Ti jan 2013

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Vol. 15

Kenya

No. 9

Thiruvananthapuram

www.tourismindiaonline.com

January 2013

Reg. No. KL/TV (N) 432/2012-2014

Price: (India) Rs.50 (Overseas) US $5 £3 Dh10

Pages 24+4

Yachting

Travex 2013

The Serai

Malaysia

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he setting up of the Southern Zonal Tourism Council (SZTC) comprising the States of Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and the Union Territory of Puducherry was announced

by Mr. Chiranjeevi, Union Tourism Minister.

The Minister in his interaction with the office bearers of World Travel & Tourism

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Council- India Initiative (WTTCII) welcomed the idea that emanated from the WTTCII Bekal Retreat held in September this year. “The setting up of the Southern Zonal Tourism Council will help facilitate development of Tourism and tourism products of Southern India in a holistic and comprehensive manner. Development of Integrated Tourism Circuits among the

Southern states will be the way forward.

The issues of competitive taxation of tourism products, inter-state taxation, seamless tourist movement by facilitating smooth facilitation at entry and exit points of the States will be addressed by the council.” Mr. Chiranjeevi said.

The Ministry will be writing to the Chief Secretaries of the States, who would Chair the SZTC by rotation. Tourism Secretary and Finance Secretary of the respective states will be permanent invitees to the SZTC. The SZTC will also interact with the Stakeholder to understand the concerns and issues facing the tourism industry.

The SZTC will have a mandate to look at

ecognizing the importance of cinema as a powerful tool for the development and promotion of various tourist destinations, Mr. K. Chiranjeevi, Union Tourism Minister announced, several initiatives for promoting “Film Tourism” through films shot in India.

Announcing this in New Delhi today the Minister said that a “Land of Pi” campaign would be launched soon

the inter-State taxation on tourist vehicles, interstate permits, smooth facilitation at the entry and exit points of the States, development of requisite infrastructure to and at destinations.

Welcoming the move WTTCII in a statement said that this is an excellent step in the direction of a coordinated and planned approach to develop tourism in South India. This move will enhance the necessary infrastructure, policy and other interventions needed to take Tourism to the next level in this region.

across all media, including print, online, electronic and outdoor, to promote Puducherry and Munnar as tourist destinations. The highlights of the campaign will be : “Land of Pi” posters produced by Tourism Ministry will be displayed worldwide through the India tourism offices overseas. These would also be put on the “Incredible India” website and the websites Contd. on Page 6

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Light at the end of the tunnel F

or customers booking flights, value for money matters most when it comes to choosing a particular airline. This was the answer given by 70 per cent of the CEO Management Panel of ITB Berlin, in a recent survey of exhibitors and business partners carried out by the market research company Trendscope and ITB Berlin. For 63 per cent of those polled the second most important factors when choosing an airline were the departure airport and choice of flight times. 37 per cent customers said they only booked flights with a certain airline. For 24 per cent it was important that the airline operated modern aircraft. Customer loyalty to home carriers played an insignificant role. According to the survey nine per cent preferred to book flights with “their” national airline. Only four cent were willing to forfeit value for money.

Dr. Martin Buck, director of the Competence Center Travel & Logistics at Messe Berlin opined that “Worldwide, airlines are competing with each other in a hotly contested market.

Customers reward airlines that offer transparent services and good value for money with their loyalty because they feel they are being treated well. If a national carrier is unable to fulfil those demands then it loses its emotional bond with the customer.”

The advantages of a frequent flyer programme were also among the reasons for choosing

a particular airline. According to the survey this mattered to 42 per cent. 36 per cent were divided over whether frequent flyer programmes were important, while 22 per cent said they did not influence their booking choice. Asked which continents and regions operated the world’s best airlines, the CEO Management Panel of ITB Berlin revealed a clear trend that also reflects global market developments. Among those decision-makers polled, the most popular airlines were from Asia including the Arab countries followed by Europe. The least rated airlines were from North America, Australia, South America and Africa.

The aviation industry in India is bleeding like anything. The fate of King Fisher is still in the air and Paramount Airways already faded out from the scene. National carrier is surviving only due to government support. The other private carriers are trying their level best to survive. Still overall situation is not at all favour for further investment. But recent decision on FDI in aviations shows some light at the end of the tunnel. Etihad and Air Asia are already confirmed their talk with Jet Airways and Videocon group respectively to enter the Indian skies. Hope this year will bring more happy and prosperous news to everyone.

Have a Great 2013.

New Campaign mantra “Land of Pi”

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n a significant acknowledgment of tourism as a tool for promoting sustainable development, the UN General Assembly unanimously adopted a resolution stressing ecotourism’s role in the fight against poverty and the protection of the environment.

The resolution, entitled, “Promotion of ecotourism for poverty eradication and environment protection”, calls on UN Member States to adopt policies that promote ecotourism highlighting its “positive impact on income generation, job creation and education, and thus on the fight against poverty and hunger”.

It further recognizes that “ecotourism creates significant opportunities for the conservation, protection and sustainable use of biodiversity and of natural areas by encouraging local and indigenous communities in host countries and tourists alike to preserve and respect the natural and cultural heritage”. “UNWTO welcomes the adoption of this resolution on the importance of ecotourism,” said UNWTO Secretary-General, Taleb Rifai. “The remarkable support that the resolution has received, from all regions and across

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r. K. Chiranjeevi, Union Tourism Minister has approved the settingup of a multi-lingual helpline to provide general information and assistance to tourists. To begin with, the helpline will be in the languages of the important source countries besides Hindi and English. The Minister has directed that the toll free helpline should be accessible from everywhere in India and should start functioning in the new calendar year.

The primary objective of the proposed helpline would be to provide tourism related information to free independent travelers.

Editorial & Corporate Office: TC 9/1785, Anandam, P-99, Pullekonam Lane, Sasthamangalam Trivandrum, Kerala, India 695 010 Tel : +91.471.2315256 Fax: +91.471.2315197 E mail: info@tourismindiaonline.com Internet edition: www.tourismindiaonline.com

the development spectrum, is a clear testimony that sustainable tourism has a vital role to play in a fairer and sustainable future for all.”

The resolution, facilitated by Morocco and sponsored by a record 105 delegations, draws on the recommendations contained in a report prepared by UNWTO on the basis of responses from 48 Member States which, in a notable departure from its normal practice, was welcomed by the UN General Assembly.

In line with the recommendations of the UNWTO report, the resolution underscores the need for national tourism plans to account for market demand and local competitive advantages. It also encourages Member States to promote investment in ecotourism, in accordance with their national legislation, including creating small and medium-sized enterprises, promoting cooperatives and facilitating access to finance through inclusive financial services such as micro credit initiatives for the poor, local and indigenous communities, in areas of ecotourism potential and rural areas.

of the Puducherry and Kerala Tourism Departments.

Luxury buses plying between Chennai and Puducherry and Kochi and Munnar will be branded with “Land of Pi” creatives. Special “Land of Pi” tours and walking trails will be organized for tourists visiting Puducherry and Munnar. Maps depicting these tours have already been produced. Short films and virals on the tourist attractions in Puducherry and Munnar which have been depicted in the film have been created and one being put on Youtube and other Social Media networks.

“Land of Pi” contests will be organized online, with two prizes given every month. The prize would be a holiday package to Puducherry or Munnar, including air tickets to Chennai/Kochi and local hospitality.

A boat that hints at “Life of Pi”, with a stuffed toy tiger will be permanently placed at two prominent locations in Puducherry, to provide a photo opportunity to visiting tourists. One location will be a child-safe shallow water near Puducherry’s Paradise Island and the other the soon-to-be-

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inaugurated Puducherry airport.

T’shirts and caps branding the two lands of Pi will be produced and distributed. Online video games will be made as part of the campaign. The campaign will be undertaken in English as well as in French, German, Chinese, Spanish and Japanese.

Road shows for promoting tourism to the country will be organized in China and Taiwan, where the film “Life of Pi” has been very well received. Mr. Ang Lee is of Taiwanese origin.

The widely acclaimed film “Life of Pi” has been partly shot in the beautiful locales of Puducherry (Pondicherry) and Munnar in Kerala. In order to enable viewers of the film to visit the two regions shown in the film, Mr. Chiranjeevi held a meeting last month with the Secretaries of Tourism of Puducherry and Kerala along with Tour Operators of the region, immediately after it was observed that the film had highlighted awareness of the two regions.

Mr. K. Chiranjeevi has already announced special National Tourism Awards for Mr. Ang Lee, Director and Mr. Yann Martel, author of the Book “Life of Pi”, for promoting India through the film

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r. K. Chiranjeevi, Union Minister for Tourism informed that the ministry has been prepared a special package development of tourism in North East Region including Assam. Provision of complimentary space to the North Eastern States in India Pavilions set up at major International Travel Fairs and Exhibitions. 10% of the annual plan allocation of the Ministry of Tourism mandatorily earmarked for releasing Central Financial Assistance (CFA) to the North Eastern States.

100% CFA for organizing fairs & festivals allowed only to the North Eastern States & the State of Jammu & Kashmir. Publicity material produced and distributed widely through India Tourism offices in India and overseas.

