TOURISM INDIA SEPTEMBER 2020

INCREDIBLE INDIA

WONDERFUL WORLD AIRLINES ONLINE TECHNOLOGY

24

th

SEPTEMBER 2020 VOL. 23 NO. 05 Pages 60

tourismindiaonline.com

tourismindiamagazine

tourismindiamag

RAY OF

HOPE

ROUTES INTO THE ROOTS KERALA’S GIFT TO INDUSTRY WORLD TOURISM DAY 2020: TOURISM AND RURAL DEVELOPMENT

6

SEPTEMBER 2020 TOURISM INDIA

Editor’s Note

Race to Recovery

T

he Tourism industry is currently in a Race to Recovery. The hospitality industry all over the world is facing turbulent times across all aspects and key inbound, domestic & outbound markets are only expected to recover by the first half of next year.

Hotels all around the world are also on this difficult road to recovery. Digitalization initiatives and circumstances have forced change but also have helped the hotel industry during these challenging times. Measures like touch-less check-in & check-out services, contactless billing, touchless sanitizer dispensing centers, mobile-friendly dining menus, contactless orders, payments, and delivery options will help hoteliers to deliver responsible yet quality guest experiences.

As we prepare to live with this new normal caused by the SARS-CoV-2 Virus, sustainable prep is required across destinations regardless of how this pandemic will end. This new normal is the best time for Tourism to evolve so we can create a better place to live and unleash the rising potential of new and sustainable kinds of tourism.

This situation has largely been a restart to a lot of industries and sectors and now is the right time to start. The negative impact of COVID-19 on the tourism industry can be turned into an opportunity to fix long haul challenges in the sector. Not using this time to evolve and adapt to the times would be a grave mistake and could possibly lead to the demise of tourism.

Taking into account a wide range of disciplines within this industry, improving safety and fostering creative

www.tourismindia.org

solutions seems to be the best course forward. This is the time to explore a multi-disciplinary approach to tourism across professions.

The tourism industry can no longer ignore the issue of total tourism security, which has often been called “tourism surety.” As the industry is very sensitive and it cannot afford terrorism natural or political disasters.

Since the world is connected through the internet and transportation, It is sure what impacts one part of the tourism industry, in the end, will impact the entire industry.

This time the policy should evolve to control over-tourism by enforcing carrying capacity to enable social distancing to implement waste management to deal with the hazards of biomedical waste. In this new normal, the disposal of face masks, gloves, PPEs, shields, sanitizers, is another area to resolve as tourism rebounds.

To encourage responsible travel, campaigns for travellers which make them aware that tourism de7 velopment focuses on the needs of the local community and the preservation of their traditional way of life but facilitate access to urban conveniences that helps to pave the way for sustainability and resilience.

Tourism policies must evolve to create a COVIDready, sustainable, resilient destination, to gradually unleash the country’s immense tourism potential of the travel and tourism industry.

Rajani A Editor

SEPTEMBER 2020 TOURISM INDIA

7

Contents SEPTEMBER 2020 VOL 23 NO 05 Cover Hoysala Sculpture Photo by Manoj Vasudevan

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 ONLINE EDITION VAISHNAV RAMAKRISHNAN

10 12 14 16 20

WORLD TOURISM DAY 2020: TOURISM AND RURAL DEVELOPMENT WTTC CALLS FOR ‘air corridors’ to restore business travel TOURISM RESTARTS: 65% OF DESTINATIONS HAVE NOW EASED TRAVEL RESTRICTIONS WTTC launches Safe Travels protocols for Adventure Travel Tourism on way as sustainable livelihood model for women’s empowerment

BUSINESS & EDITORIAL ASSOCIATES

NEW DELHI D Anilkumar +91 9868123311

MUMBAI K V Satyanath +91 9745598126

KOLKATA Jayasree Singh +91 943306033

BANGALURU Damodaran K Nair +91 8310955261

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: 9847060531 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 9745598126 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

8

SEPTEMBER 2020 TOURISM INDIA

22 26

Kerala announces financial PACKAGE FOR houseboats & tourist guides FAITH asks Anti- competitive travel tax TCS to be withdrawn

28

KERALA tourism sector should be opened immediately - CKTI

30

Karnataka TOURISM INDUSTRY seeks government support

32

IndiGo operates 50,000 flights since lockdown

Contents 34

Sarovar Hotels promotes Shatabdi Dutta as the GM- Marketing

35

Ms. Jyoti Mayal, elected as Chairperson of Tourism & Hospitality Skill Council

36

Sheraton Grand Chennai Resort & Spa Reopens

38

SAYAJI HOTELS REOPENS WITH CARE BEYOND COMPARE

40

BON APPETIT WITH PRIDE CATERING

42

Routes into the Roots an Empirical Perspective

50

INDIAN HOTEL CO. announces a SeleQtions Hotel In Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve

52

Masaba Gupta Adds An Airbnb Twist To Working From Home

54

RCI UNVEILS THE ‘NEW SHAPE OF TRAVEL’

56

MALAYSIA LAUNCHES CAMPAIGN CUTI-CUTI MALAYSIA

57

DATO’ SERI RAMLAN BIN IBRAHIM APPOINTED AS NEW TOURISM MALAYSIA CHAIRMAN

58

VFTCB Launches Montco Wellness Initiative

9

www.tourismindia.org

SEPTEMBER 2020 TOURISM INDIA

9

NEWS / INTERNATIONAL

T WORLD TOURISM DAY 2020: TOURISM AND RURAL DEVELOPMENT All around the world, tourism empowers rural communities, providing jobs and opportunity, most notably for women and youth

10

SEPTEMBER 2020 TOURISM INDIA

he 2020 edition of World Tourism Day will celebrate the unique role that tourism plays in providing opportunities outside of big cities and preserving cultural and natural heritage all around the world.

Celebrated on 27 September with the theme of “Tourism and Rural Development”, this year’s international day of observation comes at a critical moment, as countries around the world look to tourism to drive recovery, including in rural communities where the sector is a leading employer and economic pillar.

The 2020 edition also comes as governments look to the sector to drive recovery from the effects of the pandemic and with the enhanced recognition of tourism at the highest United Nations level. This was most notably illustrated with the recent release of a landmark Policy Brief on tourism from UN

All around the world, tourism empowers rural communities, providing jobs and opportunity, most notably for women and youth. Tourism also enables rural communities to hold onto their unique cultural heritage and traditions, and the sector is vital for safeguarding habitat and endangered species.

Mr. Zurab Pololikashvili Secretary-General UNWTO Secretary-General Antonio Guterres in which he explained that “for rural communities, indigenous peoples and many other historically marginalized populations, tourism has been a vehicle for integration, empowerment and generating income.”

Historic International Cooperation

For the first time in the 40-year history of World Tourism Day, the official celebration will not be hosted by a single Member State of the United Nations specialized agency. Instead, nations from the Mercosur bloc (Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay and Uruguay, with Chile joining with observer status) will www.tourismindia.org

serve as joint hosts. This co-hosting agreement exemplifies the spirit of international solidarity that runs through tourism and which UNWTO has recognized as essential for recovery.

UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili said: “All around the world, tourism empowers rural communities, providing jobs and opportunity, most notably for women and youth. Tourism also enables rural communities to hold onto their unique cultural heritage and traditions, and the sector is vital for safeguarding habitat and endangered species. This World Tourism Day is a chance to recognize the role tourism plays outside of major cities and its ability to build a better future for all.”

other destinations and by private sector organizations and individual tourists. It comes as communities in rural areas also struggle with the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. These communities are usually much less-prepared to deal with the short and longer-term impacts of the crisis. This is due to a number of factors, including their aging populations, lower income levels and the continuing ‘digital divide’.

Tourism offers a solution to all of these challenges.

Rural areas hit hard

by COVID-19

For countless rural communities around the world, tourism is a leading provider of employment and opportunities. In many places, it is one of the few viable economic sectors. Moreover, development through tourism can also keep rural communities alive. It is estimated that by 2050, 68% of the world population will live in urban areas, while 80% of those currently living in ‘extreme poverty’ live outside of towns and cities.

The situation is particularly hard for youth: young people 11 in rural communities are three times more likely to be unemployed than older adults. Tourism is a lifeline, offering young people a chance to earn a living without having to migrate either within their home countries or abroad.

World Tourism Day 2020 will once again be celebrated by UNWTO’s Member States in all global regions as well as by cities and SEPTEMBER 2020 TOURISM INDIA

11

NEWS / GLOBAL

WTTC CALLS FOR ‘AIR CORRIDORS’ TO RESTORE BUSINESS TRAVEL WTTC calls for ‘air corridors’ between key global cities to restore business travel Global inbound business travel contributes more than US$272 (£215) billion a year

I

t is crucial that international business travel resumes, following its near-collapse due to the coronavirus pandemic. The restoration of ‘air corridors’ between the world’s top financial centers is vital to reviving international business travel and help kickstart the global economic recovery, according to the World

12

SEPTEMBER 2020 TOURISM INDIA

Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC).

WTTC is calling for the introduction of a pilot scheme, involving airport-based testing, followed by a second test just days later, for travel between the financial hubs of London and New York, with the aim of re-starting business travel.

An analysis of Public Health

England’s data by WTTC suggests two tests in quick succession could be 80% effective in identifying passengers with COVID-19 and thus reduce the quarantine period from 14 to four to six days or no quarantine at all.

Each year, inbound international business travel accounts for more than US$272 (£215) billion. While

leisure travel makes up the bulk of international Travel & Tourism spend (83.77%), (inbound) international business travel (at 16.23%) is relied upon heavily by many international airlines, which depend upon frequent flying business travellers, especially on highly competitive routes across the Atlantic, for their profits.

The restoration of international business travel across the Atlantic could benefit the entire Travel & Tourism sector; from airlines and hotels to travel management companies and ground transport providers, reviving tens of thousands of jobs and a multitude of companies that depend upon business travel for their survival.

However, WTTC warns this will only happen if the government takes a targeted approach, ditching blunt country-wide quarantines which have a devastating economic impact.

Ms. Gloria Guevara, WTTC President & CEO, said: “While the recent ‘island policy’ introduced by the UK government marks a step in the right direction with a more targeted approach, WTTC believes a laser-like focus is necessary to reopen key international business routes, which could provide a significant economic boost.

“Flights must be restored along ‘city corridors’ linking cities with similar low COVID-19 case numbers, such as between London and New York, Washington, Paris, Frankfurt, Dubai, Amsterdam, Hong Kong, and Shanghai.

“Every time the UK government places another destination on its quarantine list, the economy suffers. International business travel is the lifeblood of the global economy contributing more than US$272 (£215) billion a year. Therefore, the government should abandon quarantines www.tourismindia.org

Airport testing pilot corridor between London and New York could herald the return of international travel which don’t work, and focus on more targeted measures like ‘city corridors’.

“The WTTC pilot scheme with its twin test regime will help reassure corporates that it is safe for their employees to travel and remove the need for unhelpful quarantines.

“We need a concerted international framework at the highest level to introduce comprehensive, rapid, and costeffective testing at airports, with a worldwide accepted standard of contact tracing and widespread use of face masks.

