TOURISM INDIA JULY 2020

INCREDIBLE INDIA

WONDERFUL WORLD AIRLINES ONLINE TECHNOLOGY

JULY 2020 VOL. 23 NO. 03 Pages 64

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tourismindiamagazine

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WTTC ESTIMATES 197 MN JOBS AT RISK TOURISM CAN PROMOTE SOLIDARITY AND TRUST AVIATION INDUSTRY LOSSES TO $84 BN IN 2020

COVID 19 & TOURISM

LOCKDOWNED DREAMS

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Editor’s Note

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Time to Rethink Tourism for the Future

ow we have entered a new phase that needs the strength to fight the virus while managing daily life routines at the same time. The entire tourism ecosystem is in shock with the COVID-19 pandemic and it is not so easy to kick-start and recover quickly with confidence and security as we think Still, it is not yet clear when a more widespread re-opening of borders will happen and under what conditions. Even borders are open, mandatory 14 day quarantine periods for people coming from abroad Industry players have been proactive in maintaining social distance and cleaning and hygiene standards, operating standards and protocols to protect the workers, restoring the confidence of travellers, Tourism recovery plans which the Government takes this time will shape tourism of Tomorrow. The pandemic impact on the Tourism economy is still difficult to quantify and to reopen the sector is overall complex and challenging.

Now we require a joined-up approach to reopen and rebuild the destinations. The hurdles count from the restoration of traveller confidence and stimulation of demand with new safe and clean labels, promotional campaigns for domestic tourism promotion, and so on.

Now we require a joined-up approach to reopen and rebuild the destinations. The hurdles count from the restoration of traveller confidence and stimulation of demand with new safe and clean labels, promotional campaigns for domestic tourism promotion, and so on.

Movement and interaction of people are an essential part of the tourism sector and in the moment of social distancing and travel restrictions, and phased basis to

open tourism activities are among the last to restart and even open it will be only under new operating procedures in the absence of a vaccine.

Tourism is a labour Intensive service sector and one of the major sources of employment ranges from highly skilled to the low skilled category of jobs and part-time, seasonal, and temporary jobs, which are hardly affected directly by the crisis.

The other issues of the pandemic are how to welcome visitors will be in the destinations, since the negative perception is in the air like tourists are risk carriers, and local communities in destinations reclaimed their local areas which were experiencing overcrowding issues associated with high visitor volumes.

Domestic tourism economy plays an important role in the sector and 75 percent of the total tourism economy in OECD countries has come through it but domestic tourism flow is also affected .but it is expected that Domestic tourism is will play an important role in leading the initial recovery phase of Tourism.

7 Recovery from the crisis is now expected to be lifted only gradually and be slower. We would have to use this crisis as an opportunity to rethink tourism for the future, through the preparation of comprehensive recovery plans for more sustainable and resilient tourism.

Rajani A Editor

JULY March 2020 2020 TOURISM TourismINDIA India

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Contents JULY 2020

VOL 23 NO 03

MANAGING EDITOR Ravisankar K V EDITOR Rajani A EXECUTIVE EDITOR Raadia Mukadam ASSOCIATE EDITOR G. Ajithkumar ART EDITOR N Bhattathiri DIRECTOR - DESIGNS Anand Sankar PHOTOGRAPHERS Vivek R. Nair, Murukesh Iyer

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TOURISM CAN PROMOTE SOLIDARITY AND TRUST: UN

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WTTC guide lines Safe and Seamless Travel in the ‘new normal’

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Even small turn could boost the Economy

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We’re ready - passengers can fly with confidence

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COVID 19 IMPACT;WTTC ESTIMATES 197 mn jobs will be lost

BUSINESS & EDITORIAL ASSOCIATES

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EDITORIAL & CORPORATE OFFICE TOURISM INDIA PUBLICATIONS PVT. LTD A-29, KUMARA VILAS, ELANKOM GARDENS, VELLAYAMBALAM, SASTHAMANGALAM P.O., TRIVANDRUM, KERALA, INDIA 695010 TEL: +91 471 2315256 MOB: 9947160531 CONTACT US Editorial Enquiries editor@tourismindiaonline.com Mob: +91 9847060531 Advertisement Enquiries marketing@tourismindiaonline.com Mob: +91 9745598126 Circulation & Subscription Enquiries circulation@tourismindiaonline.com Mob: +91 9947160531 Online Edition www.tourismindia.org www.tourismindiaonline.com Digital Edition: https://issue.com/tourismindia No part of this magazine may be reproduced without the written permission of TOURISM INDIA PUBLICATIONS PVT LTD. All rights reserved Copyright @2020 Printed and Published by Ravisankar K V on behalf of TOURISM INDIA PUBLICATIONS PVT LTD, A-29, Kumara Vilas, Elankom Gardens, Vellayambalam, Sasthamangalam P.O., Trivandrum 695010 at Aarsha Offset Graphix, Mettukkada, Thycaud.P.O., Trivandrum- 695014 Editor: Rajani A

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AVIATION Industry Losses to Top $84 Bn in 2020

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COVID-19 Scientific Summit

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Destinations gets WTTC Safe Travels stamp

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BEND OUR TREND Campaign for Climate Friendly Travel What COVID-19 Means For Ecotourism

Contents 34

Brigade Hospitality awarded as 3rd among India’s Great Mid-size Workplaces 2020

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PRIDE HOTELS WELCOMES GUESTS WITH ‘DRIVECATION’ PACKAGES

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Harnessing Science & Technology to Continue the Fight against Covid-19

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Workation at Signature Club Resort

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Snake Worship Across the borders, Beyond the time

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Brand USA Virtually Celebrates American Independence Day in India

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IndiGo JETS FOR VANDE BHARAT MISSION & Fly stress free wiit! Book 2 seats for 1

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Qatar Airway’s Global Network Increases

481

AIR ASIA EBITDA BREAKEVEN DESPITE REVENUE DOWN 15%

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Malaysia Land of promising smiles by Nipuna Sudha

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PORTUGAL IS OPEN

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REDISCOVER MALDIVES...THE SUNNY SIDE OF LIFE

JULY 2020 TOURISM INDIA

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NEWS / INTERNATIONAL AIRLINE NEWS

TOURISM CAN PROMOTE SOLIDARITY A AND TRUST:

Tourism is an essential pillar of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development

UN SECRETARYGENERAL ANTONIO GUTERRES

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s UNWTO leads the restart of tourism, the Secretary-General of the United Nations has sent a landmark message to the world, highlighting the sector’s unique role in advancing the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and in protecting the most vulnerable members of our societies.

As the world faces the devastating consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic, the tourism sector is among those being affected most severely. Travel is down, fear is up, and the future is

the global cooperation that is so urgently needed at this time.

The United Nations World Tourism Organization is strongly committed to this work. I encourage all those involved in the tourism sector to explore how we can recover better, including through climate action and other steps that advance sustainability and build resilience. On our journey toward a better future, we must uphold our pledge to leave no one behind.

Mr. ANTONIO GUTERRES SECRETARY-GENERAL UNITED NATIONS

Tourism can be a platform for overcoming the pandemic. By bringing people together, tourism can promote solidarity and trust – crucial ingredients in advancing the global cooperation that is so urgently needed at this time

uncertain.

Tourism is an essential pillar of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. The livelihoods of many depend on it, especially women and particularly in the world’s most vulnerable countries, including Small Island Developing States and Least Developed Countries. Moreover,11 in many parts of the world, the protection of biodiversity relies heavily on the tourist sector, from conservation to the revenue generated by those efforts.

Tourism can be a platform for overcoming the pandemic. By bringing people together, tourism can promote solidarity and trust – crucial ingredients in advancing JULY 2020 TOURISM INDIA

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NEWS/ GLOBAL TRENDS

WTTC

GUIDE LINES SAFE AND SEAMLESS TRAVEL IN THE ‘NEW NORMAL’

The welfare of travellers and the millions of people employed throughout the Travel & Tourism sector was at the heart of the protocols and were backed by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO).

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o rebuild global consumer confidence and encourage the return of Safe Travels, WTTC has laid out its new guidelines Safe & Seamless Travel on the back of a series of measures including testing and tracing.

The guidelines will ensure that the travel sector is provided with an extensive framework to help governments and private businesses work in collaboration to create aligned testing and contact tracing programmes To ensure people can enjoy Safe Travels in the ‘new normal’.

The initiative is part of the WTTC’s Safe and Seamless Traveller Journey (SSTJ) which aims to enable a seamless, safe, and secure end-toend traveller experience including flights and non-air travel. It includes systematic biometric verified

identification during the journey, for the long haul and international travel, replacing manual verifications.

Travellers and those who work in the Travel & Tourism sector can be assured of a more secure and safe environment, through the use of contactless technology which includes biometrics, faster clearance for inbound and outbound passengers, and offsite processing as part of enhanced SSTJ capabilities which helps to reduce transmission.

The detection and isolation of those people with the virus have proved to be an effective mechanism to curb previous outbreaks. This has enabled them to travel again without a vaccine, as in previous outbreaks such as Ebola, SARS, and MERS. Since 80 % of COVID-19 carriers are asymptomatic according to medical experts, testing and tracing become

crucial to control and reduce the transmission.

The resulting principles and recommendations of the new guideline frameworks will help governments who require testing, tracing, receipt of a traveller test/vaccination certificate, and COVID-19 specific traveller health insurance to include them as part of their overall recovery plan.

By encouraging its global adoption, WTTC aims to ensure aligned and consistent messaging through coordinated, collaborative, and transparent partnerships across the Travel & Tourism sector.

Ms. Gloria Guevara, WTTC President & CEO, said: “The safety and hygiene of travellers are paramount. This is why our new guidelines for Safe and Seamless Travel including testing and tracing, are designed to assist

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NEWS/ GLOBAL TRENDS in the recovery of Travel & Tourism through the identification and/or isolation of infected travellers.

“This is consistent with advice from WHO and other leading health authorities that the best way to control and reduce the spread of the COVID-19 virus, is through early identification of carriers to ensure they don’t travel.

“The new WTTC guidelines mean that we can now replace the confusing mix of different measures including highly-damaging quarantines, which currently exist, to offer confidence to travellers and governments alike while protecting public health.

“Travel ‘bubbles’ or ‘corridors’ between low-risk COVID-19 areas/ zones or countries will also help limit testing requirements for travellers and support efforts by governments and private businesses working in partnership together to stimulate traveller demand.”

Mr. Dan Richards, Global Rescue CEO, said: “According to the Global Rescue survey of members, nearly

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80% of travellers expect to return to the airways and roadways.