Managing Editor: Ravisankar K.V. Executive Editor: Rajani A. Art Editor: N. Bhattathiri Associate Editor: P. Gopalakrishnan Sub Editors: Rahul Krishna, Anoop M.S. Special Correspontant: James Joseph Senior Layout Artist: Vijayagopalan G. Marketing: Ravikumar.K. (AGM) Mob: +919847560531 Director - International Marketing - Theresa Van Den Dool Consultants: Baby Mathew (Hospitality) Ashokan C.V. (Technical) R. Bhadrakumar FCA& D Ravi FCA (Financial) P. Govardhan (Legal) Dr. S. G. Pandalai (Editorial) Business Offices: UK-England: T. Haridas (Advisor) 86 Tooting High St. London SW 17 0RN Mob:+447775833754 New Delhi: D. Anil Kumar Tel: +91 11-24634248, Mob: +91 98681 23311, Mumbai: K.V. Sathyanath Tel: +91 22 29209285 Kolkata: Jayasree Singh Tel: +91 33 24187750 Mob: +91 9433060333 Bangalore: Damodaran K. Nair Mob: +91 9035616040 Hyderabad: Premraj A. Mob: +91 9446514732, Pondichery: K.Ramasubramanian Mob: +91 98949 77161 No part of this magazine may be reproduced without the written permission of Tourism India Publications Pvt. Ltd. All rights reserved. Copyright © 2012

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he ground handling team of dnata at London’s Heathrow airport have recently commenced provision of passenger services for three daily flights for Air India.

Air India, which recently celebrated its 60th anniversary, operates three flights daily using Boeing 777 aircraft, from Heathrow to Mumbai and Delhi. Under the new contract, dnata is now providing passenger services to the airline, which include checking in passengers, operation of Air India’s ticket counter and Maharaja VIP Lounge and lost luggage staff to assist with queries in the arrivals hall as well as a range of special services.

M Escort of First Class and Business Class passengers to from check-in lounge and gates as well as escorting these passengers inbound from the aircraft through immigration to the baggage reclaim area is also part of the provision which has been running since the start of the contact on 1st December.

r. Craig Kreeger appointed as Virgin Atlantic Airways has as its new Chief Executive Officer. He will assume the role on 1st February 2013. He joins from American Airlines (AA), where he has held a 27-year career spanning commercial, financial and strategic roles in the US and around the globe.

Kreeger, 53, succeeds current CEO, Steve Ridgway, who is retiring from the airline.

Kreeger, a graduate of the University of California in San Diego and with a MBA from UCLA, joined AA in 1985 as an analyst and was appointed Senior Vice President, Customer in 2012. He spent six years in London as Senior Vice President, International and was responsible for AA operations and sales throughout Europe, the Middle East, Africa and the Pacific.

He has worked on AA joint ventures with British Airways and Iberia across the Atlantic, as well as its partnership with Japanese Airlines in the Pacific.

Virgin Atlantic President, Sir Richard Branson said: “We are thrilled to welcome Craig to Virgin Atlantic – he is the right person to succeed Steve Ridgway at this dynamic and challenging time for our airline. We believe Craig has the experience and passion to drive Virgin Atlantic forward and capitalise on the opportunities created by our new venture with Delta Airlines.”

Craig Kreeger said: “I am delighted to be taking on the role of Virgin Atlantic’s Chief Executive. It is a great airline renowned for its customer service and innovation. I have been competing with it for many years but have always admired its laser focus on its people, its products and its customers. I am looking forward to working with the Virgin Atlantic team to build on Steve’s achievements and create the next exciting chapter.”

Steve Ridgway will introduce and work alongside Craig until the end of February 2013.

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mirates airlines achieved another first with the inaugural departure of an A380 flight from the new and world’s only dedicated and purposebuilt A380 concourse at Dubai International Airport.

Part of the airport’s Terminal 3 complex, Concourse A will become the “home of the Emirates A380”, from where passengers will connect to more than 20 Emirates A380 destinations around the world, including A380 flights to Europe on Australian airline, Qantas, in terms of the global partnership announced recently which is pending the approval of the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission.

“This is an historic and momentous occasion, marking another world first from Emirates. The new A380 hub is another example of Emirates being a leader in providing innovative products and services that give customers an

unsurpassed travel experience,” said His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of the Dubai Department of Civil Aviation, Chairman and Chief Executive, Emirates Airline and Group and Chairman of Dubai Airports.

“We are confident that our customers will find the new concourse to be a remarkable world class facility befitting of our flagship Emirates A380 aircraft.” “I would also like to congratulate Dubai Airports on achieving this major milestone in the development of Concourse A.”

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mirates is welcoming 2013 aboard by offering very attractive fares for quickacting customers. Whether your New Year’s resolution is to spend more time with family and friends or visit a dream destination Emirates’ Economy Class deals, currently available for early bookers, offer something for everyone.

The special fares apply to more than 120 destinations across the Emirates’ network when booked between 26th December 2012 and 10th January 2013 - for travel from 18th January to 10th June 2013.

“With our excellent on board product and a long list of exciting destinations from Buenos Aires and San Francisco in the west to Tokyo and Auckland in the east – there are already many reasons to experience Emirates,” said Mr. Essa Sulaiman Ahmad, Vice President India & Nepal, Emirates Airline “Now, we are injecting even more value into Economy Class fares, while giving a warm welcome to 2013. We urge customers to move quickly to secure seats at the best price,” added Mr Ahmad.

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ea Dream Yacht Club considered ‘The World’s Best’ by acclaimed critics worldwide and most in the seagoing fraternity brings its ultra luxury yachting experiences to the Indian elite.

Sea Dream’s ultra luxury twin mega-yachts SEADREAM I and SEADREAM II were designed as prototypes for the ultra-luxury yachting experience.

Teak decks, inviting seating and lounging areas with plenty of room to stroll or relax and watch the world go by. With all the comforts of home and more, SEADREAM yachts reflect a passion for style, quality and casual perfection.

With the 2013 cruise season setting in, Indian guests can now sail along the mighty Mediterranean to visit some of the most colorful and contrasting ports or yacht the Asian waters to explore the true culture of the spectacular continent.

SeaDream visits the most exciting yachting destinations as well as the most picturesque ports and harbors in the Mediterranean. Yachting in the Mediterranean and it’s neighboring Black Sea, is best May through October. From the Algarve to the Aegean, Nice to North Africa, SEADREAM visits some of the most colorful and contrasting ports in the Mediterranean. We take great pride in offering exceptional itineraries to classic yachting destinations and fascinating harbors, brimming with individuality and character.

Combine the timeless attractions of Venice and its lagoon with the spectacular cliff-top setting of Corsican Bonifacio; the villages of the Amalfi coast, clinging to the sun-drenched hillsides; the walled city of Dubrovnik

and the whitewashed passage- ways of Santorini. Visit Portoferraio, Napoleon’s home while in exile on the island of Elba. Korcula, Marco Polo’s birthplace off the Dalmatian Coast. Itea, close to the ancient wonders of Delphi. Porto Cervo on Sardinia’s Costa Smeralda.

The Casino at Monte Carlo. These locations and many more are part of yachting with SEADREAM in the Mediterranean.

One voyage may be the ideal length of time to explore your chosen part of the Mediterranean. To prolong the enjoyment, you may link multiple consecutive voyages.

Prompted by demand from its Indian Travel fraternity and very loyal Club members, SeaDream makes its debut with a series of voyages in Asia and Northern Australia in late 2013. SeaDream II will sail to Asia after completing her 2013 Mediterranean season. Sure to be a unique voyage, the “Passage to the Far East” will depart Athens, Greece in October 2013 and include a transit of the Suez Canal, excursions to Egypt’s fascinating archaeological sites (accompanied

by Egyptologist) and calls to several other intriguing destinations before arriving in Mumbai, India.

At all the Indian stopovers (Mumbai, Goa, Kochi and Port Blair), SeaDream will Show Case its exclusive standard of Cuisine and service to select Elite Indians, Upper crust, Travel and Media fraternity of why SeaDream has dominated the Topmost Position for the Decade in the Cruise Industry. From Mumbai, the yacht will sail to Singapore and the Far East, planning to offer 18 unique voyages in the region. Voyages are 7 to 15 days long, but most may be combined as a backto-back voyage for a lengthier holiday.

Appointments

Mr. Miguel Munoz has been appionted as the Head of Resort Operations, Sterling Holiday Resorts (India) Ltd

Mr. Elton Hurtis has been appionted as the General Manager Courtyard by Marriott, Bhopal

Mr. Praveen Sharma has been appionted as Director- Sales of the Courtyard by Marriott, Bhopal

Mr. Amol More has been appionted as Director of Food & Beverage at Courtyard

by Marriott, Bhopal

Mr. Amit Dash has been appointed as Executive Sous Chef at Courtyard by Marriott Mumbai International Airport

Mr. Santosh Rawat has been appionted as Pastry Chef at Renaissance Mumbai Convention Centre Hotel and Lakeside Chalet – Mumbai Marriott Executive Apartments

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ncredible India-2013 Calendar brought out by Ministry of Tourism, based on the theme “Find What You Seek” as part of Phase II of the Incredible India campaign, was launched by Mr. K. Chiranjeevi, Union Minister for Tourism during World Travel Mart (WTM), London 2012.

The calendar captures varied Indian tourism products and covers a wide spectrum of Indian destinations. The calendar understates that India is for all reasons, for all seasons and for all. The Calendar can be viewed as per website www.incredibleindia.org.