“To continue with the current chaos would be a huge mistake and would cause further 13 severe economic damage and unnecessary hardship to millions around the world.”

The UK is the fourth biggest G20 economy in terms of international Travel & Tourism spend from business travel, which amounted to US$9.5 (£7.5) billion in 2019; 26.5% of all international Travel & Tourism spend.

Of the other G20 countries, the US had the highest international business travel spend in 2019,

at US$47.75 (£37.72) billion.

Germany was second with US$12.8 (£10.1) billion, China was third with US$10.7 (£8.45) billion, and Russia was fifth with US$8.6 (£6.8) billion.

Recently, WTTC revealed a staggering £22 billion – or £60 million a day – could be lost from the UK economy due to the collapse of international travel during 2020.

Travel restrictions, such as quarantines introduced by the government, has seen international travel and visitor numbers to the UK collapse.

International visitor spending was predicted to plunge by 78% compared to 2019 levels, putting three million UK Travel & Tourism jobs at direct risk of being lost in a ‘worst case’ scenario mapped out

by WTTC economic modeling.

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

The health and safety of travellers and those who work within the sector have always been its number one priority. It has urged the adoption of global health and safety protocols, through its ‘Safe Travels’ initiative, to provide assurance to travellers and those working within the sector.

It also says there is ample evidence from other countries that suggest only those who test positive for coronavirus should be quarantined.

WTTC advocates the implementation of a rapid test and trace strategy, with strong collaboration between governments to ensure a standardised global approach to the crisis, which is critical to contain the virus and enable people to travel in safety.

SEPTEMBER 2020 TOURISM INDIA

13

NEWS/ GLOBAL TRENDS

TOURISM RESTARTS: 65% OF DESTINATIONS HAVE NOW EASED TRAVEL RESTRICTIONS Coordinated leadership and enhanced cooperation between governments means tourism is slowly but steadily restarting in many parts of the world

A

majority of destinations around the world (53%) have now started easing travel restrictions introduced in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Though many remain cautious in view of the development of the pandemic, the seventh edition of the UNWTO “COVID-19 Related Travel Restrictions: A Global Review for Tourism” confirms the ongoing trend towards the gradual restart of tourism.

Analysing restrictions up to 1 September, the research 14

SEPTEMBER 2020 TOURISM INDIA

carried out by the United Nations specialized agency for tourism found that a total of 115 destinations (53% of all destinations worldwide) have eased travel restrictions, an increase of 28 since 19 July. Of these, two have lifted all restrictions, while the remaining 113 continue to have certain restrictive measures in place.

UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili said: “Coordinated leadership and enhanced cooperation

between governments means tourism is slowly but steadily restarting in many parts of the world. Starting to ease restrictions on travel opens also the doors for tourism’s social and economic benefits to return.

While we must remain vigilant and cautious, we are concerned about those destinations with ongoing full travel restrictions, especially where tourism is a lifeline and economic and social development are under threat.”

For the first time, the COVID-19 Related Travel

Restrictions report includes key data on the health and hygiene infrastructure in place at destinations, while also analysing rate of notifications of new COVID-19 cases. This allows UNWTO to determine the factors that are influencing destinations’ decisions to ease restrictions. Notably, the report shows: Destinations which have eased travel restrictions generally have high or very high levels of health and hygiene infrastructure. They also tend to have comparatively low COVID-19 infection rates.

Within advanced economies, 79% of tourism destinations have already eased restrictions.

In emerging economies, just 47% of destinations have done so.

64% of those destinations which have eased have a high

Governments in every world region have the dual responsibility of prioritizing public health while protecting jobs and businesses or medium dependence on air as a mode of transport for international tourism arrivals.

At the same time, the report shows that many destinations around the world are extremely cautious about

15

www.tourismindia.org

easing travel restrictions they introduced in response to the pandemic and some have passed severe measures in an attempt to keep their citizens safe. 93 destinations (43% of all worldwide destinations) continue to have their borders completely closed to tourism, of which 27 have had their borders completely closed for at least 30 weeks.

Furthermore, more than half of all destinations with borders completely closed to tourism are classified as being among the World’s Most Vulnerable Countries. They include 10 SIDS (Small Island Developing States), one Least Developed Country (LDC) and three Land-Locked Developing Countries (LLDCs). More than half of destinations with full restrictions still in place are also highly dependent on aviation, with at least 70% of their tourist arrivals coming by air, causing significant connectivity impacts for their citizens and economies.

UNWTO continues to monitor the impact of COVID-19 on the tourism. From the start, the UN specialized agency has advised that the situation is fluid and that, even as tourism restarts in some regions, in others, restrictions may be tightened and borders re-closed.

Similarly, UNWTO has observed a rise in travel advisories being issued by governments for their own citizens, alongside more and varied restrictions and other measures directed at passengers arriving from specific countries or regions.

SEPTEMBER 2020 TOURISM INDIA

15

NEWS / GLOBAL TRENDS

WTTC

LAUNCHES SAFE TRAVELS

PROTOCOLS

FOR ADVENTURE TRAVEL New measures help to rebuild confidence for travellers and the latest phases of protocols aid the reopening of Travel & Tourism sector

T

he World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) has unveiled the latest set of measures designed to rebuild global consumer confidence, reduce risk and encourage the return of Safe Travels.

The latest protocols for the global Travel & Tourism sector 16

SEPTEMBER 2020 TOURISM INDIA

focus on measures to ensure the reopening of adventure tourism, which should see an increase in popularity as travellers seek more unique experiences post COVID-19.

WTTC, which represents the global Travel & Tourism private sector, held detailed discussions

with key stakeholders and organisations to ensure maximum buy-in, alignment and practical implementation.

The measures help to set clear expectations of what travellers can experience in the ‘new normal’ which offer safe environments as travel restrictions are eased.

Backed by UNWTO, the WTTC protocols also take into account guidelines from the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and the WTTC Safe Travels stamp recognises those destinations, countries, businesses and governments worldwide which have adopted them.

Protocols for the adventure tourism industry were compiled on the basis of insights and frameworks developed by the Adventure Travel Trade Association (ATTA), in collaboration with a number of key tour operators in the segment such as Abercrombie & Kent, Eurotur, Intrepid and The Travel Corporation (TTC), to support the safe, healthy and responsible restart of adventure tourism around the world.

Within these protocols, the adventure tourism industry refers to a wide variety of adventure tourism experiences including cycling, rafting, trekking, skiing, snowboarding, wildlife safaris and culinary tours, among others.

Not only are these activities mostly outdoors, thus limiting time spent in indoors; but group sizes can be managed to allow for

physical distancing. It is expected that this type of tourism will see growth in the post-COVID landscape.

Ms. Gloria Guevara, WTTC President & CEO, said: “Adventure tourism is becoming increasingly popular amongst travellers and will represent a key component to travel in the new normal. According to our recently launched COVID-19 Travel Demand Recovery Dashboard, it is also one of the fastest growing segments, which is why it is vital to establish measures allowing safe travels for adventure travellers.

“Consumer confidence is crucial for Travel & Tourism to resume.

We know travellers will want to

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

explore the world around them once more, so long as they are confident in their safety. The return of Travel & Tourism will help power the world’s much-needed economic recovery, which is why these protocols are so important.

“We would like to pay tribute to all those companies in the global private sector who have stepped forward and rallied around in support of the WTTC Safe Travels protocols. They create the consistency needed to allow a re-invigorated Travel & Tourism sector to re-open for business.

“The expertise from businesses large and small has contributed to define the new experience for travellers, and these robust glob-

17

www.tourismindia.org

SEPTEMBER 2020 TOURISM INDIA

17

NEWS / TRAVEL TRENDS al measures have been embraced around the world.”

Mr. Shannon Stowell, ATTA CEO, said “As tourism, our priority now is to see adventure travel come back strong, resilient and sustainably. WTTC and ATTA collaborating on global guidelines for adventure travel is a significant effort to support companies worldwide in re-opening as quickly and safely as possible.”

The welfare of travellers and the millions of people employed throughout the Travel & Tourism sector at the heart of WTTC’s comprehensive package of Safe Travels protocols.

They avoid the emergence of multiple standards, which would only confuse the consumer and delay the sector’s recovery.

They also provide consistency

18

SEPTEMBER 2020 TOURISM INDIA

to destinations and countries as well as guidance to travel providers, airlines, airports, operators, and travellers, about the new approach to health and hygiene in the post COVID-19 world.

WTTC divided the new guidance into four pillars including operational and staff preparedness; delivering a safe experience; rebuilding trust and confidence; and implementing enabling policies.

Measures announced includes:

Reduce participant capacity limits for activities as appropriate to allow for physical distancing Ensured activity difficulty levels do not exceed guest ability and skill, thus decreasing the need for a possible

rescue Provide clear, consistent, and up-to-date communication on new health & hygiene protocols via the organisation’s channels, both digitally and physically through clear signage Promote contact tracing apps if required by local legislation Inform guests about support available if questions or concerns arise Share guest guidelines ahead of trip or activity digitally and in person upon arrival on the basis of advice from health authorities, which may include the wearing of face masks or coverings, guidance on hand hygiene and avoiding physical contact. Consider

having consumers acknowledge guidelines Encouraged guests to purchase tickets online if possible Keep the same households, families, or members of group bookings together for all activities to lower risk of exposure for those outside of that unit, wherever possible Ensure, where possible, that each guest can handle their own equipment and gear for the duration of the trip. Where possible, guests should be encouraged bring their own equipment or gear, such as bikes, skis, and helmets among others Limited physical contact and queuing where possible WTTC has previously issued details safe travel protocols

“As tourism, our priority now is to see adventure travel come back strong, resilient and sustainably.

WTTC and ATTA collaborating on global guidelines for adventure travel is a significant effort to support companies worldwide in reopening as quickly and safely as possible”.

Mr. Shannon Stowell, ATTA CEO,

for aviation, airlines, MICE, tour operators, hospitality, outdoor retail, attractions, car hire and short-term rental, which were widely endorsed and supported by top CEOs and business leaders globally.

It has also unveiled its landmark new global safety stamp to encourage Safe Travels and the reopening of the Travel & Tourism sector.

Evidence from WTTC’s Crisis Readiness report, which looked at 90 different types of crises, highlights the importance of public-private cooperation to ensure that smart policies and effective communities are in place to enable a more resilient Travel & Tourism sector.

19

www.tourismindia.org

SEPTEMBER 2020 TOURISM INDIA

19

NEWS/ NATIONAL

TOURISM ON WAY AS SUSTAINABLE LIVELIHOOD MODEL

FOR WOMEN’S EMPOWERMENT

The MoU marks the beginning of a new era of cooperation and synergy between the Ministry of Tourism, TAAI and FLO.

Mr. Prahlad Singh Patel, Union MoS Culture and Tourism (Independent Charge) virtually witnesses the signing ceremony of an MoU between Ministry of Tourism, Travel Agents Association of India & FICCI Ladies Organisation to promote tourism as sustainable livelihood model for womenâ s economic empowerment, in New Delhi on Aug 21, 2020.

20

SEPTEMBER 2020 TOURISM INDIA

M

inistry of Tourism has virtually signed an MoU with Travel Agents Association of India (TAAI) & FICCI Ladies Organisation(FLO) to promote tourism as sustainable livelihood model for women’s economic empowerment.

