country apart from NMI which is training youth in the area of conserving art and cultural heritage. A permanent campus with world class facilities will help train the youth to set up world class museums along the lines of British Museum or MusĂŠe du Louvre which will further promote tourism in the country.

The Tourism Secretary said that setting up of both the Institutes simultaneously and in close proximity to each other

will be highly beneficial since tourism is incomplete without culture.

Indian cuisine is highly appreciated all over the world and ICI will try to train youth who will match up to international standards and have global demand, he said.

The ICI will offer programs in kitchen management, molecular gastronomy, plate presentation, food styling and displays, anthropology, etc. Besides documentation and research of regional and global cuisines, the institute would comprise a patent and legal cell and a museum of traditional foods. While the project cost of NMI is Rs 90 cr , that of ICI is Rs 70 cr. The Institutes are expected to be completed within two years.

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Procedure for Registration of Yatris for

Shri AmarnathYatra, 2015

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his year’s Shri AmarnathjiYatra will commence on 2nd July, 2015, via both the routes Baltal and Pahalgam, and conclude on 29th august, 2015. Registration is necessary for the Yatris .

Nobody shall be allowed to undertake the Yatra without Yatra Permit which is valid for the days and route in question. A Yatri can secure his/her Yatra Permit via selected Bank Branches (87 of J&K

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Bank, 305 of Punjab National bank and 38 of YES Bank) located in various States/UTs. The addresses of the selected Bank Branches, for providing Registration are available at Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board’s website: www. shriamarnathjishrine.com.

The Registration for the Yatra 2015, via selected Bank Branches, will commence from 1st March, 2015. For Registration/ obtaining a Yatra Permit through a designated Bank, an intending Yatri shall have to submit filled in prescribed Application Form and Compulsory Health Certificate issued by the Authorised Doctor/ Reputed Private medical Institution. The Statewise lists of Doctors/ reputed private Medical Institutions authorized to issue the prescribed Compulsory Health Certificate are available at Shri

Amarnathji Shrine Board’s website. The formats of the application Form and Compulsory Health Certificate are also available at Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board’s website. For Yatra 2015, Compulsory Health Certificate issued only after 10th February, 2015, would be valid for the registration purposes..

An intending Yatri will be required to pay Rs. 50/- as Registration fee, for registration through a designated Bank. A Yatri who travels by Helicopter will not be required to separately register for the Yatra. A Yatri who travels

by Helicopter will, however, be required to submit the prescribed Compulsory Health Certificate at the time of boarding the Helicopter. A Yatri should embark on his/her Yatra only on the day and from the route for which he/ she is registered. A group of five or more Yatris can also register themselves through the Group Registration Facility.The procedure to register through Group Registration Facility is available on shrine board’s website

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N General Assembly: Sustainable tourism is a tool for poverty reduction and environmental protection A milestone resolution recognizing the contribution of sustainable tourism to poverty eradication, community development and the protection of biodiversity has been adopted by consensus by the United Nations General Assembly.

Emphasizing the need to optimize the economic, social, cultural and environmental benefits stemming from sustainable tourism, particularly in developing countries, the resolution entitled “Promotion of sustainable tourism, including ecotourism, for poverty eradication and environment protection” calls upon the UN System to promote sustainable tourism as an instrument that can contribute to achieving the Millennium Development Goals.

The resolution, significantly broader in scope than previous ones on the

subject, builds on a 2012 UN resolution on ecotourism and draws on a report prepared by UNWTO. In line with UNWTO recommendations, it underlines the importance of appropriate national policies, guidelines and regulations for promoting sustainable tourism, including ecotourism, and encourages UN Member States and regional and international financial institutions to support sustainable tourism projects, enabling the creation of small and medium-sized enterprises, promoting cooperatives and facilitating access to inclusive financial services, including microcredit initiatives for the poor, local and indigenous communities.

The resolution was adopted by consensus and sponsored by an impressive total number of 107 Member States, including Morocco, which, as on previous occasions, was the lead sponsor and in that capacity had steered the whole negotiating process to a suc-

cessful conclusion.

