May16

RNI No.: DELENG/2014/59308

www.whereabouts.in

Volume II Issue VIII MAY 2016

Annual Subscription ` 660

In Conversation

Prakash Bang Managing Director RoomsXML Solutions

Need to Know

NTO

Isra Stapanaseth Director TAT Delhi Steven Dixon Regional Manager - South &

Mandavi

The Historical

Port Town

South East Asia at Tourism New Zealand

JORDAN

Whereabouts

A NON STOP THRILL RIDE

ASSOCIATION

STATE

AVIATION

NTO

HOSPITALITY

Editor Rajesh Tiwari rajesh@whereabots.in +91 9818525672

Correspondents Jai Kishan Kaparwan Nisha whereabouts.in@gmail.com

Art Director

CONTENTS REGULAR NEWS IN BRIEF 6 TRAVEL BUSINESS 8 ASSOCIATION 9

Mithlesh Gupta

ADVERTISING Commercial Director Dheeraj Anand +91 9560444678 dheeraj@whereabouts.in Advertising Manager (North-West) Solomon Saxeana +91 9999810390 solomon@whereabouts.in Advertising Manager (South-East) Santosh K Mishra +91 8447786636 marketing@whereabouts.in Marketing & Events Manager Lakshman Vashisth +91 9911907050

MoT 14 STATE 15 AVIATION 16 NTO 22 HOSPITALITY 32 CRUISE 34 FACT & FIGURES 36 APPOINTMENT & EVENTS 38

Principal Advisor Anil Prakash LEGAL ADVISOR Advocate Brijesh Tiwari

PRODUCTION & DISTRIBUTION Production Manager Subhash Distribution Executive Anoop Singh

IN CONVERSATION 12 Prakash Bang Managing Director RoomsXML

Accounts CA Rishabh Rana

Technical & Web Support Amit Agrahari All information in Whereabouts is derived from sources, which we consider reliable and a sincere effort is made to report accurate and up to date information.

All contents of this publication are reserved worldwide. Reproduction in any manner without prior written permission is prohibited.

All disputes are subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of component courts and forums in Delhi only.

Whereabouts is own, printed & published

by Rajesh Tiwari. Whereabouts is printed at Pritika Printers, A-21/27, Naraina Industrial Area, Phase-II, New Delhi 110028 and published from E-8/401, Nehru Vihar, Delhi 110094. Editor Rajesh Tiwari

NEED TO KNOW 19-21

MANDVI

The Historical Port Town

EDITOR’S NOTE

WHEREABOUTS 24-27

JORDAN

A NON STOP THRILL RIDE

Dear Readers, First of all I would like to congratulate the entire team of newly elected Executive Committee Members of Indian Association of Tour Operators. I believe under the dynamic leadership of Mr Pronab Sarkar the team is reinvigorated to act for the betterment of the industry and its stakeholders. Its good to hear from the president that he wishes to work with the motto sabka sath sabka vikas.

Soon after taking over as the president, he assured the members to complete the work which remained unfinished during last term. I am sure he must have big plans to execute with immediate effect.

Coming back to this edition of the magazine; this time we have compiled a host of interesting and inspiring articles for you; starting from in conversation to exclusive interaction with Tourism Authority of Thailand and Tourism New Zealand along with the fantastic destination features on Mandvi (Gujarat) and Jordan.

I will be happy to have your valuable feedback at rajesh@ whereabouts.in Happy reading

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NEWS IN BRIEF

World Committee on Tourism Ethics

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he 17th meeting of the World Committee on Tourism Ethics, held at the UNWTO headquarters in Madrid, Spain on 26-27 April 2016 discussed the advances in the process of conversion of the Global Code of Ethics for Tourism into an international convention and reiterated the importance of transforming the Code into legally binding international law.

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nternational visitor demand into the Asia Pacific region is forecast to grow at an average rate of 4.6 percent each year to reach in excess of 657 million by 2020. This is the top line prediction contained within the Executive Summary Report of the PATA Asia Pacific Visitor Forecasts 2016-2020 released recently.

The process of transformation is led by a group of UNWTO Member States which is currently drafting the text of the convention to be presented to the 22nd UNWTO General Assembly to be held in China in 2017.

“Transforming the UNWTO Global Code of Ethics into an international convention represents a major step forward in ensuring that tourism development is a force for good in our societies and UNWTO Members States are committed to this objective. I trust that this convention will be an example of how the tourism sector can lead in promoting a more inclusive and fairer development model” said UNWTO Secretary-General, Taleb Rifai.

Over the course of the two-day meeting, the Committee also debated how to increase the awareness of the Global Code of Ethics

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Taleb Rifai Secretary-General UNWTO

for Tourism and its core values such as accessibility for all, child protection and the obligations of tourism service providers in the field of safety and security standards in tourist accommodation and beach water sports.

Make your summer break extra special with DVPC’s exciting new offer

his summer Dubai Visa Processing Centre (DVPC) introduces a new offer of Rs. 4999 only for a 30 days single entry visa to Dubai. Emirates Airline passengers travelling from India can avail this exciting new offer and enjoy the shopping, sightseeing and adventure the United Arab Emirates (UAE) offers.

Essa Sulaiman Ahmad, Vice President - India and Nepal, Emirates Airline, said, “Emirates has always been committed to improving the convenience of its passengers by providing best-in-class services both on ground and on board. With DVPC’s offer, we aim to make the travel process even more cost effective for our passengers in India.

We are very happy to partner with DVPC to offer yet another unique service that I am optimistic will assist our many Indian customers to visit Dubai with increased ease.”

6 May 2016

Travel Demand for Asia Pacific to grow by 4.6% each year until 2020

Adding to this, Vinay Malhotra, COO – South Asia and DVPC, VFS Global said, “DVPC, in partnership with Emirates Airline, always seeks to bring its customers utmost convenience, ease and unparalleled service quality when planning their trips to Dubai.

This new offering of Rs.4999 for a 30 days single-entry visa will be beneficial to all our Indian travellers, especially with the holiday season being around the corner.”

All Emirates Airline passengers can avail this offer by either booking their visa through a registered travel agent or by visiting a DVPC visa application centre of their choice, located in 12 major cities across India. DVPC’s unmatched service quality and faster turnaround times makes an applicant’s Dubai visa application process seamless and hassle-free.

Covering 38 key destinations within the Asia Pacific region, these annual PATA forecasts are well regarded for their overall accuracy and reliability in terms of highlighting shifts and trends in international visitor demand for travel in and across the region.

According to Mario Hardy, Chief Executive Officer of the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA), “Actual foreign arrival numbers into Asia Pacific at the aggregate level have been within two percent of predictions made in the last few PATA forecasts, so we know that the numbers are realistic, reliable and valid.

Asia will continue to increase its relative dominance of foreign arrivals into the Asia Pacific region through to 2020, increasing its relative share of these arrivals from 72 percent in 2015 to better than 73 percent by 2020. Southeast Asia will continue with its dramatic rise in foreign arrivals, improving its relative share from just under 20 percent in 2015 to around 22.5 percent by 2020, when it will rival the share of the Americas at that time (22.6%).

Asia will also continue to generate more international arrivals into Asia Pacific, increasing its count from 355 million visitors in 2015 to around 448 million by the end of this decade. That will see the Asian component of arrivals into Asia Pacific – as defined in this summary report – increase from 66 percent (2015) to over 68 percent by 2020.

However, it is Northeast Asia that remains the workhorse for Asia Pacific, generating an expected 333 million international arrivals into the region in 2020 - more than half of the total foreign inbound volume expected in that year.

NEWS IN BRIEF

PM Modi launches eco-friendly e-boats at Varanasi’s Assi Ghat

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rime Minister, Narendra Modi, launched the environment friendly E-Boats at Assi Ghat, in his Lok Sabha constituency Varanasi. He interacted with boatmen, and took a brief ride on an e-boat in the River Ganga, before arriving at the dais to address the gathering at Assi Ghat. Speaking on the occasion, the Prime Minister explained that the e-boats would reduce pollution, provide a better experience for tourists, and save a substantial amount for the beneficiaries through lower fuel costs.

He urged the beneficiaries to use the savings for the benefit of their younger generation.

The Prime Minister emphasised that his Government was focused on creating schemes which would strengthen the people, and empower the poor so that they can battle poverty. He recalled how India’s indigenous navigation satellite network, has been named NAVIC in honour of the millions of people who earn their livelihoods on boats.

I Earlier, he distributed e-rickshaws to beneficiaries, and interacted with them, at the DLW Grounds in Varanasi. The Prime Minister visited Gyan Pravah: Centre for Cultural Studies and Research, and appreciated the efforts made to showcase India’s cultural heritage. Interacting with prominent citizens of Varanasi, the Prime Minister exhorted them to work towards ensuring cleanliness, and making Varanasi one of the cleanest cities.

Promotion of Medical Tourism

n order to provide dedicated institutional framework to take forward the cause of promotion of Medical Tourism, Wellness Tourism and Yoga, Ayurveda Tourism and any other format of Indian system of medicine covered by Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha and Homeopathy (AYUSH), a National Medical and Wellness Tourism Board has been constituted. The Board shall work as an umbrella organisation that governs and promotes this segment of tourism in an organised manner.

Vietnam Tourism interacts with travel agents

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mbassy of the S.R. of Vietnam, in association with OM Tourism, organised the Vietnam Tourism Promotion Road show in New Delhi on 20th April and Bhubaneswar on 21st April under the theme Vietnam – an incredible destination for Indian tourists. The event was well attended by travel agents and media personnel in both the cities.

In his welcoming speech, H.E. Ton Sinh Thanh, Ambassador of Vietnam to India recalled the historic links between India and Vietnam.

Ambassador Thanh affirmed, “After nearly 30 years of renovation, from a country heavily damaged by the war, Vietnam has become one of the most dynamic economies in the region.”

“Vietnam is home of 8 UNESCO world heritages, well –preserved historic relics and beautiful beaches which can rival the beaches in Thailand or Malaysia. Indian travelers can find the essence of Indian culture in Vietnam through Hindu temples in Ho Chi Minh City or at the My Son

The Ministry would drive the promotion of Medical & Wellness Tourism and will act as a facilitator and support the medical/ wellness segment in promoting tourism and promoting India as a medical and wellness destination.

sanctuary or even at the numerous Indian restaurants,” he informed.

He added that 70,000 Indian tourists visited Vietnam in 2015, which is an increase of 27.27% as compared to 55,000 tourists who visited in 2014. Ambassador Thanh invited Indian and especially tour operators and travel agents from New Delhi and NCR to take initiative to promote Vietnam as a tourist destination.

The Board held its first meeting on 13th January 2016. The issues relating to regulations, monitoring, marketing & promotion of Medical and Wellness Tourism are looked into by the Board. The foreign tourists who visited India for medical purpose during 2012, 2013 and 2014 were 171021, 236898 and 184298, respectively.

Data for the year 2014 is of visa type by Nationality. Earlier data is of Nationalitywise FTAs by purpose of visit based on the information recorded in disembarkation card.

May 2016 7

TRAVEL BUSINESS

Industry leaders map out sustainable future of UAE tourism The Future of the UAE as a Global Tourism Hub was the headline session opener for the all new Global Stage at ATM 2016 (Monday 25 April 2016), as eight of the Emirate’s leading tourism and hospitality minds shared their experience and insight into opportunities for sustained future sector growth.