Through this initiative FLO & TAAI would lay emphasis on personal and hospitality skills, a more flexible work balance and greater options for entrepreneurship with significantly lower capital.

The MoU will give an opportunity to increase participation of women in the tourism sector and make them an integral part of the tourism workforce of the country said Mr. Prahlad Singh Patel, Union Minister of State for Tourism Speaking on the occasion Mr Prahlad Singh Patel said that women in our country are excelling in different fields. We have the best of women doctors, pilots, Scientists and Businesswomen. Women have also excelled in various adventure related activities and sports like mountaineering, trekking, bicycling, etc. Today, women form an important component of our Armed Forces. And we are a nation where women have assumed positions of the Prime Minister and President of the country.

Mr. Patel further added that there is a need to organize and popularise training and skill development programmes targeting women, including those in rural and remote areas, make them aware of digital technologies and facilitate them to be part of decision making at the community level. Therefore, it becomes our moral responsibility to ensure that women in the travel and tourism sector are encouraged to come forward and participate in the development of tourism, which would not only benefit the sector,

www.tourismindia.org

The MoU will give an opportunity to increase participation of women in the tourism sector and make them an integral part of the tourism workforce of the country and marks the beginning of a new era of cooperation and synergy between the Ministry of Tourism, TAAI and FLO. but would also help in their upliftment and empowerment. There are many areas in tourism where women can excel, like homestays, tourist facilitators, catering business and more.

He expressed his happiness to see the work being done for the betterment of women by TAAI and the FICCI Ladies Organisation (FLO), through their chapters across the country. The signed MoU between the Ministry of Tourism, TAAI and FLO, will give us an opportunity to join hands and take initiatives right till the grass root level to increase

participation of women in the tourism sector and make them an integral part of the tourism workforce of the country.

The MoU marks the beginning of a new era of cooperation and synergy between the Ministry of Tourism, TAAI and FLO. The State Chapters of FLO and TAAI will create awareness, along with state tourism departments and state tourism corporations, to highlight the vital role, the tourism industry can play as a model for sustainable livelihood for women and ensure their economic upliftment. This collaboration will help in initiating and engaging women at grassroot level, the middle level in semi urban, urban areas and the urban educated unemployed. FLO and TAAI will be the facilitators in the process connecting women with the relevant stakeholders, undertake training in specific verticals for enhancing their livelihood opportunities, increasing their self-awareness as equal partners in the nationÂ’s growth and working towards their economic empowerment.

21

SEPTEMBER 2020 TOURISM INDIA

21

NEWS/ NATIONAL

KERALA ANNOUNCES FINANCIAL PACKAGE FOR HOUSEBOATS & TOURIST GUIDES

Tourism Houseboats Support Scheme- A onetime maintenance grant to the licensed houseboats and financial assistance to the licensed tourism guides in Kerala 20

22

SEPTEMBER2020 TOURISM INDIA SEPTEMBER 2020 TOURISM INDIA

K

erala State Tourism Department has announced a one-time financial aid to houseboats and tourist guides who have lost their jobs and business due to COVID 19 related lockdown and travel restriction imposed globally since March 2020. Mr. Kadakampally Surendran, Minister for Tourism, Government of Kerala in a media conference said that the Special assistance scheme of the State Tourism Department is to protect the stagnant houseboat sector in the context of COVID 19 and to assist tourist guides.

Mr. Kadakampally Surendran said that the state tourism department will provide a one-time financial assistance of Rs 10,000 for each tourist guide. It will benefit 251 tourist guides

operating in the state with the approval of the Kerala Tourism Department and 77 tourist guides approved by India Tourism. A total of 328 tourist guides will be assisted, the minister said. The Government has given the administrative sanction of `32,80,000 / - for this. This benefit is available to regional, local, and statelevel guides working with the approval of the Central and State Governments in the State.

The Department of Tourism has announced a one-time financial assistance scheme to protect the houseboat sector, which has come to a complete standstill due to COVID 19. Minister said that this financial assistance will be given as a maintenance grant to houseboats operating in Kerala. Rupees 80,000 / - for

Silver Vessel, 100,000 / for Gold Vessel and 1,20,000 / for Diamond Vessel categories.

Houseboats are classified for financial assistance based on the number of rooms and facilities. Silver Vessel classification of Kerala Tourism department is the category having minimum facilities and Diamond Vessel is category having highest facilities. The tourism minister said the application should be submitted before November 30.

Financial assistance will be provided for houseboats with valid registration by the Kerala Ports Department.

It is estimated that it will cost around Rs 10 crore. The one-time assistance fund for houseboats and tourist guides is the next step in announcing a Rs 455 crore

23

www.tourismindia.org

SEPTEMBER 2020 TOURISM INDIA 23 SEPTEMBER 2020 TOURISM INDIA 21

NEWS/ INDUSTRY loan assistance scheme for tourism entrepreneurs and workers.

Homestays are one of the best ways for tourists to enjoy our way of life, food, and culture. However, these homestays have so far been included in the commercial category by the local bodies.

Accordingly, the building tax was levied by the local bodies at the commercial rate.

It has been ordered to shift from the commercial rate to the category of Residential Homestay. Homestays in single-family buildings as well as tourist accommodation are included in the category of Special Residential Home Stay.

This is a solution to the longstanding need of homestay entrepreneurs in the state.

About 1000 homestay owners are expected to benefit from this.

The move will be a great relief to home stays entrepreneurs who have completely lost

24

SEPTEMBER 2020 TOURISM INDIA

Ms. Rani George IAS, Secretary, Kerala Tourism

their business due to COVID 19. The solution was found in consultation with the Local Self Government Department of Kerala Government.

A few weeks back, the Government of Kerala had launched two loan support schemes for the employers and employees in the tourism industry affected by COVID 19.

Ms. Rani George IAS, Secretary of Kerala Tourism said that these support schemes for the survival and revival of the tourism industry in Kerala would also be a small help for those in need in the sector. We have put in months of effort in bringing out the support schemes under the survival and revival package. It was a teamwork of the officials in the Department of Tourism led by our Hon Minister Tourism who had been supporting us from the initial days itself and his timely intervention has helped the department to get the schemes approved at the Government level.

Ms. Rani George also added that, along with this, allowing destinations to be re-open and allowing domestic tourists to visit Kerala following COVID protocols would help the revival of the tourism sector in Kerala. So we have also moved a proposal for a phased reopening of Kerala Tourism and

it is under the consideration of the Government and expecting a decision on the reopening of the tourism sector soon. But it is essential that everyone follow the SOPs and COVID protocols to keep all safe.

We have also requested industry stakeholders to take a more cautious approach while opening the destination.

We need to be very cautious in our approach to the reopening of the destinations and the tourism sector as any careless attitude on the part of the stakeholders and the tourists would affect our community badly, she added.

Ms. Rani George further explained that currently most of the stakeholders in the tourism industry in Kerala are desperate due to the sector being closed and all are hoping that the sector would open soon. The Department of Tourism has always supported and facilitated the tourism industry in Kerala and as always we are supporting the industry in this period of crisis due to COVID 19. Just as the Department had worked with a 12 Point Action plan and marketing and PR campaigns after the floods and brought back Kerala Tourism after the floods, we would together bring back Kerala Tourism again.

Mr. Bala Kiran IAS Director Kerala Tourism has congratulated the tourism industry for getting the schemes from Kerala Tourism and expressed his gratitude to www.tourismindia.org

Post the Unlock tourism is seeing some spur, but that too very limited, very short - haul domestic travel and not enough to make any tourism business viable the Hon Minister and Kerala Tourism secretary of the state for conceiving and sanctioning the above schemes in a largehearted manner. In fact, the Homestay issue has been resolved which was pending for more than a decade Mr. E.M. Najeeb, President of Confederation of Kerala Tourism Industry (CKTI), Mr. Baby Mathew Somatheeram, Secretary, Kerala Travel Mart Society (KTM), Mr. Sajeev Kurup, President of Ayurveda Promotion Society, Mr. Sivadatham, President of Kerala Home Stay Owners Association, Mr. Raveendran.K., 25 Past President of Wayanad Tourism Organization, has welcomed the announcement while expressing their happiness and gratitude to provide benefits to tourists guides, House Boats and new residential homestay category beneficial to small homestay owners.

Kerala Tourism industry

Associations and its each and every stakeholder of Kerala is Saluting to the Kerala Tourism for proactive steps at this time of critical juncture facing by the industry due to continuous lockdown and business uncertainties. This financial package in continuation of the first tranch of 455 crores, which was announced two backs are a model to other States and even to the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India as they are keeping their eyes closed towards Tourism Stakeholders, even after repeated appeals and cries.

The sector-wise consideration of employee package, stakeholders packages, Houseboat maintenance grant, and Tourists Guides aid package, along with the introduction of a new category for Homestays in Kerala shows the concerns and Empathy of the Kerala government towards the tourism industry, which is the largest employment provider and GDP contributor of the state.

Mr. Jobin Joseph Akkarakkalam, General Secretary, Kerala, House Boat Owners Federation and Mr. Vinod V. President, Kerala House Boat Owners Association are said that the financial package from the Kerala Tourism department is a great relief and help for houseboat owners to do maintenance and come back to the business.

SEPTEMBER 2020 TOURISM INDIA

25

NEWS / ASSOCIATIONS

FAITH ASKS ANTICOMPETITIVE TRAVEL TAX TCS TO BE WITHDRAWN Creates an un-level playing field for Indian travel agents & tour operators on outbound business & even international & South Asia business; Threatens to demolish Indian travel agents & tour operators by making them expensive 5-10% vs global peers on outbound travel

F

ederation of Associations in Indian Tourism & Hospitality, the policy federation of all the national associations representing the complete tourism, travel and hospitality industry of India (ADTOI, ATOAI, FHRAI, HAI, IATO, ICPB, IHHA, ITTA, TAAI, TAFI) & cause partner AIRDA has requested the withdrawal of the proposed TCS on outbound travel from October 1st as proposed in the Finance Bill 2020. It’s imposition which was supposed to happen on April 1st was deferred on request from the industry.

However, it was not abolished and it is now set to be levied on October 1st.

26

SEPTEMBER 2020 TOURISM INDIA

The TCS is uncompetitive Implementation of this proposal will have an unprecedented negative impact on Indian travel agents & tour operators.

India is now on Unlock 4 and travel corridors are now beginning to get opened up. Indian travel agents & tour operators are looking forward to some business income from revival of travel bookings.

However, the TCS of 5% (10% on those without PAN) will instead of providing income to Indian travel agents & Tour Operators will shift it to Foreign based travel booking agents & operators. This is due to its anti - competitive character

against Indian travel intermediaries. This takes away their level playing field against foreign competitors.

The tourism product sold from India will become almost 5% - 10% more expensive at the time of booking as against when booked through travel companies based outside of India. ( 5% for those with PAN & 10% for those without PAN).

As against these foreign based travel booking agents & operators, Indian travel agents & tour operators are already more expensive by the imposition of 5% GST on tours which foreign travel agents & tour operators are

not subject to when they sell the same product for Indians who are travelling outbound.