“UNWTO welcomes this remarkable acknowledgement of tourism’s ability to advance sustainable development across the world”, said UNWTO Secretary-General Taleb Rifai. “The wide-ranging support to this resolution mirrors the increasing awareness of the vital role tourism plays in a sustainable future for all and opens the doors for supportive national policies and international financing for sustainable tourism.”

The resolution places sustainable tourism firmly on the UN post-2015 agenda as it requests UNWTO and other United Nations agencies to develop “… recommendations on ways and means to promote sustainable tourism, including ecotourism, as a tool for fighting poverty and promoting sustainable development …” to be submitted to the seventy-first session of the UN General Assembly in 2016.

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ISIT FLORIDA recently concluded it’s much sought after Sunshine Contest which welcomed entries from India’s leading travel agents and tour operators such as Cox & Kings, Akbar Travels, Make My Trip, and others.

Based on the judging criteria, Ms. Vyoma Bhatt from Aspen Vacations and Ms. Aarti Nagadiya from Balmer Lawrie & Co. Ltd. emerged as winners of the contest, and were awarded with the title of “Florida Super Specialist”.

The winners were scheduled to travel to Florida on an all expense paid trip from January 14 to 23, 2015, which will cover

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parts of the state including Fort Lauderdale, Tampa Bay and Orlando.

Through this contest, VISIT FLORIDA was able to further strengthen its network within the travel trade industry.

There were 250+ registrations for its Online Specialist Program and more than 30 completed entries. The contest led to a surge in the number of followers on the VISIT FLORIDA India Facebook page. The likes on the India Facebook page increased by more than 25%.

Speaking on the occasion Ms. Seldon Tenzing, Account Director India,

VISIT FLORIDA said, “The objective of the contest was to encourage travel agents to learn more about the destination.

We are very happy with the contest entries that we received, as well as the fantastic number of registrations we received for the VISIT FLORIDA specialist program.

We would like to thank all of our travel friends for their enthusiasm and support.”

Due to the prodigious response garnered from the TA’s / TO’s, the tourism board is keen to host more such contests of similar magnitude in the coming months.

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s. Kobkarn Wattanavrangkul, Minister for Tourism & Sports, Thailand visited in Mumbai to promote tourism and trade between India and Thailand India is one of Thailand most significant markets, standing at rank 1 in South Asia and rank 6 globally. In order to maintain and increase loyalty from travel agents consequently notch up tourist numbers, Ms. Kobkarn Wattanavrangkul, Minister for Tourism & Sports, Thailand is in India to engage travel agents, trade leaders and media in dialogue. Organised by the Thai Ministry of Commerce, in collaboration with the Tourism Authority of Thailand – Mumbai Office and the Royal Thai

Consulate-General in Mumbai, her visit, titled the Thai Trade Investment and Tourism Roadshow took place on 25 February 2015. Ms. Kobkarn Wattanavrangkul, Minister for Tourism & Sports, Thailand said, “India has remained Thailand’s most loyal market through the years.

It is our biggest market in South Asia and one of our fastestgrowing source markets globally. Our stakeholders say that January and February’s numbers are already looking strong and higher than last year. I think we are on track to achieve over a million arrivals by the end of the year.”

The Minister also officially launched the Discover Thainess campaign in India. 2015 has 39

been earmarked The Year of Thainess by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) in January this year and promotions are underway. The Minister’s visit to India is aimed at lending wings to the new tagline and corresponding strategy in the high-potential/ high-delivery Indian market. H.E. added, “It is my pleasure to expand our global marketing campaign to India and officially launch it here. I urge you to discover the 12 hidden gems or unknown regions of Thailand, to participate in the festivals and events charted out for each month of the year and to indulge in all the experiences that form the pillars of Thainess ie Thai Food, Thai Arts, Thai Way of Life, Thai Wellness, Thai Festivals, Thai Wisdom and Thai Fun.” Ms Soraya Homchuen, director, Tourism Authority of Thailand – Mumbai

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The Minister’s visit to India is aimed at lending wings to the new tagline and corresponding strategy in the high-potential/ high-delivery Indian market.