The January month shows skiing in Gulmarg, the February depicts Bengal Tiger in Bandhavgarh, the month of March

captures Scuba Diving in warm waters of Andaman to see corals, the month of April brings to the fore a Double Decker root foot bridge in Cherrapunji, the month of May highlights Charminar of Hyderabad, the month of June takes the traveler to Buddhist Monks in Himalayas, the month of July has gorgeous Sun Temple of Konark, the month of August carries Icon of India, Taj Mahal, the month of September takes the viewer to Mysore Palace in Karnataka, the month of October showcases the Formula One race, the month of November carries the picture of beautiful Munnar of Kerala and the Calendar ends with Desert of Jaisalmer, Rajasthan.

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nion Tourism Minister Mr. K Chiranjeevi has said that Vietnam is a pillar of India’s Look East Policy and India gives high priority to strengthening the engagement with Vietnam both bilaterally and within the framework of ASEAN. Addressing a seminar on Trade and Investment organized by the Embassy of India in Hanoi in coordination with Ministry of Industry and Trade and Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the Minister said, “ We stand ready to add more content to our ‘Strategic Partnership’, especially in economic, commercial, defence and security, scientific and technical and cultural fields.” While emphasising on bilateral trade Mr. Chiranjeevi said; “We have set a target of US$100 billion for ASEAN India trade by 2015. The ASEAN India FTA in goods and the conclusion of negotiation on the ASEAN India FTA in services and investments have laid the foundations for an ASEAN India Free Trade Area, comprising 1.8 billion people

and a combined GDP of US$3.8 billion.”

The seminar was attended by Mr. Phung Tan Viet, Vice Chairman of People’s Committee of Danang, Mr. Hoang Van Dung, Vice Chairman of Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Mr. Nguyen Van Tuan, Chairman of Vietnam National Tourism Administration and representatives of about 150 Vietnamese companies.

The Tourism Minister also had a bilateral discussion with Mr. Nguyen Van Tuan the Chairman of Vietnam National Tourism Administration. During the discussion, the Minister said that the potential for cooperation between the two countries in tourism is very big and proposed that government authorities of both the countries should give the lead to promote the cooperation’s among tour operators in both Vietnam and India. He requested Vietnam to introduce a good package for film making delegations from India so that they can come and shoot films about Vietnam.

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hink Strawberries has been appointed as the India representative office of the Jordan Tourism Board, to promote and market Jordan’s sites and products within the Indian tourism sector for both the media and the trade.

The Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, which once was the topic of folklore, continues to capture the imagination of a whole new generation with its stunning combination of nature, history, food, religious and Biblical sites that are important for those interested in holy land pilgrimage and historical sites of relevance. An extremely peaceful, stable and progressive nation, Jordan enjoys a

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IA Rail Canada is in full celebration mode this holiday season with some of Canada’s most quirky events and festivals lined-up throughout the winter. From gigantic ice slides, to the largest winter festival in the world, to taking a dip with polar bears, a winter adventure can be found along VIA Rail’s routes.

A major attraction in Canada for the holiday season, the CAA Winter Festival of Lights is Canada’s largest lights festival, turning Niagara Falls into a winter wonderland and attracting more than 1 million visitors. Travellers can get off the Corridor train at the Niagara Falls stop and visit the festival that features more than 120 illuminations, including the Enchantment of Disney displays. The lights will stay up until January 31, 2013.

While on the Ocean later in the winter, visitors can stop at Moncton and join in on Winter festivel for fun filled family activities. On February 2 and 3, 2013 New Brunswick’s best winter celebration comes to Fredericton. The gigantic ice slides, almost 23 feet high, thrill visitors from far and wide. Families will also enjoy the snow maze; snow and ice sculptures; pony rides; horse-drawn sleigh rides; polar bear games of bowling, curling and golf; dog sled rides; petting zoos; and more.

At Halifax on the Ocean route, the Dead of Winter festival is an acoustic music festival held annually on the last weekend of January 2013. The festival brings a diverse group of acoustic musicians together to not only perform but to also meet one another in a professional environment. The event showcases the diversity of acoustic music in the Atlantic Region, Canada and the United States.

While on the Canadian route, visitors can’t miss the Festival du Voyageur in Winnipeg. Literally, translated as ‘Festival of the Traveler,’ this 10-day winter festival takes place from February 15 to 24, 2013 celebrating the sights, sounds, snow and spirit of Canada. ‘Voyageur’ refers to those who worked for a fur trading company and usually travelled by canoe. The Festival du Voyageur’s emphasis is on the magnificence of winter with several historical, educational and entertaining activities and special events.

Look-alike contests, a beard-growing contest, fiddling contest and snow sculptures are on the schedule. Dubbed “The World’s Largest Kitchen Party,” food and wine from the region adds to the fun. Guests will feel the spirit and culture of the Voyageur as this vibrant community comes together to celebrate.

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bachelor degree in business administration.

She joined the public service in 1988 and served as the promotion department head of the former MGTO from 1994 to 1998 and Deputy Director of MGTO from 1998 till today. Currently, Fernandes acts as a member of Committee of Nomination of Medals and Honorary Titles, Macau Grand Prix Committee, Tourism Development Committee, Tourism Crisis Management Office and Committee for the Development of Conventions and Exhibitions. She was also a member of the Strategic Intelligence Advisory Committee of the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) from 2007 to 2009.

s. Maria Helena de Senna Fernandes appointed as the new Director of Macau Government Tourist Office. Cheong U, Secretary for Social Affairs and Culture of the Macau SAR Government hosted an inaugural ceremony for the Director of Macau Government Tourist Office (MGTO) Maria Helena de Senna Fernandes as she assumed her duties with the tourism office.

The inaugural ceremony took place at Tourism Activities Centre. Secretary Cheong administered the oath of office while it was witnessed

by Acting Chief of Office of the Secretary for Social Affairs and Culture, Maria Madalena Leong.

The new Director of MGTO Maria Helena de Senna Fernandes possesses a

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he World Travel Brands is one of the most coveted of Travel Awards, honouring powerful brands, exceptional individuals & innovative businesses from the Travel, Tourism & Hospitality industries, that have excelled in customer service and developed innovative ways to carve an emphatic identity for themselves.

With the winners being selected on the basis of comprehensive profiling of the brand, quality of services and consumer perception, this award is yet another a reiteration of the leadership position of Thomas Cook (India) Ltd. Representatives across Travel, Tourism & Hospitality industries, including travel agencies, tour and cruise operators, airlines, restaurants and hotels, were present at the event, and the awards were

temperate and warm climate all around the year.

Float into smooth nothingness in the Dead Sea and imagine how it was when Jesus Christ walked on this very sea more than 2000 years ago; gasp in amazement in Petra; Revel in Wadi Musa which is the very spot where Moses passed; taste the delectable cuisine in its capital city Amman or go dune bashing in Wadi Rum -- Jordan will capture all your senses and is the perfect destination for a religious pilgrimage, holiday, or MICE thanks to its superior quality hotels, modern infrastructure and varied activities.

handed over by India’s leading ad film director & ad guru Prahlad Kakkar.

As one of the largest buyers of travel and travel related products and services countrywide, Thomas Cook India’s Corporate Travel Management offers an array of customized corporate solutions that leverage the power of negotiated pricing coupled with the diversity of its product service portfolio. Flexibility in the offering is enhanced by both online and offline solutions and the backing of Thomas Cook India’s 24x7 India Contact Centre.

Today, Thomas Cook India effectively manages the travel budgets of business Travellers across the corporate segment, including large multinationals, Indian Corporate Houses and SMEs.

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he Storm festival- is the first-of-itskind Camp Out Music festival - that redefined the very concept of a ‘destination festival’ with its debut earlier this year. 12 bands, 16 Indian DJs and 5 International names ignited the spirits of 2500 plus Stormers at the festival venue which is now called ‘Stormfields’.

Storm 2012 had set the benchmark, with its tight programming and high standards of production. The festival in year one had two vivacious stages with over 40 top rated national and international artistes and a well executed camp out arrangement (a first), along with a completely fresh destination for the festival.

Storm 2013 will feature 45 plus artistes across 4 brilliant stages to showcase some of the biggest and brightest Bands, SingerSongwriters as well as Electronica artistes from the country and across the world. The 2nd edition will take place in 22 acres of

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early 100 travel agents and media from 11 Asia-Pacific countries convened in one of Thailand’s most famous national parks recently for the first such travel mart organized by the Tourism Authority of Thailand.

“The Ultimate Khao Yai” travel mart was being organized by the TAT”s Asia and South Pacific regional office, which flew in 64 buyers and 25 media from China, Korea, Japan, Hong Kong, Taipei, India, Vietnam, Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia and Australia. A number of domestic Thai tour operators were also invited.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2005, Khao Yai National Park is the second largest in Thailand. Located less than three hours drive from Bangkok, its perimeter areas have attracted considerable investment in eco-friendly resorts, lodges and boutique hotels

heaven in Napoklu, Coorg - a place where nature merges with the music.

Adventure, camping, ecological awareness, late night campsite jams, handpicked music from across the world and breathtaking decor are some of the salient features of the festival. It will also feature workshops on farming and yoga among others. This time the musical line up will be exhaustive, and one can expect a lot more music, a lot more variety and quite a few surprises. The festival also stands firm on its ‘No Drugs’ policy.

There are many points that make the Storm festival unique. The meticulous concern towards preserving the environment happens to be just one of them. Storm is a realisation of many passions of its festival directors, Lavin Uthappa and Sachin Bopanna particularly for nature and music.

catering to nichemarket travelers.

The promotional effort is in line with the strategy identified in the TAT’s Marketing Plan for 2013, viz., to promote the country’s natural and environmental attractions and diversify visitors away from the beach resorts.