WH Desk

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ifferentiation as part of a shared UAE wide tourism vision was the consensus of the eightstrong panel, with each emirate highlighting its individual contribution to the tourism big picture as the Emirates looks to the long term.

Moderated by BBC World News anchor, Zeinab Badawi, the panelists included Gerald Lawless, Head of Tourism, Dubai Holding; Issam Kazim, CEO, DCTCM; Haitham Mattar, CEO, Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority; Marwan bin Jassim Al Sarkal, CEO, Shurooq; Sultan Al Mutawa Al Dhaheri, Acting Executive Director, Tourism, Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority; Aligi Gardenghi, VP Marketing EMEA and Commercial Director MEA, Hilton; Thierry Antinori, Executive Vice President & CCO, Emirates Airline; and HE Khalid Jasim Al Midfa, Chairman, Sharjah Commerce & Tourism Development Authority.

“We are not looking at competing, but complementing; you don’t see the Côte d’Azur racing to become the next Paris. We are all busy trying to leverage our greatest assets to position ourselves in the market,” said Haitham Mattar, CEO, Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority; a sentiment that was echoed by the other nonDubai panelists.

Sultan Al Mutawa Al Dhaheri, Acting Executive Director, Tourism, Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority (ADTCA), said, “What we do as the seven emirates in promoting the UAE and each city so aggressively that we are complementing one another. We are not just growing visitor numbers we want to retain them.”

According to Marwan bin Jassim Al Sarkal, CEO, Shurooq, the UAE’s tourism authorities are not in a race to emulate Dubai’s success; rather the focus is on developing and showcasing unique attributes and attractions. “We focused on features that we can actually build on like the heart of Sharjah historic district; ecotourism on Sharjah’s east coast where, for

8 May 2016

Left to right: Marwan bin Jassim Al Sarkal, CEO, Shurooq; Sultan Al Mutawa Al Dhaheri, Sultan Al Mutawa Al Dhaheri, Acting Executive Director, Tourism, Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority, Aligi Gardenghi, VP Marketing EMEA and Commercial Director MEA, Hilton, HE Khalid Jasim Al Midfa, Chairman, Sharjah Commerce & Tourism Development Authority, Zeinab Badawi, anchor, BBC World News, Issam Kazim, CEO, DCTCM, Haitham Mattar, CEO, Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority, Thierry Antinori, Executive Vice President & CCO, Emirates Airline, Gerald Lawless, Head of Tourism, Dubai Holding

example, you can kayak in Kalba and see turtles and kingfishers,” he remarked.

tourism industry, this would facilitate travel in a very secure manner for the future.”

For Issam Kazim, CEO, DCTCM, future growth is still reliant on public-private partnerships, but with the need to take things to the next level and showcase the depth of Dubai’s tourism product, as well as continuing to promote the safe and secure environment of the UAE. “The region has been in the middle of negative noise for quite some time, and we need to show the positive energy that is coming out of the UAE,” he said.

Continued peace and harmony with its neighbours was also raised as crucial for the UAE tourism sector’s stability and growth; and this extends to destination marketing on a global level. “It’s important to be able to manage perceptions, and this can be achieved through stronger bonds and collaboration with the media,” noted HE Khalid Jasim Al Midfa, Chairman, Sharjah Commerce & Tourism Development Authority.

“Rather than our original six or seven source markets, we are now focused on the 20 markets that we need to be going after; and this can also benefit the other emirates,” he added.

Arabian hospitality was also identified as a key driver for tourism growth. “When you come here, you feel at home. It is a place where everybody smiles at you. We are a place that welcomes people, and a lot of people dismiss this when they travel,” remarked Marwan bin Jassim Al Sarkal, CEO, Shurooq.

Gerald Lawless, Head of Tourism, Dubai Holding, and newly appointed Chairman of the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), commenting on challenges to future tourism growth, said, “It is important for all governments to look at the facilitation of travel. We want to make it more secure by having a common visa process.” “It’s not about which country a person is coming from, but the individual. For all of us in the

“Designed to showcase the very best speakers in the business, with a wealth of high level strategic topics, the ATM Global Stage certainly provided a strong start to the 2016 proceedings with an impressive and incisive discussion,” concluded Nadege Noblet-Segers, Exhibition Manager, Arabian Travel Market.

ASSOCIATION

Pronab Sarkar elected as President; Lally makes a comeback as Hony Sec. of IATO WH Desk

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he Indian Association of Tour Operator (IATO) has elected the new Executive Committee for next two year (2016-18) term. The election was held in New Delhi in the observation of Akshay Kumar as Returning Officer for the election.

Pronab Sarkar (170 votes) has emerged as the first choice for the top job of IATO as its President for the next two years term. He defeated Vijay Thakur (82 votes), Sarab Jit Singh (25 votes) and Maharaja I S Wahi (16 votes) the other three contestants for the post of the president.

While Rajeev Kohli (153 votes) defeated EM Najeeb (140 votes) for the Senior Vice President’s position, Rajiv Mehra (169 votes) elected as the Vice President against Lajpat Rai (124 votes). Amaresh Tiwari (178) was elected as the Hony Treasurer against S K Yadav (115 votes), and Sandeep Jain (147) as the Joint Secretary against Sanjeev Joshi (146 votes).

In an interesting outcome, Lally Mathews (163 votes) made a comeback as the Hony.

Secretary of the new EC. He was contesting

Clockwise: Pronab Sarkar, Rajeev Kohli, Rajiv Mehra, Sandeep Jain, Amaresh Tiwari, Lally Mathews

List of Office Bearers/EC Members who have been declared elected is as under:For the post of

Name/Company Name

President

Pronab Sarkar Swagatam Tours Pvt. Ltd.

Sr. Vice President

Rajeev Kohli, Creative Travel Pvt. Ltd.

Vice President

Rajiv Mehra, Uday Tours & Travel Pvt. Ltd.

Hony. Secretary

Lally Mathews Vacations Travels & Tours Pvt. Ltd.

Hony. Treasurer

Amaresh Tiwari, A.T. Seasons & Vacations Travel Pvt. Ltd.

Hony. Joint Secretary

Sandeep Jain Special Holidays Travel Pvt. Ltd.

Immediate Past President

Subhash Goyal, Stic Travel Pvt. Ltd. (in terms of IATO Memorandum of Association)

Executive Committee Members

1. P.S. Duggal, Minar Travels (India) Pvt. Ltd. 2. Raj Bajaj, Adventure World (India) Pvt. Ltd. 3. Rajnish Kaistha, Paradise Holidays (India) Pvt. Ltd. 4. Ramesh Wattal, Welcome Travels 5. Viney Tyagi, Uni Crystal Holidays Pvt. Ltd.

(ACTIVE)

Executive Committee Members (ALLIED)

1. N.S. Rathor, Pooja Travels 2. Sunil Gupta, Travel Bureau 3. Zia Siddiqui, Alliance Hotels & Resorts

against Ravi Gosain (130); the former member of the official panel.

The newly elected Executive Committee members Active are PS Duggal (165), Raj Bajaj (221), Rajnish Kaistha (195), Ramesh Wattel (157), and Viney Tyagi (163), all supported by the official panel. NS Rathore (213), Sunil Gupta (261) and Zia Siddique (220) were elected as Allied members to the Executive Committee.

While interacting with the media the newly elected president said,” I assure you that the new team shall deliver as per your expectations and we shall work hard with collective efforts and intelligence to serve the entire Membership and the Industry.

He further said, “I reassure you of our best of services and full endeavors to complete the work which remained unfinished. Also our new initiatives will have counting on your suggestion and guidance. Keep your support continued so that united we make IATO the real platform for India’s tourism, travel and hospitality industry.”

He congratulated and welcomed Lally Mathews, Sandeep Jain, P.S. Duggal and Viney Tyagi in the EC. All the elected members will work as one team and will do their best for the benefit of the industry assured Pronab Sarkar to the members of IATO.

May 2016 9

TRAVEL BUSINESS

Student of the Year contest turning bigger & better YOY InterGlobe Technology Quotient’s ‘Student of the Year’ contest is a remarkable initiative that brings into the limelight some of our industry’s brightest talents. Started with 53 students three year ago; the contest had received more than 100 entries for this year’s contest.

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nterGlobe Technology Quotient (ITQ), a strategic business unit of InterGlobe Enterprises and the official distributor of Travelport in India, Sri Lanka, Bhutan and in five markets across the Asia Pacific region, had organised the 3rd edition of ‘Student of the Year’ contest. It was aimed at creating talent for the travel industry and encouraging academy students to reach standards of high excellence in the Travel and Tourism space.

Held at Hotel Ibis at Aerocity on 19 April 2016, the final round of the contest decided the winner amongst the top five finalists. The process of selection started on January 2016 when an online questionnaire was

shared with the students. As many as 100 students from prestigious institutions Pan-India had participated and submitted their entry online.

Selected candidates of the first round were further evaluated thus permitting the panel of experts to shortlist the top 5 students for the final round.

Each of the 5 finalists had to do a presentation and undergo a Personal Interactive session with the respected panel of judges, after which one student finally claimed the ‘Student of the Year 2016’ title. This event was planned to benefit the students eager to pursue a career in travel and tourism sector with their presentation skills and depth of industry knowledge.

“This is the third consecutive year we have organised this contest and we are overwhelmed with the response we have received. On the year of its launch we had 53 students’ participating in the first round of selection from Pan India, last year the number went up to 80, and this

year we had more than 100 students.

The increasing number of students’ participation every year is giving us brighter hopes for the future as we continue to introduce brighter prospects for them,” said Anil Parashar, President & CEO, ITQ. Elaborating on the event Sandeep Dwivedi, Chief Commercial Officer, ITQ, said, “Student of the Year contest was a brainchild of eminent travel industry professionals who thought that young and able minds should get a chance to demonstrate their ability and knowledge and get recognized for the same. Student of the Year is a platform doing just that and we hope to continue bringing bright young minds to the forefront in the years to come.”

WOMEN IN TRAVEL: Opportunities and Trends in the Middle East The session was moderated by Alessandra Alonso, Chief Mentor, Everyday Mentor and Carol Hay, Director of Marketing, UK and Europe Caribbean Tourism Organisation also joined the panel.

and women shouldn’t be afraid to put themselves forward,” for AN opportunity she said. “There is also so much more that could be done to attract career minded women,” she continued.

WH Desk

“Women are hard workers and dedicated however within the travel and tourism sector specifically, it can be very challenging to carve out a career, motherhood and a partnership due to its 24/7 nature, but there are opportunities for flexible ways of working that would suit women with children, for instance.”

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he topic was highlighted by Debrah Dhugga, MD of DUKES London and Dubai, who is also a career mentor to women, as she discussed how there are some fantastic prospects for women in this region but that more could be done to attract good candidates. “I am inspired by the recent appointment for Dubai The minister of Happiness a female leader. Perhaps things will change and more companies will follow and give opportunity,” she said. “There are lots of opportunities for women in business in the UAE

10 May 2016

“When I first took a board position I remember walking into the room and there were nine men sitting around the table,” she said. “All that was running through my mind was whether I should be wearing trousers rather than a skirt, I soon realised this

didn’t matter at all. As long as you are in control of what you are doing, you believe in yourself and ask questions along the way then you are likely to succeed. I truly believe a mixed gender builds a better business. Men and women have different strengths pull them together and look at the results.