Faith said that Indian travel and tour operators will also not be able to diversify and sell to international passengers who anyways are not subject to Indian tax laws and thus cannot claim any tax refunds.

Indian tour operators and travel agents will also lose many business opportunities of selling our South Asia regional tourism products. This cluster approach is one of the key drivers for Indian inbound tourism.

FAITH Associations want the tax to go as it creates an unfair playing level for the outbound and inbound travel industry which is looking to restart from the ‘ BASE Zero’ will be impacted even it attempts to revive.

Needless to say it’s impact on employment and viability of Indian travel agents & tour operators will be devastating.

Travel industry works on a bilateral open market basis. With the reduced travel outbound from India and insolvency of many travel entities the outbound travel from India will be heavily impacted. Consequently, with India becoming a lesser attractive travel source market, many global companies will also lose interest in promoting international travel to India which was 16.5 million+ in 2018-10 ( foreign tourist arrivals 10.5 + visiting friends and relatives 6 m +) and the resultant foreign exchange which is $ 28 bn + There will be an additional impact. A large proposition of workforce is employed by destination representation companies through international tourism boards who will also seek to close offices as travel from India will become more expensive.

This major loss of business will make financially unviable many travel agent businesses from India and will lead to mass scale www.tourismindia.org

job losses of Indian employees.

There are an estimated 60000 + travel agencies with an estimated 20 lakh employees impacting them and will put in deep financial stress their 80 lakh plus family members. Needless to say, this shifting of revenue to companies outside of India will impact in the resultant losses of income tax and GST revenue for the government.

FAITH Associations said that Miscommunication & Reconciliation issues over TCS collected will also lead to heavy additional cost of compliance for small companies ( which are almost 95% in this sector) and will open up the potential for litigation for multiple small value transactions on reconciliations between consumers and travel companies which will threaten the credibility of the travel fraternity and also the tax administration. The travel agents & tour operators are grappling already with their credibility and business at risk with the issue of non cash refunds from airlines due to covid lockdowns and cancellations.

FAITH said it is possible that the proposed TCS collection over the year may lead to an advance tax of an insignif27 icant amount, which, will not move the needle even slightly in the cash flows of the tax revenues of the government.

But for the numerous 60000 travel companies and their 20 lakh esti-

mated employees across India, it will lead to loss of business, cost of compliance, litigations & environment of distrust and will sound the death knell of many Indian micro, small & medium travel & tour companies which are reeling under the threat of globally funded e commerce players.

Faith said that the Indian tourism industry is fully aligned to the nation’s need of enhancing tax compliance. Ensuring tax compliance on travel is already being effectively be done through pan cards/ Aadhaar cards/ passport detail records of the travel bookers.

FAITH has thus request that the TCS on outbound travel as proposed in the Finance Bill 2020 U/S 206C & abolish its proposed implementation completely as it is highly regressive and anti- competitive tax on Indian travel industry Mr. Nakul Anand Chairman, FAITH

SEPTEMBER 2020 TOURISM INDIA

27

NEWS / ASSOCIATIONS

KERALA TOURISM SECTOR SHOULD BE OPENED IMMEDIATELY - CKTI Tourism is the highest income-earning sector with more than 45000 Crores and contributing 12% to the state GDP in 2019

T

he Confederation of Kerala Tourism Industry (CKTI) has called on the government to take immediate steps to reopen the tourism sector in the state, which has been com-

Mr. E.M. Najeeb President, CKTI 28

SEPTEMBER 2020 TOURISM INDIA

pletely closed for the past six months due to the nationwide lockdown and global travel restrictions of COVID 19, back to the path of survival and recovery.

The tourism sector, which has been in crisis since travel restrictions were imposed globally in last February, has been completely shut down with the lockdown imposed in India by March 24. More than 15 lakh people directly and 20 lakh people indirectly working in the tourism sector of the state and being the highest-earning industrial service sector in the state. Tourism is the highest income-earning sector with more than 45000 Crores and contributing around 12% to the state GDP in 2019. Excluding expatriate investment, it is one of the most lucrative foreign exchange earning sectors in the country and more than 20000 local investors and entrepreneurs are working in this sector with the support of bank loans and other financial institutions support.

Central and State Governments should be prepared to take wartime measures to rescue the sector from the more damaging situation and intervene to restart the regular business with adequate safety and health control mea-

Mr. Sajeev Kurup, General Secretary, CKTI

sure for the return of the tourism sector and lives of lakhs of people is, directly and indirectly, working travel, tourism and hospitality sector.

At a time when the tourism industry is on the verge of literally collapsing as one of the state’s highest income earning industrial sectors and excluding NRI investment, the country is literally on the verge of collapse. CKT I President Mr. E. M. Najeeb requested.

Based on unlock 4 declared by the central government recently, Our neighboring states Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Goa, and Maharashtra, etc., have opened the Tourism sector with and without COVID protocols, he also added.

Mr. Najeeb pointed out that, the positive response from Kerala government with financial packages and reopening of bars to support and restart tourism businesses are a welcome sign and we are confident that a strong comeback of tourism in the state

by December end. Our CM on his last day press briefing, reiterated the need to “Live with Covid”, as people all over the world start following safety precautions and protocols.

Unlike other states in India, the Government of Kerala’s Chief Minister’s Tourism Consolation Fund, a financial package of Rs 455 crore, has done a great deal to retain entrepreneurs and workers working in the sector, said Mr. Sajeev Kurup, General Secretary of CKTI. But there are more than 4000 hotels, resorts, more than 1000 houseboats, more than 100 Ayurvedic centers, more than 1000 tour operators, and homes closed in the tourist destinations of the state.

However, there are more than www.tourismindia.org

4,000 closed hotels, resorts, 1,000 plus each houseboat, Ayurvedic centers, tour operators and homestay owners, apart from water theme parks, taxi drivers, tourists guides, and units in the adventure tourism sector are in dire financial constraints, due to the continuous lockdown of the tourist attractions in the state. The office-bearers of CKTI say the past few months have been a period of great uncertainty in the sector due to fixed costs such as maintenance, salary, electricity, and water charges along with various tax liabilities and bank loan exposures.

At the national level, several states, including Rajasthan, Goa, and Karnataka, have been open to the tourism industry since September 1, with no quarantine conditions or travel bans, in compliance with COVID 19 control and defence regulations. But the existing 14-day compulsory quarantine in Kerala, a requirement for travellers arriving in the state is a major setback in the region.

Currently, the state government has given permission to open hotels in the state from June 9, subject to the COVID 19 Prevention Control Rules, but it will only benefit visitors who come for 7-day business purposes.

Due to 29 this, very few hotels in major cities are open in Kerala now, however, most of the hotels, resorts, and houseboats in Kerala are run exclusively for leisure tourists.

The unfortunate situation is that none of these can work because of the current restrictions. If this situation continues, the tourism industry, which earned about Rs 45,000 crore for the state exchequer last year, will have to close

down permanently said CKTI President Mr. E.M. Najeeb and General Secretary Mr. Sajeev Kurup in a press statement.

CKTI has already submitted a memorandum to Mr. Pinarayi Vijayan, Chief Minister and Mr. Kadakampally Surendran, Minister for Tourism, Government of Kerala to open the tourism sector without further delay. According to the proposals, Hospitality, Ayurveda and Wellness sector in Kerala are ready to adhere to state government protocols and directions including regular COVID-19 testing and confirming a negative result before clients utilize the facilities and to start business slowly. We propose to follow Travellers and Clients to arrive with an RT- PCR test recent (48 hours) or following dual testing Rapid Antigen and RT- PCR test so as to obviate the need for 14 day quarantine. Without government directives in favour as above, we cannot start taking clients/ guests. It should be a policy decision by government by involving health and tourism departments in issuing directives to open the tourism sector by adhering to SOP’s.

CKTI with the support of its 35 industry association members has collected the feedback of the industry and the survey findings are alarming and pointed to a death knell of the sector. Najeeb added that if the crisis continues, the vast majority of enterprises in the region will face serious repercussions in the near future.

The urgent intervention of the state government was needed because of the finding which has collated from the across tourism segment is a sure sign of the future of the sector in the state.

SEPTEMBER 2020 TOURISM INDIA

29

NEWS / ASSOCIATIONS

KARNATAKA TOURISM INDUSTRY SEEKS GOVERNMENT SUPPORT Tourism contributes 14.8% towards the State’s GDP and supports over 16 million jobs in Karnataka

30

SEPTEMBER 2020 TOURISM INDIA

K

arnataka Tourism Society established with all major stakeholder travel-trade associations and with the active support of the Govt. of Karnataka is now ready to invite membership from travel, tourism and hospitality stakeholders.

At the present state of the industry amid the pandemic and distress, the association seeks support to revive the industry to create value to its stakeholders. Society is aimed to promote tourism in the State of Karnataka and to promote the interests of all persons engaged in activities connected with tourism.

“Tourism contributes 14.8% towards the State’s GDP and supports over 16 million jobs. Karnataka has immense potential to become a world-class destination and we in Karnataka are supporting the efforts of the tourism departments to globally market the State”.

Speaking on the occasion of the launch of the Membership drive, Mr. T.K. Anil Kumar, Secretary – Tourism, Govt. of Karnataka said “Karnataka is home to a large and exciting portfolio of globally acclaimed tourism products with UNESCO World Heritage Sites, splendid wildlife and resplendent nature, virgin beaches to adorn. ‘Karnataka Tourism Society’, will enhance the marketing efforts of Karnataka Tourism in inbound travel and tourism and promote our destinations to major markets within India and from abroad.”

Mr. K Shyamaraju, President, Karnataka Tourism Society said “The Karnataka Tourism Society www.tourismindia.org

Karnataka Tourism Society is aimed to promote tourism in the State of Karnataka and to promote the interests of all persons engaged in activities connected with tourism. promises to be a unique opportunity for us to explore business opportunities for the tourism industry in Karnataka. ‘Karnataka International Travel Expo’ helped create a networking eco-system to focus on developing business opportunities with the travel trade from India

and abroad. The stakeholders of 31 Karnataka have accorded tremendous support to the event facilitating the familiarisation tours across Karnataka”.

He also added, “The Society has been in the forefront as the voice of the industry and several of its recommendations and suggestions have been accepted by the Government of Karnataka, especially during this pandemic”.

Major National and State level Travel, Tourism, and hospitality associations including the Federation of Hotel and Restaurant Association of India(FHRAI), Association of Domestic Tour Operators Association of India (ADTOI), Adventure Tour Operators Association of India (ATOAI), India Association of Tour Operators (IATO), Travel Agents Association of India (TAAI), BCIC, FKCCI, Karnataka Tourism Forum(KTF), Enterprising Agents Association of India (ETAA), SKAL, South India Hotel and Restaurant Association (SIHRA), Travel Agent Federation of India (TAFI), Karnataka Pradesh Hotel & Restaurant Association (KPHRA), etc are part of the founding members of the Society.

The ‘Karnataka Tourism Society’ with Karnataka Tourism organized the inaugural edition of the ‘Karnataka International Travel Expo’ in 2019( KITE 2019). The three-day event facilitated over 10,000 prematched appointments to bring together International and Indian Buyers and sellers showcasing the best of Karnataka. The chief goal of the expo was to increase the overall size of the tourism sector in Karnataka. The event gathered national and international tourism professionals looking to find new ways to further Karnataka as an ideal destination and get firsthand exposure to various tourism products of Karnataka.