The objective of “The Ultimate Khao Yai” was to create awareness and stimulate travel to new tourism attractions located within short travelling distance from Bangkok.

It was also designed to help boost weekday traffic from the Thai capital, especially for small meetings, business events and conferences. The range of natural and man-made attractions around the National Park include a dairy farm, sheep farm, vineyards, golf courses, theme parks and shopping malls.

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he Mud Rush (TMR) is an all-terrain marathon style run that stretches across a 7 km circuit with challenging obstacles designed by the Indian Special Forces from Z–Bac. These encompass 30-foot stacks of hay, water bodies, barrier walls, 100 feet stretches of tires, 45 degree hills, fire, ice, and, of course, a whole lot of mud. As the day proceeds, be ready for an exciting Sun-downer with International DJs, home grown VJs and bands will showcase their talent, give you another reason to dance, head-bang your heads and have the time of your life.

The goal of The Mud Rush is not just to test your endurance and physical stamina, but also to push your mental grit. This race is not intended for only the super athletic. It requires you to just unleash all your energy and head for the finish line. You or your team can also to participate in unique uniform and outfit competitions, either for fun or to support something you care about. You could choose to bypass challenges or exit the race at any point of time. But, the organizers are hoping with your group

of cheering friends, the camaraderie of your fellow participants and our constant team support, you’re going to complete this, down to the last muddy mile. Don’t forget, the course is designed for fun, for you and your friends to enjoy an exciting day together.

The fun doesn’t stop here, making sure this event doesn’t end at the course’s finish line. After the rush is over your day’s just getting started. You’ve completed the run and are now officially a Mud Rusher. After a little breather, get ready to wine, dine and celebrate your accomplishments of the day. The recreational area will have an assortment of cover bands, great music, a huge spread of your favourite food and beverages, and constant entertainment.

The best part of The Mud Rush is that the organizers are giving a share of all the proceeds to further benefit Army Related NGO. Imagine having fun and making the world a better place at the same time. It all starts here.

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significant step forward in our efforts to increase our resort network and offer our members and guests holidays in scenic destinations. Over the next few months, we will be working to bring to fruition our plans to offer more scenic getaways across India.”

Dharamshala is a city in the upper reaches of the Kangra Valley and is surrounded by dense coniferous forest.

Dharamshala is the winter seat of the Himachal Pradesh government, the district headquarters of Kangra district, and is also famous world over as the home to the Dalai Lama. Dharamshala is known for its religious significance and is home to the largest Tibetan temple outside of Tibet. It’s seen as a place to restore spiritual energy, and enjoy the picturesque beauty of nature be it with a stroll to the Bhagsu Waterfall or a climb up the hill to Triund to bask in stunning views of the Himalayas.

terling Holidays, India’s leading Vacation Ownership and Leisure Hospitality Company, announced the opening of its 19th resort, Dharamshala The Sanctuary. With this addition, Sterling now offers its members and guests a choice of 19 resorts across India’s most scenic holiday destinations.

With a majestic view of the Dhauladhar range and the gurgling, perennial brooks of the Beas River, The Sanctuary offers the best of both worlds – cosy comfort within and a world of natural beauty outside.

The full-service, modern resort has 26 elegantly furnished rooms, a multi-cuisine restaurant, bar, conference facilities and a range of recreational activities designed to engage members and guests in fun-filled, memorable holiday experiences.

Commenting on the opening, Mr. Ramesh Ramanathan, Managing Director, Sterling Holidays, said, “The addition of Dharamshala - The Sanctuary is yet another

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ourism Malaysia with cooperation from Malaysia Airlines is organizing a promotional program called Sales Mission to India in conjunction with South Asia Travel and Tourism Exchange (SATTE 2013) from 7th – 18th January 2013. The program will cover 4 cities namely Chennai, Mumbai, Kolkata and New Delhi. In New Delhi, the program will involve participation in SATTE 2013 will be held from 16 – 18 January 2013.

Mr. Zulkifly Md, Director of South Asia, West Asia & Africa Division of Tourism Malyasia Said “the Malaysian Delegation consisting of 17 tour agents, 21 hotel operators, 6 product owners, 3 state governments and Tourism Malaysia officials to promote Malaysia as a preferred tourist destination. A cultural troupe from ‘Istana Budaya’ would also be a part of this delegation. This troupe will showcase Malaysia’s multi-cultural attractions such as traditional dances, batik painting, tea making (teh tarik) demonstration and local delicacies. Media interviews will be organized to disseminate important tourism information to the market”.

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epal Tourism Board recently conducted Nepal Sales Mission 2013 in two South Indian cities. The sales missions were held in Madurai on 8 January, and in Trichy on 9 January - 2013.

Nepal looks to boost Pilgrimage Tourism through road shows in Madurai and Trichy In an effort to attract pilgrimage tourists from South India, the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) recently organised road shows in Madurai and Trichy. Mr. Rohini Prasad Khanal, Senior Officer - marketing & Promotion, NTB, said that the objective of the road shows was to facilitate mutual growth in the tourism sector.

He pointed out that South Indians, especially those from Tamil Nadu, preferred to visit religious places and NTB is keen to promote Mount Kailash-Manasarovar. Nepal had a variety of tourist spots to attract tourists across age groups and has established itself as the gateway to Mount Kailash-Manasarovar. In 2012, Nepal received 164,680 tourists

from India by air which is 13.3% increment compared to last year.

Nepal has always been popular with Indians as a recreational, shopping and pilgrimage destination. Nepal is a prominent destination amongst Hindus across the world. Earlier known as the only Hindu Kingdom of the world, Nepal is thronged with thousands of Shiva-devotees especially during Mahashivaratri to pay homage to Pashupatinath.

There is a popular belief prevalent among the Hindus that a visit to these sacred sites will ensure a prosperous earthly life and a rewarding after-life.

No visa requirement, good air connectivity with almost 55 flights per week between Kathmandu and Indian cities of Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai and Varanasi, easy access by road, year round pleasant weather, favourable exchange rate for Indian currency are some of the major factors that contribute to Nepal’s popularity as a favourite holiday destination amongst Indians.

Business sessions (Buyer and sellers meet) will be held in all 4 cities. This will be an excellent platform for the Indian travel agents to meet the Malaysian hoteliers & product owners, tour operators and tourism boards. Trade dinners will also be organized in each city for the local travel trade. Besides that, presentations by selected Malaysian industry players will be held to introduce new and exciting products.

India is a top ten market for Malaysia, with a total of 690,849 tourists recorded in 2010. In 2011, the number of tourists increased to 693,056. In 2012, from the period of January to September, a total of 514,926 tourists from India have been recorded, showing a 2.6% growth compared to the same period last year (501,828).

This promotional effort expected to increase the numbers significantly, through heralding a greater awareness of Malaysia as an ideal holiday destination, as well as fostering greater cooperation between tour operators and members of the tourism fraternity.

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ith Valentine’s Day around the corner, Lushescapes, India’s leading Luxury Travel expert has now brought to its customers a unique dinner experience like never before that promises pure luxury. A scrumptious fine dining experience- Dinner in the Sky is for those with a penchant for the extraordinary who would like to indulge into the romantic once in a lifetime experience with their loved ones.

The Dinner in the sky experience is a Belgian concept which involves a table suspended almost 50 meters above the ground and what you see is the Las Vegas skyline like a faint line scrawled by a brown pencil, the mountains

outline the horizon, looking more beautiful than ever.

With choices across a host of custom made options, you can be there with your better half, family, colleagues, friends, or just yourself. Some of the finest chefs serve their fares while people are entertained by music as a pianist plays songs, with his piano placed neatly on another suspension.

Indulgence and luxury are the only norms for this unique and romantic dinner experience. Moreover, the experience can be arranged over a variety of locations such as golf courses, public places, race tracks, castles, vineyards or any other, as long as the site allows some conditions.

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aos, the host country of ATF TRAVEX 2013 is all set to host another mile stone event with more number of Industry partners, exhibitors, high level government delegates from ASEAN countries and its neighbours along media from across the globe. The event has already captured the industry’s attention. Delegates around the world are excited by destination Laos and are keen to see Vientiane gearing up for the task at hand. Laos will host the 32nd instalment of ATF in Vientiane, the capital of Lao PDR, from 17 to 24 January, 2013 ATF TRAVEX 2013 will take place from 22 to 24 January at the Lao International Trade Exhibition and Convention Centre (Lao ITECC), one of the most prestigious shopping and recreational centres in Vientiane. Situated on the Mekong River, Vientiane is the economic centre of Laos.

It is celebrated for its ecotourism, Buddhist culture and food. This is the second time that Vientiane will be hosting the event.

This year the 10 ASEAN countries are well represented by over 500 exhibiting booths! In addition, hear from each of the 10 ASEAN NTO’s about their upcoming plans for travel and tourism in their respective countries.

Professor Dr. Bosengkham Vongdara, Minister of Information, Culture and Tourism, Laos said, “This is an exciting time for Laos’ tourism industry and we are honoured to host ATF 2013. Since we last hosted ATF nine years ago, Laos has grown in infrastructure and facilities. Through ATF, we will do our best to contribute to strengthen and build an ASEAN commu-

nity by 2015, as adopted and promoted at ASEAN summits by the region’s leaders.”

Mr. Saly Phimpinith, Director-General, Tourism Marketing Department at the ministry, also spoke about the facilities in Laos and added, “We already added more than 300 rooms this year to our existing capacity of about 3000. We also wish to give ATF TRAVEX delegates a glimpse of

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American, and a bit of each in some cases.

