NOVEMBER 2015 by whereabouts

RNI No.: DELENG/2014/59308

www.whereabouts.in

WTM Special Edition

Volume II Issue II November 2015

Annual Subscription ` 660

In Conversation

Nishant Kashikar Country Head India & Gulf Tourism Australia

Association

Rajeev Kohli

achieves the milestone, becomes the first ever Asian President for SITE

State

Karnataka seeks relaxation in CRZ to develop beach tourism

Sunil Kumar R

Let us go beyond self - for we are only as big as our association

Uttarakhand

concentrates on pilgrimage and rural tourism

Need to Know

Pachmarhi Unwind Effortless

NEWS IN BRIEF

AVIATION

NTO

HOSPITALITY

DISCOUNT & OFFERS

6 INTERNATIONAL 8 DAY OF YOGA News in Brief

Recommend to read

ASSOCIATION COVER STORY

Let us go beyond self - for we are only as big as our association (TAAI)

Recommend

to read ENCOURAGES INDIA TOURISM TO CONCENTRATE EXCLUSIVE COVERAGE ON THIS IMPORTANT COMPONENT OF TOURISM

30 33 OMAN 35 37 TRADE

Madhya Pradesh prepares for tracking system to enhance Travelport's Student of the the Year brings talented Recommend safety of tourist to read candidates to the industry

EATING OUT

WHEREABOUTS Banyan

Dhawa

Tree unveils new brand-

OTOAI elects EC members for the term 2015-17 Recommend to read

12 17 20

Nothing Official About Itâ&#x20AC;Ś Karnataka seeks relaxation in CRZ to develop beach tourism

EXCLUSIVE

Recommend

read Rajasthan gears up totoattract 50 million domestic & 2.5 million IN CONVERSATION foreign tourists by 2018 Tourism Research Australia estimates 245,000 visitors from AVIATION India for 2015-16 Qatar Airways announces Recommend first A350 XWB route to USA to read

Rich Content & Branding: More The Leading than 120 airlines now signed up to MICE Destination industry leading product

HOSPITALITY

We are not after the top-line; rather we are keener in building the business the sustainable way: Prakash Bang

ON THE COVER

PACHMARHI

Airbus unites businesses in Unwind Effortlessly India under single company Recommend to read

NTO IN-CONVERSATION

My each Abu Dhabiassignment promotes has Cruise given mefor a new insight in to Toruism Indian traveller various aspects of hospitality Recommend business & industry nuances: to read Sudhir Sinha

AVIATION NEED TO KNOW

26 NALANDA

Vistara appoints Sanjiv Kapoor as Chief Strategy & Commercial Officer Ancient Seat of Learning Recommend

team@whereabouts

to read

Editor & Publisher

Marketing Executives

rajesh@whereabouts.in

Dheeraj Anand Regional Head-North &West

Managing Editor

Principal Advisor

Rajesh Tiwari

Mamta Tiwari

Anil Prakash

Editorial

Design

Jai Kishan Kaparwan Alvin

Sales & Marketing Solomon Sexena Country Head solomon@whereabouts.in

Mithlesh Kr Gupta

Accounts Prem Prakash Mishra

Legal Advisor Brijesh Tiwari

Recommend

to read Jordan to promote diversity FACT & FIGURES of the country through various platforms International tourist arrivals up 4 percent driven by strong NTO results in Europe GNTO embarks upon Recommend to read tier II cities

NEED TO KNOW AVIATION

Recommend to read

TECHNOLOGY

NTO

ASSOCIATION

STATE

EXTENSIVE COVERAGE

INTERNATIONAL YOGA DAY

EDITOR’S NOTE

Who Said What Karnataka seeks relaxation in Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) to develop beach tourism. The 320 km long coastline has immense potential for this segment in Karnataka. R V Deshpande, Minister for L&M Industries & Tourism, Govt of Karnataka Fifteen more planes shall be added to the domestic fleet in 2016, followed by another 15 that shall be replacements and would arrive in 2017. Meanwhile the international sectors would witness addition of 6 787’s and 3 777ER’s that would all arrive in 2017 and 2018. And this is just the beginning. Ashwani Lohani, CMD, AIR India

Dear Readers, While attending travel trade events (mostly annual conventions) in India; I have experienced that more emphasis is being given to the issues related to the policy makers, regulations, guidelines, etc . A lot of debate and discussion happen around them, however up to what extent and how frequently these discussions reach to the conclusion or desired solution is debatable issue itself. I have another point of view (that is very obvious); to my mind educational and motivational sessions/workshops ought to be conduct as to the great extent. It can offer better results in understanding the ambiguities of the business. Because its not policies and guidelines every time that uphold the growth of industry and its stakeholders, sometimes its our inability too is responsible for undesired outcome from the business. We fail to connect the technical, social and the ethical points that is equally important healthy business. Recently I have attended an event that was educational and motivational for its members in true sense, and I think that works.

My election to the post of president confirms SITE’s growing interest in India and China the two big markets in Asia along with other important regions such as Thailand and Singapore etc. Rajeev Kohli, President Elect, Site

INFOTAINMENT Dubai Tourism ‫@‏‬dubaitourism 1h1 hour ago #flydubai announces new fast-track boarding gate http://bit.ly/1NqiZO4

UNWTO ‫@‏‬UNWTO 1m1 minute ago Latest #UNWTO figures: Intl tourist arrivals up 4% driven by strong results in Europe http://ow.ly/U7RgL

Also I would like to congratulate Mr Rajeev Kohli for being elected SITE President 2016 and Mr Sunil Kumar R, for taking over as the TAAI President. Look forward for your valuable comments at rajesh@whereabouts.in

Centre for Aviation ‫@‏‬CAPA_Aviation Oct 21 Mobile technology is expected to disrupt the aviation industry within the next five years @Travelport #CAPAsummit

Keep Visiting, Keep updating Just one click & enter into the world of information. All the latest from Travel Business be it Tourism, Aviation, Hotels, Technology, Cruise, OTA, Visa & much more... MANTRA MEDIA GROUP

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NEWS IN BRIEF

Second edition of Golf Tourism Ministry of Shipping to Summit develop 78 lighthouses as he second edition of and guidelines to promote it. An tourism centres FICCI Golf Tourism advisory committee, India Golf

Summit organised in association with Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI) and India Golf Tourism Association (IGTA) supported by Ministry of Tourism concluded recently in New Delhi. The summit was inaugurated by Dr Mahesh Sharma, Minister of Tourism & Culture, Govt of India. Speaking at the occasion Vinod Zutsi, Secretary, Ministry of Tourism said, “The department of tourism has identified Golf as a niche tourism product for India and comes up with policies

Tourism Committee, has been set up to advise the government on the steps to be taken to strengthen Golf Tourism into India.” The three-day Summit and B2B meetings was attended by around 80 Golf tour operators from 16 countries of the world. There were over 170 structured meetings during the three days. Besides that, the overseas delegates were introduced to signature Golf Courses in Delhi NCR like ITC Classic, DLF Golf Course as well as Jaypee Golf Greens.

he Ministry of Shipping, along with the Directorate General of Lighthouses and Lightships (DGLL) has drawn up an ambitious programme to develop 78 lighthouses in the country as centres of tourism in the first phase under Public Private Partnership (PPP). The identified lighthouses are in Gujarat, Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka, Kerala, Lakshadweep, Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, West Bengal and Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The land adjacent to these lighthouses may have hotels, resorts, viewing galleries, maritime museums and heritage museums, adventure sports facilities, thematic restaurants, souvenir shops, LASER shows, spa & rejuvenation centres, amphitheaters and allied tourism facilities to attract the tourists, subject to viability and necessary clearances.

ITDC posts 4.28 Cr profit in half yearly (2015-16) results

ndia Tourism Development Corporation (ITDC), the public sector undertaking under the aegis of the Ministry of Tourism, posted a robust performance in half yearly results of the current financial year 2015-16. The total turnover in H1 ending September 2015 stood at ` 205.88 cr as compared to ` 218.33 cr in the corresponding H1 last year. The company registered Net Profit Before Tax (PBT) at ` 4.28 cr as compared to ` 2.61 cr in the

6 November 2015

corresponding H1 last year i.e. 2014-15. These details were announced in the Board of Directors’ meeting of the company at the Group’s flagship hotel, The Ashok, New Delhi. In H1, 201516 the momentum generated in the last financial year seem to have continued posting profit yet again. Also, The Ashok group of hotels has been in the forefront of innovative marketing initiatives ensuring consistency in sales and occupancy.

The DGLL has already invited Request for Qualifications (RFQ) from prospective and potential developers for eight Lighthouses at Aguada (Goa), Chandrabhaga (Odisha), Mahabalipuram, Kanya Kumari and Muttom (Tamil Nadu), Kadalur Point (Thikkodi, Kerala), Kanhoji Angre and Sunk Rock (Maharashtra) and Minicoy (Lakshadweep). An Expression of Interest (EOI) has also been issued by DGLL for another 70 lighthouses. To invoke greater interest of public and private players, the Ministry of Shipping has organised three Road Shows

at Kochi, Vizag and Chennai on 14th, 17th & 19th October, 2015 respectively, and Investor Summit in Mumbai on 29th October, 2015 where it will seek active participation from the hospitality players and developers (in the private sector) and the support of the State Government agencies at these events. India has 189 lighthouses dotting its vast coast line of 7517 Kms, including the Andaman and Nicobar Islands in the Bay of Bengal and Lakshadweep Islands in the Arabian Sea. Steeped in rich maritime heritage, each lighthouse has its own story to tell to the wayfarers and has tremendous tourism potential just waiting to be tapped. The DGLL has successfully developed 4 lighthouses as tourist attraction centres at Madras and Mahabalipuram Lighthouses in Tamil Nadu & the Alleppy and Cannanore Lighthouses in Kerala, which have been garnering substantial tourist footfall.

NEWS IN BRIEF

Bangkok Airways joins PATA

ATA has a special relationship with Thailand, having moved its headquarters to Bangkok in 1998. That is why we are especially pleased to welcome Bangkok Airways as our newest Aviation member. We look forward to working with them to help build their business, network, people, brand, and insights through our various activities and initiatives,” said Mario Hardy, CEO PATA. Bangkok Airways first began air transportation services in 1968-established as ‘Sahakol Air’, it became the first private aviation company in Thailand. In order to fulfill the increasing demands for air transportation, Bangkok Airways officially began its operations in 1986 as the country’s first privatelyowned domestic airline; initially offering scheduled flights from Bangkok to Krabi, Korat, and Surin.

Bangkok Airways has also invested in building and maintaining its own privatelyoperated airports at Samui, Sukhothai, and Trat. These developments provide Thailand with more air transportation hubs to in order to facilitate increasing air traffic volume.

Presently, Bangkok Airways has obtained permits to operate scheduled flights over 20 different major routes— covering nearly all major resort destinations in Thailand. Additionally, the airline has also obtained permits to fly internationally to Myanmar, Lao PDR, Cambodia, Malaysia, Singapore, Hong Kong SAR, India, Bangladesh and Maldives.

According to PATA, international visitor arrivals (IVAs) to Thailand from source markets where Bangkok Airways operates, excluding Maldives, totalled 5.4 million during the first 8 months of 2015, 27 percent of the total IVAs year to date. In addition, PATA forecasts that IVAs from the same source markets to Thailand will reach the 11.4 million mark by 2019.

Mario Hardy CEO PATA

Government moots tax sops, levy on air tickets in aviation policy

he proposed 2 percent levy on all domestic and international tickets can bring in INR 1,500 crore a year that would be used to expand regional routes. The fliers may have to pay 2 percent more towards a new regional connectivity levy proposed under the much-

awaited draft civil aviation policy, which also proposes various tax sops and over 50 percent FDI for the Indian carriers. The final policy is expected to be decided in a couple of months after looking into comments on all draft proposals.

DoNER Ministry moots commercial helicopter service within Northeast

he Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER) Ministry has mooted commercial helicopter service within Northeast in order to improve intra-regional connectivity. At a meeting of senior officers of the Union Ministry for Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER), Dr Jitendra Singh said that the biggest hurdle in attracting investments, tourism and entrepreneurship in Northeast is the lack of adequate connectivity. DoNER Ministry is taking up with the Civil Aviation Ministry, the prospect of developing Guwahati Airport as regional hub for the entire Northeast. The helicopters can be grounded there overnight and can be put to use for commercial sorties for civilian passengers at frequent intervals to different destinations in all the eight states of Northeast. Elaborating more on this he said that the discussion can be

held with different helicopter companies like Pawan Hans and issues related to equity can be worked out to the mutual advantage of all. Guwahati Airport is connected by regular flights to a number of destinations including Delhi, Kolkata, Jaipur and Bangalore, and therefore, when regular commercial helicopter service gets initiated, passengers from any part of the country or abroad who land at Guwahati airport by a civil aircraft will have the option to take a connecting helicopter flight to a further destination in the region.

UNWTO calls for more and better tourism data

NWTO called on the occasion of World Statistics Day for improved investment and coordination in data collection in the tourism sector. Under the theme ‘Better Data. Better Lives’ the UN World Statistics Day is celebrated to raise awareness of how official statistics help decision makers develop informed policies that impact millions of people. Improved data sources, sound statistical methods, new technologies and strengthened statistical systems enable better decisions and better lives for all. “Robust tourism statistics are vital to guide sustainable

development, monitor progress, evaluate impact, promote results-focused management, and highlight strategic issues for policy objectives. UNWTO calls upon national governments to work towards building internationally comparable and reliable tourism statistics, including Tourism Satellite Accounts (TSA), in line with the UN approved guiding namely the International Recommendations, the International Recommendations for Tourism Statistics 2008 and the Tourism Satellite Account: Recommended Methodological Framework 2008” said UNWTO Secretary-General, Taleb Rifai.