On tackling the issue of balancing a family life with a career she had the following advice.

“As a mother, you need to be prepared to make sacrifices,” she said. “I have a son and a daughter who are now grown up and young professionals – but when they were younger, I paid more in childcare than I was earning you have to weigh up what the overall, long-term benefits for the family.”

May 2016 11

IN CONVERSATION

Money is not the last thing for me. I value honesty and integrity: Prakash Bang Here is the inspiring story of a man who started his journey as a door to door sales man and executed a number of assignments before reaching to the destination of life – roomsXML Solutions which according to him is the world’s first multiplesupplier-single-feed concept.

The Managing Director of roomXML says; Money is not the last thing for me. I value honesty and integrity I respect people more for the qualities that they have than the rank that they hold. In an exclusive conversation with Rajesh Tiwari he reveals the unknown facts of his personal and professional life; here are the excerpts.

What encouraged you to make your career in travel and tourism industry; how has your journey been over the years?

Way back in 2003, working as a brand strategist, I had the opportunity to interact with a travel agent in UK. I realised the challenges the travel agent had to face whilst booking a hotel room for their customers. Depending on tariff books; faxes, phones and then e-mails were a cause of heartburn. The fact encouraged me to develop a system that would pull information from various hotel room suppliers and allow the agents to book rooms online, at net rates and at the best price possible. Thus germinated the roomsXML.com; world’s first multiplesupplier-single-feed concept. It took me four years to build the system and soft launch of the roomsXML happened in 2007.

The journey so far has been very, very encouraging. Steady growth and profitability motivates us to invest in innovations, product development and after sales support.

Few pictures shot by Prakash Bang and exhibited at Jehangir Art Gallery, Mumbai and Bal Gandharva Kala Dalan, Pune.

12 May 2016

When you decided to establish roomsXML.com; what was the idea behind establishing this venture?

Would you like to elaborate a little on your niche area as well?

The idea behind establishing roomsXML was simple – to become the preferred supplier of hotel rooms. For that to happen, we had no option but to focus on the accommodation segment. By choosing a niche area, it was possible to put all our energies and resources in making roomsXML what it is today – robust, therefore dependable.

How do you see the growth of roomsXML in next couple of years?

We are never after the numbers. In our kind of line, the numbers can multiply many times over by just offering credit and discount. Probably, we are the only ones around who don’t offer credit unless backed by a deposit or a bank guarantee. Thanks to our volumes, the pricing we offer is sharp, but we never claim to be the cheapest in the

IN CONVERSATION

marketplace. A business has to earn a fair profit to be able to sustain and offer efficient service that is so very essential for a B2B like ours. We have been growing at over 50% YOY for the last so many years. I don’t know whether that’s good; but we are happy and so are our agents.

What are the latest initiatives taken for roomsXML.com?

Over the last few years we have introduced 11 features that were unique in the industry.

Many of the features are yet to be emulated by other systems in the marketplace. Deduplication of inventory and naming of the rooms as hotels call them have been our alltime best. The innovation in 2016 is under the hat for now.

Have you noticed any latest trend that will impact the online travel industry in the year 2016?

Fierce competition has led to severe discounting. This can’t go on for a long time.

Consolidation has to happen. The ones with deep pockets will survive a wee bit longer.

Others will have to create their own niche/ specialty to be able to survive.

What were the key turning points of your professional side?

industry (roomsXML Solutions). Been 46 years now and I still carry the binoculars with me.

What are the best, and most challenging parts of your job?

Keeping pace with technology is the most challenging. What was great 3 years ago, is obsolete today.

TETE-E-TETE How would you describe yourself?

Having come-up the old-fashioned way, by working hard to make a living, I think I am pretty grounded. Money is not the last thing for me. I value honesty and integrity.

I respect people more for the qualities that they have than the rank that they hold.

Where have you travelled last/ recently with your family?

For business, I need to travel frequently.

Only last week I was back from Alaska, USA. With family, I am out on a vacation about twice a year - a long one and a short one. My last long one was driving through northern Italy with my wife in October last; and a short one was with her to Chandigarh & Amritsar in January this year.

The sense of smelling an opportunity, I guess. I started my career as a door to door salesman at the age of 14. That got me to the doors of textiles. That led me to become a hoarding contractor (Quiksel Advertisers) for Vimal fabrics. Outdoor displays made me smell mainstream advertising (Quiksel Communications). That led me to online marketing (WebSource Technologies) which put on my plate the travel and tourism

Prakash Bang with wife Vrunda in northern Italy

Do you have any favourite childhood travel memory?

To be honest, I never really had the opportunity to travel for a holiday with my parents, at least not the one that I can remember of. I do cherish my drive holiday with my maternal uncle to Rajasthan and southern India.

How do you make a balance in your personal and professional life?

Like they say, I have the time for everything; and everything is on time. I do believe that I can manage my time quite efficiently. Once the business hours are over, the time for the family begins and that includes some time to pursue my hobby - photography. I enjoy being with my two grandsons as much as I love to break the bread with all my family members.

If not a travel and tourism professional; what would you be?

A brand strategist. Which I was - pursuing actively before the travel and tourism bug bit me.

FAV4 Destination: India: Rajasthan Overseas: New Zealand Cuisines: Maharashtrian & Chinese Hotel: I sell hotel rooms for a living so won’t name anybody; the 5 stars with best deals attract me the most!

Airlines: I was with Cathay Pacific for many years; however recently migrated to Etihad.

May 2016 13

MoT

Buddhist Circuit Under MoT Launches National Monuments Authority Swadesh Darshan Web Portal Scheme Under Buddhist Circuit theme, Ministry has sanctioned the project ‘Construction of Cultural Centre at Bodhgaya, Bihar’ for Rs.33.17 crore in 2014-15.

WH Desk

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inistry of Tourism undertakes several promotional activities in the domestic and international markets for promotion of the varied tourism products and destinations of the country including Buddhist Heritage, Sites and Circuits.

The Ministry of Tourism organises International Buddhist Conclave every alternate year since 2010; publicity material and collaterals in English and foreign languages are produced for domestic and international markets; media campaigns in the print and electronic media are undertaken in the domestic and international markets; familiarisation tours for trade, media and opinion makers are undertaken from overseas to Buddhist Sites and Circuits in the country under the Hospitality Scheme of the Ministry.

There is no state wise allocation of funds for States/Union Territory Administrations under the scheme. The funds are sanctioned to State Governments/Union Territory Administrations for various tourism projects in consultation with them subject to availability of funds, liquidation of pending utilization certificates, submission of suitable Detailed Project Report and adherence to the scheme guidelines.

The Ministry of Tourism has launched the Swadesh Darshan scheme in the year 2014-15 with a vision to develop theme based tourist circuits on the principles of high tourist value, competitiveness and sustainability in an integrated manner by synergizing efforts to focus on needs and concerns of all stakeholders to enrich tourist experience and enhance employment opportunities. The Ministry has identified Buddhist Circuit as one of the thirteen thematic circuits for development under the Swadesh Darshan scheme

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r. Mahesh Sharma, Minister of State of Culture and Tourism (I/C) and Minister of State for Civil Aviation launched the National Monuments Authority (NMA)’s Web Portal called ‘NOC Online Application and Processing System’ (NOAPS) to facilitate single window clearance.

Keeping in view the directive of Prime Minister of India regarding ‘e-Governance’ and ‘Ease of Doing Business’, the National Monuments Authority has developed this online Web Portal. The Portal has used the technology and expertise of Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO), who are in the process of mapping of 3686 ASI protected monuments and sites.

They have developed a user friendly Mobile App, which can be downloaded free cost by an applicant and can be used to upload the geo coordinates of his plot which falls within the prohibited/ regulated area of the monument.

One of the tasks mandated to NMA is to consider the impact of large scale development projects, including public projects proposed in the regulated area; to make recommendations to the Competent Authority for grant of NOC for construction of residential/ commercial building in the regulated area of Centrally Protected Monuments/Sites.

The web portal of NMA has now been integrated with the online portal of local bodies of Delhi and Mumbai viz. NDMC, Municipal Corporation of Greater Mumbai (MCGM) and MCDs (South MCD, North MCD, East MCD) to facilitate single window clearance for construction on a common application form.

The applicant needs to fill up a single form which will be sent to the concerned agencies by the local body, from whom No Objection Certificate (NOC) is required. NMA on its part will communicate its decision to the local body within six working day, bringing down the time limit from ninety days, as prescribed in Ancient Monuments and Archeological Sites and Remains (AMASR) Act.

STATE

Demand for resumption of regular flights from Shimla

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imachal Pradesh Tourism Development Board has asked the Centre to restart flights from Shimla airport at the earliest, keeping in view the importance ofthe capital as an international tourist destination. In a meeting with Union Minister of State for Tourism Mahesh Sharma, tourism board’s Vice Chairman, Vijay Singh Mankotia said flights to Shimla airport had been suspended for the past three years, causing inconvenience to visitors.

He told the Union Minister that Himachal Pradesh had prepared a plan for promoting eco, adventure, religious and cultural tourism and there was a need to strengthen air services to the state to attract more tourists. He also requested that flights to two other airports at Gaggal and Bhuntar be made regular, an official release here said.

14 May 2016

STATE

Rajasthan all set to market tourism products aggressively Rajasthan Government is planning to organise a Domestic Travel Mart on the lines of GITB for domestic buyers, sellers and tour operators by August this year.

Jaikishan Kaparwan

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n an attempt to attract more travellers to the state of Rajasthan the government of the state is all set to market its tourism products in a big way across the globe, it was revealed by Rajasthan Chief Minister, Vasundhara Raje at the outset of GITB 2016 held in Jaipur recently.

While addressing the gathering, she informed that the State has launched a multi-modal and multi lingual tourism campaign. “The campaign aims in bringing increasingly more domestic and foreign tourists to Rajasthan. New circuits and new events are being added to add value to the experience of the tourists,” she added.

She said that in the build up to the Resurgent Rajasthan Partnership Summit and thereafter the Tourism Department has signed 220 MoUs worth more than Rs.10,000 Crores for setting up new tourism units.

“Once they come on ground they will provide employment to 40,000 persons”, she said.

The Tourism Secretary, Government of India, Vinod Zutshi in his key note

address said that India has registered a growth of 13 percent in domestic tourism in 2015 and the Government aims to increase it to 15 percent by 2018.He added that the Union Ministry is promoting a number of schemes in Rajasthan the Desert Circuit for Rs 65 crore and Ajmer- Pushkar project for Rs 40 crore. Similarly, the State will stand to benefit by way of spiritual and pan India thematic circuits like Buddhism, Ramayana and Krishna being developed by the Union Tourism Ministry.

Addressing the gathering, Principal Secretary, Tourism, Government of Rajasthan, Shailendra Agarwal said that the Rajasthan Government is planning to organise a Domestic Travel Mart on the lines of GITB for domestic buyers, sellers and tour operators by August.