ASEAN symbolises unity in diversity and this is most evident in its thriving tourism industry, a key economic driver for Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Lao PDR, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam.

The region offers wide and varied experiences. The simple and rustic life of villagers and hill tribes where time has stood still, co-exist side-by-side with luxurious,

SEAN (Association of South-East Asian Nations) is a colourful and vibrant tropical 10-in-1 paradise like no other. Visitors to South-east Asia enjoy a truly unique experience because each ASEAN member country has been shaped by the fusion of centuries-old culture dating back to between the 13th and 15th centuries.

This includes Buddhism, Hinduism, Islam and Christianity, and the influence of the Portuguese, Dutch, British, French and

this simply beautiful country through the pre-show city tours and post-show tours.”

The ASEAN Tourism Conference (ATC) – the educational component of ATF – will feature sessions by industry veterans, which will engage the audience through presentations and panel discussions on the major trends, and issues affecting ASEAN tourism today. This year, ATC is themed, “Road Map for ASEAN: Fostering Sustainable Growth, Promoting EcoTourism.” Eminent speakers including panel of industry experts and veterans will air their views and suggestions for a better tomorrow.

The social and networking events at ATF will continue to offer delegates the opportunity to create new contacts within

the industry in relaxed and unique settings such as the popular golf game, late night functions or the hosted luncheons and dinners. With pre- and post-event tours, friendly golf game and social functions including the opening ceremony, hosted luncheons and dinners, late night functions will named ATF 2013 is a networking paradise!

sophisticated and ultra-modern amenities and attractions such as world-class golf courses, buzzing nightspots, pampering spa resorts, mega shopping malls, as well as humble and high-end restaurants that serve every kind of cuisine.

The 10 neighbours and ASEAN member countries live in harmony by accepting and respecting each other’s differences and similarities, and this is why ATF (ASEAN Tourism Forum) is still going strong.

First established in 1981, ATF has played a very important role in the region’s tourism development. TRAVEX at ATF is still the most important regional marketplace for NTOs and travel suppliers to showcase their tourism products to buyers from Asia and all over the world. At the same time, government and private sector association meetings at each ATF provide the perfect platform to review strategies, improve cooperation and implement measures to tackle challenges and take advantage of opportunities collectively.

As part of integrating ASEAN’s tourism sector to conquer the future, the Tourism Strategic Plan (2011-2015) has succeeded

the Roadmap for Integration of the Tourism Sector (2004-2010). With ASEAN member countries working hard and working hand in hand to adopt policies which develop and grow a sustainable tourism industry that benefit the local population and elevate poverty, South-east Asia’s tourism future is bright.

Coupled with the warm and hospitable people, fascinating culture, architecture, cuisine and geography, and where old centuries meet 21st century, the region will continue to attract every spectrum of traveller – adventure seekers, backpackers, businessmen, families, photography enthusiast, those seeking sun, sand and sea, trekkers, and more.

Whether for business or for pleasure, South-east Asia has a lot to offer visitors wishing to capture a piece of the past, enjoy the modern, and return in the future to discover new experiences.

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arriot Group of Hotels namely, JW Marriott Mumbai, Renaissance Mumbai Convention Center Hotel and

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ssociation of Tourism Trade Organisation, India (ATTOI), is organising an International Conference on Travel Technology (ICTT) from June 7 to 9, 2013 at Trivandrum. The three-day conference will be held at The Leela, Kovalam.

The idea behind such event arose from the fast changing business scenario where the tourism fraternity is heavily dependent on the technology and innovations that is happening over the web space, travel software, mobile applications and the turnaround of marketing and sales trends.

The changes are so fast paced that catching up to it has become very difficult and by the time you adapt to one, it may have become obsolete.

According to Mr. P.K. Anish Kumar, Secretary of the ATTOI, “The low tourist arrivals from the inbound source markets due to economic slow down can be resolved by expanding the markets and the distribution channels. Internet marketing and social media are tools to penetrate in to the new markets. First of its kind International Conference to explore the opportunities and to further expand online presence of India Tourism to attract more tourists to the state. Effective use of Social media tools like Twitter, Facebook, Linkedin are the ways to penetrate in to new source markets”.

Tour Operators, Hotels, Resorts, SEO companies, Software companies, Social media marketing companies, Media, and active users of social media can register as delegate. Registration fee will be Rs.10999 + 12.36% and registration will be open from end of November.

Eminent speakers with diverse backgrounds will attend and sessions. Talks on various core topics in tourism will be held as part of it. The conference aims at preparing the travel and tourism partners in India and neighboring countries to use the resources available online to drive business, get inputs in adapting to the changing technology and acquiring skills to beat the competition.

Ms. Selina Power, a social media specialist and social media commentator from Australia will speak on the topics ‘How travellers use social media and how travel business need to respond?’ and ‘Social media’s relevance and its impact on consumer behaviour.’ Australian social media speaker Mr. Adam Franklin will speak on ‘Inbound marketing - the cost-effective way of marketing’ and ‘Blogging - an inexpensive medium to generate leads and add value to your websites.’

On the topics ‘Online reputation management - art of listening and responding’ and ‘changing technology and marketing trends for the future in tourism,’ Ms. Sheila Scarborough, writer and speaker from the US, will speak. Mr. Chad Wiebesick from the US will delve upon ‘Social media opportunities and challenges in tourism marketing’ and ‘Organic search or PPC or both - what’s the way out?’ Social networking entrepreneur Mr. Philip Calvert from the UK will deal with the topic ‘How to leverage your networking on LinkedIn: Powerful and proven strategies for travel professionals more details available at www.icttindia. org www.facebook.com/ictt2013

Courtyard by Marriott, Mumbai willingly from all the three hotels provided 500 extended their support to MBA Foundation lunch packets for the people present on on World Disability Day. Associates the occasion of an awareness program organized by MBA Foundation in association with Self Esteem Foundation for Disabled.

For the cause of World Disability Day, MBA Foundation with Self Esteem Foundation for Disabled organized the first Kite festival of Powai, with the theme “Togetherness is Happiness” on Monday December 3rd, 2012 which was inaugurated by Shri Niranjan Hiranandani. The main objective of this program was to increase awareness about rehab requirements of people with disabilities. The event saw many children from regular schools and special schools in and around Powai coming together to mark the day and celebrate “Togetherness”.

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his year, Royal Caribbean International nears the end of its $300 million fleet wide revitalization program integrating the latest innovations and highest guestrated programs from the world’s largest and most revolutionary cruise ships (The Oasis Class vessels). Recent enhancements on the refreshed and rejuvenated ships will offer guests a greater variety of new onboard dining and entertainment options, new staterooms, pervasive Wi-Fi, Royal Babies and Tots Nursery, digital wayfinding systems, interactive flat-panel televisions in staterooms, i-pod docking stations and lots more.

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Further, discover first-at-sea experiences and exciting amenities onboard various ships this year - ranging from a 40-foot-long surf simulator to a revolutionary ice rink or the 9 deck high zip line; from state-of-the-art fitness centres to full sized sports courts; from hit Broadway shows to the DreamWorks experience and much more. Whether you’re lounging by the pool, relaxing at the spa, indulging at the casino or enjoying one of the many bars and lounges, the impeccable facilities and personalised Gold Anchor Service will leave a lasting impression.

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aharashtra tourism showcases its tourism potential on the international platform with a TV show to reach out to 14 Asian countries which Started from last December. In an exclusive tie-up Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC) has covered six major unexplored tourist destinations from various parts of the State.

The telecast partner, Discovery TLC, will telecast the episodes dedicated to Maharashtra from December 29, 2012 to international target audience under the title ‘Go Maharashtra’. Dr. Jagdish Patil, Managing Director, MTDC, said “Six episodes will explore the State’s inimitable and unexplored attractions and will be based on the theme of promoting tourism treasures of Maharashtra. These episodes

will be telecasted on the TLC (Travel and Living) feed and will reach the television sets of a diverse audience from across India and 14 major Asian Countries.”

The 22-minute show will be aired

by Discovery TLC SAARC Mauritius, Maldives, Bangladesh, Bhutan and Nepal, and by Discovery TLC Asia Pacific Australia, New Zealand, Taiwan, Indonesia, Philippines, Malaysia, Singapore, Hong Kong, Thailand.

To further ensure a multiplied reach, these episodes will also be included in the Discovery Worldwide archives library and will be telecasted globally by the International Scheduling Team in the other markets respect to the availability of airtime in their corresponding regions.

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State Level Project Management Agency (SLPMA) for Maharashtra for preparation of Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) of circuits identified by NLC. The fund requirement for each circuit will be decided after the finalisation of DPRs and funds will be provided under the Plan Schemes of Ministry of Tourism based on the project proposal received from the State Government subject to inter-se-priority.

he Ministry of Tourism has appointed a National Level Consultant (NLC) to identify some spiritual tourism circuits, including Sufi Circuit, for integrated development in association with the States/Union Territories (UTs) during the 12th Plan period. The Sufi Circuit identified

by NLC for the State of Maharashtra is “Mumbai – Aurangabad – Shirdi”.

The Ministry of Tourism has appointed

With 22 innovative ships and hundreds of destinations in 72 countries across 6 continents to choose from, TIRUN Travel Marketing, the exclusive representative of Royal Caribbean International in the country, recently interpreted the year’s offering for the Indian traveller. Charting this year’s cruise calendar the company revealed some of the ideal itineraries for individuals, couples, families, groups and MICE organisers in the country.