November 2015 7

ASSOCIATION tete-a-tete with TAAI President

Let us go beyond self - for we are only as big as our association (TAAI) Sunil Kumar R

The members of Travel Agents Association of India (TAAI) have elected ‘Team Positive’ as its Office Bearers and Managing Committee for the two year term (2015-17) at the 64th AGM held in Mumbai. Soon after this, Whereabouts had an exclusive conversation with the newly elected President of TAAI, Sunil Kumar R. During the conversation he unfolds the plan of action for the association, and reveals that the managing committee would like to evolve the association to be relevant in today’s environment. Here are the excerpts.

our members, truly deserve enormous attention to their growing challenges, balancing the industry’s evolution with the growing needs of our members is a huge goal to accomplish. Surely, our plans include:

Rajesh Tiwari

ÂÂTo create a programmes that will connect us strongly with our principals/partners

o start with kindly throw some light on your short and long term plans for the association? It has been a very long continuous innings with TAAI at the Managing Committee. I had worked closely with several Presidents of TAAI and always stood by the leadership and supported various endeavors. The transition that has taken place in the Industry during the past 20 years is quite a challenge for those who have invested heavily and have been looking forward to a break. As time passes, to sustain success is becoming increasingly difficult. This has impacted our association (TAAI) too and to meet up with the expectations of our membership is growing tougher by the day. While

8 November 2015

ÂÂTo focus on image of TAAI – to help build a brand that would make it easy for greater recognition to the members and the Association and our demands from time to time ÂÂFocus on programmes that will enhance member skills and offer newer opportunities to sustain success of the past and grow beyond ÂÂA stronger administrative secretariat with higher levels of professionalism to assist and regularly communicate with members and our partners

ÂÂA stronger liaison at New Delhi to be positively heard by the Officers of the Government and Boards ÂÂTo review our Constitution and update it to make it more relevant to changing times ÂÂInteract at much higher frequency with our membership and thus move the Managing Committee to as many possible locations ÂÂTo work closely with Tourism Boards to support Tourism Opportunities – both Inbound & Outbound ÂÂTo utilise the tremendous talent of our own members whose unique initiatives must be shared with others and such achievers must be highlighted ÂÂEmerge more relevant an association by relating to the needs of our members who

The transition that has taken place in the Industry during the past 20 years is quite a challenge for those who have invested heavily and have been looking forward to a break. As time passes, to sustain success is becoming increasingly difficult. This has impacted our association (TAAI) too and to meet up with the expectations of our membership is growing tougher by the day. have great expectations from the Industry as our volumes are consistently rising in all areas ÂÂAnd more areas that will be soon shortlisted at our forthcoming Managing Committee Meeting

What would be the first thing that you will execute in your new term? We have already met as the Managing Committee on the 7th & 8th October and are meeting up again on the 19th & 20th Nov at New Delhi and have assigned roles and responsibilities. A detailed check list and goals have been drawn up and have already plunged into the action.

What were the most important points in your agenda that might have attracted huge support from the industry? There were so many points, however some of them are;

Sunil Kumar R President TAAI

ÂÂAn experienced team ÂÂEvidence of good past leadership ÂÂOur willingness to have as many dialogues with our principals/partners to derive a win-win environment

And who gets the credit for this historical win; your performance as an acting president or the agenda you have presented for this new term? The full team … of course.

What message would you like to convey to the members who have shown their confidence in your leadership? I will say let us work together. It is the collaboration (partnership/gropus effort) and not just co-operation (assistance/help) that is the need of the hour. So let us go beyond self – for we are only as big as our Association. As we get our association to grown – correspondingly our membership value rises. Let us turn learners in an environment that is offering unprecedented opportunities to do businesses like never before. When we stretch beyond, we see more. Let us stretch beyond.

ASSOCIATION

Rajeev Kohli achieves the milestone, becomes the first ever Asian President for SITE Rajeev Kohli, Joint Managing Director, Creative Travel has created the history as he is the first person from Asia to lead the Society for Incentive Travel Excellence (SITE) as the President. He will assume the charges from January 2016. Rajesh Tiwari

dynamic leader Rajeev Kohli is expected to add his own special magic to the job by utilising his vast experience of travel trade business. Members of the association have strong belief that under his dynamic leadership the SITE will grow leaps and bounds. Its interesting to know that he has been attending the SITE conferences for the last one decade, but came on board just four years ago. Speaking on his achievement Kohli said, “It’s a great honour and privilege for me to be the SITE President as I am the first person from Asia to be elected for the top job of the association.” According to him, “My election to the post of president confirms

SITE’s growing interest in India and China, the two big markets in Asia along with other important regions such as Thailand and Singapore etc. The major regions of the continent; India and China have great potential of incentive business in both segments; inbound and outbound.” While elaborating on the future plans for the association, he emphasised on raising the member profile. “Asia will be one of our core targets for membership growth. Right now our Asian membership is about six percent of the total. That needs to increase significantly, and I am keen to double the number in next one year. For instance, if each member of the association encourages just one company to join the SITE, the numbers will be double. Also we will be approaching associations in Asia to engage their members with our association.” SITE is the only global organisation dedicated to strengthening and supporting the incentive travel industry. SITE members help companies maximise workforce output by creating and delivering incentive travel programmes that inspire

My election to the post of president confirms SITE’s growing interest in India and China, the two big markets in Asia along with other important regions such as Thailand and Singapore etc. The major regions of the continent; India and China have great potential of incentive business in both segments; inbound and outbound. people to exceed expectations and transcend their goals The Site Global Conference 2015 is anoter achievement not only for India but for Asia as a whole. So far the conference has been rotating between the Americas, Europe and the Middle East. It was the historic occasion when this conference came to New Delhi and the delegates had an experience like never before.

Rajeev Kohli Joint Managing Director Creative Travel

Quote for him In fact, when Rajeev Kohli came onto the SITE Board a couple of years ago and now that he is the President-Elect 2015 (he will assume the charge of President from January 2016) for the global body, it was recognised that the new order had set in. India is the future of corporate growth and incentive travel will have a critical role to play. Anup Nair Chairman SITE India Chaptre

ATPI purchases DTC Travel in Malaysia WH Desk

he ATPI Group has expanded its operation in Malaysia following its acquisition of DTC Travel. Now known as ATPI Malaysia the company has appointed Karen Salvador as managing director, Malaysia. DTC Travel was formally a partner of the growing ATPI Network. The new team will double in size and will occupy refurbished offices in the business region of Kuala Lumpur.

In further developments, ATPI has relocated its expanding Singapore team to larger premises, located in the Tampines business region, with enhanced roles for key personnel to accommodate its growing business in the region. Vivian Choo moves into the role of regional director, strategic sales for the ATPI Group across Asia Pacific and her remit will cover South East Asia. Prior to joining the ATPI Group just over 12 months ago, Choo held senior business development roles for

various leading international travel management companies. The role of managing director for Singapore will be filled by Matthew Stewart. Previously holding senior sales and account management roles for Griffin, the international travel company acquired by the ATPI Group in November 2014, Stewart has been based in the city-state for a number of years. Stewart will be supported by Kelly Jones in the newly created role of regional head of key account management – Far

East, with responsibility for the team throughout Asia Pacific, an expanded remit from her previous role as head of regional key account management. Graham Ramsey, CEO, ATPI Group, said, “Growing our presence in Asia Pacific has been a key objective for us in recent years. We believe that our people offer a global perspective, combined with the best regional knowledge, which when united with our global buying power, benefits clients from all industry sectors.”

November 2015 9

EXCLUSIVE COVERAGE

WTM LONDON welcomes 250 new exhibitors World Travel Market London 2015 has signed up almost 250 new exhibitors for this edition. India, sponsor for the WTM Buyers’ Club have added Hotel Pushkar Palace in Rajasthan and the Department of Tourism-State of Telangana from the country. Find out more… WH Desk

he 247 newcomers hail from all four corners of the globe and represent every travel sector, including airlines, tourist boards, luxury resorts and technology specialists. They range from large corporations to small-business entrepreneurs who have spotted a gap in the market for a new product. Together they will contribute to some of the 1.1 million on-stand meetings that are expected to lead to more than £2.5 billion worth of deals being agreed during the four days of the show, at ExCeL, from November 2-5. Elaborating on this Simon Press, Senior Exhibition Director, WTM London said, “The fact that WTM London has signed up almost 250 new exhibitors shows how immensely important the global travel trade sees this event.” “The variety of new exhibitors is impressive, with small, entrepreneurial start-ups to tourist boards to wellestablished global operators and everything in between. With many opportunities to network and conference sessions that cover the whole spectrum of the industry, there is no better place to do business than WTM London,” he added. Flag-carriers such as Avianca and Kuwait Airways and highprofile tourist boards from as far afield as Orlando, Tokyo, the Caribbean and Scotland

10 November 2015

Simon Press Senior Exhibition Director, WTM London

“The fact that WTM London has signed up almost 250 new exhibitors shows how immensely important the global travel trade sees this event.” are among the newcomers. All nine WTM regions will host new exhibitors, with North America welcoming one of the world’s most recognised carriers United Airlines and the official tourism association for the most visited destination in the US Visit Orlando. The Caribbean region welcomes four new exhibitors; the hugely influential Caribbean Hotel & Tourism Association; hotel

group Palace Resorts; interisland carrier Trans Caribbean Air and the Guadeloupe Islands Tourist Board.

the West Midland Safari Park, representing Ongava Game Reserve in Namibia, in the Africa region.

Latin America has six new exhibitors, including Colombia’s flag-carrier Avianca and Brazil’s Caiman Ecoturismo, while Asia has wooed eight new exhibitors, including representation firm Khiri Travel; the Tokyo Convention & Visitors Bureau and a new tour company Pegu Travels, which offers experiences in Myanmar, formerly known as Burma, fast becoming a popular tourist destination.

Middle East has 10, including major players such as Kuwait Airways; the tourism office of the Kingdom of Bahrain; and Dubai Parks & Resorts – which will open three theme parks and a waterpark in 2016, including Legoland Dubai.

Two well-known UK tour operators Premier Holidays and Cosmos Holidays are among 39 new exhibitors in the Europe area. Others include Ticket Bureau; Ibiza’s tourism promotion agency and Liberation Route Europe, an international remembrance trail that connects important milestones from the Second World War. The UK and Ireland zone has 12 fresh faces including VisitScotland, which is taking its own stand for the first time; Norfolk Broads boating holiday firm Herbert Woods; B2B accommodation specialist Vanilla Tours; and group travel organiser The Group Company. India, sponsor for the WTM Buyers’ Club, and Africa have attracted 12 new exhibitors each, including Hotel Pushkar Palace in Rajasthan and the tourism department of the state of Telangana in India, plus Morocco’s tourist board and

The Global Village section will have 24 new exhibitors this year, including accommodation specialists such TUI’s Destination Services, Hotelbeds Group; Fox Rent A Car Reservation System and several hotel companies, such as NH Hotel Group and Hard Rock International. Other events within WTM London 2015 also welcome new exhibitors: The Travel Tech Show at WTM London has 40, while A Taste of ILTM at WTM London has 19 new exhibitors. New technology brands range from large, well-established suppliers of travel technology such as Atcore to start-ups such as software technology development company Celigra. Among many well-known upmarket names that will take part in the luxury show this year are Small Luxury Hotels of the World; Culloden Estate & Spa; Beverly Hills Conference & Visitors Bureau; Fairmont Hotels & Resorts Kenya; and South Africa’s Sun International, which has five-star hotels, casinos and resorts in its portfolio.

EXCLUSIVE COVERAGE

The future of travel; Three predictions that came true For the tenth consecutive year, Euromonitor International and World Travel Market London (WTM) are at the forefront of the travel industry, predicting future trends that will shape the industry in the annual WTM London Global Trends Report. Three of the most popular trends from the 2014’s edition are being elaborated below.

a considerable increase in bicycle tourism. In the US, the historic Ojai Valley Inn and Spa partnered with a bike shop to offer rental bicycles through an onsite kiosk. Furthermore, in August 2015, sustainable transport charity Sustrans estimated that cycling tourism adds over £650 million to the UK economy each year.

WH Desk

The WTM London Global Trends Report 2014 announced that an increasing demand for low cost, high-value travel and non-conventional lodging establishments will spread from the UK to the rest of the world. Design-led Generator Hostels are a success story taking the tourism industry by storm, currently with ten unique hostels in nine European cities and two more planned for 2016. Additional notable

The rise of the MAMILs and cycling tourism The WTM London Global Trends Report 2014 revealed that the growing popularity of cycling is posing a threat to golf tourism with the rise of MAMILs (middleaged-men-in-lycra) in the US and beyond. In March 2015, FOX News identified a growing number of travel players witnessing

Poshtels have a luxury facelift

examples of poshtels include Freehand Miami Hostel with its cocktail bar named one of the World’s 50 Best Bars in 2014, the Shophouse Social Hostel in Singapore, offering a ladies-only pink-hued floor called No Mans Land, as well as eco-friendly Once in Capetown Hostel.

Wearable electronics goes mainstream The report predicted that the incredible rise of wearable electronics will impact on the way we travel. According to Euromonitor data, wearable electronics are no longer considered a niche sector and have become the world’s best-selling consumer electronics product after smartphones. Wearable electronics are forecast to exceed 305 million units in 2020, with a compound annual growth rate of 55 percent over the next five years.

Continued innovation and new applications will define the success of this category and its importance to the travel industry. With the Apple Watch consumers can now access airline data, book a journey with Uber, plan a trip with TripAdvisor and access their room at hotel chains such as Starwood and Marriott. And with the addition of the Google Maps app in September 2015, the traveler’s journey is becoming a smoother, less complicated experience. The WTM Global Trends Report 2015 by Euromonitor International will be launched at London’s Excel Centre during a press conference on Monday 2nd November at 13:30 in the Platinum Suite 5&6. A session for WTM attendees will be held on Tuesday 3rd November at 12:00 in Platinum Suite 1.

Social media takes centre stage at WTM London This year’s social media programme at World Travel Market London 2015 takes place across three days and will feature senior executives from Facebook, Twitter and Tripadvisor as well as startups, destinations, bloggers and publishers. WH Desk

rganised in partnership with Travel Perspective, the sessions begins on 3rd November in the South Gallery before moving onto the Global Stage for 4th and 5th November. The keynote speaker for the programme is Lee McCabe, global head of travel for Facebook. He will talk about how travel firms can leverage Facebook’s 1.5 billion users

in his presentation entitled ‘Facebook Future: Mobile, Messaging and Virtual Reality’.