The vote of thanks was given by CoChairman FICCI, Tourism Committee and Managing Director, Travel Corporation (I) Ltd., Dipak Deva. During the inaugural session a Knowledge Paper entitled ‘Indian Inbound – Tapping the Power packed Growth Engine’ was also released by Chief Minister.

Vasundhara Raje Chief Minister Rajasthan

It has been prepared by FICCI and MRSS. This international mart has been organised by the Department of Tourism, Government of Rajasthan, the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India and Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI). It is supported by leading national and regional associations like Hotel & Restaurant Association of Rajasthan (HRAR), Indian Heritage Hotels Association (IHHA) and Rajasthan Association of Tour Operators (RATO).

Maharashtra Tourism introduces Mumbai Darshan tours on AC buses WH Desk

The Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC) in cooperation with BEST (Brihanmumbai Electricity Supply and Transport Undertaking) has introduced AC buses to conduct guided tours of Mumbai. The eight-hour long tour will cover roughly 48 km and over 43 locations.

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he first leg will cover South Mumbai sites including Mani Bhavan, Nehru Planetarium, Wankhede, Mantralaya, etc. The second half will give tourists a glimpse of famous landmarks of the western suburbs including Mehboob Studios, Mount Mary Church, among others. The buses will make stops at prominent sites such as the Siddhivinayak Temple, Mani Bhavan, Taraporewala Aquarium, Jijamata Udyan, Kamla Nehru Park and terminate at the Gateway of India. At all sites, those on the bus will get special entry and will not have to stand in queue. The tour also includes a special screening of shows on the city at Nehru Science Centre’s Dome theatre.

will enlighten tourists about the history of the landmarks. The fare for these tours is expected to be around INR 500 per person, at par with private operators. MTDC officials are also looking to provide lunch and snacks, which will be exclusive of the base fare. At first, the tours will happen once a week and frequency will increase as per demand.

Satish Soni, Joint MD, MTDC, said, “The idea to offer a tour which is inclusive of everything. At present we will be deploying five buses in each tour. Once that’s under way, more buses will be pressed into service.”

The AC buses will be furnished with a television screen and have a guide who

May 2016 15

AVIATION

Ethiopian introduces ‘Upgrade to Cloud Nine’ Ethiopian Airlines offers a great new programme that will give passengers an option to bid for an upgrade from Economy Class to Cloud Nine (Business class). This offer is now available for selected routes on Ethiopian Airlines.

WH Desk

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sing ‘Upgrade to Cloud Nine’ customers who have a valid Ethiopian Economy class ticket can make an individual bid for an upgrade to Business Class. Passengers who win the bid will be able to enjoy the benefits of our Cloud Nine services on selected routes. And if the passengers are not successful in their bid, then they will retain their economy class ticket.

Eligible passengers who have booked an Economy Class ticket will receive an email about seven days prior to their trip inviting them to submit an offer. Passengers can also submit an offer by going to ‘Book’ on www.ethiopianairlines.com and selecting

‘Upgrade to Cloud Nine’. If their flight qualifies, they will be directed to the Upgrade to Cloud Nine page, where an upgrade bid can be placed. Bids can be edited and retracted up to 50 hours before the scheduled departure time of the flight.

After that, the bid becomes binding.

Prior to the flight departure, Ethiopian Airlines will select the passengers to be upgraded to Cloud Nine. Selection criteria will take into account the bid amount, original ticket price as well as other criteria including the amount of seats available in Cloud Nine and the number of bids that have already been placed.

All passengers that have placed a bid will receive an email notification within 24 hours prior to departure informing them whether or not the bid has been accepted. If their bid is accepted, the credit card on file will be charged with the corresponding amount and they will also receive an updated e-ticket. If the bid is not accepted, passengers will fly in Economy Class as planned and will not incur any additional cost.

Boeing delivers record number of airplanes to Turkish Airlines In total, the carrier will take delivery of six 777-300ERs and 20 NextGeneration 737-800s in 2016.

WH Desk

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urkish Airlines and Boeing share a long history that goes back to 1945, with the arrival of the airline’s first DC-3/C-47 airliners. Turkish Airlines entered the jet age in the late 1960s, when the airline began operating DC-9, DC-10 and Boeing 707 airplanes.

Over the years, Turkish carriers have also flown the Boeing 727, 757, MD-80 and the most modern 737 and 777 airplanes. Turkish Technic, a prominent subsidiary of the airline, is a world-class maintenance center for Boeing 737 airplanes, with certifications from regulatory authorities throughout the region and beyond.

“Turkish Airlines is one of the world’s ascendant airlines and an established global network carrier. It has achieved this through various significant investments as maden in its fleet which now stands at over

16 May 2016

310 and growing,” said Ahmet Bolat, Chief Investment and Technology Officer, Turkish Airlines.

“The delivery of a further 26 Boeing aircraft this year, which form a substantial part of our long-haul and short-haul fleets, are integral to Turkish’s continued growth and we look forward to introducing the new planes on our domestic and international network.”

The Next-Generation 737’s market success has been confirmed by investors who consistently rank it as one of the most preferred single-aisle airplanes due to its wide market base, superior efficiency and lowest operating costs in its class. To date, more than 7,000 Next-Generation 737s have been ordered by the world’s leading airlines.

Mumbai gets luxury with Etihad Airways’ first Airbus A380 Etihad Airways has introduced Mumbai to its Airbus A380 network with the launch of daily scheduled flights featuring its award-winning ‘The Residence’ world’s first threeroom suite on a commercial airliner.

WH Desk

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light EY204 from Abu Dhabi landed at Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport in Mumbai on May 1st 2016 on the celebrated occasion of Maharashtra Day, the 56th anniversary of the state’s formation.

Mumbai becomes the airline’s fourth A380 destination following London Heathrow, Sydney and New York, with Melbourne set to join on June 1st.

With the aircraft upgrade, Etihad Airways is able to offer an all-A380 daily service in both directions between Mumbai and New York JFK International with a seamless connection over Abu Dhabi, along with the unique USA customs border protection which enables guests to pre-clear US customs in Abu Dhabi. The service is operated as a codeshare flight with Etihad Airways’ strategic Indian partner Jet Airways.

James Hogan, Etihad Airways President and Chief Executive Officer, said, “Bringing our flagship product to India with additional seat capacity demonstrates our overwhelming undertaking to one of the world’s fastest growing economies, helping fulfill growing demand and meeting travellers’ expectations for superior products and services. Key feeder markets to and from Europe, North America and the Middle East will also benefit greatly from the upgraded service.”

“Our commitment to India is unequivocal, having built a robust and successful route network with our own dedicated services and those of our partner Jet Airways which, combined, give us 20 per cent market share, making us the largest contributors of passenger traffic to and from India, bigger than any other international airline,” he added.

AVIATION

Air India creates history to fly world’s first all-women operated longest flight WH Desk

On this special flight Ashwini Lohani, CMD Air India said “It will be historic flight and longest to be operated by all women crew. The airline has immense respect for women and it would be a symbol of women empowerment.

Captain Kshamata Bajpayee said, “I feel truly blessed to be part of the Air India family. Only when you wish can you be granted that wish. Only when you dream can that dream come true.”

WH Desk

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o commemorate International Women’s Day, National Carrier Air India made history with the world’s longest all-women operated and supported flight on one of world’s Non Stop route Delhi- San Francisco. Close to 17 hrs, the flight AI 173 departed from Delhi on March 6th at 0235 Hrs and land San Francisco at 0600 Hrs. The historic flight was under the command of Captain Kshamta Bajpayee and Captain Shubhangi Singh along with First Officers Captain Ramya Kirti Gupta and Captain Amrit Namdhari. On this momentous occasion the operating crew and support staff was felicitated by the chief guest Shovana Narayan the famous Kathak danseuses.

IndiGo introduces 14 new flights

Air India celebrates International Women’s Day every year by deploying women crew on its select international and domestic routes.

This year for the first time, on the world’s longest nonstop flight the entire flight operations from Cockpit Crew to Cabin crew, Check-In staff, Doctor, Customer Care Staff, ATC and the entire ground handling from operator to technician, Engineer and flight dispatcher and trimmer will be handled by women.

Air India’s mission to contribute its prowess to make women self-reliant, forms a core facet of the national carrier’s corporate responsibility towards its women employees and reflects the “Truly Indian” tradition of showing respect to women. The airline has around 3765 women employees, including women pilots, cabin crew, engineers, technicians, doctors, security personnel and executives.

he IndiGo airline has enhanced its customer experience in the domestic market with the launch of fourteen new flights across key cities in India. From May 01, 2016, the airline commenced new flights connecting Bengaluru to Ahmedabad, Kolkata to Hyderabad, Bengaluru to Jaipur and Chennai to Kochi. Additionally, the airline connected Kochi to Chennai and Jaipur to Bengaluru, from May 02, 2016.

Furthermore, with effect from May 06, 2016, IndiGo added increased frequencies between Delhi to Srinagar and Delhi to Jaipur.

Both corporate and leisure travellers will now have the opportunity to experience the matchless on-time performance that IndiGo is synonymous with. With 759 flights connecting 40 destinations, these new flights will further consolidate IndiGo’s position as the fastest growing airline in India.

Speaking on the launch of the new flights schedule, Aditya Ghosh, President IndiGo said, “The increased flow of traffic to and from these cities gave us a great opportunity to offer passengers more chances to experience the hassle-free and on-time performance that IndiGo has become synonymous with. We are confident that these flights will prove to be just as popular and convenient to our passengers.”

Lufthansa organises Startup Expo The Expo brought together startups, mentors, investors, industry partners and government supported by a corporate in partnership with The Indus Entrepreneurs (TiE) a leading entrepreneurial organisation.

WH Desk

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ufthansa in partnership with The Indus Entrepreneurs organised the Startup Expo, the largest initiative of its kind. The Startup Expo was visited by approximately 10,000 people and provided an opportunity to 200 aspiring entrepreneurs to showcase their ventures, attend insightful workshops, expert talks, mentoring sessions. The participating startups also received an opportunity to interact with 30 investment decision makers in investor zones where 700 meetings between the investors and startups took place.

It also gave them an opportunity to network with some of the top business experts like Sanjeev Bikhchandani – Vice Chairman, Naukri.com, Deep Kalra - Founder and Group CEO, Make My Trip India, Alok Mittal – Founder, Indifi Technologies, O. P. Manchanda - CEO, Dr. Lal Path Labs, and more, besides investors, VCs, accelerators, industry associations, service organizations and corporates to be a successful entrepreneurs.

The Startup Expo received a widespread support and participation from organisations such as Department of Industrial Policy & Promotion (DIPP), Ministry of Commerce & Industry, GOI, Department of Science & Technology, Nasscom, CII, PHD Chambers, NEN, Indian Angel Network, SheTheStory, Yourstory, LetsVenture, SIDBI, PadUp Ventures, IvyCamp, AWS, CIIE, Microsoft Ventures etc.

Wolfgang Will, Director, South Asia,

Lufthansa Passenger Airlines, said, “The Startup Expo pays tribute to the entrepreneurial energy in India driving one of the largest startup systems in the world.

It is another link in Lufthansa Runway to Success, which has grown over the past four years into one of the biggest SME platforms in the country. We are delighted with the overwhelming response to the initiative, an affirmation of the fact that India is very close to our heart and that as a brand we are More Indian than you think.”