The State offers an avid traveller a vast range of tourism landscapes including heritage, archaeology, religion, wildlife and adventure, ecotourism, and handicrafts.

SEPTEMBER 2020 TOURISM INDIA

31

NEWS / AIRLINES

INDIGO OPERATES 50,000 FLIGHTS SINCE LOCKDOWN IndiGo, India’s largest Airline, achieves its next milestone and marked the completion of 50,000 flights since lockdown till September 12, 2020.

32

SEPTEMBER SEPTEMBER 2020 2020 Tourism TOURISM India INDIA

T

he tally includes scheduled commercial operations, passenger charters, CarGo charters, Air Bubble flights, and repatriation flights under the Vande

Bharat programme.

All these fights were operated while adhering to all the precautionary measures. During this period, the airline has operated 47865 domestic flights across India and 1799 international flights to destinations spanning across Middle East, Central Asia, South-East Asia and South Asia region. IndiGo touched this milestone with the operation of 6E 494 from Delhi to Patna on September 12, 2020.

Mr. Ronojoy Dutta, Chief Executive Officer, IndiGo said, “From our first relief flight to Jodhpur and our first passenger charter flight to Maldives, we are proud to be an integral part in supporting India’s growth for its economy and its employment via our operations. We are pleased to see an uptick in travel demand, with IndiGo reaching a milestone of 50,000 flights since lockdown till today.

We have experienced gradual in-

crease in demand and confidence, in air travel, evidenced by steadily rising indicators like PLF, unit revenue and future bookings. Going by the current trend, we are hopeful of achieving 60% of our pre-covid operational capacity by Diwali. We will continue to adapt our business to the needs of the hour”.

Being the leading CarGo operator in domestic market, IndiGo also operated 1700 CarGo flights over the last 5 months and transporting over 14300 MT of CarGo between April to September 2020, clocking in the highest net monthly revenue in August 2020 from CarGo operations despite an operational capacity of only 32 per cent. Additionally, IndiGo operations enabled the repatriation of 1,50,000 citizens to and from India, who were stranded due to the pandemic, till August 2020.

IndiGo commences flights between Male and Kochi under Air Bubble In-line with its vision to strengthen international connectivity from India, IndiGo commenced two weekly flights between India and Maldives under air bubble from September 3, 2020. The first such arrangement in South-Asia was recently decided after the agreement between officials from both the governments. IndiGo will operate flights on Kochi-Male-Kochi route twice a week, while adhering to all the precautionary measures, ensuring a safe and hassle-free travel experience on-board a lean clean flying machine.

Mr. William Boulter, Chief Commercial Officer, IndiGo said, “We are pleased to resume connections between India and Maldives, www.tourismindia.org

starting with two weekly flights between Male and Kochi under Air Bubble. Male will be connected to various domestic destinations in India from Kochi, while providing safe and hassle-free flying experience on board a lean, clean flying machine. India is one 33 of the key markets for inbound tourism for Maldives, while it receives a huge share of its medical tourists from Maldives. These flights will promote trade tourism and mobility, giving a boost to economic recovery in both the countries”.

This step comes in accordance with the safe corridor provided by the local authorities where the tourists can travel straight to their respective resorts from the airport

without any hassle, in absence of quarantine restrictions. Maldives opened its International border for tourists on July 15, since the inhabited islands and resort islands of the Maldives have been largely unaffected by the current pandemic. Additionally, this arrangement would also facilitate and regularize the flow of Maldivians seeking medical treatment to India as well as a sizeable number of Indians working as nurses, teachers, and resort workers in the Maldives.

For bookings from Maldives to India, customers can get in touch with their respective travel agents or IndiGo’s local office at sales1. aviation@hemasaviation.com or +960 7918627 or +960 728948 September Tourism India SEPTEMBER 20202020 TOURISM INDIA

33

NEWS / APPOINTMENT

SAROVAR HOTELS PROMOTES SHATABDI DUTTA AS THE GMMARKETING

S

arovar Hotels and Resorts has announced the promotion of Shatabdi Dutta as the New General Manager – Marketing. The elevation is in line with the company’s efforts to strengthen its marketing department and bring urgently needed edge for the brand.

In her new role, Ms. Dutta will be responsible for Databases –Quality, Quantity, and Targeting; Digital thrustSearch Engine Optimisation, Campaigns, Lead generation, viral content reach, Social Media traction, brand website productivity; marketing alliances, and Guest recognition.

Shatabdi’s ongoing journey since 2013 within the organisation is illustrative of a team member who has continued to display positivity, ability to learn, and passion as exemplified in her work for communicating the values of brand Sarovar. She had actively coordinated in Sarovar’s major Marketing Campaign – “Happiness @ Sarovar”. She was awarded the coveted “Marketing Person of the Year” Award for her knowledge in increasing Sarovar’s brand visibility.

34 SEPTEMBER 2020 Tourism India 34

SEPTEMBER 2020 TOURISM INDIA

MS. JYOTI MAYAL, ELECTED AS CHAIRPERSON OF TOURISM & HOSPITALITY SKILL COUNCIL

M

s.

Jyoti Mayal, President, Travel Agents Assosciation of India (TAAI) has been elected as Chairperson of Tourism & Hospitality Skill Council (THSC) She represents TAAI on the governing body of Tourism and Hospitality Skill Council (THSC) which is a Not – for – Profit Organization registered under Societies Act with an independent Governing Council, represented by senior members from Tourism & Hospitality Sector. Funded by the National Skills Development Corporation (NSDC) with the support funding from the industry members under www.tourismindia.org

the guidance of Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) and promoted by NSDC and CII (Confederation of Indian Industries).

THSC caters to all the sub sectors of the Industry, namely, Hotels, Travel Operators, Food Service Restaurants, Facilities Management and Cruise 35 Liners.

Ms. Jyoti is an experienced travel professional with more than three decades of excellent domain knowledge and practical experience in Travel, Tourism, Aviation and Hospitality segment. She has proven her leadershhip quality in many occassion in the past.

SEPTEMBER 2020 TOURISM INDIA 35 SEPTEMBER 2020 Tourism India 35

NEWS / HOSPITALITY

SHERATON GRAND CHENNAI RESORT & SPA REOPENS

Sheraton Grand Chennai Resort & Spa is beautifully located overlooking the Bay of Bengal and the resort recapitulates luxury with its 125 rooms including suites that offer mesmerizing view

S

heraton Grand Chennai Resort & Spa is ecstatic to welcome their patrons back to the property. Situated in the outskirts of the city, Sheraton Grand Chennai Resort & Spa offers clinical levels of hygiene and sanitation measurements aligning with the government guidelines set by WHO and the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India.

The resort has further realigned its operations along with the lines of social distancing and contactless services in line with its Commitment to Clean. The safety measurements have been installed to alleviate the risk of infection and the protocols for the ‘new normal’ include thermal screening, safe distancing, sanitizer at all touchpoint, wearing of personal protective gear along with smart visual cues for the guest’s journey to remind them of our preparedness in handling the current situation.

For seamless procedures, the hotel has focused largely on the digital arena for profound contactless service, right from online reservations to online payment methods. Other resort related activities have been digitalized to empower this new normal. You can now check-in and check out from your room by scanning the QR codes, the welcoming In-Room Dining menu is digitized 36

SEPTEMBER 2020 TOURISM INDIA

along with menus of all food and beverage outlets. The layouts at every restaurant have been redesigned to ensure adequate distancing; Awareness drives and thorough training are being conducted regularly amongst the hotel associates for maintaining the regulated standards. With a hygiene manager in place, the resort has leveraged the expertise of its hygiene partners to train all team members working at the resort. The frequency of cleaning has been increased and critical touchpoints identified for enhanced cleaning measures, and the same is being monitored routinely. Disinfection of all areas is being done

with enhanced cleaning chemicals to ensure the desired level of hygiene is maintained.

Speaking on this, General Manager, Shiv Bose said, “With the fear of the pandemic Covid-19, we understand and respect the concerns of our patrons. For the well being of our guests, we would like to reassure them that the hotel has taken all the necessary precautions and measurements for their utmost safety and have trained every team member at the resort. Marriott’s Commitment to Cleanprocesses redefines our cleaning and safety standards. We will actively monitor and evolve our solutions to ensure

a continued focus on the health and safety of our guests and team members.�

The property is also open to staycations for families that will give them nothing short of an endless experience with exclusive offers to rejuvenate themselves. Dine-in at your chosen venue and indulge in some scrumptious delicacies that are prepared by our culinary team with utmost care and safety.

Sheraton Grand Chennai Resort & Spa is beautifully located overlooking the Bay of Bengal. The resort recapitulates luxury with its 125 rooms including suites that offer mesmerizing views. Spread across 10 acres of land, includes 4 meeting rooms and 4 restaurants, where you can experience world-class as well as local cuisines. The Reef is an all-day dining restaurant, Pelican Deck an alfresco restaurant, Pintail Lounge an opulent lounge bar, and C Salt is a specialty outlet serving coastal food. The resort’s exceptional setting, 5-star bespoke services, and expert planners make this property a premier choice for weddings on the beach, social gatherings, and business retreats.

General Manager, Shiv Bose

Mr. Shiv Bose, General Manager

37

www.tourismindia.org

SEPTEMBER 2020 TOURISM INDIA

37

NEWS/ HOSPITALITY

S SAYAJI HOTELS REOPENS WITH CARE BEYOND COMPARE

ayaji Hotels reopens its Indore, Pune, Vadodara, Kolhapur, and Raipur properties to welcome back its guests into a safe and hygienic environment. The Covid-19 Pandemic has raised exceptional demands on the cleanliness and hygiene standards of the industry. And it can only be attained with the implementation of stringent protocols for the current circumstances.

To access the on-ground situation and the effectiveness of the measures implemented at Sayaji Hotels a two-day cleanliness inspection was personally conducted by Mr. Rakshit Sharma, Head-HR, and Mr. Dinesh Dahiya, VP Sales, Sayaji Hotels Ltd. The Hotel Group has also put in place the “CARE BEYOND COMPARE” initiative, designed to meet the health and safety challenges presented

by COVID-19. Through this program, the patrons will be informed and updated about the change in services designs

38

SEPTEMBER 2020 TOURISM INDIA

The “CARE BEYOND COMPARE” initiative, designed to meet the health and safety challenges presented by COVID-19 & standards of operations that will be congruent to the norms of social distancing, safety & hygiene of the staff, and cleanliness of the hotel.

Mr. Dinesh Dahiya, VP Sales, Sayaji Hotels Ltd, said “Humankind couldn’t have been the dominating species if we would not have braved the wilderness, embraced the uncertainties and travelled the world in search of a brighter future. The same human instincts have driven the Sayaji leadership team to travel by Road, cover

1500 km and visit all our hotels to connect once again with our team; strategize the plan for reopening of hotels, implement a viable business plan keeping Guest and Team safety first.”