When: November 4th from 1.30pm to 1.55pm Twitter is another worldwide platform which is engaging with the travel industry. Samir Bhana, its sales manager for UK and Ireland, features in a face-to-face interview with Mark Frary, co-founder of Travel Perspective.

When: November 5th from 12.50pm to 1.25pm Tripadvisor is another Nasdaqlisted billion-dollar blue-chip business represented in the social media programme. Product Director Sarah Davey appears on a panel of experts, each of whom will choose their

favourite new travel start-up and explain what is so exciting about it. Each startup will presents to the panel with the audience voting to decide which one is ‘Travel’s Next Big Thing’. Her insight will be worth listening to in 2009 she founded Tripbod, a digital platform which connects travellers with local experts, and which was bought by Tripadvisor in 2014.

When: Immediately follows McCabe’s keynote The other six sessions include sharing best practice examples from destinations, travel firms and businesses outside the sector. Working with bloggers from outside the travel industry is also on the agenda. ‘Content Marketing’ is also up for discussion with a panel offering travel firms advice on

publishing. The programme ends with a session on how travel firms can use video marketing in the age of mobile, hosted by two executives from YouTube. WTM London, Conference Manger, Charlotte Sutton, said, “We have been running a social media programme for a number of years, and every year interest in the topic grows. At the same time, social media is maturing as a marketing and sales channel, but there is still lots to learn for the experienced and newcomer alike. This year we are also looking outside travel for bestpractice examples.”

November 2015 11

STATE

Karnataka seeks relaxation in CRZ to develop beach tourism In an interaction with Whereabouts, R V Deshpande, Minister for Large & Medium Industries and Tourism, Government of Karnataka shared that the state tourism department is demanding relaxation in CRZ to utilise its vast coastline for beach tourism. Rajesh Tiwari

urther speaking on this he said, “We have approached the Union Minister for Environment & Forest, Prakash Javadekar and submitted a proposal for relaxation in CRZ. We have been assured by him to look into the matter.” “The 320 km. long coastline has immense potential for beach tourism in Karnataka. We have identified 44 beaches and 4

islands that can be developed for this segment but due to CRZ restrictions we are not able to make use of it. As soon as the relaxation put in place all the beaches will be opened for tourism,” he added. Elaborating on the other aspect of tourism he said that Karnataka has a mix of everything, whether it is heritage, eco, adventure, leisure, rural tourism or anything else you name it you will find it. “Our thrust is on tourism, and apart from beach tourism we are keen to grow adventure, eco, heritage tourism segments to generate more job opportunities and revenue.” The state is holding the Invest Karnataka 2016 from February 3rd to 5th in Bengaluru. The meet aims to attract investment for tourism,

manufacturing, automobiles, aerospace, infrastructure and information technology etc. from India and abroad. As per him, the Invest Karnataka provides an excellent platform for all stakeholders to congregate, network and execute investment decisions. “In order to promote the meet we are holding the roadshows across the country,” he informed. The state has already organised shows in New Delhi, Dubai and South Africa recently, and set to meet the industry professionals in Mumbai, Chennai and Hyderabad on November 18th, 21st and 25th respectively. Tourism industry has a huge potential of investment across the state of Karnataka. He informed that The Department of Tourism has signed several MoU’s during the PATA

R V Deshpande Minister for Industries & Tourism Govt. of Karnataka

conference.” The state is concentrating on several mega tourism projects which include establishment of cable car at Nandi Hills, huge investment at Hampi, and developing Mysore and Bijapur as the tourism destinations. The recently organised PATA Conference has attracted more than 1000 foreign delegates from India and abroad.

Kerala Tourism forays into Japanese market This is the first time Kerala Tourism organised a road show in Japan; though the state tourism department had taken part in the biggest travel and trade show in Japan, JATA Tourism Expo, in the last two years WH Desk

s many as 55 leading trade participants from the Japanese travel and tourism industry participated in the roadshow held on October 19 at the landmark Hotel New Otani Tokyo, venue of several G-7 summits and location for the Bond film ‘You Only Live Twice’. The road show follows the assurance given by the Japanese government to support the state in promoting tourism, during the meeting between Kerala Tourism Secretary, G Kamala Vardhana

12 November 2015

Rao and Japan’s Ambassador to India, Takeshi Yagi, in New Delhi on October 6. “As the world’s third largest economy, Japan is a very important market for us. After the 2009 global financial meltdown, Japan has been on the path of recovery with increased employment and income in the recent years,” said A P Anil Kumar, Minister for Tourism, Government of Kerala. “ “The road show in Tokyo is a significant step for us to position our state as a top destination for Japanese travellers as well as a MICE destination for CEOs of its major companies to conduct meetings and conferences,” added Anilkumar. The Kerala Tourism delegation was led by Additional Director (General) Anupama T V, who made a detailed presentation

about the tourism products at the roadshow. “There was an enthusiastic response to the road show from the Japanese industry. The leading outbound travel companies wanted to get further insights into the products offered by us,” said Anupama. “Japan is certainly going to be big market for Kerala Tourism in the future,” she added. The office bearers of Japanese Association of Travel Agents attended the roadshow. The Japanese media also showed its keen interest in the event, with a participation of several media persons representing mainstream news organisations attending the roadshow. Tourist arrivals from Japan have witnessed a 25 percent growth in the last five years. The number of Japanese tourists to Kerala last year was 8,785.

A P Anil Kumar Minister for Tourism Government of Kerala

The state delegation included trade partners Ayurveda Mana, Eastend Hotels & Resorts, Kairali Ayurvedic Village, Kumarakom Lake Resort, Thomas Hotel & Resorts, Travel Planners. The road show was partnered by Singapore Airlines and Air India.

STATE

Uttarakhand concentrates on pilgrimage and rural tourism The department of tourism plans to execute several new initiatives to expedite the growth of tourism in the state. Developing rural tourism along with the expansion of pilgrimage, eco, wellness and yoga are the major concern at the moment. Here are the excerpts of an exclusive conversation with Dr Umakant Panwar, Ex Principal SecretaryTourism, Uttarakhand. Rajesh Tiwari

fter the flood tragedy in 2013, an impression has formed in the minds of people in India and abroad that Uttarakhand is not a safe place to visit. Since then the department of tourism making untiring efforts to make people understand that most of the things have put in place, and further development of various sectors of tourism is on full swing. “We have seen that the Char Dham Yatra this year has been successful. More than 8.5 lakh pilgrims have already

visited this year; which is a healthy good sign that the Yatra has rebound. This further reinforces our message that Uttarakhand is a safe place. So though this interview I would like to reach out to the people and tell them that we have restored infrastructure, bridges, roads etc. and put up safety measures in place,” said Dr Umakant Panwar, Ex. Principal Secretary, Department of Tourism, Government of Uttarakhand. The department is concentrating on establishing ropeways for better transportation at pilgrim places. “Three ropeways have already been awarded for construction mostly in urban regions of Kumaun and Garhwal. These are expected to be operational in two years time. Another ropeway at Hemkunt Sahib has been awarded but it will take a little longer to get complete,” informed Dr Panwar. With the establishment of Biometric registration system at Kedarnath the helicopter service has been restored to the destination.

“We have seen that the Char Dham Yatra this year has been successful. More than 8.5 lakh pilgrims have already visited this year; which is a healthy good sign that the Yatra has rebound. This further reinforces our message that Uttarakhand is a safe place. Uttarakhand is concentrating on rural tourism in a big way. A number of activities happen in rural areas that make this section very important from tourism’s perspective. For better accommodation facility in rural areas the department has come up with a plan to develop home stays at these places.”We have identified several villages located in and around the prominent tourist places. We encourage local people to get involved in this initiative and utilise their places as home stays. We provide financial

Dr Umakant Panwar Ex Principal Secretary-Tourism Govt of Uttarakhand

assistance; training and marketing to built and promote these home stays. In first phase we will develop home stays at 14 villages. We aim to cover at least 50 villages by end of the year (2015-16),” he informed. The state is planning to promote eco tourism as well. The state has established Eco Tourism Corporation to look after the activities of this segment. Since the state of Uttarakhand is covered with the dense forest, lot of the activities happen in this segment. We are holding Bird Watchers festival, creating eco tours and wildlife sanctuaries etc,” concludes Dr Panwar.

MoT

More than 2 Lakh tourists arrived on e-Tourist Visa during Jan-Sept 2015 WH Desk

overnment of India launched Tourist Visa on Arrival (TVoA) enabled by Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA), presently known as e-Tourist Visa scheme on 27th November 2014. At present e-Tourist Visa facility is available for citizens of 113 countries arriving at 16 Airports in India. The following are the important highlights (September, 2015): ÂÂDuring the month of September, 2015 a total of

14 November 2015

31,729 tourist arrived on e-Tourist Visa as compared to 2,170 during the month of September, 2014 registering a growth of 1362.2 percent. ÂÂDuring January- September, 2015 a total of 2,01,705 tourist arrived on e-Tourist Visa as compared to 19,290 during January- September, 2014 registering a growth of 945.6 percent . ÂÂThis high growth may be attributed to introduction of e-Tourist Visa for 113

countries as against coverage of earlier TVoA scheme for 12 countries. The percentage shares of top 10 source countries availing e-Tourist Visa facility during September, 2015 were USA (18.71 percent), UK (9.24 percent), Australia (8.50 percent), Germany (7.22 percent), China (6.36 percent), France (5.22 percent), Canada (4.54 percent), Israel (3.61 percent), Japan (2.83 percent), and Mexico (2.66 percent). The percentage shares of different ports in tourist arrivals on e-Tourist Visa during September, 2015 were New Delhi Airport (50.69 percent),

Mumbai Airport (20.70 percent), Bengaluru Airport (7.44 percent), Chennai Airport (7.18 percent), Kochi Airport (3.53 percent), Kolkata Airport (2.93 percent), Hyderabad Airport (2.74 percent), Goa Airport (1.71 percent), Trivandrum Airport (1.30 percent), Ahmedabad Airport (0.72 percent), Amritsar Airport (0.43 percent), Tiruchinapalli Airport (0.33 percent), Jaipur Airport (0.27 percent), Varanasi Airport (0.01 percent) and Gaya Airport ( 0.01 percent).

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CRUISE

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irun Travel Marketing gives you a glimpse of the Spice route with its 15 Night voyage on Azamara Quest across Dubai, Mumbai, Goa, Kochi, Colombo, Port Klang and Singapore. Immerse yourself in the breath-taking views of the land destinations and soak in the culture of South Asia with each shore excursion including an exclusive AzAmazing Evening in Kochi that captures the sights, sounds, and tastes of the scenic destination. Framed by Dubai and Singapore, this voyage features remarkable scenic and cultural diversity.

Cross over to Mumbai, a city fueled by Bollywood and entrepreneurial dreams, and explore grand Victoria Terminus, colorful temples, bazaars and markets. You could also enjoy a proper British tea at the famous Taj Mahal Palace hotel. Discover another side of India on the beautiful beaches of Goa, where you can also go bird watching along the rivers. Next you’ll sail to the peaceful backwaters and traditional fishing villages of Kochi, another unique experience. Sri Lanka combines great natural beauty with UNESCO World Heritage Sites including sacred Buddhist temples, rainforest preserves and Galle Fort. Another option is the Pinnewala Elephant orphanage. In Kuala Lumpur you’ll find incredible shopping, the dizzying heights of Petronos Twin Towers, and a colonial center that’s perfect for walking. The special AzAmazing Eveningis an authentic, bespoke

event organised by Azamara Club Cruises, allowing for destination immersion at its finest. During the Voyage, cruisers will get a dekko into the culture and traditions of Kerala during the stay at Kochi. A painted elephant will welcome them to a Kerala celebration at Vivanta by Taj Malabar. You can stroll through lush, green lawns and explore an assembled marketplace featuring tea and toddy shops, an astrologer, potter, cane weaver, and a Mehendi artist creating delicate henna tattoos. Enjoy drinks and desserts as you’re entertained by expressive Kathakali dancers in elaborate costumes and make-up. Also witness performances of Mohiniyattam and Kalaripayattu (a martial arts dance using spears, daggers and swords) Ship: Azamara Quest

Sailing Date: 03 November to 18th November 2015 Highlights ÂÂComplimentary Az Amazing Evening : The Culture and Traditions of Kerela ÂÂDetails - Revel in the exotic beauty of Kerala with a cultural celebration like no other. A decorated elephant greets guests at the acclaimed luxury hotel Vivanta by Taj Malabar. Stylish and serene on Willingdon Island, this palatial hotel offers a magnificent view of Cochin’s harbor. ÂÂ1 Overnight Stays – Colombo , Sri Lanka ÂÂLate Night Stays – Dubai, United Arab Emrirates| Mumbai , India | Goa , India | Cochin , India Starting Rates :USD 4,374.00* per person.

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16 November 2015

IN CONVERSATION

Tourism Research Australia estimates 245,000 visitors from India for 2015-16

Nishant Kashikar

Tourism Research Australia (TRA) is estimating 245,000 visitors from India for 2015-16. Arrivals from India are expected to double over the next decade, to 405,000 by the financial year 2024-25, says Nishant Kashikar, Country Head-India & Gulf Tourism Australia in an exclusive interaction with Whereabouts. Find out more... Rajesh Tiwari

What are the recent initiatives by Tourism Australia that you would like to share with us? There are a host of initiatives that we have taken in previous months. ‘There’s Nothing like Australia’ continues to be Tourism Australia’s global consumer marketing campaign highlighting some of the best attractions and experiences Australia has to offer. The campaign will restate that Australia has a strong aquatic and coastal offering and will tap into the fact that 70 percent of our international visitors participate in an aquatic and/or coastal experience as part of the trip to Australia. On the trade front, our annual trade activity, India Travel Mission (ITM) aims at bringing together top selling Australian suppliers to meet and forge valuable business associations with Indian trade. To further engage with our travel trade partners, Tourism Australia has launched the revamped version of the ‘Aussie Specialist Program’ which consists of interactive training modules, itinerary suggestions,

factsheets, latest industry news updates, destination FAQs and an interactive map. We are running a tactical media campaign with our key distribution partners such as Kesari Tours, Vacations Exotica, MakeMyTrip.com, Yatra.com, Cox & Kings, TUI, and KuoniSOTC featuring attractive travel packages starting at Rs. 119,990. These cost effective holiday packages will encourage a high proportion of Indian travellers to be Australia bound for the yearend holiday season.