Travellers are prepared to be tested, and 91% of people interviewed are willing to share personal medical history, and their travel plans as a pre-condition to returning to travel.

They are willing and eager to help keep themselves and those around them safe.”

Support quick and reliable tests as a critical path to ensure the public health and a rapid testing and contact tracing strategy to help contain the spread of the virus, Multilateral collaboration and adherence to internationally recognized guidelines to enable ‘approved travellers’ to travel across to multiple destinations using a single process and risk assessment framework, Support travel ‘bubbles’ or ‘tourism corridors’ between low-risk COVID-19 areas/zones or countries based on recognised criteria on what constitutes low, medium and high risk and where the original government and the destination government agree,

Remove blanket travel advisories and recommendations against nonessential international travel as this prevents insurance protection for travellers, as countries re-open, and Support a global standard of traveller health insurance, are the five critical calls identified by WTTC to action to governments during the COVID-19 recovery.

Safe Travels Protocols were developed for the global Travel & Tourism sector which focused on measures to drive business to car hire companies, airports, tour operators, attractions, short shortterm rentals among many other travel sectors, to enable them to follow strict health and hygiene regimes to re-opening for business.

The welfare of travellers and the millions of people employed throughout the Travel & Tourism sector was at the heart of the protocols and were backed by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO).

‘A little goes a long way’

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new analysis carried out by WTTC shows that even relatively minor increases in travelling would bring significant economic and job benefits. EU economies struggling to survive following the imposition of travel restrictions to combat the spread of coronavirus could be boost by a modest increase of just one million more international arrivals into Europe which could generate an extra $0.48 billion in GDP, reads the new research from the World Travel & Tourism Council.

Many governments are evaluating reciprocal ‘travel corridors, including the UK government and those in Europe which are under immense pressure, to enable holidaymakers to take summer holidays and prevent the collapse of the Travel & Tourism sector.

For every 1% increase in international arrivals*, a massive $7.23 billion in additional GDP would be generated. So, an increase of 100 million international arrivals – equivalent to an increase of 6.7% – would result in around $48 billion in additional GDP. Ms. Gloria Guevara, WTTC President & CEO, said: “We know restarting the Travel & Tourism sector is a huge challenge, but the economy can be restarted while

For every 1% increase in international arrivals*, a massive $7.23 billion in additional GDP would be generated

EVEN SMALL TURN COULD BOOST THE ECONOMY also prioritising and protecting the health of travellers and those who work in the sector. “It is vital that governments ensure that the right measures are in place, such as protocols and a comprehensive testing and tracing programme.

However, WTTC research makes it clear that even a modest 15 resumption of travelling can have massive economic benefits and bring thousands of desperately needed jobs back; providing a critical boost for the struggling Travel & Tourism sector and generating desperately needed GDP for economies left floundering after being struck by the pandemic”.

“It’s often said ‘a little goes a long way’; now our figures prove it. Every additional one million international arrivals from outside Europe would

be able to generate nearly half a billion extra dollars in GDP. “We encourage governments to do all that they can to ease the lockdowns and travel restrictions to allow the resumption of responsible travelling. Guided by WTTC’s Safe and Seamless Travel initiative, it should include testing and tracing, consistent with advice from WHO and local health authorities.

“Together, we can control and reduce the spread of COVID-19 and at the same time protect public health and bring confidence back to travellers and to the wider travel sector.”

WTTC has been at the forefront of leading the private sector in the drive to rebuild global consumer confidence and encourage the return of Safe Travels.

JULY 2020 TOURISM INDIA

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NEWS / AVIATION

WE’RE READY -

PASSENGERS CAN FLY WITH CONFIDENCE Airlines and airports issue clear message as EC calls for lifting of all intra-EU travel restrictions from 15 June.

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CI EUROPE (Airports Council International), the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and Airlines for Europe (A4E), representing Europe’s airports and airlines has welcomed and amplified the European Commission’s call for the complete lifting on 15 June of remaining intra-EU travel restrictions (including quarantines), as well as its proposed approach for starting to phase out restrictions for travel from/to other countries as of 1 July.

The three aviation associations urged all EU and associated States to follow through on the Commission’s advice, pointing to the comprehensive aviation health and safety Protocol now in place – jointly developed by EASA (European Union Aviation Safety Agency) and the ECDC (European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control)

and aligned with the global guidance of the International Civil Aviation Organization.

As the lifting of intra-European travel and border restrictions related to COVID-19 allows passenger traffic to resume, airports and airlines are implementing enhanced biosafety measures at every step of the passenger journey, making the airport and aircraft environments exceptionally sanitized and controlled public spaces.

The latter was fully recognized by EASA – as the safety agency reiterated its support of the aviation industry’s restart. EASA especially emphasized the confidence that passengers can have in the health and safety measures in place throughout Europe.

“In close cooperation with ECDC, EASA produced comprehensive guidelines that set the foundation for a return to service for the avi-

ACI EUROPE represents over 500 airports in 45 European countries and Airlines for Europe (A4E) is Europe’s largest airline association, based in Brussels. ation industry and recovery from this unprecedented crisis,” said EASA Executive Director Patrick Ky. “The aim was to allow travel and tourism to be relaunched safely in the summer months, as soon as governments and public health authorities open up their borders.

We are confident that, providing individuals behave responsibly and abide by the measures being put in place by airports and airlines, passengers can return to the skies with confidence.”

Olivier Jankovec, Director General of ACI EUROPE said: “The aviation industry has the safety of its passengers, staff and communities running through its DNA. As we all re-emerge from the peak of the pandemic, airports 17 and airlines are right there at the forefront of ensuring that we can all kick-start our economies - and frankly our daily lives - with confidence and security. This is why it is essential that governments play ball and now fully lift the remaining restrictions to intra-Europe travel. They also need to follow the plan

set out by the Commission to start lifting restrictions with the rest of the world.”

Rafael Schvartzman, IATA’s Regional Vice President for Europe said: “Safety is the top priority.

Health and industry experts have created the guidance needed for a safe re-start of aviation and preserve the livelihoods of 9.4 million jobs across the European Union.

The Commission’s recommendation to open the Schengen borders is based on this guidance. States must now follow the Commission and fully restore the free movement of people within the EU as of next week. They also need to work hand-in-hand to start lifting travel restrictions with the wider world as per the risk-based and targeted approach set out by the Commission.”

Thomas Reynaert, Managing Director of A4E, added “Lifting border restrictions and health-related measures following a coordinated and risk-based approach is important to make travelling a smooth and enjoyable experience again.

Mutual recognition of measures – based on the EASA-ECDC comprehensive guidelines – is the best and fastest way forward. We all want to see people enjoy air travel as they did before the coronavirus crisis. If governments coordinate their response, we are prepared to provide a confident and safe travel experience – as we have done before. These welcome developments also shine a light on the need for the UK to urgently reconsider its stance regarding the current blanket quarantine applying to anyone entering the country’’.

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NEWS / GLOBAL TRENDS

COVID 19 IMPACT; WTTC ESTIMATES 197 MN JOBS WILL BE LOST

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ore than 197 million jobs could be lost in the global Travel & Tourism sector if barriers to global travel, such as blanket anti-travel advisories and quarantine measures remain in place, according to new research from the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC).

The devastating figure comes from WTTC economic modelling, which looks at the impact faced by the Travel & Tourism sector amid local and global travel restrictions as a result of COVID-19.

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where restrictions were lifted after the summer, the impact would be more significant, putting a total of 197.5m million jobs at risk. This represents an alarming 96 percent rise from the most recent 100.8 million jobs WTTC had previously estimated to be under threat from the coronavirus pandemic.

The research shows that if these travel restrictions were removed sooner, it could save a staggering 99.3m jobs. The impact of prolonged travel restrictions could also wipe out $5,543 billion in the sector’s contribution to global GDP,

• WTTC says Governments must act now to save the sector; Prolonged travel restrictions and lack of urgency will result in the loss of $5.5 trillion in T&T GDP and Worstcase scenario can be avoided if governments around the world follow four-point plan for recovery and start easing restrictions now, ahead of the summer equating to a 62% percent drop compared with 2019.

Meanwhile, in the worst-case scenario, global international arrivals will suffer a sharp decline of 73% and 64% for domestic arrivals.

Ms. Gloria Guevara, WTTC President & CEO, said: “We are deeply saddened by the loss of so many lives and the devastating impact on families around the world because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“This terrible virus has also had a crushing global socio-economic impact, which is threatening the jobs of millions of people who very

livelihoods depend upon a thriving Travel & Tourism sector for their survival.

“Unfortunately, our new modeling reveals the depth of the longterm impact facing the global Travel & Tourism industry if travel restrictions continue for an extended period of time.

“Under our worst-case scenario, prolonged travel restrictions could put more than 197 million jobs under threat and cause a loss of more than $5.5 trillion to global Travel & Tourism GDP. “The sector’s recovery will be delayed by heavy-handed restrictions just as it emerges from one of the most punishing periods in its history – in addition to the airlines, the entire travel ecosystem will suffer

According to WTTC’s 2020 Economic Impact Report, during 2019, Travel & Tourism supported one in 10 jobs (330 million total), making a 10.3% contribution to global GDP and generating one in four of all new jobs.

including millions of SME’s.

“Hotels, destinations, travel agents and others will all be devastated by the economic domino effect of prolonged restrictions on movement, plunging millions of travel businesses and their employees into financial ruin.”

WTTC has carried out extensive research this week and its expert analysis came up with three possible outcomes for the sector.

The Worst-case scenario of Current restrictions starting to ease from September for short-haul and regional travel, from October for mid-haul and from November for long-haul.

In this scenario, 197.5 million jobs could be lost in the global Travel & Tourism sector, with a

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NEWS / GLOBAL TRENDS loss of $5,543 billion in global GPD. Meanwhile, global visitor numbers would drop by 73% for international arrivals.

In Baseline scenario, Current restrictions starting to ease from June for regional travel, July for short-haul or regional travel; from August for mid-haul, and from September for long-haul.

In this scenario, a total of 121.1 million jobs could be lost in the global Travel & Tourism sector, with a loss of $3,435 billion in global GDP. Meanwhile, global visitor numbers would drop by 53% for international arrivals and by 34% for domestic arrivals.

In Best-case scenario, Current measures starting to ease from June for short-haul and regional

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travel; from July for mid-haul and from August for long-haul.

In this scenario, a total of 98.2 million jobs could be lost in the Travel & Tourism sector, half the number in the worst-case scenario, with a loss of $2,686 billion in global GDP. Meanwhile, global visitor numbers would drop by 41% for international arrivals and by 26% for domestic arrivals.