May 2016 17

18 May 2016

Compiled by WH Desk

Stand at the Tower of Wagers, where wealthy ship owners would gather in May to scan the horizons, awaiting the return of the trading fleet from East Africa, and bet on whose would arrive first. If you simply want a place sit at the ocean, let the salty breeze wash over you, and swim in the warm waters of the Arabian Sea, Mandvi’s several quiet, clean beaches with flamingos and other migrant birds will surely do the trick.

MANDVI The Historical Port Town

May 2016 19

NEED TO KNOW

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f you don’t feel ready to embark on a seabound voyage anytime soon, visiting a historical port town may at least bring you closer to understanding the way people and goods used to move around the planet and 95 percent of world trade still does.

Here in Mandvi, the principal port of Kutch and of Gujarat for hundreds of years until the rise of Mumbai, visit the shipbuilding yards along the Rukmavati River where wooden ships are still built by hand. Stand at the Tower of Wagers, where wealthy ship owners would gather in May to scan the horizons, awaiting the return of the trading fleet from East Africa, and bet on whose would arrive first.

Mandvi was founded as a port town by the Khengarji, the king of Kutch, in 1574. The first temple to be built was the Sundarwar temple, followed by the Jama Masjid in 1603, the Lakshminarayan Temple in 1607, the Kajivali Mosque in 1608 and the Rameshwar Temple in 1627. For all of this

to have been built in the first 50 years of the town’s existence is a clear indicator of its importance to the kingdom.

Indeed, at its peak, Mandvi’s wealth easily surpassed that of the capital at Bhuj, and it was only after ships grew too large for its harbor and began to prefer Mumbai that Mandvi started fading from the scene.

For 400 years, the shipbuilding industry has been the center of life in Mandvi. It was once the principal port of Kutch and of Gujarat.

At its peak, exports were said to outnumber imports fourfold, and their revenue reflected that. Ships came and went from East Africa, the Persian Gulf, the Malabar Coast (now called Kerala, in south India), and SouthEast Asia. During Rao Godiji’s reign in the 1760’s, he built and maintained a fleet of 400 ships, one that sailed as far as England and returned. The city used to have 8 m. fortified walls around it, but only small portions remain.

Mandvi Ship Building Yard

Vijay Vilas Palace

20 May 2016

In 1929 the Vijay Vilas palace was built by Rao Vijayrajji, and is maintained in excellent condition today. The British Political Agent based in Bhuj had summer quarters at Mandvi, and the British cemetery attests to the extended presence of the British in the area.

As ships grew larger and Mumbai became an ever-more-powerful center of commerce, fewer and fewer vessels would moor at Mandvi, preferring Mumbai or Surat.

Today, with a harbor far too small for modern supersized shipping operations, it is no longer a major shipping port, but shipbuilding is still done by hand on the banks of the Rukmavati River.

THINGS TO DO IN MANDVI Most things in Mandvi revolve around the water. A visit to the beach, exploring the shipbuilding area, a walk along the river; all these are indispensable. But the town is

NEED TO KNOW Darya Pir, the patron saint of Kutchi fisherpeople, arrived here from Bukhara (now in Uzbekistan) in 1660. He was well-loved by the locals, introduced them to Islam, and they built the shrine that bears his name here when he died; this site still receives visitors of many religious backgrounds seeking blessings. The Mughal Emperor built a gate in his honor, which still stands and is known today as the Mughal Gate. Interestingly, the walls of the old city fortifications have a religious origin, as they were dragged from the ruins of the Jain city of Bhadreshwar.

Mandvi Beach

also easily explored on foot, and it is well worth wandering the narrow streets to check out the mix of old architecture. Many wealthy barons during the city’s heyday had flamboyant houses built, with lots of European influence; it is not uncommon to see carved angels, or stained-glass windows. The many markets, where all kinds of goods can be found, from bandhani textiles to tasty fresh produce, should not be missed. Specific points of interest are as follows:

BEACHES

WEEKEND GET-AWAYS

India and theSindh province of Pakistan. It is about 7,505.22 square kilometres in size and is reputed to be the largest salt desert in the world. This area has been inhabited by the Kutchi people.

MUNDRA: Another port town on the south coast of Kutch, Mundra was well-known for salt and spice trading in the past and now more for tie-dye and block-print textiles.

The harbor is virtually unusable today, and only small local fishing craft navigate its silted waterways up the river. The Mahadev temple has memorials to famous Mundra sailors, including some who advised the Sultan of Zanzibar and guided Vasco da Gama to India.

Bhuj: Bhuj connects you to a range of civilizations and important events in South Asian history through prehistoric archaeological finds, remnants of the Indus Valley Civilization (Harappans), places associated with the Mahabharata and Alexander the Great’s march into India and tombs, palaces and other buildings from the rule of the Naga chiefs, the Jadeja Rajputs, the Gujarat Sultans and the British Raj. Great Rann of Kutch: The Great Rann of Kutch is a seasonal salt marsh located in the Thar Desert in the Kutch District of Gujarat,

The Great Rann of Kutch, along with the Little Rann of Kutch and the Banni grasslands on its southern edge, is situated in the district of Kutch and comprises some 30,000 square kilometres between the Gulf of Kutch and the mouth of the Indus River in southern Pakistan. The marsh can be accessed from the village of Kharaghoda in Surendranagar District.

Dholavira: Dholavira is the larger of the two most remarkable excavations of the Indus Valley Civilization or Harappan culture, dating back to 4500 years ago.

While the other site, Lothal, is more exhaustively educated and easier to reach, a visit to Lothal only complements, rather than replaces, a visit to Dholavira.

PINGLESHWAR: Pingleshwar Beach lies close to Mandvi Kutch and is a wonderful attraction and tourist location. This golden sandy beach of Kutch is worth a visit and is not a frequently visited tourist beach. So you can truly enjoy moments of bliss with your family and friends. Lying about seventeen kilometers from the Coastal NH 8A, it also has proximity to the bird sanctuary of Nalia.

The beach is also very popular as a wetland and also beautiful wind farms wherein wind energy is trapped. It also attracts a plethora of migratory birds that come here.

HERITAGE VIJAY VILAS PALACE: Wander around the Vijay Vilas Palace and marvel at the items brought from far-off ports, and the architecture itself that shows a global awareness in its mixture of styles. Or recreate your favorite scene from Lagaan or Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam, both of which have scenes filmed at the palace.

ACCOMMODATION Sharma Resort Kuchhch Gandhidham, Kutch T: 2836 - 231823/24/2 E: info@sharmaresort.com W: bookings@sharmaresorts.com City The Village Resort Madhapar, Bhuj-Kutch, T: +91 2832 291555 M: 9099912672 E: contact@citythevillage.com W: http://www.citythevillage.com/

Dholavira

May 2016 21

NTO

TAT anticipates unprecedented growth; focuses on tier II cities & high-end luxury segments Having received more than one million tourists from India last year, the Tourism Authority of Thailand is very aggressive to receive record breaking numbers from this part of the world in the year ahead.

To sustain this momentum, and reinvigorate the traveller visiting the country, TAT is looking for new avenues to add more traffic to the existing number followed by new activities to engage them. Isra Stapanaseth, Director TAT Delhi reveals his plans and strategy for the year 2017 in an exclusive conversation with Whereabouts.

Excerpts: Rajesh Tiwari

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epeat visitors are the strength of Thailand, at an average the country receives more than 56 percent repeat traveller and 46 percent new comers. According to TAT the repeat clientele shows the comfort level in Thailand be it cuisine, hospitality, tourist attractions or shopping; attract traveller to visit the country again and again. etc. As per the trends travellers from India like to see new destination on every trip.

“We have noticed that the tier two cities have a vast potential of outbound tourism as the traffic from here is just picking up. Taking an advantage of our popularity we can attract a large chunk of business from these cities. So taking a step further in this direction we have rolled out the educational seminars for travel agents and campaigns for consumers,” informed Stapanaseth. Since TAT has very strong presence in metros, the country is concentrating on tier two cities like Ludhiana, Chandigarh, Jaipur, Lucknow, Raipur, Bhubaneshwar and Guwahati etc.

Apart from this, TAT has floated a number of events and activities to engage travellers. The country is already very popular among the wedding planners, incentives groups, family or solo travellers, however adding more to this TAT has launched several new activities such as golf, diving, self drive etc. that is expected to create more interest among the travellers.

22 May 2016

Isra Stapanaseth, Director,TAT Delhi Keeping in mind the increasing interest for golf activities TAT has appointed Vani Kapoor as the Brand Ambassador for Golf Tourism in January this year. According to him this is one of the growing segments and lot of groups started travelling to get engage in this activity for three to four nights on an average. “Earlier it used to be the Japanese groups who used to come to Thailand to play golf on weekends, but the Indians are picking up now, and we are getting this trend from India as well,” reveals Stapanaseth.

Budget traveller is the core segment travelling to the Thailand however it has been felt that high-end luxury travel can generate impressive revenue to the country’s economy. TAT is very optimistic to attract a large number of high-end travellers as the country boasts a number of high-end luxury resorts, shopping malls, restaurants and fine dining. “We have seen the purchasing power of Indian traveller has gone up and to cater this segment of travellers we have world renowned hotels, resorts, shopping centres and fine dining restaurants such as Nahm (Thai), Gaggan (Modern Indian), Zuma (Japanese) which has become a status symbol at present,” added Stapanaseth.

According to him, THAI cuisine is very popular world across and TAT is promoting this activity in a big way. “I am happy to share with you that we are getting a very good response from India. This is becoming one of the must do activity for women apart from shopping. We have a large number of schools and learning centres across the country,” informed.

NTO August-The Lady’s Month

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n an attempt to attract the women traveller, TAT has planned to dedicate the month of August to the Lady Traveller. This is a very special initiative taken by the Tourism Authority of Thailand to celebrate Her Majesty Queen Sirikit’s 84th birthday. August 2016 has been designed as a ‘Lady’s Month’ to encourage the growth of the global female traveller segment in conjunct with the strategy to promote Thailand as a Quality Leisure Destination.

The scheduled activities for ‘Lady’s Month’ are Lady Golf Challenge, Lady Celebrities in Thailand, Lady Photo Contest, Lady in Thai Fabrics Contest, Lady Bloggers’ Journey, and the introduction of the app: ‘Lady Journey’. Various other special arrangements are being provided to female travellers in this month; such as, Lady Immigration Lanes, Lady Parking and Lady Airfare.

“We are launching big projects for the month of August. A special campaign will attract international female travellers to enjoy the kingdom’s many attractions with a wide range of activities, special offers, discounts and privileges from the variety of products and services and events aimed at women,” informed Stapanaseth.

Pink carpet is being rolled-out to receive Lady Traveller in a very special way

“We are inviting ladies for a must visit to Thailand in the coming August. They will be treated very especially from immigration to across the country. We have a lot of activity for this month along with the golf as one of its activity. Since we have appointed Vani Kapoor as our Golf Ambassador so we are inviting all the ladies to grab this opportunity of playing golf with Vani Kapoor,” says Stapanaseth.

Increasingly women are coming to Thailand in groups or as solo travellers and expect to find activities and attractions geared to their needs. So, this campaign will broaden their recognition on how Thailand can cater for a great experience to female travellers like nowhere else.