How has your approach been towards the distribution and airline partners? Do you have any latest plan in this segment? Tourism Australia works cooperatively with its key distribution and airline partners using its global campaign There’s Nothing Like Australia - as the creative platform. This includes working in collaboration with State and Territory Tourism Organisations, to take an aligned approach to marketing Australia to consumers across all our key markets. Airline and trade partnerships help to convert consumer desire to travel to Australia, into travel bookings by combining destination and tactical price point marketing. We recently collaborated with key airline partners including Singapore Airlines, Air India and Silk Air for joint advertising campaigns presenting potential travellers with special fares. We will be announcing similar associations in the coming times to tap the Indian summer holiday season traffic.

As per the reports India stood at 10th position in terms of spending; where does it stand in terms of tourist arrivals as compare to other destinations?

India is currently Australia’s 8th largest inbound tourism market in terms of tourist arrivals. For the year ended August 2015, 225,000 Indian travellers visited Australia which is an increase of 19 percent for the same period the previous year. For the eight months to August 2015, Australia received 154,000 visitors from India, a 22 percent increase relative to the same period of the previous year. Tourism Research Australia (TRA) is estimating 245,000 visitors from India for 2015-16. Arrivals from India are expected to double over the next decade, to 405,000 by the financial year 2024-25.

Being a long haul destination how challenging is promoting Australia? Direct aviation access, fragmented distribution, time, price and distance are our key challenges. Whilst we need an additional 250,000 seats on the India – Australia route over the next five years, Tourism Australia is collaborating with its key airline partners, including Singapore Airlines, Malaysia Airlines, Air India, Jet Airways, Qantas, amongst others, to increase direct and one-stop connectivity into Australia. Our tactical cooperative partnerships with leading Aussie Specialist travel agencies are aimed to drive their volumes and market share, as well as promote quality experiences within Australia, encouraging new product development. Tourism Australia will continue to focus on its mid-aged, affluent, target customer, who is able to afford the cost of a long haul holiday.

Have you noticed any latest trend or preferences among Indian travellers?

Nishant Kashikar Country Manager-India & Gulf, Tourism Australia

We observe that statistically, India is one of the world’s fastest growing outbound travel markets and behaviourally, travellers are now willing to explore new destinations and experiences. There is rising trend of Indian travellers opting for nontraditional destinations like Hamilton Island, Kangaroo Island and Tasmania. We have also seen growing interest for culinary tourism, sports tourism and increased preference on opting for self-drive holidays in the country. Australia’s coastline, wildlife, food and wine offering, and island experiences generate the greatest appeal amongst our target segment.

How do you see the growth of Australia Tourism in next couple of years? Tourism Research Australia’s 2015 Tourism Outlook predicts encouraging growth in Indian visitors in to Australia, which are set to double over the next decade. The India 2020 Strategic Plan has been developed to help Tourism Australia and the Australian tourism industry maximise the potential of India by identifying ways to work effectively in this large and complex market. Arrivals from India are expected to perform well with an average annual financial year growth rate of 7.2 percent through to the financial year 2021-22.

November 2015 17

NEED TO KNOW Beaches in Odisha can truly engulf you in a holiday spirit. As you bask in the glory of a moderate sun here, the golden sand beaches leave you still asking for more. WH Desk

ith each of these beaches having some rare features, the Odisha Beach Tour can prove to be a real food for thought. Due to their increasing popularity amongst the tourists and locals both, beaches in Odisha have started getting special attention from Odisha Tourism thus bringing about considerable developmental changes. As a result, Odisha Beaches are being flocked by an increased number of tourists with each passing year. With a vast coastline spread over a lush area of 250 miles, Odisha still houses some relatively virgin or quite unexplored beaches. Endowed with nature’s bounty, meandering rivers, impressive waterfalls, forest-clad blue hills of Eastern Ghats with rich wild life, Odisha is dotted with exquisite beaches like Chandipur, Puri and Gopalpur on Sea with each having a unique feature of its own. CHANDIPUR BEACH With the sea water receding approximately 5 kms during low tide and advancing to the shore during high tide everyday, the Chandipur Beach at Odisha offers a truly unique and captivating sight.

Beaches of

ODISHA The seaside resort of Chandipur, 16 km east of Balasore, is one of Odisha ‘s finest beaches. The musical sway of the casuarinas trees and creepered white sand dunes add to its seductive beauty. Chandipur is one of the few beaches of the world where the sea recedes up to 5 km daily at low tide and chasing the waves in a jeep, when the sea retreats is unforgettable. When the tide is in, locals trawl for small fish along the coast. ACTIVITY: Watching the sea vanish right in front of your eyes and then observing its return is a very rare site. To add more to this hide and seek of water, the Casuarina trees and creeper sand dunes seem to be swaying on a melodious musical note. The beach is also in close proximity to certain other places of tourist interest namely Remuna, Panchalingeswar, Aradi and Chandaneswar. ACCESIBILITY: Easily accessible via train, the beach is merely 16 kms from the Balasore Railway Station on Howrah-Madras line of South Eastern Railways. It is reachable by auto rickshaw or taxi from Balasore, the accommodation at Chandipur is plentiful.

GOPALPUR ON SEA Serene environment, immense sailing opportunities and loads of fun and frolic awaits you at one of the most pristine beaches of Odisha namely Gopalpur on Sea. This humming seaport can be a real retreat to the sea worshippers. Despite the crumbling walls and pillars of the jetty, that are a witness to a past glory of commercial activity; the beach offers peaceful ambience conducive to introspection and conviviality. ACTIVITY: Ideal for both sailing and surfing, the beach is fairly isolated and remains undisturbed by the day trippers. The beach is a very quite and comparatively clean place to swim and sun bathe, but take precautions because of treacherous undercurrents. Watching Gopalpur’s endless empty shoreline getting swarmed with fishermen with their hand-nets full of catch is interesting and enjoyable to while away time in the stunning stillness. The beach with its golden sand of the blue sea has its own sleepy charm. Whether it is the rising Sun over the azure waters or the rhythmic lapping of waves shimmering in the bright moonlight, it is an enduring experience. The old lighthouse open to visitors each afternoon, but for a very short duration, offers good views. ACCESIBILITY: Located at a mere distance of 16 kms from Berhampur it is very

18 November 2015

easily accessible. It has plenty of accommodation options (advisable to book in advance during the high season, November-January; for the rest of the year, it is just idle). PURI BEACH Fine white sands, roar of the breakers rolling in from the Bay of Bengal and countless devotees flocking the place for a purification dip are the synonyms to the Puri Beach. The beach has continued to be a sacred venue for an endless number of pilgrims coming to pay homage to Lord Jagannath. ANNUAL BEACH FESTIVAL: With the annual Beach Festival taking place in November, the beach has now become a favorite haunt of both Indian and foreign beach lovers. Located at a mere distance of 35 kms from the Sun Temple and 65 kms from Bhubaneshwar, the beach is an ideal place for an introvert holiday maker for the scarcity of crowd here. ACTIVITY: It is interesting to visit a fishing village along the coast, with dozens of boats made of solid trunks ply off the coast during the day. Once landed, the rich catch of prawn, pamphlets and other fishes drawn into the nets is transferred to baskets. BEST TIME TO VISIT: The best time to pay a visit is around dawn, when the fishermen head out from the village and row the fleet towards the rising sun over the sea.

NEED TO KNOW

Uttarakhand Paradise for Adventure Activities

Uttarakhand is a well renowned destination for adventure sports lovers. Many national and international competitions of Skiing, Mountaineering, Water rafting, Rock climbing etc. are held annually. The many thrills the state has on offer range from treks to white water rafting to paragliding to biking are sufficient to entice the adventure-bound souls to explore and experience the newer highs. Compiled by WH Desk

SKIING It wouldn’t be wrong to call Auli the Ski capital of India. Located at 2,500 to 3,050 meters, in Chamoli District of Uttarakhand, the Auli Ski Resort is close to the famous religious shrine of Badrinath. The month of December heralds the beginning of the skiing season, which bears witness to the commencement of several ski festivals, along with the National Skiing Championships. The snowy excitement goes on all the way till March. Skiing has gained popularity as an alternative sport in the winter months. At an elevation of 2,915 - 3,049 metres with five km expanse of snow, Auli is offers perfect grounds for beginners and seasoned skiers alike. Coniferous and oak forests line the slopes. The peaks of Nanda Devi, Kamet, Mana Parvat and Dunagiri can be seen from the location. Its importance as a venue of adventure sports lies in its natural advantages enhanced

by state-of-the-art facilities. The adventurous skier can go for cross country runs covering 10 20 km. For the less adventurous, ski touring the glaciers is another enjoyable option. Besides Auli, other ski spots include Dayara Bugyal, Munsiyari and Mundali. Mundali is situated in Dehradun, 129 km from the main Dehradun town. Mundali’s enormous skiing rings offer incredible sights of the Himalayan slopes. ACCESEBILITY: Auli is quite remote when it comes to accessibility, with the nearest railway station being Haridwar, 299 km away and the closest airport, Jolly Grant at Dehradun, 273 km away. BEST TIME: December to March RAFTING Rafting is the most popular adventure sport in Uttarakhand. Swift-moving rivers offer a thrilling experience for white water rafters. These rivers flow through deep forests, rocky terrains, mountains and sometimes even along snowy slopes. Stretches along Alaknanda, Dhauliganga and Kali rivers have several challenging rapids. You can opt for a simple half-day tour or a four to five-day experience of rafting. Do make sure you have an experienced guide’s services. Choose between simple or expert levels - whether you

choose to negotiate fast and furious river currents or to gently float along the hillside. The Alaknanda and Bhagirathi, are the main tributaries of the Ganga confluence at Devprayag. Their waters are of Grade IV to V. Mori is where you go tossing in the turbulent Tons River. The power trip continues till Khunigad from where you can drive back to Mori for campfire and dinner. WHERE: You can raft from Barkot to Lakhamandal and Damta to Yamuna Bridge, near Mussoorie. Over the years, many rafting camps have come up in these locations. The two stretches are absolutely safe for beginners. Rafting courses are conducted by trained and qualified river guides of the Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam (GMVN). The courses includes, rafting, river-guide services, boarding and lodging. Rafting trips are also organised by privately-run adventure clubs. Most camps are usually located between Shivpuri and Kaudiyala, upstream from Rishikesh on the way to Devprayag during the season.

best traversed between October and December. Blessed with rare and diverse flora and fauna, Uttarakhand is an ideal place to develop adventure sports and eco-tourism. After paragliding, mountain biking is the second most popular adventure sport in the state. The sport attracts many national and international tourists and adventure sports enthusiasts, which in turn boosts tourism activities in the state. It is a belief that in a few years, Uttarakhand is bound to become the future hub for mountain biking in Asia. ROUTES DEFINED: In Garhwal, mountain biking can be enjoyed on the Rudraprayag – Augustmuni – Ukhimath – Chopta – Gopeshwar route, the Srinagar – Pauri – Khirsu – Pawbo – Satpuli – Lansdown – Kotdar route, and the Haridwar – Dhaulkhand – Mohand – Dehradun route. More routes are yet to be identified, explored and developed. The mountain biking routes at Kumaon are not to be left out. Tourists can enjoy the Nainital – Bhawali – Ramgarh – Mukteshwar route, the Almora – Kosi – Kathpuria – Sheetlakhet route, the Nainital – Bhawali – Sattal – Bhimtal – Naukuchiyatal route, and the Nainital – Kilbury – Kunjkharak route. BEST TIME: From October to December More Information Uttarakhand Tourism Development Board Pt.Deendayal Upadhaya Paryatan Bhawan Near ONGC Helipad, Garhi Cantt. Dehradun-248001(India) Contact No- 91- 135- 2559898, 2559987 E: infoutdb-uk@nic.in

BEST TIME: From 1st November and 30th June. MOUNTAIN BIKING The rugged terrain and steep slopes, though risky at times, provide great mountain biking experience in Uttarakhand. The cycle trails in this region are

November 2015 19

NEED TO KNOW

PACHMARHI Unwind Effortlessly Pachmarhi is the most verdant gem in the state of Madhya Pradesh. A lovely hill resort girdled by the Satpura ranges, the destination offers absolute tranquility. Bridle paths lead into placid forest groves of wild bamboo, jamun, dense sal forests and delicate bamboo thickets. Complementing the magnificence of nature are the works of man; Pachmarhi is also an archaeological treasure- house. Whereabouts brings more about the destination. Compiled by WH Desk

n Pachmarhi, Bagpipes skirled in a flower-bright valley while ancient dancers cavorted on a rock. The pipes and the dancers were separated by thousands of years typical of this little town in the Satpura Mountains. Contrasting cultures and ages exist in harmony as if time and trends mean little in this serene, wooded place. Roads meander gently groves of trees, open spaces and heritage cottages sitting contentedly in their old gardens. The town has a quiet gentility about it as if Victorian traditions and high collars still governed most people’s lives. Much of this ambience has been set,

and is still being maintained, by the strong presence of the Army whose Education Corps is headquartered here. The old cottages, meticulously maintained by the Military Engineering Serivces, have changed little since the days of Kipling. TOURIST ATTRACTONS SATPURA NATIONAL PARK: Satpura National Park is 524 sq km in area. It spreads through dense forest of evergreen sal, teak and bamboo. The high peaks of Dhoopgarh and Mahadeo, Bori’s legendary teak and bamboo forests, Pachmarhi’s fascinating natural beauty of deep valleys, high mountains, rivulets, waterfalls and Tawa’s vast reservoir combine to give this park unique beauty and a breathtaking variety of attractions. The park is home to the bison, tiger, Leopard, bear, four-horned deer, blue-bull and a rich variety of birds. THE CAVE SHELTERS: Some of the best cave shelters and groups of shelters around Pachmarhi are Dhuandhar, approached from the footpath to Apsara Vihar, the paintings mostly in white include a group of archers with the typical Gond

bun and hooped earrings. Bharat Neer (Dorothy Deep), has well executed animal paintings and when excavated in the 1930s yielded many pottery shards and microliths. Asthachal (Monte Rosa), there are four shelters with paintings, comparatively early linear drawings. Along the northern side of Jambu Dwip valley are some six shelters with many paintings

of animals and human figures, including a detailed battle scene. Harper’s Cave, so named because of one of its paintings - a man seated and playing a harp is close to the Jata Shankar Shrine. The Chieftain’s Cave derives its name from a battle scene showing two chieftains on horses. A terrace that runs the length of the South, South East and East faces of Kites Crag has some fine cave paintings, the majority of which are in white or outlined in red. PRIYADARSHINI (FORSYTH POINT): This vantage viewing point marks the place from where Pachmarhi was discovered by Captain Forsyth in 1857. The British developed Pachmarhi as a resort and their influence is embodied in its churches and colonial architecture. JAMUNA PRAPAT (BEE FALL): A spectacular fall in the stream which provides drinking water

20 November 2015

St. Francis Xavier Church

NEED TO KNOW Glen View *** T: (07578) 252533 / 252445 E: gview@mptourism.com Satpura Retreat Heritage Hotel T: (07578) 252097 E:satpura@mptourism.com NEED TO KNOW District: Hoshangabad State: Madhya Pradesh Best Season: October - March Languages: Hindi Weather: Summer 24 to 37°c, Winter 9 to 28°c Famous for/as: Hill Station Getting Here

to Pachmarhi. The bathing pools above the fall are very popular. The Handi Khoh-Pachmarhi’s most impressive ravine has a 300 feet high precipice and dramatically steep sides. RAJAT PRAPAT (BIG FALL): Those seeking adventure will find it in this ten-minute walk over rocks and boulders from Apsara Vihar to the top of Rajat Prapat, the ‘big fall’. IRENE POOL: This pool was discovered by Irene Bose, wife of Justice Vivian Bose, and named after her. The route upstream leads to a cave, through which the stream goes underground and then over a khud in a series of falls. MAHADEO: Regarded as holy for countless of generations, Mahadeo hill has a shrine with an idol of Lord Shiva and an impressive Shivlinga. On the East side of the hill is an excellent cave shelter with beautiful cave paintings.