While the best-case scenario would undoubtedly still result in a devastating blow for Travel & Tourism, this outcome avoids unnecessary additional harm to the sector as a result of prolonged travel restrictions and protects almost 100 million jobs around the world that could otherwise be lost.

WTTC has recommended four-

point plan to achieve best-case scenario for the global Travel & Tourism sector if Governments around the globe follow three steps.

Firstly, the immediate removal and replacement of any quarantine measures, with ‘air corridors’ to countries with similar circumstances to stimulate the Travel & Tourism sector and the global economy, as well as the removal of travel advisories and bans on non- essential international travel, which prevent insurance protection cover for travellers.

Secondly, the adoption of global health and safety protocols, such as the ‘Safe Travels’ initiative recently launched by WTTC, to provide assurance to travellers

that enhanced health and hygiene measures are in place and that it is safe to travel again.

Thirdly, the implementation of a rapid test and trace strategy to help contain the spread of the virus, while allowing people to travel responsibly at home and abroad.

The sustained collaboration between the public and private sectors to ensure a coordinated global approach to the crisis.

Ms. Guevara added: “The health and safety of both travellers and those working within the sector are paramount. That’s why we have recommended the opening of ‘travel corridors’ between countries which have controlled the spread of the virus and provided imme-

diate support for the entire Travel & Tourism ecosystem.

This will be vital to kick-start the economic recovery and rebuild the livelihoods of millions of people.”

Ms. Gloria Guevara President & CEO WTTC

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By Aradhana Khowala CEO & Founder, Aptamind Partners

NEWS / AVIATION

AVIATION INDUSTRY LOSSES TO TOP $84 BN IN 2020

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he recovery of Tourism Industry is expected to be long and challenging. Airlines will be in recovery mode but still well below pre-crisis levels (2019) on many performance measures.

The financial outlook for the global air transport industry released by The International Air Transport Association (IATA) shows that airlines are expected to lose $84.3 billion in 2020 for a net profit margin of -20.1%. Revenues will fall 50% to $419 billion from $838 billion in 2019. In 2021, losses are expected to be cut to $15.8 billion as revenues rise to $598 billion.

“Financially, 2020 will go down 22

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as the worst year in the history of aviation. On average, every day of this year will add $230 million to industry losses. In total that’s a loss of $84.3 billion. It means that—based on an estimate of 2.2 billion passengers this year— airlines will lose $37.54 per passenger. That’s why government financial relief was and remains crucial as airlines burn through cash,” said Alexandre de Juniac, IATA’s Director General and CEO. “Provided there is not a second and more damaging wave of COVID-19, the worst of the collapse in traffic is likely behind us.

A key to the recovery is universal implementation of the re-start measures agreed through the

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) shows that airlines are expected to lose $84.3 billion in 2020 for a net profit margin of -20.1%.

Revenues will fall 50% to $419 billion from $838 billion in 2019. In 2021, losses are expected to be cut to $15.8 billion as revenues rise to $598 billion.

International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) to keep passengers and crew safe. And, with the help of effective contact tracing, these measures should give governments the confidence to open borders without quarantine measures. That’s an important part of the economic recovery because about 10% of the world’s GDP is from tourism and much of that depends on air travel. Getting people safely flying again will be a powerful economic boost,” said de Juniac.

2020 Main Forecast Drivers:

Passenger demand evaporated as international borders closed and countries locked down to prevent the spread of the virus.

This is the biggest driver of industry losses. At the low point in April, global air travel was roughly 95% below 2019 levels.

There are indications that traffic is slowly improving. Nonetheless, traffic levels (in Revenue Passenger Kilometer) for 2020 are expected to fall by 54.7% compared to 2019. Passenger numbers will roughly halve to 2.25 billion, approximately equal to 2006 levels. Capacity, however, cannot be adjusted quickly enough with a 40.4% decline expected for the year.

Passenger revenues are expected to fall to $241 billion (down from $612 billion in 2019).

This is greater than the fall in demand, reflecting an expected

18% fall in passenger yields as airlines try to encourage people to fly again through price stimulation. Load factors are expected to average 62.7% for 2020, some 20 percentage points below the record high of 82.5% achieved in 2019.

Costs are not falling as fast as demand. Total expenses of $517 billion are 34.9% below 2019 levels but revenues will see a 50% drop. Non-fuel unit costs will rise sharply by 14.1%, as fixed costs are spread over fewer passengers. Lower utilization of aircraft and seats as a result of restrictions will also add to rising costs.

Fuel prices offer some relief.

In 2019 jet fuel averaged $77/ barrel whereas the forecast av-

erage for 2020 is $36.8. Fuel is expected to account for 15% of overall costs (compared to 23.7% in 2019).

Cargo is the one bright spot.

Compared to 2019, overall freight tons carried is expected to drop by 10.3 million tons to 51 million tons. However, a severe shortage in cargo capacity due to the unavailability of belly cargo on (grounded) passenger aircraft is expected to push rates up by some 30% for the year. Cargo revenues will reach a near-record $110.8 billion in 2020 (up from $102.4 billion in 2019). As a portion of industry revenues, cargo will contribute approximately 26%--up from 12% in 2019.

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NEWS / AVIATION 2020 Regional Performance

All regions will post losses in 2020. The crisis has taken on a similar dimension in all parts of the world with capacity cuts lagging about 10-15 percentage points or more behind the over50% fall in demand.

Reduced Losses in 2021

With open borders and rising demand in 2021, the industry is expected to cut its losses to $15.8 billion for a net profit margin of -2.6%. Total passenger numbers are expected to rebound to 3.38 billion (roughly 2014 levels when there were 3.33 billion travelers), which is well below the 4.54 billion travelers in 2019. Overall revenues are expected to be $598 billion which would be a 42% improvement in 2020, but still 29% below 2019’s $838 billion. Unit costs are expected to fall as fixed costs are

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spread across more passengers than in 2020. But the continued virus control measures will limit the gains by reducing aircraft utilization rates.

Cargo’s enlarged footprint in the air transport industry will remain.

Cargo revenues will reach a record $138 billion (a 25% increase on 2020). That is about 23% of total industry revenues, roughly double its historical share. Air cargo demand is expected to be strong as businesses restock at the start of the economic upturn, while a slow return of the passenger fleet will limit the growth of cargo capacity, and keep cargo yields steady at 2020 levels.

Jet fuel prices are expected to raise to an average of $51.8 per barrel for the year, as global economic activity and oil demand rises. While that will add some cost pressure on airlines, the price per

barrel is similar to 2016 ($52.1) and will still be the lowest since 2004 ($49.7).

“Airlines will still be financially fragile in 2021. Passenger revenues will be more than one-third smaller than in 2019. And airlines are expected to lose about $5 for every passenger carried.

The cut in losses will come from re-opened borders leading to increased volumes of travelers. Strong cargo operations and comparatively low fuel prices will also give the industry a boost.

Competition among airlines will no doubt be even more intense.

That will translate into strong incentives for travelers to take to the skies again. The challenge for 2022 will be turning reduced losses of 2021 into the profits that airlines will need to pay off their debts from this terrible crisis,” said de Juniac.

A Challenging Recovery

Although losses will be significantly reduced in 2021 from 2020 levels the challenging factors includes Debt Levels, Operational efficiencies, Recession and Confidence.

Debt Levels: Airlines entered 2020 in relatively good financial shape. After a decade of profits, debt levels were relatively low ($430 billion, roughly half annual revenues). Vital financial relief measures by governments have kept airlines from going bankrupt but have ballooned debt by $120 billion to $550 billion which is about 92% of expected revenues in 2021. Further relief measures should be focused on helping airlines to generate more working capital and stimulating demand rather than further expanding debt.

Operational

to be progressive, starting with domestic markets, followed by regional and, lastly, international. Research suggests that some 60% of travelers will be eager to recommence travel within a few months of the pandemic coming under control. The same research also indicates that an even greater percentage of potential travelers until their personal financial situation stabilizes (69%) or if quarantine measures are in place (over 80%). “People will want to fly again, provided they have confidence in their personal financial situation and the measures taken to keep travelers safe. There is no tried and true playbook for a recovery from COVID-19 but the ICAO Takeoff re-start plan outlines

globally harmonized measures agreed by health and industry experts. It is important that the industry and governments follow it so that travelers will have the maximum reassurance about their safety. That will be a good start. And depending on how the pandemic evolves, knowledge of the virus deepens, or science improves, industry and governments will be better prepared for a globally coordinated response.

That includes the potential removal of measures when it is safe. That will give airlines some breathing room to rebuild demand and repair damaged balance sheets,� said de Juniac.

Mr. Alexandre de Juniac Director General and CEO IATA

efficiencies:

The global measures agreed for the industry re-start, for the period that they are implemented, will significantly change operational parameters. For example, physical distancing during embarkation/disembarking, more deep cleaning, and increased cabin check will all add time to operations which will decrease overall aircraft utilization.

Recession: The depth and duration of the recession to come will significantly impact business and consumer confidence. Pentup demand is likely to drive an initial uptick in travel numbers but sustaining that is likely to require price stimulus and that will put pressure on profits.

Confidence: Travel patterns are likely to shift. The gradual opening up of air travel is likely

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NEWS/ GLOBAL TRAVEL

COVID-19 SCIENTIFIC SUMMIT

The Summit will consider practices from the leading scientists and health experts for mitigating the spread of the virus 20

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JUNE 2020 TOURISM INDIA JULY 2020 TOURISM INDIA

Latest scientific knowledge and evidence-based best practices related to COVID-19.

W

TTC to collaborate with world’s largest cruise company on convening leading global scientists and health experts on July 28 for a virtual public forum on the latest insights and best practices for living in a world with COVID-19 To continue building global understanding concerning COVID’s impact on society, including travel and tourism.

WTTC , Carnival Corporation & plc will jointly host the WTTC/ Carnival Corporation Global Science Summit on COVID-19.

A virtual scientific summit focused on COVID-19 and the ‘new normal’, on July 28, 2020.

Taking place from 14:00 hours to 17:30 GMT (10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. EDT) on Thursday, July 28, the summit, which is open to the public, will share the latest scientific knowledge 27 and evidence-based best practices related to prevention, detection, treatment and mitigation of COVID-19.

The joint summit will see global tourism leaders, WTTC Members, government agencies, destination partners, trade and private businesses, share the very latest science and medical evidence that can

be used to inform practical, adaptable and science-based solutions for mitigating and living with COVID-19.

The Summit will consider practices from the leading scientists and health experts for mitigating the spread of the virus. Summit convenes global scientists and health experts at the forefront of COVID-19 fight The summit will bring together a robust lineup of world renowned medical, epidemiology and public health experts to explore and share the latest best practice on the science of COVID-19 and how best to address the many practical questions people have about the disease.