Over the next few months, Indian travellers can avail exciting 7-Night Emirates sailings and an 11-Night cruise from Dubai to Singapore via ports like Goa, Kochi, Penang and Kuala Lumpur.

This is also an excellent time to experience a 2 to 7-Night cruise aboard MS Legend of the Seas capitalising on the limited period offer of a complimentary overnight stay in Singapore. 2013 will not only witness the maiden deployment of MS Mariner of the Seas to Asia Pacific but also the return of last year’s Indian favourite MS Voyager of the Seas, providing more than a hundred 2 to 14-Night cruise itineraries through

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March to December. Departing from ports like Singapore, China, Japan and Australia to exotic destinations in South East Asia, Korea, Hong Kong, Japan and further into the Australia and New Zealand region, these voyager class vessels will be the largest ships in Asian waters and bring a host of innovations that revolutionise cruising in the region.

The summer brings brilliant opportunities to explore Europe as the most innovative ships in the region offer hundreds of exceptional 2 to 16-Night Northern Europe and Mediterranean itineraries. Some of the most intriguing cruises in the region include the Western Mediterranean, Greek Isles, Baltic States, Northern Lights and the Arctic. This is also a great time to take a cruise-tour through Alaska’s thundering glaciers and wondrous inland treasures. Furthermore, for the ultimate cruise experience, travel aboard the world’s largest ships – MS Oasis of the Seas and MS Allure of the Seas – sailing to exotic destinations in the Caribbean and Bahamas all year round.

ite is the global association for professionals in the global incentives industry. Site has grown since its inception 40 years ago to nearly 2,000 members in 90 countries with 28 local and regional chapters. It is the only global authority connecting motivational experiences with business results. The community of Site professionals brings best-in-class solutions, insights and global connections to maximize the business impact of motivational experiences regardless of industry, region or culture. Site serves as the source of expertise, knowledge and personal connections that will catapult and sustain professional growth, and help build the value of extraordinary, motivational experiences worldwide. Members include incentive houses, tour operators, hotels, airlines, National Tourism Organisation and others, all who are the key stockholders in the incentives market.

The Site India Chapter launch took place at The Oberoi, Gurgaon. The event was a complete and resounding success and the attendance from the best of the MICE industry was extremely encouraging.

The evening was hosted by the Oberoi Hotels, who were taken on board as Site India’s `2013 Strategic Hospitalitty Partner’.

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angalore International Airport Limited (BIAL) announced the Kaapi Trail encompassing the rich coffee growing regions of South India.

Following the launch of the Kaapi Trail Festival last year, BIAL collaborated with the Ministry of Karnataka Tourism and Thomas Cook (India) Ltd. to fulfil its commitment of making Kaapi Trail a single click bookable experience. The launch was held in Bangalore with the presence of Mr. Sanjay Reddy, Managing Director, BIAL, Mr. Arvind Jadhav, Additional Secretary, Karnataka State Tourism, Mr. Jawaid Akhtar, Chairman Coffee Board and Mr. Madhavan Menon, Managing Director, Thomas Cook (India) Ltd. The Kaapi Trail is a unique concept- a voyage of discovery of South India via the “Journey of the Bean”. As the exclusive Travel Partner, Thomas Cook (India) Ltd, has created a diversity of unique travel packages covering Leisure, Heritage and Adventure Tails. The Trails offer a plethora of opportunities: Learning about the history of coffee and the processing of the bean; engaging with the local culture, traditions and cuisine; stays in ancestral homes and plantations; refreshing mountain treks and cycling tours; Heritage walks with visits to ancient temples and palaces and experiences of wildlife and wilderness via jeep safaris and The Tholpety and Bhadra Sanctuaries.

The trail covers various coffee regions of the south including: Coorg, Chickmagalur, BR Hills, Baba Budangiri, Travancore, Nilgiri Hills, Palani

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ature is calling out to you to witness it at its best! Barely a five hour drive from Bangalore Eka Resorts in Sakleshpur, offers you the opportunity to reconnect with the source of all things blessed and wonderful – Mother Nature. At Eka Resorts, immerse yourself in the rapture around you. Where better to refresh the

mind and cleanse your spirit than surrounded by acres of newly grown spices – cloves, pepper, and cardamom, and the cheerful red berries of coffee ready to be picked. Sakleshpur Taluk accounts for around one third of India’s cardamom production.

This resort offers the ultimate expe-

Hills, Shevroy Hills and Araku Valley. Bengaluru International Airport with this initiative intends to encourage passengers who truly want to explore, taste and live the experience of stunning South India. This will allow travellers the opportunity to register a visit or request for their packages. With a view to promote ecotourism, we have included homestays within the coffee plantation at the chosen destination.

Kaapi Trail is a tourism concept that BIAL built around coffee that connects all the four states of South India with Bangalore. Currently the trail covers coffee regions of Karnataka which include Coorg and Chickmagalur and will soon cover other coffee regions in South India. Thomas Cook India’s Kaapi Trail packages aim at creating value for the region not only through awareness, but also by promoting tourism via experiential travel packages and unique meaningful experiences.

The interactions provide interesting insights into learning the history of coffee, its development through the years, the direct links and impact on the community. Combining unparalleled growth prospects and unlimited potential, the Bengaluru International Airport is on the foyer towards being a key player in the changing face of the regions tourism. Unique opportunities like this will propel tourism in the state and promote knowledge of the region and coffee drinking habit of the state that is core to its heritage.

rience for those wanting a taste of the plantation lifestyle, while surrounded by breathtaking lush vegetation and the cozy self contained cottages, you will never have a dull moment with innumerable activities to enjoy around the area.

Brush out the cobwebs, refresh your spirit, leave all your cares behind. Eka resorts offers a variety of outdoor activities that will take you back to your childhood when your mind and body rejoiced in its strength and vitality. Toss a ball, chase a stick, fly a kite, catch a fish, dream by a glowing fireside at twilight. Billiards, Basketball, Football, Badminton, Cricket, Indoor games, Library with a vast collection of over 1000 English and Kannada books, Kite Flying, Camp Fire, etc. are some of the activities offered by the resort inside its property, while Trekking, Visit to

the nearby Water Falls, Visit to the nearby Picnic Spots, etc. are available outside.

Sakleshpur is famous for the trekking opportunities it offers. One of the most traversed routes is the railway track trek, which as the name suggests, follows an unused railway track stretching from Sakleshpur to Kukke Subrahmanya. The track features almost 109 bridges and 25 gushing waterfalls and is an experience worth exploring. Besides trekking, there are spectacular views of the surrounding mountain ranges. Bisle Gudda or Sunny Mountain is a popular picnic spot as is Bisle Betta also know as Bisle View Point. Avid photographers, nature lovers, trekkers and those with a simple love of the out doors, there is something for everyone at Sakleshpur. So your stay at Eka will never be wasted.

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xperience the magic of the Big Five with Legacy on its exclusive game drives with skilled game rangers, exquisite food and luxurious accommodation at any of the Legacy Bush Lodges.Located in the North West province of South Africa, Pilanesberg National Park is the fourth largest national park in the country and a couple of hours drive from Johannesburg.

Pilanesberg National Park is all natural and offers a true safari experience.. Its laid-back vibe and natural surroundings makes it the perfect foil to Sun City which is a mere 20-minute drive from Legacy’s two prime properties that are located at the entrance of Pilanesburg – Bakabung Bush Lodge and Kwa Maritine Bush Lodge; and about 40 minutes away from Tshukudu Bush Lodge that is set in the heart of the national park.All the lodges can arrange for a shuttle to take you to visit Sun City -- so you can stay with Legacy in the wild and beautiful surroundings of Pilanesberg – and experience South Africa at its best!

Just a two-hour drive from the commercial capital of South Africa, Johannesburg and a 15-minute ride from Sun City, lies Bakabung a place of breath-taking beauty and serenity. Built on the entrance of the malaria-free Pilanesberg National Park, Bakubung offers guests everything they need to get in touch with the bush. Experience the Big Five as you go for guided bush walks, game drives and trails, relish African flavours at the Boma and kids here can participate in the Junior Rangers Programme for 6-12 years olds with educational activities.

Capture the spirit of Africa at Kwa Maritane Bush Lodge, that is located on the slopes of an ancient volcano, which offers guests all the amenities and convenience of a prime resort within the malariafree Pilanesberg National Park.

Have a rejuvenating massage and treatments at the open-to-the-air Kwa Maritane Spa that looks over the park area. Enjoy world class amenities amidst the wilderness of Pilanesberg that is excellent for

game viewing, the Big Five can easily be spotted in the park area. A plus at Kwa Maritane is the interesting game viewing hide that connects with the main lodge via a tunnel..

Stay at the beautiful Bakubung or Kwa Maritane Game Lodges and enjoy COMPLIMENTARY RETURN shuttle to Sun City plus COMPLIMENTARY entrance into Sun City. Legacy Hotels and Resorts now offers an option of swapping the second game drive for the complimentary transfers and entrance. Travellers can now combine Big 5 safari experience with the buzzing bright lights of Sun City without travelling 5 hours back and forth from Johannesburg.

Legacy offers the convenience of the shuttle that departs from both the lodges on the hour and return on the half hour.

The vehicle can take 12 pax per transfer, plus a bigger bus that is permanently stationed at both the lodges can be used in case of groups upto 30 pax.