CATHOLIC CHURCH: Built in 1892 by the British, the Catholic Church is a blend of the French and Irish architecture. Its Belgium stained-glass windows add rare attraction and beauty to the building. The church has a cemetery attached to it and graves date from 1859, World War I & II. CHRIST CHURCH: Built in 1875 by the British, this Church’s architecture is fascinating; its ‘sanctum- sanctorum’ has a hemispherical dome on top with its ribs ending with faces of angels. The stained glass panes adorning the walls and rear of the altar were imported from Europe. They present a gorgeous view as the sun rays pass

through them. The nave of the church does not contain even a single pillar for support. The baptismal font is a rare brass piece and the bell is as old as the church and its chimes can be heard from a long distance. BISON LODGE: Constructed in 1862, the Bison Lodge is the oldest house in Pachmarhi. It now houses a beautiful museum depicting the rich flora and fauna of Pachmarhi. ACCOMODATION Amaltas T: +91 07578 252098 E: amaltas@mptourism.com Champak Bungalow T: (07578) 252034,252587 E: champak@mptourism.com

Air: Bhopal airstrip is the bordering airdrome to Pachmarhi positioned at about 195 km distance away. The most important airlines connect various Indian cities with Bhopal, together with, Delhi, Mumbai and Gwalior. Flights are accessible to Sharjah and Dubai from the airport of Bhopal. Delhi is the foremost intercontinental airfield adjoining to Pachmarhi. Railways: Pipariya is the adjacent railhead situated at a distance of 47 km away from Pachmarhi. This rail station is on the foremost line to MumbaiHowrah and therefore most of the foremost trains halt at this station. Road: The city is also well linked with some of the major cities of India. Frequent bus services are obtainable from Pachmarhi to Bhopal (200.1 km), Pipariya (52.3 km) and Chhindwara (135.1 km) on a daily basis.

PANDAV CAVES: Five ancient dwellings excavated in the sandstone rock in a low hill. Pachmarhi derives its name from these caves which, as the legend goes, once provided sanctuary to the five Pandav brothers. These caves are now protected monuments.

November 2015 21

NTO

Abu Dhabi promotes Cruise Toruism for Indian traveller WH Desk

bu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority and Abu Dhabi Ports concluded a highly successful trade workshop in Delhi and Mumbai. The focus was emerging market of Cruise Tourism for the Indian outbound to Abu Dhabi. There was an excellent response from the Indian travel trade with over 300 travel agents from over 250 companies in Delhi and Mumbai collectively. Saeed A. Al Dhaheri, Cruise Sector & City Tour Development Section Manager; Abdulla Mohammed Al Mansouri, City Tour Executive, Tourism Ecosystem and Leisure Department; along with Bejan Dinshaw, Country Manager, India, Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority, were present at the occasion. Abu Dhabi key stakeholders were also present, including

WH Desk

T Farah Leisure (representing Ferrari World & Yas Waterworld), Rotana Group of Hotels, Dnata, Lama Tours and North Tours. There was a highly positive response from the visiting topline trade during the networking sessions. The event showcased attractive facets of Destination Abu Dhabi, the emerging cruise segment and connectivity onboard the Etihad-Jet Airways alliance.

There were presentations by Indian cruise service providers including MSC Cruises and Royal Caribbean Cruises with a focus on developing packages suitable for Indian outbound cruise market to Abu Dhabi. There was a raffle draw with exciting prizes for the lucky winners courtesy of Farah Leisure and Etihad Airways.

Israel concentrates on Indian Cuisine to woo travellers WH Desk

Speaking on the initiative, Hassan Madah, DirectorIndia, Israel Tourism said, “This is a positive step to further boost tourism and facilitate the needs of the Indian traveller in Israel.”

aving analyzed the importance of Indian food for the Indian traveller, the Israel Ministry of Tourism has invited India’s prestigious flight kitchen company, Taj Sats to conduct workshops at culinary institutions in Israel to familiarize chefs of the leading hotel chains with Indian food. Over the years Israel has been receiving more and more Indian tourists and the demand for Indian cuisine has always been growing. The tourism industry in Israel is ensuring that they cater to every need of the Indian traveller. “We feel that our leading chefs will be able to assist Israeli chefs to make a difference in

22 November 2015

TAT hosts maiden TBEX

Hassan Madah Director-India Israel Tourism

making the Indian tourist feel at home in Israel,” said Sagar Dighe, CEO, Taj Sats.

Indian restaurants already operate in various cities in Israel. However serving Indian food in hotels has several constraints on account of kosher requirements. Kosher are Jewish dietary laws where there is total separation of meat and dairy and certain foods are forbidden. Keeping in view of these restrictions, Israel will introduce Kosher Indian meals for tourists which will suit both vegetarian and non-vegetarian palettes.

he Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) successfully hosted Asia’s first Travel Blog Exchange 2015 (TBEX) in Bangkok from 15 to 17 October 2015, attracting more than 650 bloggers and online writers worldwide from 50 countries to exchange and get updated information in travel blogging while also enjoying various elements of Thainess experience. Yuthasak Supasorn, Governor of TAT said, “The Thainess elements experienced and shared to the world by travel bloggers attending the TBEX Asia 2015 will certainly help boost global traveller confidence in Thailand as a tourist destination and inspire travellers, especially the young generations, to want to visit the kingdom and experience Thainess for themselves.” The TBEX Asia 2015 presented a unique opportunity for Thailand to showcase the ‘2015 Discover Thainess’ tourism campaign and allow Thailandbased bloggers to network with their worldwide counterparts. Apart from gaining updated knowledge in travel blogging, writers and online bloggers also had the opportunities to join several post-tour programmes based on Discover Thainess theme, ranging from food and culture tours, Thai cooking classes; shopping guides, local market visits, Thai boxing lessons, Thai spa experiences, and bar hopping.

NTO

Australia re-launches the Aussie Specialist Programme The programme aims to equip Indian travels agents with distinguished skill sets and knowledge to effectively promote and sell Australia as a preferred holiday destination among Indian travel enthusiasts. WH Desk

he revamped version will consist of interactive training modules, itinerary suggestions, factsheets, latest industry news updates, destination FAQs and an interactive map. The site works across all tablets and mobile devices. In addition to the new website, a team of Aussie Specialist trainers is being recruited to help provide face-

to-face training in key markets for frontline travel sellers.

the evolving Indian traveller segments.

In addition, Tourism Australia will continue to maintain active relationships with qualified Aussie Specialists through the Aussie Specialist Programme, e-newsletters, trade events and familiarisation trips to Australia.

Basis an extensive review undertaken with travel agents, the online training program includes a new digital platform as well as training resources which will be shared by Tourism Australia and all eight of its state and territory tourism partners. The three phase interactive and engaging programme will highlight the unique and varied tourism offerings available in Australia, thereby making it a one-stopplatform for all travel partners.

Tourism Australia Country Manager, Nishant Kashikar said, “We understand that travel agents need continued flow of information and knowledge about the country’s diverse tourism offerings for them to effectively create incredible itineraries for Indian travellers. The Aussie Specialist Program thereby aims to make the travel agents an authority on Australia’s tourism attractions, thus facilitating them to effectively address the discerning demands of

About the Aussie Specialist Program (ASP) ÂÂThe Aussie Specialist Program (ASP) is Tourism Australia’s global training program, run in conjunction with Australia’s

State and Territory Tourism Organisations (STOs). ÂÂThe ASP is designed to provide international travel sellers with the knowledge and skills to promote and sell Australia as a destination. It offers agents an online platform and training resources to learn about Australia, helping them to promote and sell the destination more effectively. ÂÂCurrently there are 18,000 qualified Aussie Specialists worldwide. ÂÂBenefits of becoming an Aussie Specialist include access to bespoke training modules and sales resources, travel club offers, invitations to attend exclusive events and monthly e-newsletter updates.

Christmas Village in Philadelphia

Oman Tourism &AudioCompass set to launch mobile app

WH Desk

hristmas Village in Philadelphia is an outdoor holiday market event held in Love Park, right in Centre City of Philadelphia at the west side of City Hall. It is modeled after the traditional Christmas Markets in Germany. From Thanksgiving (11/21/15) through the last Sunday in December (12/27/15), vendors in more than 70 wooden booths will sell traditional European food, sweets and drinks including, gluhwine, a spiced mulled wine. They will also offer a great shopping experience with international holiday gifts, ornaments, jewelry, and highquality arts and crafts. ATTRACTIONS: Festive Kathe Wohlfahrt tent features popular Christmas ornaments from Germany, including glass ornaments,

24 November 2015

music boxes, nutcrackers and incense smokers; lifesize Advent calendar; daily live performances by local artists, weekly special event programming on weekends. WHERE: Love Park, Center City of Philadelphia WHEN: November 21, 2015December 27, 2015 For more information visit http://www.discoverphl.com/ listing/?lid=24033

WH Desk he Ministry of Tourism, Sultanate of Oman in association with AudioCompass announced the inclusion of Oman as a destination available to travellers on the AudioCompass app. In Oman, AudioCompass will cover more than 80 points of interest with informative audio content across major destinations including Muscat, Al Sharqiyah, Al Dakhliya, Al Batinah, Dhofar and Musandam. AudioCompass is a mobile app available on iOS and Android that serves as an audio guide to travellers all over the world. The application provides high quality, informative, detailed, curated, audio-based content for over 1200 tourist points of interest. Lubaina Sheerazi, India Representative of Ministry of Tourism, Sultanate of Oman explains, “AudioCompass helps the growing breed

Lubaina Sheerazi, India Representative Tourism Sultanate of Oman

of independent travellers from India gain deeper understanding of a culturally and historically rich and vibrant destination like Oman. People want high quality, personal and authentic experiences, and our partnership with AudioCompass helps facilitate this while improving knowledge and accessibility of Oman to travellers from India.”

NTO

Jeju Island concentrates on Indian travellers In an attempt to increase the traffic from India to Jeju Island a delegation interacted with Indian travel trade fraternity and media recently in New Delhi.

the year-on-year growth being experienced by KTO, Jeju too has set its sights on ambitious growth and is keen to scale this number up substantially by the end of this year. Globally, Jeju attracted 12 million visitors in 2014.

WH Desk urrently Jeju’s market mix comprises of largely FIT, while package tourists contribute to a little over 24 percent of travellers. Byungsun Lee, Director, Korea Tourism Organization, New Delhi said, “We are working with our airline partners to ensure that there are very competitive packages for Korea and for Jeju in the Indian market. We are witnessing a good response from Indian travellers.”

Jung Hwan Lee, Director General, Jeju Special Governing Province said, “Jeju has a host of factors that make it a great fit for the Indian market. Foremost is that it is visa-free. Tour operators and Indian travellers will be happy to note that any dietary concerns will be taken care of as the island does offer options for Indian food. Indian restaurants, Baghdad and Rajmahal offer a good choice of Indian food and can cater to those who require vegetarian food.”

Jeju has already received 1,165 people from India in 2014. Given

“Indian travellers visiting Jeju need not apply for a visa if they

are staying for up to 30 days. To avail the visa free facility, one can fly to Jeju Island via Beijing, Shanghai, Hongkong and Bangkok,” said Ji Hyeon Yang, Chief Manager, Jeju Tourism Organization. The Jeju Island tourism entities will be partnering with KTO’s India office in order to notch up awareness about its natural treasures, the fact that it is a world-renowned world heritage site and its adventure activities. “MICE operators will also appreciate the wide choice of adventurous team building activities possible in Jeju,” said Jin-Hun Cho, Marketing Director, Jeju Convention and Visitor’s Bureau while presenting the various incentives available to MICE planners who might be interested in planning MICE movements to Jeju.

Byungsun Lee Director Korea Tourism Organization Indian tourists spend US$1,250 on their stay in Jeju, which is slightly lower than the global average spend of US$1,605. The average length of stay in Jeju is about 3-days as part of a 6-day Korea itinerary.