Speakers and panelists represent a diverse range of science, research, clinical, academic, policy and business backgrounds, including amongst others, members of Scientists to Stop Covid-19, who have volunteered to participate. For additional information on the program and panelists, see the registration site at CovidScienceSummit. com.

Summit will discuss practical approaches to living in a world with COVID-19. The event will feature a series of panels, each focusing on a critical area of science surrounding COVID-19 and will include best practices from different industry sectors and world regions to control and limit the spread of COVID-19.

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NEWS/ GLOBAL TRAVEL

DESTINATIONS GETS WTTC SAFE TRAVELS STAMP

Dr. Khaled El-Enany, Minister of Tourism and Antiquities Egypt

Destinations around the world such as Aruba, Slovenia, Ukraine, and Vienna, Tunisia, and Ras Al Khaimah, Kenya, St. Petersburg, and the ever-popular Spanish resort of Benidorm among many others.

H

oliday hotspot Egypt is the latest in a line of popular destinations around the world to sign up to the world’s first-ever global safety and hygiene stamp launched recently by the World Travel & Tourism Council.

The growing list of endorsements has come from many major holiday and city destinations around the world such as Aruba, Slovenia, Ukraine, and Vienna, Tunisia, and Ras 28

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Al Khaimah, Kenya, St. Petersburg, and the ever-popular Spanish resort of Benidorm among many others.

The United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) embraced the WTTC Safe Travels stamp, which has the safety and hygiene of travellers as its top priority.

Ms. Gloria Guevara, WTTC President & CEO, said: “We are delighted to see major countries and destinations such as Egypt and

Slovenia joining the growing list of global destinations adopting our private sector protocols. “The stamp is critical to re-establish consumer confidence in Travel & Tourism and ensure travellers can rest assured that enhanced standards of hygiene are in place.

Dr. Khaled El-Enany, Egypt Minister of Tourism and Antiquities said: “I am pleased with the decision issued today by the WTTC to grant

Egypt its Safe Travels stamp.

This is a milestone in our bilateral cooperation with WTTC. This decision reflects Egypt’s commitment to the safe resumption of inbound tourism with strict comprehensive hygiene safety measures starting July 1, 2020, to its superb, sunny, and healthy beaches. “We are looking forward to welcoming guests to Egypt’s resorts in the Red Sea and the Mediterranean Coast.”

Iván Eskildsen, Panama Minister of Tourism, said: “As the hub of the Americas, restoring confidence for travellers and tourists, will be a key factor for the reactivation of our industry and our economy. “The WTTC Safe Travels stamp is a great way of building trust, aligning the protocols we have developed with our Ministry of Health with WTTC standards so that travellers can have a safe journey through our country.”

Ivan Liptuga, President, National Tourism Organization of Ukraine said: “We commend WTTC for the strong initiative to design Safe Travels protocols for every link in the tourism value chain. One of NTO Ukraine’s core activities is quality management and the implementation of international standards in the sustainable development of tourism in Ukrainian destinations. “The implementation of WTTC protocols and the distribution of a Safe Travel Stamp is vital for strengthening health and safety standards and also a great marketing tool which strengthens confidence and differentiates socially responsible businesses from others.”

MSc. Maja Pak, Director General of the Slovenian Tourist Board said: “The Slovenian Tourist Board is proud that Slovenia is one of the first countries in the world with recognized Safe Travels Protocols approved by the World Travel & Tourism Council. Our instant reaction

will help the tourism recover as soon as possible, and our common efforts with all the stakeholders have resulted in the GREEN & SAFE label, which represents Slovenia’s commitment to responsible, green, and safe tourism.”

WTTC recently launched a range of worldwide measures as part of its Safe Travels protocols, providing consistency and guidance to travel providers and travellers about the new approach to health, hygiene, deep cleansing, and physical distancing, in the ‘new normal’ of COVID-19 world.

The United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) embraced the WTTC Safe Travels stamp, which has the safety and hygiene of travellers as its top priority Sergey Korneev, Tourism Development of Saint Petersburg, Chairman of the Committee said: “A fast and effective recovery of the Travel & Tourism industry will require a coordinated approach.

The northern capital is the first Russian city to adopt the protocols recognized through the WTTC Safe Travels stamp, and29 our main priorities as a major tourist center are ensuring safety and reducing risk factors during the journey. “We are confident that the Safe Travels stamp will serve as a signal of trust and confidence and will be an opportunity for the city to attract many more visitors.”

Raki Phillips, Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority CEO said: “The Safe Travel Protocols and the Global Safety Stamp

are demonstrative of WTTC’s efforts to revitalize the travel and tourism industry during the wake of COVID-19, and in the years to follow. “With all these measures in place, we are witnessing an uptick in domestic travel and preparations are well underway to welcome international markets as travel corridors open up. WTTC has been instrumental in this process by providing consistency in global protocols and rebuilding trust and confidence in the travel experience.”

Dr. Emad Hijazeen, Jordanian Ministry of Tourism & Antiquities Secretary-General, said: “We appreciate and support the WTTC initiative of making travel and tourism a safe activity. “Protecting the health of Jordanians and our visitors is a top priority for the Government of Jordan.”

The protocols were devised following the experience of WTTC members dealing with COVID19 and based on guidelines from the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Tunisia, Ras Al Khaimah, Jordan and destinations around the world get the WTTC Safe Travels stamp for safety protocols Since the launch of the WTTC Safe Travels stamp, destination countries, cities, and hotspots around the world such as Turkey, Bulgaria, Mauritius, Panama, Portugal, and the Mexican State of Jalisco, have now adopted WTTC’s new protocols.

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NEWS/ GLOBAL TRAVEL

#TOGETHERIN TRAVEL

BEND OUR TREND CAMPAIGN FOR CLIMATE FRIENDLY TRAVEL

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To encourage Travel & Tourism companies and communities to Adopt Climate Friendly Travel

T

he World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) has s launched a new marketing campaign, #TogetherInTravel, aimed at galvanizing the global travel and tourism community and showing how the sector is a vital part of our zest for life.

The campaign encourages travellers from around the world to share the hashtag #TogetherInTravel along with a video simultaneously uniting everyone in solidarity at the same moment.

The marketing campaign comprises three key elements; a highly visual and emotive video; a hashtag, #TogetherInTravel, to stimulate the conversation across social platforms and a microsite, TogetherInTravel.com, to host the video and user generated

Ms. Farrugia Portelli said: “Our commitment to Climate Friendly Travel is even more important in a world where we need to plan our post-COVID19 future to also respond to the existential Climate Crisis – the effects of which are already upon us.

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Ms. Julia Farrugia Portelli, Minister for Tourism and Consumer Protection Republic of Malta

content and stories.

WTTC has developed the campaign in conjunction with one of its Members, marketing and communications firm MMGY Hills Balfour.

Ms. Gloria Guevara, President & CEO of WTTC, added: “Dreaming is part of our zest for life and our new campaign encourages thoughts of the brighter days ahead. Travel & Tourism is a critical sector to the global economy, accounting for one in four of all new jobs worldwide and contributing 10.3% to GDP. “Our sector touches everyone.

It builds communities, reduces poverty in the world and improves the social impact of everyday lives. Yet we are uniquely exposed at this time due to Covid-19.

“The concept for the #TogetherInTravel campaign was borne out of a desire to rally everyone who is passionate about travel, to unify those who are working hard to rebuild the sector and to spread a message of solidarity that we are one global community, and one where travel brings us closer, at the right time.

“Our message is that everyone can still stay inspired with future travel ideas and bookings - and in the meantime be part of a virtual space for sharing, connecting, and collectively inspiring.

“We want to thank Amanda Hills, President of MMGY Hills Balfour and her team for their efforts in building this campaign with donated time, and we hope that as many people as possible JULY 2020 TOURISM INDIA

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FEATURE / ECOTOURISM

WHAT COVID-19 MEANS FOR ECOTOURISM

F

or decades, ecotourism has helped to conserve nature and protect endangered species.

COVID-19 and the subsequent closure of ecotourism sites has had an indelible impact on wildlife and the communities that protect it.

Johannes Refisch is a United Nations Programme Manager and Coordinator, who oversees the Great Apes Survival Partnership. In this interview, he explains the dilemma faced by ecotourism and how the industry might change to accommodate a post-COVID-19 reality.

What exactly do we mean when we talk about ecotourism?

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According to the International Ecotourism Society, ecotourism is “responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment and improves the well-being of local people.” By limiting the number of visitors, hotels and other tourist infrastructure, ecotourism minimizes human impact on the environment and builds environmental and cultural awareness and respect.

Local communities benefit through employment, business opportunities and social projects; and ecotourism also contributes significantly to national economies. In 2017, for example, Rwanda received 1.5 million

Interview with Johannes Refisch, United Nations Great Apes Survival Partnership Programme, Programme Manager and Coordinator international travelers. Renowned for its mountain ranges, volcanoes and numerous wildlife species–including great apes–the country’s parks alone welcomed 94,000 visitors, generating a revenue of $18.7 million.

How has the spread of COVID-19 affected ecotourism, to date?

Great ape tourism sites were closed relatively early in the crisis because of the risk that humans could transmit COVID-19 to great apes. Since then, most borders have been closed, and international travel has come to a stand-still.

This has even affected areas with-

out great apes, cutting off their source of income. Many protected areas use the income generated from tourism to fund law enforcement, biomonitoring and staff salaries. It has now been three months without tourism revenue, bringing many protected areas into a financial crisis. The release of staff and suspension of law enforcement can easily lead to an increase in poaching and encroachment–first because there is little law enforcement; second because community members have lost their income and have few other alternatives.

Primate sanctuaries and rescue centers are also affected. Although they are closed for tourism, they still have to feed the animals; they cannot just stop operations. A number of sanctuaries/rehabilitation centers in Indonesia have release and reintroduction programmes for orangutans, but reintroductions are currently not recommended because of the disease risk. And at the same time, they have to accommodate new animals, pushing them to the edge of their capacity.

It is urgent that that the inter-

national community establishes emergency funds to offset the loss of revenue from tourism. There are already some initiatives such as the call for proposals from the Lion’s Share initiative, to support communities that are highly dependent on income from tourism; or the SOS African Wildlife initiative, which responds to COVID-19 related threats.

With regard to great ape tourism­– which allows humans into natural habitats and in close proximity to wild animals–what are the prospects for re-opening sites in the future?

This is a very complex and difficult question. On one hand, many sites need the income from tourism; it is their business model. On the other hand, a COVID-19 outbreak in a habituated great ape group would threaten the viability of that business model–and could have disastrous effects.