“We are duty-bound to reach out to our team members on the shop floor especially during these troubled times to instill their belief in our philosophy of Survive, Revive and Thrive, to counter these unprecedented adversities.” Mr. Rakshit Sharma, Head-HR, Sayaji Hotels further added. Welcoming the guests

to a new era of travel with the ‘new normal’ stay experience; the Sayaji Hotel will give utmost priority to the health and safety of its guests and staff. These hotels are a perfect place to set up a workstation for business travelers and a delight for leisure travellers. It provides a range of facilities to its guests, to ensure their safety and comfort in the duration of the stay.

The Hotel Group since its inception has always emphasised on health and safety. In the ‘New Normal’ the group has taken a step further by forming an inhouse cleanliness council. This council will be responsible for carrying out a personal inspection of the hotel operations, food, water safety, and hygiene & infection prevention for ensuring that the cleanliness standards are maintained from check-in to check out.

Mr. Rakshit Sharma, Head-HR

Mr. Dinesh Dahiya, VP - Sales

39

www.tourismindia.org

SEPTEMBER 2020 TOURISM INDIA

39

NEWS / HOSPITALITY

BON APPETIT WITH PRIDE CATERING

T

he Pride Hotels launches an all-new catering service experience at its, New Delhi, Kolkata, Chennai, Ahmedabad, Pune, Nagpur, Chennai, and Bangalore properties. The hotel group opens its services for doorstep deliveries redefining the dining experience in the New Normal. The initiative enables the customers to enjoy food delicacies with ‘contactless’ delivery and unique food offering to satiate their cravings.

The catering menu is curated by the team of expert chefs and culinarians featuring an interesting amalgamation of Indian food concepts and local ingredients together.

These are small bites and memorable flavours. Be it authentic Home Style Mixed Vegetable, Dal Makhani, and Paneer Achari from the Vegetarian menu; Murgh Dum Biryani, Lamb Rogan Josh, and Rara Ghost Punjabi from the Non-Vegetarian menu and Pasta, Sandwich & Burger from the Asian menu, one can savour it all at their home.

This initiative was taken by the Pride Hotels to make sure that its loyal patrons don’t miss out on their favourite cuisine due to COVID. To amplify the concept of ‘Luxury-in-Privacy’ the hotel group is now offering exclusive catering services for personal meets at home. Pride Group will help in making the celebrations successful with delightful culinary creations and flawless ser40

SEPTEMBER 2020 TOURISM INDIA

The menu is curated by the team of expert chefs and culinarians featuring an interesting amalgamation of Indian food concepts and local ingredients together

vice. Pride Hotels have partnered with online food delivery aggregator platforms to deliver its food delicacies at customers’ doorsteps.

“We are constantly working towards re-modeling our services for guest satisfaction whether it’s at our premises or at our guests’ chosen venue. This contactless order, payment, and delivery option will help us in delivering a responsible guest experience. Through this initiative our guests will be able to experience and indulge in their favourite cuisine from the popular restaurants of Pride Group of Hotels present at their cities.” says, Mr. Atul Upadhyay, Vice President Operations, Pride Hotels Ltd. As a part of the ‘New Normal’ and keeping the present circumstances in mind, the Pride Hotel has launched the ‘Pride Safety Assurance’. It’s a commitment from the Group of taking care of its guests at every step of its service. Under the ‘Pride Safety www.tourismindia.org

Assurance’ initiative, the Pride hotel has rolled out enhanced technological measures like contactless checkin & check-out services, contactless billing facility, a touchless dispensing center for the sanitizers, and a

mobile-friendly dining menu. The initiative is designed to tackle the realities of the COVID-19 pandemic at the hotel level and further advance the company’s efforts in this area.

41

SEPTEMBER 2020 TOURISM INDIA

41

42

SEPTEMBER 2020 TOURISM INDIA

TRAVELOGUE

ROUTES INTO THE ROOTS AN EMPIRICAL PERSPECTIVE A

plethora of historical remnants embellishes the cultural fabric of south Indian state Karnataka to satiate the palettes of itinerants who love art and culture. Chronologically, they span over the various bygone dynasties ranges from the 5th century Chalukyas, Kakatheeyas, Kathambas, Hoysalas, Vijayanagara, Hyder Ali & Tipu Sultan to the 20th-century Wodeyars.

Among the popular and easily accessible tourist circuits, the legacy of the Hoysala dynasty shares a major role, with its proximity of stunning monuments at conveniently spotted distances.

They are at an average of one to four hours’ drive on the western belt of Karnataka mainly around the city of Hassan. The Hoysalas ruled the regions from 10-13 AD, contributing around 80 temples of Vesara style of Temple Architecture, sustaining a dozen of active and inactive temples for the posterity. Among them the main www.tourismindia.org

existing marvels of architecture are Channakeshava Temple at Belur, Hoysaleshwara Temple at Halebidu, Lakshmi Devi Temple at Doddagaddavalli, Keshava Temple at Somanathpur and the Panchalingeshwara Temple at Mandya belong to the Early Medieval Architecture, attributed to the artistic charm and glory of the Hoysala Dynasty.

The aforesaid first three temples are situated in the forty square kilometer radius of the city of Hassan, 125 km north of Mysore City and the Somanatha43 pur Keshava temple is situated in the East of Mysore. Behind the Hoysaleshwara Temple in Halebidu, which is 18 kilometers away from Belur, is a complex of Jain Basatis. Halebidu temples are mostly affected by the invasions, beheading many sculptures and the frescos in and around the edifices. Centuries later by 1906 the Wodeyar Dynasty has started the restoration of all the active and inactive Hoysala temples. Since

1952, the Archaeological Survey of India has started to renovate them scientifically and to the date, it is protected and well maintained luring many more eyeballs. “Each Hoysala temple is an Ocean of Art with an abundance of One Thousand to Ten thousand carvings”, says Belur Sashi Kumar, a Freelance Italian Speaking Professional Tour Guide belong to the proud brigade of Southern Regional Level Professional Guides who were carefully selected, skillfully trained and professionally approved by the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India. Mr. Dinesh Kumar of Mysore, a French Speaking Professional Guide is an expert in Temple Architecture and in handling the Travel Journalists was also found to have immersed in his detailed lectures on the Hoysaleshwara temple in Halebidu.

He was travelling with a group of French journalists to trail the Hoysala Routes, the unexplored beauty of South India.

SEPTEMBER 2020 TOURISM INDIA

43

TRAVELOGUE

THE HOYSALA GROUP OF TEMPLES ARE KNOWN FOR A PERFECT AMALGAMATION OF AESTHETIC AND ARCHITECTURAL EXCELLENCE OF CRAFTSMANSHIP

44

SEPTEMBER 2020 TOURISM INDIA

45

www.tourismindia.org

. THE BIG THREE HOYSALA TEMPLES, ESPECIALLY AT BELUR, HALEBIDU, AND SOMANATHPUR ARE ERECTED ON THE STAR-SHAPED PLATFORMS WHICH IS THE MAIN FEATURE OF VESARA TEMPLE ARCHITECTURE SEPTEMBER 2020 TOURISM INDIA

45

TRAVELOGUE The Hoysala group of temples are known for a perfect amalgamation of aesthetic and architectural excellence of craftsmanship.

The Big three Hoysala temples, especially at Belur, Halebidu, and Somanathpur are erected on the star-shaped platforms which is the main feature of Vesara Temple Architecture. Unlike other major temples in South India, the peculiarity of Hoysalas was they have used soapstone (Blue Chlorotic Stone) as the medium of art and as a prime construction material, transported from Tumkur district, which is hundreds of kilometers away. The structures have adopted the interlocking system of construction with thousands of blocks of Soapstone pieces- each, one to two meters long, one to the five-foot thickness and without any sort of compounds such as cement, sand, limestone, or shell powder.

46

SEPTEMBER 2020 TOURISM INDIA

A casual glimpse of the temples gives us an impression if the whole structure is made out of pale-hued wax. So is the clarity of details and perfection of sculptures. The frescos vary from male, female figures, to animals, birds, and even the flora and fauna. Apart from the scenes of day to day life, mythological stories and incidents are carved out of this special Soapstone.

The uniqueness of the structure lies in some truly remarkable innovations carried out by the planners and architects of the bygone years. Among the various Hoysala temples, a successful experimental approach in construction can be observed according to the Area covered and to the Size of temples. Temples like Belur Channakeshava Temple is Eka-kooda (Eka means single kooda is shrine). Hoysaleshwara Temple in Halebidu has two main shrines – Dwi-kooda

(double shrined), Keshava Temple in Somanathpura is a Tri-kooda (triple shrine), Lakshmi Devi temple at Doddageddavalli is a Chathush-kooda (four-shrined) and the Panchalingeshwara Temple at Mandya is a Pancha-kooda Temple with five shrines.

The Channakeshava Temple at Belur is the workmanship of three generations, a continuous work of 103 years. This Eka-kooda (single shrined) Temple is dedicated to Channakeshava, Lord Vishnu, has 42 different Soapstone figures of various postures all around the temple, erected on elevated outside portions, just below the roof.

Three among them are male figures and other stylized feminine figures are of Vishakanyka, a spy girl – whose references are seen in the Arthasashtra of Chanakya, Keshasringara, another female figure depicts a hair caring damsel. A Huntress figure is rich in details that could tell a story of

hunting, with her companions busy in helping each other pulling out the torn from the feet and the bow and arrow with their hunt. A walk around the temple through its elevated star-shaped platform (Jagati) that has thirty-two petals or corners, is a treasure of medieval art and engineering skills with the carved historical and mythological incidents.

A noted panel called Gajasura Mardhini embellishes more than hundreds of small and big sculptures inside the stretched body of an Elephant figure. The southern and northern side of the lower portion of the building’s outer walls is richly adorned with different layers and lines of same-sized but differently posed figures. Every layer contains more than 600 pieces in number, each of elephants, peacocks, flowers, horses, Yalis, etc. Apart from the flat roof, star-shaped elevated platform, and the other Vesara features, the entrance tower called Gopura of the Belur temple is in Dravidian style, a post-Hoysala construction by the Vijayanagara Dynasty of Hampi.

An extensive 190 years-long construction span around four www.tourismindia.org

generations, has realized the Hoysaleshwara Temple in Halebidu, 18 kilometers east of Belur.

The word Halebidu in the local tongue means “destroyed city”.

The invasions of Malik Kafur during the reign of Alauddin Khilji of Delhi Sultanate has ruined the old city of “Dwara Samudra”, which is later beginning to be known as Halebidu.

In Halebidu one can discern a much larger procurement, even more detailed, rich in artistic and engineering, is yet another architectural spectacle in the form of a Temple. Here again, the star shaped elevated platform houses a Dwi-kooda dedicated to Lord Shiva, where the same Vesara style of temple architecture is seen followed 47 like in any other Hoysala Temples, by Blue Chlorotic soapstone. The Hoysaleshwara Temple is known for its multiple story panels to depict the Indian epics of Ramayana and Mahabharata that adorn the outside portion of the building. There are two separate Shrines with Shivalingas installed under the same roof of the whole structure.