Dubai Motor Festival 2015 gears Sartha Global Marketing to promote Nevada up to offer ‘Feel The Rush’ WH Desk

WH Desk

otor mania will hit the streets of Dubai as the organisers of the 3rd edition of Dubai Motor Festival (DMF) revealed a sneak peak of what motoring fans can expect in the 12-day high octane, oneof-a-kind festival. Being held from 10-21 November, DMF 2015 will further cement Dubai’s position as a hub for world class events and festivals. Held under the patronage of His Highness, Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, the citywide festival organised by Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), an agency of the Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM), promises families and tourists from around the world unique motoring experiences that

embody its tagline for this year, ‘Feel The Rush’. The organisers have put together an even more exciting line-up of motoring entertainment that includes several activations and appearances by the international motoring icon and professional rally driver, Ken Block. DMF 2015 will serve a world-class array of events and activities designed to delight and make motoring entertainment accessible to the entire family and create a memorable experience for motor enthusiasts of all age groups and nationalities.

he Nevada Division of Tourism has appointed Sartha Global Marketing as its representative office in India. Sartha will be implement ongoing public relations and travel trade programs, to educate potential travellers on the destination’s unique attributes, thereby attracting a larger number of visitors to Nevada from India. “We hope the state’s beautiful mountains and lakes, fascinating American history and culture, delicious cuisine and endless adventure will resonate with the Indian market. We sought a marketing agency in India that can spread the message of these treasures and attract visitors to Nevada, and we believe Sartha Global will be the perfect partner to do that,” said Claudia Vecchio, Director, Department of Tourism and Cultural Affairs.

Sunil Puri, Executive Director, Sartha Global Marketing added, “We are thrilled to represent the Nevada Division of Tourism in India. The destination symbolises history, diversity, culture and landscapes. Indians love to travel and explore destinations that capture unique landscapes and action packed urban settings. This should make Nevada a natural destination of choice for Indian travellers.” Nevada is a mountainous state in the Western region of the United States of America; a premier vacation and business travel destination; the state has rich and diverse holiday options on offer for potential Indian travellers. Also known as the Silver State, Nevada’s picturesque highways wind their way through some of the most spectacular scenery in the country, providing a perfect setting for scenic drives.

November 2015 25

AVIATION

Vistara appoints Sanjiv Kapoor as Chief Strategy & Commercial Officer WH Desk

aving worked with airlines in Asia, Europe, and the US in leadership and advisory positions Sanjeev Kapoor comes with over 19 years of experience. A graduate from Dartmouth College, USA and with a MBA from Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, he joined SpiceJet in 2013 as COO. His previous employers include Northwest Airlines, Bain and Company, Temasek Holdings (Singapore), and BCG (the Boston Consulting Group). Also, as part of his mandate as a Special Advisor to the Board, Sanjiv served as CEO of GMG Airlines.

Speaking on his appointment, Phee Teik Yeoh, CEO, Vistara said, “We are happy to welcome Sanjiv to Vistara as he will be joining us at a time when the airline embarks on a new phase of growth - with the new aviation policy around the corner and the successful completion of the first year of operation. I am confident that Sanjiv with his experience and market knowledge will propel Vistara’s growth further and capitalise on the opportunities that the Indian Aviation offers. Speaking on Vistara, Sanjeev Kapoor said, “The airline has the best possible parentage in the Tata group and Singapore Airlines and with such wonderful genes, the world is its

Ethiopian started flights to Yaounde

Sanjiv Kapoor Chief Strategy & Commercial Officer Vistara

oyster. Indeed, it is already been talked of as the best full-service airline in India, a testimony to the people and the leadership of Vistara. Given its laser focus on its people, product and customers, I look forward to working with Phee Teik and the entire Vistara team.”

Air India offers 4-scheme Bonanza to Executive Class travellers WH Desk

ir India has offered a super festival bonanza to its premium segment of Executive Class passengers flying the domestic sectors of Air India. From Nov 1, 2015 to Dec 31, 2015, passengers have on offer four schemes under the umbrella of the Executive Class Bonanza. The highlight of the Executive Class Bonanza is that it gives the passenger the advantage of enjoying the benefits of all the schemes against the same ticket. Women flyers will get a special discount of 25% on Basic Fare. The scheme is valid for travel from Nov 1, 2015 to Dec 31, 2015. The Executive Class Bonanza has the following four schemes under its umbrella: The Executive Vacation: Any passenger who travels on AI’s

26 November 2015

domestic Metro Network, except between Bengaluru and Chennai, in Executive Class FOUR TIMES between Nov 1, 2015 and Dec 31, 2015 will be entitled for one Executive Class One Way ticket (One flight Coupon) and if he travels SIX TIMES will get one Round Trip (2 flight coupons) ticket on our domestic metro network. The Lady Executive: A discount of 25% on Basic Fare for lady executives and all women flyers, travelling in Executive Class on production of business card or copy of ID proof. The Maharaja Experience: Any passenger who flies FOUR times in Economy Class on any of the Metro sectors, Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Hyderabad

and Bengaluru, except travel between Bengaluru and Chennai, within seven consecutive days, will be entitled for one “Executive Class Upgrade Voucher”. These vouchers may be used for upgrading at the time of check-in at AI counters, after having travelled four times, subject to the passenger holding a confirmed Economy Class paid ticket and seats being available in Executive Class. The Maharaja’s Bounty: All passengers who fly in executive class during this period can participate in weekly and a Mega Lucky Draw. All business cards / fill in forms collected during the scheme will be compiled and a computerized draw will be held.

he four weekly flights to Yaoundé is Ethiopian second destination in Cameroon and offers customers an added convenience and connectivity options via Addis Ababa, Ethiopian Hub, to its global network. Ethiopian has been serving the city of Douala since 1971 and has been offering uninterrupted service since 2003. Chief Executive Officer of Ethiopian Airlines Group, Tewolde Gebremariam, said, “With this new service, our flights will facilitate a greater people-to-people, trade, investment and tourism movement between our two sisterly African countries and the entire flourishing continent. We are also delighted to have the opportunity to provide our customers a new choice of fast and efficient connectivity via our Addis Ababa gateway to and from our global network together with a multiple award winning customer service and care.” Ethiopian is a truly indigenous Pan-African global carrier that operates the youngest and the most modern fleet in the continent with an average aircraft age of less than 5 years. Ethiopian currently serves 91 international destinations across 5 continents with over 232 daily departures.

EXTENSIVE COVERAGE

Madhya Pradesh prepares for tracking system to enhance the safety of tourist In an attempt to remove the roadblocks that hindering the growth of tourism in the state of Madhya Pradesh, under the dynamic leadership of state chief minister the department of tourism is considering at various possibilities for absolute solution; establishing a tracking system for traveller is one of them.

Rajesh Tiwari in Bhopal

n an attempt to enhance the security of tourist we are creating a tracking system that will follow the travellers visiting Madhya Pradesh right from the air port to across the state. A team of experts will look after this whole system, and can be contacted for any assistance whenever required,” said Shivraj Sigh Chouhan, Chief Minister, Madhya Pradesh. He was speaking at the outset of the second edition of ‘Madhya Pradesh Travel Mart. He reveals that the Government has initiated several projects to increase visitors to the state to see some of the country’s best kept world heritage sites, amazing landscapes. Since the state is all set to celebrate Simhastha 2016 from April 22nd to May 21st in Ujjain the Chief Minister invited the travel agents to promote this mega event in a big way. “We will see one of the biggest gatherings of pilgrims in the country and we would like to invite the travel agents to put this event on their itinerary to attract more tourist to the state,” added Chouhan. According to him, “The tourism department is training guides in different languages so as to cater to a diverse range of international tourists. However air connectivity is constrain that need to be addressed as soon as possible.”

28 November 2015

We are creating a tracking system that will follow the travellers visiting Madhya Pradesh right from the air port to across the state. A team of experts will look after this whole system, and can be contacted for any assistance whenever required. Speaking on the occasion, he announced an event to be celebrated at Indira Sagar river front in the month of February 2016. Elaborating on the same lines while speaking to the Whereabouts, Hari Ranjan Rao, IAS, Managing Director, Madhya Pradesh Tourism said, “We have created a lot of infrastructure at Indira Sagar and prepared to conduct a mega event to promote this water body. We will be creating a tent city for the tourist to stay and enjoy the occasion.” Surendra Patwa, Minister for Tourism, Govt. of Madhya Pradesh mentioned about the various proposals and schemes by the Madhya Pradesh Government to give a fillip to the industry in the state. Veera Rana, IAS, Secretary Tourism, gave details of the second edition of Madhya Pradesh Travel Mart.

Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh Shivraj Singh Chouhan is addressing the gathering at the second edition of MPTM

Elaborating on the number of buyer Vivek Mathur, General Manager- Marketing, MPSTDC said, “We have 200 registered buyers from over 20 countries gathered at the second edition of MPTM. This event has grown many folds as compare to previous year, and becoming most sought after travel exhibition in the country. We expect a remarkable gain from MPTM.” The event attracted buyers from Australia, South Africa, UK, USA, Canada, Germany, France, Italy, Bulgaria, UAE, Sri Lanka, Latvia, Bulgaria, Jordan, Egypt, Greece, Ireland, Philippines, Malaysia, Indonesia, Poland, Slovakia, Czech Republic, South Africa, etc. The event showcased over 100 different products of Madhya Pradesh from diverse profiles such as Pilgrimage, Heritage, Adventure, Corporate Hotels, Wildlife Resorts, Travel Agents and Tour operators, handicrafts, culture pursuits of Madhya Pradesh, etc. The mart was inaugurated by Shivraj Singh Chouhan, Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh in the presence of Surendra Patwa, Culture & Tourism Minister, Madhya Pradesh; Hari Ranjan Rao, IAS, Managing Director, MPSTDC; other representatives of MPSTDC and travel associations from India. Other dignitaries present at the inauguration included Subhash Goyal, President, Indian Association of Tour Operators,

Jyoti Mayal, Member Managing Committee , Chair Person Airline Council, Travel Agents Association Of India, Sarab Jit Singh, Vice President, Federation of Associations in Tourism and Hospitality (FAITH), Jyoti Kapur, President, Association of Domestic Tour Operators of India (ADTOI), Capt. Swadesh Kumar, Vice Chairman, Indian Convention Promotion Bureau (ICPB), Akshay Kumar, President, Adventure Tour Operators Association of India. The exclusive pavilion of Madhya Pradesh displayed the different facets of Madhya Pradesh such as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, festivals of Madhya Pradesh, Heritage Hotels, Buddhist Trails in Madhya Pradesh, Wildlife Resorts and National Parks, Medical Tourism, Destination Management Companies, Travel Agents and Tour Operators, Religious Tourism, Handicrafts, Cultural Vistas, etc The event enlisted the support of major travel – trade and hospitality associations in India such as ‘Association of Domestic Tour Operators Association of India (ADTOI), Adventure Tour Operators Association of India (ATOAI), Indian Association of Tour Operators (IATO), Travel Agents Association of India (TAAI), Travel Agents Federation of India (TAFI), Federation of Hotel & Restaurant Association of India (FHRAI), Adventure Tour Operators Association of India (ATOAI) etc.

EXTENSIVE COVERAGE

PHOTO GALLERY Glimpses of the second edition of the Madhya Pradesh Travel Mart organized at the Hotel Ashok Lake View in Bhopal from October 16th -19, 2015. (L to R) Surendra Patwa Minister for Tourism with Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan.

Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan (extreme right ) with delegates at the mart

Hari Ranjan Rao, IAS, Managing Director, MPSTDC

Vivek Mathur General Manager- Marketing MPSTDC

November 2015 29

EXCLUSIVE COVERAGE

SITE Global Conference Awakened The Sences of Incentive Players From World Across The SITE India Chaptre has successfully showcased the potential of Incentive products and the power of Indian hospitality to the delegates gathered at the conference from 36 countries from across the world. WH Desk

he Society for Incentive Travel Excellence has concluded its Global Conference 2015 recently in New Delhi. The host committee from India Chaptre rolled out the red carpet to welcome the 290 delegates from across the world. More than 200 foreign delegates from 36 countries came to attend the conference.

A Blend of Education, Motivation & Entertainment Since the conference was aimed to showcase Indian incentive travel potential to site members, the host committee had organised Deep Dive sessions for the first time. The session enlisted several topics such as ‘Flavours of India’, Mind Body and Soul’, ‘Myths, Beliefs and Reality’, ‘Fashion ‘Music and Dance’, which described India

to the fullest. The Conference had world-class educational sessions that motivated and educated the incentive player, both DMCs and Corporates. As per the India Chaptre Chairman Anup Nair this was a long cherished dream to bring the SITE Global Convention to India and the SITE India Chapter has indeed turned it into a reality. According to the Rajeev Kohli, President Elect Site, more than 90 percent of the delegates came to India for the first time.

SITE plans to introduce CIS programme in India The association is planning to introduce the Certified Incentive Specialist (CIS) programme in India. This was announced by the Rajeev Kohli, President Elect while addressing the gathering at the SITE AGM.

Certified Incentive Specialist (CIS) is an entry level certification programme from SITE. Professionals from around the globe will acquire in an efficient manner a broad comprehension of the incentive travel industry. All emerging professionals, faculty members and students aspiring to enter this specialised segment of the meetings and events industry may use CIS as a stepping stone to reach higher levels of professionalism. Individuals will learn the fundamentals of incentives, the origins of incentive programmes and incentive travel, the value chain, the value proposition of motivational programmes and non-cash awards, the composition of the market, the makings of a programme and a program budget, industry tools and platforms and other valuable information in a two day seminar/workshop. CIS is designed for SITE members and non-members alike in the knowledge that SITE serves as a source of expertise, knowledge and personal

Rajeev Kohli receving the President gavel from Rhonda Brewer

30 November 2015

Anup Nair Chairman SITE India Chaptre

connections that will catapult and sustain professional growth, and help build the value of extraordinary motivational experiences worldwide.

The Certified Incentive Specialist: ÂÂIs a group learning experience ÂÂSeeks to have as many professionals as possible involved. ÂÂIs a certification which acknowledges the experience of some and elevates the knowledge of all. ÂÂWill give certified professionals a greater understanding of the theory and practice of creative and effective Motivational Programs and Motivational Travel within the value chain. ÂÂIs a pre-requisite for the CITE certificate, ensuring a consistent baseline understanding and attained criteria.