We do not know whether there will be new waves of COVID-19 infections. And we have neither a vaccine nor a cure. The fact that great apes are so closely related to humans gives us hope that once there is a vaccine or cure for humans, it might also work for great apes, or could be developed to do so in a relatively short period of time.

The Primate Specialist Group, Section on Great Apes, 33 and the Wildlife Health Specialist Group of the International Union for the Conservation of Nature suggest best practices for great ape disease control and tourism; and implementation of these guidelines is one step.

In a post-COVID-19 future, how might we expect ecotourism to change?

Digital solutions are scenario, like this initiative to promote virtual ecotourism. The potential income will not compensate for the lost income from a visitor who is paying US$1,500 for a single gorilla tracking permit in Rwanda, but it demonstrates that we can find new ways of doing things. Other initiatives try to engage the gaming industry. The Internet of Elephants, a collaborative social enterprise working towards a stronger connection between people and wild animals has partnered with the Borneo Nature Foundation and the Goualougo Triangle Ape Project to design Wildeverse, an augmented reality game featuring gorillas, chimpanzees and orangutans.

How does UNEP support wildlife tourism?

The people who live with wildlife sometimes bear the negative impacts, such as the destructions of their harvest by wild animals; so it is important that these people also receive economic benefits. A lot of wildlife lives outside government-managed protected areas therefore it is important that the local communities that live with wildlife land owners–whether communities or private land owners– see the value in protecting wildlife.

UNEP has been supporting community engagement in wildlife conservation and tourism. As an example, the Great Apes Survival Partnership Programme–with funding from the Spanish Government–supported the Lossi Interzone in the Republic of Congo, to establish the first gorilla tracking programme in a community-managed area in Africa.

For more information, please contact Johannes Refisch, Great Apes Survival Partnership Programme Manager and Coordinator: johannes.refisch@ unep.org JULY 2020 TOURISM INDIA

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NEWS / HOSPITALITY

BRIGADE HOSPITALITY AWARDED AS 3RD AMONG INDIA’S GREAT MID-SIZE WORKPLACES 2020

B

rigade Hospitality has been identified among India’s Great Mid-size Workplaces 2020 by the Great Place to Work Institute. The company has marked as the 3rd among the Top 50 Mid-size Great Workplaces in India for 2020. Last year, more than 1000 organizations applied for this assessment and only the best made it to India’s 50 Great Mid-size Workplaces 2020.

The awarding organization,

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Great Place to Work Institute, is the ‘Global Authority’ for creating, sustaining and identifying High-Trust, High-Performance CultureTM. Considered the ‘Gold Standard’ in Workplace Culture Assessment, Great Place to Work®️ identifies Best Workplaces solely on the basis of Employee Feedback and quality of People Practices in an organization.

No jury or individual can influence the results of the assessment.

Expressing his views on the recognition, Mr. Vineet Verma, CEO & Executive Director, Brigade Hospitality said, “Our people are our priority and their welfare comes first. Our congenial work environment motivates our people to always want to deliver their best and gives them a sense of ownership & belonging

Brigade Hospitality has been identified among India’s Great Mid-size Workplaces 2020 by the Great Place to Work Institute

Mr. Vineet Verma, CEO & Executive Director, Brigade Hospitality

with the company. We are excited to be recognized again as a great place to work in India. We thank you for your continuous support & trust after all what actually makes an organization great is its people.

Brigade Hospitality has earned this recognition for creating a Great Place to Work FOR ALL the employees and has excelled on the 5 dimensions of building a High-Trust, High-Performance CultureTM – Credibility, Respect, Fairness, Pride and Camaraderie.

The study represents the voice of more than 2.1 Million employees across 21+ industries.

‘Drivecation’ package is curated for all the travellers who are on a look out for a safe and hygienic gateway.

A

s a part of the safe and responsible re-opening of travel and tourism industry and to strengthen the ‘Truly Indian’ experience that resonates with comfort and warm hospitality, Pride Group of Hotels has launched its new holiday package ‘Drivecation’ for welcoming its guests to the new normal wherein their safety will be given utmost importance.

‘Drivecation’ package is curated for all the travellers who are on a lookout for a safe and hygienic gateway. The 3N/4D package consists of services like Sedan pickup and drop facility, deluxe room stay, in-room breakfast, and themed dinners.

The guests can book the packages by visiting the Pride Hotels website https://www.pridehotel. com/offers/drivecations.html and can choose the location nearest to their humble abode.

Guests can also book other safe staycation packages based on their needs. The Pride Hotel launched it’s first-ever ‘Holiday Bond’ for future travel to welcome back their patrons in the new normal with “more for less”; thereby saving INR 3,000 of guests readily. The bond is an investment for future travels. To further boost the travel, tourism, and hospitality industry that has been deeply impacted

PRIDE HOTELS WELCOMES GUESTS WITH ‘DRIVECATION’ PACKAGES by the current pandemic, Pride Hotels has launched the “India Dekho With Pride” campaign.

“We’re grateful to our loyal guests who have bestowed us with their trust during this pandemic. We believe that when people start traveling again, they shouldn’t compromise on either comfort or safety. Keeping the present circumstances in mind, we have curated the package in such a way that people can escape to a relaxing getaway without hindering their safety. We want them to feel safe when they walk through the doors of our hotels at all times. Hence 35 we have taken various steps to enhance the areas of frequent touchpoints, cleanliness, hygiene, and social distancing. This is a small effort to extend our services to ensure our guest’s experience enhances a safe environment.” says, Mr. Satyen Jain, CEO, Pride Group of Hotels.

Moreover, as a part of the ‘New Normal’, the Pride Group has also launched the ‘Pride Safety As-

surance’ initiative. With travelers being extremely thoughtful about their accommodation, this assurance is designed to cover hygiene guidelines, booking policies as well as precautions to be taken by guests and staff to ensure safety and flexibility.

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NEWS/ PRODUCTS

HARNESSING T SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY TO CONTINUE THE FIGHT AGAINST COVID-19 Log 9 Materials CoronaOven Products for Surface Sanitization at Bangalore Airport

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he newly installed solutions apply the scientific principle of disinfection of object Log 9 Materials Deploys Custom-made CoronaOven-Branded Products for Surface Sanitization at Bangalore Airport. The newly installed solutions apply the scientific principle of disinfection of object surfaces using UV-C light Log 9 Materials, a Bengaluru-headquartered clean-tech start-up, has collaborated with Bangalore International Airport Limited or BIAL (the main operating body of the Bangalore Airport) to deploy advanced and customized versions of its latest UV disinfection product CoronaOven at various strategic locations within the premises of Kempegowda International Airport, Bengaluru. The objective of this deployment is to ensure the safety and well-being of the passengers and airport

Mr. Akshay Singhal, Founder & CEO, Log 9 Materials

personnel through flash sterilization/disinfection of the conveyor belts, baggage, trolleys and various other objects of regular use at the airport, particularly in the wake of the continued threat of the Covid-19 health crisis.

CoronaOven is a scientifically-designed UV-C chamber that effectively disinfects surfaces from the COVID-19 virus, bacteria, and any other types of germs or pathogens. The product, which was originally launched as a small, lightweight oven to sanitize groceries, food items, masks, etc., is now being customized into multiple sizes and configurations to meet the custom requirements of various clients and/or centers of deployment.

Notably, it is the only UV disinfection brand in the market that has achieved multiple certifications to its credit (including certifications from the laborato-

ries of ICMR-empanelled CSIRCSIO, IISC Bangalore, etc.), and the CoronaOven product line has also been co-branded with Indian Institute of Science Bangalore.

Among early adopters and customers of CoronaOven are government bodies like NITI Aayog, Karnataka Police, and several reputed private and public hospitals based out of Bengaluru and other cities.

Speaking about the airport deployment initiative and the way forward for ‘CoronaOven’ products, Mr. Akshay Singhal, Found37 er & CEO, Log 9 Materials says, “Log 9 is committed to bringing scientific and safe solutions to stimulate India’s collective fight against COVID-19, and the latest deployment done by our team at the Bangalore Airport is a big step in that direction. Given the current situation pertaining to Covid-19, it has become imperative for airports and other key public spaces to maintain sanitization and hygiene standards of the highest

levels, in order to ensure that the masses do not get infected. To this end, Log 9’s science-backed range of customized CoronaOven products can go a long way in preventing surface-to-human transmission in the days and months to come. We are currently in talks with various other airport authorities across different cities to design and deploy similar types of solutions that enable quick and reliable sanitization of surfaces and thus provide protection against the dreaded virus.” ● CoronaOven Conveyor – has been designed to complement the previously existing, independent conveyor belts at the airport and also as a standalone passenger baggage disinfection system. It ensures continuous flow of UV-C light for uninterrupted sterilization of luggage bags, etc, along the conveyor. ● CoronaOven Tunnel has been designed to sanitize a batch of airport trolleys via safe and efficient UV sterilization; around 8-9 trolleys can be disinfected at once using this product in 2 mins. The powerful UV-C lamp configuration inside the Tunnel disinfects trolleys from 360-degrees within two minutes. Furthermore, it comes with multi-layer UV protection and the team is developing UV sensors that would track the sanitization status of each trolley (placed within the tunnel). ● CoronaOven HandRail is designed to sanitize the handrails of an escalator while it is being actively used (on-the-go); it ensures that a person’s hands do not get infected even when he/ she touches the handrail surface during the journey. The top-attachable design ensures that it can be attached to an existing escalator handrail without making any structural changes whatsoever.

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NEWS / HOSPITALITY

WORKATION AT

The resort has implemented all the necessary safety & hygiene measures

SIGNATURE S CLUB RESORT

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ignature Club Resort Bangluru, one of the city’s most sought after place to unwind, has introduced Workations that defines the new normal. It comes as a big respite for most of the employees who work for corporates, MNCs, SMEs, or the Startups, who have been cocooned at their

homes for over three months and carrying out duties.

Being situated in the outskirts of Bengaluru amidst nature’s lap, the resort gives you a much-needed break from the boredom and stress caused by the turn of events in the last few months. The resort is well equipped with executive premium rooms & suites, WiFi, Fixed Menus, Indoor and Outdoor sports facilities that will

keep you rejuvenated and relaxed throughout your stay.

Considering how important safety and hygiene practices have become in times like these, Signature Club Resort (SCR) already boasts of high standards of housekeeping and hygiene, where five stargrade cleaning products and upgraded protocols are currently in use. In addition, the resort is taking expert advice

and guidance from the Infection Prevention and Control team at SIPC (South India Pest Control) to enhance the resort’s cleaning disinfection protocols.