Research has shown that women travellers enjoy visiting the beach, benefitting from Thailand’s amazing spa opportunities and trying Thai food, but they are perhaps more concerned with safety and privacy than male travellers. With this in mind, TAT is joining forces with airlines, hotels, resorts, spas and tour operators to arrange various activities as well as offer special discounts and privileges throughout the month of August.

“In an attempt to make it a grand success TAT is banking high on promotional activities. The beautifully designed promotional concepts will be highlighted in five different ways Beautiful Look, Beautiful Shape, Beautiful Mind, Beautiful Retreat and Beautiful Experience, informed Stapanaseth.

Amazing Thailand Grand Sale 2016 The annual Amazing Thailand Grand Sale 2016 has been scheduled on 15 June to 15 August, 2016. Stay tuned for more details. In the meantime, enjoy a teaser commercial of the event that highlights some of the many shopping and holidaying experiences in Thailand.

May 2016 23

JOR D AN A NON STOP THRILL RIDE

From the haunting, primeval starkness of Wadi Rum to the teeming centre of urban Amman, from the majestic ruins of bygone civilisations to the timeless splendour of the Dead Sea, Jordan is unveiled as a unique destination offering breathtaking and mysterious sights, high standard accommodations, exquisite cuisine and countless activities that can provide visitors with inspiration, motivation, and rejuvenation. In this edition Whereabouts brings more on this.

24 May 2016

May 2016 25

WHEREABOUTS KNOW THE CAPITAL-AMMAN Amman, the capital of Jordan is a fascinating city of contrasts; a unique blend of old and new, ideally situated on a hilly area between the desert and the fertile Jordan Valley.

In the commercial heart of the city, ultramodern buildings, hotels, smart restaurants, art galleries and boutiques rub shoulders comfortably with traditional coffee shops and tiny artisans’ workshops. Everywhere there is evidence of the city’s much older past.

Due to the city’s modern-day prosperity and temperate climate, almost half of Jordan’s population is concentrated in the Amman area. The residential suburbs consist of mainly tree-lined streets and avenues flanked by elegant, almost uniformly white houses in accordance with a municipal law, which states that all buildings must be faced with local stone. The downtown area is much older and more traditional with smaller businesses producing and selling everything from fabulous jewellery to everyday household items. The people of Amman are multi-cultural, multi-denominational, welleducated and extremely hospitable. They welcome visitors and take pride in showing them around their fascinating and vibrant city.

PLACES TO VISIT WADI RUM This is a stupendous, timeless place, virtually untouched by humanity and its destructive forces. Here, it is the weather and winds that have carved the imposing, towering skyscrapers, so elegantly described by T.E. Lawrence as vast, echoing and God-like a maze of monolithic rockscapes rise up from the desert floor to heights of 1,750m creating a natural challenge for serious mountaineers. Hikers can enjoy the tranquility of the boundless empty spaces and explore the canyons and water holes to discover 4000-year-old rock drawings and the many other spectacular treasures this vast wilderness holds in store.

26 May 2016

Once transport has been arranged, there are various excursions available for example; a trip to Burdah Rock Bridge, the highest in Wadi Rum, via the Seven Pillars of Wisdom and many other interesting sights, is a full day by car or an overnight trip by camel.

PETRA The giant red mountains and vast mausoleums of a departed race have nothing in common with modern civilisation, and ask nothing of it except to be appreciated at their true value as one of the greatest wonders ever wrought by nature and man. Although, much has been written about Petra, nothing really prepares you for this amazing place.

It has to be seen to be believed.

Petra, the world wonder is without a doubt Jordan’s most valuable treasure and greatest tourist attraction. It is a vast, unique city, carved into the sheer rock face by the Nabataeans, an industrious Arab people who settled here more than 2000 years ago, turning it into an important junction for the silk, spice and other trade routes that linked China, India and southern Arabia with Egypt, Syria, Greece and Rome.

DEAD SEA Without a doubt the world’s most amazing place, the Jordan Rift Valley is a dramatic, beautiful landscape, which at the Dead Sea, is over 400m (1,312 ft.) below sea level. The lowest point on the face of the earth, this vast stretch of water receives a number of incoming rivers, including the River Jordan.

Once the waters reach the Dead Sea they are land-locked and have nowhere to go, so they evaporate, leaving behind a dense, rich, cocktail of salts and minerals that supply industry, agriculture and medicine with some of its finest products.

JERASH A close second to Petra on the list of favourite destinations in Jordan is the ancient city of Jerash, which boasts an unbroken chain of human occupation dating back more than 6,500 years. Jerash lies on a plain surrounded by hilly wooded areas and fertile basins. Conquered by General Pompey in 63 BC, it came under Roman rule and was one of the ten great Roman cities of the Decapolis League.

ACTIVITIES IN JORDAN LEISURE AND WELLNESS The popularity of the spa vacation has increased worldwide as many people are adopting healthier lifestyles. For this reason, Jordan has complimented its natural therapeutic sites with first class resorts offering a diverse range of amenities. At 410m below sea level, the Dead Sea is the lowest place on earth. Jordan’s Dead Sea coast is one of the most spectacular natural and spiritual landscapes in the world. The main attraction of the Dead Sea is of course the soothing, abnormally salty water itself.

A trip to the Dead Sea would not be complete without a visit to one of the first class health spa facilities of the luxury hotels. Here the visitor can enjoy year-round a massage, Dead Sea mud bath, use the excellent fitness facilities, or just spend the day relaxing on their beautiful private beaches.

FUN AND ADVENTURE Jordan’s moderate year round climate; a base of powerful, unique cultural attractions such as Petra, Jerash, Bethany Beyond the Jordan the early Islamic Desert Castles and, a wide range of very different, often stunning natural environments that are

WHEREABOUTS Jordanian cuisine shares many of the characteristics of Middle Eastern cooking but the inclusion of freshly made, local yoghurt and cheese adds a twist to the menu. Aubergines, chickpeas, lentils and beans turn up in many of the dishes and rice and khoubs (flat Arabic bread) are staples.

easily accessible and virtually undiscovered.

Quality hotels and restaurants throughout the country mean that thrill-seekers who want to pamper themselves in between adventure treks have a wide range of facilities to choose from.

Nature enthusiasts have many options in Jordan. The vast, silent drama of Wadi Rum, the forested hills of central Jordan, or the plunging Jordan Rift Valley that includes the Dead Sea - the lowest spot on earth at 410m below sea level. The Red Sea resort of Aqaba is always warm, balmy, and enticing for divers and other watersports enthusiasts.

Aqaba offers a full range of facilities for bungee jumping, speedboating, scuba diving, snorkelling, sailing, fishing, swimming, water skiing, wind surfing, or simply loafing and sunning in the warm crystal-clear waters of the Red Sea. SHOPPING IN JORDAN Wherever you go in Jordan you will find plenty of opportunities to shop. For visitors there is a wide range of locally made handicrafts and other goods available at all the popular sites, as well as within the boutiques of the leading hotels and at the various visitors’ centres. There you will find hand-woven rugs and cushions, beautifully embroidered items and clothing, traditional pottery, glassware, silver jewellery embedded with semi-precious stones, Bedouin knives, coffee pots, narghiles (hubble bubble), marquetry work, antiques and other artefacts. The list is endless and about as varied as you can imagine.

Take time to visit the souks in Jordan’s larger towns and cities. These are treasure troves for those seeking something a little bit out of the ordinary. Within the souks are also excellent gold and silver outlets, where some great bargains can be found. Also worth visiting are the busy market shops, especially for exotic spices, herbs and seasonings.

Both Amman and Aqaba offer sophisticated shops and boutiques selling the very latest fashions in jewellery, clothing, accessories, leather and electronic goods.

When in Amman, don’t forget to visit AlWakalat Street to find all European and North American brand stores lining the streets and offering their latest collections, as well as in the many malls available throughout the city. Also, Rainbow Street is a great tourist area, where many handicraft stores, coffee shops, and lounges overlook the paved lanes.

CUISINE Wherever you are in Jordan, you are never too far away from a conversation about food. Every meal in Jordan can turn into a multi-course feast where several different small dishes are served for a combination of flavors. Experience new flavors with a fresh palate in Jordan where the combination of spices and fresh ingredients tastes like nothing you have ever had before.

The spices that are used to make the flavors distinct have also been known to be traded through this region for hundreds of years.

It is these spices that are the signature of great Jordanian food.

The national dish of Jordan and the most distinctive Jordanian dish is the Mansaf - a traditional Jordanian dish made of lamb cooked in a sauce of fermented dried yogurt called Jameed and served with rice or bulgur. The Jordanian lemon and mint drink is refreshing and its desserts are par excellence – kanafeh with its butter cheesy sweetness to the delicious baklava – there is something for everyone in Jordan.

WEATHER Jordan boasts almost year-round sunshine with temperate, comfortable weather. Spring and autumn are fresh and crisp with rain being more common in the spring.

LANGUAGE The official language of Jordan is Arabic, but English is widely spoken especially in the cities. Many Jordanians have travelled, or have been educated abroad, so French, German, Italian and Spanish are also spoken, but to a lesser extent.

CURRENCY The local currency is the Jordanian Dinar; symbol JD, also pronounced as ‘Jaydee’.

There are 1, 5, 10, 20 and 50 JD notes.

The dinar is divided into 100 piasters (pronounced ‘pee-asters’) of 1000 fils. The fils is the unit most commonly used and you will usually see prices written as 4,750 (which is 4 JD and 750 fils).

ACCOMMODATION ÂÂRadisson Blu, Aqaba, Jordan: ÂÂIntercontinental Hotel, Aqaba, Jordan: ÂÂKempinski Hotel, Amman, Jordan: ÂÂMovenpick Resort & Spa (Petra): VISA REQUIREMENTS The Jordanian Government has waived visa fees for all non-restricted nationalities coming through Jordanian tour operators whether travelling individually or in groups.

The visa fee is waived on the condition that the traveller spends a minimum of two consecutive nights in Jordan. Certain nationalities require an entry visa to be obtained prior to travel. It is recommended that you check with the Jordanian diplomatic mission in your country prior to travel to ensure that you have all the necessary paperwork for travel.

May 2016 27

28 May 2016

NTO

In Conversation with

Steven Dixon I always enjoy visiting India; the colourful culture, friendly people and delicious food makes the country an absolute must for any traveller. Each time I leave India I want to return, says Steven Dixon, Regional Manager - South and South East Asia at Tourism New Zealand. In an exclusive conversation with Rajesh Tiwari he unfolds his expectations and plans for Indian market, and time spent in the country. Excerpts: How has the Indian market grown over the years, especially in 2015?

What is the anticipated growth from here in 2016?

We have seen a steady growth from the Indian market and believe that the destination holds great potential for outbound travel. The UNWTO predicts about 50 million Indians would travel overseas by 2020 and we aim to be part of this growth.

The Indian market is growing at 18.5 percent with 46,544 (YTD February 2016) arrivals to New Zealand. We expect to see a double digit growth from the market in the upcoming months.

Where does India stand in terms of In-bound tourism to New Zealand?

Which are the other growing markets from Asia Pacific region?

India is a part of the emerging markets segment for Tourism New Zealand. In terms of international travellers, our top contributors continue to be Australia, China, USA and UK. However, India is among the top 10 source markets for international arrivals to New Zealand.