Office says, “I am sure that the Minister’s official stamp to the Discover Thainess campaign will add steam to our efforts to promote authentic Thai experiences in India through creative means that we will employ in the months ahead.”

The Minister has also shared that Thailand is upgrading its tourist infrastructure. “A few tourist courts are already in place and we will have 15 by the end of year. Tourist Police have now been deployed at most popular

tourist locations in Thailand. Additionally we have a few new products: The Cartoon Network Amazone in Pattaya is already a big hit. Families should also visit the brand new Scenical World near Khao Yai. Development of an attraction by Safari World is underway in Phuket and should be completed next year.” All the new attractions are expected to be popular among Indian families.

India contributed nearly a million tourists during 2014, which many tourism experts and speculators say is a great achievement. The Minister revealed that 2015’s target is 1,050,000 arrivals. “India is among Thailand’s top markets alongside China, Malaysia, Russia, Japan and Korea all of which contribute a million arrivals to Thailand’s incoming tourist numbers annually. We received 946,269 Indians last year.”

Indian leisure travellers initially chose Bangkok and Pattaya only but with a large chunk (about 60%) consisting of repeat visitors, popularity for Phuket, Chiang Mai, Samui, Chiang Rai, Krabi and Ayutthaya is brimming. The more experienced travellers are also heading to Kanchanaburi, Rayong, Ko Tao and Ko Chang. Shopping, sightseeing and nightlife for at

least one day in Bangkok are integral to all itineraries but for the rest of the vacation, Indians – particularly those who are returning after countless prior vacations – are looking for something unique and this is where Thainess will meet market aspirations.

Other encouraging trends include a marked rise in the number of Indian film-makers, MICE, destination weddings, honeymooners, seniors and special interest groups like golfers, divers and bikers; increasing average length of stay and average spend and a shift in market mix in favor of FIT and higher yield travelers.

Underlining the significance of the Thainess campaign, Minister Wattanavrangkul said: “Thainess has appeal across segments. For example, history of wellness and wealth of meditation sanctuaries have potential for leisure travellers as well as those specifically seeking rejuvenation. Muay Thai is popular among youth and is also becoming trendy among women as a fitness regimen. Our gastronomy is world-renowned and goes beyond the street food that most are familiar with. Some more adventurous couples looking for a different style of wedding might want to

opt for a Lanna style wedding.”

The ’12 hidden Gems’ of the Thainess campaign include serene Lampang; Phetchabun with its mistshrouded mountains of flowers, Nan; the most romantic province in Thailand, Buriram where ancient Khmer and modern Thai civilisations meet; Loei to revel in the mountains; Samut Songkhram to witness the glory of mighty rivers; arts capital Ratchaburi; the islands of dreams, Trat; the fruit capital, Chanthaburi; all things exotic (even underwater weddings!) in Trang; untouched emerald isles in Chumphon and unspoiled nature combined with distinct religiousness in Nakhon Si Thammarat.

The calendar of events spans all 12 months.

Coming soon, March (14-17, Ayutthaya Historical Park) will see a Muay Thai festival. April (1015, nationwide) will see the country come alive to celebrate Songkran ie

India contributed nearly a million tourists during 2014, which many tourism experts and speculators say is a great achievement.

Thai New Year and May (22-23, in Phetchaburi) will treat visitors to the Thailand Music Festival.

June marks the start of the Thailand Grand Sale which will last until 15 August, July (17-18, Chiang Mai) beckons lovers of all things fine for the ASEAN Music and Arts and in August (14-16, in Bangkok), and a ‘Queen of Silk’ festival (one of the Queen’s brainchildren for uplifting key arts). September beckons all food-lovers with the Thailand International Food Festival (1820 September), October (24-26, in northern Thailand) will be all thrills for road-trippers and bikers at the Thailand Time Trial, on 25 November Thailand turns ethereal as Loy Krathong is celebrated nationwide and in December In Royal Melody will showcase the beautiful compositions of HM King Bhumibol Adulyadej, who is also an accomplished musician.