AVIATION

AIR CHINA launches non stop Mumbai-Beijing WH Desk

he flight will operate four times in a week - Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday. Passengers will also have a return flight service from Beijing to Mumbai four times a week - Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday. The airline has introduced Airbus A330-300 in its service to Mumbai. With a total capacity of 305 seats, the flight has 30-Businiess Class Fully Flat Beds, 16-Premium Economy & 259-Economy seats. The capacity comprises 30 seats in Business class, 16 seats in Premium Economy and 259 seats in Economy Class. The outbound flight will departs from Mumbai at 02:30 IST, arrives in Beijing at 10:45 CST. The return flight will departs from Beijing at 19:40 CST and will arrives next day in Mumbai at 01:00 IST. After the launch of this route,

Air China will discontinue with it existing route PVG (Shanghai) – CTU (Chengdu) – BOM (Mumbai) - CTU (Chengdu) – PVG (Shanghai) effective winter schedule 2015. Elaborating on this initiative, Xia, GM, Air China, Mumbai said, “The initiative proposed by the Chinese government, has started and will start more routes serving the countries along the - One Belt, One Road. The non-stop flight secures increased connectivity and reduces transit time for our customers.” Air China is offering promotional fares to travel agents and customers on the first three flights. The offer rolled to travel agents is INR 15,000 including all taxes to Mumbai – Beijing Mumbai. With this offer, there are approximately 200 travel agents travelling to China.

Vijaywada Airport to get new terminal WH Desk

he new terminal building at Vijaywada Airort in Hyderabad will be capable of handling 500 passengers (250 Departure and 250 Arrival) during the peak hour. The terminal building will be constructed at a total area of 9520 sqm. (6683GF + 2835FF). The terminal will be equipped with state-of-the-art facilities

such as check-in counters, VIP lounge, car parking, etc. The proposed building is expected to be completed at an approximate cost of ` 150 crores. The new facility to a great extent will cater to the passenger facilities be it comfort, convenience, aesthetics, eco-friendliness and so on. The facility will immensely contribute towards tourism in the State in particular and give impetus to economic development of the region.

Etihad Airways to operate A380s to India from May 1, 2016 Etihad will become the fourth international carrier after Singapore Airlines and Lufthansa to operate the A380 on the India network. WH Desk

tihad Airways, the national carrier of Abu Dhabi, has said it will start deploying the super jumbo Airbus A380 on the Mumbai route from May 1 next year and operate on the official code of its domestic partner Jet Airways in which it owns 24 percent equity. Etihad will operate its A380 to India for the first time with direct scheduled flights between Abu Dhabi and Mumbai from May 1, 2016. Announcing the introduction the aircraft, James Hogan, President and CEO, Etihad Airways, said, “Bringing our flagship product to Mumbai is further proof of our confidence in the Indian market and our commitment to its economy.” For the airline, Mumbai will be the 5th destination to deploy

The A380 will have 4 types of cabin configuration - The Residence by Etihad offering 3 suits, 9 First Apartments, 70 Business Studios, and 415 economy seats-taking the total capacity to 496 seats. The A380 service will offer 50 per cent more seats than the Boeing B777-300 ER it replaces. The Residence by Etihad features a living room, separate en-suite shower room, double bedroom, and a dedicated Savoy-trained butler. It also features a large 32” LCD monitor in the living room and a separate 24” version in bedroom. Each suite, measuring 125 sq ft, is located on the forward upper deck and is available for single or double occupancy.

Turkish Airlines adds Miami to its network WH Desk

ith existing services to Buenos Aires, Sao Paulo, Toronto, Chicago, Houston, Los Angeles, New York, Washington, Boston, Montreal and San Francisco, Turkish Airlines has added Miami to its network making it the airline’s the 12th destination in the Americas. Miami flights will be operated seven times weekly. Round trip fares are available from Istanbul to Miami starting at

32 November 2015

super jumbo after Sydney, and the recently-announced Melbourne which is to start from next June. These A380 will operate daily (EY204 from Abu Dhabi, and EY203 from Mumbai) carrying the 9W code of Jet Airways.

USD 599 (including taxes and fees). Additionally, for the first 6 months of operation to the new destinations, there is a special offer for Miles&Smiles members, with a 25 percent reduction in the miles needed to redeem either award tickets or upgrades. “Our global network and award-winning service will make international travel easier and more convenient for both business and leisure travelers in this area.” said Ahmet Olmustur, CMO, Turkish Airlines.

HOSPITALITY NEW LAUNCH

PROMOTION

Royal Tulip Sea Pearl Beach Resort & Spa The new 493-room luxury beach resort will be managed by The Golden Tulip Hotels under the chain’s ‘Royal Tulip’ -5 star luxury brand.

WH Desk

he Golden Tulip Hotels has further expanded its bouquet of premium hotels with the opening of the ‘Royal Tulip Sea Pearl Beach Resort & Spa, Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh’. Located around one of the popular tourist destination of Cox’s Bazar in Bangladesh, the beautiful Inani Beach attracts tourists across the world the wonders of nature. The hotel is built in a romantic Spanish architectural style; this luxurious seaside resort combines the adventure of onsite water sports with the soothing atmosphere of a spa retreat. Whether it’s planning a family holiday, business conference, or lavish wedding, tourists will be well placed to enjoy the panoramic views and recreational facilities of the world’s longest stretch of

sand, Inani Beach with easy connectivity from Dhaka. Vimal Singh, Managing Director, Golden Tulip Hotels& Resorts, South Asia said, ‘The all-encompassing luxury facilities of ‘Royal Tulip Sea Pearl Beach Resort & Spa, Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh’, will provide a soothing retreat for travellers. This property aims to promote leisure and MICE travellers in Bangladesh as it looks after the professional and leisure needs of consumers.” The company is looking at aggressively expanding in the next few years across South Asia thereby increasing its market share and establishing

itself as a leading hospitality chain in the region. Golden Tulip Hotels& Resorts, South Asia now has 20 operational properties all over the country and three new properties opening under four and five star categories this year, which also includes Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh. Adhering true to its motto‘International standard, local flavours’, each property retains the charm and traditions of the local culture of the city and aesthetically blends it with high service standards backed with latest technology and modern amenities.

Banyan Tree unveils new brand-Dhawa Dhawa - this exciting new brand will cater to an emerging group of design-savvy travellers who seek distinctive experiences in stylish, unique destinations. WH Desk

anyan Tree Hotels & Resorts, has announced the launch of a new brand Dhawa. Dhawa builds upon the group’s reputation for redefining luxury hospitality through innovative thinking, design excellence and sustainable business practices. Dhawa is a casual and contemporary full-service hotel that fuses imaginative design, absolute comfort and seamless technology into a single stay experience. Dhawa, curates a

Carlson launches Catch the Season campaign

plethora of choices to achieve a truly customised stay. Dhawa will open first in Bo’ao, (DhawaBo’ao) an eastern coastal town on Hainan Island in China in March 2016. Wellknown as a popular destination for international forums and leisure travel, Bo’ao boasts tourist attractions including the Jade Belt Beach and Wan Quan River. With 346 keys, DhawaBo’ao will be the first hotel in Bo’ao offering a quality spa with vibrant design elements. With over half of its guest rooms facing the sea, the hotel will have extensive banquet and meeting facilities, a restaurant and pool. DhawaCayo Las Brujasin Cuba will open in July 2016. It

will be the first property in the region for Banyan Tree Hotels & Resorts. Famed for vast acres of coral reef, rich underwater fauna and botanical wildlife, Las Brujas is a popular attraction for marine enthusiasts. With 516 keys over three floors, the hotel will have three restaurants, a swimming pool, gym, Kids Club, water sports centre and unique meeting facilities. The two new hotels will be followed by openings in Pu’er, Leishan and Luo Yang,in China and Bangkok and Phuket in Thailand. Dhawa is part of a strategic global expansion for Banyan Tree Group which plans to double its portfolio in the next five years.

arlson Rezidor Hotel Group is offering all travellers 25 percent off on best available rates with the Catch the Season promotion, while also rewarding Club CarlsonSMloyalty program members with Double Elite Qualifying Nights for stays between November 2, 2015, and the end of this year. The Catch the Season booking period is from November 2, 2015, to January 31, 2016 and the promotion is applicable for participating Carlson Rezidor hotels across Asia Pacific. Stays have to be completed between November 2, 2015, and February 29, 2016. “This is a great opportunity for business travellers to put themselves on the fast track to Club Carlson Elite status,” said Sandy Russell, Vice President, Commercial Operations, Asia Pacific, Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group.“With Catch the Season, we have made it more rewarding than ever to choose Carlson Rezidor hotels. It’s our way of thanking our loyal guests for their continued support and making their hectic travel schedules work harder for them.” Catch the Season bookings can be made on www.clubcarlson. com/catch-the-season, as well as all the brand websites and also directly with the hotels. Participating hotels include Radisson Blu®, Radisson®, Park Plaza®, Park Inn® by Radisson and Country Inns & Suites ByCarlsonSM hotels across Asia Pacific. On top of the Catch the Season perks, Club Carlson members will also enjoy discounts on food and beverage purchases and earn points on food and beverages charged to the room.

November 2015 33

HOSPITALITY DISCOUNT & OFFERS

Hyatt Regency Gurgaon appoints Executive Chef WH Desk

yatt Regency Gurgaon announced the appointment of Chef Liam Crotty as Executive Chef of the hotel. Passionate about cooking, the dynamic chef is a connoisseur of culinary arts from across the globe. Prior to joining Hyatt Regency Gurgaon Liam was a part of the preopening team at Hyatt Regency Dubai Creek Heights. As Executive Chef of the largest convention hotel in Gurgaon and over 18 years of professional experience Chef Liamis in charge of overseeing all the culinary aspects of the kitchens,

Spend a sparkling New Year's Eve on 3000m at Berghaus Diavolezza

menus, training modules and most importantly securing the standards of excellence expected by both domestic and international patrons. Liam joined the Hyatt family in 2008 at the award winning Manhattan Grill Restaurant and Market Café in Grand Hyatt Dubai. In 2009, he was promoted as the Chef De Cuisine at The Kitchen Restaurant of Hyatt Regency Dubai.This was followed in May 2012 by a move to Park Hyatt Maldives as the Executive Chef of the only resort property of the Park Hyatt brand. Chef Liam holds a graduate degree from Cork Institute of Technology (C.I.T) in

S Liam Crotty Executive Chef Hyatt Regency Gurgaon

Professional Cookery and Secondary education from St. Colman’s Community College, Middleton, co.Cork, Ireland. Chef Liam loves travelling, golf and outdoor activities.

One&Only Ocean Club unveils new beachfront pool WH Desk

The new beachfront pool will be perched overlooking the white sand beach and turquoise sea beyond. The infinity-edge pool will provide never-ending views, indulgent days and relaxing nights for guests. A new bar and grill will let guests enjoy a relaxing lunch without ever leaving the comfort of their

34 November 2015

Legend has it that hunters once casually followed a redheaded mountain nymph only to disappear for ever – and it’s from this little devil that the mountain supposedly made itself a name! Besides pure mountain air and a breathtaking glacier backdrop, the Berghaus Diavolezza treats guests to a fine selection of first-class regional and international specialties.

he iconic One&Only Ocean Club resort has unveiled additional planned enhancements to raise the bar on ultra-luxury in the Bahamas. In addition to the completely renovated and expanded guest rooms and suites in the Hartford Wing, the resort will be introducing the ultimate beachfront experience with a new pool, bar and grill. Once completed, the resort will retain what guests have always loved – a sense of exclusive privacy in a relaxed setting with a beachfront unsurpassed in the Bahamas.

ee in the New Year 2016 with your nearest and dearest here at 3,000 metres above sea level. Let the Berghaus team spoil you to bits with their excellent New Year’s Eve gala dinner, and spend an unforgettable evening. On this freezing New Year’s Eve winter night against a backdrop of magnificent mountain scenery you’ll have a devil of a good time as you see in the New Year amid convivial company.

daybed. As the sun dips beyond the horizon, inviting fireplaces will alight to allow guests to linger into the evening for sundowners. In addition to the new pool, the entire Hartford Wing of One&Only Ocean Club is being renovated, with guest rooms increasing in size by 110 square feet offering an expansive terrace or balcony with views of the ocean and lush resort

gardens. In addition, each room will have a complete makeover including new furnishings, fabrics and color schemes that amplify the distinctive palette of The Bahamas, as well as completely transformed bathrooms. The Hartford Courtyard will be completely redesigned to allow for a luxurious relaxation experience for guests.

The Berghaus Diavolezza can easily be reached from the bottom station of the Diavolezza aerial cable car situated along the Via Da Bernina. Moreover, legend has it that long, long ago, a beautiful, red-haired she-devil used to live on the Diavolezza. Enjoy a fabulous new year with us for CHF 155 that includes: ÂÂA special cable car ride up to the Berghaus Diavolezza at 6:30 p.m. will be arranged for guests not staying the night at the Berghaus. The downhill ride will be at 2 a.m. ÂÂA gala dinner , New Year’s Eve celebrations in the company of a live DJ

TECHNOLOGY

Rich Content & Branding: More than 120 airlines now signed up to industry leading product Travelport is celebrating the first anniversary of Travelport Rich Content and Branding, the industry leading solution that allows airlines to more effectively market and retail their offering to travel agencies around the world. WH Desk

n the past year, over 120 network airlines and low cost carriers have signed up to Rich Content and Branding including Lufthansa, SWISS, easyJet, Ryanair, Delta, United, Singapore Airlines, Air Canada, Air China and Kenya Airways. 90 airlines are now live in the system, ready for travel agencies to search, sell and book, with more airlines making

their additional branded content available each week. Travelport Rich Content and Branding enables airlines to fully display all of their fares, ancillaries and brand proposition, exactly as they would on their own websites, giving them the greatest control possible over how their products appear on travel agents’ screens. It includes rich product descriptions and graphics, optional or ancillary products for sale, including fares families.

customising and segmenting their offers and products to agents in order to achieve greater returns and the company constantly looking at new ways to enhance the merchandising opportunities available.

Since its launch last year, Travelport has continued to enhance Rich Content and Branding by adding powerful, new search functionality and increased opportunities for upselling by offering the ‘next product/price point up’, with a full comparison of associated attributes and ancillaries.