Actor Sidharth Malhotra has been appointed as Brand Ambassador for New Zealand Tourism; what role he has to play in your branding activities?

Sidharth Malhotra is the first ever ambassador of Tourism New Zealand from the Indian market. Sidharth’s beliefs as a person and an influencer resonate very strongly with what Tourism New Zealand has to say to its target audience, which is

the independent professionals segment, from India. He is young, dynamic and ever enthusiastic to explore the unique offerings of New Zealand. After his 10 day visit to New Zealand, we unveiled our marketing campaign in India. We have more exciting activities lined up in the coming months.

How has been the response so far?

We have received a positive response from the Indian audience and Sidharth’s visit to New Zealand created many conversations among his fans and our target audience across market in India.

As per our internal brand study with our target audience in India, we have received a very strong positive response that confirms Sidharth Malhotra as a good choice for New Zealand’s tourism ambassador for India.

Sidharth has engaged well with Indian traveller due to his broad reach, likability and being perceived as a great fit for the New Zealand brand. Sidharth Malhotra also had a strong impact across our social media platforms tete-e-tete How has your Travel & Tourism journey been over the years?

Especially your time spent in India?

I always enjoy visiting India. The colourful culture, friendly people and delicious food makes the country an absolute must for any traveller. Each time I leave India I want to return.

How would you describe yourself?

I am adventurous, inquisitive and have a real passion for exploring and understanding different cultures. My parents would suggest I ask too many questions.

What were the key turning points of your professional side?

The move to Singapore in 2014 to take this new role with Tourism New Zealand has so far been the highlight or turning point in my career. To work with so many countries that are effectively so close in proximity but are completely dynamic is both very challenging but hugely rewarding. We have great regional teams whose passion is contagious.

Where have you travelled last/ recently with your family?

My wife and I recently visited Goa. We rented a motorbike and drove for three

hours up the coast stopping to sample as much of the local food along the way. It was the perfect way to explore a new place but I must admit I needed to concentrate (busy roads) and I have now mastered the use of the horn.

Do you have any favourite childhood travel memory?

We travelled a lot as a family and I think this is what shaped my curiosity to work in the tourism industry. But some of our best holidays were camping at Kaiteriteri Beach which is in the Able Tasman National Park of the South Island of New Zealand. We would go in the summer school holidays and spend a month camping, fishing, kayaking and walking in the national park. Freshly caught fish grilled on the BBQ never tasted so good.

Fav4 Destination (India/Overseas) Central Otago, New Zealand is where I grew up and despite not having lived there for 30 years I still consider it home. It boasts incredible landscapes and amazing seasons and some of the most beautiful lakes in the world. In India, I love both Mumbai and Delhi especially the friendly rivalry between the local.

Cuisines I love Indian food – especially for breakfast.

I could eat a Masala Dosa everyday! I also like Mexican and spicy Thai.

Hotel Hotel Bay of Many Coves in Marlborough Sounds New Zealand and the Imperial Hotel in New Delhi.

Airlines Any airline that allows me to have an aisle seat a good meal and a glass of New Zealand Pinot Noir.

May 2016 29

NTO

Maldives to Yas Island to open Warner Bros. organise four-city themed destination in Abu Dhabi roadshow & B2B WH Desk sessions in May WH Desk

T

he Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation is organising a four-city roadshow in Lucknow on 16 May; in Chandigarh on 17 May; in Pune on 19 May and in Hyderabad on 20 May in recognition of the outbound traffic from these cities and them being very strong contenders as major contributors to India’s travel community. These roadshows are also a part of the overall strategy of MMPRC for the India market for 2016.

These roadshows are a follow-up to the roadshows held in 2015 in the cities of tier-1 cities of India, New Delhi, Bangalore, Kolkata, Mumbai and Chennai which were met with resounding success.

Organised by the Maldives Marketing and PR Corporation (MMPRC), 5 representative partners from the tourism industry of Maldives will be participating at the roadshow. They are Dusit Thani, Sun Siyam Resorts, Adaaran Resorts, Lily Beach Resort and Spa and Travellers Street.

From January to December 2015, 52,368 Indians visited Maldives which is an increase of 14.9 percent compared to the year 2014. Maldives offers free visa on arrival for all nationalities which is a further boost for the Indian traveller.

L

ocated alongside the world’s first Ferrari branded theme park, Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, and the iconic Emirati themed mega water park, Yas Waterworld, Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi will help Yas Island take its annual visitor tally from 25million in 2015, to 30 million in 2018, reinforcing Yas Island’s leading position as home to ultimate leisure and entertainment experiences. Miral is developing Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi under license from Warner Bros. Consumer Products.

Situated on Yas Island, one of the world’s leading business, leisure and entertainment destinations, the development will include the only Warner Bros. branded hotel alongside the immersive theme park.

The first phase of the project, Warner Bros.

World Abu Dhabi, is set to open in 2018.

Construction is underway and rides are in production.

Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi will bring together stories and characters from the Studio’s unparalleled portfolio of DC Comics Super Heroes universe including Batman, Superman and Wonder Women as well as Warner Bros. Cartoons such as Bugs Bunny, Scooby-Doo and Tom and Jerry. Guests of all ages will be able to step inside Gotham City and Metropolis, and experience the cartoon worlds of Looney Tunes, Hanna-Barbera and more, all under one roof.

Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman, Miral, said, “It is incredibly exciting to announce that we are bringing the iconic Warner Bros. brand to Yas Island.

Miral’s investment in the Warner Bros.

World Abu Dhabi theme park is estimated at 1 billion dollars and is a milestone in the emirate’s journey to put Abu Dhabi on the global map and become one of the world’s leading tourist destinations.”

Kevin Tsujihara, Chairman and CEO, Warner Bros. Entertainment commented, “Warner Bros. has been entertaining audiences for more than 90 years with the world’s most-loved characters and franchises. Working with our partners at Miral, we’ll bring this expertise to Yas Island, one of the world’s leading entertainment destinations, to create a fully-interactive, innovative and unique experience that will allow fans of all ages to experience the most exciting aspects of Warner Bros. in a completely immersive environment.”

Travel to Jordan on Air Arabia with special summer fares starting at INR 28,356 WH Desk

A

ir Arabia has introduced special airfare for the summer holiday season from 13 Indian cities to Jordan. The cities Air Arabia is offering these special fares from are New Delhi, Bangalore, Mumbai, Nagpur, Goa, Jaipur, Thiruvanthapuram, Cochin, Coimbatore, Kozhikode, Hyderabad, Ahemdabad and Chennai.

SECTOR

MAY

JUNE

DEL-AMM-DEL

28356

28356

Delhi

BLR-AMM-BLR

32461

32461

Bangalore

BOM-AMM-BOM

30635

30635

Mumbai

NAG-AMM-NAG

28431

28431

Nagpur

“We have had an overwhelming response with the special fares which we introduced in April and the initial numbers have shown an extremely positive upswing. As Summer holidays are an important time for families to plan their trips abroad, and this year Jordan will become a preferred destination as the airfare being offered by Air Arabia will enable families and groups to plan a more pocket friendly holiday,” said Ashit Taneja, Country Manager, Jordan Tourism Board, India Office.

GOI-AMM-GOI

41674

45547

Goa

JAI-AMM-JAI

32954

36342

Jaipur

TRV-AMM-TRV

32188

32188

Thiruvanthapuram

COK-AMM-COK

36175

36175

Cochin

CJB-AMM-CJB

40589

40589

Coimbatore

CCJ-AMM-CCJ

43339

48180

Kozhikode

HYD-AMM-HYD

38298

38298

Hyderabad

Fly to Amman till June 30, 2016 and avail of special discounts.

The discounted fares are available on www.airarabia.com or can be sold by agents as well with immediate effect.

AMD-AMM-AMD

35138

37868

Ahmedabad

MAA-AMM-MAA

31227

31227

Chennai

30 May 2016

May 2016 31

HOSPITALITY

Radisson Blu Plaza launches Delhi Catering Company WH Desk

D

elhi Catering Company, an exclusive outdoor catering enterprise of Radisson Blu Plaza Delhi, brings to you an unforgettable warm legendary Indian Hospitality complimented with international class professional and hygienic standards.

The guest also gets a choice of food from any part of the Indian sub-continent or the World.

It’s not just the taste buds, the Delhi Catering Company creates for your guests an enchanting unforgettable experience which will become the talk in their social circles. The Delhi Catering Company’s professionalism, superb creativity and impeccable service offers an experience that will delight your guests.

A Team of experienced professionals which has an exceptional ability to create a perfect and memorable event by designing the decor, lighting , music and delectable menu to create a magical harmony to fulfill your dream for the occasion.

The ability of highly creative and professional Chefs to offer customised menu from a wide range of North, South or any Regional Indian Cuisine apart from the popular Chinese ,Thai, Lebanese, Mexican and Continental Cuisine along with the

DISCOUNT & OFFERS

Beat the heat this summer with alcoholic & non alcoholic chuskis

T ever popular Kababs ,Chats, Indian and Continental desserts with soft and hard beverages to suit the occasion and the palate.

To bring the same legendary dining experience that you have experienced at its award winning restaurants -The Great Kabab Factory and Neung Roi. The experience to cater to wide range of groups from a small gathering of 25 to more than 1000 in the privacy of your own home/ farmhouse or at a venue of your choice.

o beat the scorching summers The Long Bar at Hyatt Regency Gurgaon presents you the range of exotic alcoholic chuski. This will take you to the another level of freshness and excitement, so this summer take a dip in variety of shaved ice and pick your flavors from from Pinacolada Chuski, Kala Khatta Chuski with Vodka, Lemonee with gin and lemon juice and after burner with rum and crushed mint leaves.

WHERE: Long Bar, Hyatt Regency Gurgaon VALIDITY: Till 31st May, 2016 For more details contact at 0124 6181180 or E:- at kitchendistrict.hrgurgaon@hyatt.com

Europe’s first One&Only luxury resort to open in 2018 WH Desk

I

n a ceremony attended by the Prime Minister of Montenegro, other senior government ministers, and senior executives from One&Only Resorts and Portonovi parent company Azmont Investments, construction commenced on Europe’s first One&Only resort.

The luxury resort will be an essential part of Portonovi – a new 60 acre luxury lifestyle development being built on the picturesque shores of the Bay of Boka Kotorska in Montenegro. The first phase of the development is due to be completed in 2017 with One&Only Portonovi planned for opening in 2018.

One&Only Portonovi will boast approximately 120 luxurious guest rooms, suites and villas, dining and retail options,

32 May 2016

and a wellness and vitality centre in partnership with world-renowned wellness brand, Espace Chenot Health Wellness Spa, which will provide guests with an unrivalled destination wellness experience.

Redefining luxury in the region, One&Only Portonovi will set a new level of guest experience through the impeccable service and offering, and will showcase the beauty of Montenegro’s natural elements.

“Through a project like this, we ensure three goals will be achieved: employment in quality environments, dynamic economic growth for Montenegro, with the ultimate result being that Montenegro will become one of the most prestigious destinations in Europe,” commented Milo Djukanovic, Prime Minister of Montenegro.