High up on a hill surrounded by the mountains of the Pilanesberg National Park overlooking a waterhole and savannah plain, lies Tshukudu, one of Africa’s most romantic and exclusive bush lodges. Your experience begins when you climb the natural stone steps to the lodge and are completely cocooned in your own private bliss at Tshukudu. Game walk by and there is no fencing around the property so you are up, close and personal with all the Big Five sightings. Each lodge is completely private and offers a romantic sunken bath, an open plan lounge and bedroom with a lovely nook and window you can look out of, or relax by your very own fireplace or on the

balcony. For a romantic getaway head to Tshukudu, nothing beats the combination of sipping a sundowner while watching the animals at the waterhole.

Its’ perfect for honeymooners because of its privacy!

The Addo Elephant National Park lies in the Eastern Cape.

It is here where the evening’s silence is broken by the howl of the black-backed Jackal and the Francolins’ call heralds each new dawn. With uninterrupted views of the Karoo Plains and the Zuurberg Mountains, Kuzuko Lodge lies in a private concession to the north of the Addo Elephant National Park, the third largest national park in South Africa in a malaria-free region.

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otel Marigold, a recently launched 5-Star property in the heart of Hyderabad city is centrally located luxury property with a soothing Indian contemporary ambience. It is a seamless blend of modern five star luxury and classic Indian architecture. The classic Indian architecture is evident through the use of massive yet simple chandeliers, abstract interiors, traditional lamps and paintings adorning the walls.

The three F & B properties at Marigold provide an enriching dining experience.

Saffron Soul is an all day dining World Cuisine outlet which serves authentic dishes from the kitchens of the world, ranging from Indian to Mexican to Continental. Mekong is the fine dining Pan Asian restaurant which gets its name from the Mekong River that flows through seven countries, thus allowing the guests to experience the culinary delights of these seven countries.

The guests can savor authentic dishes ranging from Japanese, Mongolian, Burmese and Indonesian. The highlight of Mekong is its distinctive interiors and ambience that stands by its name, with blue walls, ceiling resembling waves and genuine Indonesian cutlery giving it a true aqua/river like feel.

Mekong is unique because it is one

ith the opening of a resort hotel in the popular Indian coastal state of Goa, Swissôtel Hotels & Resorts will complement its global portfolio with an additional deluxe hotel. First guests are anticipated to be welcomed in the first quarter 2013.

The Swissôtel Goa is located in the town of Calangute which is one of the most popular tourist destinations in North Goa, only 16 kms from the capital city Panaji and within an hour’s drive

of the very few Pan Asian Specialty outlets in the city, serving authentic Pan Asian food. The Chef, Mr. T. Mukherjee specializes in Pan Asian cuisine, with decades of experience, therefore putting the most authentic and original tastes on the table. Mystique Lounge is a chic lounge that specializes in serving Single Malt, leaving a mark with its out-of-thebox interiors and unique ambience.

The Executive Chef of Hotel Marigold is Mr. Partha Chakravarathy, who has a rich culinary experience of over 25 years and is currently the Executive Chef.

Having worked with renowned hotel chains like The Taj and Le Meridian, among others, he also carries vast international exposure where he has conceptualized, planned, managed F&B services and guest services and set award winning standards for the same.

from Goa’s international airport. The 135 guestrooms and suites are designed and proportioned among eight three level buildings, which are set within a tropical garden featuring idyllic lily ponds and a courtyard pool area. Rooms vary in size between 31 m and 72 m, depending on category, and feature modern design elements. An all-day dining restaurant, pool bar, cafe, fitness centre, adult and children’s pools, children’s club, as well as conference and banquet facilities will delight even the most discerning guests.

The hotel will also have an exclusive beach club for its guests on Calangute beach.

Designed by Malaysian Architects Chong Chee Ching and Greg Dall, the elements in the lobby and throughout the resort are accented by numerous works by the Indian artist Krishna Mehta are distributed throughout the resort which present modern and colourful design highlights.

The most important night-life happenings and restaurants of North Goa are only a few minutes’ walk from Swissôtel Goa.

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homas Cook (India) Ltd, India’s leading integrated travel and travel related financial services company, has launched international group escorted tours, specially designed for its Gujarati customers. The guided tours ranging between 17 – 20 days will commence from April 1, 2013 with departures from Mumbai & Ahmedabad.

Thomas Cook India’s consumer researched had revealed strong growth from its Gujarati markets, and in a focused endeavour to tap this segment, its product experts have designed a personalised product for its valued Gujarati customers.

The special tailor-made tours offer its Gujarati travellers a home away from home experience with professional, friendly Gujarati speaking tour managers, Gujarati brochures and the added comfort of home

cook meals- including favourites such as Theplas, Dal Dhokli, Khandvi, Kadhi, and more.

The Aavo Amari Saathe package of 16 Nights / 17 Days will cater UK, Netherlands, Belgium, Germany, Switzerland, Geneva, Vevey, Liechtenstein, Austria, Italy, Vatican and France. 19 Nights / 20 Days package named Aavo Amari Saathe with Scotland of UK, Netherlands, Belgium, Germany, Switzerland, Geneva, Vevey, Liechtenstein, Austria, Italy, Rome, Vatican, France 19 Nights / 20 Days package named Aavo Amari Saathe with France will market for tourists from UK, Netherlands, Belgium, Germany, Switzerland, Liechtenstein, Austria, Italy, Vatican, Monaco, Monte Carlo and France.

The all inclusive Gujarati tours come with the assurance of visas, airfare, taxes, hotel accommodation, meals, quality sightseeing with minimum travel time; and all of this at unbeatable pricing.

Mr. Madhav Pai, Director – Leisure Travel (Outbound), Thomas Cook (India) Ltd said, “In recognition of the consistent and strong support from our Gujarati markets, we at Thomas Cook India have designed very special packages that cater to important aspects like language & food, to offer our loyal Gujarati customers an exceptional holiday experience. To add to customer delight, we have handpicked experienced Gujarati speaking Tour Managers to ensure delivery of the vital elements of expertise and customer care. For that final touch, we have leveraged our buying clout as India’s largest travel services company to offer our Gujarati travellers unbeatable value pricing.”

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his Valentine’s Day travel beyond the routine flowers, champagne, chocolates ... to script your own special story in the coffee country of Chikmagalur…or beside the flowing waters of the river Kabini…or beneath the starry night in the wildlife reserve of Bandipur. The Serai invites you to celebrate your day of love in some of the most romantic resorts in the country with a bouquet of once-in-a-lifetime experiences.

The Serai has something designed for everyone…put on your dancing shoes and enroll for salsa classes…or pamper yourself with a range of couple spa therapies…or indulge in spiritual rejuvenation with yoga sessions for couples. The various versions of a romantic Valentine’s dinner, conceptualized by The Serai, is sure to sweep you off your feet

with options ranging from a five-course candlelight meal on a machaan in Bandipur to a feast under a 100-year-old banyan tree, amidst a sprawling coffee estate in Chikmagalur.

If you are the outdoorsy type, there are several activities specially crafted for you. The Serai, Chikmagalur arranges for plantation walks with guides, to clue you in to the intricacies of coffee. For those seeking adventure, a kayaking trip down the River Kabini allows you to catch a glimpse of the exotic flora and fauna found in the region and a jungle safari into the Bandipur National Park - home to the majestic Indian tiger, offers you abundant sightings of wildlife.

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he state of Tamil Nadu has something to offer to its every visitor. Whether you are a culture seeker, a pilgrim making his steady progress, an adventure buff or a history lover, you will surely find something about this unique land that will catch your fancy. The picturesque, green Udhagamandalam better known as Ooty, is the most popular hill station of not just Tamil Nadu, but the whole of South. Located in the Western ghats at a height of 2240m, Udhagamandalam is the headquarters of the Nilgiri (meaning blue hill) district where the two ghats ranges meet. Conoor (19 km) and Wellington, two sleepy towns, are close to it and comprise the other hill stations of the Nilgiri District.

It is also the starting point of the Nilgiri Mountain Railway, built in 1908 by Britishers, which is an engineering marvel.

The ride to the plains on the hundred year old mini-train never fails to bring out the child in every adult!

Located 89 kms from Coimbatore, Ooty deservedly earns its reputation as the ‘Queen of Hill Stations’ for its extensive tea plantations, lakes and other natural splendours. Nature has been generous with this region, which is by far the most beautiful in the state. Apart from coffee and tea plantations, trees like conifers, eucalyptus, pine and wattle dot the hillside in Udhagamandalam and its environs.

Uprooting the common belief that Ooty’s economy thrives on tourism, it is still largely dependent on agriculture, notable for the cultivation of ‘English Fruits and Vegetables’ grown locally.

It has a subtropical highland climate with the summer temperature rarely going higher than 250c and lower than 100c and winter is distinctly cooler with a high of 210c and a low 50c. Curiously enough, this slice of paradise remained unknown to the great southern dynasties and it took the British to discover it in the early 1800s. They were, however, not the first

inhabitants of this land as a tribe called Todas had been living there long before the British came, claiming that the Nilgiris had been their home since time immemorial.

Later, the Todas handed over the land to the then Governor of Coimbatore, John Sullivan. But the credit for modernising Udhagamandalam and making it accessible goes to the British who constructed the first railway line in the area and made it the summer capital of the Madras Presidency.

Nilgiri is India’s first biosphere.