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aiwan Tourism Bureau is all set to take on the market with fresh marketing and sales initiatives in tandem with a collaborative spirit of PR and

Asia’s heart and Taiwan’s warmth are what Taiwan Tourism offers to the traveller.

Taiwan’s a fusion of

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media activities.

Asia’s heart and Taiwan’s warmth are what Taiwan Tourism offers to the traveller. Taiwan’s a fusion of tradition with new trends, unity with diversity and offers travelers great food, culture, night markets combined with an extremely safe travelling experience. Its special characteristics and diversity present what is precisely a microcosm of Asia. It has an immensely rich cultural and spiritual heritage, amazing food, world-class hot-springs and stunning scenery.

“Taiwan – The Heart of Asia” has voted ‘Best Value Destination’ for 2015 by Lonely Planet as

well.

The Taiwan Tourism Bureau held a 4-city Roadshow for the travel agent and media fraternity in New Delhi on 28th Jan, Kolkata on 31st Jan, Chennai on 2nd Feb and Mumbai on 3rd Feb. A sizeable contingent of the Taiwanese Delegation comprising of senior members drawn from various organizations: Taiwan Tourism Bureau’s Singapore Office, China Airlines, Cathay Pacific, Edison Tours, Good Time Vacations, Taiwan Theme Park Association, Formosan Aborginal Cultural Village, Atayal Resort, Atami Hotels who conducted B2B sessions and

interacted with guests in each city.

The event kicked off with a B2B session followed by the opening ceremony that was marked by a stunning drumming and dance performance

by Zero Nine, a specialty troupe that was specially flown down. Arthur Hsieh, Director, Taiwan Tourism Bureau, Singapore Office welcomed the invited guests at each event; he said: “We are looking forward to potentially gaining advantage by utilizing our presence amongst travel trade consumers, media and also using modern strategies and technologies to reach out to the target market. Dig-

ital marketing, information and communication will become the cornerstone of Taiwan Tourism

in particular and the tourism industry in general in the coming year.”

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Asia’s heart and Taiwan’s warmth are what Taiwan Tourism offers to the traveller. Taiwan’s a fusion of

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ourism Malaysia has launched Malaysia Year of Festivals (MYFest) 2015 with the theme ‘Endless Celebrations’ with much fan fare to showcase and celebrate the country’s bountiful and diverse cultures and festivities as a tourist attraction. With the Proboscis Monkey as the mascot, the MyFest 2015 campaign will continue to boost the tourism sector and ensure that the Malaysian tourism industry remains robust after the Visit Malaysia Year 2014 campaign.

Dato Seri Mohamed Nazri Aziz, Minister of Tourism and Culture of Malaysia was in Mumbai along with industry part44

ners to raise awareness about the attractions of MYFest 2015 and addressed the media at Taj Mahal hotel, Mumbai. He was accompanied by the Malaysian Sales Mission delegation, officials from the Ministry of Tourism and Culture, State representatives and members of the travel trade fraternity. While the primary

Malaysia’s tourism sector continued to be a significant contributor to the country’s economy in 2014.

objective of the visits to strengthen Malaysia’s standing as a dream travel destination and increase tourist arrivals from India, the honorable minister is also looking forward to driving strong support from both the Indian media, travel trade and airlines fraternity for the ongoing MYFest 2015.

“This magnificent country has always been an important market for Malaysia. It has consistently been one of the top 10 tourist generating markets to the country, and has continuously made significant contributions to our tourist arrivals and tourist receipts,” said Dato Seri Mohamed

Abdul Aziz.

Until October 2014, Malaysia has registered 6,43,335 Indian tourists, which is a 20.7%, increase for the same period last year (5,32,964).