Derek Sharp, Travelport’s Senior Vice President and Managing Director, Air Commerce, added, “With Rich Content and Branding, our airline customers are able to sell their products their way, in the intermediary channel, adding real value to their businesses. We have now achieved critical mass with the number of airlines who share our vision to offer travel agents and travellers visually-rich and interactive content and more and more airlines are signing up each week.”

In addition, airlines can now better target their messages by

Anil Parashar, President & CEO, InterGlobe Technology

Anil Parashar President & CEO InterGlobe Technology

Quotient commented on this milestone, “We have achieved this landmark of Travelport Rich Content and Branding which completed its first anniversary. Designed to empower selling and build an engaging brand experience for airlines, this solution has been truly appreciated by the airlines world over, due to its interactive and visually-rich content which is proving to be a very effective sales tool for travel agents.”

Amadeus launches cutting-edge travel intelligence solution for airlines Amadeus Schedule Recovery- solution is divided into three modules; Airport Resource Tracker, Schedule Manager and Schedule Optimiser. WH Desk

madeus announced the launch of a cuttingedge travel intelligence solution for airlines, Amadeus Schedule Recovery, which minimises disruptions to operations caused by external events such as bad weather or air traffic control congestion.

Amadeus Schedule Recovery serves as a recommendation engine, using data analytics to help quickly and efficiently identify the most critical issues, and act upon them. This solution helps airlines make rapid choices such as whether to delay or cancel flights, swap aircraft, or reassign landing slots. Schedule Recovery reduces manual effort and improves the quality of decisions while closely controlling the strain on the airline operating costs and minimising the overall impact on passengers. Schedule Recovery supports any airline where the size and organisational complexity of

its operations, and the need to act quickly, makes it difficult for manual decision-making to take in the full operational and customer picture. It does not require an airline to use any other Amadeus solution, and can be integrated with any passenger service system. Airport Resource Tracker, the first module, which is being launched at the moment, provides unique capabilities to airlines at a time when growing air traffic is placing ever-increasing demands on airports and airspace capacity. The module enables airlines to interact more efficiently with air traffic control so that the best possible use can be made

of available airport arrival and departure slots. Check-in facilities, airport gates and luggage belts are other examples of airport capacity constraints, where poor operations control decisions could result in disruption to the passenger experience. Airport Resource Tracker allows these to be factored into airline decision-making to ensure a smooth journey. The solution, which uses realtime business intelligence and very rich visualisation, can be readily adapted to the unique priorities of each airline as well as to their changing business needs.

November 2015 35

DISCOUNT AND OFFERS

Terminal Two

Mumbai Airport WH Desk

ike all leading airports around the world, T2 has made the most of available space to provide a retail therapy for passengers, most of who belong to the high-spending class. Travellers, who often scour the local markets and malls to buy gifts and goods and memorabilia on their travels, can find most such items right at the airport. International travellers flying in or out of Mumbai can indulge in rejuvenating experiences and shopping sprees before setting foot on foreign shores. The swanky T2 at Mumbai Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport boasts of the GVK Lounge, The Retail Zone and the Pranaam GVK Guest Services, which offer unprecedented convenience and relaxation for passengers. Retail Experience The retail zone at T2 terminal spans over 21,000 sq. metres and hosts more than 250 global

brands. It is designed in a unique way, with no boundary walls between the stores, so that it appears as a seamless walkway. The designs and ambience, coupled with a false ceiling, give it a feel of an aesthetic, large retail shop. The Duty Free store is the biggest one at the airport, offering a variety of ready-to-gift items, essentials as well as beauty products. Versace, Kimaya, Carlton, Pink, Boss, Attitude, Pavers, Pal Zileri, Paul & Shark, Sound & Vision and Zodiac, to name a few, are among the brands that have outlets here. GVK Lounge The GVK Lounge is the first ever common luxury lounge in the country, unlike in most other global airports, which usually have separate First Class / Business Class lounges for different airlines. The interiors of the GVK Lounge reflect Indian ethos, providing a sense of peace and relaxation. Segregated into three categories – First Class, Premium Class and Business Class, the lounge

offers several facilities in such as Concierge Services, a Smoking Zone, Food & Beverages, a Bar, a Luxury Spa, a Shower Area, a Relaxation Area, a Library and a Business Centre. Pranaam Pranaam GVK Guest Services or ‘Pranaam’ were introduced in February 12, 2014 as an innovative service model the first of its kind in India - expected to cater to many segments of the hospitality industry including hotels, travel and tour operators, corporate entities, embassies, etc. with the view of ensuring a memorable experience for their guests.

Shivaji International Airport with the intent of enhancing the airport experience for passengers who appreciate exclusivity during travel. True to the spirit of warmth and care that the traditional ‘Pranaam’ gesture symbolises in Indian culture, Pranaam GVK Guest Services provide guests with a seamless, friendly, stress-free experience while they are at the airport. The service can be availed by anyone, regardless of the airline or the class of travel. Pranaam also offers services specifically meant to provide professional assistance to corporate clients, care for family and elderly guests and secure transit for young guests.

GVK MIAL introduced the service at the Chhatrapati

Azure presents high-end collections

ENRG offers plethora of innovative products for Corporate Gifting

WH Desk

ZURE , the Signature Porcelain Tableware with zero Bone Ash -22 carat Gold & Platinum Decors offers an ideal gifting option for family and friends. The company has come out with variety of high-end crockery for the festive season. Ornament for your table, this beautiful dinner set from AZURE, features pretty Designs with Gold & Platinum around the rim. The dinner set consists of six full plates, six quarter plates, six vegetable bowls, six soup bowls, six soup spoons,

36 November 2015

NRG, a consumer lifestyle electronics offers a wide range of innovative products for corporate gifting, this festive season at an affordable price range of Rs 500 to Rs 5000 in a market which is highly unorganised.

one rice plate, two salad bowl, one serving bowl with lid. The dishwasher safe dinner set will add personality to your dining table.

The flagship product in B2B space which is quite relevant for corporate gifting is ENRG Videochure-high end digital brochure designed to attract customer attention and do effective and impactful marketing & communications, promotional campaigns, unique way to invite, be it a corporate event, conferences or personal

occasions like weddings or birthdays. This is a new concept in India and one can customize these displays as brochures, invites, photo frame, and many more items as suitable to their business and personal needs. The best part is that the finished products with our high quality printing can be used an out-ofthe-box and premium marketing and communications solutions,” said Nikul Raj Gupta, CEO, ENRG.

FACT & FIGURES

Foreign Tourist Arrivals (FTAs) register a growth of 6.1 percent in September 2015 WH Desk

inistry of Tourism compiles monthly estimates of Foreign Tourist Arrivals (FTAs) on the basis of Nationality-wise, Port-wise data received from Bureau of Immigration (BOI) and Foreign Exchange Earnings (FEEs) from tourism on the basis of data available from Reserve Bank of India. Following are the important highlights regarding FTAs and FEEs from tourism during the month of September2015.

Foreign Tourist Arrivals (FTAs) ÂÂFTAs during the Month of September2015 were 5.40 lakh as compared to FTAs of 5.09 lakh during the month of September2014 and 4.54 lakh in September2013. There has been a growth of 6.1 percent in September2015 over September2014. ÂÂFTAs during the period January- September 2015 were 56.08 lakh showing a growth of 4.6 percent over January- September 2014 ÂÂThe percentage share of Foreign Tourist Arrivals (FTAs) in India during September 2015 among the top 15 source countries was highest from Bangladesh (18.81 percent), followed by USA (10.99 percent), UK (7.96 percent), Malaysia (4.72 percent), Sri Lanka (4.69 percent), Australia (3.39 percent), China (3.37 percent), Japan (3.20 percent), Germany (2.89 percent), Canada (2.51 percent), Nepal (2.44 percent), France (2.39 percent),Singapore (2.13 percent), Pakistan (1.61 percent) and Afghanistan (1.27 percent). These top 15 countries account for 72.37 percent of total FTAs during September 2015. ÂÂThe Percentage share of Foreign Tourist Arrivals (FTAs) in India during September2015 among the top 15 ports was highest at Delhi Airport (30.08 percent) followed by Mumbai Airport (17.21 percent), Haridaspur Land check post (10.57 percent), Chennai Airport (8.91 percent), Bengaluru Airport (6.57 percent), Kolkata Airport (4.02 percent), Cochin Airport (3.23 percent), Hyderabad Airport (3.03 percent),Gede Rail (2.02 percent), Tiruchirapalli (1.94 percent), Trivendrum Airport (1.55 percent), Ahmedabad Airport (1.35 percent),Ghojadanga Land check post (1.26 percent), AttariWagha Land check post (1.05 percent) and Amritsar Airport (0.75 percent). These top 15 ports account for 93.54 percent of total FTAs during September 2015.

Foreign Exchange Earnings (FEEs) from Tourism in India (in rupee terms) ÂÂFEEs during the month of September 2015 were Rs9,512 crore as compared to Rs9,057crore in September 2014. ÂÂThe growth rate in FEEs in rupee terms during September 2015 over September 2014 was growth of 5.0 percent. ÂÂFEEs from tourism in rupee terms in January- September 2015 were Rs91,737 crore showing a growth of 3.2 percent over the same period during2014 . ÂÂFEEs in US$ terms during the month of September 2015 were US$ 1.436 billion ÂÂFEEs from tourism in US$ terms during January- September 2015 were US$ 14.453 billion.

International tourist arrivals up 4 percent driven by strong results in Europe WH Desk

nternational tourist arrivals grew by 4.3 percent in the first eight months of 2015 according to the latest UNWTO World Tourism Barometer, fuelled by strong results in Europe and consolidating the trend of recent years. International tourists (overnight visitors) travelling the world between January and August 2015 reached 810 million, 33 million more than in the same period of 2014. Europe recorded a robust 5 percent increase in international tourist arrivals, the highest across all regions and a notable result for a rather mature region. Asia and the Pacific, the Americas and the Middle East all enjoyed 4 percent growth, while limited data available for Africa points to an estimated 5 percent decrease in the number of international tourists. Regional Results A very busy summer season contributed to the remarkable results of Europe where international arrivals increased by 5 percent between January and August 2015. The euro area continues to benefit from a weaker currency and a sustained economic recovery. Central and Eastern Europe (+7 percent) rebounded from last year’s decline. Northern Europe (+6 percent), Southern Mediterranean Europe (+5 percent) and Western Europe (+4 percent) all recorded sound results for subregions with many mature destinations. The 28 countries of the European Union (EU-28) boasted 6 percent more arrivals this period, exceeding the regional average. Asia and the Pacific recorded a 4 percent increase in international arrivals through August. Oceania (+7 percent) led growth, followed by South-East Asia (+6 percent), with Thailand showing a strong rebound after weaker results last year. Arrivals grew by 4 percent in South Asia and by 3 percent in North-East Asia, where Japan continues to show extraordinary growth. International arrivals in the Americas grew by 4 percent between January and August 2015, consolidating last year’s strong results. The appreciation of the US dollar has stimulated outbound travel from the United States. The Caribbean and Central America (both +7 percent) saw the highest growth in the region fuelled largely by the US and European markets. Results in South America (+4 percent) were in line with the regional average, while in North America (+3 percent) growth was weighed down by weaker arrivals in the United States.

Currency fluctuations impact tourism demand Although demand has been positive overall, tourism flows have been determined to some extent by the comparatively strong currency fluctuations. Many destinations are benefitting from more favourable exchange rates, while others have become more expensive, but seen their purchasing power abroad increase. Among the world’s top source markets, China continues to report double-digit growth in outbound travel, benefiting Japan, Thailand, the United States and various European destinations. Among the other emerging markets, India, South Africa and Egypt reported double-digit growth in tourism expenditure. Meanwhile expenditure from the Russian Federation and Brazil was significantly down, reflecting the economic constrains in both markets and the depreciation of the Ruble and the Real against virtually all other currencies.

November 2015 37

APPOINTMENT

Arun Arora General Manager Sea Pearl Cox’s Bazar

Harpreet Vohra General Manager Park Plaza Gurgaon

Harpreet Vohra has been appointed as the General Manager at Park Plaza Gurgaon. Prior to this, Harpreet was working at Radisson Blu Agra. His work experience includes his stints at Hyatt International, Taj Hotels, Golkonda Resorts and Angsana Spa, The Lalit New Delhi and Hyatt Regency in Mumbai. With an enriching experience of 17 years in the hospitality industry, he is confident of taking the success of Park Plaza Gurgaon to newer heights. He has a bachelor’s degree in commerce from Bhopal University along with Hotel Management.

Arun Arora has been appointed as the General Manager of Royal Tulip Sea Pearl Cox’s Bazar, Inani, Bangladesh. In his new role, Arun will be responsible for the operational set up and steering of the overall management of the hotel. Arun will also play a vital role in employee training and development, while driving performance across various dimensions including financial success, brand value, guest satisfaction and engagement as well as quality in service. Prior to joining the hotel, he has been GM with various hotels over 10 years for Radisson Blu Hotels, Park Inn and The Corinthians Resort & Club.

Your B2B Partner

38 November 2015

Rishi Neoge General Manager Howard Johnson Bengaluru Hebbal

Rishi Neoge has been appointed as General Manager at Howard Johnson Bengaluru Hebbal. With over 19 years of experience he has worked at several positions in Food and Beverage within the leading luxury and business hotels across India like ITC, The Imperial, IHCL and IHG etc. Neoge looks forward to the opportunities and challenges that the new assignment brings his way. In his new assignment he will look after the overall operation of the property.

304, Gagandeep Building, 12 Rajendra Place, New Delhi - 110 008 Tel.: +91 99998 10390 Email: info@brighttravelz.com

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WTM Special Edition

Volume II Issue II November 2015

Annual Subscription ` 660

In Conversation

Nishant Kashikar Country Head India & Gulf Tourism Australia

Association

Rajeev Kohli

achieves the milestone, becomes the first ever Asian President for SITE

State

Karnataka seeks relaxation in CRZ to develop beach tourism

Sunil Kumar R

Let us go beyond self - for we are only as big as our association

Uttarakhand

concentrates on pilgrimage and rural tourism

Need to Know

Pachmarhi Unwind Effortless

NEWS IN BRIEF

AVIATION

NTO

HOSPITALITY

DISCOUNT & OFFERS