The Workation comes with exciting packages, each with irresistible offers on F&B, Rooms, Sports Facilities, and many more. So plan your Workation at this place to break away from the mundane life.

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FEATURE / CULTURE

SNAKE WORSHIP

by AJAI KUMAR K S / SRIDEVI NARAYANAN

Jainism shares its affinity to the snakes through Dharanendra and Padmavathi. In Buddism, again an Idol of Lord Budha in the meditative pose is being sheltered by a seven-headed snake Mukkalind attributes to the Naga- link of the spiritual tradition.

ACROSS THE BORDERS, I BEYOND THE TIME

n the wake of Covid-19, June 21st – the International Yoga Day which we fairly celebrate usually, is observed with less colour compared to the previous years. The theory and practice of Yoga state that our energy is rested on the “mooladhara”, moola

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means root and adhara is base in Sanskrit. The chakra “mooladhara”, is situated at the very base of the spine in the form of a coiled Serpent, called “Kundalini”. Hence Kundalini symbolises the Snake Worship practiced among the Hindus and has written about innumerable times. From time to time around the world the reference of Snakes in the worshipped or non-worshipped forms prevailed in the various religions and traditions.

Jainism and Buddhism are often referred to as forms of Protestant Hinduism. Jainism shares its affinity to the snakes through Dharanendra and Padmavathi (prior to 10 AD she was called Vairotya) as the Snake God and Snake Goddess, could be representing Nagaraja and Nagarani of Hindu tradition. An idol of the Jain saint Parshwanatha houses a snake hood above his head and a cobra at the bottom of the figure shows the devoutness of the reptile world in Jain lineage. A myth says Vardhamana Mahavira with his divinity has saved an entire village from a deadly venomous snake, Chandkaushik. Upon seeing him Chandkaushik has hissed out its venomous rage and Mahavira through his ascetic tranquillity made the snake calm and later when it died it has attained the heavenly abode. This incident of Jain myth among a couple of others has paved the way for snakes being considered holy in Jainism.

In Buddism, again an Idol of Lord

Budha in the meditative pose is being sheltered by a seven-headed snake Mukkalind attributes to the Naga- link of the spiritual tradition.

The snake crowns the idol, acts as a protector of Budha from environmental catastrophes, and thereby protecting Dharma, which is one of the major ideas of the Buddhist philosophy. The seven heads of Mukkalind throw light upon the Seven Factors of Enlightenment.

The legendary Serpentine Dragon is considered to be a positive sign in the Chinese tradition of Buddhism. The casting of the snake’s skin symbolises mortality and rebirth.

The ancient Egyptians wor41 shipped Apophis, an evil but celestial serpent in the form of a gigantic Cobra. The ancient Egyptian myths underline the constant conflict and battles of Apophis with the Sun god – Ra. This myth is the metaphor of the soul’s fights against the question of existence. Uraeus often depicted as a cobra is the Goddess of snakes and it denotes

sovereignty. It is believed that prior to the Roman annexations snake worship was followed in certain pockets of Rome. Much before Christianity was founded, Goddess Angilitia was considered a serpentine powerful Goddess and was prayed for healing deadly diseases.

The lion-headed serpent with an aura named Kneph is a motif found in pre-historic Egyptian art, which is associated with the deity called Khnum.

The Greek Classics had abundant references to the divine snakes and snake gods. There was a tradition of worshipping Wadjet, the Egyptian snake goddess. The two-headed, ant-eater Ambhisbaena is yet another snake God-

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FEATURE / CULTURE

dess usually seen in Greek mythology. There are allusions that Aesculapeans, the non-venomous snakes were left crawling on the floors of the rooms where the people with ailments are laid.

Similar to the Buddhist belief of snake worshipping, the ancient Mesopotamians believed that the skin shedding of the snakes indicates the purification and rebirth.

Embellished snake figures found along with the burials in graveyards clearly indicates the myth of mortality.

On the artifacts found in the vicinity of Sumerian Civilization figures of the Sumerian snake god, Ningishida is often seen with a human head. In the rock-cut scribblings the historians discern the aforesaid name as well. On all the four doorways of ancient Babylonian temples a pair of snake-figures each were unearthed. Such findings contribute the snake worship has prevailed around the world in the pre-historic era itself.

When it comes to Christianity the divine serpent becomes a symbol of chaos and evil spirit. But it has 42

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to be discerned that here the perspective of snake personifies wisdom as well. Other than very few references in The Books of Genesis, Numbers, and the Revelations not many allusions of Snake are found in Christianity. The Middle East soil has also housed its share of Bronze and Iron Age metallurgical outputs of snake-hood or snake-like forms found in various excavation sites of Rumailla, Masafi, Sarauque Al Hadid, etc. Definitely they do not contribute to the Faith of Islam though it was founded much later in the Middle East.

Since the time immemorial fear being a commodity traded fast and best to invest. Fear causes Devotion, Devotion causes Worship and the Worship causes Religious cults and sects. Precisely, irrespective of continents common people of all the time and place were afraid of Snakes. This Fear Factor is played well and could have been exploited by the clever commanders of religions. This may be one of the key reasons why the snakes have found their way of being worshipped. In the Indian context, an-

SRIDEVI NARAYANAN

other reason often cited is the Environment Conservation by giving divinity to the animals, birds, and reptiles. Though we put forward hundreds of logical reasons, myths and superstitions surround the mindset of even the ultra-modern man. Hence the snake worship is still continuing. Scientific findings are not enough to fade away layman’s mind-set and the human minds set out their expeditions like the legendary Ulysses of Ithaca.

Sketches by Ajay Krishna Moorthy

AJAI KUMAR K S

NEWS / INTERNATIONAL

B

rand USA, the destination marketing organization for the United States, organized a virtual celebration of American Independence Day for travel professionals and travel trade media across India on July 3, 2020. The fun-filled celebration consisted of traditional 4th of July activities, including a “Great American Cooking Challenge” and a special online screening of National Parks Adventure – Brand USA’s film about the awe-inspiring landscapes and untamed wilderness of America’s great parks. The guest of honor at the event was David Ranz, Consul General of the United States of America in Mumbai. The event

BRAND USA VIRTUALLY CELEBRATES AMERICAN INDEPENDENCE

DAY IN INDIA

kicked-off with Sheema Vohra, Managing Director of Brand USA in India, welcoming guests as she shared her fond memories of celebrating the 4th of July during her time in the U.S. “It’s a time to be spent with family and friends with barbecue, games, and fireworks.

We also used to enjoy taking wonderful road trips to explore the diverse landscapes of the United States.” In her address, Jack43 ie Ennis, Vice President, Global Trade Development, Brand USA, emphasized the importance of the India market and said that with over 1.4

million visitor arrivals to the U.S. in 2018, India ranks amongst the top 10 overseas markets for Brand USA. Ennis further stated, “The great outdoors, unspoiled wonders, and immense natural beauty makes the United States a great place to explore. We really hope you will be truly inspired to visit us when the timing is right.”

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NEWS / NEWS AIRLINES AIRLINE

INDIGO JETS FOR VANDE BHARAT MISSION 487 international flights with over 75000 passengers in 42 days; The charter and repatriation flights transported 75,428 passengers, out of which 65,865 passengers were on the flights between India and Middle East.

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I

ndiGo Airlines has operated 436 international passenger charter flights and 51 international flights under the Vande Bharat Mission for the repatriation of Indian citizens stranded in various countries due to Covid 19 related travel restrictions, from June 03, 2020 till July 14, 2020, in-line with its mission to work together and support the nation in the current scenario, The airline has operated international flights from Middle Eastern countries including UAE, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait and from other Asian nations like Maldives, Sri Lanka, Singapore, Malaysia and Hong Kong. IndiGo operated these flights while adhering to all the precautionary measures, ensuring a safe and hassle free flying experience on-board a lean clean flying machine.

Mr. Ronojoy Dutta, Chief Executive Officer, IndiGo said, “We are pleased to have successfully operated close to 500 international flights in almost 1.5months, including passenger charters and repatriation flights under Vande Bharat mission.

It brings us immense satisfaction, to be able to contribute in bringing back our fellow countrymen through these flights. We are grateful to the government for trusting us to operate these flights and including us in the Vande Bharat Mission. We look forward to supporting the nation in its hour of need�.

Overall, the charter and repatriation flights transported 75,428 passengers, out of which 65,865 passengers were on the flights between India and Middle East. The airline also managed a sizeable traffic of seafarers to and from destinations including Doha, Colombo, Hong Kong and Singapore amongst others. IndiGo repatriated 9,334 citizens on-board Vande Bharat Mission flights.

IndiGo 6E Double Seat will allow customers to book two seats for a single passenger

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n-line with its vision to ensure safe and hassle-free travel, IndiGo Airlines has launched 6E double seat bookings, which will allow customers to book two seats for a single passenger.

Customers will be able to opt for 6E double seat only at the time of booking creation on IndiGo’s website, which will be available for both passengers as well as the travel agents. The 6E double seat option will not be available through travel portals, IndiGo call centre, airport counters or after making the original single seat booking. The 6E double Seat Scheme will not attract any airports charges like PSF, UDF and will only be an airline component and GST, hence will be priced at a lower rate than the total fare paid for original booking. The charges for extra seat will be effectively up to 25% lower than the original booking cost. This offer is effective travel starting July 24, 2020.

Mr. Sanjay Kumar, Chief Strategy & Revenue Officer, IndiGo said, “Even though air travel is the safest mode of travel at this point, we understand the

Mr. Ronojoy Dutta, Chief Executive Officer, IndiGo

FLY STRESS FREE! BOOK 2 SEATS FOR 1 customers’ emotional need for safety. We had been receiving such requests and are happy to introduce the option to book two seats for a single passenger to ensure additional safety. 6E double seat will provide a stress-free flying experience to our customers.

We are constantly working towards measures and services to strengthen air travel as the safest choice for travellers. We are confident that this option will enhance 45 the passenger comfort and trust, augmenting the overall demand for air travel”. The seat selection charges under the 6E double seat scheme will be applicable for both seats and it will be a mandatory selection requirement at the time of booking. Regular change & cancellation charges based on the type of fare purchased will be applicable on extra seat(s). The extra seat booking will not be entitled for additional baggage allowance for customers. The extra seat can also be used by passengers travelling with a large musical instrument or a child’s car seat or for special seating needs due to personal comfort, size or disability.