With the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) predicting India to be the third fastest generator of travel and tourism demand from 2010 – 2019 with an annualised growth of 8.2%, promotions to the Indian tourists is high on the agenda said the visiting minister.

“In MyFEST 2015, the year-long calendar is packed with festivities of every genre; for instance cultural festivals, shopping extravanganzas, international acclaimed events, eco-tourism events, arts, music showcases, food promotion and other themed events.

With 165 direct flights from various destinations in India per week, travel to Malaysia has become very convenient and the Malaysian delegation is expecting to welcome close to 800,000 Indian guests this year, ” informed Mr Manoharan Periasamy, Director General Tourism Malaysia.

During the Sales Mission in Mumbai, Tourism Malaysia will also organise a travel mart for the travel trade players to meet and network. This is a platform to show-

case Malaysia’s diverse tourism offerings and highlight the scope for collaboration between travel agents in Malaysia and India.

The Sales Mission also aims to strengthen the presence of Malaysia in the South Asian market, and to keep India’s travel trade, media and corporate sector updated on the current issues and tourism development in Malaysia, especially during the MYFest campaign.

Malaysia’s tourism sector continued to be a significant contributor to the country’s economy

in 2014. Tourist arrivals grew by 9.6% to 22.8 million compared to 20.8 million or the same period in 2013. MYFest 2015 is expected to see around 29.4 million tourists visiting the country and generating receipts up to RM89 billion.

Launch of Smart-I App was another highlight of the event. You can download the App for most amazing travel and tourism deals in Malaysia be it for shopping, sightseeing, dining, entertainment. You can download on Google Play or App Store.

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The evening witnessed presence of over 70 corporates that included guests from TATA Communications, HDFC Bank, Aditya Birla Group, Glenmark and many more of India’s top notch companies.

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ourism Toronto recently hosted some of India’s leading companies to an exciting evening of cocktails and dinner. Gracing the occasion was Mr. Mark Crawford- Director,

International Business Development, Tourism Toronto who was participating in a sales mission to India for the first time.

The event provided an excellent opportunity for Mr. Mark Crawford to not only greet the Indian MICE market but also provide indepth insights on product offering.

Tourism Toronto collaborated with Jet Airways and Starwood Hotels and Resorts who in turn invited some of their

prestigious corporate clients to meet Mr. Mark Crawford. The evening witnessed presence of over 70 corporates that included guests from TATA Communications, HDFC Bank, Aditya Birla Group, Glenmark and many more of India’s top notch companies.

Speaking on the occasion Mr. Mark Crawford, Director, International Business Development, Tourism Toronto, said,” I had been eagerly waiting

to visit India especially after the splendid response we have received from the market within our first year of business. As is known, the Indian outbound market is witnessing a rapid growth which includes large movement on the MICE front. We are keen to capitalize on this boom by illuminating the amazing resources that Toronto possesses to host large numbers.”

The event ended on a high note due to attractive surprises that were given away by the partners. Jet Airways and Starwood Hotels and Resorts showered two lucky guests with prizes such as a 3 night stay for a couple at the Westin Harbour Castle, Toronto, a 3 night stay for a couple at the Sheraton City Centre, Toronto and 2 Business class tickets on Jet Airways to Toronto and back. Winners were picked through a lucky draw.

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aina’s Cheesy Pull Shot, Sachin’s Sweet Drive, Dhoni’s Swashbuckling Super Sixer, Captain Smith’s Catch of the Season….are exciting inclusions in national carrier Air India’s onboard menu on some flights during the forthcoming cricket World Cup season!

Welcome to Air India’s India-Australia flights.

Air India’s in flight food is very popular on domestic and international routes. Together with its spacious and comfortable aircraft like the Dream liners, Air India’s onboard cuisine has been a major USP of the airline. Now, 48

taking this popularity to the next level, Air India has planned a month-long special gastronomical treat for its cricket loving passengers during the World Cup in Australia. The party on board begins on 14 Feb, the opening day of the World Cup and will be on till 29 March, 2015.