One&Only Resorts also announced the appointment of established industry leader

Massimiliano Zanardi as General Manager, One&Only Portonovi in Montenegro, effective immediately. In his new role, Mr. Zanardi will be based in Montenegro and is responsible for developing the overall guest experience for the resort, as well as building the team and entire operation of One&Only Portonovi.

CHECK-IN

V Resort Black

The Signature Escapes for the Luxury Seeking Millennial

The BLACK collection has exclusive resorts all offering a distinct experience in scenic locations, away from the din of the city. Personalised attention, intense local experiences, plush accommodation, curated holiday, comfortable and customised stay, the resorts in this collection promise all of this.

WH Desk

V

Resorts announced the launch of ‘V Resorts Black’ their signature escapes with luxury properties with the launch of Queen Meadows Ranikhet, an eco-resort, with villas inspired by provincial homes that promise a pristine Kumaon experience. The stone and wood villas are made from old-world British barracks and have expansive views of the snow-capped Himalayan ranges.

To begin with, the collection will feature four properties, one each in Sariska, Ranikhet, Ranakpur and Pench, each providing a luxurious hideaway in pristine surroundings, along with authentic food & beverage experiences and impeccable service. From enchanting lakes, vineyard tours, quiet spas, interpretive wildlife to luminous turn-ofthe-century palaces, V Resorts invites you to experience distinctiveness with the ‘V Resorts Black’ collection of resorts.

The BLACK collection has exclusive resorts all offering a distinct experience in scenic locations, away from the din of the city. Personalised attention, intense local experiences, plush accommodation, curated holiday, comfortable and customised stay, the resorts in this collection promise all of this.

The properties are ingeniously designed to blend with the environment, the buildings aesthetically sculpted to fit the natural contours of the hills or plains. Some resorts are built using reclaimed wood and stone from old dilapidated British Era barracks,

while others are built around the forest areas to accommodate the existing foliage.

Each experience is curated to delight the guests from bush dinners by lanterns in the wildlife reserves, to breakfasts served on private decks overlooking a quiet stream.

The guests are escorted through their journey by a private butler, dedicated to serve them during the course of their stay.

The local chefs prepare food inspired by traditional cuisines Jungli Maas or a Rathathani Ker Sangri, Grilled Rainbow trout in Manali, Bhang ki chutney / Aloo ka gutka in Uttarakhand, Lobsters Kohlapuri

in Maharasthra and many more. Each meal can be experienced under the stars, or while picnicking amidst vineyards, pine forests and the like.

Entrenched within the concept of ‘local experiences’ the Black collection of resorts also houses beautifully crafted local products made by the village artisans – hand knit woolens from ‘Umang’- an all women’s initiative, beauty products from ‘SOS Organics’ and homemade jams, herbs and other delectable’s from V Resorts very own Old Forest.

May 2016 33

CRUISE

Tirun enhances cruise offerings targeted at Indian travellers WH Desk

T

irun is constantly on the lookout to offer Indian travellers more relevant cruise opportunities, keeping in mind their specific preferences. One such opportunity seized by the company recently is the magnificent Voyager of the Seas sailing from Singapore. The deployment is in perfect synchrony with the summer vacations in various parts of India and seeks to offer an easily accessible and affordable cruise holiday to Indian guests.

In this endeavour, Tirun has signed a marketing partnership with the Singapore Tourism Board as the first recipient of the enhanced Cruise Development Fund that supports travel partners for cruise charters from Singapore. The association allows the company to reach out to a larger consumer base looking to experience cruising in Southeast Asia.

The itineraries onboard the cruise ship, have been especially curated keeping Indian families in mind and range from threenight to eight-night sailings. Guests can cruise from Singapore to popular destinations such as Kuala Lumpur, Phuket, Bangkok, Hong Kong, Nha Trang in Vietnam, and more. They can enjoy iconic features onboard the cruise ship like the innovative ‘Flow Rider’ surf simulator, the onboard ice skating, rock climbing as well many other such activities, as they sail from one exotic South East Asian destination to another and take in the best of the resplendent culture of each port.

Ratna Chadha, Chief Executive, TIRUN said, “The charter of the Voyager of the Seas is an endeavor on our part to offer Indian cruisers an opportunity to embark on a cruise with extreme facility.

Sailing from Singapore is not only very easy; it’s also the most costeffective alternative. The itineraries onboard the cruise ship have been designed to give cruisers a perfect glimpse into the diversity and splendour of South East Asian culture while also offering them the added attraction of Indian food onboard.”

With 15 decks, 13 bars and lounges, 8 multi-cuisine restaurants, 5 engaging entertainment options and over 10 pools and whirlpools, the Voyager of the Seas truly stands out as an iconic cruise ship.

The first rock climbing wall and an ice skating rink on-board a cruise ship, breakfast and parades with your favourite DreamWorks characters, or a Tony award winning Broadway show after gourmet meals, the cruise ship offers the most delightful ways to spend a holiday at an all-inclusive cost.

Design your stay at Mandarin Oriental, Singapore

M

andarin Oriental, Singapore launches a truly personalised Design Your Stay room package, where guests can pick their preferred choice of accommodation, dining and spa experiences within the hotel.

Guests can choose between luxurious accommodations overlooking stunning views of the ocean, bay or city, accompanied with a dining credit of SGD 300. The credit allows guests to indulge in authentic

DISCOUNT & OFFERS

Cantonese cuisine at Cherry Garden, savour Italian classics at Dolce Vita by the pool, or enjoy a hearty feast of Melt Café’s international flavours.

Providing a sanctuary of tranquillity, The Spa at Mandarin Oriental, Singapore allows guests to further enhance their stay with a relaxing and therapeutic massage, such as the signature Oriental Essence, Oriental Bamboo, or uplifting Aroma Stone treatment.

Priced from SGD 1,350 per night, the Design Your Stay package includes: One night’s stay in Ocean View Room, Marina Bay View Room or Mandarin Room Daily buffet breakfast at Melt Café One-time SGD 300 dining credit to be used at Cherry Garden, Dolce Vita or Melt Café Choice of any 1 hour and 30 minutes body massage at the spa Valid for double occupancy, the package is available from 1 May 2016 to 31 March 2017. Please visit www.mandarinoriental.com, e-mail mosin-reservations@mohg.com or call +65 6885 3030 for room reservations or enquiries. Rates are subject to 10% service charge and 7% government tax.

34 May 2016

May 2016 35

FACT & FIGURES

Four apps for travellers to commute Since on demand travel apps become hit among budget backpackers there are four app for travellers to commute that you must know.

WH Desk

ORAHI: Orahi is a dynamic ride sharing system that lets you share car rides to office and back. It is a community-based system that enables rides with friends, colleagues, and neighbours .This system is safe to use, highly convenient, and very cost-effective.

oreign/domestic travellers are very excited to visit India and explore the enriched and diverse cultures of the country.

As it is said Atithi Devo Bhava India takes care of its guests and their needs and provides them with the affordable transportation to delve into India.

Orahi goes beyond simple carpooling because it is an open and non-restrictive system that features flexible timings, choice of cotravellers, cashless payments, women-only groups for travel, mobile alerts, fully verified members, zero entry/exit fee, a compulsion-free service, and upto 100% savings on fuel costs.

F

JUGNOO: If you find cabs and taxi expensive you can book a Jugnoo auto from the auto ride application. Jugnoo, a Chandigarh based company, was established in the year 2014. It has ventured into the industry as one of the leading auto-rickshaw aggregators and the mobile commerce company with 15000 people transacting per day, at a very nascent stage. It is a mobile app offering one of the largest networks of auto-rickshaws in India. It has more than 3300 autos empanelled under the brand at present.

Founded by Samar Singla and Chinmay Agarwal, the company is targeting the students, working professionals and masses that are dependent on public transport for their daily conveyance, Jugnoo envisions capturing every city in the country and anticipates an exponential growth, as it plans to venture into 40 new cities by the end of 2015.

REVV: An app that gets you a Car on Rent that you can drive yourself and that too at your doorstep. Revv is the easiest and most convenient option for all the ladies out there who want to get back home from office or vice-versa without keeping your safety at sake. To top it all, Revv also offers hourly rentals with unlimited kilometres. So, one can get a car at their doorstep without much hassles.

REDBUS: Redbus.in was founded in to 2006 and it became part of Ibibo Group in 2013 via a 100% acquisition. redBus.in is India’s Number One online bus ticketing platform both on mobile as well as desktop. The business owns three products – redBus , BOGDS, Seat Seller serving the fragmented bus industry in India. redBus is consumer facing travel brand enabling customers to buy tickets on internet, on mobile. BOGDS is a cloud solution built for bus operators. Thousands of bus operators in India use this platform.

SeatSeller is GDS for bus inventory distribution. Over 10,000 retail agents and 100+ corporates including the OTAs use SeatSeller to sell bus tickets to their customers. redBus been has been awarded the ‘mBillionth South Asia’ award and the ‘Global Mobile Innovation in Travel Award’ by Eyefortravel in March, 2014. It also won the Business Standard Annual Award for ‘The Most Innovative Company of 2013’ earlier this year.

36 May 2016

May 2016 37

APPOINTMENT & EVENTS INTERNATIONAL Thailand Travel Mart + June 8 - 10 2016 Chiang Mai, Thailand PATA Travel Mart September 7 – 9, 2016 Jakarta, Indonesia JATA Tourism EXPO Japan September 22 – 25, 2016 Tokyo, Japan

Sachin Malhotra General Manager Hotel Grand Mercure, Mysuru

Sachin brings with him 15 years of experience in the hospitality industry with specialisation in hotel operations. He has an avid interest in Food and Beverage.

Prior to this appointment, Sachin worked with Mercure Lavasa and Lavasa International Convention Centre as Hotel Manager and has successfully held executive positions across AccorHotels properties for over six years. He holds a diploma in Business Administration & Marketing and holds The India Leadership Development Program (ILDP) certificate by Accor Hotels.

Siddharth Sathe Hotel Manager Westin Gurgaon, New Delhi

With over eight years of work experience in the hospitality industry, his key expertise lies in maintaining excellent guest relations along with maximising employee productivity and improving operational efficiencies. In his new role with Westin, Siddharth will actively lead the operational activities and will cater to various industrial segments of Delhi NCR and other markets. He will be supervising the growth and implementation of operational plans as well as programs to ensure optimum guest satisfaction.

HICAP October 19 – 21, 2016 Hong Kong

Chef Surjan Singh Jolly Director of F & B JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar

With over 26 years of experience in the industry, he brings to the table, his expertise in fast paced environment and high volume operations with multiple styles of service. His recent achievements after serving two decades in the hospitality industry include being the Guest Chef on the world renowned reality television show on Star Plus, Junior MasterChef India.

He also has his own show on Zee KhanaKhazana titled Ab Har Koi Chef.

World Travel Market (WTM) November 7 – 9, 2016 London, England ILTM December 5 – 8, 2016 Cannes, France

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Volume II Issue VIII MAY 2016

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In Conversation

Prakash Bang Managing Director RoomsXML Solutions

Need to Know

NTO

Isra Stapanaseth Director TAT Delhi Steven Dixon Regional Manager - South &

Mandavi

The Historical

Port Town

South East Asia at Tourism New Zealand

JORDAN

Whereabouts

A NON STOP THRILL RIDE

ASSOCIATION

STATE

AVIATION

NTO

HOSPITALITY