It has been declared as one of the 14 ‘hotspots’ of the world because of its unique bio-diversity. Nilgiri presents a truly breath taking kaleidoscope of visual treats and soul stirring experience with its rolling grasslands, dense sholas, waterfalls, streams, lakes, vast expanse of tea plantations, interspersed with vegetable gardens, spectacular view points, an amazing variety of flora and fauna, fabulous trekking trails, innumerable heritage sites, spell binding sunrises and sunsets, magical light, pollution free atmosphere, mist, clouds, fog, star studded skies, serenity etc. It is one of the oldest mountain ranges, located at the tri-junction of Tamil Nadu, Kerala and Karnataka.

Ooty is a best place to know the culture and tradition of India and tribal people.

Government Rose Garden and the Ooty Botanical Garden remain to be the spots cherry-picked by all tourists. Ooty lake boating is a remarkable spot which highly entertains the tourist. On the hills above the Botanical Garden are a few Toda huts where Todas still dwell. The huts are a remarkable structure and a must see. Stone House, St. Stephen’s Church, Wax World, Golg Course, Tribal Museum, Lamb’s rock and Dobabetta peak, Kalhatty falls kandal, cross shrine, mini garden, Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary and National Park are some of the other tourist spots of Ooty. To feel the touch of nature, Ooty is a right spot for the lover of nature.

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n a bid to further expand its reach in India, the Canadian Tourism Commission, (CTC) India organised a three-city workshop in Chennai, Hyderabad and Kolkata in December 2012.

Following their new marketing strategy of expanding their sales network, CTC has decided to conduct workshop and sessions across several Indian cities. This new move is expected to enhance the number of Indian travellers to Canada.

During the workshop, CTC Team India interacted with over 300 travel agents while giving a presentation on Canada. The presentation highlighted various Canadian provinces and also educated the trade on Visa procedures.

The Tourism Board will also continue to conduct trade seminars and market places

in major cities; focussing on FITs (free independent travellers), SECs and Visa awareness along with developing co-op programmes with tour operators.

Over the years, Canada has been recognised as a major tourist destination and is ranked as the second most powerful country in the world, as per the Country Brand Index (CBI), published this year. The destination is relatively new in the Indian market however the good sign is that there will be growth every year.

The Year-to-Date Indian arrivals directly into Canada till September are 121,662, a growth of +7.75 per cent over the same period last year. CTC India is looking forward to close this year with a strong growth.

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General Manager, Human Resources for the individual award at a ceremony in December.

emon Tree Hotels has been conferred the NCPEDP-Shell Helen Keller Award, 2012 for the work towards promoting employment opportunities for people with disabilities in two categories in Category C: Role Model Organizations and Category B: Role Model Non-Disabled Individuals.

The NCPEDP-Shell Helen Keller award was instituted in 1999. It is awarded every year to those individuals or organizations who have been doing exemplary work in helping disabled people find positions of equality and dignity in the workplace.

This is the second occasion when the Lemon Tree group has been honoured with this award. Lemon Tree Hotels also won this award in 2010. Also, the group won the NCPEDP-mPhasis Award for Universal Design in 2011. LTH currently has over 100 differently-abled employees across its 19 properties in India.

Talking about the award, Mr. Patu Keswani, Chairman & Managing Director of Lemon Tree Hotels said, “We are happy that we have been able to make a difference with our effort in hiring and training Employees With Disabilities (EWDs). By creating an environment in the organization that allows them to deliver their best, we are able to play a part, however small, in social inclusiveness and nation building.”

The award was received by Major Rajesh Chauhan, Chief People Officer on behalf of Lemon Tree Hotels and R. Hari,

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he Sapporo Snow Festival, one of Japan’s largest winter events, attracts a growing number of visitors from Japan and abroad every year. Every winter, about two million people come to Sapporo to see the hundreds of beautiful snow statues and ice sculptures which line Odori Park, the grounds at Tsudome, and the main street in Susukino.

For seven days in February, these statues and sculptures (both large and small) turn Sapporo into a winter dreamland of crystal-like ice and white snow.

The Snow Festival began in 1950, when local high school students built six snow statues in Odori Park in 1955, the SelfDefense Force joined in and built the very first massive snow sculpture, for which the Snow Festival has become famous for now.

The Festival has grown from these humble beginnings to become one of the biggest and most well known of Hokkaido’s winter events.

The Snow Festival is considered to be a festival of internationalcaliber.

Odori Park stretches from east to west through the center of downtown

Sapporo and represents the main festival site. here, you can see a variety of snow and ice sculptures, many of which have an international flavor. There are other snow stages located here and featuring a variety of entertainment.

The Sapporo Snow Festival will be held at Sapporo Tsudome. At this site, one can enjoy the charms of winter in Hokkaido, including snow slides and mazes, the snow experience corner, and regional delicacies.

An ice sculpture show will be held in Ekimae-dori (Station Avenue) located between South 4 and South 6. Ice sculptures with real crabs, squids, and salmon are featured in this show. During the festival, a variety of events will be taking place at the Susukino site including the Ice Sculpture Contest and a special photo opportunity to see the Ice Queen.

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anarsidas Chandiwala Institute of Hotel Management and Catering Technology announce the India International Hotel, Travel & Tourism Research Conference commencing from 29th to 31st January.

BCIHMCT has been conducting Annual International Conferences over the past few years involving the Hospitality Industry. The aim of this conference is to bring industry managers, tourism and hospitality researchers together to deliberate on the issues related to the travel and hospitality business. This conference will reveal the needs of guests, problems in performance and empowerment practices to improve quality of service along with the needed changes in the Hospitality and Tourism practices.

Professor J.S. Perry Hobson, Pro ViceChancellor for the Division of Hospitality, Tourism and Culinary Art at Taylor’s University (Malaysia), the Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of Vacation Marketing and member of the Board of Directors of International Centre of Excellence in Tourism & Hospital-

ity Education (THE-ICE) shall be among the Key Speakers deliberating on “Innovations in Hospitality and Tourism”. Dr. Hobson who has worked in the hospitality and tourism sectors in various countries, says that the key to changing the industry and academia at the same time is thinking out of the box. At the conference, being one of the world’s best industry practitioners, he would be sharing what lies ahead for the hospitality industry in the coming years and would emphasize upon delivering the workplace competencies through curriculum.

The conference will profile formal presentations, developing a theme in each conference session, along with industry related forums and workshops broadly covering MICE Management; Sustaining Environment in Tourism & Hospitality; Human Resources: Issues and Challenges; Hotel Operations Management: Issues and Challenges; Food, Culture and life styles and impact of Social Media on Tourism and Hospitality.

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ing in opaque/bargain fares and online travel portals have removed these from their respective websites, as per information furnished by the DGCA. However, no complaint of fictitious booking has been received by DGCA. DGCA has issued Civil Aviation Requirements (CAR) Section 3, series M, Part III on Computer Reservation System (CRS)/ Global Distribution System (GDS), which has the provision that subscriber shall not make fictitious reservations in the CRS/ GDS and shall not resort to any abusive ticketing practice.

irectorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) received complaints from a few domestic airlines in March 2012 that certain on-line travel portals were selling airline tickets under opaque/bargain fare wherein the identity of the airline and flight details were not being displayed upfront.

DGCA had stepped in and issued a Public Notice directing the airlines to immediately withdraw participation in any such scheme where the complete information about the carrier is not revealed upfront. At present, no scheduled domestic airline is participat-

angaur is a significant festival of Rajasthan, especially meant for the women. The word Gangaur is derived from two words, ‘Gan’ and ‘Gauri’ which are synonyms of ‘Siva’ and his consort ‘Parvati’ respectively who together symbolize ‘saubhagya’ meaning marital bliss. Gangaur festival of Rajasthan is celebrated in the honor of Goddess Gauri, who is considered the symbol of virtue and fidelity and is the mythological role model of married women. It is believed that she holds all the qualities of a good wife. Gangaur festival of Rajasthan celebrates the union of the two and is a symbol of conjugal and marital happiness.

Gangaur festival is celebrated in the month of chaitra (March-April), the first month of the Hindu calendar. This month marks the end of winter and the onset of spring. The festival of Gangaur starts with the subsequent day of Holi and persists for 18 days.

The womenfolk worship Gauri with all the means of devotion. The married women worship Gauri for the well-being of their husband, while the unmarried girls worship to get the husband of their choice. This is also an auspicious day for young people to select their life partners. A newly-wedded girl observes a fast for the full course of 18 days of the

festival that succeeds her marriage. Even unmarried girls fast and eat only one meal a day. Colourful processions with the town band playing horses and elaborate palanquins make it a fascinating spectacle.

This worship which starts form the first day of the chaitra month culminates on the 18th day with a great religious fervor.

The festival begins with the custom of gathering ashes from the Holi Fire and burying the seeds of barley in it. After it, the seeds are watered everyday awaiting the germination. They carry painted matkas (water pots) on their heads.

They also make images of Gauri and Isar (Shiva) with clay. During the last days of the festival, the celebration reaches to its height. On the final day, lively images of Gauri are taken out in procession escorted by traditionally dressed camels, bullock carts, horses and elephants. Songs are sung about the departure of Gauri to her husband’s home, thus culminating the 18 day festival of Gangaur.

Edited, Printed and Published by Ravisankar K.V. for Tourism India Publications Pvt. Ltd., Printed at Arsha Offset Graphix Sreehari, TC 9/2519-1, Janvilla Lane, Vellayambalam, Thiruvananthapuram 695 019 and Published from TC 9/1785, Anandam, Pattanikkunnu Lane, Sasthamangalam P.O,Thiruvananthapuram-695010. Editor: Ravisankar K.V.

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Postal Reg. No. KL/TV (N) 432/2012-2014