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NEWS / AIRLINES

Q QATAR AIRWAY’S GLOBAL NETWORK INCREASES Airline resumed flights to Budapest, Dar es Salaam, Dhaka, Istanbul and New York

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February March JULY2020 2020 2020 Tourism TOURISM Tourism India India INDIA

atar Airways, the national carrier of the State of Qatar continues to maintain its position as the largest international carrier in the world, operating over 270 weekly flights to more than 45 destinations. The airline’s gradual rebuilding of its network continues with flights resuming in the past week to the following destinations: Budapest (three weekly flights started 15 June); Dar es Salaam (three weekly flights started 16 June); Dhaka (three weekly flights started 15 June); Istanbul (daily flights started 13 June); New York (flights started 19 June, daily from 22 June and 10 weekly from 2 July) As entry restrictions ease around the world, the carrier is also seeing a rise in bookings due to the strong levels of trust built with passengers as it took home over 1.8 million people safely and reliably during this crisis including many left stranded by other airlines. With demand steadily rising, Qatar Airways has increased frequencies to Athens ,Dallas-Fort Worth ,Dublin ,Islamabad , Jakarta

,Karachi ,Lahore ,Milan ,Rome and Singapore.

The airline also continues to operate daily flights to many key global destinations including Amsterdam, London Heathrow, Melbourne, Seoul, Sydney, Tokyo and Zurich offering a resilient network that is designed for strong connectivity.

Qatar Airways has led the industry during these challenging times accumulating unrivalled experience in carrying passengers safely and reliably, especially in comparison to those airlines that have fully grounded their operations.

The airline continues to provide an honest network that can be relied upon and trusted to operate. By maintaining a global network that never fell below 30 destinations, Qatar Airways has remained up to date with the latest in international airport procedures and implemented the most advanced safety and hygiene measures on board its aircraft and in Hamad International Airport (HIA), recently voted the

Demand sees carrier also increase frequencies to Athens, Dublin, Dallas-Fort Worth, Islamabad, Jakarta, Karachi, Lahore, Milan, Rome and Singapore Best Airport in the Middle East for the sixth year in a row. For full details of all the measures we have implemented onboard and in HIA, please visit qatarairways.com/ safety.

To ensure travellers can plan their travel with peace of mind, the airline has also extended its booking policies to offer even more choice to its passengers.

The airline will allow unlimited date changes, and passengers can change their destination as

often as they need if it is within 5,000 miles of the original destination. The airline will not charge any fare differences for travel completed before 31 December 2020, after which fare rules will apply. All tickets booked for travel up to 31 December 2020 will be valid for two years from the date of issuance. For full terms and conditions visit qatarairways.com/RelyOnUs. Passengers flying Business Class on Qsuite equipped aircraft can avail of the enhanced privacy this award-winning suite provides, including sliding privacy partitions and fully closing doors that create a private sanctuary. Passengers can also opt to use the ‘Do Not Disturb (DND)’ indicator in their private suite, if they wish to limit their interactions with the cabin crew. Qsuite continues to be available on flights to more than 30 destinations including London, Sydney, Singapore and Dallas Fort Worth with plans to add it to more routes throughout the summer.

QATAR AIRWAYS EXPANDS FLIGHTS TO U.S. DESTINATIONS

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atar Airways has restarted its schedule to Boston, New York, Los Angeles and Washington, D.C. apaert from its existing Chicago and Dallas-Fort Worth Flights. The carrier will operate 39 weekly flights to six gateways in the U.S that will connect onto hundreds of U.S. cities through its partnerships with American Airline and JetBlue. Qatar Airways is the only Gulf carrier that kept taking people home to the U.S. throughout this crisis, maintaining flights to Chicago and Dallas-Fort Worth.

Working closely with the Governments of Qatar and the U.S the airline has helped take home over 160,000 passengers to the U.S. since February on scheduled and charter flights Qatar Airways commitment to the U.S. market has not waivered throughout this unprecedented crisis.

While other airlines from the Gulf stopped operating, Qatar Airways has continued to work closely with the U.S. Government and airports to take over 160,000 stranded people home from Australasia, Africa, In-

dia and the Middle East. The has reaffirmed its commitment to the U.S. with the resumption of flights to New York (JFK) from 19 June (rising to 10 weekly from 2 July) and to Boston, Los Angeles and Washington Dulles from 1 July. This will see the airline’s U.S. network rebuild to 39 weekly flights by mid-July 2020.

With strong existing partnerships with American Airline47 and JetBlue in place, the restarting of these flights brings even greater benefits to Qatar Airways passengers. Existing services to Dallas-Forth Worth and Chicago currently enable passengers to book onward travel with American Airline to almost 180 destinations on more than 350 domestic flights per day. This will increase to more than 600 daily flights with the addition of services to Boston, New York, Los Angeles and Washington Dulles. Qatar Airways’ New York flights and five-weekly Boston flights will also facilitate the resumption of the JetBlue codeshare.

Passengers will immediately be able to book travel across the entire JetBlue network on 70 flights per day to 46 destinations.

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FEATURE / HOSPITALITY

AIR ASIA

NON-AIRLINE REVENUE UP 27% AND RASK GROWTH OF 2%.

A EBITDA BREAKEVEN DESPITE REVENUE DOWN 15%

irAsia Group Berhad has reported its Consolidated Airline Group¹ revenue of RM2.3 billion for the quarter ended 31 March 2020, down 15% from RM2.7 billion in 1Q2019. Despite kick starting the year with a strong performance in January 2020, the uncertainty of the outbreak as well as increasing travel restrictions and border controls in regards to Covid-19 has led to weaker air travel demand in February and March. The reduction in Available Seat Kilometre (“ASK”) by 19% was primarily due to proactive capacity management to mitigate the impact. 1Q2020 ancillary revenue also decreased by 16% yearon-year (“YoY”) to RM556 million, dragged by airline ancillary which declined 28% mainly due to removal of processing fees and 22% less passengers carried. Non-airline ancillary

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revenue grew 27% YoY. Net loss for the period was RM953 million, compared to RM102 million in profit in the previous corresponding quarter. The loss was attributed to a shortfall in revenue amidst impacted travel demand, higher maintenance and overhaul costs by 54% due to the accounting impact from the change in aircraft ownership (MFRS137) , loss on settlement from fuel hedging amounting to RM110 million and fair value loss on derivatives of RM270 million.

On the airline performance results and outlook, President (Airlines) of AirAsia Group Berhad Bo Lingam said: “Our market position remained strong in the 1Q2020 despite the challenges faced. We are pleased to see domestic market share gain in three of our Air Operator Certificates (AOC)s, the highest being AirAsia Philippines which was up 4 ppts.

Malaysia remains our strongest domestic market at 61% market share.

AirAsia Malaysia’s RASK grew 2% attributed to improved pricing strategy, while AirAsia Indonesia’s RASK increased by 3%. Though AirAsia Philippines saw a dip in passengers carried by 9%, load factor remained healthy at 84%.”

Mr. Bo Lingam, President (Airlines), AirAsia Group Berhad

Net loss for the period was RM953 million, compared to RM102 million in profit in the previous corresponding quarter “For each of our operating markets, we have restarted operations in phases and are focusing domestically for now, before opening up to Asean and then the rest of Asia when border restrictions are lifted. We continuously engage with stakeholders especially local governments and airports, among others, on collective efforts in reviving air travel.”

“Safety remains our top priority in day-to-day operations. We have been stepping up precautionary measures on the ground and in the air, including more stringent crew health checks and cabin disinfection procedures. All AirAsia aircraft are fitted with HEPA filters which filter out 99.9% particles and airborne contaminants such as viruses and bacteria, making the air quality clean and safe for guests. We have recently implemented end-to-end contactless procedures including contactless payments at the airport, contactless kiosks, as well as enhanced features on our mobile app to further provide a seamless and secure experience for our guests.”

49 On the group’s outlook, AirAsia Group Berhad CEO, Tan Sri Tony Fernandes said: “This is by far the toughest challenge we have faced since we began in 2001.

Every crisis is an obstacle to overcome, and we have restructured the group into a leaner and tighter ship. We are positive in the strides we have made in bringing cash expenses down by at least

50% this year, and this will make us even stronger as the leading lowcost carrier in the region.”

“On the airline operations, we are encouraged by the strong rebound demand seen since resuming operations in late April 2020 and we foresee this will continue in the coming months. Our innovative product, the AirAsia Unlimited Pass, sold out quickly. Competition is pricing rationally. This bodes well for us to compete in the post-Covid-19 world.”

On the digital platforms’ performance and outlook, President (RedBeat Ventures) of AirAsia Group Berhad Aireen Omar said: “1Q2020 demonstrated positive growth performance in our digital businesses.

Our logistics arm, Teleport, recorded a higher revenue YoY by 49% to RM150 million. During the quarter, Teleport has successfully completed its cargo consolidation across our Asean AOCs. Our fintech arm, BigPay reported 161% growth in revenue in 1Q2020, gaining further traction with the expansion of remittance corridors to include India, Bangladesh and Nepal. Australia is the latest addition in June, making up nine countries currently available for international bank transfer.”

Tan Sri Tony Fernandes CEO, AirAsia Group Berhad

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By NIPUNA SUDHA

TRAVELOGUE

MALAYSIA LAND OF PROMISING SMILES 50

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great marriage is not when the ‘perfect couple’ comes together. It is when an imperfect couple learns to enjoy their differences….. Dave Meurer” It was a trip to mark our 30th wedding anniversary. Thirty years of togetherness, 30 years of loving and at times hating each other. We wanted to go on an overseas trip but our upper-middle-class mindset was still hesitant to spend money for enjoyment. We poured through brochures, Internet, travelogues, and finally zeroed in on Malaysia.

I consulted many friends who had visited Malaysia and planned the itinerary. My niece in Kuala Lumpur

also guided us. We decided to visit Kuala Lumpur, Penang, and Malacca.

We got our tourist visas and booked our flight tickets to Kuala Lumpur from Kochi international airport.

Next, we booked our rooms in hotels in Penang and Malacca and also bus tickets from Kuala Lumpur to Penang and Malacca. My husband, my younger daughter and I boarded Air Asia flight K 0039 from Cochin International Airport at 12 midnight on May 27, 2019, and landed in Kuala Lumpur International Airport four hours later.

We were received by Mujib Rahman, a driver arranged by my niece, Divya. He took us to her place, a lux-

ury flat on the 21st story of a condominium opposite Bukit Jalil stadium, where Commonwealth Games were held. After a wash and change of clothes, we were off in Rahman’s SUV to Batu Caves.

The limestone forming Batu Caves is believed to be around 400 million years old. They were known only to local residents until 1878 when the American naturalist William Temple Hornaday brought it to light. K. Thamboosamy Pillay, a leader of the Tamil Hindu community in Malaya (as the region was then called), built a temple within the caves in 1891.