The temple has 42 Mandapa (pillared hall) portions with its 108

chiseled pillars and 22 exquisitely carved ceilings. The main northern entrance leads to the platform and can take a walk towards the eastern side with amusing glimpses of the intricate carvings. The top to bottom layers of splendid lines of carvings not only those of the elephants and Yalis seen in the Belur temple but also of a series of erotic sculptures. The war scenes, chariots, sages, dancing postures definitely invite the attention of any visitor. The eastern entrance has two separate Nandi Mandapas facing the two sanctums each with the fifth and the sixth-largest monolithic Nandi figures in the world.

The sixth Nandi figure is the most beautifully carved and polished figure of its kind.

“Royal Entrance” of the southern side is meant for royal family members to enter the temple after praying the huge single stone idol of Lord Ganesha. The western portion has eight Patikas and 864 wall sculptures. One can see different sculpture panels depicting epic stories where each panel is each piece of large stone infused into the wall of the temple structure. Here we can find SEPTEMBER 2020 TOURISM INDIA

47

TRAVELOGUE the panels of Gajasura Mardhini, Padmavyooha, Ravana Lifting Himalayas, and each of them are elaborated with many small and medium sized figures.

Just some meters behind the Halebidu Hoysaleshwara temple, a Jain Basati complex (Jain Temples), can also be spotted. They are dedicated to two Jain mystique, Parshwanatha, and Adinatha, and are protected monuments of the Archaeological Survey of India. Though structurally they do not completely belong to the Vesara Style of architecture, they have used the same Blue Chlorotic Soap Stone and chiselled tall pillars and ceilings usually seen in any Hoysala Temples. The 5.5-meter-tall statue of Parshwanatha in the shaded Sanctum is an attraction. The main hall houses the idol of Padmavati under the three-hood Cobra along with all the 24 Theerthangara (saints) idols of Jainism.

Another Basathi in the complex features, yet another 5.5 meters tall statue of Shanthinatha, and the third one house the figure of Adinatha, on a Lotus pose of

48

SEPTEMBER 2020 TOURISM INDIA

meditation.

With a deviation towards the south from the highway on the Belur-Hassan route, a wellknown but less-visited Lakshmi Temple is situated amidst the beautiful village settings. The Lakshmi Devi Temple at Doddagaddavalli Village is 17 km away from Hassan city and is an active temple belong to the Hoysala school of temples. Unlike the typical Hoysala Temples, the sculptured embellishments or carving panels are less or missing in this structure. The temple structure deviates from its usual star-formed platform, instead looks like a Lotus formed edifice having four shrines without a walking platform. All the four shrines have a single squareshaped hall called Mahamandapa for the easy visibility of all the shrines. But it is adorned with many sculptures, especially on the elevated Nagara style roof. An installation of Goddess Lakshmi Devi’s image can be seen in the main sanctum.

A total contrast to the divine names given to the Indian cities

Somanathpura-the city of Somanath, 40-kilo meters east of Mysore, is named after a royal officer of high repute. The three shrined Keshava Temple is the landmark of Somanathpura. Built on the star-shaped platform in the Vesara style, boasts their largely decorated towering roofs to the Nagara style as well. The three shines under the same edifice and the same roof contains three forms of Lord Krishna with the common Mandapa, where Keshava is the main deity and Venugopal and Janardhana in the other two.

Another interesting fact to read with that is Somanathpura Keshava Temple is started to build in 1268 AD finished with just 40 years. It is believed to have been using the service of 500 people and artists on a daily basis with the vast experience gained from the construction of other Hoysala temples. The edifice has 16 ceilings and the Lotus Bud and Banana Bud shaped ceilings catch the eyes of the art enthusiasts. The inside portion was once painted with natural dye

which is gone pale in the course of time of which the remnants are still seen as a treasure kept in the darkness. Take a walk around the star-shaped platform to be astonished by the six layers of repeated figures lined multiple hundreds but in different forms.

The bottom line of Elephant figures symbolise stability, the next lines of horses show the speed, the next has rich embroidery, then the Ramayana stories in small figures depicted form as the next line. The fifth line has the Vishnu in different forms and the uppermost line figures the Hoysala Emblem in multiple numbers. The complex has a long square Mandapa to cover the temple premises with 64 various shrines with 64 separate idols kept.

With the aesthetic look and structural features attributed to a typical Hoysala school of Temples, the Panchalingeshwara Temple marks the Hoysala presence in the Mandya District, the neighboring city of Mysore. It was constructed in 1238 AD dedicated to Lord Shiva. As the name suggests it is a “panchakooda� or five-shrine temple with five

Shivalingas inside the five separate shrines with a long common prayer hall Mandapa (pillared hall). A Twin-porched entrance with the ceilings built on top of the carved pillars as a typical feature of any Hoysala temple and the wall panels with the miniature sculptures verbalize the mythological stories. But a clear departure from a typical Hoysala temple here is the absence of a star-shaped platform and the presence of Nagara type towers above the Shrines.

The Golden Triangle of Agra-Delhi-Jaipur is still a golden route of the Indian Tourism in the Global Tourism Market. Unfortunately, to a vast majority of western tourists, Indian tourism means Golden Triangle and India means Taj Mahal due to the North Indian Tour Operator Lobby’s unknown deeds and prejudiced presentation. New routes have to have emerged and they have awe generation of people with their architectural and artistic brilliance. Of course, the Hoysala architectonic beauty is recognised in the tourism industry and is well explored by a good share of tourists visit South India.

But these immaculate beauties have to be re-discovered to its deserving value. The Routes into the Roots of Hoysala Legacy add charm and a re-birth to the South Indian, especially to the Karnataka Tourism.

49

www.tourismindia.org

SEPTEMBER 2020 TOURISM INDIA

49

NEWS / HOSPITALITY

IHCL ANNOUNCES A SELEQTIONS HOTEL IN TADOBA ANDHARI TIGER RESERVE A Greenfield project to open in 2022.

50

SEPTEMBER 2020 TOURISM INDIA

I

ndian Hotels Company (IHCL), South Asia’s largest hospitality company has announced the signing of a SeleQtions hotel in Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve, Maharashtra. This hotel is in partnership with Thriving Hotels Private Limited.

Commenting on the signing, Suma Venkatesh, Executive Vice President – Real Estate & Development, IHCL, said, “IHCL enters a new leisure destination with this hotel. Tadoba National Park is the oldest and the largest tiger reserve in Maharashtra. In addition to catering to customers seeking a wilderness experience, the scale of the hotel and its proximity to Nagpur airport will help to attract meetings and conferences. This hotel will complement the existing safari circuit within our portfolio. We are delighted to partner with

The 35-room hotel spread over 17 acres is strategically located at the outskirts of the Tadoba Andhari Tiger, in close proximity of three of the most accessible and popular gates to the National Park www.tourismindia.org

Thriving Hotels in this project.”

The 35-room hotel spread over 17 acres is strategically located at the outskirts of the Tadoba Andhari Tiger, in close proximity of three of the most accessible and popular gates to the National Park. With a distinctive design, the hotel will have all the facilities required to give guests a unique safari experience. This is a Greenfield project and is slated to open in 2022.

Commenting on the partnership, Mr. Varun Jain, CEO, Thriving Hotels Private Limited, said, “We are delighted to partner with IHCL to bring the SeleQtions brand to Tadoba, one of India’s most popular tiger reserves. We look forward to bringing SeleQtion’s characteristic charm and immersive experiences to our guests.”

With over 40 tigers at the National Park, one of the highest in India, the expansive Tadoba National Park is one of India’s 47 tiger reserve projects in the country. The National Park sees an influx of thousands of both, national and51international tourists during the safari months of October to June, as they flock to see not only the majestic tigers but also a wide range of wildlife, birds, and flora and fauna. The closest international airport is at Nagpur, which is at a comfortable driving distance.

SEPTEMBER 2020 TOURISM INDIA

51

NEWS / TRAVEL TRENDS

MASABA GUPTA ADDS AN AIRBNB TWIST TO WORKING FROM HOME

Masaba Gupta adapts to the new normal; chooses to ‘Work From Any Home’ With Airbnb

52

SEPTEMBER 2020 TOURISM INDIA

in the pool with some cocktails or reading a book out in the sun.

Create a dedicated workspace

While the change of scene is definitely something you need, you also need to ensure that you form a dedicated workspace in your new home. Whether it is a table on the terrace or a work desk in your room, find a corner that works best for you. It will help you focus better. I believe a clutter-free workplace can help keep a clutter-free mind.

W

hile Working From Home has become the new normal, ‘Home’ doesn’t have to be the same place you have been cooped up in for the last few months. As the world changes, visuals of the corner office are also changing to become a ‘favorite little corner’ of a warm comfortable home, whether it is your own, a villa on a beach or even a lodge in the Himalayas.

Taking inspiration from this, celebrated fashion designer Masaba Gupta, chose to pack up her bags and move to an Airbnb Villa in Goa. True to the philosophy of ‘Work From Any Home’, she is currently working on her upcoming line from a quaint Airbnb villa in Goa. With a private pool, beautiful gardens surrounding the home, and ample natural light, it is the perfect home office away from home. The villa presents an ideal example of comfort, relaxation, and luxury where Masaba can soak up some sun, visit the beach, or relax by the poolside, all while she works from home on her new collection.

Talking about her stay at the Airbnb home in Goa, Masaba Gupta said, “Over the last few months, we have all had to adapt to the new normal and new way of living – both in our personal and professional lives. Personwww.tourismindia.org

ally, one of the most significant changes for me has been the way I work. As a designer, I find inspiration from nature, travel, and the world around me. While I was able to work on designs for House of Masaba virtually over the last few months, I was truly craving a change in the scene to add a fresh perspective to my designs and work. As things have begun to open up, I am excited to venture beyond the confines of my own home to spend some time in a home in Goa & it has been a refreshing change for my creative spirit. What these last few months have taught all of us is that you can literally be anywhere in the world and still continue to stay connected to your friends, family, and colleagues.”

As she settles into her new workplace, Masaba shares some tips to ‘Work From Any Home’: 53

Stay connected – with colleagues and friends

Long working hours can often be draining, and personally staying connected with friends and family makes for a refreshing break. While meeting in person may be difficult in the foreseeable future, face to face interactions over video calls are a great way to stay connected.

Be comfy in work casuals

While you may have been tempted to turn on your laptop in bed, and work in your pajamas, it is important to not give into the temptation. Change into comfortable and casual clothes, because dressing up, even if slightly, will help you get into ‘work’ mode. After all, if you continue to be dressed for bed, your brain will think it’s okay to laze around too!

All work and no play, makes for low productivity

With deadlines looming and

Plan your day to maintain projects to be completed, we ofregular working hours ten tend to lose track of time while

While you are working from home, you need to ensure that you are not living with your work too. Plan your day in the morning in a manner that helps you wrap up on time. For me, this gives the perfect opportunity to relax and make the most of my new Airbnb home – whether it is chilling

working. Long working hours with no breaks result in reduced productivity and more distractions.

So, reward yourself with planned breaks – take a short walk in your garden, breathe in some fresh air and relax before you jump from one virtual meeting to another.