At a presentation of the special menu to be offered, held at Taj SATS flight Kitchen, Delhi, Mr .Rohit Nandan, CMD, Air India said the airline takes pride in its culinary offerings across the network.

Now, with the increasing number of international

travellers on Air India flights as also the opening up of new destinations in the recent past, the airline will include more of Indian cuisine along with the cuisine of that region. A special guest at the presentation was reputed food columnist Mr. Vir Sanghvi, who showed keen interest.

The menu has been designed by the Oberoi Flight Services and includes delicious lunch, dinner and desserts. A beverage being introduced for the first time on Air India flights is the smoothie, in a variety of Indian flavours. Indian wines will also find a place on these flights.

Items that were interesting and creative, with cricket as the theme, using bat, ball, stumps, cricket field, etc. were immensely appealing.

Also launched today were specially designed menu cards for the occasion and a cricket specific nightwear for Business Class passengers.

Mr

Ramon R. Jimenez ,Tourism Minister of Philippines calls on his Indian counterpart Dr Mahesh Sharma. .Both sides agree to improve air connectivity and explore potential in hotel and hospitality education A delegation led by the Tourism Minister of Philippines, H.E Mr Ramon R. Jimenez met Dr Mahesh Sharma, Union Minister of State for Tourism & Culture in

way exchange in the tourism sector. Various issues ranging from connectivity, infrastructure, and hospitality and hotel management education were discussed in the meeting.

Dr Mahesh Sharma highlighted the recent steps taken by the Indian government to promote tourism like Visa on Arrival enabled by Electronic Travel Authorisation, addressing issues like cleanliness, safety and se-

New Delhi. Senior officials of the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India were also present.

Both sides discussed ways to promote two-

curity among others. He said that India has a lot to offer in terms of tourism and culture as well as history.

Mr Ramon R. Jimenez

said that Philippines has a lot to offer in the area of Human Resource Development because of the presence of several good institutes of tourism, hospitality, restaurant and hotel management institutes for collaboration with India. He also disclosed that Philippines is exploring the possibility of lifting visa requirements for Indians on an experimental basis for 2015-16. Highlighting the difficulty of connectivity between the two countries, the Philippines Minister urged Dr Sharma to take it up on a priority basis.

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iger air, the leading Singapore-based budget carrier has announced the expansion of its service between Chennai and Singapore.

The airline has added two additional weekly flights on this route that will ensure more convenience for travellers from and to the city. This move is part of Tiger air’s commitment to the meet the ever increasing demand from travelers and India’s growth strategy of strengthening the existing network.

Tiger air currently operates 7 weekly flights between Chennai and Singapore. Beginning 4th December 2014, Tiger air will operate two additional weekly flights between

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Chennai and Singapore.

The first additional fight will depart Singapore on Thursday at 23.00 hours local time and arrive into Chennai on Friday at 01.15 hours local time. The second flight will depart Singapore on Saturday at 07.40 hours and arrive in Chennai at 09.15 hours. Bookings for both these flights are now available on Tiger air’s website - www.tigerair.com Commenting on the increase in frequency, Mr. Robert Yang, Commercial Director, Tiger air said, “It has been our constant Endeavour to provide convenience to our passengers. The decision to increase frequencies to Chennai is in line with the

upsurge in travel demand .The increased flights will give travelers from India a greater option and opportunity to visit beautiful Singapore. The rise in the middle income groups, youth and vacationers who are increasingly choosing to experience destination Singapore on Tiger air flights, is another reason contributing to the flight additions. We are confident that this expansion will enhance travel options and thereby contribute to the growth in tourism for both countries.”

Tiger air operates total 36 weekly flights to Singapore from five Indian destinations. The airline also connects to Bali, Bangkok, Hong Kong, Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur, Manila, Perth, Taipei via Singapore, the gateway to amazing destinations in Asia Pacific. Connect to Sydney, Gold Coast and 11 more destinations with 50 weekly flights via Singapore in collaboration with Scoot.