There are 272 steps to climb to reach the top. Right below the cave

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“A great marriage is not when the ‘perfect couple’ comes together. It is when an imperfect couple learns to enjoy their differences.....

Dave Meurer” JULY 2020 TOURISM INDIA

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TRAVELOGUE

is a beautiful golden Murugan statue and at the top, there are a lot of other deities and small temples.

The caves themselves are mesmerising as the limestones eroded with the passage of time gives the caves a haunting feel. Suddenly it started raining. That is the beauty of the tropical climate. Sun and rain play hide and seek throughout the day. From there we started our journey to Genting Highlands, a highlight of Kuala Lumpur. On the way, we stopped at a strawberry farm with 52

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an abundance of Lavender, Orchids, Anthurium and Gerbera flowers.

Mujib Rahman left us at lower Genting where we had lunch at an Indian-cum-Malayan restaurant and tried the Nasi Goreng, which is a type of Malayan fried rice and then bought tickets for glass-floored gondolas. Genting Skyway is also recognised as the ‘World’s Fastest Mono Cable Car System’ with a maximum speed of 21.6 kilometers an hour and the ‘Longest Cable Car in Malaysia’ and probably in South-

east Asia.

Resorts World Genting is an integrated hill resort development comprising hotels, shopping malls, theme parks, and casinos, perched on the peak of Mount Ulu Kali at 1,800 meters high and nestled near the border between the states of Pahang and Selangor, Malaysia.

Our second day in Kuala Lumpur started early as we had booked the 9 am entrance ticket to Petronas Tower. To escape traffic snarls, Mujib suggested we leave by seven and reached there by 8.45 am. Once considered the tallest building in the world from 1998 to 2004, the Petronas Towers designed by Cesar Pelli stand as a cultural and architectural icon in Kuala Lumpur. Completed in 1998, the Towers are a reflection and homage to the dominant Islamic culture of Malaysia. On Tuesday it was our 30th wedding anniversary.

So we got the opportunity to be together on the 86th floor of the towers and we captured the moment and got a framed photograph as a souvenir for 63 Malaysian Ringets.

Next on our agenda was the bird sanctuary, which is home to more than 3,000 birds of 200 local and foreign species. The main feature that distinguishes Kuala Lumpur Bird Park from other bird parks is the concept of free-flight. It took us more than three hours to cover the park. We later had lunch at an Indian restaurant, ‘M Grill’, owned by our guide and driver. Our next visit was to the aquarium which is an oceanarium beneath the KLCC convention center and is one of the largest aquariums in South East Asia. One of the highlights of Aquaria KLCC is a giant tank, a 90m walk-through tunnel with a moving travelator in its center. Inside you’ll be surrounded by sand tiger sharks, huge stingrays, and more. The Stream plays host to the giant water rat and the adorable Asian small-clawed otter.

After dinner, we left by bus for Penang, our next destination. The bus reached Penang at 5 am. As the hotel check-in time was 3 pm, we washed at the bus terminal and after breakfast, we left for Georgetown, the capital of Penang. Georgetown is listed as a Unesco World Cultural Heritage Site. After leaving our luggage in our hotel, we went to check out the city.

In 2012 Penang’s municipal council hired London-trained Lithuanian artist Ernest Zacharevic and entrusted him with breathing new life into some of the atmospheric Chinese shop-houses around the inner city. The project was a success with Zacharevic turning certain areas into thriving tourist destinations.

In the afternoon we took a bus to a famous Chinese temple, Kek Lok Si, on a hilltop at Air Itam, near Penang Hill. Kek Lok Si is the largest Buddhist temple in Malaysia. The complex is divided into three zones while the temple grounds comprise the hill entrance, souvenir, food, and drinks

stalls and the turtle liberation pond.

Next on our list was Penang Hill.

The Habitat Penang Hill provides the most authentic, diverse, and educational Malaysian rainforest experience. At the Curtis Crest Tree Top Walk at the top of Penang Hill, we had 360-degree panoramic views of Penang Island from the highest viewing point of Penang. That evening we took grab taxi and went to upside studio and from there saw beach Fort Cornwallis, Esplanade, and all other government buildings.

We returned to the pavement cafes of George Town where we had a variety of tortillas, apple crumble with chocolate sauce, and soya milk and tea.

We took a bus from Penang at 10.30 pm and reached Malacca at 7 am. After breakfast at a Tamilian restaurant, we caught a taxi to Victoria Square where lies the history of Malacca. The main square of Malacca is the center of the town and all other places are at a walkable distance from there. We also went on

a cruise and to Jonker’s Street famous for the varied cuisine culture of Malacca. We returned to Kuala Lumpur by 10 pm, home carrying a load of pictures and wonderful memories of our first trip abroad.

NIPUNA SUDHA

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NEWS / INTERNATIONAL

PORTUGAL IS OPEN P

Portugal being recognised as the first European destination to be distinguished with the “TravelSafe” seal by the WTTC

ortugal has declared itself prepared and open to receive foreign tourists once again. The situation in the country is evolving very positively and the majority of the country will be open as of the 1st of July with minimum restrictions imposed on the population.

Since the beginning of May, when the first phase of reintegration began, the country has seen considerable improvements regarding: Number of hospitalizations, Hospitalizations in Intensive Care Units (ICU, Number of deaths,Number of active cases. This positive evolution allows that mostly the entire country to leave the State of Calamity and start to be only on Alert State.Portugal is the 6th country in Europe in number of tests, having already completed more than 1.1 million, which accounts for more than 10% of the population) it was recently considered essential to apply some contingency rules to some areas on the outskirts of Lisbon - such as the closing of some commercial establishments at 8pm and the prohibition of gatherings with more than 10 people.

However, hotels, restaurants, supermarkets, health services, gas stations and sports equipment maintain normal opening hours.

The same applies to all museums, cultural facilities, etc. There is also no limitation on the movement of residents or tourists and all transport is fully operational. There is no situation of closure or quarantine in Lisbon.

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The application of these rules is part of the procedures that Portugal has taken since the beginning of the crisis, which has allowed for exemplary control over the progress of the pandemic and has resulted in international praise. These measures also allow all tourist and cultural facilities to be open and functioning in full, ensuring the necessary security of those who wish to visit the Lisbon region.

Other popular tourist regions in Portugal such as the Algarve, Madeira, Porto and Northern Region, continue their path of continuous reduction of cases. Other regions such as the Azores, Alentejo and Centre Region are already being increasingly sought after by national and foreign tourists.

Portugal is the 3rd safest country in the world (Global Peace Index 2020) and the entire sector, from companies and private operators to the various public sector agents, is appropriately prepared so that the resumption of activity can generate maximum confidence in visitors and tourists, fulfilling all hygiene and safety conditions.

The creation of the Clean & Safe seal was decisive. The initiative, which already has more than 17,000 voluntary memberships from the various companies and activities in the sector, is consolidated every day through its digital platform - Available in two languages (Portuguese and English), it gathers information about all participating establish-

ments, allowing tourists themselves to classify the developments regarding compliance with sanitary conditions. The training necessary for companies to implement the associated measures was also ensured, with more than 20,000 people already trained.

This project for the resumption of the national tourist activity won Portugal the invitation of the OMT (World Tourism Organization) to present, in the organization’s world assembly, the good practices of the sector. This contributed decisively towards Portugal being recognised as the first European destination to be distinguished with the “TravelSafe” seal by the WTTC (World Travel & TourismCouncil). Also, the fact that Portugal was the country chosen to hold the final phase of the Champions League is already a huge demonstration of international confidence.

The reopening of airlines between Portugal and several European destinations is underway. In the short term, a 45% recovery of air routes is expected in July and around 60% in August, with all equipment, activities, and companies in the sector open and prepared to receive visitors and tourists.

Portugal, the Best Destination in the World, remains authentic, diverse, attractive, inclusive, and safe.

It maintains the purpose and the commitment to guarantee everyone that they can travel around the country, safe and with confidence.

Portugal was founded in 1143, making it one of the oldest nations in Europe. Portugal is named after its 2nd largest city, Porto. The World Heritage List in Portugal consists of 17 Portuguese assets. In 2019, Portugal received 26.9 million tourists.

With the longest bridge in Europe, Portugal is also a very popular destination from India for those looking for a Euro break and an extension to their Spain and Morocco itineraries.

The total flight duration from Portugal to India is 10 hours, 42 minutes and India is 5:30 hours ahead of Portugal.

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NEWS / OUTBOUND

REDISCOVER MALDIVES...

THE SUNNY SIDE OF LIFE MALDIVES RESUMES TOURISM ACTIVITIES AFTER COVID 19 LOCKDOWN WITH THE LAUNCH OF NEW MARKETING CAMPAIGN

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o commence the reopening of borders for all nationalities in Maldives, and to launch the “Rediscover Maldives…the sunny side of life” campaign, Maldives Marketing & Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC) has hosted a virtual press conference recently.

Top international media from 21 countries including the main source markets, China, Italy, India, Germany, Russia, UK, France, Saudi Arabia and Japan, participated in this live conference with almost 300 attendees in total.

The campaign aims to strengthen the market presence to welcome back tourists once again.

All marketing activities will be carried out under one campaign tagline; “Rediscover Maldives… the sunny side of life” for the rest of 2020.

In the opening statement, Mr. Thoyyib Mohamed, the Managing Director of MMPRC spoke about how the government and private sector have been working hard to ensure safety and hygiene standards for travelers in the new normal. He also mentioned that the Maldives is fully 56 56

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prepared to welcome back tourists and that safety of tourists and staff are top priority.

The remarks were followed by further statements from the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Abdulla Shahid. According to Mr. Abdulla Shahid, responding to COVID-19 has been tough but we have come back stronger as Maldives is a safe destination for all tourists and staff. Minister of Health, Honorable Abdulla Ameen mentioned a sense of relief and excitement as we

welcome back tourists. He also gave the reassurance that proper health and safety measures have been put in place around the country to ensure an enjoyable vacation for visitors.

The virtual press conference was also translated into three languages in real time as it was carried out; Chinese, Russian and Korean. The conference ended with a Q&A session where the speakers clarified enquiries of journalists from around the globe.

The day also marks the arrival of the first tourists since the closing of borders on 27th March 2020. Connecting from various countries, 107 foreigners arrived on the first commercial Qatar Airways flight to land in Maldives since borders closed.

The event and the campaign are amongst the first initiatives to promote the destination once borders are reopened. With the onset of tourism adapting to the “new normal” and under proper safety precautions, MMPRC has a variety of activities planned for the year. H.E President Solih has announced a target of 850, 000 visitors by the end of 2020.

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