SEPTEMBER 2020 TOURISM INDIA

53

NEWS / HOSPITALITY

RCI UNVEILS THE ‘NEW SHAPE OF TRAVEL’

A NEW SUITE OF SERVICES, ACCESS, AND EXPERTISE FOR FOUR MILLION VACATION EXCHANGE MEMBERS

R

CI has launched a new suite of travel services and experiences for its members and affiliates as part of a new brand profile.

RCI, which pioneered the timeshare exchange concept more than 45 years ago and has had a presence in India for 27 years, is reinventing itself for the new shape of today’s travel with enhanced product offerings for its nearly 4 million members around

54

SEPTEMBER 2020 TOURISM INDIA

the world.

“The new RCI is evolving beyond its storied history as the timeshare industry’s most renowned exchange partner. We are expanding our services as the trusted travel advisor to our members and affiliates — not just once a year, but every time members leave home for their personal or business travel,” said Olivier Chavy, president of Panorama. “We are on a mission to

further expand the value of vacation ownership and provide our members and affiliates with comprehensive travel resources and experiences that translate to a true end-to-end travel provider, illustrating our expertise across the full spectrum of travel.”

MOVING FROM TRANSACTIONAL PLATFORM TO COMPREHENSIVE TRAVEL ADVISOR Today’s travelers want a onestop-shop with a company they

trust, who knows them and their travel preferences, not just for vacation exchange, but for all of their travel. RCI’s 2019 acquisition of Alliance Reservations Network (ARN) has enabled the company to continue evolving its offerings through enhanced B2B products and services for its affiliate partners, as well as bring new benefits for individual and group travel, events, and the corporate meetings market.

ARN’s highly configurable and intelligent booking platform gives RCI the ability to offer travelers a wide array of travel and lifestyle services through the delivery of an optimized booking engine, inventory at over 600,000 hotels and resorts, and competitive pricing.

Members and affiliates are already enjoying RCI’s ability to access hotel discounts, and Platinum member travel discounts launched earlier this year. The new and enhanced RCI services for Indian members include:

New offerings from vacation exchange pioneer further evolve today’s timeshare ownership to deliver year-round travel benefits for members The new RCI Travel service allows subscribing members to book all of their door-to-door travel needs in one place and benefit from exclusive pricing on hotels, car rentals, cruises, destination activities, and more.

The new discount option allows members to use their deposit trading power to buy down the cost of already discounted hotels and other accommodations at more than 600,000 properties around the world. RCI Platinum membership provides greater discounts, upgrades, and Priority Access to select exchange vaca-

tions.

RCI-affiliated resort partners are also benefitting from the new offerings in the RCI portfolio.

With the competitive technology provided by ARN, RCI is delivering a new suite of services that enable custom travel and club solutions driven by leading digital technology. Affiliates will be able to offer their members “white label” customized travel benefits, metropolitan accommodations, travel clubs, rental distribution, lead generation, and more.

“Our strategy is to expand beyond our core vacation exchange model into the broader travel market to become a leading travel membership provider,” says Paul Mulcahy, managing director of APAC, India, and EMEA for RCI. “We plan to continue our focus on the customer experience by expanding our expertise to be the trusted source for all our members’ global travel needs.”

RCI PARTNERS WITH SANSKRUTI SUITES & RESORT, ADDS NEW RESORT

R

CI has announced a brand new affiliation, Sanskruti Suites & Resort to its existing 4, 300 hotels base. With this new addition, RCI’s India portfolio has reached to 214 resorts in the country.

Located eequidistant from Pune and Mumbai in Karjat, the resort makes for a perfect Weekend holiday. The resort offers 30 luxury villas, featuring a living room, kitchenette, one master bedroom and one children’s room on the attic floor. It has 36 Studio Suites, featuring a small living room area, well equipped kitchenette and a king size bed and 6 Studio Suites, featuring a small living room area, well equipped kitchenette, a king size bed and a large terrace. Additionally, the resort is a pet friendly property.

www.tourismindia.org

Commenting on the affiliation, Rishi Verma, BD Head, Indian Sub-continent, RCI “We are absolutely thrilled to welcome Sanskruti Suites & Resort into the world’s largest vacation exchange network and we look forward to working closely with them to build new and innovative programs 55 that will provide increased flexibility, benefits and opportunities for their owners and our members. At RCI, we believe in creating family holidays with unforgettable memories, and our partnership with Sanskruti Suites & Resort will complement this vision.”

The resort offers a pure vegetarian multi cuisine restaurant, a 24/7 Coffee Shop, a sports bar, a large Banquet Lawn admeasuring 45,000 sq. ft and in room dining.

It also offers a Swimming Pool, an open air jacuzzi and massage rooms. Several cultural activities take place at the resort such as pot making, bullock cart rides, puppet shows, rangoli and bangle making etc.

“We look forward to working with RCI to provide our Resort Owners with global exchange options. Timeshare exchange is a great vacation selection for travelers worldwide and we are confident that working with RCI will make Sanskruti Suites & Resort a popular vacation destination for those looking to enjoy a weekend getaway in Karjat. Shared, Mr Shrikant Ashok Chopda, Partner, Sanskruti Suites & Resort.

SEPTEMBER 2020 TOURISM INDIA 55 55

NEWS / INTERNATIONAL

MALAYSIA

LAUNCHES CAMPAIGN CUTI-CUTI MALAYSIA

The Cuti-Cuti Malaysia TV Promo Campaign is one of Tourism Malaysia’s initiatives in line with Yang Berhormat Dato’ Sri Nancy’s call in boosting domestic tourism

D

ato’ Sri Hajah Nancy Shukri, Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture has launched the Cuti-Cuti Malaysia TV Promo Campaign at Dewan Tun Dr. Ismail, World Trade Center (WTC) Kuala Lumpur .

56

SEPTEMBER 2020 TOURISM INDIA

The Cuti-Cuti Malaysia TV Promo Campaign is one of Tourism Malaysia’s initiatives in line with Yang Berhormat Dato’ Sri Nancy’s call in boosting domestic tourism. The 5 promotional videos that have been pro-

duced highlight several tourism themes and products, including Islands and Beaches, Diving and Underwater Activities, Nature and Adventure, and Food. All of them will be broadcast on RTM through TV1, TV2, and TV OKEY.

“Through this approach, the Cuti-Cuti Malaysia TV Promo Campaign at RTM will be able to help provide greater exposure to various local products in order to revitalize the country’s tourism industry, thus placing Malaysia as a safe tourist destination to visit,” said Yang Berhormat Dato’ Sri Nancy during the launch.

In line with the launch of the Cuti-Cuti Malaysia TV Promo Campaign, the winners of the Cuti-Cuti at Home Music Video Competition organised by Tourism Malaysia during the Movement Control Order period were also announced. The competition was open to the public through digital platforms from 18 April 2020 to 9 June 2020, and participants were given three category choices in producing short video clips, namely playing musical instruments, singing, or performing sketches.

Apart from being a platform for participants to highlight their talents in various fields, the competition also aimed to spark and boost domestic tourism by opening holiday opportunities to the public through the prizes offered.

“It is the duty of all of us to ensure that Malaysia recovers from this pandemic, with our discipline in adhering to the standard operating procedures (SOPs), wearing face masks, and maintaining social distancing. Let us not take this matter lightly because prevention is indeed better than cure,” advised Yang Berhormat Dato’ Sri Nancy. www.tourismindia.org

DATO’ SERI RAMLAN BIN IBRAHIM APPOINTED AS NEW TOURISM MALAYSIA CHAIRMAN

D

ato’ Seri Ramlan Bin Ibrahim has been appointed as the Chairman of Malaysia Tourism Promotion Board effective 3rd August 2020.

Dato’ Seri Ramlan entered the Administrative and Diplomatic Service of Malaysia in 1983.

His first posting was as Second Secretary to the Embassy of Malaysia in Jakarta in 1988. Two years later, he was reassigned to the Embassy of Malaysia in the Netherlands, but as First Secretary.

In 1994, Ramlan returned to the headquarters and was assigned to the Europe Division. It was not long before the Ministry sent him on another posting - this time as the Chargé d’Affaires ad interim in the Embassy of Malaysia in Zagreb, Croatia.

He returned three years later, in 2000, to become the Princi57 pal Assistant Secretary at the Division of South East Asia. The following year, Ramlan was appointed as Deputy High Commissioner to Singapore.

His first posting as Ambassador was to Bosnia Herzegovina, in 2004. In 2009, Ramlan was again appointed Ambassador of Malaysia - this time to the Republic of Korea. His return from Korea in 2013 saw him heading

the Bilateral Department, the second-highest post in the Malaysian foreign service. In April 2015, Dato’ Seri Ramlan was appointed as Malaysia’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations in New York.

In 2017, Dato’ Seri Ramlan was appointed as the Secretary General of Ministry of Foreign Affairs. In February 2019, he was appointed as the Member of Election Commission of Malaysia until July 2020.

He looks forward to working closely with the management and officers of Tourism Malaysia, the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, the tourism trade industry and the media and to further promoting Malaysia as a main tourist destination in Southeast Asia.

SEPTEMBER 2020 TOURISM INDIA

57

NEWS / INTERNATIONAL

VFTCB LAUNCHES MONTCO WELLNESS INITIATIVE To Make It Safe and Make It Healthy #MakeItMontco

T

o help visitors specifically event planners and their guests in a post-COVID world the Valley Forge Tourism & Convention Board (VFTCB) has launched the Montco Wellness for Events initiative. The program is an expansion of the organization’s previously created Montco Wellness brand that highlights ways for people to unplug, relax, get back in touch with nature, focus on health and nutrition, and enjoy fitness and culture in the county Montco Wellness for Events serves as an information portal to provide updates on well-being measures during the public health pandemic. Thoughtfully designed with group needs in mind, the goal of the program is to provide easily accessible information to planners so they can make informed, confident decisions about hosting events in Montgomery County.

The idea is for event planners to Make It Safe, and Make It Healthy when they #MakeItMontco.

“Everyone’s safety, and health, is our number one priority,” said Lisa Karl, Vice President of Sales & Strategic Partnerships for the VFTCB. “We want to give people peace of mind, being that valuable go-to resource so people have important tools and timely information, creative ways to stay active and keep their immune systems 58

SEPTEMBER 2020 TOURISM INDIA

strong, and of course other things to do to improve their experience here.

We want to help the once robust tourism and hospitality industry recover successfully, and bring that strong economic impact back to the region.”

The portal provides links to current and real-time COVID-19 data, guidelines for events from the county, state, and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, links to the corporate brand, and independent property, safety and cleanliness standards for hotels, venues, and attractions, and other stats, and maps, registration information to sign-up for ReadyMontCo official alert notifications about emergencies, and severe weather, etc.

Event planners can also explore the VFTCB’s redesigned meetings site that’s now broken out by market segment. Then, visitors can #MakeItMontco, and discover Valley Forge and Montgomery County’s rich history where there’s room to stay, and space to play, while safely social distancing – all just 18 miles from downtown Philadelphia.

The Valley Forge Tourism & Convention Board (VFTCB) is a nonprofit, membership-based sales and marketing organization that actively promotes Valley Forge and Montgomery County, PA as a convention site and leisure visitor destination by encouraging patronage of its 600+ member hotels, restaurants, attractions, and services

59

www.tourismindia.org

SEPTEMBER 2020 TOURISM INDIA

59